We are pleased to invite you to the EXAQUA Workshop Session 1 – “Innovation and inspiration for algae aquaculture.” This opening session will explore pioneering research and innovative solutions driving the future of algae aquaculture in Europe and the Black Sea region.
When: 30 October 2025, Constanța, Romania
Registration: visit this link to register

Industry challenges and innovation priorities for European Algae
Speaker: David Bassett, EATIP
Secretary General of EATiP, he has been a central figure in European aquaculture research and policy for nearly two decades. He engages with EU initiatives and partnerships to advance innovation, sustainability, and circular smart aquaculture, ensuring the sector’s priorities are reflected in strategic agendas.
Harnessing seaweed for sustainable protein: the SEAWHEAT approach (Seawheat – COST Action)
Speaker: Jonas Blomme, Ghent University
Associate Professor at UGent, he is a molecular biologist who pioneered the development of the first stable tagged lines in seaweed. His research combines genomics, molecular tools, and CRISPR mutagenesis to study seaweed gene function and advance scalable solutions for carbon capture and sustainable protein production.
Integrating innovative aquaculture systems: resource-efficient and circular solutions (INNOAQUA Project)
Speaker: Hanna Böpple, NORCE Research
A researcher in sustainable biotechnology and microalgae cultivation, she has been working at NORCE since 2017. Her PhD research focused on using residual waste streams for microalgae production and evaluating the sustainability and logistics of aquaculture systems, contributing to a more circular blue economy.