Marine Measurement Forum #71 Announces Keynote and Speaker Line-Up
The keynote speaker and initial programme line-up have been announced for Marine Measurement Forum (MMF) #71, taking place on 1 July 2026 at Dartington Hall in Totnes, Devon.
Hosted by Teledyne Valeport, a division of Teledyne Marine, MMF#71 brings together professionals from industry, research and academia for a one-day forum focused on advances in marine measurement science and technology related topics. MMF is a great opportunity for delegates to share their own knowledge, gather information, and network with like-minded professionals.
This year’s programme reflects a broad cross-section of activity spanning ocean observation, hydrography, environmental monitoring, and data-driven marine science.
The keynote address will be delivered by Dr Edward Steele, IT Fellow for Data Science at the Met Office, who will present “The (increasing) importance of marine measurements in an era of AI”. Dr Steele is responsible for shaping and delivering the Met Office’s artificial intelligence and machine learning capability, with expertise in Environmental Intelligence and extensive experience across academia, industry and government. His work focuses on helping organisations “look around corners” and unlock emerging technological opportunities for weather and climate-related decision-making.
In his keynote, he will explore how advances in artificial intelligence and machine learning are reshaping meteorological and oceanographic science, and how these developments are increasingly recognised as a critical enabler of world-class forecasting and services. He will examine the growing importance of marine measurements in improving predictive modelling and understanding in an AI-driven era, alongside the opportunities and challenges for accelerating progress across the sector. His work in the marine sector has supported offshore energy applications, helping to de-risk multi-million-pound projects, enhance safety of life at sea, and contribute to evolving sector-wide standards for the use of meteorological and oceanographic information.
Alongside the keynote, MMF #71 will feature technical presentations and case studies from across the sector.
Peter Holt, Marine Habitat Specialist, Sonardyne International Ltd, will present work on the application of high-resolution sonar technologies to support seagrass mapping and habitat restoration in Plymouth Sound Marine Protected Area. His presentation will highlight the use of a Wavefront Solstice Multi-Aperture Sonar (MAS) to provide spatially accurate, wide-area data on seagrass distribution, including mapping in shallow and complex nearshore environments.
He will also discuss the use of ROV-based ground-truthing, combining subsea navigation and imaging systems, to validate sonar interpretations and support monitoring, measurement, and reporting for marine restoration and blue natural capital projects.
Dr Eva Perrin, Research Fellow in River Pollution, University of Plymouth, will present approaches to improving river water quality monitoring through rapid bacterial screening, sensor-based networks, and community-led data systems across South West catchments. Her work addresses limitations in traditional monitoring frameworks and explores more accessible, real-time approaches to environmental data collection and use. She will discuss case studies from South Hams catchments, including deployment of rapid bacterial screening technology and integrated sensor and data dashboards developed in collaboration with local communities, authorities and industry partners.
Dr Ian Ashton, Senior Lecturer in Ocean Technology at the University of Exeter and Royal Academy of Engineering Industry Fellow, will explore the MaLCOM framework and how real-time offshore data and improved forecasting techniques can help offshore wind operators make safer, more efficient decisions when planning and carrying out marine operations for an offshore wind farm.
The MMF#71 programme will also include engagement from across the wider marine measurement and environmental monitoring community, including a presentation from Holly Pearson, Senior Monitoring Officer at West Country Rivers Trust, who will explore how water monitoring technologies and real-time data are helping tackle urban water pollution and support river management in the context of the River Dart.
In addition to the MET Office, University of Plymouth, West Country Rivers Trust, and Sonardyne International, MMF71’s speakers also include representation from Surfers Against Sewage, Subnero, Surfline, and the South West Coastal Monitoring Programme among others.
Emma Johnson, Marine Measurement Forum Steering group added, “The strength of MMF has always been its informal, discussion-led format and the diversity of perspectives it brings together. This year’s line-up reflects that ethos, with contributions spanning environmental monitoring, habitat restoration, data science and emerging technologies. We’re looking forward to welcoming both returning attendees and new voices to what is always a collaborative and thought-provoking forum.”
