Latest news with #MartinVisbeck
Gulf Business
08-08-2025
- Science
- Gulf Business
OceanQuest's CEO on why deep-ocean science should be globally collaborative but locally relevant
Images: Supplied Saudi Arabia's At the helm is Professor Dr Martin Visbeck, a renowned oceanographer with nearly 40 years of experience. His career spans high-impact ocean-climate research, leadership in international initiatives like the UN Decade of Ocean Science, and a strong focus on using tech and collaboration to unlock the ocean's hidden potential. Now, as CEO of OceanQuest, he's setting out to drive innovation while supporting Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals and expanding the country's role in global marine science. Here, we chat with him about the organisation's vision and wider goals. What made you want to become CEO of OceanQuest, and how has your background in ocean science shaped your vision? OceanQuest's vision was truly inspiring to me, and I saw it as a unique opportunity to lead an organisation committed to unveiling the wonders of the deep ocean for the benefit of humanity. With almost 40 years of experience in ocean science, including more than 20 ocean expeditions and several international research projects, I've developed a deep passion for discovery and global collaboration. As CEO, I'm focused on accelerating exploration while championing equitable partnerships that ensure scientific innovation benefits everyone, everywhere. OceanQuest aims to explore the deep ocean and promote global teamwork. How will you balance science with regional needs, especially in the Gulf? OceanQuest's mission is based on the idea that deep-ocean science should be globally collaborative but locally relevant. As a Saudi not-for-profit foundation, we're in a unique position to explore deep ocean regions from the Red Sea to the Indian Ocean and Tropical and South Atlantic, while simultaneously developing local scientific leadership in Saudi Arabia and the broader MENA region. We prioritise elevating regional voices through hands-on roles in international missions like the recent Africa expedition, targeted capacity-building efforts, and regional partnerships. For example, earlier this year, three Saudi early-career ocean professionals joined international teams aboard the OceanXplorer. This shows how we enable local talent to contribute meaningfully to global deep-ocean dialogue — not just close to home but across international waters. Your work with OceanX featured advanced tech like robotics, AI, and digital twins. How are these tools changing deep sea research? The deep ocean is one of the most challenging environments to study — vast, dark, high-pressure, and remote. That's why breakthroughs in robotics, AI, and smart sensors are transforming what's possible. At OceanQuest, we've taken a technology-first approach focused on seamounts — undersea mountains that make up just 5 per cent of the deep ocean yet are essential to biodiversity, carbon cycling, and marine mixing. These ecosystems also have untapped biomedical potential, yet most remain uncharted and unprotected. We use robotic fleets with advanced sensors to scan seamounts, collect high-res environmental data, and capture real-time imagery. That data feeds into digital twins — AI-powered, dynamic models that simulate how ecosystems function and respond to environmental pressures. These tools reduce the need for constant human presence, make research more scalable, and help scientists and policymakers test conservation strategies virtually. They're not just helping us explore more, but also helping build the global baseline data needed to protect these hidden frontiers. Can you share a recent example from an expedition that shows how new technology is changing how we explore the ocean? Yes, in our recent missions, we've used high-fidelity camera systems and robotic specimen sampling tools that work in tandem with AI to improve species detection. We've also leveraged Environmental DNA (eDNA) as a rapid biodiversity monitoring tool, which provides faster insights than traditional methods. However, eDNA still requires validation with real-world sampling, which is why we emphasize integrated, multidisciplinary research. The combination of advanced imaging, robotics, AI, and eDNA gives us a much clearer and quicker understanding of deep-sea ecosystems than ever before. Why was Saudi Arabia the right place to launch OceanQuest, and how does it support the kingdom's sustainability goals? Saudi Arabia is strategically located along key marine ecosystems, particularly the Red Sea, which makes it an ideal hub for deep ocean research. OceanQuest supports the kingdom's Vision 2030 priorities by focusing on technology, AI, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. Our foundation is set to contribute to the national research and innovation targets with SAR3bn in R&D funding by 2050, supporting over 150 scientists each year. We also aim to inspire the next generation of ocean scientists and STEM professionals in the region through education and outreach, further supporting the kingdom's goal of nurturing a knowledge-based society. By advancing global deep-ocean science from Saudi Arabia, we're not only contributing to the country's growth but positioning it as a leader in marine innovation and sustainability. After the UN Ocean Conference, what are OceanQuest's top goals for the next year or so? After our debut at the 2025 UN Ocean Conference, our top priority is protecting vulnerable deep-sea ecosystems, especially seamounts. These ecosystems are critical to ocean health but remain largely unexplored and at risk. We aim to generate robust baseline data to inform international conservation strategies and sustainable ocean governance. We're also scaling our support for Early-Career Ocean Professionals (ECOPs) through expedition participation, mentorship programs, and global training. This aligns with the UN Decade of Ocean Science, which recognises ECOPs as central to long-term impact. One example already in motion is our Around Africa Expedition, where 69 scientists from 31 countries — over 40 of the ECOPs — collaborated on research and training. We're building on that model to expand our inclusive, collaborative approach globally. What are some of the key challenges when it comes to deep sea research? First, public awareness of the deep ocean's role in planetary health is still low. Many don't realise how vital it is for biodiversity, climate regulation, and sustainability. Second, ocean management is often fragmented — many regions lack a unified ocean policy, leading to overexploitation and underprotection. The solution lies in open collaboration and equitable data-sharing. It's essential that knowledge, technology, and opportunity are accessible to scientists in every part of the world, especially in the Global South. What are the key concerns facing our oceans today, and how can both private and government enterprises in the region contribute to their protection? The ocean is a global system that connects us all, yet it's often viewed through fragmented, local lenses. One of the main concerns is the absence of holistic ocean policy. Another is the lack of visibility for the deep ocean's role in biodiversity and climate systems. Private and government players can step up by funding inclusive ocean research, investing in sustainable technologies, and building coalitions across sectors. Together, they can help shape a shared vision for ocean stewardship that balances exploration with preservation.
