Throughout the last 10 years, Kathrine Angell-Hansen has played a central role in the inception and development of JPI Oceans into the platform it is today. As the first Executive Director of JPI Oceans, Kathrine was key in orchestrating the development of the initial vision of the new initiative, as well as the co-designing of the Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda, which consolidated the role of JPI Oceans in the European landscape. With a powerhouse combination of enthusiasm and perseverance, Kathrine was also at the forefront of initially piloting - and then fully developing - the JPI Oceans Joint Actions, including iconic ones such as the ecological aspects of microplastics.
Kathrine’s experience from working on the Integrated Maritime Policy at the European Commission gave rise to her focus on a co-creation approach in the development of these activities, engaging the relevant user authorities with the scientific community from the outset. In the process, Kathrine collaborated closely with the European Commission and regional sea-basin initiatives, while also growing the international dimensions of JPI Oceans beyond Europe.
During her time at JPI Oceans, Kathrine was seconded to the secretariat by Norway. After over a decade in Brussels, Kathrine will soon be moving back to her native Oslo, where she will continue her work as Deputy Director General at the Norwegian Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries.
The JPI Oceans secretariat and Management Board would like to thank Kathrine wholeheartedly for her years of dedication and intense work in starting up JPI Oceans, upscaling its work and activities, and building the community to its present-day status. We wish her a wonderful beginning to this new chapter returning to her home country, and many more professional achievements in her role at the Ministry.