phd in marine science

Ph.D. in Marine Science and Conservation

General info.

• Faculty working with students: 25 (15 in Beaufort and 9 in Durham)
• Students: 38
• Students receiving Financial Aid: 100%
• Application terms: Fall
• Application deadline: December 7

James Hench Director of Graduate Studies Duke Marine Laboratory 135 Duke Marine Lab Road Beaufort, NC 28516-9721

Phone: (252) 504-7585

Email: [email protected]

• https://nicholas.duke.edu/academics/doctoral-degrees
• https://nicholas.duke.edu/marinelab

Program Description

The PhD in MSC  is designed to ensure that students receive detailed training in a particular discipline of marine natural or social science, while being exposed to sufficient interdisciplinary knowledge that they are able to synthesize information from both the social and natural sciences and apply that information to policy-making.  These students will be prepared for careers either in university teaching or research, or outside of the university involving the application of science to policy-making. 

Doctoral students in MSC emphasize research as the major part of their degree programs.  The committee, chaired by the student’s faculty advisor, will recommend which of the program’s required courses students should take along with any additional courses, and generally help to shape the student’s research program.

The bulk of a student's time will be spent at the Duke Marine Lab in Beaufort, NC. Students often spend one or two semesters taking graduate level classes on the Durham campus before moving to Beaufort to complete their research; however, residence in Durham is not a requirement.

In addition to MSC and other course work, MSC students are required to present short research update seminars in years 2-4 of their program, complete a preliminary examination, and complete a dissertation. The dissertation is presented in a public seminar and defended to the committee in a dissertation examination.

• Marine Science and Conservation: PhD Admission and Enrollment Statistics
• Marine Science and Conservation: PhD Completion Rate Statistics
• Marine Science and Conservation: PhD Time to Degree Statistics
• Marine Science and Conservation: PhD Career Outcomes Statistics

Application Information

Application Terms Available:  Fall

Application Deadline:  December 7

Graduate School Application Requirements See the Application Instructions page for important details about each Graduate School requirement.

• Transcripts: Unofficial transcripts required with application submission; official transcripts required upon admission
• Letters of Recommendation: 3 Required
• Statement of Purpose: Required
• Résumé: Required
• GRE Scores: GRE General (Optional)
• English Language Exam: TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test required* for applicants whose first language is not English *test waiver may apply for some applicants
• GPA: Undergraduate GPA calculated on 4.0 scale required

Writing Sample None required

We strongly encourage you to review additional department-specific application guidance from the program to which you are applying: Departmental Application Guidance

List of Graduate School Programs and Degrees

Ph. D. in Marine Sciences

Find out how to Apply

Cliff Buck Graduate Coordinator [email protected]

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Marine Science and Technology PhD

The School for Marine Sciences & Technology’s (SMAST) PhD in Marine Science and Technology program emphasizes societal need-driven research and learning in an interdisciplinary environment. The PhD program focuses on observations, modeling, experimentation, and theory in the areas of ocean sciences, ocean technology, and marine policy.

Students work independently as well as collaboratively with our faculty as well as colleagues from other most highly regarded institutions to pursue a range of leading-edge research projects. Topical areas include, but are not limited to the following:

• Biochemical cycling
• Coastal Ecosystem Dynamics and Restoration
• Computational Modeling
• Fisheries Science
• Marine Renewable Energy
• Ocean Physics

View the complete list of faculty and their areas of expertise.

• Program requires four core courses (12 credits) and an additional 24 credit hours of courses (which includes both elective and seminar courses), which help prepare the student for the written and oral candidacy examinations
• Upon completing the comprehensive exams, students are required to take a minimum of 18 credit hours toward their dissertation research
• PhD students may be accepted as part-time students
• Courses may be selected from those offered by UMass Dartmouth,  other UMass campuses, and other academic institutions subject to approval by the SMAST Dean

At a glance

Smast student achievements.

• Fulbright Fellowships
• Knauss Marine Policy Fellowships
• NOAA Sea Grant Fellowship in Population Dynamics
• Nancy Sayles Day Foundation Research Award

Awards for presentations at various organizations

• International Council for the Exploration of the Sea
• American Meteorological Society
• National Shellfisheries Association
• International Pectinid Workshop
• American Institute of Fishery Research Biologists
• American Fisheries Society

The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth has several financial programs to assist graduate students with the cost of advanced studies. These programs apply to degree-seeking, matriculated students only.

Applicants should take an active role in contacting faculty member(s) who could potentially advise them, as well as make an effort to seek funding before applying.

Student placement

SMAST alums succeed at becoming involved in research, teaching, and project management in academia, private industry, and governmental agencies.

Student success

Tammy Silva, PhD '17 is a marine researcher and ecologist with NOAA Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary.  In this video, she describes her career studying whales. 

UMassD advantages

• University of São Paulo Dual PhD

Assistantship opportunities

A limited number of assistantships are available on a competitive basis. This award is subject to the work needs of the position and department, your satisfactory performance of duties, your academic record, and availability of funds, and may be subject to change.

Learn more about assistantships at UMass Dartmouth

Optional Practical Training Extension for STEM Students (STEM OPT)

International (F-1) students who receive science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) degrees may be eligible to apply for a 24-month extension of their post-completion optional practical training (OPT). To learn about the eligibility criteria and detailed steps to apply, please review the International Student & Scholar Center (ISSC) OPT page and USCIS resources . F-1 students must consult with the ISSC to apply for STEM OPT.

