https://oceanexpert.org/expert/52008

ORCID : 0000-0001-5776-9484

MSc

Teaching/Education
Research
Extension Services (Public Awareness)

Biological Oceanography, Marine Ecology
Fisheries, Aquaculture

My research activities focus on marine biodiversity, phycology, ocean literacy, science communication, and the use of immersive technologies to strengthen ocean sustainability. As a marine biologist and oceanographer, my scientific work has centered on the taxonomy, ecology, biology and distribution of marine algae, particularly macroalgae from the central coast of Chile. My research has addressed intertidal algal communities, seasonal and environmental variation in red algae, non-native species, algal resources, and the ecological relevance of coastal habitats. I have also contributed to international assessments on the intertidal zone and global ocean literacy, including the World Ocean Assessment III and the IOC-UNESCO State of the Ocean Report 2024.

A second and increasingly central area of my work is ocean literacy and public engagement with marine science. I lead Cultura Oceánica en 360°, an interdisciplinary initiative that transforms ocean science into immersive, participatory and territorial experiences. Through 360° virtual reality, 3D animation, educational guides, field-based learning, community workshops and art-science activities, we connect diverse audiences with marine biodiversity, coastal ecosystems, climate change, pollution, algae, wetlands and the cultural value of the ocean. The initiative is structured around four lines of action: immersive narratives, territorial education, participatory creation and science diplomacy.

My current activities also include the development and direction of immersive science productions such as Cultura Oceánica en 360°, 104.5°: Molecule of Life, Dimensión Sumergida: Torpederas and Algaritmo, as well as educational resources such as Descubriendo Montemar and Humedal Vivo: Biodiversidad en Reñaca. These projects combine marine ecology, education, storytelling and technology to promote emotional connection, knowledge acquisition and action for ocean conservation.

In addition, I participate in national and international networks related to ocean literacy, blue education and science-policy interfaces. I represent Chile in the IOC-UNESCO Ocean Literacy Group of Experts, contribute to the Chilean Working Group on Ocean Literacy of the National Oceanographic Committee, and participate in spaces linked to the UN Ocean Decade, APEC, Peace Boat, Blue Schools and the Chilean Senate. Through these activities, I work to position ocean literacy as a tool for education, conservation, public participation and ocean governance. 

South Pacific Ocean

Marine biodiversity research; phycology; taxonomy, ecology and biology of marine algae; intertidal ecology; ocean literacy; science communication; environmental education; immersive storytelling; 360° virtual reality and science-based audiovisual production; design of educational and participatory experiences; public engagement with marine science; science-policy dialogue; ocean governance and science diplomacy; project leadership; interdisciplinary coordination; academic editing; scientific writing in Spanish and English; university teaching and capacity building.

English
German
Spanish

ResearchGate

https://www.linkedin.com/in/pilar-munoz-muga-75145921/

My profile combines scientific expertise in marine biodiversity, intertidal ecosystems and macroalgae with experience in ocean literacy, capacity-building and science-policy dialogue. I am interested in contributing to WOA IV by supporting the identification of regional priorities for the South Pacific, strengthening the integration of coastal and intertidal knowledge, and promoting assessment processes that are scientifically robust, inclusive and useful for decision-making. As a previous contributor to WOA III, I am especially motivated to continue supporting the Regular Process and its role in connecting ocean science, policy and society.