Retrospective
ICYMARE 2024 brought us back to Bremen for the first time since the very first ICYMARE edition in 2019. From September 16th to 20th, we teamed up with the Department of Marine Botany at the University of Bremen for the main conference, while the Übersee Museum hosted our fantastic icebreaker. Read on for our annual retrospective covering the highlights of ICYMARE 2024 BREMEN and see what might be waiting for you next year in Bremerhaven.
ICYMARE 2024 BREMEN welcomed a total of 171 participants from 32 countries and featured 83 scientific talks and 35 posters. The icebreaker event at the Übersee Museum kicked things off in style with over 100 people mingling in the colorful Africa section of the museum, playing Human Bingo and making their first conference friends. This successful start was followed by four days of scientific discussions, presentations and workshops. Plus a number of great social events because at ICYMARE, we value making new connections just as much as talking about science and research. To wrap it all up, we had an outstanding post-conference party on the riverside of Werder Island – a perfect end to a week full of networking and collaboration.
The ICYMARE team thanks all partners, sponsors and participants for making ICYMARE 2024 BREMEN the outstanding success that it was!
Keynotes
Each conference day at ICYMARE 2024 BREMEN started with a thought-provoking keynote session followed by a discussion inviting the participants to reflect on a variety of topics and discuss their different experiences and viewpoints.
On Tuesday, Nuri Max Steinmann from Blue Action Fund and the UN Ocean Decade ECOP Node Germany led a powerful session on “Inclusive Action for the Ocean We Want”. His talk explored different dimensions of inclusivity, emphasizing the need to overcome economic and political barriers that limit underrepresented voices in ocean conservation. Reflecting on his own research in the past and his current role and position, Nuri encouraged broader and honest collaboration. He highlighted the relevance of co-developing projects underpinned with coherent contractual commitments to truly enable vulnerable communities to take their role as key agents in achieving sustainable ocean practices.
Wednesday brought Gauvain Wiemer from the Deutsche Allianz Meeresforschung to the stage, discussing “Effective Data Management”. He stressed the importance of robust data handling in marine science, from collection to ensuring integrity and accessibility according to the FAIR principles. In his interactive keynote, Gauvain managed to shift the participants’ perspectives from data management being a “painful” act to being a “powerful” tool. Gauvain effortlessly showcased how proper data management enhances transparency and collaboration, fuelling more reliable and impactful ocean research.
On Thursday, Simon Jungblut from the University of Bremen presented the EU project FACE-IT. Focused on the Arctic’s rapidly changing cryosphere and biodiversity, he illustrated how transdisciplinary research, effective collaboration, and a smart communication strategy can aid in investigating and mitigating impacts of climate change on fjord ecosystems, on local communities, and their livelihoods. Simon highlighted the value of large collaborative projects like FACE-IT in expanding professional networks and enhancing scientific contributions. In this respect, he strongly encouraged early career researchers to apply for key positions in a big international and interdisciplinary project, such as project managers or outreach coordinators.
Wrapping things up on Friday, Christoph Sodemann from the media NGO Constructify.Media presented on “An Example of merging Constructive Journalism and Research for the Greater Good” through the newly funded Arctic research project “The Year-round Ecosystem Study on Svalbard YESSS”. The main message was that media outlets, who are reporting in a “constructive way” and also shed light on possible solutions for the manyfold global crises, may play an important role to overcome the media fatigue of society. People need to know about possible solutions to not lose hope and to still see sense in changing their behavior to safeguard the environment.
Following the participatory emphasis of ICYMARE, each keynote offered lively discussions with all our speakers happily engaging with the next generation of marine scientists. By sparking curiosity and showing early career researchers the broad spectrum of projects and topics they can get involved in, ICYMARE hopes to expand perspectives for the future of marine science.
Workshops
Wednesday was Workshop Day! After wrapping up the morning’s scientific sessions, participants jumped into one of seven interactive workshops, each designed to match special research interests or check-out topics that are useful for any early career researcher.
Renowned science journalist Tim Schröder led the workshop: The Art of Science Communication. In this workshop, participants learned how to present their research clearly and confidently to non-specialists, whether speaking with media, project partners, or the public at science communication events. The focus was on structuring ideas effectively and responding to challenging questions with ease.
In Unexpected Data Adventures, Sarah Büker and Annika Nolte from DataNord – the Data Science Center of the University of Bremen, where researchers at all levels of data management and analysis are supported – explored the growing role of data in environmental science. They introduced participants to the fundamentals of data science, data management, and the FAIR principles, discussing how proper data handling can unlock the full potential of research across various disciplines. In a fun-filled session, they shared their stories, connected them to the participants and demonstrated why, at some point, everyone is a data scientist.
Susanne Schüller from Inter-Research Science Publisher shared insights into Navigating Peer Review. She provided practical advice for first-time authors, covering manuscript preparation, the peer-review process, and strategies for managing feedback from editors and reviewers. Participants also learned how to avoid common pitfalls and handle tough reviewer comments. This workshop proved particularly popular, as – according to our participants – it’s exactly these questions that often fall by the wayside during university courses.
In Generation Sea: Protecting the Baltic, Katja Laingui and Paul Trouth from PROTECT BALTIC, HELCOM welcomed young professionals to join the conversation on marine protection. This workshop emphasized the importance of youth participation in protecting the Baltic Sea, with a focus on data-driven approaches and ecosystem-based management. Attendees explored innovative ways to get involved and make a meaningful impact. The best? Katja and Paul will offer the opportunity of an online workshop later in the year to ICYMARE participants.
