New partnership to boost marine science and innovation in Scotland

Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) and the Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aiming to expand collaboration in marine science and innovation.

According to the two organisations, the agreement will support pioneering research and technological development, while promoting Argyll and Bute as a global centre for marine innovation and as a location for study and employment.

"This will underpin efforts to strengthen island and rural economies and the long-term prosperity of the Highlands and Islands region," the organisations said in a joint press announcement, noting that the Highlands and Islands is home to 86% of Scotland’s coastline, with its economy and thousands of jobs closely tied to the sea through industries such as aquaculture, offshore renewables, fishing and marine tourism.

The signing took place at the European Marine Science Park (EMSP) at Dunstaffnage near Oban on Thursday 28 August. HIE has been developing the EMSP for more than a decade as a hub for marine science businesses, with construction currently underway on an £8.1 million, 1,500-square-metre expansion to meet growing demand for office and laboratory space.

HIE chief executive Stuart Black said the collaboration would help ensure Scotland’s marine resources are used responsibly. “The marine environment is becoming more and more significant as a resource, not just at local and regional levels but nationally as Scotland and the UK pursue their net zero aspirations," he said.

"The Highlands and Islands is at the heart of growth industries like aquaculture, offshore renewables and marine tourism, most of which is underpinned by world-class scientific research and development. We need to make sure this vital resource is used sustainably and in ways that make the most positive difference. That’s one of the reasons our working relationship with SAMS is so important," Black added.

“The signing of this MoU will further strengthen the long-held partnership between SAMS and HIE, which has helped the region to establish itself as a focal point for the emerging blue economy," said SAMS director, Professor Nick Owens.

"This agreement comes at a crucial time for SAMS as we develop our long-term strategy, SAMS 2050, and I look forward to working with HIE on developing this," Owens stated.