Dr Fiona Grant of the Marine Institute, Ireland, appointed as Chair of the European Marine Board
Dr Fiona Grant, Head of International Programmes, Marine Institute, has been appointed as Chair of the European Marine Board (EMB). Dr Grant brings with her a wealth of experience and expertise in marine research and policy, making her an ideal candidate to lead the EMB in its mission to advance marine science and foster collaboration across Europe and beyond.
With over two decades of dedicated service in the field of marine science, Dr Grant has established herself as a prominent figure in the global maritime community. Her leadership roles within the Marine Institute, including her most recent position as Head of International Programmes, have seen her spearhead numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing our understanding of the ocean and promoting sustainable practices for their conservation. In addition, Fiona is a actively involved in the Marine Institute’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion group, where she works with colleagues across the Marine Institute to ensure an inclusive work environment, where employees can be themselves, are valued for their differences, and are supported to work at their best.
In her new role as Chair of the European Marine Board, Fiona will play a pivotal role in guiding the strategic direction of the organisation, championing its commitment to excellence in marine research, policy advice, and outreach. With pressing challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and marine pollution threatening our ocean, her leadership will be instrumental in driving collaborative efforts to address these issues and ensure the long-term health and sustainability of our marine ecosystems.
Commenting on her appointment, Dr Fiona Grant expressed her gratitude and enthusiasm for the opportunity to lead the European Marine Board. "I am deeply honoured to take on the role of Chair and to work alongside the esteemed members of the EMB in advancing our shared goals for the benefit of our ocean and future generations," she stated. "Together, we will strive to harness the collective expertise and resources of the European marine community to address the challenges facing our ocean and unlock their full potential for the benefit of society. I hope this also encourages other women to have the confidence to put their names forward for positions such as the Chair of the European Marine Board due to the experience and perspectives females can bring to the role."
Congratulating Fiona on here appointment, Niall McDonough, Director of Policy, Innovation and Research Support Services, Marine Institute said: “The appointment of our colleague Fiona Grant as Chair of the European Marine Board reflects the calibre of our people in the Marine Institute. Her dedication to advancing marine science and fostering international collaboration aligns perfectly with the EMB's objectives. With her vision, passion, and proven track record of achievement, she is poised to lead the EMB to new heights of excellence and impact in the years to come.”
Commenting on her appointment, Dr Sheila Heymans, the Executive Director of the European Marine Board said: “Fiona is a wonderful example of why women should be encouraged to put themselves forward for these positions. We at the Secretariat are very happy to have Fiona as our first Female Chair and look forward to working closely with her over the next 3- 5 years.”
In her new position as Chair of the European Marine Board, Fiona Grant will play a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction of marine research in Europe. She will lead efforts to address pressing challenges facing our ocean, including climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable resource management. Under her guidance, the EMB will continue to facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration, foresight exercises, support policy development, promote gender equality and promote the translation of scientific knowledge into actionable solutions.
For more information, please contact:
Sheila Byrnes, Marine Institute e. sheila.byrnes@marine.ie m. +353 (0)87 815 5271
Sinéad Coyne, Marine Institute e. sinead.coyne@marine.ie m. +353 (0)87 947 7090
Notes to Editor:
About the Marine Institute
The Marine Institute provides government, public agencies, and the maritime industry with a range of scientific, advisory, and economic development services that inform policy-making, regulation, and the sustainable management and growth of Ireland’s marine resources. The Institute undertakes, coordinates, and promotes marine research and development, which is essential to achieving a sustainable ocean economy, protecting ecosystems, and inspiring a shared understanding of the ocean. www.marine.ie
About the European Marine Board (EMB):
The European Marine Board (EMB) is a leading European think tank in marine science policy and research. Established in 1995, the EMB provides a platform for marine scientists and policymakers to collaborate on key issues facing Europe's ocean. Through its strategic initiatives, publications, and outreach efforts, the EMB strives to promote sustainable ocean governance and support evidence-based decision-making.