Quite a few of our ICYMARE 2024 BREMEN participants choose the more technical topics offered by our sponsors and partners. Because when are you ever going to get the chance to have company staff explain to you the nitty-gritty of their acoustic receivers or pH sensors? (Hint: at ICYMARE 2025 BREMERHAVEN).
Barbara Glemser from SubCtech led pCO2 Measurements, a hands-on workshop that delved into the science and technology behind measuring CO2 in ocean surfaces. Participants got to test out equipment, learning why accurate pCO2 data is essential for climate models and what challenges future scientists may face.
Hilde Johannesen from Thelma Biotel presented Acoustic Receivers, a session on aquatic telemetry. Participants learned about tracking the movement of marine animals using acoustic transmitters and receivers, and even got to practice configuring and deploying the equipment in real-world scenarios.
Finally, Dr. Münevver Nehir from PyroScience GmbH hosted Optical Oxygen and pH Sensors. This workshop offered an introduction to sensor technology for measuring key environmental parameters like oxygen and pH in various marine ecosystems. Participants received hands-on experience with cutting-edge instruments used in marine research, including calibration techniques and data retrieval.
For those keen to explore, the ICYMARE-led excursion to the MARUM, its expansive core repository of the International Ocean Discovery Program, and the University’s outstanding Geosciences Collection proved exceedingly popular. And quite a few participants elected to go back to the Übersee Museum and explore the fascinating themed exhibitions in more depth than the icebreaker allowed. All in all, it proved a very hard choice which of the sessions to participate in! We thank all our workshop hosts for making Wednesday one of the most popular days at ICYMARE 2024 BREMEN.
Round tables
Round tables are definitely becoming a go-to at ICYMARE. In a relaxed setting, we spent our lunch breaks together and explored a new topic every day. The emphasis was on open exchange – rather than having presenters talk to you, round tables are all about sharing, comparing, and building on each other’s experiences. We aim to focus on topics that are particularly challenging for young and early-career researchers as they start their journey in academia. And unsurprisingly, these are often the questions people hesitate to discuss with their supervisor.
To start things off on Tuesday, ICYMARE’s Yvonne Schadewell led a discussion on what to do when you find yourself in a working group where things aren’t going well. Whether it be feeling ignored by your supervisor, colleagues not contributing, or getting bombarded with emails over the weekend with immediate reply expectations, toxic work environments can take a toll on any project. Sometimes, the best choice might be to consider a change and luckily this certainly doesn’t have to be a career-ending move. In fact, we established that most participants in this situation regretted not pulling the plug sooner.
At times, you might even realize that academia isn’t the right fit at all, whether due to difficult work experiences or because you’re looking for a more flexible career path. This was the focus of Franziska Pausch’s session on Wednesday, where she shared her transition into the private sector as a freelance scientific consultant. Currently, she collaborates with the British start-up Seafields on addressing the invasive Sargassum issue in the Caribbean. The group tackled questions that aren’t easily answered by a quick online search, such as how to start out and position yourself in the market, how to price your time and – getting down to the fun part – how to do a freelance tax return.
On Thursday, we switched it up and discussed the topic of scientific diving. While diving can be an exciting part of your career, we also explored whether it’s worth the investment and what other opportunities might be available to enhance your skills. Our team members, L Kappas and Sarah Russwurm, shared their insights and practical advice from years of experience in the dive industry. One key message – clearly a recurring theme through our round tables – is that your time is valuable and you should consider negotiating a scientific diving certification in your compensation packages.
We concluded this year’s lineup with our most in-demand topic: mental health. It’s a subject that’s increasingly gaining attention but is not always easy to address in a professional environment, especially when just starting out. ICYMARE’s Joelle Greife, alongside a representative from the psychological office of the University of Bremen Cordula Schrör, facilitated a session where participants could share their challenges and brainstorm strategies for managing stress, balancing exams and deadlines, and navigating the competitive search for internships, jobs, and funding. Cordula Schrör made a point of explaining the different ways your university can assist if you find yourself struggling. Reaching out is the first – and often the hardest – step, yet it can be hugely beneficial to your well-being.
Art Project
At ICYMARE, we value the insights we can all gain from one-another. The more interdisciplinary we try to work, the easier we can all look beyond our often narrow specialties. By making art – in its various forms – part of ICYMARE, we manage exactly this. And unsurprisingly, the art project at ICYMARE 2024 BREMEN turned out to be a huge success. Anyone was invited to contribute, from seasoned artists to participants that haven’t drawn something for fun since kindergarten. The result? A room full of original artworks – from collages to cartoons to detailed species drawings. The creative diversity showcased the incredible talent of all involved. But also, this room turned out to be a favorite hang-out for people to relax and enjoy a breather from the sometimes hectic conference schedule.
A special highlight of ICYMARE 2024 BREMEN was the participation of Anjleen Hanak. Not only did she visually capture many of our sessions and keynotes in her unique artistic style – bringing talks to life in a way that words alone couldn’t – but she also led an insightful workshop on visual recording techniques. Because ground-breaking research is fantastic, but without outward communication and captivating storytelling nobody is going to take notice of your fantastic work.
We were also honored to have Laura Lamni from Finland whose art explored the deep connection between science, the ocean and her personal experiences. It was wonderful to see how art from different parts of the world come together to enrich the ICYMARE 2024 BREMEN. So feel free to bring your art supplies along to the next conference (or feel free to use ours) and get creative!
