There is an imperative to measure the ocean if we are to chart a sustainable future on this planet, and this demands a modern, versatile and resilient research infrastructure. The business case for this infrastructure needs to be science requirements driven, understanding that is being developed through the FMRI Science Requirements Framework (SRF) process. An SRF document is being developed that will capture future science outcomes and ambition centred around Marine Science 'Grand Challenges' and the capability that is required to enable Marine Science in 2040.

The SRF will be a living document that is used to inform key decisions throughout the life of the FMRI programme. The initial version will provide high-level guidance on the scope and ambition of UK future marine science interests and broad guidance to decision-makers on the mix of capability required to meet those requirements. This will inform the targeting of investment, and act to guide and focus discussions on national and international partnerships. A process of continuous review and iteration will then run alongside the FMRI scoping, design and implementation phases to shape the detailed design and delivery of the capability.

"FMRI provides a unique opportunity to take a holistic and forward-looking approach to guiding the UK’s future investment in marine research infrastructure to maximise science impact and science value for investment by combining observations and digital tools in new and innovative ways."

Dr Katy Hill, FMRI Lead Scientist

SRF Structure

PART I:  Strategic Overview – National and International Context  

1. Introduction  

2. UK Marine Science in 2024

3. Global Developments and Best Practice  

PART II: Science Requirements and the Grand Challenges  

4. The Science Requirements Framework: Approach to Identifying Requirements  

5. Grand Challenge: The Ocean in a Changing Climate  

6. Grand Challenge: Biodiversity and Ocean Health  

7. Grand Challenge: Marine Pollution – Its Sources, Distribution and Solutions  

8. Grand Challenge: Strengthening Resilience to Natural Hazards and Extreme Events  

9. Grand Challenge: Sustainable Blue Economy and Ecosystem Services  

PART III: Synthesis and Recommendations  

10. Cross Cutting Research Themes and Issues  

11. Synthesis of Requirements (variables, scales and processes)

12. General Capability Requirements (observation infrastructure; digital infrastructure; people, skills and partnerships)

13. Enabling Marine Science in 2040: Recommendations and a Pathway Forward.

Drafts and Comment

First draft versions of Chapters 4 to 10 of the SRF are now available and can be downloaded in PDF format. Comments received in the Feedback Form by Friday 20th September will be incorporated into the full draft).

Open the Feedback Form (MS Forms) →