University requirements for graduate admissions

• Submit an application via the online portal. Be sure to provide your full legal name and to capitalize the first letter of all proper nouns.
• Pay non-refundable $60 application fee (American Express, Discover, MasterCard or Visa) via the online portal. For Nursing applicants, the non-refundable application fee is $75.
• Statement of Purpose, minimum 300 words. Unless otherwise indicated in the program requirement details, indicate your graduate study objectives, research interests and experience, and business or industry experience if applicable. If you are applying for a teaching or research assistantship, include any special skills or experience that would assist us in making assistantship decisions.
• Transcripts for all post-secondary institutions attended (regardless of whether a credential is earned or not). Unofficial transcripts are accepted for admissions application review, once enrolled a final official transcript is required. International students applying with an transcript evaluation, please submit that document with your unofficial transcripts. International applicants for Data Science must submit semester-by-semester transcripts as well as consolidated transcripts. 
• Many programs have specific recommendations/requirements, please see the additional program-specific requirements for more information.
• International students : official TOEFL iBT, IELTS, Pearson PTE or Duolingo (if accepted by program) score. Unofficial scores are accepted for admissions application review, once enrolled official scores are required and must be sent by the testing agency (copies/scans not accepted). This is required of any applicant who did not earn a bachelor’s degree or higher degree from an accredited academic institution in the U.S. or accepted English-speaking country, see exemptions for more details . We require an overall/total minimum score of 72 on the TOEFL iBT or BAND 6.0 on the IELTS or a 52 on the Pearsons PTE Academic for entrance to any program and a minimum score of 79 on the TOEFL iBT or BAND 6.5 on the IELTS for consideration for a teaching assistantship. Some programs require higher minimum scores (see program-specific requirements). Most programs also accept the Duolingo with a minimum score of 95. The following programs do not accept the Duolingo: Art Education, Biology/Marine Biology, Marine Science and Technology (MS, PSM, PhD), Nursing (MS, DNP, PhD), Psychology: Clinical, and Public Policy. 
• All official documents are required for enrollment, please have documents (ie. test scores) sent prior to the expiration. 

Program-specific requirements

Candidates must submit the required application materials, university requirements and program-specific requirements, for consideration.

• Completion of an undergraduate or graduate degree with a GPA of 3.00 or higher.
• Completion of an undergraduate major in one of the basic scientific disciplines or engineering, or strong multidisciplinary training.
• Completion of at least six semesters of coursework in the natural sciences, generally to include biology, chemistry, and/or physics.
• Preparation in mathematics at least through integral calculus is strongly encouraged.

Requirements

• GRE is optional.
• 3 letters of recommendation. Applicants will be required to provide the recommenders name and email address so we can contact the recommender for the letter of recommendation.

Program deadlines

Marine Science and Technology faculty

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Course descriptions, schedules and requirements

Related information, related academic programs.

• PhD Requirements

Application Deadlines

Fall: June 1 Spring: October 1 Summer: Not applicable

Program Co-Directors

Mark Altabet Professor Estuarine & Ocean Sciences Pingguo He Professor Fisheries Oceanography

smast.gpd@umassd.edu

Academic Catalog 2023-2024

Marine and environmental sciences, phd.

The PhD in Marine and Environmental Sciences (MES) program provides students with advanced course work and training in the concentration areas of marine sciences, geosciences, sustainability sciences, and ecology and evolutionary biology. 

Students must pass three examinations during the course of their graduate studies:

• An oral examination by the student’s dissertation committee.
• A proposal defense presented to the student's dissertation committee that explains the research areas that the student proposes to work in.
• A defense of the student's written dissertation consisting of a public seminar, public question-and-answer period, and private defense of their work to their dissertation committee. Dissertation committees consist of at least four Northeastern faculty and one external faculty member.

A cumulative GPA of 3.000 is required for graduation. All PhD students are required to have at least two first-authored publications submitted to or accepted in a peer-reviewed journal prior to their defense. The PhD will be awarded following submission of a dissertation, approved by the candidate’s dissertation committee, to the College of Science.

Students who ​do not qualify for the doctoral degree, but who have completed ​required coursework with a cumulative GPA of 3.000 or better, may be eligible to receive ​a terminal  MS Marine and Environmental Sciences  degree. Note that no students will be admitted directly into the Marine and Environmental Sciences program to pursue a masterʼs degree.

Bachelor's Degree Entrance

Complete all courses and requirements listed below unless otherwise indicated.

Annual review Dissertation committee Qualifying examination Dissertation proposal Candidacy First-author publication Dissertation defense

Core Requirements

Concentration.

Complete one of the following concentrations:

Ecology and Evolutionary Biology

Sustainability sciences, geosciences, marine sciences, dissertation, program credit/gpa requirements.

30 total semester hours required Minimum 3.000 GPA required

10 total semester hours required Minimum 3.000 GPA required

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The PhD program in Marine and Environmental Sciences will train independent scientists whose research addresses fundamental and applied questions at the local, regional, national, and global scale.

Northeastern’s PhD program in Marine and Environmental Sciences trains high-caliber and independent scientists whose research addresses fundamental and applied marine and environmental science questions at local, regional, national, and global scales.  Our students will apply their research to address issues of relevance to society and the environment. In addition to training students to conduct world class research, we aim to prepare them to effectively communicate their findings broadly. We foster opportunities to develop teaching skills and communicate knowledge through outreach programs locally and internationally, so that students hone these essential skills.

