Sophia and Rikard work as marine environmental specialists
Sophia Hallberg and Rikard Karlsson are marine environmental specialists working with offshore renewable energy at the Nordic wind power company Zephyr. They have both studied the Bachelor's programme in Marine Science.
What do you do at work?
“We are carrying out sampling work for an offshore wind farm. It is a major project that has required extensive preparatory work, not least in terms of investigating how the operation will affect the surrounding environment. We’re working on everything from the permitting process to analysing sediment cores from the seafloor to investigate the presence of contaminants, and examine the impact of underwater noise on porpoises in the area,” says Sophia Hallberg.
“The wind farm will be located far out at sea, approximately three mil from the coast between Marstrand and Skagen, within the Swedish exclusive economic zone. This geographical location has made it particularly important to gather new data on the environment in the area, for example on wildlife and seabed conditions,” says Rikard Karlsson.
What is the best thing about the programme?
“We get to work closely with the lecturers and teachers. You also study a very broad range of subjects covering all aspects of the marine system – including biology, geology, chemistry and oceanography – but you can then specialise in one of these areas,” says Sophia Hallberg.
What aspects of the programme have been most useful to you in your work?
“The fact that we were able to take courses on board the R/V Skagerak and go out to sea to experience what it’s like to work on board a real research vessel. I know which instruments and methods are available for sampling. That has been absolutely invaluable to me in my current job. But also report writing and searching for information,” says Sophia Hallberg.
“For us, it’s important to foster links between industry and academia. In this way, industry can highlight the skills that are needed, which in the long run ensures that Sweden has the expertise required,” says Rikard Karlsson.