Plymouth University scientist to lead prestigious international marine organisation

An ocean scientist at Plymouth University’s Marine Institute has been appointed to the head of the global body that coordinates and promotes international marine research activities. Professor Peter Burkill, a renowned expert in plankton and its role in the ecosystem, is to serve as President at the Scientific Committee on Oceanic Research (SCOR) for the next four years. In his role, Peter will be required to oversee the non-governmental organisation’s Executive Committee and regularly represent it at international meetings with governments and policy-makers. Founded in 1957, SCOR has national committees in 32 countries, and typically works to plan and coordinate large-scale, 10-year, international ocean research programmes that cross over a number of different subjects and issues. It plays an important role in building the capacity for marine science in developing countries, and acts as an important advisory body to intergovernmental bodies on marine matters. Peter said: “SCOR is a special organisation built upon the best scientific understanding, internationally recognised and highly regarded by countries and organisations that carry out marine and maritime activities. “SCOR is run by ocean scientists independent of governments or other organisations, to serve the global ocean scientific community.