Ocean Sciences Meeting 2026
OBON will host two sessions at the 2026 Ocean Sciences Meeting, which will be held in Glasgow, UK, from 22-27 February 2026.
Both sessions are part of the Ocean Technology and Observatories topic.
OT41B – The Ocean Biomolecular Observing Network: Advancing Biomolecular Science for Sustainable Development I Oral
Date: Thursday, 26 February 2026
Time: 08:30 – 10:00
Location: Carron (SEC)
This session invites contributions that highlight advances in biomolecular methodologies and technologies, progress towards obtaining quantitative data from eDNA (or other biomolecules), and/or in the development of reference libraries.
Primary Chair:
Margaret Leinen (Scripps Institute of Oceanography, UCSD)
Co-Chairs:
Hassan Moustahfid (NOAA/NOS/US Integrated Ocean Observing System)
Julie Robidart (National Oceanography Centre Southampton)
Kathleen Pitz (Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute)
Nicolas Pade (EMBRC-ERIC)
Moderators:
Margaret Leinen (Scripps Institute of Oceanography, UCSD)
Hassan Moustahfid (NOAA/NOS/US Integrated Ocean Observing System)
More details at: https://agu.confex.com/agu/osm26/prelim.cgi/Session/274701
OT44F – The Ocean Biomolecular Observing Network (OBON): Advancing Biomolecular Science for Sustainable Development III Poster
Date: Thursday, 26 February 2026
Time: 16:00 – 18:00
Location: Hall 4 (Poster Hall) (SEC)
Primary Chair:
Margaret Leinen (Scripps Institute of Oceanography, UCSD)
Co-Chairs:
Hassan Moustahfid (NOAA/NOS/US Integrated Ocean Observing System)
Julie Robidart (National Oceanography Centre Southampton)
Kathleen Pitz (Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute)
Nicolas Pade (EMBRC-ERIC)
Moderators:
Margaret Leinen (Scripps Institute of Oceanography, UCSD)
Eric Raes (Minderoo Foundation, Minderoo OceanOmics Centre at UWA)
This session invites contributions on biomolecular observations, technologies, and innovations with the potential to transform ocean science and support sustainable development.
More details at: https://agu.confex.com/agu/osm26/prelim.cgi/Session/274011
The Ocean Biomolecular Observing Network (OBON) is a global initiative revolutionizing ocean monitoring through biomolecular science, including environmental DNA (eDNA).
Endorsed by the UN Ocean Decade, OBON leverages cutting-edge science to enable real-time, large-scale observation of marine life and ecosystems. OBON has established a global biomolecular network that collects and analyzes eDNA and other biomarkers from coastal to open waters, with the aim to address critical issues such as pollution, biodiversity loss, and climate change. OBON is also building global capacity to improve biomolecular observation and analysis, while promoting equitable access to ocean knowledge and resources.
Through Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable (FAIR) data principles, integrated models, and collaborative approaches, OBON enhances the usability and interpretation of biomolecular data and contributes to the creation of actionable ocean knowledge. This work supports informed decision-making by empowering researchers, policymakers, and communities to better manage and conserve marine ecosystems.
With its scalable framework and inclusive approach, OBON serves as a critical tool for sustainable ocean stewardship and for advancing a holistic vision of ocean health in the decades ahead.
