Marine

MASTS Annual Science Meeting

August 21, 2013 by Marine Scotland Communications No Comments | Category Collaborations

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The publication of Scotland’s Draft Marine Plan in July 2013 brings into sharp focus the importance of Scotland’s seas to its economy, culture and environment.

From 27^th – 29^th August, the Marine Alliance for Science and Technology for Scotland (MASTS) will be staging its Annual Science Meeting at the Edinburgh Conference Centre. This gathering of Scotland’s marine scientists brings together an eclectic mix of things marine ranging from deep sea biology, to improving aquaculture, fisheries, marine renewables and climate change. Unlike many science conferences, the MASTS meeting brings together scientists with policy makers, regulators and industry representatives. Speakers explain their research through short 12 minute presentations and in terms which can be understood by non-specialists.

Professor David Paterson, the MASTS Executive Director describes the meeting as a marine science buffet – where delegates can get a taste of a wide selection of marine science, which as well as being informative, offers fertile ground for developing novel ideas and collaborations.

The final day of the MASTS meeting is devoted to a series of open workshops. This year’s fare will include workshops addressing the challenges of decommissioning of oil and gas rigs, food security, marine litter, Marine Protected Areas and the use of remotely piloted aircraft for marine research. Scotland’s seas are home to some iconic marine predators including seals, whales, dolphins and sharks. As well as being charismatic animals, they can often be sensitive sentinels of environmental change. The trick is to understand their biology and behaviour well enough to interpret the potential impacts of such change. Two workshops devoted to these subjects are also included on the last day of the meeting.

The MASTS Programme Co-ordinator, Dr Emma Defew who has led the organisation of the meeting was keen to point out that that the whole event is open to anyone with an interest in marine science or the issues being addressed. The event is a great opportunity to gain a better understanding of marine science and to talk to those involved. To register for the science meeting or specific workshops go to: http://www.masts.ac.uk/annual-science-meeting/.

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