Seabed 2030 expands ocean floor mapping collaboration with Deakin University
The Nippon Foundation-GEBCO Seabed 2030 Project has entered a partnership with Deakin University, linking Seabed 2030’s convening role in global ocean mapping with Australia’s marine and coastal science expertise, led by Deakin University.
Deakin University is home to the Deakin Marine Research and Innovation Centre (MRIC), Victoria’s leading university-based marine research centre. The centre’s work supports marine resilience, biodiversity protection and informed responses to climate and coastal change across Victoria’s oceans and waterways. Its research activities include ecosystem restoration, sustainable seafood innovation, studies on climate impacts on marine organisms, and long-term coastal monitoring programmes that contribute to national and state observing networks. MRIC operates from campuses on Port Phillip Bay and in Warrnambool, located along the Great Ocean Road.
Strengthening scientific foundations of ocean floor mapping
This new partnership between Seabed 2030 and Deakin University enables the exploration of opportunities for collaboration that strengthen the scientific foundations of ocean floor mapping. This includes advancing understanding of coastal and ocean processes, enhancing environmental data and observations, and contributing to efforts that support sustainable ocean management.
“Partnering with Deakin University brings essential research depth and innovation to our mission,” said Jamie McMichael-Phillips, director of Seabed 2030. “The mapping of the seafloor is fundamental not only to ocean science, but to sustainable marine economies, climate resilience and the future of ocean stewardship.”
Professor Daniel Ierodiaconou of Deakin University added: “The Deakin Marine Mapping Group is committed to delivering real-world impact for the ocean and coastal communities. This includes supporting seabed mapping research for over 20 years. This partnership with Seabed 2030 provides the framework to align our marine and coastal science with global efforts to expand ocean knowledge and inform sustainable development.”
The collaboration aligns with the objectives of the Ocean Decade and reinforces the importance of innovation and international cooperation in achieving a sustainable ocean future.
