The International Association of Maritime Universities (IAMU) proudly highlights the recent meeting of its Working Group on Research Projects, held in February at Liverpool John Moores University’s Health, Innovation, Science and Technology (HITS) campus. The gathering brought together a distinguished and entirely female delegation, marking a moment of both academic progress and representation across the global maritime education community.
The working group, chaired by Dr Robyn Pyne of Liverpool John Moores University, convened to discuss academic priorities, quality enhancement, and new avenues for research collaboration across IAMU’s growing international network. The working group is responsible for setting the annual research grant themes, overseeing the review and selection process for the award of research grants, and approving the final reports for all successfully completed IAMU‑funded projects.
Working Group on Research Projects:
- Dr Robyn Pyne (Chair) — Liverpool John Moores University, UK
- Dr Sasilatha T — AMET University, India
- Dr Peggy Shu‑Ling Chen — Australian Maritime College, Tasmania
The meeting at LJMU’s HITS campus not only advanced IAMU’s academic agenda, but the visit also included a programme of cultural activities across Liverpool, giving delegates the chance to experience the city’s rich maritime heritage, vibrant waterfront, and unique cultural character as part of their time at LJMU.
This is the first time an IAMU working group or committee has been all-female. Dr. Robyn Pyne, Chair of the Working Group on Research Projects said, ‘this is a powerful and visible step in strengthening women’s leadership within maritime education and academia’. IAMU acknowledges the importance of gender representation in maritime research and education, and this all-female working group exemplifies the transformative progress underway across the maritime sector.
Reported by
Dr. Robyn Pyne
Chair of the Working Group on Research Projects
