CIM will lead a new international research group on ocean sustainability, driven by the CRUSOE network

The Marine Research Centre (CIM) of the University of Vigo, part of the CIGUS network —an initiative promoted by the Xunta de Galicia that brings together institutions recognized for their scientific excellence— will co-lead, together with the University of Aveiro, a strategic research group launching in 2025 focused on ocean sustainability, innovation, and scientific cooperation.

This working group in the marine and maritime fields, led by CIM, is promoted by the Conference of Rectors of Universities of Southwestern Europe (CRUSOE). It aims to boost interdisciplinary research and sustainability in marine ecosystems.

The group will be coordinated by Professor Ana M. Bernabeu and CIM Director Daniel Rey from the University of Vigo, along with researcher Ricardo Calado from the University of Aveiro.

The group will focus on six main lines of action: interdisciplinary research; knowledge and technology transfer; climate change mitigation and adaptation; specialized training; international cooperation; and ocean literacy. Within the framework of Bioeconomy and Biotechnology for a Blue Growth, it presents an ambitious agenda around key priorities such as the impact of climate change on the ocean, restoration of marine biodiversity, innovation in sustainable aquaculture and fisheries, combating pollution, development of marine renewable energy, and the digitalization of ocean data, among others.

Work will be organized through thematic subgroups and a common methodology to foster collaborative project development, access to European funding, and the training of young researchers, while also promoting joint scientific publications and the active involvement of public, private, and social stakeholders.