Twenty-four Master's students at University College Dublin (UCD) participated in this year's highly anticipated INFOMAR (Integrated Mapping for the Sustainable Development of Irelands' Marine Resource) seabed mapping training modules. Designed to equip the next generation of marine scientists with both practical skills and theoretical knowledge, the two modules were delivered through a collaborative effort between Geological Survey Ireland, The Marine Institute, the UCD School of Geography, and the Strategic Marine Alliance for Research and Training (SMART) programme. The training provides a unique opportunity for students to engage with cutting-edge marine science and technology.
The INFOMAR Marine Geodata Science module ran from early September through November, combining lectures, tutorials, and workshops to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of seabed mapping and its applications. The curriculum covered topics such as Earth observation, coastal mapping, marine seismic surveying, and cloud computing, while utilizing case studies from Ireland and abroad to highlight the critical role of marine science in sustainable development and the blue economy.
The classroom-based learning establishes a strong foundation for the subsequent offshore training, educating the students with the theoretical knowledge and analytical skills needed to understand and apply marine survey techniques. By delving into seabed mapping methods and the use of acoustic and optical technologies to image and analyze the seafloor, students are well-prepared to confidently engage with the practical, hands-on aspects of the Marine and Survey Data module taking place on board the RV Tom Crean. Building on the first module, this second module allows students to apply classroom concepts in real-life scenarios on board the research vessel, using advanced survey equipment and industry-standard software.
To complement the classroom module, INFOMAR released a series of weekly educational infographics on its social media channels throughout the semester. This campaign successfully engaged audiences and raised awareness about the programme's content and objectives.
The INFOMAR Marine and Survey Data module featured practical offshore training aboard Ireland's cutting-edge research vessel, the R.V. Tom Crean offshore Cork. To accommodate this year's largest cohort of UCD students, two separate 2-day training courses were conducted, offering participants a fully immersive experience of real-world survey operations.
Students gained hands-on experience with advanced survey equipment, including multibeam echosounder systems and seabed sampling tools. Working alongside Geological Survey Ireland, the Marine Institute, and SMART scientists, the students applied their knowledge in tasks such as geophysical data collection, benthic species analysis, and ground-truthing using drop cameras. They also utilized industry-standard software, such as Qinsy, Qimera, and Fledermaus, for data acquisition, processing, and visualization. This practical training, made possible through the generous sponsorship provided by QPS, equipped students with valuable skills in acquiring, processing, and visualizing seabed mapping data.
Interactive demonstrations on the first day introduced students to the equipment and methods, while the second day allowed them to take leadership roles in survey planning and execution. This practical training equipped them with the technical skills and confidence needed to pursue careers in the marine sector.
The 2024 INFOMAR module concluded with a highly engaging Careers Session on the UCD campus. MSc students attended presentations by INFOMAR staff, who shared their expertise and personal insights into the marine science field. The session also featured Green Rebel offshore survey specialists, who highlighted their work in marine geophysical and oceanographic data applications. They showcased how they acquire, process, and analyze data to support optimal decision-making for offshore wind farm development. An interactive discussion followed, giving students the opportunity to ask questions and explore the diverse career opportunities within this dynamic and rapidly evolving sector.
This year's modules reflect the ongoing commitment to fostering marine education and ensuring students have the knowledge and skillset needed to contribute to Ireland's marine sector. INFOMAR is funded by the Department of Environment, Climate, and Communications (DECC) and the collaboration between Geological Survey Ireland, the Marine Institute, UCD, and SMART exemplifies the importance of partnership in delivering high-quality, impactful training. These efforts align with national goals, including the Climate Action Plan 2024, Climate Action Plan 2024 by promoting awareness of Ireland's marine resources and preparing graduates to address the challenges and opportunities of the sustainable blue economy.
The INFOMAR team would like to thank everyone involved in making this year's training modules a positive experience for everyone, from the enthusiastic students at the UCD School of Geography to the faculty staff and the team at Green Rebel. Your contributions have ensured a valuable and productive experience for all. We also extend a special thanks to Research Vessel Operations at the Marine Institute and the crew of the R.V. Tom Crean for facilitating the offshore surveys and providing the students with invaluable learning opportunities. These contributions continue to make this collaboration a rewarding and impactful initiative. We look forward to building on this success in the years to come, inspiring even more students and further advancing marine science education and training.
INFOMAR, Ireland's national seabed mapping programme, is funded by the Department of Environment, Climate, and Communications (DECC). It is jointly managed by Geological Survey Ireland and the Marine Institute with the goal of fully mapping Ireland's territorial waters for the sustainable development of the country's marine resources.