Four postgraduate students sponsored under the 2026 Targeted Academic Sponsorship Programme recently came together at the Shellfish Association of Great Britain (SAGB) Annual Conference in London, gaining valuable insight into the sector while expanding their professional networks.
Held at The Crown Estate on 14 and 15 July, the SAGB conference brought together industry leaders, researchers, policymakers and seafood businesses to discuss topics ranging from sustainable fisheries and aquaculture development to market access, climate change and crustacean welfare.
The students attended a packed programme of presentations and panel discussions, including contributions from representatives of Defra, Seafish, Cefas, the University of Oxford and Exeter University.
Alongside the formal sessions, the event provided an excellent opportunity for the scholars to meet one another and connect with professionals from across the UK shellfish sector. Pictured above at the conference’s gala dinner, sponsored by the Fishmongers’ Company and held at Fishmongers’ Hall, Lola O’Mara (University of Essex), Alex Rain (University of St Andrews), and Sara Tudor and Xander Vladislavich (both from Bangor University) also had the chance to catch up with former Fishmongers’ scholars now working in industry and research roles, including Georgia Wells (far right, former student at the University of Plymouth), offering valuable perspectives on potential career pathways within the seafood and marine sectors.
The conference demonstrated the breadth of opportunities available across the shellfish industry and highlighted the importance of collaboration between academia, industry and policymakers. For the students, it was a valuable opportunity to broaden their knowledge, build relationships and become part of a growing network of seafood professionals.
The Fishmongers’ Targeted Academic Sponsorship Programme is pleased to support students engaged in applied fisheries research at a host of Universities around the UK. As part of our sponsorship, they receive invitations to industry events such as the SAGB Conference, helping the next generation of fisheries, aquaculture and marine science professionals develop the connections and experience needed for successful and relevant future careers in the sector.
© The Fishmongers’ Company 2026
