Marion Fourquez, PhD

What’s the work that you do?

I am a researcher in marine biogeochemistry. My primary focus is on the Southern Ocean, but I have recently expanded my research to include the Arctic Ocean as well. My main interest lies in understanding the biological carbon pump, which is one of the most crucial global processes for sequestering CO2. In particular, I study the interactions between microorganisms (e.g., phytoplankton and bacteria) and their environment (e.g., nutrient resources, stress) to assess the ecosystem’s capacity and resilience.

What keeps you going?

Science is as wonderful as the world of research is challenging. I have found myself stepping away on several occasions to take a deep breath. However, I keep coming back to this competitive world because it provides me with the unique opportunity to experience polar regions on my terms. I also derive great satisfaction from being on oceanographic vessels and pushing myself in demanding conditions. Ultimately, it is always a privilege to wake up in the morning with a new question and have the ability to answer it, as that is what defines my job.

What’s your message to the world?

It has been, and still is, a long quest for me to work in polar regions. It remains a privilege and requires dedicated effort to visit these areas from time to time. I hope the world can wholeheartedly recognize the need to protect the polar regions and acknowledge that those who visit should be deserving. Understanding the ecosystem is the key to promoting its beauty, as humans have a tendency to protect what they find truly captivating.