Identifying and addressing the challenges of early-career ocean professionals during the MSEAS conference

Abstract In recent years, there has been a growing international effort to address the challenges related to the sustainable use of the ocean. To this end, policy-relevant socio-ecological systems research has been evolving to tackle complex, multi-dimensional problems in marine science and ocean policy. The associated transformation of research practices introduces new challenges in contemporary scientific work, particularly for early-career ocean professionals (ECOPs). This paper explores three key challenges raised by ECOPs during the Marine Socio-Ecological Systems (MSEAS) symposium, along with insights gained from discussions with advanced career researchers working in international organizations such as PICES, ICES, IPBES, IPOS, and FAO. The first challenge addresses working in interdisciplinary research; the second relates to the development of communication skills; the third emphasizes the importance of international collaboration across countries and research disciplines, and integration into international organizations and processes. These challenges are acknowledged by the international organizations, and efforts are underway to better incorporate ECOPs into existing frameworks and institutions. Additionally, the discussions gave practical advice to ECOPs, such as clarifying professional objectives early in one’s career in order to better navigate marine socio-ecological research and to step outside of one’s comfort zone while being aware of the risks.