PIMS Hosts Canada–France–Chile Ocean Research Connections Workshop
In February 2026, the Pacific Institute for the Mathematical Sciences (PIMS) hosted the Canada–France–Chile Ocean Research Connections Workshop, an international event designed to strengthen research partnerships across mathematics, data science, and ocean science.
Held from February 10–14, 2026, the workshop brought together oceanographers, marine ecologists, mathematical scientists, and data researchers from Canada, France, and Chile to develop a shared vision for collaborative ocean research across the eastern Pacific Rim and beyond.
Two-Stage Workshop: Vancouver and Bamfield
The first stage took place at PIMS at the University of British Columbia (UBC) in Vancouver on February 10–11. These two days featured plenary talks, short presentations, and group discussions focused on key research questions, emerging scientific challenges, and opportunities for international collaboration.
The second stage followed at the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre (BMSC) on Vancouver Island from February 12–14. BMSC offers unparalleled access to a wide array of marine environments making it an ideal location for collaborative ocean research.
Strengthening International Partnerships Through Mathematical Sciences
Building on momentum from a successful France–Western Canada ocean and polar science meeting hosted by PIMS in 2024, the 2026 workshop expanded the collaboration to include Chilean partners and deepened the focus on creating an international network of augmented, community-based ocean observatories.
Participants explored how mathematical sciences and data science can help address urgent ocean research priorities and accelerate innovation in experimental design, monitoring systems, and ecological forecasting. Key thematic focal areas included:
- Autonomous ocean observing systems
- Marine ecological dynamics, biodiversity, and restoration
- Interfaces of ocean research with mathematical sciences and data science
Workshop discussions highlighted shared environmental challenges such as ocean deoxygenation and acidification, issues that are particularly acute along the eastern Pacific Rim, as well as emerging marine pressures affecting other regions.
From Ideas to Pilot Projects
The workshop placed a strong emphasis on moving beyond discussion toward actionable outcomes. Participants worked to identify priority research questions, key infrastructure needs, and the most significant mathematical and data science challenges arising in ocean science.
A major objective was to support the development of international research teams and help generate early-stage text and project concepts for future funding proposals, including opportunities through Horizon Europe, ERC Synergy, and the Belmont Forum.
“The Canada–France–Chile Ocean Research Workshop is about turning shared ocean challenges into shared solutions. By bringing together mathematicians, ocean scientists, and data scientists from three countries and ocean regions, we’re strengthening the connections needed for long-term international collaboration. The workshop created space for researchers to share perspectives, identify key challenges, and shape ideas for future collaborative work.”
— Özgür Yilmaz Director, Pacific Institute for the Mathematical Sciences (PIMS)
PIMS Leadership in Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration
The Canada–France–Chile Ocean Research Connections Workshop reflects PIMS’ ongoing role as a leader in fostering cross-disciplinary and international collaboration, demonstrating how mathematics plays a central role in addressing complex global challenges in ocean and environmental science. By connecting researchers across nations and disciplines, PIMS continues to help build the partnerships and research foundations needed for ambitious, high-impact scientific collaboration.
