Exploring Ocean Biogeochemical Dynamics
In June, PhD student Samuel Hermant travelled from Belgium to Sweden to take part in the ‘Ocean Biogeochemical Dynamics‘ PhD course. Read on to hear about his experiences…
Why was it important for you to participate in the event?
In March 2024 I started a PhD at the University of Ghent and the Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels, Belgium on the influence of bioturbation on natural sedimentary alkalinity generation in coastal sediments. In the early stages of my academic career, participating in the “Ocean Biogeochemical Dynamics” PhD course from the University of Gothenburg was important to broaden my understanding of ocean biogeochemical processes. Also this was a great opportunity to exchange ideas and make links with leading experts and fellow PhD students, fostering valuable connections within the geochemical community.
What was your overall experience of the event, both professionally and personally?
The beautiful marine research center of Kristineberg, in the granite coasts of the Gullmar fjord, was the setting of this intensive 10-day long course. The ten other PhD students participating and I were first assigned to present our PhD projects in a 30-minute talk. We then followed lectures from globally recognized experts in marine biogeochemistry such as Prof. Caroline Slomp, Radboud University, Netherlands, Prof. Ken Johnson, MBARI, USA, or manager of the course Prof. Emer. Per Hall, University of Gothenburg, Sweden. We followed extensive reviews of the carbon, nitrogen and phosphorous cycles, innovative methods for oceanographic observations, chemistry and design of in- or ex-situ experiments.
During the course, we also had the opportunity to board the R/V Alice and perform benthic sampling with box cores. Ultimately, we all presented a review of a research article we selected earlier in the course. I chose to describe a quite dense review of early diagenetic processes and benthic fluxes in marine sediments by R.C. Aller, 2014. That was pretty challenging but really rewarding as I learned a lot through that exercise, notably by presenting an overview of the Silica cycle in benthic sediments.
What impact did attending this event have on your career?
This experience was an excellent kickstart in the first few months of my PhD, because I enriched my fundamental knowledge from world renowned experts. I also connected with other PhD students and professionals that work on similar topics, opening doors to collaborative opportunities. In parallel, I developed my oral presentation and academic reading skills and discovered a new ecosystem with the Gullmar fjord.
What was your personal experience of the event?
I absolutely enjoyed my stay at Kristineberg Center. I can only admire the serenity of the nature reserve with remarkable ecosystems, and the warmth of the Swedish lifestyle and culture (Fika forever). The history-rich station seemed out of this world, and the exceptionally long days of June in this area only added to the singularity of my experience there. I will also never forget the joy of observing for the first time in my life a bioluminescent dinoflagellate bloom, at the last night of the course (as a reward ?). I couldn’t resist but take a sample, run back to a microscope and observe the luminescent cells. In our free time, we could wander in the rocky shores and neighbouring towns, free-dive in the close seagrass fields, get to close islands with a rowing boat to watch the sunset, or enjoy a cup of coffee with other peers in the station. It’s much easier to connect with new people in that setting.
What did you enjoy the most at the event?
The cheerfulness and supportive attitude of the lecturers and fellow PhD students. The midnight saunas. The beautiful aquarium and library. The view from my dorm’s window and the daily courses.
What advice or tips would you offer to other students who are planning to attend this event?
I would advise to read up literature concerning the different elemental cycles as they can be quite challenging to get through. In the same logic, trying to choose a topic that is far from your own expertise is a great exercise. You gain new knowledge and perspective that eventually feed your own research interest.
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