Meeting Notes - National Oceanography Centre

needs of long term science must be tensioned against the rest of the science spend rather than this big
infrastructure provision.
In the NERC Funding Model, the % funding for Responsive Mode and training stays much the same, but
funding for Research Programmes is increasing. For this there is a need to speed up the commissioning
process. NERC is looking at how a ‘gatekeeper mechanism’ might work where panels support
particular areas of research in order to broaden expertise. Knowledge Exchange is increasingly likely
to focus on specific partnerships. Several of the newer strategic programmes have levered in funding
from other Government Departments, this is a trend which is likely to continue.
Infrastructure
Ships
RRS Discovery is at an advanced stage of fit out, due for delivery later this year and should be available
for science in 2014.
Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV)
ROV Isis was rebuilt by NMF Sea Systems in 2012 using opportunistic capital facilities. NMF Sea
Systems is also working in parallel with ROV operators across Europe.
Robotics and autonomous systems
As part of the Ministerial focus on ‘8 great technologies’ NERC expects to secure capital funding of
£10m over the next two years for research and technology development of marine robotics and
autonomous systems. Work is underway to identify priorities for using the developing AUV
technology advances to deliver science and how NOC can work with industry to enhance capability.
Marine Science Coordination Committee (MSCC)
Ed Hill presented a slide of MSCC activities. He noted that that the activities of the MSCC have
recently been one theme of the current Parliamentary Inquiry into Marine Science.
Discussion
Kevin Horsburgh (NOC) asked when the Select Committee’s findings would be made public. Ed
explained that report is being prepared at the moment. Based on the evidence provided and
questioning of witnesses he speculated that it could make reference to the cost and operation of
infrastructure, the MSCC role and its delivery and operation across the UK. The Committee had taken
evidence from NERC and industry on the potential for autonomous systems in the future. Other areas
could include the evidence base for marine policy and quality of data for marine seabed and habitat
maps. The question had been raised by the Committee regarding whether the UK should have the
equivalent of NOAA and if not, whether existing coordination mechanisms need strengthening.
Adrian New (NOC) expressed concern about cut backs to NC science in the long term. To enhance
our knowledge of how the ocean system works within the Earth system requires research over a long
time frame. Ed replied that the issues are currently being addressed by NERC Council.
Mark Inall (SAMS) asked how much thought has been given to the REF exercise in the development of
NERC strategy. Ed answered that REF is not an explicit driver in the way that research councils agree
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