EMBRC Belgium Marks 10 Years of Marine Research with Anniversary Celebration in Brussels

The European Marine Biological Resource Centre Belgium (EMBRC Belgium) will celebrate its 10th anniversary on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at the Institute of Natural Sciences in Brussels. The milestone event will highlight a decade of scientific achievement and collaboration in advancing sustainable marine research.

The afternoon programme will feature inspiring talks and a panel discussion, reflecting on EMBRC Belgium’s contributions to marine science and innovation, as well as its role in supporting the blue economy, a sustainable approach to using ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and healthy ecosystems. The celebration will conclude with a networking reception, offering participants the opportunity to connect with researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders.

Founded in 2015, EMBRC Belgium is part of the wider European Marine Biological Resource Centre (EMBRC), a pan-European research infrastructure dedicated to excellence in marine biology and ecology. Its mission is to enhance understanding of marine resources and promote their sustainable use for the benefit of society.

EMBRC Belgium brings together five leading institutions: Ghent University (coordinator), KU Leuven, UHasselt, the Flanders Marine Institute, and the Institute of Natural Sciences. Over the past decade, the consortium has provided access to marine organisms and ecosystems, advanced training opportunities, specialized expertise, and state-of-the-art infrastructure.

Its impact is reflected in an impressive scientific record: nearly 300 peer-reviewed publications and participation in 40 European research projects addressing key challenges such as sustainable aquaculture, renewable energy, blue biotechnology, and ecosystem management.

The anniversary is both a moment of reflection and a moment to look ahead to an exciting future of cutting-edge research in support of a sustainable blue economy.

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