Data and Information

At the Marine Biological Association (MBA), high quality data form the core of our research. From long-term observations to world-class science, including the globally significant Continuous Plankton Recorder (CPR) Survey, we generate a wide range of data and information that underpin our understanding of marine systems.

Our focus is on ensuring these knowledge assets are well managed, discoverable, and accessible for reuse. By supporting the full lifecycle of research data—from planning and collection through to publication and long-term stewardship—we maximise the value and impact of MBA science, enabling it to inform policy, management, and future research.

MBA plays a key role in national and international data initiatives, supporting the evidence requirements of UK Marine Strategy, and contributing to MEDIN, and wider European data infrastructures. We host the UK node of the Ocean Biodiversity Information System (OBIS-UK), supporting the mobilisation of marine biodiversity data to global networks. Through the UK Archive for Marine Species and Habitats Data (DASSH), we act as custodians and publishers of a wide range of marine biodiversity datasets on behalf of the UK marine science community, extending the reach and impact of data beyond individual projects and organisations.

By aligning with recognised standards and FAIR principles, and by connecting datasets with publications and other research outputs, we enhance visibility, support collaboration, and create new opportunities for insight—ensuring that MBA research continues to deliver value beyond individual projects.

Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML) provides a diverse portfolio of marine data spanning in-situ observations (including approaches such as eDNA), Earth observation, modelling, socio-economic, and image-based data.

These data are organised and co-developed across communities of practice, supporting research, policy, and operational decision-making from local to global scales.

One of PML’s longest-running programmes is the Western Channel Observatory,  a globally significant marine time series that combines sustained in situ measurements, vessel sampling, and atmospheric observations to track environmental and ecosystem change over decades.

This includes the Penlee Point Atmospheric Observatory (PPAO), which provides unique measurements of air–sea interactions by sampling both clean Atlantic and more polluted continental air masses.

PML also hosts the NERC Earth Observation Data Acquisition and Analysis Service delivering satellite-derived products and indicators in near real time as well as long-term datasets. Alongside this, PML contributes to operational and regional modelling, including collaborations with the Met Office and the Plymouth Sound forecasting system.

PML data are archived in appropriate national data centres. In parallel, ongoing activities focus on improving the accessibility and interoperability of near real-time data through the development of FAIR metadata and data services. By aligning with recognised standards and linking datasets with publications and other research outputs, PML enhances visibility, supports collaboration, and helps ensure that its data continue to deliver value beyond individual projects. Making data FAIR and machine-readable also enables it to drive emerging data science approaches and tools, supporting new insights and innovation.

We welcome further engagement to help shape, develop, and improve PML’s data products and supporting metadata. For further information, please contact PML’s Data Systems Architect here.