NEWS FROM THE MARINE INSTITUTE
A NEW MASTER OF MARINE STUDIES.... CASD: READY FOR FISHERIES FUTURE.... SEA CUCUMBERS.... THE OSSC EVOLUTION.... MEDITERRANEAN MYSTERIES.... THE FRONTIER OF OFFSHORE SIMULATION TRAINING.... WELCOMING NEW ASSOCIATE VP.... MI NEWS.... HEADING NORTH.... TRACING CAPELIN.... ALL IN THE FAMILY.... BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE
VP MESSAGE + EDITORIAL
VP MESSAGE GLENN BLACKWOOD, Vice-President Memorial University (Marine Institute)
Simulator Facility which will help prepare mariners for some of the toughest challenges they may face offshore. We are grateful to the Hibernia Management Development Company and our government partners for their support of this initiative. In addition, we are beginning the next $15 million phase of the marine base in Holyrood.
The Bridge is one way to keep in touch. In this issue, you’ll learn about some of the exciting research projects underway at the Institute. We’ll also highlight some of the interesting work being done by our students and alumni all over the world and showcase the enhancements being made at a number of our facilities.
Our focus on research continues to grow as well and our people are involved in a variety of important projects ranging from fisheries science to bioprocessing and marine safety, just to name a few.
We also shine the spotlight on the new Master of Marine Studies in Marine Spatial Planning and Management which will launch this fall. The first graduate level program of its kind in Canada, the Master of Marine Studies in Marine Spatial Planning and Management will provide graduates the opportunity to influence, lead and provide decision making support for the management and planning of increasingly busy coastal and ocean spaces.
We continue to be proud of the accomplishments of our students and alumni. Inside this magazine, you’ll meet ROV student Will Glatt, who has completed two work terms in the Mediterranean and alumnus Adam Furlong, whose MI connection runs deep into his family tree.
As Canada’s leader in education, training, applied research and industrial support for the ocean industries, the Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University continues to prepare the workforce of the future. We’re also proud to work with industry partners to equip mariners with the skills to meet the ever-changing dynamics of their work environment. To ensure we’re prepared to meet the needs of tomorrow, we’ve made some major investments in people and facilities across the Institute. In particular, both the Centre for Aquaculture and Seafood Development and Offshore Safety and Survival Centre have undergone major upgrades. We were also pleased to officially open the new Hibernia Offshore Operations
As one of the most respected centres of fisheries and marine education and training in the world, it is essential that MI conducts the research to ensure it is on the leading edge. Together, with some of the brightest and best minds, we’re building on our solid foundation — ensuring the Institute is creating the next wave.
EDITORIAL LESLIE EARLE, Public Relations & Communications Officer, Editor Staying connected — it keeps us social, informed and helps ensure we’re always learning. Whether you’re chatting with a faculty member or classmate, reading an article on our website or following us on Twitter, you’re connecting with MI.
It’s an exciting time at the Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University. We hope that you’ll enjoy this issue of The Bridge and welcome any feedback, comments or future story ideas you might have. In the meantime, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube for the latest MI news and information.
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CASD: ready for fisheries future / A three-year
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Sea cucumbers / Dr. Deepika Dave is using
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renovation program at the Centre for Aquaculture Development (CASD) is now complete.
an NSERC Discovery Grant to develop a bioprocessing strategy for the full use of sea cucumbers. The OSSC evolution / Upgrades are being made at the Offshore Safety and Survival Centre to enhance client experience and provide new opportunities.
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Mediterranean mysteries / ROV student,
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The frontier of offshore simulation training /
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A new master of marine studies / A new graduate program supports the management and planning of coastal and marine spaces.
Will Glatt explores ancient shipwrecks in the Mediterranean.
MI’s Centre for Marine Simulation is changing the face of offshore training thanks to the new Hibernia Offshore Operations Simulator. Welcoming new associate vice-president / Gary Bradshaw joins the Marine Institute as associate Vice-president (Administration and Finance). MI news / Marine Institute announcements, events and initiatives.
Heading north / The Marine Institute’s director of development and engagement has been appointed vice-present Indigenous with University of the Arctic (UArctic).
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Tracing capelin / Dr. Marie Clément and a team of collaborators are exploring the true origins of capelins’ return to Labrador’s northern coast.
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All in the family / For alumnus Adam Furlong,
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Save the date / Upcoming conferences and events.
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the concept of an MI family runs deep.
Building for the future / A new breakwater and marginal wharf, will soon be taking shape at the Holyrood Marine Base.
The Bridge is published by the Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University. We welcome submissions, story ideas, photographs, letters and, of course, your comments. Editor: Leslie Earle Graphic Design: Brian Summers Contact: P.O. Box 4920, St. John's, NL Canada A1C 5R3 Phone: 709.778.0677 Fax: 709.778.0672 Email: bridge@mi.mun.ca
A NEW MASTER OF
MARINE STUDIES MARINE SPATIAL PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT
FEATURE ARTICLE
Influence, lead and provide decision making support for the management and planning of coastal and marine spaces.
