Research Theme #14
Ocean Science and Technology
Keywords: Ocean Sustainability, Ocean Governance, Ocean Observation, Marine Technology
Workshop Leaders (PIs)
Osvaldo Ulloa
Universidad de Concepción
oulloa@udec.cl
Laura Bristow
University of Gothenburg
laura.bristow@gu.se
Research Theme Summary
Chile and Sweden are both maritime nations whose histories, economies, cultures, and societal well-being are deeply connected to the sea. Despite their geographical distance, the two countries face similar challenges and opportunities related to climate change, biodiversity loss, sustainable resource use, coastal resilience, and the transition toward sustainable blue economies. This interdisciplinary Research Theme will bring together researchers, engineers, and stakeholders from Sweden and Chile to explore innovative approaches to understanding and managing ocean and coastal systems in support of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 14 (Life Below Water), 13 (Climate Action), and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
The ocean plays a critical role in climate regulation, food security, economic development, and cultural identity. However, accelerating environmental change is placing increasing pressure on marine ecosystems, resources, and ocean governance. Building on the complementary expertise of both countries, the workshop will examine how technological innovation, ecosystem science, policy frameworks, and societal values can contribute to resilient and sustainable ocean futures. Particular emphasis will be placed on emerging ocean-observing and data-analysis technologies, which are transforming our ability to monitor and understand climate-sensitive marine ecosystems from coastal low-oxygen environments to polar regions.
The workshop will foster dialogue across the natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities, and policy studies. Expected outcomes include the establishment of new interdisciplinary networks, the development of joint research proposals, and the creation of longterm Sweden–Chile partnerships. By connecting diverse expertise and perspectives, the workshop will strengthen scientific collaboration and advance evidence-based solutions for climate-resilient ocean stewardship.
Desired Expertise
The workshop aims to attract expertise across a broad range of disciplines, including marine science, oceanography, microbial ecology, biogeochemistry, climate and polar research, marine technology and ocean observation systems, robotics and autonomous platforms, data science, environmental policy, ocean governance, sustainability science, blue economy research and science communication.
Join this Workshop.
About the ACCESS Forum & Research Themes (RTs)
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The ACCESS Forum is an immersive, bi-national event held every 18 months that connects scholars across Chilean and Swedish member universities to address global societal challenges. Rather than functioning as a standard academic conference with passive presentations, an ACCESS workshop operates as an intensive, dedicated "working laboratory."
Participants commit to a single Research Theme (RT)—a targeted, co-led scientific initiative aligned with the ACCESS Research Framework. Over four days of collaborative work sessions, interactive discussions, and co-design activities, participants remain with the same cohort to move research ideas from concept to action.
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By joining our workshop cohort at the upcoming ACCESS Forum, you will:
Co-Develop Concrete Outcomes: Work directly toward joint academic publications, collaborative grant proposals (e.g., ANID, STINT, Horizon Europe), co-supervision of PhD candidates, etc.
Cross-Contextual Insights: Exchange datasets, methodologies, and local perspectives between Chilean and Swedish contexts.
Expand Your Network: Connect with senior researchers, Early Career Researchers (ECRs), and non-academic stakeholders across both research and innovation ecosystems.
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To apply for a seat in this Research Theme workshop, please review the desired expertise above and complete the application form before the registration deadline.
IMPORTANT: Applications from ACCESS member universities will be prioritize.Apply here by 1 November 2026: XXX