DNA reveals the past and future of coral reefs
New DNA techniques are being used to understand how coral reacted to the end of the last ice age in order to better predict how they will cope with current changes to the climate. James Cook Univer
From 2005 to 2022, the main node of the ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies was headquartered at James Cook University in Townsville, Queensland (Australia)
This talk is the first of three on parachute science being organized by the ARC CoE Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (JEDI) committee.
Abstract
Parachute science is the practice whereby international scientists conduct fieldwork in other nations, and then complete the research in their home country without any further effective communication and engagement with others from that nation. It creates dependency on external expertise, does not address local research needs, and hinders local research efforts. This talk is going to explore different forms of parachute science across research fields, placing a particular emphasis on coral reef research. This will be followed by a discussion on actions relevant to researchers, scientific publishers, academic institutions and research funders that can help eradicate parachute science practices, and conclude by focusing on successful examples of truly collaborative marine research initiatives.
Biography:
Paris Stefanoudis is a senior postdoctoral researcher at the University of Oxford, working with the UK-based NGO Nekton. His research has a marine biodiversity and conservation focus, having worked in projects focusing on the High Seas, Bermuda, Seychelles, Comoros and the wider Western Indian Ocean region. He has experience working with nations to ensure research is co-designed and co-produced, so as to benefit all parties involved and produce policy-relevant outcomes. He is passionate about raising ocean awareness, and has contributed to various media communications (Associated Press, Sky News, CGTN, BBC World) and to public outreach and training programmes (Encounter Edu, Oxford Sparks).
New DNA techniques are being used to understand how coral reacted to the end of the last ice age in order to better predict how they will cope with current changes to the climate. James Cook Univer
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