Alongside a full day of presentations and structured networking, there will be informal opportunities for discussion throughout the event and an evening networking session. Delegates will also have the option to attend a post-event tour of Teledyne Valeport on 2 July, offering insight into the design and manufacture of oceanographic and hydrographic instrumentation.
With limited places available for MMF #71, interested parties are encouraged to book as soon as possible. Full details and registration are available at http://www.marinemeasurementforum.com/
Navigating the UK Defence Ecosystem: Opportunities for Marine Science and Technology
The Society of Maritime Industries' (SMI) Marine Science and Technology Group (MSTG) is running a seminar to provide a high-level overview as to how non-traditional defence suppliers including SMEs can engage with the UK defence ecosystem, with a particular focus on Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) and UK Defence Innovation (UKDI) from the Ministry of Defence (MOD) National Armaments Director (NAD) Group.
The seminar is being developed with the support of Dstl, who work with a range of suppliers to provide science and technology expertise, insights and solutions to protect the UK’s security and advance the UK’s defence interests. The session will explore how Dstl supports early-stage engagement, collaboration and access to defence customers, where marine science and technology (S&T) capabilities align with defence’s challenges and priorities and how to access MOD funding.
The discussion will offer a practical overview of how MOD and Dstl think about capability development, evidence, assurance and risk, and how civil and dual-use technologies can transition into defence-relevant applications.
The aim is not to turn MSTG members into defence primes, but to demystify defence engagement, highlight realistic entry points, and help organisations understand whether, where and how working within the defence ecosystem could make sense for them.
The rough agenda is as follows:
9.30 - 10.00 - Registration and networking
10.00 - 11.30 - Session 1: Mike Madden - Local Innovation Partner for South West England, UK Defence InnovationMark Ward - Strategic Outreach Lead & SME Lead, Dstl
Hazel Biggs - Knowledge Transfer Manager ‑ Security and Defence, Innovate UK Business Connect
Royal Navy Speaker - TBC
11.30 - 12.00 - Coffee Break
12.00 - 13.00 - Session 2:
Joint MOD QinetiQ Test and Evaluation Innovation Gateway - Julie Ashton, QinetiQ
Industry quickfire presentations
13.00 - 14.00 - Lunch
For more information or to register, visit: Navigating the UK Defence Ecosystem: Opportunities for Marine Science and Technology
Registration Opens for Marine Measurement Forum #71 at Dartington Hall, Devon
Abstract submissions invited
Registration is now open for Marine Measurement Forum (MMF) #71, taking place on 1 July 2026 at Dartington Hall in Totnes, Devon. The one-day, in-person event will bring together professionals from research, industry, and academia, to explore current challenges, emerging research, and future trends in marine measurement technology and methods.
Hosted by Teledyne Valeport, a division of Teledyne Marine, MMF#71 provides a collaborative platform for engineers, surveyors, scientists, researchers, and marine technology specialists to share knowledge, exchange best practice, and build professional connections across the marine measurement community.
This year’s forum will be held at the historic Dartington Hall estate in South Devon, a region with a long‑established and diverse concentration of marine science, technology, and measurement expertise. The depth of capability across research, innovation, and application in the South West makes it an ideal setting for bringing the marine measurement community together.
“The Marine Measurement Forum is built around open discussion and knowledge sharing, and hosting MMF #71 at Dartington Hall allows us to reflect the strength and diversity of marine measurement expertise here in the South West,” said Iain Slade, Head of Product & Innovation, Teledyne Valeport. “We’re looking forward to welcoming both familiar faces and new contributors to what is always an engaging and insightful event.”
MMF#71 will follow the forum’s well‑established informal format, encouraging discussion and interaction alongside technical presentations. The programme will be complemented by dedicated networking opportunities throughout the day, with an informal evening networking session on site providing further opportunity to continue conversations and build connections.
