UK marine research is at a special moment in time. We have a window of opportunity to persuade the government of the benefits that come from understanding the ocean, and of the importance of investing in the infrastructure we rely on to carry out our vital work - that's ships, buoys, satellites, autonomous vehicles, and more.

The Future Marine Research Infrastructure (FMRI) programme is trying to secure that funding, ensuring we can plan and carry out critical ocean research for the next 20 - 30 years.

But, what actually is FMRI? How does it work? And why do we all need to get involved in the process?

In this new four-part podcast series, join ocean scientist and broadcaster Dr. Helen Czerski as she speaks with key voices from across the ocean research community, from the head of FMRI to fellow marine researchers, and even a space scientist with experience navigating large-scale project funding.

Together, they unpick the biggest questions facing UK marine research today: What does the future of ocean research look like on a changing planet? How can we balance the carbon emissions of ships while committing to net zero? Will autonomous vehicles really replace the need for scientists to go to sea? How will we manage all that data? And, most importantly, how can we work together to secure the funding required to keep doing crucial research?

Be part of the conversation - questions, comments, and concerns submitted to www.FMRI.ac.uk by the 20th of May will be brought to the FMRI team and answered on the final episode.