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IMBeR Relevant Sessions at OSM 2026

Sessions chaired/co-chaired by IMBeR participants or linked to IMBeR science teams

CM003 - Biogeochemical and Ecological Insights for Evaluation of Marine Carbon Dioxide Removal (mCDR)

CB008 - Nutrients as Drivers of Change in Polar Coastal Ecosystems

CB010 - Trait development and resilience of aquatic microbial communities to anthropogenic stressors in coastal oceans- a focus on the Global South

CB011 - Under Pressure: Multistressor Impacts on Coastal Vegetation and Greenhouse Gas Dynamics

F002 - Harnessing Fisheries Oceanography from Nowcasts to Climate Projections for Sustainable and Resilient Fisheries

HE010 - Pelagic ecosystems and nutrient cycles in a changing Southern Ocean

ME015 - Top Predators as Ecosystem Sentinels: A Novel Tool for Proactive Management

ME017 - Trait-Based Approaches to Biodiversity-Ecosystem Function and Biogeographic Patterns

OB004 - Animal-mediated Carbon Pathways: The Role of Metazoans in the Biological Carbon Pump

OB008 - Carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide cycling from the coast to the deep ocean

OB025 - Respiration in the Mesopelagic Ocean: Reconciling ecological, biogeochemical and model estimates

PI008 - Ocean Pathways: Physical and Biogeochemical Connectivity Across Subtropical and Polar Ocean Systems

TH43A - Broadening the Ocean Science Workforce for a More Equitable, Inclusive, and Engaged Community (IMECaN Town Hall session)

SKLEC-Related Sessions at OSM 2026

Sessions chaired/co-chaired by researchers affiliated with State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research (SKLEC) - host of the IMBeR IPO

- or related to SKLEC-led projects

CB004 - Mapping, Monitoring, and Modelling Greenhouse Gas(GHG) Fluxes in Coastal habitats to Advance Blue Carbon Science

CM008 - The Science of Current and Emerging Blue Carbon Ecosystems

CP010 - Physical-Sedimentological-Ecological Coupled Dynamics in Turbid Estuary-Marginal Sea Continuum

HC012 - Plastics in the aquatic environment

Exhibiting at OSM 2026 New

SCOR' Booth, Booth Number - No. 97

SKLEC's Booth, Booth Number - No. 140

We look forward to seeing you there!

This month’s Editor Picks highlight advances across marine social–ecological systems, biogeochemistry, and climate impacts. Featured studies map the social and cultural dimensions of fishing communities, introduce a physically consistent deep learning framework for regional ocean emulation, and show how heavily silicified diatoms shape biogenic silica deposition. New work examines pulse-driven ecosystem–atmosphere fluxes, reveals the multifunctionality of alkaline phosphatases in the marine phosphorus cycle, and quantifies substantial terrestrial dissolved organic carbon in the central Arctic Ocean. Additional studies document deep-reaching compound ocean state changes over the past six decades and outline global recommendations for seafloor macrolitter monitoring.



If you have papers or reports you would like to share in future issues, please feel free to send the information to imber@ecnu.edu.cn.

Putting fishing communities on the map in ICES ecoregions

Authors: M. Kraan, A. Himes-Cornell, D. Pedreschi, A. Motova, K. G. Hamon, C. Pita, M. Ballesteros, F. Barz, T. Fonseca, A. García-De-Vinuesa, A. Guitierrez, E. Jackson, M. E. Lam, K. Norman, S. Seixas, N. A. Steins

Publisher: ICES Journal of Marine Science

This paper highlights the importance of identifying fishing communities for fisheries and ecosystem-based management, which often focuses on fleets and ecological impacts rather than on the communities where fishers live and land their catches. Fishing communities are key to understanding the broader impacts and benefits of fishing, as they support many livelihoods in fleet and trade-related activities. Recognizing these communities, allows for better data collection, analysis, and informed policy-making. ICES WGSOCIAL developed a method to identify fishing communities across ICES ecoregions, first applied in the Celtic Seas and North Sea ecosystem overviews. These overviews describe ecosystems, identify human pressures, and assess their impact. Using fishing ports as proxies, our method links socio-economic indicators (e.g. landings value) to communities. We identify limitations to our methods and explore the complexities of defining a ‘fishing community’ due to its dynamic, multidimensional nature. We discuss next steps for improving our mapping approach and deepening our understanding of the social, cultural, and economic value of fishing, and why these matter for applied marine science in support of policy and management.

Click to read the full paper

Figure 1. Conceptual model of the social and cultural landscape of fishing communities. Definitions in Table 1. Source: ICES 2021.

