Celebrating trailblazing women in marine science on International Day of Women and Girls in Science

Since its founding in 1884, the Marine Biological Association has been home to many pioneering female scientists who have made groundbreaking contributions to the scientific community. The MBA takes great pride in its diverse team of female scientists, whose contributions continue to shape the future of marine research. “I am thrilled to follow in the … Read more

The quirky bodies of crinoids could shed light on the past while inspiring future innovations and cell therapies.

Crinoids, (known commonly as feather stars and sea lillies) are part of the echinoderm group that includes sea urchins and sea stars. They have shown incredible morphological and biological properties that could inspire future innovations. Dr Angela Stevenson, Senior Research Fellow at the Marine Biological Association is on a mission to discover more about the … Read more

MBA researcher has been awarded the Prix d’Excellence ICES award for pioneering research on climate change

A Senior Research Fellow from the Marine Biological Association (MBA) has been recognised for their outstanding contributions to marine biology research with a prestigious award. Dr Dan Smale has been awarded the Prix d’Excellence by The International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES). The award, which is presented every third year, acknowledges the … Read more

Marine heatwaves threaten important marine species in British waters

Marine species such as seagrasses, kelps, bivalves and corals play a crucial role in the world’s most diverse ecosystems, but they are increasing threatened by marine heatwaves. When marine heatwaves increase ocean temperatures, it can cause devastating effects for marine life with increased deaths and population declines. Scientists from the Marine Biological Association’s (MBA) Smale … Read more

140 Years: How technology is advancing marine science

From underwater videography to aerial drones, technological advancements in ocean observation have significantly enhanced our understanding of marine ecosystems and the impact of human activities on the marine environment. Scientists from the Marine Biological Association (MBA) are now able to collect data in real-time and monitor marine life in ways that were previously unimaginable. Cutting-edge … Read more

Meet our new Senior Research Fellow: Dr Angela Stevenson

Three Research Fellows have been appointed to lead ground-breaking research at the Marine Biological Association (MBA). The new Fellows bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the MBA and will be instrumental in leading research initiatives to address the most pressing challenges facing our ocean. Dr Angela Stevenson Exploring biodiversity in deep (subtidal to … Read more

Study reveals decline in foundation species due to summertime Marine Heatwaves

Researchers have found compelling evidence that intense, summertime Marine Heatwaves play a significant role in the decline of vital marine species. Marine heatwaves are periods of abnormally high seawater temperatures that are unusual for a particular season and region. These extreme weather events can become stressful for marine life, affecting their ability to grow, reproduce … Read more

Seaweed forests are an overlooked component of oceanic carbon storage

A groundbreaking study by an international team of researchers has revealed seaweed forests to be significant contributors to oceanic carbon storage. Their research estimates that the world’s seaweed forests transport 56 million tonnes of carbon (between 10 to 170 million tonnes) to deep ocean sinks each year. Between 4 and 44 million tonnes of this … Read more

British shellfish and seaweed farms could provide valuable habitats for coastal fish species, according to new research

Shellfish and seaweed farming offer potentially sustainable food sources and are increasingly recognised for their additional environmental benefits, but research into their value for fish populations is currently lacking. Researchers from the Marine Biological Association (MBA) and the University of Exeter teamed up to determine whether these aquaculture sites help or hinder fish abundance and … Read more