As the focus on the management of marine coastal areas continues to grow, graduate students with an interest in the area now have a new master's program to consider. Last fall, the Fisheries and Marine Institute (MI) announced a new Master of Marine Studies in Marine Spatial Planning and Management. The program is the first graduate level of its kind in Canada and will see graduates in positions where they will influence, lead and provide decision making support for the management and planning of increasingly busy shoreline areas. "Marine spatial planning is an emerging and important field that is gaining prominence as global demands on our coastal spaces and oceans increase," said Carey Bonnell, head of the Marine Institute's School of Fisheries. "We want to position our graduates to apply technology-supported knowledge and expertise and provide the best advice to sustain and use our marine resources." Student enrolled in the 30 credit hour program will attend courses online and take part in one core on campus course (plus some on campus electives). There are also options for either an internship or research project.
The program is structured to provide a balance between conceptual/theoretical background and practical applied skills while also studying real world examples. Courses will focus on governance, policy/legislative, ecological, socio-economic, cultural, and technological elements of sustainable ocean and coastal zone development, planning and management. Students will also study the mapping and analysis of human activities and environmental features as part of planning environmentally/economically sustainable use of coastal and marine environments. School of Fisheries instructor Geoff Coughlan helped develop the new master's program. He notes that students will learn conflict management and facilitation skills to effectively engage coastal and ocean regulators and stakeholders as well as project management and utilization of geospatial technology to support planning efforts. "We expect graduates to work in government agencies, environmental non-governmental organizations (eNGOs), coastal and ocean industry sectors and consulting companies where they will work as marine planners or coastal and marine managers," said Mr. Coughlan. "Their role becomes significant when they
can suggest solutions where different mandates and interests in our coastal and ocean resources exist." A significant strength of the program is the fact that it has been developed with input from international marine spatial planning experts. Personnel from western Canada, the USA, Ireland, Scotland and the Netherlands have been engaged regarding overall program structure and development of key courses. They will also serve as contacts for potential international internships and research projects. Entry to the program is competitive and will be of interest to individuals with a biology, geography, environmental studies, ocean mapping or coastal and ocean management/industry background. This is the fifth master's program available from the Marine Institute, complementing its graduate programs in maritime management, fisheries resource management, and technology management with specialties in aquaculture technology or engineering and applied science technology. Classes will begin in September 2016. For more information, please visit www.mi.mun.ca/msp.
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CAPABILITY ENHANCEMENTS
CASD:
READY FOR FISHERIES FUTURE A three-year renovation program is now complete at the Centre for Aquaculture and Seafood Development (CASD) and the team is officially ready for the fisheries future. The upgrades include the installation of new equipment and the implementation of new processes that will better serve the changing needs of the facility and the clients it serves. “CASD is a comprehensive industrial response unit within the School of Fisheries, organized around three main research themes including seafood processing, aquaculture, and marine bioprocessing,” said Heather Manuel, director of the Centre for Aquaculture and Seafood Development. “We operate four research facilities — each of which has undergone significant renovations.”
At the aquaculture research facility, a new state-of-the-art 24 hour monitoring control system, new drum filters and biofilters, new oxygen distribution system and new quarantine facility for egg importation, are all providing the team with better control over experimental designs. In collaboration with the engineering team, the aquaculture team is actively engaged in projects such as the development of aquaponics systems and specialized harvesting equipment for mussels and oysters. “The changes in our aquaculture research facility have made way for some important research activities,” said Ms. Manuel. “We have been evaluating new strain performance, waste management strategies and aquaculture engineering.” At CASD’s new marine bioprocessing research laboratories and renovated pilot plant facility, the goal is to investigate and isolate bioactive compounds from marine processing discards and to develop them into
valuable products using biorefinery technology. Currently, the team is developing cost effective and environmentally sustainable processing methods to extract high quality fish oil and omega-3 fatty acids from salmon by-products and collagen from sea cucumbers, just to name a few. “We are also very proud of the work the research team has been doing around the development of a range of analytical lab services for wastewater analysis, proximate composition, chitin/chitosan quality, biodiesel and oil analysis,” continued Ms. Manuel. Today, more than 15 research and technical personnel are employed at the state-of-the-art research facilities. The team continues to provide a suite of technical expertise for addressing industry needs and is conducting a number of research and development efforts to enhance the future growth and diversification of the aquaculture and seafood processing industries in Newfoundland and Labrador.
