Contact person: Jan David Heuschele. Email: janheu@uio.no
Group web site: MACROCOP - The hidden role of copepods in coastal macroalgae for marine ecosystem functioning
Brief description of the research group
Our research group tries to unravel the role of small invertebrates (copepods) living in seaweed along Norway. We ask basic questions like "who are the animals living there, how many are there, and who eats whom"? The core group consists of 2 researchers and 3 master students, and we are embedded in the section “Aquatic Biology and Toxicology” at the Department of Biosciences, but we have many more collaborators in the section and outside the university (see MACROCOP project website for more information).
Motivation for collaborating with an artist
I think art and science are two different ways to look at the world. While we as scientists need to find an objective, measurable truth, art can give access to a collective or individualistic perception of nature, which often can reveal new insights and questions about our scientific topics. With regards to the project, I would like to explore whether it is possible to make the world and life experience of the small copepods experienceable to humans.
Examples of activities that the artist can participate in
The artist can participate in taking samples in the seaweed belt at the biological station in Drøbak, participate in lab experiments, group meetings, and has access to microscopes and cameras.
Work space / time period:
The artist can work in Kristine Bonnevies hus in Blindern and probably get access to the facilitites at the field station in Drøbak.
Late summer 2026 and spring 2027.