A Personal Reflection on Stereo-BRUVs Field Based Training and Workshop
As an early-career marine researcher, I recently had the privilege of participating in an immersive deep-sea training workshop hosted by the South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity (NRF-SAIAB), under the umbrella of the South African Polar Research Infrastructure (SAPRI) – a Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) programme.
The workshop focused on developing hands-on expertise in using Baited Remote Underwater Stereo-Video Systems (stereo-BRUVs), with special emphasis on deep-water Lander BRUVs, sophisticated camera systems designed to operate at depths previously unreachable by conventional methods. The landers were deployed to 300 m, 600 m, and 1000 m. This highlighted the versatility and adaptability of BRUVs technology across diverse marine habitats. I was actively involved in gear setup, as well as assisting with deployment and retrieval of the landers, which deepened my appreciation for the precision and care this kind of work requires. Being hands on with such advanced technology was both exciting and humbling.
In addition to fieldwork, the workshop included engaging land-based sessions covering everything from equipment calibration and video annotation to data management, essential components to ensuring a successful BRUVs survey.
The workshop was truly international in scope, with participants joining us from Trinidad, Seychelles and Cape Verde. This workshop was more than technical training; it was an opportunity to build networks, confidence, and long-term capacity for deep-sea research. What made this experience especially meaningful was the strong sense of community and shared purpose. I was surrounded by fellow early-career researchers, experienced mentors, and technical staff, all eager to contribute, collaborate, and learn. The atmosphere was one of mutual respect and curiosity, fostering open and dynamic learning.
I’m incredibly grateful to have been part of this initiative, and I am even more excited to apply what I’ve learned to future projects. Working alongside passionate mentors and as part of a dedicated team committed to marine science has been an experience I will carry with me for years to come.