A new equipment design lab and a dedicated team of mechanical and process engineers specializing in processing automation, new equipment design and productivity improvements/ processing efficiencies are but a few of the changes at CASD. A new NC Hiperbaric 55L high pressure processing system, AllPax retort system, Laitram CoolSteam cooker and a variety of pilot scale seafood processing equipment have also been added. HIGH PRESSURE PROCESSING OF STONE CRAB USING THE NC HIPERBARIC 55L HPP SYSTEM AT THE CENTRE FOR AQUACULTURE AND SEAFOOD DEVELOPMENT. PHOTO CREDIT: BRIAN GILLETT
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RESEARCH IN ACTION
SEA CUCUMBERS
“The sea cucumber is highly valuable and
Sea cucumbers are marine organisms that look exactly as their name suggests — a cucumber. On the surface, they appear to be pretty simple, but there’s much more to these leathery skinned aquatic creatures than meets the eye and that’s the focus of a new research strategy by the Fisheries and Marine Institute’s (MI) Dr. Deepika Dave. Dr. Dave is a research scientist with MI’s Centre for Aquaculture and Seafood Development (CASD) who has been awarded a five-year Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) Discovery Grant to work on the development of a bioprocessing strategy that will see the full use of sea cucumbers for the production of high value nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals. “I am humbled to receive this NSERC Discovery Grant which will cover the next five years of my work,” said Dr. Dave. “The sea cucumber is highly valuable and contains important health-related factors, including collagen which has many medical uses in treating complications of the bones and skin.” While the sea cucumber is most commonly gathered for human consumption, very little of the organism is actually eaten — leaving a lot of waste. Dr. Dave is focused on finding uses for the discarded parts
contains important health-related factors, including collagen which has many medical uses in treating complications of the DR. DEEPIKA DAVE HAS BEEN AWARDED AN NSERC DISCOVERY GRANT TO WORK ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF A BIOPROCESSING STRATEGY FOR THE FULL USE OF SEA CUCUMBERS. PHOTO CREDIT: ANGIE BISHOP
such as the flower and wall, which is made up of 50% protein (of which 70% is collagen). “There is a tremendous interest in pharmaceuticals right now,” said Dr. Dave. “A number of the discarded parts contain a great deal of collagen and I am looking forward to learning how to best extract and process it for the benefit of the industry.” Thinking long term, Dr. Dave hopes that the strategy that is developed over the next five years will lead to a research initiative at a pilot scale and proof of concept level with industry contribution. The NSERC program reflects a $340-million investment in more than 3,800 researchers at over 70 universities through NSERC’s
bones and skin.”
Discovery Grants, Discovery Accelerator Supplements, Discovery Development Grants, Alexander Graham Bell Canada Graduate Scholarships, Postgraduate Scholarships, Post-doctoral Scholarships and Research Tools and Instruments Grants. Discovery Grants recognize the creativity and innovation that are at the heart of all research advances. The program assists in promoting and maintaining a diversified base of high-quality research capability in the natural sciences and engineering in Canadian universities, fostering research excellence and providing a stimulating environment for research training.
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INDUSTRY
THE OSSC EVOLUTION
For thirty years, the Fisheries and Marine Institute's (MI) Offshore Safety and Survival Centre (OSSC) has been equipping participants with the safety and emergency response skills they need for the offshore petroleum, marine transportation, fishing and land based industries.
Nearly a half a million dollars allowed for the upgrade of the ship firefighting structure, ensuring OSSC’s long-term capability to provide exceptional firefighting training to marine and offshore customers. New selfcontained breathing apparatus (SCBA) also enhance fire training courses.
While the existing facility in Foxtrap has served the Centre well, the demands are growing. To meet these changing needs, upgrades have been made to enhance client experience and open up new opportunities for the facility, including new research capabilities to make the offshore and fishing industries safer.
A helicopter firefighting simulator was also installed for the delivery of helicopter fire training and a new helideck has been constructed. A new helicopter refueling station will also benefit the Foxtrap location — the only training unit of its kind in eastern Canada.
“Safety is our business and we are working closely with industry to build on our safety culture and safety management system,” said Captain Fred Anstey, director of MI’s Offshore Safety and Survival Centre. “These improvements are focused on ensuring that not only is our training the best delivered in Newfoundland and Labrador but the safest as well.” In addition to new student amenities at the Centre, the latest in technology has been installed, including the addition of a Harding Lifeboat LBT 650 with the most current lifeboat technologies available on the market.
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In addition, a new cafeteria where clients and staff can enjoy a firstclass facility in their down time is underway. As is the renovation of the facility’s entrance, including new signage which will make identifying OSSC easier.
INDUSTRY
To ensure the information being shared with clients matches the physical upgrades, new marketing materials have also been created to promote OSSC's services and capabilities. This includes a new brochure, advertising and a booth for use at conferences and tradeshows. Ensuring clients are able to register and avail of courses at OSSC is also important and the team has a new online registration system that gives corporate and individual clients the ability to register and make payments online. To complement the facility enhancements, a new environment health safety and quality position has been created to build on and improve safety initiatives at MI and specifically the OSSC. The work continues this winter, with a focus on completing the cafeteria and client services areas.
