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How to Engage With, and Have Impact on, Marine Governance: A Practical Guide for Early-Career Researchers

Author

Listed:
  • Denis B. Karcher

    (Anthropocene Laboratory, Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, Sweden)

  • Christopher Cvitanovic

    (Centre for Marine Science and Innovation, University of New South Wales, Australia / Business School, University of New South Wales, Australia)

  • Melanie C. Austen

    (School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, UK)

  • Aislinn F. Dunne

    (General Organization for Conservation of Coral Reefs and Turtles in the Red Sea (SHAMS), Saudi Arabia)

  • Louisa Evans

    (Department of Geography, University of Exeter, UK)

  • Rebecca Gruby

    (Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Miami, USA / Robert K. Johnson Center for Marine Conservation, University of Miami, USA)

  • Nicole Malinconico

    (Global Water Institute, University of New South Wales, Australia / Centre for Nature Positive Solutions, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, Australia)

  • Shannon McLaughlin

    (Environmental Policy Group, Wageningen University & Research, The Netherlands)

  • E. J. Milner-Gulland

    (Department of Biology, University of Oxford, UK)

  • Nathalie A. Steins

    (Wageningen Marine Research, Wageningen University & Research, The Netherlands)

Abstract

Early-career researchers (ECRs) are at the forefront of producing the knowledge and solutions needed to address contemporary ocean challenges. Their work is often highly inter- and transdisciplinary, generating insights that are critical for informed decision-making, and effective and equitable marine governance. Yet, despite this potential for impact, many ECRs lack access to the tools, training, and institutional support necessary to engage meaningfully with governance processes. Such structural complexities are further compounded by practical constraints that ECRs experience such as short project timelines and limited networks, making engagement with governance particularly intimidating and/or difficult for ECRs. This commentary seeks to empower ECRs against this background by addressing eight frequently asked questions about how ECRs in marine sciences can enhance their impact on marine governance. By equipping emerging researchers with actionable guidance drawn from experience, we hope to strengthen the science–policy interface and empower the next generation of researchers to contribute to more informed and legitimate marine governance.

Suggested Citation

  • Denis B. Karcher & Christopher Cvitanovic & Melanie C. Austen & Aislinn F. Dunne & Louisa Evans & Rebecca Gruby & Nicole Malinconico & Shannon McLaughlin & E. J. Milner-Gulland & Nathalie A. Steins, 2026. "How to Engage With, and Have Impact on, Marine Governance: A Practical Guide for Early-Career Researchers," Ocean and Society, Cogitatio Press, vol. 3.
    • Handle: RePEc:cog:ocesoc:v3:y:2026:a:12874
    DOI: 10.17645/oas.12874
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