From Iceland to China: Advancing sustainable fisheries through science: Huixia Chen, GRÓ FTP alumni

Huixia Chen is a GRÓ Fisheries Training Programme fellow from the 2019-20 cohort. She holds a PhD from Dalian University of Technology in China. She currently works as a lecturer at Dalian Ocean University and supervises both undergraduate and graduate students in their thesis and dissertation projects.

With China’s large population it is very important to protect the ecological environment and Huixia underlines the importance of ecological environment and speaks highly of Iceland’s ability to protect and assess its marine and aquatic resources. Her focus in the GRÓ Fisheries Training Programme was stock assessment and now her research focus is on aquatic biology and aquaculture. Huixia says it was a great opportunity for her to come to Iceland and receive training in this area, “gaining first-hand insight into Iceland’s advanced fisheries sector, which thrives on close collaboration among the government, research institutions, and private enterprises.” Huixia stresses the importance of stock assessment in ensuring the sustainable use of ocean resources.

Turning knowledge into impact

According to Huixia overfishing has led to depletion of many fishery resources in China. She says that her stay in Iceland and participation in the GRÓ Fisheries Training Programme enabled her to better understand resource protection and assessment, utilizing advanced methodologies and science-based policies; knowledge she was able to bring back to China and contribute to society, as well as pass on her expertise to her students.

The training in the GRÓ Fisheries Training Programme has also helped her connect with students in her university and widen their perspectives. According to Huixia this has broadened her horizon, making it possible for her to become a better teacher as well as a supervisor. She says her introduction of data analysis techniques have intrigued her graduate students, and together they have applied data analysis techniques to the field of aquatic ecology which has resulted in publication of two papers. Her team at the university is pursuing further research in that area.

Experience that will last a lifetime

Huixia notes how her participation in the GRÓ Fisheries Training Programme enriched her perspective, as she gained valuable knowledge and experience: “We were fortunate to meet incredibly dedicated, humorous, and enthusiastic teachers, who created a relaxed yet enriching training environment for us.” She also mentions the fellows she met, who came from all over the world. “Together, we spent an unforgettable six months of training that left us with lasting friendships and cherished experiences.”

Huixia says her stay in Iceland was unforgettable, both for educational value and for the cultural and personal experience. “The knowledge and skills I gained in Iceland continue to broaden my professional horizon. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to learn some of the most advanced methodologies and concepts in the field of fisheries science in Iceland.”