Cefas announces new leadership roles in international marine science body, ICES
7 November 2024
Cefas is proud to announce its continued leadership within the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) through two significant appointments that strengthen its role in marine science and policy.
ICES, an intergovernmental organisation founded to provide impartial, science-based advice on marine ecosystems and sustainable use of ocean resources, plays a critical role in meeting societal and environmental needs globally.
Carl O’Brien CBE, Cefas and Defra’s Chief Fisheries Science Adviser, has been named President of ICES, effective November 1, 2024. Meanwhile, Cefas Science Director Sally Songer has stepped into Carl’s former role as the UK Delegate, becoming one of the first female UK Delegates in ICES’ history.
Carl has been involved with ICES since 1995 and has served as the UK Delegate since 2012. His three-year term as ICES President will focus on advancing scientific collaboration and diversity within the organisation.
On his appointment, Carl O'Brien said:
“It is a great honour to serve ICES as its President. I am grateful to the ICES’ community and its network for training me in fisheries and marine science and advice. I am strongly supportive of ICES and its place in the development of talented scientists”.
In his role, Carl will continue to chair the Council Subgroup on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (CSGDEI), encouraging career development for emerging scientists across ICES and its partner organisations. His presidency highlights the UK’s longstanding commitment to ICES and the important role that scientists across the UK’s Devolved Administrations and ICES’ partner nations have played in contributing to our understanding of marine ecosystems.
“The UK has a long-running history with ICES as a founding member at its inception in 1902. UK scientists have been key contributors to ICES, and Cefas will continue to play a leading role.”
On her appointment, Sally Songer said:
“I’m incredibly proud to take on this responsibility as Carl steps into his new role. Being the first female UK Delegate is a big achievement, and I hope it will contribute to greater equity within ICES. I look forward to continuing collaboration with the Council Subgroup on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. For Cefas, continuing to have a UK Delegate from our organisation will allow us to maintain this position of influence within ICES and ensure that we have input into future direction.””
News
Further Reading
