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, and are accepting abstract submissions:
APPLY BY: 20 August 2025 | 20:59 EDT (03:59 UTC)
OT022 – The Ocean Biomolecular Observing Network:
Part I – Advances in biomolecular science, methodology and technology
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:
Sophie Seeyave (Partnership for Observation of the Global Ocean (POGO))
Co-Chairs:
Julie Robidart (National Oceanography Centre Southampton)
Kathleen Pitz (Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute)
Nicolas Pade (EMBRC-ERIC)
Visit https://agu.confex.com/agu/osm26/prelim.cgi/Session/257689 to submit an abstract.
OT021 – The Ocean Biomolecular Observing Network (OBON):
Part II – Enhancing Ocean Science for a Sustainable Future
This session invites contributions on biomolecular observations, technologies, and innovations with the potential to transform ocean science and support sustainable development.
Primary Chair:
Hassan Moustahfid (NOAA Washington DC)
Co-Chairs:
Margaret Leinen (Scripps Institute of Oceanography, UCSD)
Sophie Seeyave (Partnership for Observation of the Global Ocean (POGO))
Eric Raes (Minderoo Foundation)
Visit https://agu.confex.com/agu/osm26/prelim.cgi/Session/257896 to submit an abstract.
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.
