The Sars International Centre for Marine Molecular Biology: investing in basic marine research to ensure the future of Norway’s fisheries
Norway is a leader in Europe in both fisheries and in aquaculture. The research focus within fisheries thus far, has been related to production and catch size. Scientists are gradually becoming more concerned with understanding the fundamental life processes in the sea.
Background
Following the evaluation of marine research in the early 90’s, the Norwegian authorities realised the importance of strengthening research efforts aimed at increasing the understanding of the fundamental life processes in the sea. Four years ago the Norwegian Research Council decided to address this need by establishing a research centre devoted to basic research in this area called the Sars Centre.
While efforts in applied research continue to form a major part of Norwegian research initiatives, basic research at specialised institutes, such as the Sars Centre is also important. Daniel Chourrout, the leader of the Sars Centre, explains that development based on new knowledge is critical to many sectors, including medicine and agriculture. He points out that the fishery industry has not focused on basic research as much as other industrial sectors. As a result, little is known about most marine organisms, including information about their life cycles and their inter-relationships within the marine ecosystem. This knowledge is critical in order to ensure long term sustainability in the exploitation of marine resources.
Interestingly, many of life’s innovations come from the sea. Most of the current knowledge about genetics and molecular biology, however, comes from studies with land animals. Researchers lack basic knowledge about marine organisms. Few marine species have been studied in any great detail, and this is a lack that must be addressed, says Chourrout.
If Norway intends to invest more, for example, into breeding and farming shellfish, then there is a huge demand for more general understanding of the biology of these animals. Without such knowledge, the shellfish industry will be unable to protect itself from the attacks of viruses or parasites. For example, consider the need to understand the invertebrate immune system. Invertebrates do not have antibodies in their immune system. This means that they cannot be vaccinated to protect them against diseases. Thus more basic information about the biology of these animals will be critical to a successful farming programme.
Molecular biology is currently developing an evolutionary perspective. In the early 80’s it was discovered that animals share common developmental mechanisms. The challenge, today, is to try to understand the genetic differences, which make distant animals so different in their body plans and functions. Marine organisms will play a very central role in this development as new discoveries are announced.
Proposed CoE group members and current scientific / research activities
During its short lifetime, foreign evaluators have stated that the Sars Centre has positioned itself as a flagship in marine molecular biology with its use of two animal model systems, the zooplankton organism, Oikopleura dioca and the Zebrafish. Unlike many of the other research groups who are applying for CoE status, the Sars Centre is already established. Chourrout underlines that the Centre already has its staff in place, as well as a physical infrastructure for the research activities.
One of the Sars Centre’s goals is to recruit young researchers having a background in molecular biology combined with knowledge in marine biology. Unfortunately, marine research is not a first choice among young researchers today, says Chourrout, and we are hoping to help change this. Masters and doctoral students both at Bergen and other Norwegian cities, are taught by Sars Centre researchers. The Sars Centre also participates in the international student network called the Marie Curie Training Sites programme.
(see the web sites listed below for more information about current activities at the Sars Centre)
What if they were granted CoE status?
The Sars Centre is applying for CoE status to ensure their ability to continue to focus on basic research. The researchers feel strongly that such research will benefit marine industries. Being awarded CoE status is of great importance to the Sars Centre’s continued development. Up until now, the Sars Centre has been supported by funds from the Norwegian Research Council, and the Ministry of Education (KUF), as well as UiB, which is largely responsible for the centre’s infrastructure.
Chourrout points out that there are two groups from Bergen participating in the second round of the CoE selection process that have a focus on the marine environment. He feels that the two groups represent complementary projects, and that it would be exciting if both groups were to be awarded CoE status.
If it is granted CoE status, the Sars Centre will gradually establish its own doctoral programme, in collaboration with at least two foreign institutions. Currently, most doctoral students register with either the Molecular Biology Institute or the Institute of Fisheries and Marine Biology. Unfortunately, Marine Molecular Biology is not currently a major course of study at either of these institutes.