Our People – Hazem Nagy

The Marine Institute celebrates the diversity of its people. In the video animations and Q&A profile, our people share their study and career paths, the work they do at the Marine Institute and the important contribution their work delivers.

Hazem Nagy
Post-Doctoral Researcher, Ocean, Climate and Information Services
Marine Institute

What is your current role at the Marine Institute and what's involved in your daily work?
I work in the Ocean Modelling Services Team, and develop hydrodynamic models and carry out simulations to support the Marine Institute's operational modelling systems. A number of hydrodynamic models are run at the Marine Institute to produce short range forecasts and to build up a database of modelled data to support marine research

I also develop models and model-based products which support marine authorities in Ireland. We also carry out climate projection simulations for Irish waters, and these information products and services are provided to a range of Irish stakeholders.

I am also involved in a number of EU research projects, including iFADO (Innovation of Atlantic Deep Ocean) and CoClime (Co-development of Climate Services for adaption to changing marine ecosystems). I liaise closely with international partners on these projects to develop ocean models and tools. We work together to meet the project objectives and the results are published in scientific literatures.

What did you study and why?
I hold a PhD in Physical Oceanography (Ocean Modelling), an MSc in Physical Oceanography, and a BSc in Physical Oceanography. I grew up in Alexandria, Egypt, a historical cosmopolitan coastal city. I was raised to appreciate marine life, geography, and history. As a result, I determined that studying oceanography, particularly physical oceanography, would be the best path for my career. I enjoy my job and the path I've chosen for myself.

What are you interests and passions?
I enjoy all types of marine sports and I usually swim. I have also done scuba diving in the Red Sea. I enjoy reading about history and geography.

What is the best thing about working in the Marine Institute? What do you enjoy most about your job?
The best thing about the Marine Institute is that everyone shares a common vision for marine research and is committed to the mission. I am satisfied with my role and responsibilities at the Marine Institute as I'm working with my field as an Ocean Modeller. My job provides me with opportunities for training in both technical and personal development areas, such as marine research. With two children, I've always been able to maintain a reasonable work-life balance so I don't feel like I'm jeopardizing my career growth or guilty about not spending more time with my family.

What is something you think everyone should know about the ocean?
The oceans of the Earth are largely unexplored. This makes it difficult for scientists, and thus the average citizen, to fully comprehend this powerful and vital resource. Citizens must understand their impact on the ocean as well as the ocean's impact on them—this is known as ocean literacy.

ENDS