RAPID: Training Chief Scientists for the Ocean Research of Tomorrow

Oregon State University, Corvallis OR

Investigators

Abstract

In response to a recent decline in requests for UNOLS facilities, two separate Chief Scientist Training Cruises are proposed on an Intermediate General Purpose Research Vessel to serve as forums for teaching early career marine scientists how to effectively plan for, acquire, utilize and report on time at sea for multi-disciplinary research and educational activities. The intellectual merit of this program will develop from opportunities given to new investigators to test compelling research ideas, work collaboratively, use equipment, and acquire samples critical for developing future oceanographic field programs. The broader impacts are that as many as 28 new investigators will be trained in the mechanics of leading expeditionary ocean research while coming to understand how oceanographic research infrastructure is scheduled, maintained and upgraded. They will also be exposed to standard sets of observations appropriate to a variety of oceanographic disciplines (e.g., physical, chemical, biological and geological oceanography) inspiring new ideas for research and the transfer of science information to the public.