Scientist at Sea

The proposed project revolves around a new applied research course program entitled “Scientist at Sea” (S-A-S), to be offered at Eckerd College, including a research cruise experience, peer mentorship and professional productivity opportunities, that encompass practical applied skills for planning, execution, and professional products associated with research. These courses build upon and utilize on-going interdisciplinary research in geosciences that also include biology and chemistry elements. The S-A-S course program consists of a Spring into Summer course that includes the on-campus “pre-expedition” course (Spring) and “at Sea” research cruise (Summer) that is followed by the on-campus “post-expedition” course in the Fall. 

What? NSF funded program to increase the number and diversity of students entering the geosciences by increasing awareness, accessibility and enhancing pathways into the geosciences. 

Why? NSF identified a future shortage of people in geoscience to address increasing environmental issues.

How? Integrate ongoing research (Deepwater Horizon oil spill) with new and unique undergraduate course entitled “Scientist at Sea” (S-A-S).

Who?  Eckerd students (open to all majors) who are interested in gaining applied hands on training in research and exploring opportunities in the geosciences.  

Cost? None. All components are funded by NSF grant.

Course Credit: This course will be 1 course credit that will be applied in the Fall semester (no credit in spring semester).  The class will meet 1 day per week in spring and fall semester, with some potential activities outside of the class day/time.

This course will be an upper level elective for Marine Science Geology, Geophysics, and Chemistry tracks as well as Geosciences.  It will also be as be an N-Area course.

An Information and Question/Answer session will be scheduled in fall 2022 before applications are due.