SAHFOS and MBA are jointly organising the 2nd International Phytoplankton Identification Course to be held from 2 to 13 July 2012 in Plymouth, UK. The workshop is aimed at all those working in the marine phytoplankton field and participants will be expected to have a basic knowledge of microalgae.

This will be an interactive workshop which will cover classification & taxonomy of the major marine microalgal groups.  In addition, there will be a substantial practical element which will encompass a range of Methodologies & Techniques including: Sampling, Settling & Slide Preparation, Cell Counting, Isolation, Microscopy & Culturing. The proposed program will consist of a series of seminars and practical sessions, with tuition from specially selected international experts, including Carmelo Tomas, Karen Steidinger, Diana Sarno and Ian Probert.

The cost of participation is 1300 GBP + VAT (if applicable), inclusive of accommodation and meals. POGO is offering a grant to one participant from a developing country to attend the course. The grant will cover travel from the participant’s home to Plymouth, visa costs and the workshop fee. The list of eligible countries can be found here: http://ocean-partners.org/attachments/309_eligible_countries.pdf. 

For further details, and to apply, go to: http://www.mba.ac.uk/phytoplankton-workshop.

IMPORTANT NOTE: To apply for the POGO grant, please apply through the normal channels and clearly state on your application that you are applying for the POGO grant. The application deadline is 2 December 2011. Any queries relating to the POGO grant should be addressed to Sophie Seeyave ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ).

Although still in planning the major details can be found on the following website: http://www.mba.ac.uk/phytoplankton-workshop. Application deadline is 2 December 2011.