ICYMARE 2024 BREMEN Program
All ICYMARE 2024 Bremen Sessions
1 Deciphering Ocean Transformation in a Changing World
Hosted by Anika Happe and Maren Staniek
Climate change and additional anthropogenic pressures induce a wide range of environmental changes in aquatic environments, such as gradual warming, ocean acidification, amplified extreme events, or altered light- and nutrient regimes. However, community and ecosystem level responses to these changes remain unclear as highly controlled laboratory experiments cannot reflect the full complexity of natural systems. Mesocosm experiments are an important tool to fill this knowledge gap by providing a near-natural setting for studying higher system complexity, species interactions, and by offering a wide range of possibilities to manipulate environmental conditions and to test mitigation measures. In this session, we welcome submissions on mesocosm experiments examining single or multiple stressor impacts on different aquatic systems. Studies can focus on the effects on single organisms, populations, or communities (e.g., phytoplankton, zooplankton, benthos, fish), their ecosystem functions, resistance, resilience and recovery as well as eco-evolutionary responses. We aim to include studies across a wide range of aquatic habitats (e.g., fully marine, intertidal, lakes, rivers). Overall, the session aims to provide a comprehensive insight into the possibilities and limitations of mesocosm research for assessing the impacts of global change related stressors on aquatic systems. We hope that this session will fuel the discussion on the status quo in mesocosm research and inspire future collaborations. Join us in exploring the diversity of mesocosm-based experiments used across aquatic systems!
Hosted by Runa Reuter and Aman Akeerath Mundanatt
In the context of increasing greenhouse gas concentrations, it is getting even more important to better understand the marine carbon cycle and its crucial role in modulating changes in climate. In the surface waters of the ocean photosynthetically active organisms fix carbon dioxide into organic matter which is moved by the biological carbon pump to the seafloor, where it can be sequestered for many years. This session aims to bring together marine early career researchers from different disciplines, studying controlling mechanisms of the (biological) carbon pump – from particle formation to degradation and preservation of organic matter. Contributions regarding all aspects of carbon cycle research, from modern settings to the geological past and from in situ observations to modelling approaches are invited. Presentations covering novel or unconventional approaches or ideas are particularly encouraged.
Hosted by Carolin Müller
Climate change operates at both local and global scales, leading to varied effects that manifest gradually or rapidly. The observed impacts exhibit ecosystem-specific differences contingent on geographical locations. Oceans and waterways are experiencing notable shifts in temperature, salinity, acidity, and oxygenation, underscoring the critical need to address fish adaptability. Fish, as vulnerable yet ecologically and economically significant organisms, play a pivotal role in maintaining biodiversity. This session, delves into the profound consequences of climate change on oceans and aquatic ecosystems through the lens of fish. We invite scholars to showcase their research projects in this pivotal field, welcoming contributions focused on any fish species worldwide. The call-to-action is clear: apply your insights, contribute to the dialogue, and help shape the future of fish-focused research.
Hosted by Eva K. Rohlfer and Anna Fiesinger
Benthic ecosystems, comprising the diverse communities of organisms inhabiting the ocean floor, play a pivotal role in maintaining ecological balance and sustaining the health of marine environments. Focusing on these vulnerable ecosystems, we examine the multifaceted threats faced by benthic organisms and the subsequent repercussions for ecosystem resilience. Benthic organisms are exposed to a myriad of stressors such as rising sea temperatures, ocean acidification, and alterations in nutrient cycling. Benthic macrofauna plays a key role in organic matter processing and benthic-pelagic carbon cycling directly through their metabolism and indirectly through bioturbation. The on-going changes in the ocean disrupt symbiotic relationships, hamper reproductive success, and influence biodiversity elements and physiological traits of benthic communities. The environmental changes could therefore lead to a different functional role of benthic flora and fauna in key ecosystem processes. Linkages between benthic ecology and ecosystem health including local stressors and global climatic factors, need to be recognised for effective conservation and management strategies of benthic ecosystems in the face of an uncertain future. If you are studying the benthic ecosystems (no matter if fauna, flora, sediment or water) in our changing oceans, you are very welcome in our session!
Hosted by Cindy Meyer & Léa Joly
Marine coastal environments are considered as the most diverse places on Earth. They are subjected to strong dynamic interactions both with the pelagic and the terrestrial environment, and thus more vulnerable to global change and anthropogenic pressure. There is a strong need to understand current ecological processes at different biological scales in the field (individual to ecosystems) and how climate change could modify the physiology, interactions and ecosystem structure. We are looking for researchers working on coastal ecology and/or climate change effect on coastal ecology, using different tools at any biological and taxonomic level. We would like to bring different expertise together to highlight the potential of using complementary approaches for coastal ecology research.
2 Delving Into Marine Socio-Ecological Dynamics
Hosted by S. Ali Hosseiniazad, Nastaran Sadeghi and Dorota Piechowiak
Recognising the pivotal role that coastlines, seas, and the ocean play in human existence underscore the critical need to prioritise marine environmental protection. In response to this necessity, major international organisations such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO) have taken extensive and targeted measures to protect marine life. The current international legal regime in the field of marine environmental protection is governed by a relatively advanced treaty and customary legal system. Advancements in marine environmental law even leveraged developments in other fields of environmental law. Despite international endeavours to lawfully protect the marine environment and biodiversity against pollution, overexploitation, or the effects of climate change, the main question arises: how does international environmental law effectively protect and preserve the marine environment? Join our session to scrutinise critical aspects of marine environmental protection, exploring the international legal order consisting of instruments and organisational initiatives contributing to this paramount cause.
