The MOMM – Multiscale Oceanography: From Micro to Macro course is an advanced international training program designed to equip emerging ocean scientists with the knowledge, tools, and interdisciplinary mindset required to understand and respond to the complexity of marine systems in a rapidly changing world.
Spanning the full spectrum of ocean science — from genes to global circulation, from molecular interactions to biogeochemical cycles and ecosystem-scale patterns — MOMM delivers a comprehensive and integrative approach. The course combines theoretical modules, hands-on laboratory training, offshore expeditions, and computational tools, creating a powerful learning environment that connects experimental, observational, and modeling techniques across spatial and temporal scales.
You're free to attend the online module of this course independently. By doing so you're establishing priority to access the presential part of this course for its next edition!
Enroll now!
What can you expect?
Participants will be immersed in topics such as marine genomics, biogeochemistry, ecotoxicology, plankton ecology, deep-sea processes, physical oceanography, acoustic and visual survey monitoring, remote sensing, and environmental data science. Throughout the course, they will work with real-world datasets, cutting-edge instruments, and international experts, fostering applied research skills and critical thinking.
A central highlight of the program is the fieldwork component, including offshore sampling cruises aboard the Research Vessel MarUAlg, operated by the University of Algarve. During these expeditions, students will gain practical experience in the collection of plankton, water, sediment, and benthic samples, while learning to operate oceanographic instruments in real environmental settings.
In addition, participants will join dedicated surveys for the observation of marine megafauna, including cetaceans and large pelagic species, using visual and acoustic monitoring techniques to explore marine biodiversity and behavior in situ.
Whether on board a research vessel, in a molecular biology lab, or behind a data modeling interface, MOMM offers not just technical training, but an opportunity to join a vibrant international community of scientists united by a shared commitment to advancing ocean knowledge and sustainability.
Important note: For safety and comfort during laboratory and field activities, participants are required to bring closed-toe shoes and long pants. If possible, please also bring a lab coat and personal laptop. For the boat expeditions, we recommend bringing sunscreen, sun protection (hat, sunglasses).
Partners
This initiative is supported by multiple partners (see support and sponsors), to ensure a comprehensive theoretical, laboratory and field training and limited financial support to developing countries participants, reinforcing global equity and capacity building in ocean science. MOMM is also aligned with the goals of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development and integrated into the framework of SEA-EU – European University of the Seas, promoting international cooperation, educational excellence, and sustainable marine innovation.
To whom?
Undergraduate, MSc and PhD students, and early-career researchers in ocean and environmental sciences.
Course Structure
The MOMM course unfolds across two dynamic phases, a virtual theoretical immersion and an intensive in-person field and laboratory training, offering participants a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of modern ocean science.
Practical Highlights
• Two full days of marine fieldwork, alternating between sampling campaigns and megafauna observation cruises
• Technical visit to the Portuguese Blue Biobank, showcasing marine biodiversity preservation and innovation in bioresources
• Rotating laboratory stations in chemical, molecular, and optical analysis
• Hands-on workshops in acoustic monitoring, ecological modeling, and remote data acquisition
• Direct mentorship from internationally recognized scientists and marine institutions
Tools and Approaches
- Multiscale Environmental Data Analysis: From molecular pathways to ocean-basin circulation, participants will learn to interpret data across biological, chemical, and physical scales, enabling a systems-level understanding of marine processes.
- Cross-Platform Data Integration: The course emphasizes the synthesis of heterogeneous datasets, including satellite imagery, in situ sensor outputs, numerical model simulations, and experimental measurements—bridging observation, modeling, and experimentation.
- Ecological and Oceanographic Modelling & Visualisation: Students will be introduced to advanced modeling tools and dynamic data visualization techniques to simulate environmental scenarios, detect patterns, and communicate scientific findings effectively.
- Interdisciplinary Scientific Frameworks: MOMM is rooted in the convergence of multiple scientific domains—genomics, biogeochemistry, ecotoxicology, ocean physics, climate science, and ecological theory—offering a truly transdisciplinary research perspective.
- Collaborative and Applied Problem Solving: Through case studies, group activities, and applied research challenges, participants will engage in collaborative approaches that foster teamwork, critical analysis, and real-world decision-making skills.
