Ashleigh is a passionate marine biologist and environmental advocate. She is educated formally with a BSc. (Hons) Biology and MRes Marine Mammal Genetics from the University of Chester, UK. She conducted research utilising stranding data to compile population genetics of long-finned pilot whales (Globicephala melas) across the UK. She has been fortunate enough to work in the energy, NGO and tourism sectors, working offshore in various roles. Ashleigh is passionate about onboarding environmental advocates and has developed and delivered webinars, conferences and, training courses at all levels. She now works as a consultant and her main areas of expertise are marine mammal ecology, policy and legislation, impact assessments and acoustics. Ashleigh is a commercially-minded research-driven individual and would like to bring her experience to the Marine Mammal Observer Association (MMOA) executive committee to create a network of empowered Marine Mammal Observers (MMOs) and professionals internationally.
Chairs opening remarks Saturday @ 9:00 AM
Ashley Noseworthy, CEO and founder of Edgewise Environmental, a Newfoundland-based marine consultancy focusing on marine mammals, seabirds and anthropogenic noise mitigation solutions. Holding an MSc from Newcastle University and a BSc from Memorial University, she spent over a decade at sea, contributing to major energy projects in West Africa, the Arctic, Eastern Canada and the Arabian Gulf. Recognized for her achievements, she received the 2022 NLOWE Trailblazer Award and was listed among the Top 100 Inspirational Female Founders of Ocean and Energy in 2023 by The Ocean Opportunity Lab. Ashley is involved in various national and international boards, including Oceans Advance and the IMarEST Marine Mammal Special Interest Group, advocating for women in STEM. She serves as an advisor for the Destination Canada Sustainability Task Force and the Women in Resources Advisory Committee for the Minister of Industry, Energy, and Technology, embodying a commitment to breaking boundaries in non-traditional roles.
From MMO to CEO – A Career in Marine Mammal Mitigation Saturday @ 9:10 AM
Panel Session Saturday @ 2:15 PM
Following a PhD on barnacles, Carolyn spent 5 years with the JNCC's Seabirds at Sea Team but has spent the last 25+ years working in MMO-related areas. She has substantial experience working as an MMO covering seismic surveys, drilling, dredging and pile-driving operations. She has been an accredited MMO trainer since 1996 and has trained over 3000 MMOs. Carolyn has also been involved in the development of mitigation measures and data recording protocols. She has created and analysed JNCC's database of MMO data from UK waters, including analysis of a 25-year dataset to examine the effects of geophysical surveys on marine mammals and compliance with the JNCC guidelines. Carolyn recognises the importance of maintaining professional standards and is pleased to have served on the MMOA committee since 2007.
MMO data – the importance of quality Saturday @ 10:10 AM
Dolphin-itely Advanced: AI-Powered Marine Mammal Monitoring Saturday @ 3:20 PM
Lorenzo is a senior marine scientist in the Bioscience group at Seiche with 15 years of expertise in marine mammal bioacoustics, monitoring and underwater noise measurements projects. Lorenzo provides technical support on Seiche monitoring systems to offshore consultants, and leads project operations in the field. Lorenzo completed his master’s in marine & Fisheries Science from the University of Aberdeen in 2008. He has specific expertise in the installation, maintenance and operation of acoustic monitoring systems deployed on offshore oil and gas, and offshore wind farm developments, including geophysical surveys, pile driving and UXO disposal projects. Lorenzo is also a Chartered Marine Scientist with the IMarEST.
Underwater noise monitoring: technology, methods, and the role of the noise monitoring operator Saturday @ 3:45 PM
Maja has an extensive background in the marine mammal field, spanning nearly 25 years. Her experience encompasses research, industry, consultancy, and government advisory roles. She began her career as a researcher, studying bottlenose dolphins in the Adriatic Sea. Later, she moved to roles as a Marine Mammal Observer (MMO), Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) operator, and MMO trainer. She continued her career in the consultancy field, working primarily for offshore wind, oil and gas, nuclear industries, and scientific institutions. She specialized in marine mammal mitigation, providing guidance on global legislation, research development, and impact assessments. She is currently a Senior Marine Mammal Specialist at Natural England, where she provides expert advice for regulatory casework, consultations, and strategic solutions. Maja is a Chartered Scientist and Chartered Marine Scientist at IMarEST.
Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) with a key focus on marine mammals and offshore wind Saturday @ 11:45 AM
The IMarEST & Professional Development Saturday @ 3:10 PM
Stephen works for the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group on marine policy with a particular focus on underwater noise and the upcoming rollout of ORE in Irish waters. He comes from a background of years spent offshore as an MMO and PAM operator, having worked as a contractor all over the world on marine seismic and latterly ORE projects. He also has consultancy experience in impact assessment under the EC Habitats Directive and Irish legislation.
The progression of underwater noise mitigation in Irish waters – an opportunity to substantially protect marine mammals Saturday @ 10:30 AM
