Canadian scientists have a vast amount of ocean real estate to explore and limited access to the vessels that can get them there. The Marine Environmental Observation, Prediction and Response Network of Centres of Excellence (MEOPAR) is developing a solution to this challenge called the Modular Ocean Research Infrastructure (MORI). MORI is an alternative pathway to sophisticated vessel-based research and an opportunity for scientists and the private sector to work together to advance our understanding of the ocean.

Under the leadership of MEOPAR, and with support from Irving Shipbuilding Inc. and enabled through COVE, the MORI project brings together industry, academia and government to build a modular system of transportable, interoperable laboratories and research infrastructure.

This month’s Ocean Connector features Bridget Graham (Operations Manager at MEOPAR) moderating a panel discussion with Dr. Doug Wallace (Scientific Director at MEOPAR), Dylan Wells (General Manager at Hawboldt Industries), and Tim Brownlow (Director of Government & Industry Relations at Atlantic Towing). The panel will discuss everything from the concept to national research and industry collaboration, the results from its first mission to the Scotian Shelf and Slope region as far as the Gulf Stream, and where the sea-going research infrastructure is off to next.