Arab News
13-06-2025
- Science
- Arab News
How Saudi Arabia's OceanQuest is making waves in global marine conservation
RIYADH: As the curtains closed on this year's UN Ocean Conference in the French city of Nice, the Saudi-led foundation OceanQuest emerged as one of the standout contributors to marine sustainability — not only in policy circles but also in the depths of the world's oceans. Fresh from its pioneering Around Africa Expedition, OceanQuest, in partnership with OceanX, brought remarkable scientific discoveries and a powerful message to UNOC — that true marine conservation must combine exploration, collaboration, and education. 'This expedition went around Africa and engaged on-ship around 16 African scientists and more than 200 port stops,' Martin Visbeck, CEO of OceanQuest, told Arab News. From surveying megafauna by helicopter to exploring seamounts more than 1,000 meters beneath the surface aboard the OceanXplorer, the team used cutting-edge technology and human ingenuity to illuminate previously uncharted ecosystems. OceanQuest is a Saudi non-profit incubated at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology. It is rapidly becoming a key player in the global marine science arena, dedicated to deep-sea exploration, design innovation, and cross-border collaboration. • OceanQuest is a Saudi non-profit focused on deep-sea exploration and global collaborations in marine science. • The foundation emphasizes human-centered approaches to conservation by training African scientists and educators. • Discoveries on its Around Africa Expedition include new seamounts vital for biodiversity and sustainable fisheries. One of its flagship missions — the Around Africa Expedition — offered not only new data but a model of inclusive, equitable marine science. Using robotic vehicles, manned submersibles, and remote sensing tools, the team made multiple dives during the mission. In total, they spent 53 hours underwater, collected nearly 90 samples, and mapped thousands of square kilometers of the seabed, including around the Nola Seamounts and Santo Antao Island. Flights over 922 nautical miles provided additional data on large marine animals. Among the major outcomes was the identification of new underwater seamounts, crucial for fisheries and marine biodiversity. 'We will be the ones who go to seamount systems and explore what is there, look at the species, look at the functions and understanding, then share that with the community, to provide reasons why certain seamounts should be protected,' said Visbeck. This insight is critical as countries consider the ratification and implementation of the High Seas Treaty — formally the Marine Biodiversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction agreement — a major focus at UNOC. 'Biodiversity protection beyond national jurisdiction means the protected areas in the high seas, outside of a country's own legal role,' said Visbeck. OceanQuest's approach is not just technical — it is human-centered. Working alongside top African entities such as the National Research Foundation, the University of Cape Town, and the South African National Biodiversity Institute, the expedition helped build capacity for African marine science. Twenty-four early-career professionals from across the continent were trained in seafloor mapping, environmental DNA analysis, and deep-sea sampling. 'This wasn't just about what we discovered in the ocean. It was also about who we empowered on the ground,' said Visbeck. 'By investing in people — students, young professionals and educators — we're building a foundation for Africa's long-term leadership in ocean science.' This section contains relevant reference points, placed in (Opinion field) He sees this collaborative model as a roadmap for future conservation. 'These collaborations are the future of ocean science in Africa,' he said. 'We've seen what's possible when scientists, governments and regional institutions align behind a common purpose, advancing knowledge, access and opportunity.' This year's UNOC provided the perfect platform for OceanQuest to share these achievements and ambitions. 'I decided that it would be amazing to celebrate and launch OceanQuest and share with the ocean world our arrival on the scene at UNOC,' said Visbeck. 'We are using UNOC to celebrate with our partners, friends and ocean-policy people on the scene and share with them our mission and vision.' In a time of mounting ocean crises — from plastic pollution to overfishing and climate change — Visbeck says awareness is a powerful tool. 'What we are trying to do is fight ignorance by providing data and information. Once the information is more clear, it can be a basis for regulatory agencies.' From the Red Sea to the high seas, OceanQuest is helping reframe the future of ocean conservation — not just by mapping the seafloor, but by drawing a new map for global cooperation.