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STUDENT CONNECTION
MEDITERRANEAN MYSTERIES
RV HERCULES, BAR, MONTENEGRO. PHOTO CREDIT: WILLIAM GLATT
In 2012, London, ON native Will Glatt arrived at the Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University (MI) to study in the Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROV Operator) — Technician Diploma program. Little did he know that it would lead him to the ancient shipwrecks in the Mediterranean. “I wanted to attend a school where I wouldn’t just be a number in a classroom. I wanted high student teacher ratios, hands on learning and flexibility with regards to the amount of time I spent on my education and MI met all of that criteria and then some,” said Mr. Glatt. After spending many years with the Royal Canadian Sea Cadets, Mr. Glatt developed an interest in working on
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the water. He knew he wanted a career that allowed him to travel and explore but also had variety and enabled him to work with his hands. He quickly realized that a career working with ROVs and underwater vehicles met those goals.
Foundation (RPMNF), through Highland Geo Solutions — an adventure that has allowed him to complete work in Europe.
“I grew up reading classic science fiction by authors such as Robert Heinlien, Issac Assimov and Frank Herbert. Learning about technology and technical skills strongly appealed to me and my decision to pursue a career in underwater vehicles felt natural,” he says.
In July 2014, Mr. Glatt met RPMNF's Research Vessel Hercules in Albania where he and the team surveyed up the coast to Montenegro and Croatia, then back down the Adriatic. The experience then took him to Malta to complete the survey season. During summer 2015, he met the vessel in Trapani, Italy before continuing across to the Adriatic for ROV operations in Albania and Montenegro.
As part of the ROV program, students get practical work term experience. For the past two summers, Mr. Glatt has worked with RPM Nautical
“For the first summer, I was brought onboard as a survey technician to operate a sector scan sonar and process data collected by an AUV,”
STUDENT CONNECTION
said Mr. Glatt. “RPMNF had borrowed an Iver 2 AUV from Ocean Server to continue searching for possible shipwrecks in the countries in which they operate.”
and it was so dark, we could only see as far as the ROV lights allowed us. The amount of sea life along the crest of the cliffs was breathtaking and I felt like I was exploring a different planet.”
While piloting the ROV he and the team were completing video surveys of shipwrecks as well as recovering artifacts such as pottery.
“The instructors and lab technicians at MI and the School of Ocean Technology are extremely helpful and have opened ROMAN AMPHORA RECOVERED IN MONTENEGRO. PHOTO CREDIT: WILLIAM GLATT
RPMNF brought Glatt back to their team for a second summer, primarily for his ability to integrate with the crew and his applicable skill set. “The focus for my second field season was AUV survey and ROV operations, to which my training directly applies,” he said. “Hercules is a small vessel with only a 14 member crew. By bringing a diverse set of skills and technical abilities, I filled a niche role and was able to contribute to the success of RPMNF's mission.” When asked about his favourite work term memory, Glatt describes his experiences in Malta last summer. “I was helping with a seafloor exploration course and we took the ROV on a relatively deep dive to about 800M to some undersea cliffs off the coast of Malta,” said Mr. Glatt. “This was the deepest dive I have ever done
many doors for me — both physically and metaphorically.”
learning specialized skills that will further his career such as hydraulics and fibre optics specialty courses. “I have even considered going to school as a machinist because much of my time at MI is spent in the ocean technology fabrication shop and I really enjoy designing and building technologies,” he notes. As for his future, Glatt says that his dream job is to work with the Canadian Scientific Submersible Foundation (CSSF), based out of Sannich, BC where he would have the opportunity to operate ROPOS, a custom built scientific ROV. Beyond that he would like to work in underwater vehicle design and manufacturing. Mr. Glatt enjoys sailing, hiking, scuba diving, reading, playing board games and indulging his creative side through various art forms. To future or current ROV students, he suggests taking advantage of every opportunity available. “Join Eastern Edge Robotics, MUN's MATE ROV competition team. Get time in the ROV simulator as much as you can and explore the leadership and volunteer opportunities available through the student union, MUN volunteer bureau and MI student services,” he says.
RV HERCULES, LABRATORY, PHOTO CREDIT: LOREN CLARKE
Today, Mr. Glatt is currently enrolled in his fourth year of the Bachelor of Technology in Underwater Vehicles at MI. Beyond the Institute and Memorial, he hopes to continue
When on campus, Mr. Glatt spends much of his spare time in the ROV shop tinkering, repairing or constructing new ROVs. “The instructors and lab technicians at MI and the School of Ocean Technology are extremely helpful and have opened many doors for me — both physically and metaphorically,” he says.
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THE FRONTIER OF OFFSHORE SIMULATION TRAINING The Fisheries and Marine Institute’s Centre for Marine Simulation (CMS) is changing the face of offshore training thanks to the New Hibernia Offshore Operations Simulator Facility — a state-of-the-art facility designed to prepare mariners for some of the toughest situations faced offshore, without ever having to step off dry land.
