Women In Science Expedition

**Summary**
The Women in Science Expedition (WISE) 2024, conducted from 22–30 September, marked a significant milestone in promoting marine research and capacity building for Pacific women. Led by the Cook Islands Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA), the eight-day voyage aboard MV Anuanua Moana focused on environmental sampling, biodiversity studies, and hands-on training for 15 participants.

Objectives

1) Facilitate Knowledge Transfer: Enable seasoned deep-sea marine scientists to share their expertise with others;

2) Promote Gender Diversity: Ensure that at least 50% of our science team consists of women from the Southwest Pacific across all levels, with an anticipated composition of around 80% female members;

3) Offer Diverse Experiences: Provide both at-sea and shore-based opportunities for hands-on involvement;

4) Deliver Unique Research Opportunities: Include groundbreaking research initiatives, not limited to training exercises;

5) Enhance Public Awareness: Increase understanding of deep-sea environments, focusing on the potential of seabed minerals, exploration efforts, and the protection of habitats and biodiversity.

WISE Sites

Activities

Sea survival and personal safety training

Key Achievements

Empowerment of Women: 80% of trainees were female

Hands-On Learning: Participants gained practical experience and leadership in marine research.

Successful Sampling: Box corers, multi-corers, and baited cameras collected valuable data on the seabed and marine life.

Practical & Resourceful: Showcased cost-effective, short expeditions using local resources and conference opportunities.

Sample Processing

Sample analysis is still underway, as organizations are generously contributing their time and resources, fitting the work around other projects. With WISE operating on a limited budget, this collaborative effort ensures the data is processed despite funding constraints.

Capacity Building

Participants gained hands-on experience with seabed sampling equipments, enhancing their technical skills while building leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities.

Notably, some trainees stepped into Chief and Lead Scientist roles. The Chief Scientist led project planning before the expedition and oversaw its execution at sea. Five trainees served as Lead Scientists, each managing specific equipment—overseeing deployment, recovery, processing, and sample storage at designated sites.

By working alongside experts, participants built the confidence and expertise to lead future ocean research, ensuring lasting benefits for local and regional marine science.