Hosted by Marissa Levinson & Gabriel Rivas Mena
How humans interact with the environment has a considerable influence on marine ecosystems and the associated species. The interconnectedness between human societies and marine ecosystems unravels into multifaceted dimensions, requiring multi- and transdisciplinary approaches to address complex challenges and identify sustainable solutions. Looking through a social-ecological lens, opportunities arise to apply knowledge with innovative resource management strategies that cultivate a positive relationship with nature. Moreover, there is an opportunity to explore best practices and applications across diverse dimensions such as adaptive governance, marine spatial planning, policy formulation, and economic frameworks. Moreover, a discussion on the varying interpretations of sustainable use among stakeholders and communities is essential for advancing the development and utilization of tools for biodiversity conservation. The complexity of the challenges faced requires a balance between human and ecological needs to ensure a sustainable future. In this session, we invite presentations showcasing case studies that exemplify the innovative application of interdisciplinary and participatory methodologies across different scales to address the challenges confronting marine ecosystems. By sharing experiences and insights, we aim to enrich our collective understanding and chart pathways toward a more resilient and thriving marine environment.
3 Unravelling the Effects of Marine Pollution
Hosted by Alena Sakovich and Norlaila Binti Mohd Zanuri
Plastic pollution is a significant global challenge in marine environments. It manifests in various forms, from large-scale plastic garbage patches in the open ocean to the widespread presence of microplastics permeating marine waters, organisms, and sediments. The pervasive presence of this pollutant in the seas and oceans poses a substantial threat to the sustainability and health of marine ecosystems, underscoring the urgency for comprehensive action. Addressing this problem necessitates extensive research and collaborative efforts between scientists from diverse research fields.
The main goal of this session is to encourage dialogue among early-career scientists from different disciplines within the scope of marine plastic pollution, highlighting the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in addressing this issue comprehensively. We welcome work from a broad spectrum of research areas, ranging from observational and modelling studies to identify sources and pathways of plastics, to laboratory experiments assessing their impact on the environment and biota and innovative mitigation strategies to combat plastic pollution. This collective integration of diverse research methodologies and insights is a crucial step towards to provide scientific evidences to support target strategy to mitigate and combating this pressing environmental issue.
This session will also create the space for researchers to emphasize the importance of bridging the gap between plastic pollution research and policy implementation, fostering collaboration between scientists, policymakers, and the public to translate scientific findings into actionable strategies.
3.2) Below the surface – Fisheries and aquaculture related marine plastic pollution and their impact
Hosted by Waranya Wataniyakun and Kristine Cerbule
Marine plastic pollution is a considerable challenge faced across the globe, irrespective of locations and climates. Considerable sources of marine plastic pollution include several industries, such as fisheries and aquaculture. Both fishing and aquaculture industries and other maritime operations are highly reliant on use of plastic materials in various equipment which can result in production in marine plastic litter. Such plastic materials often used by fisheries and aquaculture industries could remain in the ocean for a long time and create macro- and microplastic pollution with associated negative effects on the marine environment. Furthermore, in fisheries, one of the large challenges is pollution caused by abandoned, lost or otherwise discarded fishing gears (ALDFG). Such gear can result in prolonged continuous capture and mortality of marine animals, so-called “ghost fishing” due to use of persistent plastic material in fishing gear construction. This session aims to bring together ideas and previous and ongoing research on marine plastic pollution resulting from fisheries and aquaculture industries or marine operations as well including, but not limited to, pollution rates, ghost fishing, impact of plastic pollution on the marine environment. The session could include a broad range of topics from fishing gear technology related fields up to toxicity caused by microplastics that are resulted from fisheries and aquaculture.
Hosted by Louisa Karl and Victoria Wegner
The marine environment stands as a testament to the impact of anthropogenic activities with pollutants infiltrating every corner of its vast expanse. From plastic debris littering coastlines to chemical contaminants permeating the depths of the ocean trenches the influence of human actions is pervasive. In this context marine ecotoxicology emerges as a crucial discipline offering insights into the intricate processes shaping the health of our oceans and the many life forms they harbour. This session delves into the multifaceted realm of marine ecotoxicology shedding light on the pathways through which contaminants enter and move through marine ecosystems and the diverse effects they exert on their organisms. From elucidating uptake mechanisms in marine organisms to unravelling the molecular and behavioural consequences of exposure our discussions aim to deepen our understanding of the intricate interplay between contaminants and the marine environment. Join us as we investigate the challenges posed by pollutants in marine ecosystems and connect with fellow ecotoxicologists and scientists from other fields to create a better understanding of our oceans!
4 Advancing Aquatic Research Through Cutting-Edge Technologies and Methodologies
Hosted by Leonard Günzel, Michele Grimaldi and Sebastian Realpe Rua
The vastness of our ocean is still largely unexplored, and it is becoming clearer that to unravel its mysteries, scientists need to be able to generate and handle an expansive amount of data. The tools that have become standard in the field in recent years are plentiful. With autonomous technology, we can overcome singular high-cost measurement campaigns and move towards recurring autonomous monitoring of the oceans. Using novel high-accuracy sonars, we are able to monitor swarm characteristics better. Back on shore, we can find correlations in large datasets that would take humans centuries to process. Technology, once an enabling tool to support scientists in their venture into the ocean realm, has transformed into an independent discipline. It now facilitates every aspect from data acquisition to finding correlations in huge datasets. Thus, the scope of this session is supposed to be broad and wide arching. Join us in this broad-ranging session where ocean technologists meet to share innovative solutions from their respective fields. This session aims to be a hub for young researchers, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and novel ideas. We welcome proposals in ocean technology, ranging from new adhesives to cutting-edge machine learning models, to contribute to a vibrant and constructive community.
