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SEA-EU International Week in Malta fosters new connections in marine research and innovation

The University of Malta hosted the International Week on Ocean Observation and Environmental Monitoring from 29 September to 1 October 2026, bringing researchers and experts together in Malta for 3 days of scientific exchange, networking and the development of new opportunities for collaboration.

The initiative was the brainchild of Prof. Martina Gerke of Kiel University's Faculty of Engineering, developed in collaboration with Prof. Alan Deidun of the University of Malta. Hosted primarily at the University's Valletta Campus, the event provided an immersive exploration of marine observation and environmental monitoring, with particular focus on the innovative approach of water quality testing probes designed for integration with marine buoys. The event brought together complementary expertise in ocean science, geosciences, sensor technologies, chemistry, microelectronics and information technology.

Expertise from across the University of Malta was represented through the involvement of the Department of Geosciences, Department of Chemistry, Department of Biology, and Department of Microelectronics & Nanoelectronics, alongside researchers from the University of Kiel, University of Brest, University of Naples, University of Split, University of Bremen, and the University of Minnesota Duluth.

This interdisciplinary and international dimension was reflected throughout the programme, which ranged from ½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ's BLUE marine monitoring buoy system, citizen science and drone thermal imagery to marine heatwaves, hydrodynamic modelling, chemical and biological sensing and microelectronics for environmental applications.

Importantly, the initiative connected expertise not only from within the , but also from institutions beyond it and from industry. Contributions included experts from the European University Institute of the Sea in France and Satlink, highlighting the value of bringing academic research and industry perspectives into the same conversation.

The International Week was designed to go beyond the traditional conference format. Dedicated networking and idea-generation activities encouraged participants to explore shared marine challenges, identify complementary expertise, and consider opportunities for new joint initiatives and research collaborations.

Participants also experienced Malta's maritime setting first-hand through a boat trip and a visit to Fort San Lucjan in Marsaxlokk, with field activities hosted by the Aquatic Resources Authority.

The event demonstrated the wider value of SEA-EU as a platform for connecting people, disciplines and institutions around challenges shared by Europe's maritime regions. For the University of Malta, it provided an opportunity to showcase its marine and environmental research expertise while strengthening links with researchers and external partners working in complementary fields.

The event was supported by the SEA-EU Office at the University of Malta, with Ms Maria Grima Calleja, Ms Fernanda Giraldo and Ms Tazin Akter providing coordination and organisational support.

The University of Malta's Rector, Prof. Frank Bezzina, delivered a welcome address, while Dean Prof. Emmanuel Sinagra, Head of the Department of Geosciences Prof. Sebastiano D'Amico, and Prof. Edward Gatt also lent their support. The Oceanography Malta Research Group (OMRG) participated throughout the event and presented its research.

Proceedings emerging from this cross-cutting workshop will be published soon, with plans for additional substantial publications based on collaborative outcomes from the event.