The Natural Environment Research Council has launched a consultation on a proposal to merge the British Antarctic Survey and the National Oceanographic Centre.
The consultation outlines the vision for the proposed centre “to become by 2020 a world-leading centre for integrated marine and polar science”.
The listed objectives for the merger include tackling scientific problems of “greatest global significance” together, making efficiency savings, and maximising resources for expensive projects.
Edward Hill, director of the National Oceanography Centre, was named as interim director of the BAS in April, taking over from Nick Owens.
The deadline for responses to the consultation is 10 October.