The Future Marine Research Infrastructure (FMRI) programme is delighted to share its latest report: ‘A UK Science Requirements Framework for Future Marine Research Infrastructure’. This framework sets out the key scientific questions that will shape the future of UK marine research and has been developed in close collaboration with experts from across the marine science community.

Understanding the key drivers behind future scientific observation is a crucial step in the FMRI programme. This framework lays the groundwork for the next phase: designing a future marine research infrastructure for the UK that can support the science needed to address urgent environmental challenges.

The framework was designed to ensure that future marine research infrastructure is:

  • Forward looking
  • Inclusive of important scientific topics, applications and subject areas
  • Focused on scientific impact

Centred on five Marine Science Grand Challenges, this framework defines the future outcomes and infrastructure needed to enable world-class marine science. As a living document, it will evolve alongside the FMRI programme - informing its scoping, design, and implementation at every stage.

Marine Science Grand Challenges

  • The role of the ocean in a changing climate
  • Protecting biodiversity and ocean health
  • Marine pollution: its sources, distribution and solutions
  • Strengthening resilience to natural hazards and extreme events
  • Sustainable blue economy and ecosystem services

A four-page summary of the Science Requirements Framework will be available in September.

The FMRI programme team warmly invites members of the UK marine research community to an online presentation of this report with Lead Author, Professor Alex Rogers, and an opportunity to ask questions on Monday 22 September at 10.00am (UK time).  


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Download the report.