The First AQUARIUS Brokerage Event Highlights Transnational Access Opportunities for Marine and Freshwater Researchers
Providing scientists with transnational access to research infrastructures is a central goal of the AQUARIUS project and this was the focus of the first AQUARIUS brokerage event, held on 10th September at The Glasshouse International Centre for Music in Gateshead, UK. The event convened leading experts, researchers, and industry professionals to delve into the opportunities in marine and freshwater research that the AQUARIUS project presents. Organised by the Marine Institute, Ireland, as a side event of the 2024 ICES Annual Science Conference, the event featured presentations and discussions on key components of the project, including its Transnational Access Calls, Training Opportunities, and Open Science practices. The agenda also allowed ample time for networking and engagement with research infrastructure providers, fostering connections that aim to drive forward collaborative efforts.
Getting to Know AQUARIUS and the available Research Infrastructures
Opening the event, Project Coordinator Aodhán Fitzgerald, Marine Institute, provided an overview of the AQUARIUS project, explaining the primary aim of AQUARIUS: to support research projects that leverage multiple research infrastructures to advance the objectives of the EU Mission: Restore our Ocean and Waters. His introduction highlighted the project’s strategic focus on fostering collaborative research efforts that drive progress towards restoring and protecting Europe’s aquatic environments.
To support this goal, an extensive suite of 57 research infrastructure services will be made available through the AQUARIUS Transnational Access (TA) Calls. This initiative aims to facilitate cutting-edge research by providing access to diverse and complementary infrastructures across Europe. Attendees gained a thorough understanding of the project’s objectives and the collaborative ethos that underpins AQUARIUS, emphasising its commitment to fostering international cooperation in marine and freshwater research.
Leading the AQUARIUS work to design and facilitate the Transnational Access Calls process, Anneli Strobel from the Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI) provided details of the call design and application platform, offering guidance on how potential participants can engage with the project. Dr. Strobel underscored the importance of submitting innovative proposals that align with AQUARIUS’s strategic priorities in the five Mission Lighthouse regions.
The event proceeded with a discussion on training opportunities led by Andrea Caburlotto, National Institute of Oceanography and Applied Geophysics (OGS). These trainings are specifically designed to help researchers maximise the use of their chosen research infrastructures, thereby enhancing their projects’ impact. By equipping participants with the necessary skills and knowledge, these initiatives aim to encourage broader engagement with the AQUARIUS project and support its goal of fostering advanced, collaborative research. Targeting early career scientists, calls will open later this year for opportunities to participate in marine internships and floating universities!
The AQUARIUS Open Science and Open Data practices were introduced by Dick Schaap, MARIS, who led a segment on data management and open science practices, highlighting the critical role of robust data management strategies and the value of open access to scientific data. He explained the AQUARIUS data management plan and reinforced AQUARIUS’s commitment to transparency and collaboration, emphasising that accessible and well-managed data is essential for advancing marine and freshwater research.
Following the introductions, the networking and brokerage session offered participants the chance to engage directly with research infrastructure providers. This informal segment allowed attendees to ask questions, share insights, and connect with peers and experts in the field. The session proved valuable in fostering discussions around potential collaborations and provided a deeper understanding of AQUARIUS and its Transnational Access Calls, further enhancing the spirit of cooperation and knowledge exchange within the community.
Q&A Highlights
Q: For the Transnational Access Calls, how long does it take from application to decision?
A: The process includes a science check, external review, logistics review, and typically takes 2-3 months before moving to preliminary review and negotiations for access time to the research infrastructures.
Q: Can we apply for access to a Swedish research vessel to conduct a research cruise off the west coast of Ireland?
A: Research Vessels are only available to work in their ‘Normal Area of Operation’ which is stated in the Infrastructures Catalogue. Some smaller mobile pieces of infrastructure can be transported to locations other than their base location but will depend on transportation cost and availability.
Q: How can we access portable equipment (drones, floats, etc.)?
A: Check the catalogue for detailed scheduling information, including vessel locations. Remember, it’s about aligning your proposal with available research infrastructures, so study the catalogue thoroughly and request information as needed.
Q: If we have relevant events, would the AQUARIUS team be willing to present?
A: The AQUARIUS team is interested in participating, either in person or virtually, depending on the location.
Top Tips
- We are seeking ambitious proposals, with funding opportunities of up to 1 million euros, for large-scale research projects requiring resources like vessels, drones, or satellites.
- Candidates should explore the Research Infrastructures (RIs) catalogue thoroughly to ensure their proposals reflect an understanding of available resources.
- Early engagement with the AQUARIUS team is encouraged to get guidance on the selection process and address any questions about the research infrastructures’ capabilities and their feasibility to conduct the proposed work program.
- Applicants should not wait until the last minute. Proposals must be comprehensive and well-prepared—start building your proposal and consulting with the infrastructure operators as soon as the call opens.
- Proposals that integrate multiple research infrastructures from different geographical locations for one project are encouraged, allowing researchers to leverage diverse resources.