Simultaneous emulation and downscaling with

physically consistent deep learning-based regional ocean emulators

Authors: L. Lupin-Jimenez, M. Darman, S. Hazarika, T. Wu, M. Gray, R. He, A. Wong, A. Chattopadhyay

Journal: Journal of Geophysical Research: Machine Learning and Computation

Building upon recent advancements in AI-driven atmospheric emulation, we present a novel framework for AI-based ocean emulation, downscaling, and bias correction, with a specific focus on high-resolution modeling of the regional ocean in the Gulf of Mexico. Emulating regional ocean dynamics poses distinct challenges due to intricate bathymetry, complex lateral boundary conditions, and inherent limitations of deep learning models, including instability and the potential for hallucinations. In this study, we introduce a deep learning framework that autoregressively integrates ocean surface variables at 8 km spatial resolution over the Gulf of Mexico, maintaining physical consistency over decadal time scales. Simultaneously, the framework downscales and bias-corrects the outputs to 4 km resolution using a physics-informed generative model. Our approach demonstrates short-term predictive skill comparable to high-resolution physics-based simulations, while also accurately capturing long-term statistical properties, including temporal mean and variability.

Click to read the full paper

Figure 2. Example snapshot for GLORYS low-resolution and CNAPS high-resolution states, for SSH, SSU, and SSV, for a single time. Large scale structures are similar, but there are differences between the fields between each of the reanalysis products. Below, distributions for GLORYS LR and CNAPS HR data sets, for SSH, SSU, and SSV.

Increased heavily silicified diatoms modulate

the biogenic silica deposition in the Yellow Sea

Authors: M. He, H. Zhou, X. Wang, X. Dong, Y. Wang, D. Liu

Journal: Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences

Diatoms are the most important organisms driving the marine biogenic silica (bSi) cycle, but their biomass and species composition have undergone substantial changes in the modern ocean. How their variations affect the marine bSi cycling remains unclear. Here, we estimated the seasonal relationship between diatom assemblages and bSi content, using the data from the sediment trap, in situ observations, and surface sediments in the Yellow Sea. Monthly sediment trap data revealed a significantly positive correlation between the proportion of heavily silicified diatom Paralia sulcata and bSi content, indicating the contribution of diatom silicification to bSi production. Seasonal observations revealed higher bSi content and burial efficiency in summer (1.13 ± 0.38%, 57.4 ± 25.7%) than in spring (0.86 ± 0.17%, 25.3 ± 5.2%), although spring diatom concentrations are 1.5 to 2 times higher. In contrast to spring hydrodynamic conditions, which can enhance the vertical mixing and favor bSi recycling, summer stratification constrains abundant P. sulcata and other diatoms living below the mixed layer. This not only promotes bSi production but also facilitates their deposition and burial in sediments. The results provide important insights into the effects of diatom species shifts on bSi cycling and indicate that the seasonal dominance of heavily silicified species in the diatom community, associated with hydrodynamic sedimentary conditions, could greatly affect the bSi cycling in the modern ocean.



Click to read the full paper

Major terrestrial contribution to

the dissolved organic carbon budget in the Arctic Ocean

Authors: X. Kong, O. J. Lechtenfeld, J. M. Kaesler, M. A. Granskog, C. A. Stedmon, M. Graeve, B. P. Koch

Journal: Nature Geoscience

Arctic warming is expected to increase the terrestrial dissolved organic carbon flux into the central Arctic Ocean, altering biogeochemical cycling by modulating light attenuation, microbial respiration and carbon dioxide release. Quantifying terrestrial inputs remains challenging due to biases in common proxies and uncertainties in endmember characteristics, which complicate traditional mixing models, introducing uncertainties in predicting climate change impacts. Here we present a high-resolution mass spectrometric approach allowing direct analysis of original seawater, tracing and quantifying terrestrial contributions to dissolved organic carbon. Terrestrial dissolved organic carbon in the central Arctic Ocean contributed at least 0.97 ± 0.05 PgC (16.4%) to the dissolved organic carbon inventory of 5.93 ± 0.09 PgC, including 15.0% in deep water (7.9 ± 0.4 µmol l⁻¹). In surface water within the Transpolar Drift, the average terrestrial dissolved organic carbon concentrations were 117% higher (31.5 ± 4.8 µmol l⁻¹) than outside the Transpolar Drift (14.5 ± 1.0 µmol l⁻¹). The terrestrial dissolved organic matter is compositionally distinct, being more aromatic, hydrophobic and nitrogen-poor than marine sources. This approach provides chemical information that reflects changes in organic matter sources and bioavailability, both of which are central to understanding future climatic impacts on Arctic biogeochemical cycles.

