S-A-S  

Welcome to the page about your future marine geologist/chemist/biologist and the research we are currently working on! We have been given the opportunity to work on a current environmental issue as undergraduates. 

Over the past few decades, there have been an increasing number of issues related to geosciences including but not limited to climate, natural hazards, energy resources, and contaminant input to marine systems. Simultaneously, there has been a significant decrease in geoscience training at the undergraduate level and little diversity. Consequently, there are few well-defined pathways for students to enter the geosciences at critical junctures.

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. 

Creating a Research Team for Integrated Science

Students are the "Research Team" working together and in groups to achieve the research objectives and scientific goals.

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.

The SAS Research Project Includes:

1. Integrated Science in the Gulf of Mexico (GoM): Sediments, Water Column, and the Benthic Ecosystem.  

2. High-resolution studies of the GoM benthos and impacts of the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill.

Research Team - Task groups focusing on specific aspects of the Research Project.

1) Sedimentology

2) Seafloor Communities 

3) Radiochemistry

4) Trace Elements

5) Communications/Outreach

6) Fisheries 

7) Water Column