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Made possible thanks to support from the Hibernia Management and Development Company and government partners, the facility is designed to replicate an offshore supply vessel. It sits on a six-degree of freedom motion platform and can imitate a wide range of conditions at sea such as high winds and pounding seas. Inside the simulator, all the features of a supply vessel bridge are surrounded by a 360 degree visualization system which can adapt to any situation or geographic area. The software behind the simulator was designed by Kongsberg Maritime Simulation. “We are very pleased to be the home of the Hibernia Offshore Operations Facility where the goal is to provide offshore operators with advanced and customized training for the supply and support of offshore facilities and production platforms,” said Captain Christopher Hearn, director, Centre for Marine Simulation. “We are committed to ensuring mariners have the experience
TABLE OF CONTENTS
and confidence to deal with some of the toughest problems they can face in their work environment.” The positioning and anchoring of offshore drilling and production platforms remains one of the most critical items in any offshore operation and simulation training helps vessel crews build their experience. The technology can also replicate activities such as supply transfers, iceberg management and subsea operations. “Vessels are often tasked to perform more than one function, such as transferring people and equipment, undertaking an ROV operation, standing by for iceberg mitigation or assisting with platform movements,” continued Captain Hearn. “With the simulator, we’ll be able to realistically capture some of these tasks and develop customized solutions to help mariners effectively respond to the challenges they may face on the ocean.”
In addition to a teaching and learning resource, the simulator will provide CMS with more opportunities for important research. “It will allow the Centre to continue spearheading research in the areas of ice navigation, technology transfer and simulation development,” said Captain Hearn. “As well, it will provide CMS with an opportunity to work with industry to identify new equipment designs and equipment interfaces that will make operations safer and more efficient.” CMS responds to a variety of requests ranging from ship manoeuvring and procedural trials, performance examination and improvements, and customized training to operational efficiency reviews, marine equipment testing and port design evaluation.
said Glenn Blackwood, vicepresident, Memorial University (Marine Institute). “This new training simulator would not have been possible without the support of Hibernia, ACOA and the provincial government and I would like to thank them for their support of this important initiative that will no doubt have a vital impact going forward.” CMS is an industrial arm of the Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University which combines its unique North Atlantic location, world-class simulation technology and industry-driven expertise to solve the toughest simulation problems for its clients. This unique training simulator is the 24th in the suite of simulators at the Centre and builds upon the existing capabilities and training facilities.
“We are very proud of this new technology and the benefits it will bring to our industry partners and the offshore oil and gas sector,”
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Centre for Aquaculture and Seafood Development
With a dedicated team of scientists and technologists, the Centre for Aquaculture and Seafood Development (CASD) supports the seafood processing, aquaculture, and marine bioprocessing industries with our applied research capabilities, product and process development, technology transfer, advisory services and education and training. No matter where you are in the food development and processing chain, CASD delivers the results you need to succeed in the market.
www.mi.mun.ca/casd
EXECUTIVE ANNOUNCEMENT
WELCOMING
NEW ASSOCIATE VICE-PRESIDENT The Fisheries and Marine Institute (MI) is welcoming a new member to its management team. Gary Bradshaw has been appointed as the new associate vice-president (Administration and Finance) and will officially assume the role in winter 2016.
“Mr. Bradshaw brings a proven experience that will be critical as we achieve the final stages of establishing the Marine Institute as a world oceans Institute,” said Glenn Blackwood, vice-president, Memorial University (Marine Institute). “His leadership will be valuable for ensuring that we offer the best post-secondary experience for all members of the Memorial and Marine Institute community as we further engage in research and development activities, grow our infrastructure and resources and expand our outreach activities.” With more than 20 years of postsecondary experience, Mr. Bradshaw has worked in facilities management, project management and general management in the areas of engineering, financial services, human resources and labour relations.
As part of the Memorial community, he has served as associate vicepresident (Grenfell Campus) Administration and Finance since 2011. He also held the position of director of Facilities Management at St. John’s Campus for more than six years. Prior to his current role, Mr. Bradshaw served as vice-president, finance and facilities with the University of Prince Edward Island — a position he held for nine years. He was also vicepresident of business operations at Stratos Global. Mr. Bradshaw is the past-president and board member of the Canadian Association of University Business Officers (CAUBO). Mr. Bradshaw holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and a master’s degree in business administration, both from Memorial University.
In his new role, Mr. Bradshaw will be responsible for non-academic units that support campus operations such as Finance, Human Resources, Marketing and Communications, Facilities and Technical Services, Information and Communications Technologies, Marine Services, and Catering and Conference Services. He will oversee MI’s budget and resources, liaise with government, clients and community stakeholders and provide leadership to institutional planning and analysis consistent with the Institute's vision and long-term strategic plan. The associate vice-president (Administration and Finance) is a newly created position, replacing the former director of Corporate Services and External Affairs role. Mr. Bradshaw will report directly to the vice-president, Memorial University (Marine Institute).