Arab News
26-04-2025
- Science
- Arab News
OceanQuest appoints Dr. Martin Visbeck as CEO to lead next era of ocean exploration
OceanQuest, a Saudi nonprofit foundation, has announced the appointment of Dr. Martin Visbeck as chief executive. A globally recognized leader in ocean science, Visbeck brings more than 30 years of expertise in advancing the understanding of the ocean's critical role within the Earth system. Visbeck's contributions span ocean discovery, research, governance, and technological innovation. His expertise is widely sought by scientific organizations, national governments, and the UN, underscoring his profound influence on global ocean policy. 'OceanQuest's mission is to illuminate the ocean like never before — driving discovery, advancing scientific understanding, and supporting human progress,' Visbeck said. 'By investing in next-generation research vessels, robotics, and advanced sensing technologies, we are strengthening the global deep ocean exploration ecosystem. 'Our success depends on international collaboration, uniting nations to explore, understand, safeguard and sustainably utilize the ocean's vast potential. The launch of OceanQuest marks a significant milestone in this shared journey, as we push the boundaries of exploration and make a lasting impact on the future of our planet.' Visbeck's pioneering work in ocean science, observation and robotics has transformed data collection, discoveries and understanding in remote and challenging regions. His advocacy for digital twin technologies has enabled the development of virtual replicas of ocean systems, allowing simulation and prediction of ocean changes — critical for understanding the ocean's role in sustainable development. OceanQuest is dedicated to advancing ocean science and accelerating deep ocean exploration. The foundation's goals are aligned with those of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 — fostering sustainable development, innovation and global collaboration, and positioning Saudi Arabia as a leader in ocean research and conservation. OceanQuest is set to launch a series of joint expeditions in the coming years, with a focus on studying seamounts — vital underwater ecosystems that play a critical role in the ocean's health. These missions will shed light on the biology, chemistry, physics, and geology of these ecosystems, expanding our understanding of their importance to humanity.
Zawya
23-04-2025
- Science
- Zawya
OceanQuest appoints Dr. Martin Visbeck as CEO to lead next era of deep ocean exploration
Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: The OceanQuest Board of Trustees proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Martin Visbeck as Chief Executive Officer. A globally recognized leader in ocean science, Dr. Visbeck brings over 30 years of pioneering expertise in advancing the understanding of the ocean's critical role within the Earth system. Dr. Visbeck's contributions span ocean discovery, research, governance, and technological innovation. His expertise is widely sought by scientific organizations, national governments, and the United Nations, underscoring his profound influence on global ocean policy. Notably, he serves on the governing board of the International Science Council (ISC) and the leadership council of the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN). He is a key contributor to several international ocean science programs and the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030). Dr. Visbeck's pioneering work in ocean science, observation and robotics has transformed data collection, discoveries and understanding in remote and challenging regions. His advocacy for digital twin technologies has enabled the development of virtual replicas of ocean systems, allowing simulation and prediction of ocean changes—critical for understanding the ocean's role in sustainable development. These groundbreaking achievements have cemented Dr. Visbeck's reputation as a global leader in advancing sustainable ocean solutions. Beyond his technical expertise, Dr. Visbeck is deeply committed to building global capacity in ocean science. He has mentored the next generation of scientists and championed inclusive training and educational opportunities worldwide. OceanQuest is a Saudi Arabian not-for-profit foundation dedicated to advancing ocean science and accelerating deep ocean exploration. The foundations goals are aligned with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 of fostering sustainable development, innovation and global collaboration, and positioning Saudi Arabia as a leader in ocean research and conservation. OceanQuest is set to launch a series of joint expeditions in the coming years, with a focus on studying seamounts—vital underwater ecosystems that play a critical role in the ocean's health. These missions will shed light on the biology, chemistry, physics, and geology of these ecosystems, expanding our understanding of their importance to humanity. The foundation will design and operate a fleet of cutting-edge research vessels equipped with advanced deep-sea robotics, enabling the exploration of challenging ocean depths. OceanQuest also plans to create digital twins of ocean seamounts—real-time virtual models that provide invaluable data for conservation and sustainable use, scenario planning, and decision-making. OceanQuest is committed to fostering international cooperation, inviting scientists from across the globe to participate in its initiatives to discover and understand the deep ocean. Data generated from its expeditions will be openly shared with nations and