Attendees can also take part in an optional tour of Teledyne Valeport on 2 July, offering a behind‑the‑scenes look at the development and manufacture of oceanographic and hydrographic instrumentation.
Call For Abstracts Now Open
A call for abstracts and presentation ideas is now open, and contributions are invited from across the marine measurement community. Those with interesting projects, research, case studies, or practical experiences to share are encouraged to submit presentation ideas to be considered as part of the technical programme. To submit an abstract please email [email protected]
“The Marine Measurement Forum is built around knowledge sharing and open discussion, and we’re always keen to welcome new speakers and new ideas. MMF#71 provides a great opportunity for the marine measurement community to come together, share practical insight, and contribute to a collaborative technical programme.” said Emma Johnson, Marine Measurement Forum Steering Group.
Secure Your Space at MMF #71
Spaces are limited, and early booking is recommended to secure a place at the event. For tickets and more information click here.
For further information, please visit: http://www.marinemeasurementforum.com/
Ports, Oceans & Climate Tech Acceleration
Join the Eagle Labs team in Southampton for an event that will explore how ports and coastal communities can become climate tech hubs, championing innovation in sectors such as offshore wind, ocean data intelligence, and energy storage.
The event also will highlight the Barclays National Climate Tech Accelerator Programme, launched in partnership with Sustainable Ventures. The programme provides tiered support for climate tech businesses, helping them scale, connect with industry leaders, and accelerate the UK’s transition to net zero.
Date & Time: Wednesday, Feb 25 from 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm
Location: Barclays Network Eagle Lab, 2nd Floor, Marlands Shopping Centre (street entrance opposite old mutual wealth), Portland Terrace Southampton SO147SJ
Global Underwater Hub Conference to dive into future of Subsea Robotics
Call for speakers open for ocean robotics event
Global Underwater Hub’s (GUH) annual Underwater Robotics Conference is returning to Aberdeen for another year – and companies are being asked to share their expertise in the development of subsea robotic technologies.
Taking place in the event auditorium at GUH’s premises in Westhill on Thursday, 27 November, this one-day event will bring together individuals with a vested interest in the development and application of underwater robotic technology.
Underwater robotics have become an essential tool within the energy sector and are used in many marine operations, including oil and gas, offshore renewables, defence, ocean science and aquaculture. The conference programme has been developed in collaboration with GUH’s recently established Underwater Robotics Forum, which includes representatives from leading subsea service providers, technology manufacturers and inspection tooling specialists.
Neil Gordon, Chief Executive of the GUH, said: “Our Underwater Robotics Conference is a regular marker for the rapid pace of change in the sector. Technological development is increasing dramatically, and we must be prepared for the future.
“Delegates at the Underwater Robotics Conference 2025 will have the opportunity to hear directly from the leading figures in subsea robotics who are charting the course of innovation. This is particularly important as artificial intelligence and autonomous and remotely operated vehicle technologies open up a wealth of possibilities, creating new efficiencies and supporting the wider energy transition.”
To highlight the progress made across the year, GUH is looking for individuals and organisations to present at the conference.
Delivering a presentation at the event is an opportunity for those working in the underwater robotics and autonomous and unmanned underwater vehicles space to showcase their expertise and lead the debate on the future of the industry.
Those interested in applying should submit a 200–300-word abstract that highlights successful case studies on how robotics hardware or peripherals have been used to help resolve an underwater problem, or identifies challenges faced by operators or developers that could be overcome by using robotics technology.
Insurance firms, regulators and permitting bodies are also invited to present in order to examine considerations for the use and application of underwater robotics.
The deadline to submit an abstract is Friday, 31 October at 3pm. Discounted registration rates for the event are available for GUH members. Conference bookings will close for attendees on Friday, 21 November at 12pm.