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MI NEWS
GERARD CHIDLEY APPOINTED CFER ADVISORY COMMITTEE CHAIR The Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University is pleased to have appointed Gerard Chidley as Chair of the Centre for Fisheries Ecosystems Research (CFER) Advisory Committee. A native of Renews, NL, Mr. Chidley has been active in the marine industry since 1972 as owner and co-captain of
MI NEWS the multi-species fishing vessel Atlantic Champion. He has also been the industry representative with a number of fisheries research, conservation and management organizations at the regional, national and international level.
CMS EARNS AWARD FOR ICE MANAGEMENT SIMULATION The Marine Institute’s Centre for Marine Simulation (CMS) has received the Arctic Shipping North America Innovation Award 2015 for its ground breaking work in ice management simulation. Captain Chris Hearn, director of CMS picked up the award during the Arctic Shipping Forum in St. John’s, NL. The ASF Arctic Shipping North America
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Innovation Award is presented annually to the company or individual that has developed the
most innovative idea which benefits the Arctic, either through a new technology, environmental practice or service to Arctic communities.
NEW LEADER FOR INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF SEAFOOD PROFESSIONALS Carey Bonnell, head of MI's School of Fisheries is the new president of the International Association of Seafood Professionals (IAFI). Mr. Bonnell officially assumed the position during the World Seafood Congress in Grimsby, UK — a biennial event that assembles
hundreds of seafood industry stakeholders from around the world. As president, Mr. Bonnell will work with the executive committee to represent and
MI NEWS
help advance the seafood sector globally. He will provide strategic direction to the organization and explore new opportunities for growth and advancement.
MI PRESENTS SCHOLARSHIPS AND AWARDS Ninety-seven scholarships were handed out during the Institute's annual Fall Scholarships and Awards Presentation in November.
achievement, strong leadership skills, extra-curricular activities and community involvement. The scholarships and awards are made possible thanks to the generous support of a number of organizations, individuals and industry partners and the Institute’s portfolio of scholarships continues to grow and diversify. This ceremony marked the inaugural award presentation of a number of new scholarships and bursaries, such as the Lieutenant Commander (Retired) Anthony Green Ayre Bursary; the W. Gary Rowe, QC Scholarships; the Jane Simoes Ré Memorial Scholarship; and the Skinner Memorial Scholarships.
NAME OUR VESSEL CONTEST Each spring and fall, MI recognizes students who have distinguished themselves in their respective programs through academic
Last fall, the Marine Institute launched the ‘Name our Vessel’ contest to help find a name for its latest training and research vessel — formally the Canadian Coast Guard vessel Shamook and
now simply known as 2013-2. After reviewing nearly 70 entries from students, faculty, staff and alumni,
the selection committee is pleased to announce that the vessel will now be known as the MV Inquisitor. The winning entry was submitted by Kayla Tidd, an advanced diploma student in the Integrated Coastal and Ocean Management program at the Institute. Kayla’s winning submission earns her an Apple Watch.
ANNOUNCMENT
HEADING NORTH
MI DIRECTOR NAMED VP INDIGENOUS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF THE ARCTIC Born in L’Anse Aux Meadows, NL, Gerald Anderson joined the Fisheries and Marine Institute in 1987 and has worked for over 28 years in various roles with indigenous groups in Newfoundland and Labrador, Nunavut, and Nunavik, primarily focused on establishing fisheries and marine education and training programs. In February 2015, he was recognized with the national Indspire Award in environment and natural resources for his work to strengthen fisheries and marine education in Nunavik, Nunavut and Labrador. UArctic is comprised of some 150 universities, colleges and other organizations, including Memorial
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University, committed to higher education and research in the North. It builds and strengthens collective resources and collaborative infrastructure that enables member institutions to better serve their constituents and their regions. Through cooperation in education, research and outreach UArctic enhances human capacity in the North, promotes viable communities and sustainable economies, and forges global partnerships. Well-known throughout Newfoundland and Labrador and across Canada for his work with Aboriginal Peoples in the education sector, Mr. Anderson has been appointed vice-president Indigenous with University of the Arctic (UArctic). Mr. Anderson will provide strategic oversight of indigenous perspectives within UArctic and ensure that UArctic contributes to the well-being of northern indigenous communities while continuing his role as director, development and engagement at the Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University (MI). In a recent interview, Mr. Anderson highlighted some of his priorities going forward. interests you most Q: What about the role? Most of my experience over the past 28 years has been with indigenous groups in Newfoundland and Labrador, Nunavut, and Nunavik. I am looking forward to expanding beyond the Canadian Arctic and connecting with indigenous groups circumpolar on how we can build meaningful partnerships and support one another.
are some of the Q: What priorities for you? Building strong, meaningful relationships between UArctic and indigenous communities and their organizations. It’s very important we work together to explore how we can combine academic research and traditional knowledge in a way that is meaningful to northern areas.
are you most Q: What looking forward to? I am looking forward to working with indigenous groups across the Arctic to learn about how UArctic can assist with solutions to northern challenges. Meeting with all indigenous groups will be one of my first priorities.
will your experiences Q: How at MI help you in this role? Over my time with MI, I have helped with various training plans for Nunavut, Nunatsiavut, Innu Nation, Federation of Newfoundland Indians and the Labrador Métis Nation. I’ve also worked closely with the Miawpukek First Nation in Conne River to develop and deliver a long-term fisheries and marine training program. My experiences in these areas will help to guide me in my new role as I work to develop and strengthen relationships with indigenous groups in other northern countries.
has been one of the Q: What most rewarding aspects of
your work at MI that you hope to carry forward in some way?