Hosted by Alice Fabbretto, Erika Piaser and Nicola Ghirardi
Over the past few decades, Remote Sensing (RS) technologies have emerged as pivotal tools for monitoring and assessing health of aquatic ecosystems, estimating water quality and aquatic vegetation parameters by analysing the spectral characteristics of the water bodies and their key components. These technologies offer extensive spatial coverage and frequent monitoring, furnishing near real-time data at a large scale, thereby complementing traditional in-situ measurements. Beyond assessing optically active water quality parameters, RS technologies offer unparalleled capabilities for the retrieval of lake bottom characteristics, turbidity, chlorophyll concentration, dissolved organic matter, and detection of harmful algal blooms. In recent years, spaceborne and airborne hyperspectral imaging, joint with LiDAR and radar sensors, along with the well-established multispectral RS technology, enable mapping and monitoring of aquatic vegetation distribution, abundance, and health, as well as the impacts of human activities on aquatic plant communities. Additionally, the integration of RS data with in-situ measurements are useful to investigate vegetation ecological functions and plant functional traits at different levels. Who should attend: This session is aimed at young researchers interested in advanced remote sensing technologies, real case studies and applications in aquatic environments. If you are involved in environmental activities aimed at preserving precious aquatic ecosystems, this session offers valuable insights, networking opportunities and knowledge exchange in the field of aquatic remote sensing. Join us for an immersive session that explores the potential of Remote Sensing technologies for application in freshwater ecosystems and coastal habitats by crossing a diverse range of aquatic environments, each playing a critical role in supporting life on Earth. This session aims to show innovative approaches and applications in a real-world scenario to address key challenges in water resource management and conservation strategies.
Hosted by Fedor Lishchenko and Roman Petrochenko
Sclerochronology is known as a discipline that provides baseline data for a variety of life history, ecology, and management studies. Nowadays it’s hard to imagine a comprehensive study on species biology that does not provide a piece of information on its maximum age or growth rates. In paleoclimatic studies, it allows the reconstruction of past environmental conditions. Many stock assessment protocols presume collecting data on the age composition of the stock units. But sclerochronology is much more than a convenient tool! The discipline provides a great variety of insights per se. Analysis of recording or hard structures trace element or isotope composition, modelling of morphological responses in these structures to different environments, and global variation in growth rates of animals, all are just the tip of the iceberg of the variety of sclerochronological studies. Moreover, the field of research has been rapidly developing in the past years, and the dream technologies of the past, like 3D image analysis or modelling of hydrodynamic properties of molluscan shells, become true and even routine. In our eyes, this theme session provides a platform for a broad discussion on the recent advances in all the fields of sclerochronology, from studies on micro- and macrostructure of recording structures to the practical application of the age and growth data in stock assessment. Are there fields of sclerochronological research we didn’t mention here or ones we even can’t imagine? We are excited to hear about it! At the “Sclerochronology – providing insights for life history, ecology, and management studies” theme session we warmly welcome paleontologists, biologists, ecologists, fishery scientists, and everyone who shares our passion for sclerochronological research.
5 Exploring the Wonders of Marine Flora
Hosted by Wiktoria Chudzik and L. Kappas
Join our distinguished panel of experts as they delve into the fascinating realm of marine phycoflora – an incredibly diverse group encompassing cyanobacteria, algae, and vascular plants, including the vital seagrasses. This panel sheds light on the pivotal role these photosynthetic organisms play in sea and ocean ecosystems, serving as the foundation of intricate food chains. Our discussions will highlight the significance of phytoplankton, the primary producer of oxygen in oceans, contributing not only to global oxygen production but also ensuring the oxygenation of marine waters. Beyond their role in oxygen production and as a food source, these organisms perform multifaceted functions, offering valuable marine resources for human utilisation. Delve into the panel’s insights on how seagrasses and macroalgae provide essential habitats and refuge for various species, influencing physiological processes that regulate the circulation of biogenic elements and mineral compounds. Discover the contribution of these organisms to sediment stabilisation, along with the versatile compounds derived from them, such as agar and carrageenan, showcasing their application in biotechnological processes like biofuels. Our esteemed panellists will explore the adaptability of marine phycoflora across diverse ecological conditions, from polar regions to tropical areas, often inhabiting inaccessible territories. Gain insights into their pioneering role in colonising areas and discover how their processes and substances serve as prototypes for pharmaceutical and industrial applications. This conference panel, aptly titled “Marine Phycology,” invites you to join an interdisciplinary journey, addressing biology, ecology, genetics, chemistry, and biotechnology aspects. Explore technical and methodological insights that inspire and bring new knowledge to the breeding, identification, and utilisation of these remarkable marine organisms. Do not miss this opportunity to engage with the forefront of marine science and research.
6 Unveiling the Mysteries of Life Below the Surface
Hosted by Neele Schmidt
Understanding how marine organisms reproduce and grow is crucial for uncovering the secrets of their life cycles. Exploring facets such as fertilization and embryo development, as well as adaptations for survival, growth, and successful reproduction is essential in reproduction research. These concepts, involving various reproductive strategies and life cycle stages, significantly shape the dynamics of marine communities. By grasping these aspects, we can better conserve and manage marine resources, ensuring the sustainability of marine ecosystems. This session welcomes presentations covering aspects of recruitment and early life history across various organisms and scientific disciplines, including (but not limited to) ecosystem health, population dynamics, marine conservation, as well as fisheries and aquaculture.
