Hanna Sannes wins NOR-FISHING Student Camp 2024
Hanna Sannes, master’s student in biodiversity, ecology and evolution, recently triumphed with her team at NOR-FISHING Student Camp competition, pitching an idea for the digitalization of fish spawning data.
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How did you come across the NOR-FISHING Student camp, and what motivated you to apply?
I found out about the camp through an email from Prof. Katja Enberg, my course leader for SG14. The camp’s theme, "More Food from the Ocean," aligned with what we were studying, which piqued my interest. Despite feeling uncertain about what to expect, I decided to apply, and fortunately, I was selected to participate.
Your idea for the competition was a project related to digitalizing fish spawning data. How did your interdisciplinary team come up with this idea?
Our team, consisting of Fahim Anwar, PhD candidate in international business from NTNU, Sigurd Nash Reksen biology student also from NTNU, and myself, was given three case studies. We chose the case study “How can digitalization help improve operations in aquaculture and fisheries to accelerate the industry's development in a sustainable direction?” as we were intrigued by the challenge posed by exploring something outside our usual expertise.
What was your proposed idea to the case?
We proposed to digitalize fish spawning data by using smart buoys equipped with various sensors to monitor water conditions and track spawning areas. By analyzing this data, we could develop algorithms to predict future spawning sites. This would provide valuable insights for fisheries, aquaculture, marine biologists, and policymakers, helping to manage resources more effectively.
How would this technology address issues like climate change?
The technology would help monitor shifts in spawning areas caused by climate change. By predicting future spawning locations, we can better manage fisheries and protect critical spawning grounds, ensuring sustainable practices despite changing environmental conditions.
Are you considering developing this idea further?
Yes, we’re exploring possibilities for advancing the project. We’re looking into starting with a pilot project and seeking support from experts and potential collaborators to bring the idea to fruition.
Do you see potential for turning this idea into a start-up?
We definitely see potential. We’re considering ways to develop the idea further, possibly through a pilot project. There’s strong interest in pursuing this, and we’re exploring avenues for support and collaboration.
How do you perceive the connection between academic research and the private sector?
I believe it’s crucial to bridge the gap between academia and industry. Practical collaborations, like working on case studies from companies as we did at NOR-FISHING Student Camp, can lead to innovative solutions for real-world problems. Engaging with the private sector can provide students with valuable insights and opportunities to apply their research in meaningful ways.
Learn more about NOR-FISHING Student Camp here: https://nor-fishing.no/
ABOUT HANNA
Hanna completed her bachelor’s in biology at the University of Bergen and is currently pursuing a master’s in biodiversity, ecology, and evolution.
Her passion for animals and the environment has always been a driving force, motivating her to advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves.
This dedication led her to pursue marine biology and work toward protecting and understanding marine ecosystems, as well as deepening her knowledge of ecological systems through her studies.