To align their studies with their academic and career goals, students select one of the following 4 concentrations: Marine Sciences, Geosciences, Sustainability Sciences, and Ecology & Evolutionary Biology. While research interest may be focused, the academic experience is enriched by providing access to faculty with a wide range of expertise such as coastal sustainability, geology, marine biology, biogeochemistry, global change biology, marine robotics, fisheries science and policy, coral reef ecology, and social and ecological coupling.

• Bachelor’s and Advanced-degree entry are possible
• Students prepare and defend a written dissertation
• Faculty’s research areas are numerous
• State-of-the-art lab facilities located in Nahant, MA, a peninsula surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean
• Significant inter-lab collaboration encouraged and supported by the university
• Opportunities to TA for courses in Panamá and Washington state through the Three Seas Program

Our graduates pursue careers within academia and beyond.

• Tufts University
• Emory University
• University of Rhode Island
• Rutgers University
• Michigan State University
• New England Biolabs
• Knauss Fellowship Program

Application Materials

Application.

• Application fee – US $100
• Unofficial transcripts for all institutions attended (Official transcripts required upon acceptance of admission offer)
• Personal statement
• Three letters of recommendation
• GRE General – recommended, but not required
• Proof of English Proficiency for all applicants

Priority deadline for completed applications: December 1 st

Rolling admissions until March 15.  Check with department to see if there is availability.

• Program Website

Request Information for PhD in Marine and Environmental Sciences

Doctoral Programs

Interested in applying to our MS or PhD programs? View presentations from this year's info sessions .

The Scripps Institution of Oceanography PhD program is organized into three separate academic programs. Each is responsible for all graduate educational activities in its area, including teaching, advising, and examining. Prospective PhD students will apply directly to one or more.

Academic programs

• Climate-Ocean-Atmosphere Program
• Geosciences of the Earth, Oceans, and Planets
• Ocean Biosciences Program

A graduate student's work normally will be concentrated in one of several curricular groups under one of the academic programs:

Climate-Ocean-Atmosphere Curricular Groups

• Applied Ocean Science
• Climate Sciences
• Physical Oceanography

Geosciences of the Earth, Oceans, and Planets Curricular Groups

• Geosciences
• Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry

Ocean Biosciences Curricular Groups

• Biological Oceanography
• Marine Biology

The interdisciplinary nature of research in marine and earth sciences is emphasized; students are encouraged to take courses from various UC San Diego departments and to consider interdisciplinary research projects.

Additional programs

The Program for Interdisciplinary Environmental Research (PIER) is a graduate specialization for select doctoral students who seek solutions to today's environmental challenges.

This PhD Specialization is designed to allow students to obtain standard training in their chosen field and an opportunity to interact with peers in different disciplines throughout the duration of their PhD training. Admission to PIER is a competitive process with 6 - 8 students granted admission each year from the ten participating UC San Diego departments.  More information can be found on the PIER Program website .

A joint graduate group from the Geophysics Program of Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California San Diego (UC San Diego) and the Department of Geological Sciences at San Diego State University (SDSU) offers a Joint Doctoral Program in Geophysics.

The complementary specialties and ongoing, vigorous collaborations between the two groups result in two focus areas: earthquake science and applied geophysics. Integrating geophysics at UC San Diego and SDSU provides outstanding opportunities for students to develop the skills needed to address important local, regional, and global societal problems where geophysics can contribute to the solutions.

Strong capabilities will be in:

More information can be found on the Joint Doctoral Program website .

Graduates will be prepared to begin rewarding geophysics careers and assume leadership roles as university faculty, government scientists, and industry researchers. Joint UCSD and SDSU committees will administer and monitor the admission, advising, evaluation, graduation, and all other academic processes related to the joint doctoral program. Students will spend at least one academic year of residency at each campus.

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Geophysics will be awarded upon completion of the program in the names of The Regents of the University of California on behalf of UC San Diego and The Trustees of the California State University on behalf of SDSU. Prospective applicants will apply through SDSU.

The Department of Scripps Institution of Oceanography offers a concurrent degree program allowing interested PhD students to complete an MBA at the Rady School of Management .

Students who are admitted to Scripps may, with the consent of their academic advisor, apply to Rady.  Application to the MBA program is through the usual admissions process.  Students may begin the MBA program no earlier than after the completion of their departmental exam and no later than the fall quarter following their advancement to candidacy.

An extensive independent study, jointly supervised by Scripps and Rady faculty, enables the student to develop linkages between Scripps and Rady studies. Interested students are encouraged to consult early with Rady MBA Admissions and with their Scripps academic advisors.

School of the Earth, Ocean and Environment

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• Marine Sciences

Ph.D. in Marine Sciences

The Doctor of Philosophy degree program is offered by a diverse group of   faculty   whose research interests span a wide range of topics. The degree prepares students for professional careers and leadership positions in industry, government and academia. Ph.D. students are expected to conduct independent, original scientific research and to have an understanding of the fundamental principles and practices related to primary areas of the marine sciences. Training involves developing the ability to use appropriate laboratory and field equipment, and expanding one’s understanding of scientific methodology, quantitative problem-solving skills and experimental or numerical techniques.  The School of the Earth, Ocean & Environment (SEOE) expects all graduates to possess effective oral and written communication skills.

The Ph.D. program of study and other specific degree requirements are planned in consultation with the graduate student, the graduate student’s advisory committee, the Marine Science Graduate Studies Committee, and the Marine Science Program Director.