To register to attend the Underwater Robotics Conference or to submit an abstract, visit https://www.globalunderwaterhub.com/events/event/?id=Underwater_Robotics_Conference_2025204340094
To enquire about sponsorship opportunities at the event, contact [email protected]
Introducing UITC Ping: Online event for underwater telemetry set for 5th November
The UK & Ireland Telemetry Community (UITC) unites once again for 2025. This year, RS Aqua and Innovasea are introducing ‘UITC Ping’, a fully online event for the community.
The inaugural UITC event, ‘Connecting UITC’ took place in Portsmouth back in 2023. Last year, a successive event was held in the historical docks of Belfast. The experience over the years has strengthened fish tracking networks, provided insights into local research initiatives and heard innovative product developments from RS Aqua and Innovasea.
This year, taking place on November 5th, ‘UITC Ping’ brings the community online for our first ever digital event. Researchers will lead the event with fast-paced, insightful presentations on their latest projects followed by updates from RS Aqua and long-term partner Innovasea.
UITC is inviting submissions for exciting telemetry projects within the community. The top 10 projects will then be offered the chance to stage a quick-fire presentation in front of the community. Abstracts can be submitted until Friday 10th October at the following link: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/c23JSJ7Nnq
After the presentations, the community will have the chance to vote! The top three researchers will get their hands on some amazing prizes including the latest and greatest equipment from
Innovasea.
Sign up for UITC Ping here
The next in-person event, Connecting UITC 2026, will take place in Scotland on Wednesday 4th November 2026.
THS:UKI are thrilled to announce the Conference Programme for HYDRO 2025
The HYDRO 2025 International Conference and Exhibition will be held at the Rum Warehouse, Titanic Hotel Liverpool on the 28th - 30th October 2025 and will bring together the global seabed mapping community. The conference provides a platform for professionals, researchers, and students to share innovative research, technological advancements, and best practices in the field of hydrography and seabed mapping.
Day 1: Innovation in Hydrographic Efficiency, Automation & Coastal Intelligence
Driving Innovation in Hydrography: From Data to Coastal Decision-Making
Day 2: Expanding Capability through Data, Partnerships & Research
Advancing Hydrographic Frontiers: From Field Operations to Global Mapping
Day 3: Autonomous Systems, Operational Excellence, and Future Ocean
Hydrographic Innovation for Autonomous, Efficient, and Future-Ready Oceans
Featuring international experts from a range of backgrounds.
Join them as they bring together the global seabed mapping community!
For more information, visit: HYDRO 2025 Exhibition & Sponsor
For tickets, visit: HYDRO 2025 Ticket
For Conference Programme, visit: HYDRO25 Conference Programme
Project Management for Marine Survey Course Returns in September
When we first teamed up with Suffolk Survey & Subsea Services Ltd (S4) earlier this year, our aim was simple: to offer training that genuinely makes a difference. Following the success of our first course in February, we’re pleased to announce that it will return to Birmingham in September 2025.
The Project Management for Marine Survey course isn’t just another training session. It’s a practical opportunity to step away from day-to-day operations, gain new insights, and strengthen the skills that matter offshore. Whether you’re already managing projects or preparing to take the next step, this course provides an opportunity for reflection, connection, and growth, leaving you feeling confident and well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
Location: Somerset House, 37 Temple Street, Birmingham B2 5DP
Dates: 16–18 September 2025
Cost: £849 (excluding travel and accommodation)
Bookings and enquiries: [email protected]
Where It All Began
In February 2025, eleven professionals joined us from across the offshore industry. Each participant brought a wealth of experience and left with new knowledge, renewed confidence, and a clearer sense of direction.
Led by Arron Burrows, Director at S4 and a highly respected figure in the sector, the course offers a unique opportunity to learn from someone with decades of hands-on experience in offshore survey and project delivery. With over 38 years of experience in hydrographic survey, inspection, telecoms, renewables, and more, Arron’s approach is grounded, straightforward, and informed by years of working offshore.
