If you ask Kolbeinn what drives him as a scientist, he’ll tell you it’s curiosity and exploration. Those two words weave through everything he does — from his fascination with marine life to his love of art, music, and nature. Currently pursuing his master’s studies at the University of Iceland, Kolbeinn is diving into the world of Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua). His research focuses on the depth distribution, age, and growth of 0-group (juvenile) Atlantic cod following benthic settlement in Seyðisfjörður, Iceland. It’s an important stage in the cod’s life, one that helps scientists better understand early survival and habitat use — key pieces of the puzzle in marine ecology and fisheries management.
The Scientist Behind the Research
When asked what he wanted to be growing up, Kolbeinn replied:
“Something creative but something in nature as well — maybe a shaman or a witch.”
That mix of creativity and connection to the natural world has clearly stayed with him. He says curiosity and exploration are still his greatest sources of motivation, and he’s drawn to biology because it lets him explore both the mystery and the mechanics of life.
Favourite Fish
Kolbeinn couldn’t choose just one — and honestly, we don’t blame him.
“Either Lumpfish (Cyclopterus lumpus) or Whale shark (Rhincodon typus), mostly because they are both very cute.” That appreciation for marine life carries through to his work and his outlook on nature. He admits to preferring marine ecosystems “slightly more than freshwater because it is bigger and feels more primordial.”
Either / Or: Quickfire Round
Freshwater or marine? Marine — it’s vast and ancient.
Fieldwork or labwork? Both! Especially when part of the same project — he loves seeing the full process from start to finish.
Coffee or tea? Tea — preferably herbal, since caffeine hardly affects him at all.
Summer or winter? Winter person at heart, though he appreciates the seasonal change.
Big international or small national conferences? Small national ones — a great chance to hear about friends’ projects and exchange ideas.
The Joys (and Challenges) of Research Life
For Kolbeinn, one of the best parts of being a scientist is the community:
“People driven by curiosity and exploration, and the willingness to work together and learn.”
He’s only recently begun his master’s degree, but already feels “more fully immersed into the scientific community and lifestyle — more than it just feeling like school.” That sense of belonging and shared curiosity is what keeps him motivated.
Of course, there are challenges too….“Just not finding the time to do everything that I would want, but that’s usually what I say about anything I’m interested in.”
Advice for Future Scientists
Kolbeinn’s advice to aspiring scientists is simple and heartfelt:
“Be curious and follow your passions. I, for instance, watch a lot of biology documentaries and YouTube videos in my downtime — that helps.”
He also encourages students to step outside their comfort zones: “Try to take the extra step of talking to other people and be social. Your fellow students are somehow both incredibly interesting and very interested in what you have to say, which is great.”
Beyond the Lab
When he’s not thinking about cod, Kolbeinn channels his curiosity into creativity. He loves writing, music, drawing, and cooking, and finds that his passion for biology actually fuels those creative outlets — and vice versa.