University of Galway has been recognised for its international reputation for marine and ocean research with the award of the Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence for Ocean Futures, Science and Diplomacy.

The recognition from the European Commission has been announced following the Atlantic Summit Galway 2026, an international gathering of leading ocean strategists, researchers, policymakers, innovators and representatives of Atlantic communities jointly organised by University of Galway, the Marine Institute and Atlantic Technological University.

The Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence seeks to strengthen understanding of the European Union’s role in shaping the future of Atlantic and global ocean and coasts through integrated education, research and policy engagement.

Professor Frances Fahy, Director of the Ryan Institute at University of Galway, said: “We are honoured to have been awarded the Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence for Ocean Futures, Science and Diplomacy. This prestigious European recognition builds on decades of marine, ocean and coastal research excellence at the Ryan Institute in University of Galway and recognises our position as a leading hub for research, education and collaboration in this field.

”The Centre also looks firmly to the future, directly supporting the University’s strategic ambition for ocean research. It also provides an important new platform through which to build on our expertise, strengthening the impact of ocean and coastal research on society, policy and business; creating new opportunities for teaching and intergenerational learning; and deepening collaboration between researchers, policymakers, communities and international partners.

”As a leading research-intensive university, we have a distinctive opportunity, and responsibility, to connect world-class research with policy, diplomacy and society, and to help shape a sustainable and inclusive future for our ocean and coastal communities. The Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence will play a huge role in that.”

Sieglinde Gruber, Chair of the International Advisory Board for the Jean Monnet Centre for Ocean Futures and former Director-General for Research and Innovation of the European Commission, said: “Jean Monnet understood that Europe is built not simply by institutions, but by bringing people together around common challenges. The ocean reminds us that this task has no borders - and intergenerational cooperation reminds us that it has no age. European added value lies precisely there: in connecting countries, knowledge and generations to achieve together what none of us can achieve alone.”

The Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence for Ocean Futures, Science and Diplomacy at University of Galway is led by Professor Louise Allcock in Zoology and Dr Stefan Fritz, Adjunct Professor. It will bring together academics from across the university’s research disciplines, enabling University of Galway to further develop its international profile and leadership in ocean research by creating a unique space within the EU to teach, research and debate the roles of marine and coastal sciences in global ocean and coastal policy processes. It will also support the EU’s capacity to respond coherently to complex global challenges that intersect climate and biodiversity change, human pressures such as migration and maritime security and the pursuit of peaceful international relations.

Professor Louise Allcock, Co-Director of Centre at the University of Galway, said: “The Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence for Ocean Futures, Science and Diplomacy will provide learning opportunities in ocean science, ocean governance and Atlantic policy-making, equipping a new generation of ocean leaders to build a sustainable and socially equitable ocean.”

Dr Stefan Fritz, Co-Director of the Centre and Adjunct Lecturer at the Ryan Institute, University of Galway, said: “With the generous support of the EU and the University of Galway, we are working with local and international partners to make Galway a hub for science that supports peaceful, sustainable and community-led coastal and ocean futures across the Atlantic and beyond.”

The Atlantic Summit was held over two days at University of Galway, as an Associated Event of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union 2026, supported by the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.

It explored how research, data, technology, education and collaboration can progress the ambition of the EU Ocean Pact, adopted in 2025. It sets out a vision to restore ocean health, strengthen maritime security, support coastal communities and unlock sustainable economic opportunities at sea. Delivering on that vision will require a strong, well-resourced and connected marine knowledge system.

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