Open Sea Lab FAQs | EMODnet OPEN SEA LAB

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What is Open Sea Lab?

Open Sea Lab is like a hackathon but much, much more. It is a 3-day deep-dive to explore how open marine data can be used to create innovative solutions for societal challenges.
Participants from diverse backgrounds (coders, communicators, biologists, data scientists..) will be coached by experts from EMODnet, ICES and Copernicus Marine to explore and use Europe’s wealth of marine data.
Teams are created on site (or participants are welcome to apply as a team) to work towards developing novel tools or applications in one of three challenge areas:
- Marine Environmental Management and Protection
- Sustainable Blue Economy
- Ocean Literacy/Blue Society - Public Outreach, Education and Engagement with the Marine Environment.

Who should attend?

Everyone is welcome, no previous experience is necessary.
You can apply as a team or if you apply as an individual, you will be matched with people with complementary skills to form a complete team. Some reasons you might wish to apply:
- Are you working on an idea or an application for your work that could be advanced with expert input or new skills?
- Are you interested in how marine data can be used to address societal problems?
- Do you want to learn more about the types of marine data that are collected in Europe, and how they can be used?
- Do you want to learn new skills and meet new people in the world of marine open data and innovation?

What’s on Offer at Open Sea Lab?

Expert training by innovation specialists imec and from leaders in marine data management from EMODnet, ICES, Copernicus Marine, Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ). Also Global Fishing Watch and OVH will give some inspiring talks and coaching.
Skills workshops in areas such as: business modelling, user experience, data visualization, story mapping and more.
Talks by inspirational speakers.
An opportunity to network, bring your ideas to fruition, develop your skills or learn new ones –all in a fun and stimulating environment!
Great prizes!

Who will be there?

The first Open Sea Lab (2017) included participants from throughout Europe, and as far away as Canada. They included software developers, data scientists, maritime companies, marine environmental managers, public regulatory bodies, biologists, communicators and students from a range of backgrounds.
Meet the innovation specialists of imec, marine data experts of EMODnet, ICES and Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ), ESA's Copernicus Marine satellite data experts or meet people from Global Fishing Watch and OVH.

What does it cost to attend?

It is free to attend OSLII, as are all the workshops and talks. Refreshments are also provided during the event. Participants will, however, have to cover their own travel and accommodation costs.
The EMODnet Secretariat is offering 20 free rooms for students on a first come first served basis. If you apply for OSLII and indicate that you're interested in a student room, we will send you more details on how to apply for a student room.

Who are the organisers?

This event is organised by the EMODnet Secretariat, in collaboration with Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ), Copernicus Marine and ICES, and with the contribution of imec and Marine@Ugent. Supported by the European Commission and VLIZ.

Is there a detailed programme available?

The draft programme is available here. Note that this is a draft of the programme and will be finalized in the coming weeks.

How can I apply? Is there a selection procedure?

You can apply on this link (or click the button below). Valid applications will be accepted on a first come first served basis. Applicants will receive notification within one week of receipt of their application.
The application period will close on the 12th of August 2019, although late applications will be considered if spaces remain available.

What can I do to prepare myself for the hackathon?

Sit back and relax! No need to do anything in advance, we will give you all the information that you need during the hackathon.
If you are really curious, you can always check the data and tutorials, or have a look at the programme to decide which workshops you might be interested in.
To whom do you want to talk during the hackathon? meet the speakers, coaches and jury or your future teammates

Got any other questions? Contact us at