We are back with the fourth edition of the Raincoast Ocean Science Awards! 

We are so excited to announce the fourth annual Raincoast Ocean Science Awards, celebrating outstanding achievements by individuals and groups striving to protect coastal lands, waters, and wildlife through science, Indigenous Knowledge systems, and public engagement. 

This year’s ceremony will be taking place November 26th, returning to the Vancouver Aquarium.

The 2025 awards were hosted at the Vancouver Aquarium, where it all started!

Last year’s recipients

• Isobel Pearsall won the North Award for Lifetime Contribution for her dedication to helping build the research programs, partnerships, and community-based initiatives that underpin the conservation of Pacific salmon and their habitats both nationally and internationally. 

• Doug Neasloss won the Newman Award for Excellence in Conservation and Research. Doug is the visionary former chief councilor of the Kitasoo Xai’xais Nation, and the current director of the Nation’s Stewardship Authority. For more than two decades, he has been a driving force behind major protections for marine ecosystems, the integration of land and marine planning, and the development of world-class ecotourism rooted in his Nation’s values and territory.

• The Raincoast Student Award was offered to Kiara Kattler to celebrate her innovative, collaborative, and community-driven research on invasive green crab and coastal predator dynamics, setting a new standard for how applied ocean science can inform real-world action. 

• Finally, the Nightingale Bursary in Ocean Engagement was awarded to the Marine Education and Research Society for demonstrating what true ocean engagement looks like: science-based outreach, clear and compelling education, and a remarkable ability to reach people where they are – from boaters, coastal communities, educators, and the broader public – to mobilize real behavioural change for marine mammals along our coast. 

The 2026 Raincoast Ocean Science Awards Nominations

Nominations are now open for the 2026 Raincoast Ocean Science Awards. We invite you to nominate individuals and groups who are advancing ocean science and conservation. 

Nominations close September 15th. Submit yours using the form below: 

Honouring a Legacy of Ocean Science and Conservation 

Originally established in 1995 as the Murray A. Newman Awards at the Vancouver Aquarium, these awards have long celebrated leadership in ocean science and conservation in British Columbia. Raincoast is proud to continue this legacy. 

Raincoast has been applying a unique model of informed advocacy to protect the lands, waters, and wildlife of coastal BC for over 25 years. All of our projects are rooted in rigorous, peer-reviewed research and science, and informed by community engagement. 

Award Categories 

North Award for Lifetime Contribution to Ocean Conservation

Granted to an individual whose lifelong commitment to ocean conservation serves as an enduring example to all.

The Newman Award for Excellence in Conservation and Research

Presented to an individual, team, or organization for significant work and/or an entire career of leading contributions in ocean research and/or conservation.

The Raincoast Student Award

Recognizes outstanding research undertaken by graduate students.

The Nightingale Award in Ocean Engagement

Honours individuals or organizations making a meaningful impact in improving the world’s oceans through engagement activities that harness knowledge and science. This award includes a $25,000 bursary to support initiatives that inspire, educate, and empower public participation in ocean conservation.