Well prepared for future challenges

The members of the international committee spent two days of presentations, lectures, poster sessions and discussions in Kiel to monitor progress on the GEOMAR 2030 strategy, in particular the work of the research divisions “Marine Biogeochemistry” and “Marine Ecology”. The research divisions “Ocean Circulation and Climate Dynamics” and Dynamics of the Ocean Floor” had been visited half a year ago.

The Scientific Advisory Board appreciated the research of GEOMAR that covers fundamental to solution-oriented research such as the work on marine carbon sinks, clearance of munition, contributions to the protection of the Baltic sea, as well as deep-sea mining. GEOMAR therefore is well on track with its vision to preserving the function of the ocean and safeguarding it for future generations in times of multiple societal crisis. The recommendations of the Scientific Advisory Board guide the further development of GEOMAR research, including towards the centre evaluation in 2025 and the strategic evaluation in 2026 towards the next phase of the programme-oriented funding of the Helmholtz Association. Detailed recommendations are expected in the coming weeks.

“We are very grateful for the positive feedback and advice of our Scientific Advisory Board. It is a much appreciated input for our further development and strategic planning,“ says GEOMAR Director Professor Dr. Katja Matthes. “The results from this review motivate us to stay engaged in our various research fields that aim to explore the global ocean from the seafloor to the atmosphere and better understand the ocean system, and to continue to contribute our expertise to enable the development of sustainable solutions for pressing societal issues.”