The Ph.D. degree requires the satisfactory completion of a minimum of 60 credit hours (including only 12 hours of 899, Dissertation Preparation) beyond the baccalaureate, or a minimum of 30 credit hours (including only 12 hours of 899) beyond the master’s degree. The core courses (12 hours) are required unless exempted. Students must complete at least half of their credit hours, exclusive of 12 hours of 899, in courses numbered 700 and higher.

Core Courses

• MSCI 745 - Geological Oceanography
• MSCI 750 - Advanced Biological Oceanography
• MSCI 781 - Physical Oceanography
• MSCI 782 - Chemical Oceanography

The Ph.D. degree requires a research plan presentation, a comprehensive exam, a peer-reviewed publication, a written dissertation, and a dissertation defense.

Additional information is included in the   Graduate Bulletin   and the   Marine Science Graduate Student Handbook [pdf] .

HOW TO APPLY

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UMass Boston

• Marine Science & Technology PhD

Become an expert able to analyze environmental questions across multiple natural and social science perspectives.

Our PhD program centers around issues of biological oceanography, marine ecosystems, climate change impacts on the oceans, and marine policy and management.

The oceans are part of the thin, outer shell of the Earth and marine science is the study of this envelope, from the deep sea to shallow coastal oceans. These systems are dynamic and vast, containing most of the Earth's water and carbon and surface heat, and much of its biomass. Working like a machine in concert with the atmosphere, continents and ice oceans drive our climate system and support all life on our planet.

Learning Outcomes

• Students will be able to apply the scientific method and design appropriate experiments to answer environmental science questions.
• Students will understand the contributions of laboratory, field, and survey data collection and analysis for approaching environmental science problems.
• Students will be able to analyze and critique environmental questions across multiple natural and social science perspectives and research approaches.
• Students will demonstrate analytical and quantitative proficiencies to analyze environmental and/or social science data.
• Students will understand the system interactions and feedback between human activities and social institutions and the natural environment.
• Students will be experienced in communicating their learnings both in writing, visually, and orally, and for specific and general audiences.

Start Your Application

Plan Your Education

How to apply.

Applicants must meet   general graduate admission requirements  in addition to the following program-specific requirements:

Test Scores:  GRE Letters of Recommendation:  3 Other:  Faculty advisor commitment

Deadlines & Cost

Deadlines: January 15 for fall, October 1 for spring

Application Fee: The nonrefundable application fee is $75. UMass Boston alumni and current students that plan to complete degree requirements prior to graduate enrollment can submit the application without paying the application fee.

Program Cost Information: Bursar's website

Course Requirements

Marine science core (9 to 10 credits).

Complete three from below.

• ENVSCI 630 - Biological Oceanography 3 Credit(s)
• ENVSCI 640 - The Chemistry of Natural Waters 3 Credit(s) or
• ENVSCI 641 - The Geochemistry of a Habitable Planet 3 Credit(s)
• and ENVSCI 642 - Laboratory for the Geochemistry of a Habitable Planet 1 Credit(s)
• ENVSCI 650 - Physical Oceanography 3 Credit(s)

Marine Policy Core (3 Credits)

Complete one from below.

• ENVSCI 670L - Environmental and Energy Economics 3 Credit(s)
• ENVSCI 674L - Climate and Energy: Law, Policy and Management 3 Credit(s)
• ENVSCI 675L - Economics of Renewables: Marine and Energy Resources 3 Credit(s)
• ENVSCI 726L - Coastal Zone Policy, Planning, and Management 3 Credit(s)

School for the Environment Seminar (2 Credits)

All PhD students must attend seminar each week throughout their enrollment in the program but will receive no more than 2 credits for seminar.

• ENVSCI 791 - Seminar in Environmental Sciences 1 Credit(s)

Graduation Criteria

Program requirements.

Complete 54 credits from at least 14 courses including three   marine   science   core courses, one   marine   policy core course, two School for the Environment seminars, 21 to 22 credits of concentration electives, and 18 credits of dissertation research.

Concentration:   Students must select a concentration in coastal systems   science , integrated coastal management, living   marine   resources   science   and management,   marine   and atmospheric system modeling and analysis,   marine   biogeochemistry and environmental change,   marine   observation technologies, or oceans and human health. Doctoral candidacy:   Successful completion of a comprehensive written and oral qualifying examination by the end of the sixth semester. If the presentation and successful defense of the dissertation do not take place within five years of admission to candidacy, the candidate must repeat the comprehensive examination. Dissertation:   Compose and defend a dissertation based on original empirical research.

Students may apply to receive a MS in  Marine   Science  and Technology upon completion of all core courses requirements and the written and oral examinations.

Minimum grade:   No courses with grade below B can be applied to the program. Students who earn B- in two courses will be considered no longer in good standing and may be dismissed from the program. Students who receive a grade below C in any graduate course will be dismissed from the program. Grading basis:   Courses must be taken graded unless the course is only offered on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis. GPA:   A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required from all courses applied toward the program. Residency:  Excluding intercampus   marine   science   courses taken at UMass campuses, graduate course credits earned at another institution, as a non-degree student, or in another department may only be applied to the program with approval from the dissertation committee and graduate program director. Course level:  No more than one course taken at UMass Boston at the 300/400-level may be applied toward the program with approval of the thesis/project advisor and graduate program director. Statute of limitations:   Eight years.

Graduate Program DirectorJuanita Urban-Rich Juanita.Urban-Rich [at] umb.edu (617) 287-7485

School for the Environment

Interested in learning more about the faculty, research, and range of programs that make the School for the Environment so popular?

Marine Biology Graduate Program

Creating future leaders in marine science, phd students.

