Background

MyOcean came into being through conversations held in that cauldron of creativity, the pub, specifically 'The Platform Tavern' in Southampton.

Amongst most postgrad Marine Science students there is a noticeable gap in support between the time of submission of their theses and their attainment of a research post. This period of time can be hard for the postgrads as they try to make ends meet and still pursue their goal of a career in research. Many have to take part time jobs completely unrelated to Marine Science, from which the experience gained will not directly help develop their research career. The harsh reality is that during, and due to, this period many qualified and talented researchers leave Marine Science.

MyOcean was set up to try and prevent talented, qualified researchers from leaving Marine Science by providing them with relevant short-term work experience, and thereby funds to finance the job search process and tools to help in the job search process itself.

Also it was a desperate attempt to stop 'Stuart' from having to dress up as a pirate at the local ASDA; we feared both for his sanity and his loss from Marine Science!