Plymouth scientist to undertake key marine role
6th September 2010
Plymouth Marine Laboratory's (PML’s) Dr Melanie Austen has
been appointed to the influential, non-executive position of Chief
Scientific Advisor to the Marine Management Organisation (MMO). Dr
Austen will provide a key link to the scientific community and its
research, enabling the MMO to make informed decisions on the
integration of marine planning, licensing, nature conservation and
fisheries management.
The MMO is the national champion of sustainable marine development
and was established earlier this year to deliver the Government's
vision for clean, healthy, safe, productive and biologically
diverse seas. Dr Austen will help ensure that the MMO has the
essential evidence base to balance economic, social, environmental
and commercial activities.
Dr Austen is Head of Science for Sea and Society at PML and has
been dealing with marine issues for 25 years and authored more than
60 academic papers. Her wide-ranging specialist experience includes
developing and leading marine research projects which combine
marine ecology with environmental economics. She said:
"I am delighted to be a part of such a groundbreaking initiative.
The MMO will make a significant difference to the sustainable
development of our seas, and I am honoured to be able to contribute
to this work.”
Prof Stephen de Mora, Chief Executive of PML, said:
"The MMO's decision to appoint Dr Austen
reflects her significant international and national scientific and
academic reputation. We at PML are very excited about the creation
of the MMO and the opportunity it presents to establish an
integrated marine regime.”
Chris Parry, Chair of the MMO, said:
“As the national champion of sustainable development in our
marine and coastal area, the MMO will benefit greatly from Dr
Austen’s wealth of experience and expertise. She will be providing
independent, objective advice to ensure we have access to
leading-edge research, knowledge and data across all
disciplines.”