Hosted by Leyla Israpilova
Marine megafauna serve as a key role in maintaining ecosystem health in open waters and coastal environments. Despite their importance, these large-bodied organisms including sharks, rays, bony fishes, whales, delphinids, seals, sea turtles, and species of squids and octopuses face numerous threats, including exploitation of resources, habitat loss, pollution, bycatch, underwater noise, and climate change. Over the last century, the combined effects of these factors have caused population declines and local extinctions. Recognizing the urgent need for conservation, this session aims to bring together current research on marine megafauna with a focus on addressing their ecological importance, highlighting critical habitats facing anthropogenic stress, and proposing effective conservation strategies.
Hosted by Viktoria Sturm
Explore with your peers current gaps in the understanding of corals and coral reef environments by joining this session! Coral reefs are vital for marine biodiversity, serving as essential habitats for a multitude of marine species. They also play a critical role in supporting the livelihoods of millions of people through economic activities. However, these invaluable ecosystems are under severe threat from human activities, including climate change, overfishing, and pollution. Urgent conservation measures and solutions to combat climate change are imperative to preserve coral reefs and the countless benefits they provide to both marine life and human communities. This session aims to bring together early-career coral scientists and friends to discuss innovative ideas, insightful studies, and exchange knowledge. Together, we will unravel the complexities of corals, contributing to the shared pursuit of advancing scientific understanding and conservation efforts.
7 Open Session
Hosted by: Theo Krüger and Jöran Paap
If you think your research does not fit into any of our other sessions, please feel free to submit your abstract to this session!
ICYMARE 2024 Keynotes
Speaker: Nuri Max Steinmann & Kim Nierobisch, UN Ocean Decade ECOP Node, Germany
Geopolitical Inclusivity: This topic explores the structural obstacles that sustain inequalities within the international ocean community. Key challenges include the economic barriers that limit the participation of geopolitically underrepresented voices, political marginali-zation influenced by global issues, and restricted access to vital data from their regions. The focus is on understanding these hurdles and identifying pathways to ensure more inclusive practices in marine conservation and beyond.
Intersectoral Inclusivity: This theme highlights the importance of involving a diverse range of stakeholders in ocean-related initiatives. Achieving sustainable and equitable marine conservation requires a broader perspective, new funding opportunities and co-devel-oped projects with vulnerable communities.
This keynote presentation promises to provide valuable opportunities for discussion and exchange on how inclusivity, both geopolitical and intersectoral, can be effectively prac-ticed driving meaningful progress in ocean research and conservation.
Biography:
Kim Nierobisch is an ocean activist and is currently completing her master´s degree in inter-disciplinary marine research at Kiel University. She is a member of the German Ocean Dec-ade Committee and ECOP Germany.
Nuri Steinmann is a marine biologist, grant manager at Blue Action Fund, a foundation for international marine conservation and member of the German Ocean Decade Committee and ECOP Germany.
Speaker: Gauvain Wiemer, Deutsche Allianz Meeresforschung
Effective data management is the cornerstone of rigorous scientific research, particularly in marine science, where complex datasets are critical to understanding ecosystems, climate change, and biodiversity.
This talk will explore the importance of proper data handling, from collection to storage, ensuring data integrity, accessibility, and reproducibility. We will also discuss the role of data management in modern research tools, including artificial intelli-gence, and how well-structured data enhances the accuracy and reliability of these tools. By adopting good data management practices, marine scientists can drive more transparent, collaborative, and impactful research.
Biography:
Gauvain Wiemer studied geosciences at Université Louis Pasteur in Strasbourg and the University of Bremen, earning his PhD from MARUM-Center for Marine Environmental Sciences in 2014. His research on the geotechnical properties of sediments under earthquake conditions advanced the understanding of submarine landslide triggers. After his doctoral work, he shifted focus to data and science management, interning at the Brussels office of the Konsortium Deutsche Meeresforschung, where he represented the German marine science community in data management aspects at the European Commission. He now leads the data management and digitalization core area at the German Marine Research Alliance.
Thursday, 19 September 2024 – The EU Project FACE-IT: How Research Projects can enhance your Network
Speaker: Dr. Simon Jungblut, Marine Botany, University of Bremen, Germany
Arctic ice is melting, turning sea-terminated into land-terminated glaciers. This rapid loss of cryosphere is accompanied by biodiversity changes, with likely far-reaching effects on ecosystem functioning in Arctic fjords and related human activities. FACE-IT is an EU-fund-ed Horizon 2020 project, aiming to enable adaptive co-management of social-ecological fjord systems in the Arctic in the face of rapid biodiversity changes and its consequences. Within FACE-IT, selected Arctic fjord systems at different stage of cryosphere loss in Greenland, Svalbard and Finnmark, Northern Norway, are being compared for biodiversity changes, effects on local communities, food production, livelihoods, fisheries, tourism and other ecosystem services.
This presentation will illustrate results from the project in combination with showcas-ing how an open and engaging attitude towards a big research project may benefit the network and scientific output especially of early career researchers.
Biography:
Simon is a marine zoologist specialized on the ecology and ecophysiology of crustaceans and sea urchins, based at the University on Bremen, Germany. He is the project manager of FACE-IT and coordinates its research consortium of about 60 people from 14 institutions. He also is the connection to the European Commission and is responsible for the outreach activities of the project, including homepage, social media channels, conference sessions and policy advice. Simon co-founded ICYMARE and the monthly Ocean Chat within the Bremen Society for Natural Sciences and is now member of its board.
