The Marine Biodiversity Observation Network (MBON) and the Atlantic International Research Centre (AIR Centre) will jointly host an in‑person, hands‑on workshop on Enhancing Marine Biodiversity Data Collection and Publication, taking place from 19 to 23 October 2026 on Terceira Island, Azores (Portugal).
The workshop is designed to support marine scientists, data managers and practitioners in mobilising marine biological observation data to the Ocean Biodiversity Information System (OBIS), following internationally recognised standards such as Darwin Core. Participants will receive practical guidance on standardising biodiversity datasets, improving data quality and preparing information for publication and reuse in support of scientific research, species conservation and ecosystem‑based management.
In addition to classroom‑based training, the programme includes a fieldwork component, where participants will be trained in the collection and processing of benthic photo‑quadrat imagery and its analysis in line with MBON Pole‑to‑Pole monitoring protocols, strengthening capacity for long‑term monitoring of rocky intertidal communities. By the end of the workshop, participants are expected to have brought at least one dataset to a ready-to-ready stage, aligned with best practices for marine biodiversity data sharing.
The program/schedule is available here
The workshop will also foster collaborative research exchanges and contribute to the growing MBON community of practice, reinforcing coordinated and standardised approaches to marine biodiversity observation and data publication. Applications are open until 25 May 2026, with selected candidates notified by 19 June 2026.
More information and registration details are available on the event page
Registration here (a €50 registration fee will be charged upon selection)