Online module: Building foundations
The online phase provides a solid conceptual foundation in key areas of oceanography through lectures given by experts and interactive sessions. It is designed to connect disciplines, stimulate critical thinking, and prepare participants for practical training. The main topics include:
- Marine chemistry and environmental stress factors
- Seafloor geochemistry and paleoceanography
- Plankton and benthos ecology
- Marine ecotoxicology and biomarkers
- Molecular, genomic and physiological tools
- Monitoring of harmful algal blooms (HAB) and biotoxins
- Optical imaging and microscopy
- Fishing and marine megafauna (cetaceans, sharks, etc.)
- Oceanographic instrumentation and physical oceanography
- Citizen science, data science and scientific communication
You're free to attend the online module of this course independently. By doing so you're establishing priority to access the presential part of this course for its next edition!
Classroom module: Applied Oceanography
Held at CCMAR and the University of Algarve in Faro, Portugal, the in-person phase immerses participants in applied marine research through fieldwork, laboratory sessions, and data analysis. Participants will interact directly with instruments, protocols, and environmental data. The main areas of focus include:
- Oceanographic sampling aboard MarUAlg
- Techniques for collecting water, plankton, sediments and benthos
- Observation of marine megafauna, including cetaceans and pelagic fauna, using visual and acoustic monitoring
- Ecophysiology and biomarkers of marine organisms
- Remote sensing, satellite data and environmental modelling
- Pollution assessment and micropollutant monitoring
- Deep-sea and coastal processes
- Paleoclimatic reconstruction
- Molecular biology, optical imaging, and microscopy techniques
Coordination
Dr. Caio Cesar Ribeiro – Centro de Ciências do Mar (CCMAR)
Speakers and Lecturers
- Dr. Ana Aranda – AQUASERV - CCMAR, Portugal
- Dr. André Belém – UFF, Brasil
- Dr. Antje Voelker – IPMA, Portugal
- Dra. Breylla Carvalho - UNIFESP
- Dr. Caio Cesar Ribeiro – CCMAR, Portugal
- Dr. Carlos Sousa – IPMA, Portugal
- Dr. Carina Mónico – CCMAR, Portugal
- Dr. Cármen Sousa – CIMA/UAlg, Portugal
- Dr. Cícero Alves Lima Júnior – CCMAR, Portugal
- Dr. Christine Klaas – AWI, Alemanha
- Dr. David Abecasis – CCMAR/UAlg, Portugal
- Dr. Joana Cruz – CCMAR, Portugal
- Dr. João Cardoso – CCMAR/UAlg, Portugal
- Dr. Josep L. Pelegrí – ICM-CSIC, Espanha
- Dr. José Martinelli –UFPA, Brasil
- Dr. Kim Jonguk – KIOST, Coreia do Sul
- Dr. Lilian A. Krug – POGO & CCMAR, Portugal
- Dr. Luciano de Oliveira Júnior – UAlg, Portugal
- MSc. Ramiro Magno – PI, Portugal
- Dr. Nélia Mestre – CIMA/UAlg, Portugal
- Dr. Pasqualina Gaetano – CIMA/UAlg, Portugal
- Dr. Paulo Relvas - CCMAR/UAlg, Portugal
- Dr. Patricia Pinto – CCMAR/UAlg, Portugal
- Dr. Rita Abecasis – CCMAR, Portugal
- MSc. Rui Peres dos Santos – CCMAR / PI, Portugal
- Dr. Sandra Lage – CCMAR, Portugal
- Dr. Sofia Graça Aranha – UAlg, Portugal
- Dr. Sónia Cristina – CIMA/UAlg, Portugal
- Dr. Tainá Fonseca – CIMA/UAlg, Portugal
- Dr. Vânia Baptista – CCMAR, Portugal
CCMAR – Centro de Ciências do Mar do Algarve (Portugal)
UAlg – Universidade do Algarve (Portugal)
AWI – Alfred Wegener Institute for Polar and Marine Research (Alemanha)
CIMA – Centro de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental (Portugal)
ICM-CSIC – Instituto de Ciências Marinhas (Espanha)
IPMA – Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera (Portugal)
KIOST – Korea Institute of Ocean Science & Technology (Coreia do Sul)
PI - Pattern Institute (Portugal)
POGO – Partnership for Observation of the Global Ocean (POGO)
UFF – Universidade Federal Fluminense (Brasil)
UFPA – Universidade Federal do Pará (Brasil)
UFRJ – Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (Brasil)
Note: Minor adjustments to speaker names, institutions, or session times may occur due to schedule updates or institutional availability. The final programme will reflect these changes.
