The organizers of the OceanObs’29 Conference invite us to apply to its Program Committee, an exclusive leadership role that will directly shape the vision, themes, and outcomes of this landmark event. They seek a broad range of ocean knowledge-holders, including classical ocean observation experts and Early Career Professionals (ECPs), indigenous representatives, and thought leaders - spanning science, engineering, policy, and industry to guide this effort.

The OceanObs’29 Program Committee applications are open until 31 May 2025. It's important that marine biogeochemistry is adequately represented on the Program Committee and we hope that some of you will consider taking this opportunity to shape the next decade of ocean science and observations.

The OceanObs conference series has, for many decades, shaped the trajectory of global ocean observing: defining priorities, driving innovation, and strengthening international collaboration. OceanObs’29, the premier decadal conference for the ocean observing enterprise, is now in motion.

Why Get Involved?

OceanObs’29 will define the future of ocean observing for the next decade. This is your opportunity to shape the priorities that will influence research agendas, technology development, funding strategies, and international policy. From 300 attendees at its start, to 600, and now 1,500 at the last three conferences, OceanObs has grown into a global force—and Program Committee members will collaborate with top scientists, engineers, industry leaders, and policymakers to build a transformative program that advances ocean and coastal monitoring worldwide. Participation offers unparalleled networking opportunities, leadership experience, and visibility in the ever-expanding global ocean community.


OceanObs’29 Focus Areas

Ocean observing is rapidly evolving, driven by advances in technology, growing societal needs, and the increasing demand for sustained, integrated global observations. The Program Committee will play a pivotal role in shaping OceanObs’29 to address emerging challenges and opportunities in the field.

Key themes may include improving observing infrastructure, data interoperability, and integration of in situ and remote sensing technologies, as well as advancing prediction capabilities, automation, and artificial intelligence. Discussions will also explore how observations support resource management, economic opportunities, and decision-making across sectors. The Program Committee will have the opportunity to define these and other critical priorities that will shape the next decade of ocean observing.

Your Role in OceanObs’29

As a Program Committee member, you will play a critical role in selecting plenary presenters, reviewing abstracts, and synthesizing community input to ensure a well-structured and impactful conference. Members will also shape key conference messages, refining session topics, and guiding the selection of plenary paper authors to reflect the most pressing priorities in ocean observing.

The time commitment includes an in-person kickoff meeting in 2025, followed by bi-monthly virtual meetings (1-2 hours each), increasing to monthly meetings as the conference approaches and peaking at 4-6 hours per month in the final stages. Members are expected to provide thoughtful engagement in discussions, review materials between meetings, and collaborate with fellow committee members to develop a high-impact conference program.


How to Apply

Submit your application via the application form by 31 May 2025.

Selected candidates will be notified by July 2025.

The application form is accessible here: https://www.oceanobs29.net/

If you are not ready to commit, stay involved by completing the expression of interest form to receive updates.