Speaker: Christoph Sodemann, Constructify.Media, Bremen, Germany
Constructive Journalism” is a style of reporting that does not only evaluate the status quo of crises and conflicts. It also asks questions about the future and illustrates potential solutions and pathways to overcome these crises and conflicts. Constructify.Media is a young media association, which aims to overcome the generally wide spread trend of negativism. In cooperation with universities and other educational institutions, the asso-ciation develops and implements workshops, trainings and curricula that apply the con-cept of constructive journalism to climate, environment and water reporting. The recent-ly funded research project YESSS (Year-round Ecosystem Study on Svalbard) includes Constructify.Media as the partner responsible for outreach activities.
This lecture will introduce the concept of Constructive Journalism, its implementation into the outreach activities of YESSS, and how Constructive Journalism and research can benefit from each other.
Biography:
Christoph has a 30-year history as a journalist and media expert with a strong focus on media training. After graduation from the University of Bremen in German literature and his-tory, he worked as an editor, reporter and presenter at Radio Bremen for more than ten years. In 1999, he founded his own TV production house Südost-Medienagentur with branches in Bremen, Belgrade, Chisinau and Sofia. Südost-Medienagentur conducted TV trainings for young journalists from South-Eastern Europe, and produced films for German TV (3sat/ZDF, Deutsche Welle). From 2009 to 2011 he was editor-in-chief of center.tv Bremen. He is the founder of a Bremen-based PR agency and was head of PR for five years at BORDA, an NGO implementing water and sanitation projects around the world. During that time, he was responsible for the communication of the EU Horizon 2020 project INNOQUA, and held media workshops on water reporting in Jordan, Kurdistan/Northern-Iraq and Uzbekistan. Since 2012 he has been a lecturer in the media department of the University of Bremen. Today he is managing director of constructify.media e.V.
ICYMARE 2024 Workshops & Excursions
Workshop host: Ulrike Prange, MARUM – Center for Marine Environmental Sciences at the University of Bremen
MARUM produces fundamental scientific knowledge about the role of the ocean and the ocean floor in the total Earth system. The dynamics of the ocean and the ocean floor significantly impact the entire Earth system through the interaction of geological, physical, biological and chemical processes. These influence both the climate and the global carbon cycle, and create unique biological systems.
Come with us on a journey down to the ocean floor and discover the secrets of the deep sea. In our deep-sea cinema we show videos taken by our diving robot at several thousand meters of water depth. A tour through MARUM will give you an overview on deep-sea technologies such as the MARUM-MeBo sea floor drill rig or the remotely operated diving robot MARUM-QUEST. Only the use of these underwater technologies enables research work at MARUM. MARUM is also home of the Bremen core repository of the International Ocean Discovery Program (IODP) where more than 187 kilometers of cores from the ocean floor are stored.
The second part of the tour will present the Geosciences Collection of the University of Bremen at the Faculty of Geosciences. Today, it is housed in the buildings of the Research Faculty MARUM which, in addition to collection and office space, also includes a mechanical preparation workshop and a chemical laboratory for the processing of artefacts and in-house research. The collection currently comprises around 300,000 specimens, ranging from dinosaur bones to meteorites. Even zoological objects are included, especially modern snail shells, some of which were first described in historical publications. In addition to research work, the material is also regularly used for train-ing and teaching in universities, schools and the public sector and presented in special exhibitions.
Workshop host: Michael Stiller, Übersee-Museum Bremen
Dr. Michael Stiller from the Übersee-Museum Bremen is offering a guided tour through the highlights of the exhibition.
The tour will start at 3 pm from the entrance area of the museum. Dr. Stiller is the head of the natural history department of the museum and the vice president of the Bremen Society for Natural Sciences from 1864.
Workshop hosts: Katja Laingui, Paul Trouth, Cecilia Nyman & Jannica Haldin, PROTECT BALTIC, HELCOM
Are you tired of sitting at the kids’ table and ready to be part of the conversation? PROTECT BALTIC is calling on youth (15-24 years) and young professionals (25-35 years) to share your perspectives and help shape our work on Baltic Sea protection. While we might be older millennials and Gen Xers, we recognize that we cannot assume to know how the younger generation thinks or the wealth of knowledge you can bring to the table. PROTECT BALTIC is pioneering a science-based, data-driven, and holistic approach to marine protection. We combine ecosystem-based frameworks with socio-economic considerations to effectively manage marine protected areas. The Baltic Sea countries are committed to protecting 30% of their waters by 2030, with a goal of 10% under strict protection. However, our focus goes beyond percentages; we strive to maximize biodiversity benefits. Currently, most marine sectors, governments, research institutions, and NGOs are well-represented in our efforts, but there’s a glaring gap where young stakeholders should be. As the generation that will face the consequences of current actions and inactions, your input is crucial. We are offering you a seat at the table to ensure your voices are heard and considered. Whether you’re interested in our Regional Restoration Plan, the augmented reality (AR) app, or the potential for scalability, your involvement will help the project ensure sustainable outcomes. Join us in this interactive workshop where we will explore your motivations and concerns, find innovative ways to enhance your engagement in PROTECT BALTIC, and establish sustained participation throughout the project’s duration. Since the products of this project have the potential to be adaptable and scalable, we welcome young marine professionals from other regions, not just the Baltic. Together, we can shape the future of Baltic Sea protection, rooted in science, and enhanced by your participation.
Workshop hosts: Susanne Schüller, Inter-Research Science Publisher
Getting ready to publish your first article? Feeling daunted by or fearful of peer review? Wondering what editors, reviewers and also publishers pay attention to? Need tips on how to manage criticism and formulate effective responses?
In this workshop we give you an opportunity to gain inside knowledge from a publisher and editorial perspective. We consider what is important when preparing a manuscript for submission and what to pay attention to during the peer-review process.
