Protecting the ocean requires more than scientific discovery. It depends on collaboration, education, and ensuring that new knowledge reaches the people who can use it. OceanSOS brings together researchers, policymakers, educators, and communities to help translate science into action and build a shared understanding of emerging threats to ocean ecosystems.

Strong international partnerships are at the heart of the project. Building on many years of Atlantic Ocean research collaboration, OceanSOS creates a supportive research environment that brings together expertise from Europe, Africa, and beyond. Effective coordination, independent scientific advice, and close collaboration across disciplines will help ensure the project delivers high-quality science with real-world impact.

A major focus of OceanSOS is supporting the next generation of ocean scientists. The OceanSOS ECOP Fellowship will bring together PhD students and postdoctoral researchers, creating opportunities for networking, training, and international collaboration. Working closely with Early Career Ocean Professional (ECOP) networks across Africa, Europe, and South America, the OceanSOS ECOP Fellowship will provide hands-on experience and co-developed training in topics such as ocean literacy, governance, and the sustainable management of the High Seas.

OceanSOS will also engage university students through the SEAmester Floating University, where participants will combine life aboard a research vessel with practical fieldwork and teaching on ocean governance, socioecological resilience, and sustainable blue economy practices. This unique learning experience will help equip future leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to address complex ocean challenges.

Science has the greatest impact when it is shared beyond the research community. OceanSOS will develop innovative educational resources that make complex ocean science engaging and accessible for people of all ages. At the heart of these activities will be a new immersive planetarium show, bringing OceanSOS discoveries to life through stunning visualisations, expedition footage, and interactive storytelling. Designed for schools, families, and the wider public, the show will explain how ocean ecosystems function, how they are changing, and why they matter for society.

The planetarium show experience will be supported by online learning resources, allowing teachers, students, and community groups to continue exploring OceanSOS science before and after each visit. These materials will also be used at science festivals and public events, helping to raise awareness of the biodiversity and ecosystems found in areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ), and the role that science plays in supporting sustainable ocean management.

By combining scientific excellence with education, communication, and international collaboration, OceanSOS aims to leave a lasting legacy that extends well beyond the lifetime of the project. Through training, public engagement, and partnerships with global networks, the project will help build a more informed, connected, and empowered ocean community.

OceanSOS’ work on project co-ordination, innovation, exploitation, and education is led by Dr. J. Murray Roberts at Mara Consultants Ltd., supported by Dr. Christian Mohn at Aarhus Universitet. Additional support for this work is provided by Dr. Hermione Cockburn at Mara Consultants Ltd. (Education Lead), Conor Ellis, Alastair Bruce, and Chris George at Dynamic Earth (Planetarium Programme Team), Dr. Andrew Sweetman at SAMS and Dr. Henk-Jan Hoving at GEOMAR (Expedition Team), and Dr. Anna Gebruk and Catie Brown at Mara Consultants Ltd. (Project Management Office).