I believe that several key decisions and experiences have shaped my career path in marine science. Voluntary work was a huge advantage, as it gave me valuable hands-on experience and opened up new opportunities. For example, I participated in two student research surveys, one with Eurofleets and another with SmartSeaSchools. I also completed my diving qualifications, knowing that this skill would be useful in future roles. In addition, I undertook an internship in an area I was particularly interested in, which then led to a research assistant position. I strongly believe that getting involved in extracurricular activities gave me an important advantage, as they provided me with additional skills and experiences that secondary school or university alone could not offer.

Growing up, I was always drawn to the ocean, spending most weekends and summers by the sea. My Granddad had a big influence on this, as some of my best memories are of taking the boat out with him and watching dolphins swim alongside us on the west coast of Galway. Those moments sparked a lifelong fascination with the ocean and played a key role in shaping my decision to pursue a career in marine science.

I saw my current job advertised online on LinkedIn and applied for it. I got offered an interview and a few days later I was told I was the successful applicant.

My workdays and weeks can vary quite a lot. One day I might be coding and analysing datasets, the next I could be onboard a research vessel collecting various types of data. Everything I do contributes to the bigger picture of providing science-based advice to support the sustainable future of our marine resources. On a typical day, however, I spend most of my time working on my computer, analysing data, interpreting results, and writing reports.

In my job, I help collect, prepare, and analyse scientific data that supports fisheries management. Some of my main activities include:

Preparing and organising data for international scientific groups and data requests.

Working with information on Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems (VMEs) and Nephrops (Norway Lobster).

Taking part in research surveys at sea, such as: Underwater video surveys, where we use cameras on the seabed to study Nephrops burrows to calculate their abundance and collect data on other species living on the seabed. Fisheries surveys, where catch data are collected and biological samples are taken to provide information for research and to assess the condition of fish stocks.

These activities contribute to assessing the health of fish stocks and protecting sensitive marine habitats, which helps the organisation give scientific advice for sustainable fisheries.

Fieldwork at sea is one of the main challenges of my role. Research surveys often involve long hours, unpredictable weather, and demanding conditions, but they are also rewarding because they push me and help me stay adaptable.

What I really like about my job is the opportunity to work at sea. Living and working on a research vessel can be challenging, but it’s also one of the most exciting parts of the job. I also enjoy the chance to travel as part of my work, meeting new people and seeing different places.

Data management / attention to detail: I’m careful with data, because accuracy is really important when it’s used to make decisions about fish stocks.

Organisation and time management: I’m organised and able to meet deadlines, since data calls and reports often have strict timelines.

In secondary school, for my Leaving Certificate I chose Biology as one of my optional subjects, and that’s the one that really stood to me for my career, along with the compulsory subjects like English and Maths. Looking back, I think Agricultural Science would also have been a good choice because it overlaps with what I do now. If I had the chance again, I’d also consider Computer Science, because a lot of statistical software involves coding, or Geography, which links closely with the environmental work I do. These subjects would all have been very relevant for the type of job I have today.

I went to secondary school in Oranmore, Galway. After school, I studied Applied Freshwater and Marine Biology at ATU Galway, which was a four-year degree course. Later, I went on to complete a PhD in Marine Science, where I focused on microplastic pollution. That research gave me experience in both fieldwork and lab work, as well as data analysis, which are all skills I use in my job today.

At ATU Galway, the Applied Freshwater and Marine Biology course really set me up for a career in marine science because it gave me so much practical experience compared to other courses. It wasn’t just one module that stood out, but the hands-on aspect overall. For example, as part of my degree I had the chance to go out on the Marine Institute’s research vessels before I even started working there, which was directly relevant for my job.

One of the most rewarding parts of my career so far has been taking part in research surveys at sea. It’s a great feeling to know that the data we collect directly contributes to the scientific advice used to manage fisheries sustainably.

I think some of the personal qualities that help me in my career are being organised and reliable, which are important when working with large datasets and tight deadlines. I’m also adaptable and resilient, especially useful when working at sea in challenging conditions. Teamwork is another big one, because so much of my job involves collaborating with others, whether on research vessels or in international groups.

My job allows me to have a lifestyle that I am happy with. At the Marine Institute, there are clear opportunities for progression, and continuous training ensures that I am always developing my skills and knowledge. I also have the chance to travel to international working groups or training courses, which not only broadens my professional experience but also allows me to explore new places. In addition, the option to work partly from home provides flexibility and a good work–life balance. Overall, my role offers both professional growth and the lifestyle benefits that are important to me.

My advice to someone considering this job would be to take every opportunity to get experience during your degree, whether that’s work placements, volunteering, or extra projects. Those experiences really make you stand out later on.

Adaptability: conditions at sea and even the data we work with can change quickly, so you need to be able to adjust.

Teamwork: so much of the job is done with others, both on research vessels and in international groups, so working well with people is essential.

Attention to detail: when preparing data for scientific advice, accuracy really matters, and small mistakes can make a big difference.

I’ve undertaken training as part of my job and I plan to continue upskilling. For example, I’ve completed mandatory courses like Personal Survival Training for going to sea, and training in using underwater video survey methods.

Practical placements or internships during your degree in marine biology, ecology, or environmental science. Any hands-on work with data collection, lab work, or field surveys is really useful. One great example is the Marine Institute’s bursary programme. It gives undergraduate students 8-12 weeks of practical work experience in areas like data management, benthic monitoring, fish sampling, ecological monitoring, etc.

Scientific and Technical Officer (Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems and Nephrops Assessments) at the Marine Institute Ireland.