Deep-Sea Ecosystems
Technological advances and increasing demand for resources are ushering in a new era of human exploitation of the deep-sea that will impact life in the deep oceans in various ways. It is therefore imperative to increase our understanding of deep-sea ecosystems in line with these anthropogenic and climatic impacts. While there are a number of international fora that allow deep-sea scientists to meet and discuss research, there is no such national body. The Deep-Sea Ecosystems SIG provides a platform for deep-sea researchers in the UK to meet every year and discuss national issues in relation to deep-sea science. Ultimately the SIG gives a voice to the UK deep-sea biological sciences community. 
Updated 14/10/2019
How can you get involved in the SIG?
You can automatically subscribe to the Deep-Sea Ecosystems email list by sending an email:
To: listserv@jiscmail.ac.uk
Subject: BLANK
Message: SUBSCRIBE DEEPSEAUK Firstname Lastname
Then follow the confirmation instructions. This list is used by members for topical discussion and to update on SIG activities, with minimal spamming.
Last year the SIG hosted a Royal Society of London discussion meeting “BeyondChallenger: a new age of deep-sea science and exploration” on the 12th and 13th November. The meeting explored how recent developments in autonomous and robotic technologies could bring about a step-change in deep-sea research, ultimately revolutionising understanding of global biodiversity. 
Latest News
Is fieldwork a requirement for a career in marine science?
Please save the date for an introductory and perception gathering event run by a subset of the Challenger Society EDIA working group. The virtual event will focus on ‘Evaluating perceptions of job roles in marine research and raising awareness of digital twinning of the oceans to promote diversity and inclusivity in the marine sciences.’ The event will take place on the 27th of January 2021 13:30-15:30 on zoom.
The Decade Working Group (DWG): Update
In the UK marine community the United Nations Decade of Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030), hereafter ‘the Decade’, is gaining growing publicity. What is less well established is how UK marine researchers can participate in the Decade and how funding for research will emerge.
New NERC Ocean Observations Consultation
The Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) has asked the National Oceanography Centre (NOC) to lead a piece of work on prioritising the sustained ocean observations that are most important to the UK and the international effort.