We have focused on helping youth gain employment in the fisheries sector and marine transportation industry by bringing the training to those who would otherwise be unable to access the necessary education. It has been very rewarding and I hope that I’ll be able to inspire similar outcomes through my role with the UArctic.
RESEARCH IN ACTION
TRACING CAPELIN Capelin have rolled on many Newfoundland and Labrador beaches for centuries. However, the collapse of the capelin stock off the northern coast of Labrador in the 1990’s and sudden resurgence in 2013 have now sparked a debate on the true origins of the fish returning to the northern coast of Labrador. Previous studies have shown that capelin in Newfoundland and Labrador share common ancestry and come from the northwest area of the Atlantic Ocean. However, other researchers produced the hypothesis that the Labrador Sea represents a mixing zone for capelin belonging to the Arctic, northeastcentral Atlantic and northwest Atlantic populations. It is therefore probable that capelin on the north coast of Labrador did not undertake a southward migration during the 1990’s, as previously assumed, but migrated northward instead. Today, the genetic structure of capelin populations still remains largely unknown and Dr. Marie Clément of the Fisheries and Marine Institute's (MI) Centre for Fisheries Ecosystems Research (CFER) and based at the Labrador Institute has assembled a team to determine whether capelin now returning to the north coast of Labrador belong to northern or southern populations. “For managing this important forage species,
CAPTURING CAPELIN IN ST. LEWIS, LABRADOR. L-R: RAMSEY CURL, TROY CURL, MAYA TATCHELL. PHOTO CREDIT: REBECCA POOLE
I believe that it is important to track the origins of the capelin returning to coastal Labrador and to compare life history traits with other capelin stocks,” said Dr. Marie Clément.
to arctic populations, Dr. Clément believes the stock management plan currently used in Newfoundland and Labrador waters will need to be revisited.
During this initial phase of the project, which began in July 2015, fin tissue samples were obtained for genetic analysis and whole fish were preserved for future capelin body measurements and age determination at 18 sites in Labrador, on the Quebec Lower North Shore, in Nunavut and in Greenland.
“Changes in capelin population dynamics have had severe consequences on the productivity of Newfoundland and Labrador marine ecosystems,” explains Dr. Clément. “For example, Atlantic cod, an important capelin predator, experienced a simultaneous collapse in the early 1990s and has since remained at low levels in the absence of their main prey, among other factors.”
“Capelin spawning season is very brief and the locations of spawning are highly variable,” said Dr. Clément. “Therefore, this project relied principally on local samplers with knowledge of spawning locations at each sampling site. The project’s success largely depends upon collaboration with Nunatsiavut and NunatuKavut conservation officers, local fishers, commercial harvesters, the Labrador Fishermen's Union Shrimp Company, provincial and federal governments, Greenland Institute of Natural Resources and academics working in different regions.” Should it be true that the capelin migrating back to Labrador belong
Capelin is also an important forage or prey species for many other fish, mammal and bird species and is therefore considered a keystone species in marine ecosystems. A better understanding of capelin populations’ genetic structure and life history traits is therefore necessary for fisheries management. Based on the tremendous success of the work done in the 2015 field season, Dr. Clément will further develop this project with her collaborators to generate the information needed to better under the capelin of Labrador.
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ALUMNI PROFILE
ALL IN THE FAMILY When students begin their educational journey at the Marine Institute, they become part of a family. However, for alumnus Adam Furlong, MI 2010, the concept of an MI family runs much deeper.
Mr. Furlong and his siblings grew up around the water, so when his older brother Stephen enrolled in the Naval Architecture program at the Institute, it seemed like a natural fit. So natural, in fact, that Mr. Furlong, his younger sister Sheena and cousin Luke also decided to study at MI. “My Dad was always buying and selling boats so I was familiar with the water but I just wasn’t sure what program I was most interested in career-wise,” said Mr. Furlong. “Looking to my older brother, I found out about the Marine Engineering Systems Design (MESD) at MI and that’s what I decided to do.” A marine engineering systems designer is the link between a hull designer and an operator.
ADAM FURLONG AND WIFE KASSANDRA HOLD A GIFT THEY RECEIVED DURING THEIR 2015 WEDDING CELEBRATION
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It has often been said that a marine engineering systems designer "gives life to ships" by designing the ship systems that allow the ship to operate as intended. Fitting for Mr. Furlong, whose MI experiences also influenced his life — both personally and professionally. It was at MI that Adam made connections with some of his closest friends, not to mention, helped strengthen his relationship with long-term partner, Kassandra Paul who joined the MESD program one year after him. While the couple had been in a long distance relationship for years, studying together at MI was a big step for them both.
