A new channel for knowledge exchange between expert, independent researchers – and businesses, authorities and stakeholders seeking to work with the ocean.
* Counsel (noun · OED) Advice, guidance; opinion or recommendation as to what ought to be done, esp. when given in response to consultation.
Prolific oceans, with strong ecosystems that support life in the long term, require the best available knowledge to be applied in decision-making and development. Many stakeholders are seeking a deeper understanding of how they can work with nature, for the benefit of all—humans and entire ecosystems.
Our core offering is helping stakeholders extract critical insights from the vast body of peer-reviewed research, by connecting them with experienced researchers who can interpret and apply existing knowledge to new scenarios. We clarify the current state of knowledge—including scholarly disagreement, uncertainty, and gaps—and clearly distinguish empirical findings from interpretation.
We help you clearly define the request – the question(s), the scope, and form of deliverable.
We connect you with an experienced marine researcher whose field, methods and recent work fit your request.
The first dialogue with the researcher takes place within days. An intro call is arranged if either side finds it useful.
A clear evidence-synthesis, translation of knowledge to your case, and assessments – with uncertainties and knowledge gaps reported.
Single days, several weeks, or long-term contracts with continuous access to expertise, depending on your specific needs and limitations.
We are assembling a comprehensive network of independent academic experts covering the broad spectrum of marine research disciplines, and our commitment is to connect every request with highly qualified specialists. Whether it is for highly specific technical questions, policy briefs or broader strategic challenges, we are here to help.
A few representative cases from across the marine spectrum. Click any card to see the full brief – the goal, challenge, request and deliverable.
Standard foundation designs can resuspend particles continuously, suffocating seabed organisms and creating barren “dead zones” unattractive to fish and other mobile life.
What conditions and features are required for relevant bottom fauna to thrive? Scientific input is requested on the design of foundation structures, as well as support for the development of artificial reef structures adapted to the local environment and foundations.
Clear evidence-synthesis of key local species and environmental constraints, including an assessment of potential ecological effects and of conservation measures for the specific scenario. Based on these findings we propose design adaptations and concrete recommendations for the design of habitat-enhancing structures and artificial reefs, covering material selection, surface complexity, placement, and other relevant considerations. Recommendations are based on existing evidence and expert knowledge, supported by client data and relevant databases where applicable.
Develop a scientifically rigorous and feasible environmental monitoring plan for a dredging operation, or any other risky marine intervention.
Many widespread monitoring methodologies fail to meet robust scientific standards, and even miss out on critical risk points. Researchers with documented experience in comparable ecosystems and a track record of peer-reviewed publications are generally best suited to design such plans. *We exist to make this the new norm.
Design a suite of scientifically sound environmental monitoring strategies that comprises:
1) a minimum acceptable strategy
2) a recommended, best-practice strategy
3) a maximum precautionary, high-resolution strategy
At least three different strategies are suggested, with varying degree of temporal and spatial resolution. Recommendations for equipment, sampling methods and data analysis.
Adapt development plans to minimize risks and enhance the marine coastal environment.
Standardized best-practice guidelines and recommendations occasionally fall short when applied to real-world development plans and spatial plans. Navigating complex and fragmented scientific evidence, and translating findings into context-specific designs and decisions is highly challenging.
Assess expected environmental risks and impacts associated with proposed methods, materials or structure, and propose measures that can reduce negative impacts and, where possible, enhance ecological function. Provide concrete recommendations on how specific structures and interventions can be designed or leveraged to support the local marine environment.
Concrete and context-specific recommendations on how planned structures and interventions can be designed or leveraged to support the local marine environment.
We are always open to welcoming new researchers into the network.
If you are an experienced marine researcher who wants to make your expertise available for evidence-based decision-making, and would like to receive targeted requests, we’d love to hear from you. Joining the network involves no obligation – you only work on projects you choose to accept. The ocean knows no borders, and neither should valuable scientific expertise – which is why we work internationally.
Tell us briefly about your project, challenge or area of interest, and where expert input could be valuable. Anything from highly technical questions to broader strategic issues is welcome. We’ll get back to you within a few days to explore how we can help.