The 2025 MARiS Early Career Researcher (ECR) Conference, held on 12 September 2025 at the University of Cape Town (UCT), brought together early career researchers from UCT, Wits University, Stellenbosch University, and beyond for a day of presentations, discussions, and networking under the theme “Celebrating interdisciplinary science and engineering for ocean solutions.” The event featured engaging talks, a dynamic panel discussion on interdisciplinarity, and vibrant participation from students and researchers across marine and polar sciences.
MARiS (Marine and Antarctic Research for Innovation and Sustainability) is recognised as the interdisciplinary centre for marine and Antarctic scientific research, involving multiple departments within UCT: Biological Sciences, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering and Oceanography.
A highlight of the programme was a keynote address by Dr. Riesna R. Audh, Polar Oceanographer and Research Coordinator of the South African Polar Research Infrastructure (SAPRI). Riesna shared her journey from completing her PhD at UCT with the MARiS team, to advancing Antarctic sea ice research and now coordinating SAPRI’s Polar Lab.
Dr. Riesna R. Audh delivering a keynote address at the 2025 MARiS ECR Conference
Dr. Audh’s talk resonated with many in the audience, inspiring ECRs with her commitment to collaboration, inclusivity, and growing South Africa’s marine and polar science capacity. By connecting her personal journey to SAPRI’s mission, Riesna showcased the importance of mentorship and infrastructure in empowering the next generation of marine and polar researchers.
Dr. Riesna R. Audh presents SAPRI at the 2025 MARiS ECR Conference
The conference also welcomed international keynote speaker Dr. Leigh McGaughey from the River Institute in Canada, who shared insights from her work on the Great River Rapport project, as well as a lively all-woman panel discussion on inter- and transdisciplinary research featuring Dr Moagabo Ragoasha, Ms Maria Olivier, Ms Robyn Verrinder, and Prof Lynne Shannon, moderated by Dr Louise Gammage.
With attendees and presenters representing multiple institutions, the day highlighted the strength of collaboration and diversity of perspectives in marine and polar sciences. The event concluded with a prize-giving ceremony recognising outstanding oral and poster presentations, as well as a photo competition, further celebrating the creativity and dedication of early career researchers.
L-R: Dr. Leigh McGaughey (River Institute in Canada), Dayna Collins (UCT-MARiS), and Dr. Riesna R. Audh (SAPRI) at the 2025 MARiS ECR Conference.
UCT-MARiS is very grateful for the support of the many sponsors and exhibitors who made the conference a success. Among them, SAPRI played a special role, both as a sponsor of gifts for the delegates goodie bags and through Riesna’s contribution as a guest speaker. Their support exemplifies the value of partnership in building inclusive, interdisciplinary spaces for ECRs to thrive.
Participants of the 2025 MARiS ECR Conference
Text supplied by Leila Nefdt, UCT-MARiS Commucations Officer. Photos by Dayna Collins and Leila Nefdt.
Rabia Mathakutha, South African Polar Research Infrastructure, 7 December 2025