ALUMNI PROFILE
“The classes are small, which really helped bring all of our classmates together,” said Mr. Furlong. “From student socials to late nights studying in the MESD classroom and secret Santa exchanges, we did everything as a group for the three full years.”
It reminded us all of how lucky we were to have been brought together by MI and for the friendships we’ve continued to strengthen over the years,” continued Mr. Furlong.
Today, the couple keeps in contact with their friends via email and text, but their former classmates make an effort to get together over Christmas and for other special occasions — like the recent marriage of Mr. Furlong and Ms. Paul where most all of their former classmates travelled from near and far to celebrate with them.
The connections don’t end there. Mr. Furlong makes it a point to keep in touch with some of his former instructors.
“Having everyone together again for the wedding was very special.
“Sometimes I will realize that I haven't made contact with MI in
INTRODUCING THE MI
ALUMNUS PIN
Show your MI alumni pride to the world with our new alumni pin, designed exclusively for our graduates. Starting in 2016, all graduates will be presented with their pin on their graduation day by the Office of Development and Engagement. However, you can get yours too!
a while and I will contact Mark Wareham to see how things are going.” Today, Mr. Furlong is employed with Technip and the new Mrs. Furlong is working at Fleetway — both based in St. John’s, NL. As for Mr. Furlong’s older brother Stephen, younger sister Sheena and cousin Luke, they are also happily employed thanks to their experiences at MI. Furlong hopes his career and that of his relatives will inspire the next generation of his family. “I hope that, some day, my grandchildren or their children will be able to tell you about their careers on the ocean and how their grandfather and his generation started it all.”
It’s simple. Just visit www.mi.mun.ca/ alumni/ReconnectWithMI, update your current address and you’ll receive your pin in the mail. Looking for other ways to stay connected with MI? Follow us on Twitter, like our Facebook alumni page and follow our new LinkedIn University page where you can stay up to date on our upcoming events and news.
SPRING SCHOLARSHIPS AND AWARDS CEREMONY MI RIDGE ROAD CAMPUS, GYMNASIUM MARCH 17 WORLD OCEANS DAY FAMILY FUN DAY MI RIDGE ROAD CAMPUS JUNE 4, 2016 GRADUATION MI RIDGE ROAD CAMPUS, GYMNASIUM JUNE 17, 2016 OCEAN INNOVATION CONFERENCE 2016 IQALUIT, NUNAVUT THEME: ADAPTING TO A CHANGING CIRCUMPOLAR NORTH — TRADITIONAL & NEW OCEAN TECHNOLOGIES OCTOBER 4 –5, 2016 WWW.OCEANINNOVATION.CA
THE BRIDGE » MARINE INSTITUTE / 21
CAPABILITY ENHANCEMENTS
THE HOLYROOD MARINE BASE SUPPORTS AT-SEA RESEARCH AND THE TRAINING PRIORITIES OF THE MARINE INSTITUTE AND THE BROADER MEMORIAL UNIVERSITY COMMUNITY. PHOTO CREDIT: ANGIE BISHOP
BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE A new breakwater and marginal wharf will soon be taking shape at the Holyrood Marine Base. This work, along with the reconstruction of the existing wharf and installation of evacuation training systems will bring great enhancements to clients and students.
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“Since opening in 2010, the Marine Institute’s Holyrood Marine Base has become the portal to the ocean for the Memorial University community for innovative oceans education and research,” said Glenn Blackwood, vice-president, Memorial University (Marine Institute). “This next development of the Holyrood Marine Base will be transformative as we move forward to expand our capacity to undertake critical at-sea, in-water and sub-sea education and training activities and increased collaboration with industry to cement our province’s position in the global oceans technology sector.” The Institute will construct a breakwater/wharf pointing south, and breakwater on the north side in common with the berths and harbour on the south. The enclosed area will provide protected berthage for small and medium sized vessels, and a protected area where clients can continue in-water training and testing in all but the most extreme conditions.
Once complete, the at-sea safety and survival training currently offered at the Southside Marine Base will move to Holyrood — providing environmentally clean waters, a sheltered harbour and low traffic volume. Further development of the Holyrood Marine Base is expected in coming years — with plans to construct a second building on the site and develop a water lot adjacent to the Marine Base. The goal is to provide an area for additional marine related training activities as well as research and development on prototype ocean instruments. Construction of the breakwater, marginal wharf and the reconstruction of the existing wharf at the Holyrood Marine Base is expected to take 18 months and a contract for the work has been awarded.
With over 30 million nautical miles of classroom space, you’ll be ready for anything.
Offshore Safety and Survival Centre With over 30 highly trained instructors, we know this place better than anyone. That’s why our comprehensive range of safety and emergency response training courses always have the perfect mix of in-class and sea-based components ensuring you get the best safety training every time. WWW.MI.MUN.CA/OSSC
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