This page and the academic progress flow chart may not apply to all MBIO students. Current students are asked to refere to co-hort relevant resources on the MBIO intranet.

Academic Progress Flow Chart

- Interim Committee Meeting - MBIO 603*

- Annual Progress Report due Sept. 1 - Finalize 5-member PhD Committee and submit roster to MBGP - Write Proposal

- Hold Committee Meeting and submit report to MBGP - Continue to write/revise proposal

- Submit Annual Progress Report by Sept. 1 - By end of this semester, set date for your Comprehensive Exam (must be taken before end of 6th semester, i.e., spring) - Committee Meeting: Usually to discuss dissertation proposal - Make a public presentation sometime this academic year

- Take and Pass Comp Exam - Proposal Approved by Committee - File Form 2 - Advance to Candidacy

- Submit Annual Progress Report by Sept. 1 to MBGP and committee - Enroll in MBIO 800 - Hold Committee Meeting and report results to MBGP - Write Dissertation - Make a public presentation of your research this academic year

- Enroll in MBIO 800 - File an Application for Degree with Graduate Division - Submit Annual Progress Report by Sept. 1 to MBGP and committee - Make a public presentation sometime this academic year - Committee Meeting - Set the date of your defense in collaboration with committee and MBGP (must be announced on the University calendar) - Defend your dissertation through public presentation announced to all MBGP faculty and students - File Form 3 - Dissertation Evaluation - Finalize Dissertation - File Form 4 - Dissertation Submission - Upload dissertation - Submit Survey of Earned Doctorates (SED) certificate - Complete MBGPʻs Exit Survey (and optional exit interview) - Graduate!

Program Requirements

These are required of all PhD students who are admitted into the Program.

• Complete Form 1 (Pre-Candidacy Progress) By the end of the first week of classes, students should meet with their interim committee and discuss the student's preparation and path forward. (Fall 2021 cohort members: The Program completed Form 1 on your behalf)
• * MBIO 603 and MBIO 604 All students entering the program are required to enroll in and successfully complete the MBIO 603 and 604 courses in their first year of study. (Fall 2021 cohort members took a combined 603-604 as part of the August course; they do not need to take 603 and 604 separately)
• Other required courses: Students who enter the PhD program without a completed life-science masters will have to take certain Content courses and a Statistics course.
• Teaching Experience: Teaching experience is required of all PhD students and usually takes the form of a TAship of at least one semester.
• Exit Interview: All students are required to submit a written exit survey with the option to meet with the Directors. Request the link to the survey from the Program Coordinator during their semester of graduation.

Important Deadlines

PhD students should adhere to these dates & deadlines to ensure successful progress.

• Form Dissertation Committee The 5-member roster must be repoerted to MBGP by the end of the 3rd semester. At least 3 members must be MBGP graduate faculty (2 must be Regular/Cooperating MBGP graduate faculty, and the third may be Regular, Cooperating, or Affiliate Graduate Faculty).
• Oral Comprehensive Exam: Your exam must be SCHEDULED by the end of the 5th semester and shared with the Program Coordinator. The exam must be taken and passed by the end of the 6th semester.
• Form 2 - Advance to Candidacy Upon passing your exam and having your dissertation topic approved, submit a completed and signed Form 2 - Advance to Candidacy. This is required to register for MBIO 800 and advance to candidacy.
• Register for MBIO 800 All PhD students MUST register for at least one credit of Dissertation 800 during the final semester of their graduate study.
• Form 3 - Dissertation Evaluation Students must successfully defend their dissertation in an oral defense open to the public and announced to all MBGP faculty and students, and have this online form approved by their committee, the co-Directors, and Graduate Division.
• Submit the SED Certificate of Completion Complete the form online when you have submitted your dissertation.
• Form 4 - Dissertation Submission A final, approved version of your dissertation must be uploaded to ETD Proquest and this online form completed

Annual Requirements

All students must meet the following requirements each year.

• Annual Progress Report Progress reports are due every year by September 1. Email your report and CV to your committee.
• Committee Meeting and Report Students must meet with their committee at least once every year. Submit a signed summary report of your meeting to the program coordinator as soon as possible after each meeting (but no later than May 15).
• Graduate Seminar: Starting with the Fall 2020 cohort, at least one seminar must be taken every academic year.
• Continuous Enrollment: Students must be continuously enrolled in at least 1 credit per semester (excluding summer). International students must be enrolled full-time in order to maintain visa status. GAs require at least 6 credits during each semester that the award is effective. Some financial aid awards require a minimum of 8 credits per semester of award.
• Research Presentation: After the 4th semester, all students are required to make an annual public presentation on their thesis or dissertation research.

Additional Links

MBGP Resources

• MBGP Student Handbook 17-19 Student Handbook for student cohorts entering in Fall 2017-Fall 2019.
• MBGP Student Handbook 20-22 Student Handbook for student cohorts entering in Fall 2020 and after
• MBGP Catalog

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More Resources

• College of Natural Sciences (CNS)
• School of Life Sciences (SoLS)
• School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST)
• Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology (HIMB)
• University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa

Concentrations:

Biological Oceanography

Chemical Oceanography

Geological Oceanography

Hydrography

Marine Resource Assessment

Physical Oceanography

The College of Marine Science offers M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Marine Science. This research based major has a low student‐to‐faculty ratio, with an average of 90 graduate students under the direction of ~ 25 full‐time faculty. Students in the Master’s major may elect a concentration or complete the cross disciplinary or interdisciplinary option  CMS graduates are well prepared for positions in academia, industry, government agencies, and non‐governmental organizations at local to international levels.