Click to read the full paper

Figure 5. Study area of the MOSAiC expedition.

Observed large-scale and deep-reaching

compound ocean state changes over the past 60 years

Authors: Z. Tan, K. von Schuckmann, S. Speich, L. Bopp, J. Zhu, L. Cheng

Journal: Nature Climate Change

Multiple climate-related stressors affect the ocean, including warming, acidification, deoxygenation and variations in salinity, with profound effects on Earth system cycles, marine ecosystems and human well-being. Nevertheless, a global perspective on the combined impacts of these changes on both surface and subsurface ocean conditions remains unclear. Here, applying a time-of-emergence methodology to observed physical and biogeochemical variables, collectively referred to as compound climatic impact-drivers, we show individual and compound ocean state changes have become increasingly prominent globally over the past 60 years. In particular, observations show the simultaneous emergence of compound climatic impact-drivers in regions spanning the subtropical and tropical Atlantic, the subtropical Pacific, the Arabian Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. We highlight extensive exposure of different ocean layers to compound emergence, characterized by significant intensity, duration and magnitude. These results provide a comprehensive framework and perspective to illustrate the ocean’s vulnerability to pervasive and interconnected changes in a warming climate.

Click to read the full paper

Figure 6. The conceptual framework of different multivariate interactions of the emergence of single and compound (double, triple) CIDs.

Out of sight, but not out of mind:

Key issues regarding seafloor macrolitter monitoring

Authors: G. Hanke, M. Canals, R. Nakajima, M. Bergmann, F. Galgani, D. Li, G. Papatheodorou, C. K. Pham, D. J. Amon, M. Angiolillo, L. Buhl-Mortensen, A. Cau, P. Consoli, J. S. Davies, C. Dominguez-Carrió, C. M. Duarte, A. Giorgetti, B. E. Grøsvik, L. Gutow, V. A. I. Huvenne, C. Ioakeimidis, V. Komorin, G. Liu, L. Lundsten, I. Makarenko, A. Martynova, M. E. Molina Jack, T. W. Nattkemper, A. P. Palacz, M. Palma, M. Pierdomenico, M. Pogojeva, M. Ruiz, L. F. Ruiz-Orejón, J. Russell, X. Shan, M. Valdenegro-Toro, M. Vinci, N. Wei, L. C. Woodall, S. Zhang

Journal: Marine Pollution Bulletin

Following a number of meetings devoted to knowledge sharing, identification of key issues, and discussing the best ways to move forward, a wide international expert community is now able to provide recommendations regarding the monitoring of seafloor macrolitter through observation and imaging. As the seafloor constitutes a major sink for marine litter including plastics, it is important to acquire robust and extensive data on litter distribution, abundance, types and size ranges across marine habitats. This should be done through widely agreed, harmonised, and non-destructive methods encompassing advanced technologies. Training and capacity building are essential elements in this endeavour. Both new and legacy imagery are needed to establish baseline assessments and trends. Informing policy-making is indispensable for effective action through upstream and targeted measures, with seafloor macrolitter (and megalitter) being a vital part of the evidence base for global mitigation measures.



 Click to read the full paper

Figure 7. Graphical abstract.

Managing Rising Risks:

Climate-Resilient Shorelines for Canada

Authors: A. Bonada, K. Bakos

Source: Intact Centre on Climate Adaptation, Faculty of Environment, University of Waterloo

Canada’s shorelines are facing growing risks from climate change, erosion, and development. This new national guidance, developed for the Standards Council of Canada, outlines how regional shoreline management can help communities plan and adapt more effectively across entire coastal and freshwater systems. It presents nine steps in a risk management process to guide the integration of nature-based solutions, coordinated planning, and consistent policy frameworks that protect people, property, and ecosystems while preserving the natural character of our shores.



Click to read the full paper

Using Math to Protect Fish in the Ocean

Authors: M. G. Pennino, F. Izquierdo, M. Cousido-Rocha, D. J. Nachón, A. Paz, M. Ballesteros, D. Bamio, S. Cerviño

Journal: Frontiers for Young Minds

Have you ever wondered how scientists count fish in the ocean? Fish are always moving, and the ocean is huge, so counting them is not easy! Scientists use stock assessments, a method that gathers clues such as how many fish are caught by fishing boats, how many are seen in surveys, and how fast fish grow. Using math and computer models, scientists predict how fish populations will change in the future. If too many fish are caught, there might not be enough left to reproduce, which is called overfishing. Stock assessments help managers decide how many fish can be safely caught. Scientists also protect special areas where fish lay eggs to help their numbers grow. By understanding stock assessments, we can help keep fish in the ocean for future generations. Thanks to ongoing work of scientists, we can enjoy fish today while making sure there are plenty left for tomorrow.



