Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University of Newfoundland

The Centre for Fisheries Ecosystems Research (CFER), a division of the Marine Institute that focuses on advancing fisheries science, will continue to provide research opportunities for graduate students with support from the Provincial Government. The Honourable Derrick Dalley, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, today announced $50,000 will be provided this year to advance graduate research projects and develop new scientific expertise within the province.

“Newfoundland and Labrador is the only province in Canada that is pursuing independent fisheries science research, making it critical to attract and retain outstanding research professionals who can advance comprehensive studies,” said Minister Dalley. “That is why this government has provided $50,000 to support research activity that not only informs how we manage our fishery resources, but also supports the professional development of scientists who play a vital role in maintaining sustainable fisheries.”

Prior to the creation of CFER in July of 2010, there were four Ph.D. students in the province who were actively engaged in graduate fisheries conservation studies. Since the establishment of the centre, 18 graduate students have been engaged in fisheries research - 11 master students and seven doctoral students.

“Since its inception, CFER has increased the province’s capacity to research topics that include the health of various species, climate change impacts, and fishery sustainability,” said Carey Bonnell, Head of the School of Fisheries at the Marine Institute. “By creating opportunities for graduate students to advance this research, the Provincial Government helps us continuously expand the pool of talented researchers in this province, which in turn benefits the fishing industry.”

The Provincial Government has contributed a total of $150,000 to support student research placements since 2010. In addition to the funding provided for student placements at CFER, the Provincial Government supports student engagement in marine studies by providing funding for the Ocean Education Initiative, Students on Ice scholarships, the Fisheries and Aquaculture Scholarship, and the Dr. Wilfred Templeman Memorial Scholarship for graduate students.