“In the world of science at least in the Oceanographic Institute, the percentage of women is higher in men and is betting to occupy managerial positions.”

María Victoria Besada Montenegro Doctor in Chemical Sciences and director of the Oceanographic Center of Vigo of the Spanish Institute of Oceanography (IEO). 2017 Cidade Medal

Q_ As director, speaker and organizer of the International Symposium of Marine Sciences 2018 could you tell us what stands out from its celebration here in Vigo?

A_ It has been very important to be held in Vigo because it has put the city in the crosshairs of the Marine Research.

There have been many different contributions in this Symposium since there have been many Congresses each with different objectives and with many multidisciplinary fields with which they have made different contributions and conclusions.

It has also been interesting that I have put many people from the marine world in contact with many young students and then do postdoctoral research stays.

Q_ What would you highlight of the “Cíes World Heritage” Congress, whose request as a Natural Property is presented to UNESCO?

A_The issue of the Cíes Islands was treated as a Natural Heritage: how was the request made to UNESCO taking as an example the Coco Island located in the Pacific Ocean belonging to Costa Rica and declared a National Park at the present time.

Q_ How do you see the integration of women in the field of Marine Sciences?

A_In the world of science, at least in the Oceanographic Institute, the percentage of women is higher than that of men and they are betting that they occupy managerial positions. Of the 9 Oceanographic Centers there are 4 women directors. Years ago there was only one female director, nowadays she has changed a lot.

Q_ How can you help mitigate the problem of red tides?

A_ The problem of the so-called red tides are the harmful microalgae being a natural phenomenon impossible to prevent.

What is being valued and investigations are being made to determine if they can be increased with human activities.

Q_ Where will the next International Marine Science Symposium be held?

A_ The ISMS is celebrated every two years, being the next venue in Barcelona in the year 2020.

What you have to see is whether it develops as ISMS only or with the Iberian Seminar on Marine Chemistry or other symposiums jointly this year.

Vigo, June 2018. By Ania Casal