Cawthron Institute Chief Science Officer Dr Cath McLeod and Ifremer CEO François Houllier have formalised a new strategic partnership between their two research institutes by signing a memorandum of understanding last week during a visit to Ifremer’s two facilities in Nantes and Brest.

The two leaders discussed the natural alignment of both organisations’ missions, which focus on healthy marine ecosystems and sustainable development of the blue economy. Both organisations have significant interests in supporting people and communities, with a shared interest in Pacific Island communities. Over the coming years, our organisations will work closely to increase impact in securing sustainable food sources in the face of climate change and protecting and restoring the marine environment in the Pacific. Discussions with Ifremer’s international biotoxin expert Dr Philipp Hess and shellfish microbiology expert Dr Soizick Le Guyader paved the way for greater collaboration between the institutes on Harmful Algae Blooms and the food safety of aquatic products.

Formalising the relationship between Cawthron and Ifremer will open exciting new opportunities for staff, with increased collaboration on multinational programmes, secondments, and staff placements between the institutes, and joint Ifremer-Cawthron strategic projects. And we anticipate that this increased collaboration will accelerate progress towards key goals, particularly supporting climate adaptation, food security and reducing loss of biodiversity in the marine environment.