Presentation and background
“I am 22 years old and I have just finished the first year of my Master’s degree in Ocean Sciences at Sorbonne University. Before that, I completed a multidisciplinary undergraduate degree in Environmental science at PSL University, allowing me to combine natural sciences and humanities as part of my studies. It also gave me the opportunity to coordinate scientific outreach workshops. I have also co-founded several associations and competed in triathlons for over ten years, which helps me to develop my rigour and endurance.”

Motivations for the Bougainville mission 
“I had heard about the Bougainville mission before I started my Master’s degree, and it has remained a dream ever since. The possibility of combining science, adventure and science outreach convinced me to try my luck at the end of the first year of my Master’s programme. It is a unique opportunity for me to contribute to the study of planktonic ecosystems whilst learning about the demanding world of the French navy.”

Expectations for the mission
“I am excited to meet the team, discover life at sea and explore new horizons. I want to work in a constantly changing, challenging environment, develop my seafaring skills and take part in an ambitious scientific project. This experience is an exciting opportunity to discover new cultural and human perspectives.”

Prospects
“I hope that this adventure will help me to consolidate my professional aspirations, through applied research in the field and by strengthening my skills in science outreach. Aside from scientific skills, I expect this mission to be a key life experience which will stay with me both personally and professionally.”

Presentation and background
“I am 23 years old and I come from Rouen. After my baccalaureate (end of secondary school qualification in France), I joined the Institut des sciences et techniques de la mer de Cherbourg. The programme there gave me a solid foundation in ocean science and encouraged me to consider pursuing research professions. With my degree, I worked as a plankton image analyst at the Institut de la mer de Villefranche-sur-Mer, before starting the Master’s programme in Ocean Science at Sorbonne University. I also took part in personal and associative projects, including the Icona mission, which studies river plastic pollution…in a kayak! It was a key experience for me which showed that it is possible to do science differently.”

Motivations for the Bougainville mission
“The mission corresponds perfectly to my main area of interest: plankton, the basis of all ocean life and a major issue in the context of climate change. It is also an opportunity to directly observe ecosystems that I have not yet explored. The scientific outreach aspect particularly interests me, as I believe that it is essential to make science accessible to the greatest number. And finally, joining the French navy is an opportunity to discover this unique universe.”

Expectations for the mission
“I expect to be stimulated both scientifically and personally. The demanding nature of life on board, discovering new environments and the wealth of interactions with the crew will be new challenges. I hope to become more independent, consolidate my research skills and develop my ability to share and convey.”

Prospects
“I am aiming towards a career as a lecturer, with a special interest for zooplankton, particularly in Artic environments. But I remain open to other horizons. I see this mission as a key step, which will help me to make choices and nourish my professional journey.”

Presentation and background
“I am 23 years old and I have a Master’s degree in Ocean Science. My interest for the marine world was born during my undergraduate degree in Biology at Sorbonne University, specialised in ecology and evolution. It was then that I discovered the Bougainville mission, and I was struck by its objectives and student focus. I later chose to specialise in plankton ecology, which is an area that I would like to continue exploring. Throughout my studies, I have taken part in several sea expeditions and developed my understanding of the ocean microbiome, acquiring a solid practical and theoretical foundation.”

Motivations for the Bougainville mission
“I was attracted to the mission’s scope, resources and innovative approach which makes use of simple tools and gives students a central place. I see an opportunity to push my research further, explore other world regions and consolidate my field skills. I am also strongly motivated by scientific outreach, with the desire to raise awareness among the public about the importance of plankton in marine ecosystems. Joining the crew as a volunteer cadet officer will also allow me to find out more about the military world and take on responsibilities.” 

Expectations for the mission
“I expect to experience a total immersion: a year filled with new experiences, challenges and lessons, scientifically, professionally and socially. I think that it will be challenging but also unforgettable.”

Prospects
“I believe that my previous experience has prepared me for this mission, both my laboratory experience and my trips to sea. In the long-term, I would like to continue my career studying plankton ecosystems and combining research and outreach.”

Presentation and background
“I am 24 years old and I have an Erasmus Mundus Master’s degree in Marine Science, during which I studied in several European universities, including Sorbonne University, with a focus on conservation and marine ecology. My background has allowed me to vary my experiences: an internship analysing data on ocean deoxygenation and acidification, followed by a field internship in a fishing village looking at the status of commercial fish populations. I also coordinate the advocacy activities of a young climate and biodiversity association, in partnership with international negotiations.”

Motivations for the Bougainville mission
“Joining the Bougainville mission is a unique opportunity for me to learn about life on board, get training in navigation and discover navy life. It is also the chance for me to broaden my understanding of plankton with innovative and accessible methods. I am convinced of the importance of scientific outreach, and this project will allow me to share research with the general public and decision-makers alike.”

Expectations for the mission
“I expect this experience to force me out of my comfort zone, in particular faced with the challenge of feeling isolated and living in a confined space, but that it will also help me to create strong relationships. I cannot wait to play an active role in the scientific work and share meaningful interactions about the sea and its challenges, with people from a wide range of backgrounds.”

Prospects
“I would like make this mission the next step in my career path, combining scientific research, conservation and advocacy. It will help me to specify my professional aspirations which will most likely be focused on ecosystem management and the protection of deep marine environments. Keeping a diary during the expedition will be a way to keep a record of the experience and inspire my approach of sharing and transmitting knowledge.” 

Presentation and background
“I am 23 years old and I have a Master’s degree in Integrative Biology and Physiology, with a focus on Marine Biology and Bioresources from Sorbonne University. My interest in extreme environments, sea ice and oceans helped to guide my study choices. Following a double degree in Life Sciences and Computing, I have had several trips in marine stations and chosen internships combining biology and climate, particularly in Sweden where I worked on the effects of climate change on sea urchin larvae. As a fan of sailing, I have nurtured a strong relationship with the sea and a desire to protect it for a long time.”

Motivations for the Bougainville mission
“The Bougainville mission is an exceptional scientific and human adventure. It combines research, societal commitment and an openness to the military world. Contributing to the study of plankton, a core part of marine ecosystems, whilst encouraging the meeting of scientists, members of the military, decision-makers and citizens, is both an opportunity and an honour.”

Expectations for the mission
“I would like to learn how to live at sea and work in a demanding collective environment. I am particularly motivated by the possibility to take part in a project that brings together science, society and outreach. Field experience, crew solidarity and being confronted to new maritime realities fill me with great enthusiasm.” 

Prospects
“Through this mission, I hope to consolidate my professional project about applied marine research and the protection of vulnerable environments. It will be an opportunity for me to develop my scientific skills, but also to secure my commitment to ocean preservation as part of an academic and citizen approach.”