Canadian Ocean Science

The Canadian Consortium of Ocean Research Universities (CCORU) has asked the Council of Canadian Academies to undertake an expert assessment of ocean science, focusing on the environmental, economic and social opportunities, and societal challenges, in relation to Canada’s oceans.  

Background

Canada’s oceans are undergoing unprecedented changes and are being stressed in numerous ways, which has profound implications for future development opportunities and also creates societal challenges. Ocean science problems are complex and addressing them will require a high degree of coordination among various scientific institutions and technology hubs.

The Council’s work in this area will come in two phases. In the preparatory phase, the Council will help to determine the priority research questions identified by Canadian oceans experts from all sectors that could form the basis for a research plan for Canada’s oceans. This will be achieved through an expert-based workshop. 

During the second phase of this project an expert panel will be convened to provide an independent, evidence-based assessment of the needs of ocean science. The panel will also provide an overview of the state of Canadian ocean science, including the infrastructure, technology development, and commercialization capacity necessary to implement this research plan. This expert assessment will include the identification of best practices regarding strategic investments and models of governance to establish strategies for action.

The Canadian Consortium of Ocean Research Universities includes: Dalhousie University, Université du Québec à Rimouski (UQAR), Université Laval, University of British Columbia, University of Victoria, Memorial University, University of Prince Edward Island, University of New Brunswick, and the University of Manitoba.

Core Group of Experts on Priority Research Questions for Canadian Ocean Science

During Phase 1 of the Canadian Ocean Science Assessment a Core Group of 20 Canadian ocean experts from academia, public sector, industry and civil society, will determine the priority research questions for Canadian ocean science. The Core Group represents the entire field of ocean science including both producers and primary users of ocean science. For a complete list of core group members visit the Core Group of Experts on Priority Research Questions for Canadian Ocean Science page.

For further information, please contact:

Christina Stachulak, Senior Program Director at 613-567-5000 ext. 259 or Christina.stachulak@scienceadvice.ca