The 7th edition of the Blue Think Conference (BTC) brought together early-career researchers from across the marine and environmental sciences at the University of Algarve, in Faro, on 3 and 4 September.
The 7th edition of the Blue Think Conference (BTC) brought together early-career researchers from across the marine and environmental sciences at the University of Algarve, in Faro, on 3 and 4 September. Hosted at the Centre of Marine Sciences (CCMAR), the 2026 edition continued a tradition of collaboration between the doctoral communities of CIIMAR and CCMAR, strengthening the links between the two research centres and their early-career researchers.
Traditionally held at CIIMAR in Matosinhos, the Blue Think Conference now alternates between CIIMAR and CCMAR as venues, reflecting the ongoing collaboration between the two institutions within CIMAR-LA. This year’s edition brought the conference to the Algarve, providing two days of scientific exchange, interdisciplinary discussion and networking within the CIMAR-LA community.
The program
Three keynote speakers opened the scientific sessions, bringing complementary perspectives from different areas of marine and environmental research. Professor Dr. Sadasivam J. Kaushik, from the University of Las Palmas, addressed topics related to aquaculture and seafood quality, with the talk: “Strengths and limitations of “Bluefood” production”; Ana Grenha, from the CCMAR and the University of Algarve, focused on marine biotechnology and biomedicine with the talk: “New therapies growing on the basis of natural (marine) materials “; and Tasman Crowe, from University College Dublin, explored ecosystem services and human impacts on marine ecosystems with the talk: “Expanding Ireland’s network of Marine Protected Areas – an evidence-led participatory approach”.
Alongside the keynote presentations, the programme featured a series of scientific communications and poster sessions, giving participants the opportunity to present their research, exchange ideas and receive feedback from colleagues working across different disciplines.
A forum for discussion
The conference also extended beyond the scientific programme. A talk by Patrícia Nogueira, from AIMM – Marine Environment Research Association explored the Marine Protected Area of Pedra do Valado, while a round table brought contributions from António José Correira (Oceano Azul Foundation) or Miguel Rodrigues (DiveSpot) for discussion and exchange. Participants also had the opportunity to visit CCMAR laboratories, offering a closer look at the research taking place at the host centre.
Social programme
Social and networking activities, including kayaking, volleyball, an icebreaking activity and a sunset on the beach, complemented the conference programme and created further opportunities for participants to connect in a more informal setting.
The involvement of external partners and sponsors, ranging from technical laboratorial suppliers, aquaculture and fisheries industry, scientific networks and municipal entities, also highlighted the importance of connecting research with businesses and society at large. More than a scientific conference, the Blue Think Conference provides a space for early-career researchers to build connections, share knowledge and develop new collaborations across disciplines and institutions.
The 7th edition once again demonstrated the value of bringing the CIIMAR and CCMAR communities together and the role of CIMAR-LA in fostering collaboration across the marine and environmental research landscape.