ABOUT WOS
We exist because the
Ocean needs all of us.
Women in Ocean Science is a UK registered charity tackling the gendered barriers that prevent women from fully contributing to, and being protected by, marine science. Our mission is to empower women to thrive in ocean-related careers, because supporting women is protecting the ocean.
OUR VISION
A world where every woman in ocean science can do their best work safely, visibly, and without limits. Where women’s voices lead ocean policy, women-led research shapes our understanding of the sea, and the institutions of marine science reflect the full diversity of those working to protect it.
MADELINE ST CLAIR | Founder
"Women need a bigger seat at the table”
“We're squandering one of the most powerful tools we have for ecosystem resilience by keeping female voices from the ocean conversation.”
2018
Founded as a CIC in 2018, WOS became a registered charity in 2024 to address the gender inequity in marine science and conservation, whilst highlighting the intrinsic link between the need to protect the ocean and the need for a diverse, inclusive workforce of those working to protect it.
OUR MISSION STATEMENT
To empower women to thrive in ocean-related careers by providing essential support, training, and development opportunities because supporting women is protecting the ocean.
Empowering women to thrive
Ocean issues are female issues. We put gender equality at the heart of marine science and conservation working to end bias, discrimination and harassment, and empowering women to feel safe at work and confident in their careers.
Inspiring the next generation of ocean scientists
Future generations will inherit overwhelming ocean crises. We tackle long-standing gendered barriers to increase accessibility, break down socio-economic and educational barriers, and help women from all backgrounds to become active stewards of the marine environment.
Elevating female voices, research and stories
We strive for better representation across marine science, disproving stereotypes, increasing the visibility of female role models, giving female-led research the recognition it deserves, and amplifying marginalised voices.
Building a global community of ocean advocates
Not just a network, it’s a global community of female scientists, conservationists and ocean advocates. We've built the largest global network of women in ocean science and conservation in the world, creating a space to connect, uplift and mentor one another.
Our community already spans 30 countries across 6 continents.
We are actively working to extend that reach further, because the more women we can connect, support, and uplift, the greater our impact.