“Arron is very approachable and personable,” said Chris Cain, one of our attendees. “A great few days and lots to take away and apply to my career.” This positive feedback from past attendees is a testament to the quality and value of the course, leaving you reassured and confident in your decision to join us.
For Phillip Wilding, the course offered direction and momentum: “The content clearly and concisely bridged experiences from offshore projects, enabling me to continue personal development into offshore PM roles. I would highly recommend it.”
What You’ll Learn
Returning to Somerset House in central Birmingham, this three-day course will cover essential project management topics, including:
- Communication and professionalism
- Project planning, resourcing, and cost control
- Client liaison and document management
- Risk assessments, PRINCE2 principles, and contract awareness
The sessions combine structure with flexibility. There’s space to discuss, question, and share your own experiences. The focus is always on what’s useful with tools you can take back and use straight away.
“It felt more like a conversation than a lecture,” one participant said. “There was room to speak openly and learn from others in the room.”
As with our previous course, it won’t just be about the classroom. On Wednesday evening, we’re planning an informal networking and entertainment event in the Flight Club as part of the experience, providing participants with an opportunity to connect, share ideas, and unwind in a relaxed setting. It’s a valuable opportunity to build industry relationships that last well beyond the course itself.
Why We’re Running It Again
Because there’s real value in this kind of learning—practical, focused, and grounded in the offshore environment, the feedback from February’s course was overwhelmingly positive. It was clear that more professionals are seeking training that addresses the realities of working offshore.
Anthony Williams, Technical Manager at Elevate Offshore, shared his perspective on the company’s commitment to training: “At Elevate Offshore, we firmly believe that success in the offshore sector hinges on cultivating knowledge, skills, and expertise. We dedicate ourselves to helping our people and industry contractors develop through high-quality training and meaningful career growth opportunities. By offering courses like this, we ensure that offshore professionals have access to the training they need to advance their careers and thrive in an ever-evolving industry.”
To reserve your place or learn more, contact [email protected]
Training course can help UK become leader in environmental monitoring
Robotics scientists who say the UK could become a global leader in environmental monitoring by embracing technology already available have launched a new course to train others.
The Scientific Robotics Academy, based at the Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS) in Oban and part-funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, will demonstrate the capabilities of a range of robotics systems during its training course between 3rd – 5th September.
The course, Environmental Monitoring using Multi-Platform Technology, is designed to benefit those with a responsibility for environmental monitoring, including landowners, planners, NGOs and third sector organisations and researchers.
SAMS robotics lead Dr Phil Anderson said: “Scotland, and the wider UK is ideally placed, in terms of location and technology readiness, to become the global leader in environmental monitoring.
“The Scientific Robotics Academy is pioneering marine robotics education and innovation to prepare the next generation of users of autonomous platforms. We also exist to engage current engineers in conversations about robotics platform and sensor needs and challenges of the marine science and environmental management community.
“On the course, users will learn about the preparation and application of robotic platforms and sensor technology to monitor and manage rapidly changing environments. The way we monitor the environment is changing too and we want to make sure the people with this very important role have the skills they need.”
The hands-on training will be delivered by experts in their field and provide a comprehensive overview of environmental monitoring spanning terrestrial, coastal and marine activities.
The course will cover practical elements from mission planning and legislative requirements to sensor types and data processing.
Argyll and Bute Council has supported the development of the Scientific Robotics Academy through access to the Shared Prosperity Fund.
Councillor Math Campbell-Sturgess, Argyll and Bute Council’s Policy Lead for Business Development, said: "UKSPF funding has been invaluable in enabling us to deliver additional support for local businesses, people and skills and further investment in our communities.
“Argyll and Bute is ideally located to position Scotland as a pioneering force for innovation through robotics testing and training. Innovation partnerships, such as Limosaero's visit to SAMS to test sensors on their solar powered drone at Oban Airport, has further demonstrated the growing capability of technology to improve connectivity with remote island communities, and deliver time- and cost-savings for users.