stakeholders, empowering informed decision-making and sustainable ocean stewardship. With discovery at the heart of its mission, OceanQuest seeks to inspire the next generation of ocean scientists, enhance global ocean literacy, and ignite public curiosity about the wonders of the deep ocean. Dr. Martin Visbeck, CEO of OceanQuest, said: 'OceanQuest's mission is to illuminate the ocean like never before—driving discovery, advancing scientific understanding, and supporting human progress. By investing in next generation research vessels, robotics, and advanced sensing technologies, we are strengthening the global deep ocean exploration ecosystem. Our success depends on international collaboration, uniting nations to explore, understand, safeguard and sustainably utilize the ocean's vast potential. The launch of OceanQuest marks a significant milestone in this shared journey, as we push the boundaries of exploration and make a lasting impact on the future of our planet.' In his new role, Dr. Visbeck will prioritize key initiatives that will drive OceanQuest's mission forward: Accelerate discovery of the deep ocean through deployment of capacity and research support to increase human knowledge of the ocean and seas Pioneer innovation in ocean exploration through design of new-age technology and exploration tools to accelerate the global discovery mission and contribute to blue innovation economy Create synergies in ocean discovery through influencing the setting of common goals, sharing of knowledge and enablement of KSA & nations to participate in ocean exploration Elevate public interest in the ocean and seas through multi-channel engagement to inspire new generations in driving positive change Under Dr. Visbeck's leadership, OceanQuest will advance the frontiers of ocean discovery and science, harnessing emerging technologies and fostering global partnerships to drive lasting benefits for both the environment and society. About OceanQuest: OceanQuest is a Saudi Arabian not-for-profit foundation, committed to unveiling the wonders of the ocean and exploring its secrets for the benefit of humanity. Its mission is to accelerate ocean discovery, drive innovation in the field, support global cooperation, and excite the public. OceanQuest and its global partners will launch a new era of deep ocean exploration and knowledge sharing. OceanQuest is based in the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) campus in Thuwal, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. To learn more visit
Yahoo
23-04-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
OceanQuest - An Ambitious Foundation Dedicated to Deep Ocean Exploration Launched In Saudi Arabia With a Mission to Accelerate Ocean Discovery, Drive Innovation in the Field, Support Global Cooperation, and Engage the Public
JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia, April 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- OceanQuest, a not-for-profit foundation dedicated to deep ocean exploration, has officially launched in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. With a mission to accelerate ocean discovery, drive innovation, and foster international cooperation while engaging the public, OceanQuest is set to significantly accelerate deep ocean research and knowledge sharing. The foundation supports Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 by spearheading innovation in ocean exploration and advancing sustainable development. OceanQuest is set to contribute to the Kingdom's National Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) targets by providing SAR 3 billion in research and development funding by 2050 and eventually supporting more than 150 scientists annually, while also aiding Saudi Arabia's efforts to protect 30% of marine habitats. OceanQuest will lead a series of joint expeditions to study seamounts—vital underwater ecosystems essential to ocean health. These missions will provide new insights into the biology, chemistry, physics, and geology of the deep ocean, enhancing global knowledge and informing conservation efforts. The foundation will also aim to operate a small fleet of state-of-the-art research vessels equipped with advanced deep-sea robotics, allowing for the exploration of previously unreachable depths. A key component of OceanQuest's innovation agenda will include the creation of digital twins of ocean seamounts—real-time virtual models that provide valuable insights for informed decision-making, conservation, and sustainable use. To lead this ambitious initiative, OceanQuest has appointed Dr. Martin Visbeck as Chief Executive Officer. A globally recognized expert in ocean science, Dr. Visbeck brings over three decades of experience in advancing ocean research, policy, and technological innovation. Under his leadership, OceanQuest will drive forward initiatives that accelerate deep-sea exploration, pioneer new technologies, and elevate global engagement with the ocean. About OceanQuest: OceanQuest is a Saudi Arabian not-for-profit foundation, committed to unveiling the wonders of the ocean and exploring its secrets for the benefit of humanity. Its mission is to accelerate ocean discovery, drive innovation in the field, support global cooperation, and excite the public. OceanQuest and its global partners will launch a new era of deep ocean exploration and knowledge sharing. OceanQuest is based in the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) campus in Thuwal, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. To learn more visit Video: View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE OceanQuest
