Florence Huron

Florence Huron, head of projects and exhibitions at Nausicaá in France, is a visionary leader whose work has redefined the role of aquariums in public engagement, scientific innovation, and ocean advocacy. In this role, she consistently provides immersive, educational, and emotionally compelling experiences that connect millions of visitors with the wonders and fragility of the marine environment.

In 2024, Huron led the development of Journey into the Abyss, a permanent exhibition that reveals deep-sea mysteries. Created in collaboration with Ifremer, it combines science with sensory storytelling. Visitors explore 180m² of space featuring aquariums of deep-sea species, interactive exhibits, and a submersible simulator. Designed to be accessible and inclusive, it employs humour, gamification, and hands-on learning to simplify ecological concepts for visitors of all ages.

She is the driving force behind Nausicaá’s Blue Living Lab, supporting ocean startups through incubation, prototyping, and public engagement. By integrating citizen science and co-design workshops, she established a platform where conservation, entrepreneurship, and education meet. Projects like Lineup Ocean’s bio-inspired resilience modules are shaping future sustainable marine technology.

As a key organiser and reading committee coordinator for the International Aquarium Congress (IAC), Huron has contributed to shaping global discussions on the role of aquariums in conservation, education, and innovation. Her leadership in curating and assessing scientific content ensures that the IAC continues to be a beacon of excellence and collaboration within the sector.

What distinguishes her is her capacity to combine creativity with purpose. Her work demonstrates how aquariums act as agents of change, shaping public behaviour, promoting science, and inspiring hope during an environmental crisis.

Florence Huron’s work at Nausicaá has influenced over 900,000 visitors each year, supported emerging innovators, and enhanced the international reputation of aquariums as centres of influence.