“Bridging the gap between those that develop these advancing technologies and the end users has never been more important, and the robotics academy is the perfect enabler.”
The three-day course, Environmental Monitoring using Multi-Platform Technology, has been CPD-recognised by IMarEST – the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology. For more information on the upcoming course and to apply for a place, see: Courses — Scottish Association for Marine Science, Oban UK
As well as offering additional person discounts for multiple places purchased, thanks to the generous support of BlueFloat Energy | Nadara Partnership, there are also six part-sponsored places on the course. Details for this can also be found on the course webpage (https://www.sams.ac.uk/robotics/academy/sponsored-places/).
Uncrewed Survey Solutions (USS) Announces Expansion With Key Appointments Driven By Organisational Growth
Uncrewed Survey Solutions (USS), the USV innovator and marine data acquisition provider, has announced three key appointments in support of its ongoing growth strategy.
Mike Casey has joined USS’ Advisory Board, with Trish Buxton joining in the newly formed role of Business Development Manager, and Liam Eagling as Field Engineer.
USS’ new team will help USS’ service delivery and develop its in-house USV manufacturing, together with enhanced customer support, in line with the business’ expansion strategy.
As a builder-operator of its own fleet of uncrewed surface vessels (USVs), USS delivers customised marine data collection projects and missions primarily across the hydrographic
and geophysical domains.
Mike Casey has joined USS’ Advisory Board to support the senior management team, shape the organisational strategy, and to help develop the business’ offerings.
Mike is the Founder of Portico Advisers, a consultancy that advises global investors and entrepreneurs across six systems: technology, energy, health, food, carbon, and mobility. He built a client portfolio of firms managing $60 billion in assets and advised on more than $4 billion of transactions. He specialises in identifying high-conviction opportunities, shaping strategic direction, and positioning firms for growth and catalytic sales. Mike has a background in defence strategy. He has an MA in International Relations & International Economics, and has been featured in The Financial Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Economist, Bloomberg, and Fast Company.
Trish Buxton has joined USS in the newly formed role of Business Development Manager. Trish is responsible for driving business growth by expanding its reach and identifying new opportunities, together with contributing to the development of new products to match market needs.
Trish was previously Regional Sales Manager at Teledyne Geospatial (CARIS/Optech), specialising in geomatics. Prior to this, Trish worked within the Offshore Survey Industry as a Data Processor and Cartographer for Racal Survey/Thales Geosolutions onshore and offshore. With a lifetime interest in oceanographic surveying, Trish has a Degree in Physical Geography with Mapping Science.
Liam Eagling has joined USS as a Field Engineer, having previously worked for USS on placement whilst studying for his Renewable Energy Engineering Degree as a mature student following a decision to pursue his passion for the sector.
He comments: “Having previously undertaken a Royal Academy of Engineering Research Internship where I compared measured and modelled wave data that then evolved into analytically manipulating complex datasets, working with USS reinforces just how much I relish being at the intersection of engineering and real-world application with marine technologies and the practical demands of field work.”
James Williams, USS’ CEO and Founder comments: “We are delighted to welcome this new and exciting cohort to USS. Mike, Trish, and Liam bring unique and diverse skillsets to USS with their new perspectives, approach, and knowledge.”
He continues: “Their specific areas of expertise complement our existing team in the focus to enhance operations and productivity, support our growing customer-base, and to
springboard USS to further success.”
Delivering turnkey 24/7 hydrographic surveying and marine data acquisition solutions for Line-of-Sight (LOS) and Beyond-Line-of-Sight (BLOS) projects, USS supports its customers in their transition from traditional crewed surveying operations to the utilisation of smaller, uncrewed craft such as USS’ Accession Class USV (pictured).
Visit www.uncrewedsurveysolutions.com to find out more.