Biological oceanography seeks to understand the life histories and population dynamics of marine organisms and how they interact with their environment over space and time. Scientists in the College of Marine Science study the full breadth of biological oceanography including microbiology, phytoplankton, zooplankton, benthos, coral reefs, fishes, and marine mammals. Our biological oceanographers utilize a variety of techniques including SCUBA, shipboard samplers, acoustics, molecular biology, and mathematical modeling to understand the oceans and their inhabitants. Scientists in our college also use the latest in remote sensing technology to study vast regions of the Earth’s oceans, and have also developed new technology, such as genosensor capable for identifying and quantifying harmful algal blooms and related processes on unprecedented scales.

Chemical oceanographers seek to understand the ways in which various elements are cycled within the oceans, and the reactions that influence biogeochemical cycles. Ocean chemists improve our understanding of the basic conditions under which ocean life thrives in seawater, and help predict the effects of anthropogenic and natural climate change on ocean composition. Research programs in the College of Marine Science include such wide ranging topics as the role and variability of nutrients in seawater, the distribution and cycling of both biologically-essential and toxic metals, the oceans’ CO2 system, dissolved organic matter, molecular organic compounds, radionuclides and stable isotopes and the distribution of chemical pollutants and their interactions with marine organisms and ecosystems. Faculty and students utilize a wide variety of state‐of‐the art instrumentation and technology for conducting this research. .

Crossdisciplinary Option

The Crossdisciplinary option is based upon recognition of the potential for engaging in marine research in collaboration with and with application to disciplines outside the College of Marine Science. Possibilities include (but are not limited to) Public Health, Engineering (e.g., Chemical, Environmental, Mechanical), STEM Education, Global Sustainability, Environmental Policy, and Business (e.g., Marketing). The thesis or dissertation committee for a student in the Crossdisciplinary option should include a faculty member from the appropriate unit outside CMS. 

Geological oceanographers in the College of Marine Science conduct research from the continental margins to the deep-ocean seafloor. Their work extends from modern environments to millions of years present to understand and predict Earth surface and interior processes. Primary research themes include: paleoceanography, paleoclimatology, coastline and continental shelf development processes related to storms and sea-level fluctuations, anthropogenic influences on estuaries, marine geophysics, and plate tectonics. The geological oceanography group has a variety of modern well-equipped laboratories and field equipment, including modern seafloor mapping capabilities. Fully integrated with these field instruments is the computational capability to generate state-of-the art data depictions and imagery.  The group also works closely with scientists from the US Geological Survey’s Center for Coastal and Marine Science Center and the USF-NOAA Center for Ocean Mapping and Innovative Technologies, both located proximal to the USF St. Petersburg Campus.

Hydrographers in the College of Marine Science conduct research related to mapping the seafloor from land to the deep seafloor. They use acoustics, optics, and other remote sensing tools to map the depth and characteristics of the seafloor. These tools and sensors are operated from a large array of crewed and un-crewed platforms. Primary research themes include techniques to map very shallow seafloor efficiently in an effort to monitor the health of benthic communities over large shallow areas.   Other research themes focus on temporal variations in these shallow areas.   Additional work focuses on processing and displaying multiple data types for scientific and public use.  Testing new equipment and innovative techniques provide multiple opportunities for research projects. The students in this concentration benefit from working closely with scientists from the USF-NOAA Center for Ocean Mapping and Innovative Technologies, and several other partners at the USGS and within the defense hub of 16 agencies located proximal to the USF St. Petersburg Campus.

Interdisciplinary Option

The Interdisciplinary option is based upon recognition of the potential for engaging in marine research in a variety of areas within the Marine Science discipline.  Possibilities include coursework taken from a variety of the concentrations.  This option provides students the flexibility to design a course load that is focused on their research objectives, rather than taking extra unnecessary courses to satisfy a single  concentration.  Further, the Interdisciplinary option is for courses within the College, whereas the Crossdisciplinary option is for courses that include other courses outside of the College.

The College of Marine Science offers an interdisciplinary concentration in Marine Resource Assessment as part of its M.S. and Ph.D. majors. This concentration provides training in the emerging field of ecosystem‐based management. Its mission is to train a new generation of scientists that can effectively address issues concerning the sustainability of the world’s living natural resources. The MRA concentration addresses the national shortage of graduates possessing the skills required for managing living marine resources by teaching a quantitative approach to ecosystem analysis and living resource assessment. The concentration is designed to produce resource assessment scientists who can introduce relevant ecosystem‐level variables into the traditional, single‐species assessment process, complementing and enhancing the development of the science‐based management policies that protect living marine resources.

Physical oceanography involves the study of water movement in the ocean. Energy is introduced to the ocean through wind and solar heating, and these combine with the rotation of the Earth and gravitational effects to drive ocean circulation, tides, and waves. Our physical oceanographers also investigate how the Earth’s oceans are directly coupled with the atmosphere, from local weather patterns to the global climate system. Physical oceanographers in the CMS carry out research on a variety of topics using the latest technology. Computer models, real time data, satellite remote sensing, and in situ data from moored arrays, coastal tide gauges, and research cruises are used to study a wide range of research problems. Topics include tide and current prediction in Tampa Bay, circulation on the West Florida Shelf and in the Gulf of Mexico, El Niño phenomena, and the potential for global climate change.  

