Celebrating Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Innovation at the MARiS ECR Research Showcase 2024
On Wednesday, 4 December 2024, the UCT-MARiS Early Career Researcher (ECR) community came together for a vibrant and inspiring Research Showcase Day — a celebration of the incredible research and innovation taking place across our diverse marine and polar science disciplines.
The event, held in the New Engineering Building (Garnet Room), was expertly organised by the ECR Committee — with outgoing representatives Magata Mangatane and Safiyyah Moos handing over to incoming reps Hayley Swait and Dayna Collins, supported by the MARiS ECR Working Group. Their efforts brought to life a day that reflected the spirit of collaboration, creativity, and community that defines the Marine and Antarctic Research centre for Innovation and Sustainability.
A Day of Insightful Talks and Inspiration
The showcase featured a dynamic line-up of oral presentations and posters, giving early career researchers an opportunity to share their groundbreaking work, exchange ideas, and foster new collaborations. Topics ranged from marine ecosystem dynamics and ocean observation to polar research and socio-economic environmental changes — highlighting the interdisciplinary strength of the MARiS community.
Adding depth and inspiration to the programme were guest speakers Dr Faith February (Postdoctoral Fellow), Dr Rutger Marquart (Postdoctoral Fellow), and Ms Leila Nefdt (MARiS Science Communication Officer), who each shared insights from their professional journeys and inspired the crowd by encouraging the ECRs to follow their passion and share their research. Faith and Leila’s keynote talks shared the importance of science communication and engagement, which resonated deeply with attendees, encouraging early career researchers to connect their science to society.
Leila reminded the audience that “access to the ocean and to information is not always easy,” particularly for inland or disadvantaged communities, and challenged ECRs to share their stories and communicate their work creatively and inclusively.
Leila's key message — “Be the one to share your story; it may ignite another’s passion to follow their dreams” — set the tone for a day built on connection and purpose.
Building a Supportive and Collaborative Community
Beyond presentations, the event included a poster and graphical abstract session showcasing the breadth of MARiS research, as well as an interactive quiz session to wrap up the day on a lively and engaging note. Participants explored new ways to strengthen collaboration, mentorship, and networking within the ECR community.
The event was a resounding success, made possible through the enthusiasm of presenters, the guidance of mentors, and the dedication of the ECR Working Group. The ECR Ogranizing Committee expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved — from speakers and organisers to prize sponsors and attendees — for their contributions to a memorable and impactful day.
Looking Ahead
The MARiS ECR Research Showcase 2024 was more than just an academic event — it was a testament to the creativity, curiosity, and community spirit that drive early career researchers within UCT-MARiS. As the ECR Committee looks toward 2025, they remain committed to strengthening support systems, fostering collaboration across disciplines, and celebrating the diverse research that advances marine and polar science in the Global South.
As one participant reflected, “2024 has been magical.”✨
Congratulations to the MARiS ECR Working Group for curating a successful, inspiring, and well-executed showcase. The future of marine and polar research at UCT-MARiS is brighter than ever — and it’s being shaped by the passion and innovation of our Early Career Researchers.
