Myron Peck joins NIOZ as new Head of Coastal Systems

Robust, science-based advice

As a scientist, Peck aims to answer ecological questions and provide robust, science-based advice for policy initiatives. An approach that fits well with the work of his new Department. Peck: ‘COS has an important role to play in providing the highest-quality science-based advice needed to create effective climate adaptation plans.’ As Head of Department, Peck looks to further strengthen bridges both within COS, across NIOZ, and among partner institutions in the Netherlands and globally. Peck: ‘It’s a real privilege for me to join the team and provide advice to the director and leads of the other departments on how best to steer the NIOZ ship.’

Before joining NIOZ, Peck was Professor of Experimental Biological Oceanography at the University of Hamburg. His research combines knowledge on the physiology of marine invertebrates and fish, social-ecological field research, and various types of models to gain a cause-and-effect understanding of how environmental drivers, such as climate change, influence marine species, habitats and sectors such as aquaculture and fisheries.

'Get my feet wet'

Peck will continue his work on two of his ongoing research projects at NIOZ. The EU project FutureMARES focuses on climate change and future marine ecosystem services and biodiversity. A second project, SOMBEE, is designed to advance the capacity to forecast future changes in marine fish biodiversity under climate change and fishing scenarios. Peck: ‘This will help me get my feet wet in the laboratory and field.’