Study highlights complex ocean conditions facing world’s most powerful tidal turbine

Scientists combined innovative drone technology and boat-based surveys to pave the way for the efficient and sustainable development of tidal energy. The number of tidal power and other offshore renewable energy installations is set to grow significantly around the UK coastline over the coming decades. However, launching state-of-the-art devices into often turbulent ocean flows has … Read more

Plymouth scientists play key role in global Plankton Manifesto

David Johns, Head of the Continuous Plankton Recorder (CPR) Survey operated by the Marine Biological Association (MBA) has played an integral role in driving the development of the first ever global Plankton Manifesto. The landmark document, unveiled during the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, emphasises the critical role of … Read more

MBA Staff Spotlight: David Johns

Our Staff Spotlight highlights and celebrates the outstanding work of our team members. With a wide range of roles at the Marine Biological Association, we hope these small glimpses into the diverse expertise and individual passions will deepen the connection between the MBA and the public. David Johns is the Director of Research Facilities at … Read more

Urgent need to understand how reduced oxygen levels can harm ocean predators

Oxygen is essential to the survival of the majority of marine organisms. Since the mid-20th century, scientists have noticed a reduction in oxygen levels in the ocean, and these declines are forecast to continue in the coming decades. With the levels of dissolved oxygen in open and coastal waters decreasing, there is currently little understanding … Read more

140 Years: How technology is advancing marine science

From underwater videography to aerial drones, technological advancements in ocean observation have significantly enhanced our understanding of marine ecosystems and the impact of human activities on the marine environment. Scientists from the Marine Biological Association (MBA) are now able to collect data in real-time and monitor marine life in ways that were previously unimaginable. Cutting-edge … Read more

Measuring deoxygenation effects on marine predators

Most living organisms need oxygen to survive, grow and reproduce, and the same is true for ocean predators such as sharks. Global climate-driven ocean warming has decreased the levels of oxygen in the ocean, leading to expansions of ‘dead’ or hypoxic zones. These zones can affect the movements, behaviour, and distributions of marine animals, but … Read more

Meet our new Senior Research Fellow: Dr Bryce Stewart

Three Research Fellows have been appointed to lead groundbreaking research at the Marine Biological Association (MBA). The new Fellows bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the MBA and will be instrumental in leading research initiatives to address the most pressing challenges facing our ocean. Dr Bryce Stewart Searching for solutions that balance the … Read more

New programme is launched in the fight against climate change

Four leading UK marine research institutions are joining forces to explore the ocean’s role in mitigating climate change. The Marine Biological Association (MBA), National Oceanography Centre (NOC), Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML) and the Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS) are collaborating in the marine science research programme. The Atlantic Climate and Environment Strategic Science (AtlantiS) … Read more

Meet our new Research Fellow: Dr Lilian Lieber

Three Research Fellows have been appointed to lead ground-breaking research at the Marine Biological Association (MBA). The new Fellows bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the MBA and will be instrumental in leading research initiatives to address the most pressing challenges facing our ocean. Dr Lilian Lieber Biophysics of a Changing Ocean: From … Read more

NOAA Fisheries announces international collaboration with UK organisations to study movement ecology of blue sharks in the eastern North Atlantic

The NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) Fisheries Apex Predators Program is kicking off a NOAA-funded International Science initiative this month, partnering with seven UK-based organisations and the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) to study potential climate-driven shifts in migratory corridors and stock identification of blue sharks in the eastern Atlantic … Read more