Admission Information

Must meet University Admission and English Proficiency requirements as well as requirements for admission to the major, listed below.  Complete application instructions can be found on the college website ( https://www.usf.edu/marine-science/education/prospective-students/index.aspx )

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited university (Preferable majors include biology, chemistry, geology, physics or math)
• Have completed all of the pre-requisite coursework listed on our website ( https://www.usf.edu/marine-science/education/prospective-students/index.aspx )
• GRE Optional 
• Have the commitment of a Marine Science faculty member to serve as their Major Professor during the student’s graduate studies.

Required Application Materials

• research interest statement (use template from Marine Science website)
• professional goals statement
• a resume or curriculum vitae
• three letters of recommendation
• GRE exam scores (Optional)

Curriculum Requirements

Post-Bachelor’s:

Total Minimum Hours Required: 90 hours beyond the Bachelor’s 

• Core Requirements - 12 Credit Hours
• Concentration or Crossdisciplinary/Interdisciplinary Option - 14 Credit Hours Minimum
• Electives/Research - 48 hours 
• Dissertation - 16 Credit Hours Minimum

Post-Master’s:

Total Minimum Hours Required: 60 hours beyond the Master’s

• Electives/Research - 18 hours 

A committee, consisting of a major advisor and at least four other members of the graduate faculty, is appointed to supervise and guide the major of the candidate. One member shall be from outside of the College of Marine Science.

Core Requirements (12 Credit Hours)

Core courses completed with a grade of “B” or better

• OCB 6050 Biological Oceanography Credit Hours: 3
• OCC 6050 Chemical Oceanography Credit Hours: 3
• OCG 6051 Geological Oceanography Credit Hours: 3
• OCP 6050 Physical Oceanography Credit Hours: 3

Concentration or Crossdisciplinary/Interdisciplinary Course Options Requirements (14 Credit Hours)

Students select either one of the following concentrations or choose either the Crossdisciplinary or Interdisciplinary course option 

Biological Oceanography (14 Credit Hours)

Complete two of the following (6 Credit Hours):

• OCB 6716 Population Dynamics Credit Hours: 3
• OCB 6068 Fish Biology Credit Hours: 3
• OCB 6626 Dynamics of Marine Ecosystems Credit Hours: 3
• OCE 6934 Selected Topics in Oceanography Credit Hours: 1-3
• Marine Microbiology (3 Credit hours)
• Zooplankton Ecology (3 Credit hours)

Remaining eight (8) credit hours selected with the Major Professor.

Chemical Oceanography (14 Credit Hours)

Complete the following (3 Credit hours):

• OCE 6921 Professional Development I Credit Hours: 2
• OCC 6057L Methods in Chemical Oceanography Credit Hours: 1

And complete two of the following (6 credit hours):

• OCC 6216 Marine Organic Chemistry Credit Hours: 3
• Physical Chemistry of Seawater (3 Credit Hours)
• Stable Isotope Geochemistry (3 Credit Hours)
• Biogeochemistry of the Periodic Table (3 Credit Hours)
• C0 2 System Analytical Technique (3 Credit Hours)
• Sediment Geochemistry (3 Credit Hours)
• Principles Applications ICP-MS (3 Credit Hours)
• Ocean Biogeochemical Dynamics (3 Credit Hours)

Remaining five (5) credit hours selected with the Major Professor.

Geological Oceanography (14 Credit Hours)

• OCG 6664 Paleoceanography Credit Hours: 3
• OCG 6080 Plate Tectonics Credit Hours: 3
• Marine Geophysics (3 Credit Hours)

Remaining eight (8) credit hours selected with Major Professor.

Hydrography (14 Credit Hours)

And complete the following (6 Credit Hours):

• Seafloor Mapping (3 Credit Hours)

Marine Resource Assessment (14 Credit Hours)

Complete three of the following courses (9 Credit hours):

• OCE 6565 Applied Multivariate Statistics Credit Hours: 3

Physical Oceanography (14 Credit Hours)

Complete the following (6 Credit hours):

• OCP 6255 Fluid Dynamics Credit Hours: 3
• OCP 6256 Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Credit Hours: 3

Crossdiscplinary/Interdisciplinary Course Options (14 Credit Hours)

Cross-disciplinary  (14 Credit Hours) Appropriate courses to support the student’s crossdisciplinary focus of research are selected in consultation with the student’s major advisor and outside committee member.  A minimum number of two formal courses (6 credit hours) outside of the College Marine Science  are required. 

Interdisciplinary Course Option (14 Credit Hours) Appropriate courses to support the student’s interdisciplinary research project selected in consultation with the student’s thesis committee.    

Qualifying Exam Requirements

A comprehensive Qualifying Exam consists of a written and oral portion. A student must receive a passing vote on the exam from at least four committee members before admission to Ph.D. candidacy.

Dissertation Requirements (16 Credit Hours)

• A minimum of 16 credits of OCE 7980    (Dissertation credit hours). Following admission to candidacy, the student must enroll in OCE 7980    when engaged in research, data collection, or writing activities relevant to the dissertation. The student is required to accumulate a minimum of 6 credits during each previous 12 month period (previous 3 terms, e.g., Fall, Spring, Summer) until the degree is granted.
• A written dissertation
• A successful dissertation defense examination
• OCE 7980 Dissertation: Doctoral Credit Hours: 2-19 (16 hours required for this program)

Other Requirements

Other coursework as required by dissertation advisory committee

PhD in Marine Science and Technology

The intercampus marine science (IMS) graduate program is fundamentally grounded in a broad, integrated approach to the study of marine sciences and related technologies. Offered at UMass Amherst, Boston, Dartmouth, and Lowell, this degree helps you build a foundation in the natural and social sciences related to marine and coastal systems to prepare you for interdisciplinary studies and research focusing on an area of concentration. Upon graduation, you’ll be ready for a career in academia as a researcher and scholar who will contribute the application of your education to marine sciences, marine resource management, and marine economic development, or in the governmental or private sectors.