The MOMM course is proudly supported by a network of institutional partners and sponsors committed to advancing international education, scientific equity, and ocean literacy. These collaborations ensure the quality, accessibility, and operational excellence of the programme.
Confirmed support includes:
- POGO: Financial support for three participants from developing countries (see conditions below).
- SEA-EU – European University of the Seas: Provided access to the MarUAlg research vessel for offshore sampling and megafauna observation, enabling the practical component of the course.
- VWR International: Sponsored essential materials and consumables for laboratories, ensuring high-quality practical sessions in chemistry, molecular biology, microscopy, and ecotoxicology.
- BLIFE: Discounted accommodation for MOMM participants staying in Faro during the face-to-face phase of the course.
- SCOR: Financial support for the participation of students from developing countries.
Course Applications
This course incurs an associated fee. Three fully funded places will be awarded to outstanding candidates from Africa, Asia, Central America or South America. Please read the instructions carefully to ensure that you submit your application and supporting documents in a timely and complete manner.
We are actively seeking additional sponsorships to support the participation of candidates from developing countries. At present, with the generous support of POGO, three fully funded places are guaranteed and will be awarded to outstanding candidates from Africa, Asia, Central America, or South America.
Eligibility criteria – applicants must:
- Be a citizen, live, study or work in a country classified as a developing country or transition economy by the OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC), and located in Africa, Asia, Central America or South America. (see the full DAC list of eligible countries);
- Already have a valid passport or be in the process of obtaining one.
- Not require a visa to enter Portugal or already have a valid visa (proof must be provided at the time of application).
This financial support covers:
- International travel (by the most economical route);
- Local transport within Portugal;
- Accommodation and meals during the face-to-face phase;
- Full exemption from the registration fee.
Financial support does not cover:
- Passport issuance or renewal;
- Visa application fee or related consular fees;
- Personal expenses during the stay;
- Travel insurance (highly recommended, but not included)
All participants will receive an official certificate of participation (digital and/or printed) for the online and in-person phases. Total hours: 70 hours, 4 ECTS.
Fee Structure
| Category | Early bird (Until 5 Sept) | Full (After 5 Sept) |
| Full participation (Online + Onsite) | 200€ | 250€ |
| Online-only (Oct 1–3) | 50€ | 75€ |
| Economically vulnerable students* (self-declared – limited to 3 spots) | 150€ | 200€ |
| Full registration + Shared accommodation** (Casa Blife, Oct 5–11) – limited | 350€ | 400€ |
Economically vulnerable students* + Full registration + Shared accommodation** | 300€ | 350€ |
| *Economically vulnerable students are individuals who experience financial hardship that may limit their access to quality education, participation in academic programs, or ability to afford essential resources such as transportation, accommodation, learning materials, or internet access. **Limited shared accommodation at Casa BLife available for students participating in the onsite module. Dates covered: 5 to 11 October 2025. Includes: shared room and kitchen access | ||
Applications Deadline
20 August 2025 - Applicants are eligible and seeking financial support (see conditions below). [CLOSED]
5 September 2025 - Applicants not requesting financial support; Deadline to qualify for the early-bird discounted registration fee.
15 September 2025 - Final deadline (full registration fee) - Online registration will reopen on the 15th for remaining places.
Note: Applicants not requesting financial support will be evaluated on a rolling basis, so early submission is strongly encouraged. However, applications submitted after September 15th will not be accepted under any circumstances.
Evaluation: Applications will be evaluated by an independent panel of three experts in marine sciences and capacity development. Results will be communicated shortly after the selection period ends.
Once accepted, participants will receive a confirmation email with the necessary details to proceed with payment. To secure their spot in the course, they must complete the payment within the deadline indicated in the acceptance email.
How to apply:
Please be advised that, due to the high number of applications received, the application process has been closed. You can only participate in the online module of the course, which runs from 1 to 3 October. By doing so, you will be guaranteed priority access to the on site training module in the next edition of the course.
Sign me up for the online module!
Successful candidates, both scholarship recipients and paying students, will be notified between September 3 and 4, 2025.
We thank everyone for their interest and participation.
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