We provide an overview of common pitfalls and how to avoid them, and give advice on how to deal with inappropriate reviewer comments, tough editors and their decisions. We will also discuss publication processes post article acceptance and the attributes that define a high-quality journal.
Workshop hosts: Hilde Johannesen, Thelma Biotel
Thelma Biotel wishes to invite attendees at ICYMARE to join us for a workshop outlining how to set up and use our Thelma Biotel receivers in the field.
Acoustic telemetry allows detailed observations of the movement behavior of many aquatic species such as elasmobranchs, anadromous and other migratory fish, and benthic and coral fish. With the development of smaller transmitters over the last years acoustic telemetry has also been increasingly used in the behavioral study of inverte-brates such as crabs and other benthic organisms.
During our 2 hours workshop we will give you an introduction to the basic principles of aquatic telemetry and the equipment Thelma Biotel has developed to study different types of behavior in aquatic animals. You will get the chance to practice the activation and de-activation of transmitters and receivers. How to configurate our receivers and change their batteries as well as data downloading. We will show you how to deploy and retrieve receivers using different mooring and recovery options. deployment and retrieval of receivers, as well as data downloading.
Workshop hosts: Sarah Büker & Annika Nolte, DataNord @ Data Science Center, University of Bremen
Have you ever wondered why everyone is talking about data science, whether you are a marine biologist, chemist, or social scientist?
Join us in this engaging workshop, where we will navigate the vast field of data science, discuss your research topics, and explore why (and how) you should care about your data. We will introduce you to key concepts of data management and FAIR data principles, and address the chances and challenges of interdisciplinary work through shared data and methods. In marine science, we deal with incredible useful machines, technologies and inventions, generating more and more data. Rocks can be stored in shelves, water can be put into flasks, plants can be preserved in fridges, but how do you store your data? How do you ensure its usability a decade later, when you can’t even remember what you had for dinner last week? What role does metadata play in this context? And how can data science help to unlock the full potential of your research?
Annika and Sarah work as data scientists at the Data Science Center (University of Bremen), where they support researchers at all levels of data management and analysis. They started out in environmental and marine sciences, not planning to become a data scientist. Their unexpected journeys into data science were driven by curiosity and the challenging yet compelling nature of their own research data. They will share their stories, connect with yours and demonstrate why, at some point, everyone is a data scientist.
Workshop hosts: Tim Schröder, Freelance Journalist
If you want to be understood by everyone, you need to be able to formulate your ideas in a clear and structured way.
The workshop shows you how to present your own research topic and field of work confidently and comprehensibly to people outside your field and how to respond confidently to critical questions – for example in dialogue with project partners, media representatives and the public, at conferences or science communication events.
Workshop hosts: Barbara Glemser, SubCtech GmbH
The changing global climate has become one of mankind’s most pressing problems and it is a constant topic of discussions all around the globe. As the climate crisis can neither be denied nor stopped we need reliable models, which can help predict possible climate scenarios. Approximately 70.8% of the earth are covered by oceans, which makes scientif-ic ocean data undeniably important for the calculation of climate models.
To produce reliable climate models, good quality data of different parameters is essential. In the case of CO2 in the oceans on crucial parameter is the partial pressure of CO2 (pCO2) in the ocean’s surface. In this workshop we will together explore, why it is so important and tricky to measure pCO2.
We will take a short look on the measuring principle behind the technology before diving into the working principle of the SubCtech flat membrane equilibrator pCO2 analyzers. For this we will get hands on with our systems, testing them out in the lab, discussing their working principles and comparing them to other systems. In the end you will have a comprehensive overview of how and why we measure pCO2 in the oceans and what the further challenges for a new generation of scientists are.
Workshop hosts: Dr. Münevver Nehir, PyroScience GmbH
PyroScience GmbH is one of the leading manufacturers of advanced optical sensors for pH, oxygen, and temperature for scientific applications. These sensors are utilized across a wide range of marine environments. These include the open ocean, deep sea, and various coastal ecosystems such as mangroves, estuaries, mudflats, kelp forests, seagrass meadows, salt marshes, intertidal zones, oyster reefs, and coral reefs. They are also used in rivers, lakes, and water reservoirs. Monitoring oxygen and pH levels is crucial for understanding ecosystem dynamics and assessing environmental status. This is due to their links to significant phenomena such as global warming, ocean deoxygenation, and acidification.
In this workshop, we will provide an overview of oxygen and pH optode technology and their applications in marine research. Participants will engage in hands-on experience with our plug-and-play FireSting-PRO multi-analyte lab meter, FireSting-GO2 pocket oxygen meter, and AquapHOx long-term standalone loggers. This includes demonstra-tion of calibration procedures, measurement settings, and data retrieval techniques.
A brief presentation will cover the following topics: the necessity of optical sensor tech-nology for marine environmental monitoring, an overview of PyroScience sensor solu-tions, and calibration procedures for precise measurements. Furthermore, typical set-up recommendations for key oceanographic applications like water column profiling, pumped FerryBox systems, aquatic eddy covariance, sediment, coral, and respiration rate studies will be presented. Introductions to the free Workbench and DataInspector software will be provided, along with case studies highlighting successful applications. Concluding the event, a Q&A session will be held. It will provide participants with valuable insights into utilizing advanced instrumentation for monitoring key environmental parameters in aquat-ic ecosystems. This also includes the opportunity to directly engage with the sensors and read-out devices and our expert, facilitating integration of state-of-the-art underwater optical sensors into research projects and development of efficient monitoring strategies for marine environments.