my international master’s journey: marine habitat restoration with IMBRSea
Hi everyone,
I wanted to share an update about my upcoming adventure as I embark on my Master’s degree specializing in marine habitat restoration through the International Master of Science in Marine Biological Resources (IMBRSea) program. I've been getting a lot of questions about the details and schedule, so here's a rundown for friends and family who are curious about what’s ahead.
Why IMBRSea?
The IMBRSea program is a joint Master’s initiative organized by eleven leading European universities in marine sciences, supported by the European Marine Biological Resource Centre (EMBRC). This program aims to prepare students for the dynamic demands of the blue bio-economy and research on the sustainable use of marine biological resources. There are many umbrellas you can study under in this program, one of them being my chosen specialization of Marine Habitat Restoration.
I chose this Master's program because it offers a unique opportunity to explore many new countries while completing my degree. One of the standout features of this program is its blend of class-based learning, thesis-based research and hands-on work through an international internship and field program. After working for three and a half years in research at the University of Victoria, I wanted to broaden my horizons and experience more than the purely thesis-based approach that many marine biology Master’s programs in Canada offer. While I still love research, I’m excited to get back into learning in a classroom environment too. I thrive on variability, so this program truly aligns with my learning style. Additionally, I will get to network with a multinational group of students and professionals who share my passion for studying and preserving marine ecosystems around the world.
If you're interested in learning more, you can visit the IMBRSea website here.
My Schedule
September 2024 - December 2024: University of the Algarve, Faro, Portugal
I’ll be flying out on September 1st to start my first semester at the University of the Algarve in Faro, Portugal. Classes kick off on September 9th and run until December 20th. During this semester, I’ll be diving into seven marine-based classes alongside an independent field study course supervised by the EcoReach group at CCMAR (Centro de Ciências do Mar - Centre of Marine Sciences).
January 2025: Travel in Europe
After my first semester, I plan to remain in Europe for January and travel around. I haven’t finalized my destinations yet, but I’m excited to explore and experience new places.
February 2025 - April 2025: University of Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
The second semester begins on February 10th at the University of Ghent in Belgium, where I will study experimental ecology. This semester runs from February 10th to April 5th.
April 2025 - June 2025: Professional Practice (Internship)
Following my second semester, I will undertake a professional practice or internship for roughly two months. The location and focus of this internship are still to be determined.
June 2025: Break & return to Canada
I should have some time off in June, and will likely come back to Canada during this break.
July 2025 - August 2025: Tjärnö Research Station, Sweden & more travelling around Europe
Sometime during July or August, I’ll be heading to the Sven Lovén Centre for Marine Sciences on the island of Tjärnö in Sweden for 10 days . Here, I will complete an intensive field research project with other students and researchers.
For the rest of this time, I plan to visit home & travel more in Europe to enjoy the sunny weather.
September 2025 - December 2025: Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
From September to December 2025, I’ll be studying my specialization in marine habitat restoration at the Polytechnic University of Marche in Italy. Exact dates to be determined.
January 2026 - June 2026: Master’s Thesis
After a likely break for the holiday season, I’ll head to wherever I will be completing my Master's thesis from January to the end of June. For my thesis, the only requirement is that I conduct a research project outside of my home country (Canada). If you have any suggestions for people or projects that might interest me, don’t hesitate to send me a message!
July 2026: Thesis Defense
If all goes well, I’ll defend my thesis in July 2026 at one of the 11 partner universities in Europe.
Thank you for your continued support and interest in my studies!
I hope this gives you a clear picture of my journey over the next couple of years. It’s going to be an exciting and busy time, and I’m looking forward to sharing my experiences and updates with you all.
Stay tuned :)