University experts help unlock the Secrets of the Sea

Our academics have contributed to a new series by the BBC and The Conversation that showcases local stories with global significance

Mr Alan Williams

Media and Communications Manager

Corporate Communications (Marketing and Communications)

24 June 2025

Researchers from the University of Plymouth have contributed to a new collaboration between The Conversation and BBC South West.

Secrets of the Sea aims to showcase local stories with global significance, and features world-leading experts based across Devon and Cornwall who are at the forefront of marine research.

In articles published on The Conversation, and interviews broadcast on BBC Radio Devon and BBC Sounds, they have highlighted the importance of ongoing work on topics including seaweeds and seagrass, marine fungi, seabed restoration and offshore shellfish farming.

The series features a number of academics from our School of Biological and Marine Sciences

Professor Martin Attrill wrote about ways to inspire people’s connection to the ocean, based on his 40-year career as a marine ecologist

Mussel reefs forming on the seabed underneath the ropes managed by Offshore Shellfish Ltd

Dr Emma Sheehan and Dr Llucia Mascorda-Cabre wrote about their work to assess the ecological benefits of the UK’s largest offshore mussel farm

functional biology and ecology of aquatic fungi

Professor Michael Cunliffe wrote about his research into marine fungi and how they could help feed the world and fight disease

Listen to Professor Martin Attrill's interview on BBC Sounds

Dr Emma Sheehan, Marine Institute Research Fellow

Dr Emma Sheehan talks about offshore mussel farms on BBC Sounds

Professor Michael Cunliffe speaks about his marine fungi research on BBC Sounds

Secrets of the sea is presented by Anna Turns, Senior Environment Editor at The Conversation, and produced by Jo Loosemore at BBC South West.

From the rocky foreshore in Torquay to the mussel-covered pontoons of Plymouth harbour, I've been speaking to scientists about their work, their passions and the potential for our oceans to hold the key to climate resilience.

Healthier seas mean our planet will be much better able to weather the stormy seas of the climate crisis. Each of the radio programmes and accompanying articles delves into a different aspect of our oceans. Through 19th-century archives, in tiny test tubes on a lab bench or inside a walk-in fridge full of marine fungi, this series explores creative ways to study ocean health.

Anna Turns
Senior Environment Editor at The Conversation

Students choose Plymouth for courses related to the sea. Find out why:

Marine and ocean degree courses, research and education in Britain’s Ocean City