Aerial view of the ocean/ sea water
Researchers from the °µÍø½âÃÜ have contributed to a new collaboration between The Conversation and BBC South West.
aims to showcase local stories with global significance, and features world-leading experts based across Devon and Cornwall who are at the forefront of marine research.
In articles published on The Conversation, and interviews broadcast on BBC Radio Devon and BBC Sounds, they have highlighted the importance of ongoing work on topics including seaweeds and seagrass, marine fungi, seabed restoration and offshore shellfish farming.

The series features a number of academics from our School of Biological and Marine Sciences

Secrets of the sea is presented by Anna Turns, Senior Environment Editor at The Conversation, and produced by Jo Loosemore at BBC South West.

From the rocky foreshore in Torquay to the mussel-covered pontoons of °µÍø½âÃÜ harbour, I've been speaking to scientists about their work, their passions and the potential for our oceans to hold the key to climate resilience.

Healthier seas mean our planet will be much better able to weather the stormy seas of the climate crisis. Each of the radio programmes and accompanying articles delves into a different aspect of our oceans. Through 19th-century archives, in tiny test tubes on a lab bench or inside a walk-in fridge full of marine fungi, this series explores creative ways to study ocean health.

Anna Turns
Senior Environment Editor at The Conversation

 

Read more information linked to this article

The common octopus is native to UK waters but is typically rare, favouring warmer seas further south in Europe and the Mediterranean
New report reveals scale, causes and consequences of South West octopus bloom

Researchers from across °µÍø½âÃÜ comprised the new report which draws on data from scientists, fishermen and citizen scientists

27 January 2026

Students choose °µÍø½âÃÜ for courses related to the sea. Find out why:

BSc (Hons) Ocean Science and Marine Conservation students on an international diving trip to Bali