University of Newcastle Pacific Node Student Embarks On Global Research Journey with One Ocean Expedition Voyage

A PhD candidate from the University of Newcastle's Pacific Node has wrapped up an influential three-week research expedition that took place in July 2022 across the South Pacific.

Mildred Kelokelo, a bright PhD candidate from the prestigious Pacific Node at the University of Newcastle, has just returned from a stunning three-week South Pacific research excursion. Mildred was chosen by the Pacific Community as one of the three Early Career Ocean Professionals (ECOPs) to board the renowned Norwegian research vessel Stratsraad Lehmkuhl among the esteemed cohort.

The ambitious One Ocean Expedition seeks to shed light on the ocean's crucial role in the advancement of sustainable global development. It is in line with the UN's Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development. Mildred boarded the Stratsraad Lehmkuhl at Suva, Fiji, along with 30 students from the University of the South Pacific and met up with 90 classmates from the University of Bergen while the ship was navigating around the Lau Group of Islands, Fiji.

During its globe tour, the Stratsraad Lehmkuhl, a ship outfitted with state-of-the-art scientific equipment, continuously collects data on microplastic levels, ocean acidification, wave dynamics, temperature fluctuations, and auditory recordings of marine life. The ECOPs and students simultaneously plunged into a thorough course on the UN Sustainable Development Goals, with a special concentration on Ocean Research, assisted by foreign researchers.

After the expedition, Mildred presented her enriching experience at the Our One Blue Future conference in Suva, fervently supporting the harmonious fusion of conventional wisdom and cutting-edge scientific methodologies.

The excursion, which Mildred referred to as a "once in a lifetime experience," helped her better comprehend the complex ecosystem of the ocean and the necessary regulations for preserving it. Mildred expressed her sincere thanks for the opportunity. Mildred's participation was made possible by the devoted leadership of Dr. Katy Soapi and the unwavering backing of organizations like the Pacific Community Centre for Ocean Science, University of South Pacific, University of Bergen, and University of Newcastle.

Mildred's journey continues under the leadership of her University of Newcastle advisors, including Dr. Sascha Fuller, Associate Professors Bill Leggat, and Troy Gaston. She has been chosen for the Climate Adaptation Training program in Fiji after her transforming journey. In this role, she will work with local leaders to rehabilitate delicate reef ecosystems and increase their toughness as crucial naturally based solutions to climate concerns.