Click to read the full paper

Figure 8. In step 1 of a stock assessment, scientists collect data on fish caught by commercial fishing boats, such as how many fish were caught and the length and width of each fish. In step 2, they enter the data into computer models that can estimate fish populations (the dots represent model results) and figure out how many fish should be caught the next year. In step 3, scientists give decision makers advice based on the results of the model, to help set fishing rules and keep fish populations healthy.

Events, Webinars and Conferences

Information shared by our contacts:

• Pathways Deep Dive Questionnaire Released.

• ECSA 61 - Bridging the gap between science and policy in estuarine and coastal marine biodiversity: the way forward, 24-27 August 2026, Square, Brussels, Belgium.
• Abstract submission system will open in January 2026

• American Geophysical Union (AGU) 25 Annual Meeting, 15-19 December 2025, New Orleans, USA. The early bird registration deadline is 6 November 2025.

• Coastal Futures 2026, 28–29 January 2026. London, UK. Early-bird tickets and programme now available.

• Ocean Science Meeting, 22 - 27 February 2026, Glasgow, Scotland. Early-bird registration by 14 Jan 2026.

• ASLO-SIL 2026 Joint Meeting: Aquatic Confluence – Science, People, Knowledge. 12–16 May 2026. Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The abstract submission deadline is 19 November.

• 7th World Conference on Marine Biodiversity, 17 - 20 November 2026, Bruges, Belgium. Submit abstract by 17 March 2026.

• UN Ocean Decade Conference 2027, 7–9 April 2027, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. More information will be released in due course.

Jobs and Opportunities

Information shared by our contacts:

• Postdoctoral Researcher in Microbial Oceanography and Multi-Omics Bioinformatics
• 2-year position to study marine microbial communities using multi-omic approaches; strong bioinformatics and programming (Python, R) skills required. Read more

• Anthropocene Coasts Recruiting Position: Associate Editors
• Applications will continue until the position is filled.
• Anthropocene Coasts is a Golden Open Access journal hosted by East China Normal University, and published by Springer. The journal publishes multidisciplinary research addressing the interaction of human activities with our estuaries and coasts. The journal has been selected for the "Outstanding Case of English-language University Journals of 2025".
• To help build on the success of Anthropocene Coasts and to expand the opportunities for international collaboration and contributions to the work of the journal, the journal is seeking more international Associate Editors. Read more

• Coastal Resilience Program Manager & Coastal Resilience Extension Specialist
• S.C. Sea Grant Consortium, Charleston, South Carolina
• Open until filled.

• Tenure-Track Faculty: Aquatic Ecotoxicology
• Division of Coastal Sciences (COA), School of Ocean Science and Engineering (SOSE), The University of Southern Mississippi
• Open until filled.

• Research Technician – Ocean Acidification Program
• Mote Marine Laboratory, Sarasota, Florida
• Open until filled.

• Funding Opportunity: U.S. National Science Foundation
• Collaborations in Artificial Intelligence and Geosciences (CAIG)
• February 4 2026 - Deadline date. Read more
• Biological Oceanography (BioOce)
• February 17 2026 - Target date. Read more
• Chemical Oceanography
• February 17 2026 - Target date. Read more

For more information on activities and opportunities for early-career researchers, you can check the IMECaN Newsletter. Read more

Turn Your Innovation into Global Impact

IMBeR Blue Innovation Alliance

We invite you to explore our first partner, Nanopure, and join the IMBeR Blue Innovation Alliance. We welcome other companies to join us in this global initiative, where together we can advance ocean sustainability, support cutting-edge marine research, and foster innovation to shape a more sustainable future for our oceans.

Capturing IMBeR: Share Your Photos and Memories

We invite all IMBeR participants - past and present - to contribute photos that capture the spirit of IMBeR’s activities over the years. Whether from fieldwork, meetings, workshops, summer schools, or community engagement events, your photos will help illustrate IMBeR’s impact and legacy.

Please send high-resolution images, along with a brief description and credit information, to imber@ecnu.edu.cn.

More jobs and opportunities for ECRs, please sign up for IMECaN newsletter

If you would like to put some recruitment information in the IMBeR monthly newsletter, please contact us through imber@ecnu.edu.cn.

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DISCLAIMER: The views expressed in the news articles, project updates, and publications featured in this newsletter are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the positions of IMBeR, its sponsors,

or the IMBeR International Project Office and its host institutions.

Chief Editor: Suhui QIAN

Editors: Fang ZUO, Kai QIN

Contact us

IMBeR International Project Office

State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University

500 Dongchuan Rd., Shanghai 200241, China