Application information & deadlines

December 15, 2023, october 1, 2023, marine science and technology.

Conduct innovative research in preparation for a career in academia, with government and non-governmental agencies, or in the private sector.

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Sea urchin killer spreads to new species, region

CMS researchers use art as dynamic tool for science communication

Hungry herbivores threaten subtropical seagrass meadows

Frank Müller-Karger, Distinguished University Professor, recognized for pioneering scientific research and leadership

USF to tackle environmental challenges through new initiative with Tampa Bay Wave and the St. Petersburg Innovation District

The Florida Flood Hub for Applied Research and Innovation

The Flood Hub is a first in Florida. Established by the state and based at the University of South Florida College of Marine Science, it bridges the gap between scientists, policymakers, practitioners, and the public to help communities mitigate and adapt to flooding risks. The Flood Hub’s goal is to improve flood forecasting and inform science-based policy, planning, and management decisions.

Learn more about the Flood Hub 

BLOGS & PERSPECTIVES

Congratulations to the 2024 Spoonbill Bowl Winners

Friday, April 5, 2024

The Spoonbill Bowl is a regional National Ocean Sciences Bowl hosted by USF CMS.

CMS celebrates 40 years of Graduate Student Symposiums

Tuesday, February 13, 2023

The breadth of topics covered during the 2024 Graduate Student Symposium illustrates the impressive scope of science conducted at the College of Marine Science.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

CMS in the News

Sound at sea, sargassum buries beaches and threatens tourism

Sunday, April 14, 2024

Millions of tons of yellow-brown algae that have been swirling about in a region of the tropical Atlantic known as the Sargasso Sea are now breaking loose and landing on Florida shores.

Portion of state gambling revenues to go toward flood research in St. Pete

Thursday, April 11, 2024

The Florida Flood Hub in St. Pete received funding through the Resilient Florida Program. Its goal is to model and predict how flooding will affect Florida in the future, so informed decisions can be made at the state and local levels on the best ways to mitigate flood risks.

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The Ph.D. in Marine Science degree program is designed to prepare students for advanced marine science-focused careers in academia, government agencies or other employment sectors. Students complete fundamental and advanced marine science coursework and a dissertation based on original research. A student is assigned to the department of the advisor and may have a co-advisor from the same or a different department. The required core curriculum is designed to help students achieve a broad understanding of the essential processes that define oceanic, coastal, and estuarine environments. Advanced courses allow students to explore areas of specialization that align with research and professional interests. There is considerable latitude to design an advanced course of study that ranges from highly disciplinary to highly interdisciplinary.

Ph.D. Program Admission Requirements

Students interested in pursuing marine science as a profession should consult with their academic advisor, or the Office of Academic Studies ([email protected]) at the School of Marine Science, early in their college careers to identify an academic program that will prepare them for graduate study in marine science. Applicant review is holistic. We look for previous coursework, training, and experience that demonstrate preparedness for a science and research-focused curriculum, as well as an applicant’s interest in pursuing a career path that will benefit from advanced training in marine science. All applicants to the Doctoral (Ph.D.) program at the School of Marine Science should have a strong background in basic science, including physics and chemistry (through organic), mathematics through calculus, and contemporary biology courses. The prospective chemical, geological or physical oceanography student should have degrees with appropriate coursework in chemistry, geology or related geophysical science, physics, meteorology, mathematics or engineering, and a solid quantitative background. Coursework in statistics is highly recommended for all students. Applicants for the Ph.D. program will usually have achieved degrees in the sciences or engineering.

Applicants for the Ph.D. program should identify and contact faculty of interest when applying. Students pursuing the Ph.D. typically receive assistantship (stipend and tuition) support through faculty grants and contacts; offers of admission are therefore connected to a faculty member agreeing to serve as an advisor. Review  current faculty research    to identify your areas of interest and contact faculty early in the admissions cycle to determine if space is available.

For matriculation as a Regular degree-seeking graduate student, an applicant must have completed the requirements for a bachelor’s degree (either a B.A. or B.S. are considered) from an accredited college, identify their faculty advisor(s) of interest, be recommended for admission by the SMS Admission Committee and their faculty advisor, and be approved for admission by the Associate Dean of Academic Studies of the School of Marine Science.

A student without an M.S. degree enters the program as a M.A. or M.S. student; however, those wishing to continue directly to the Ph.D. degree may apply to bypass the M.S. degree, provided they meet the criteria for the bypass (see  M.S. Bypass Option   ). Students entering the M.A. program are not eligible for bypassing directly into the Ph.D. track.

In unusual circumstances, an applicant judged deficient in preparatory studies or other areas may be admitted as a Provisional student. A Provisional student may petition for Regular student status after successful completion of those requirements stipulated in their notification of admission. Petition for change in status shall be reviewed by the Academic Status and Degrees Committee (ASDC), using as criteria overall academic performance and performance standards previously specified on the student’s notification of admission. If recommended by ASDC, the petition must be approved by the Associate Dean of Academic Studies. Graduate credit earned by a Provisional student will be applied toward the graduate degree upon successful conversion to Regular student status.

For additional School of Marine Science admission information, important dates, and the on-line application, please visit our website .

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Required Coursework

Sms core curriculum.

Specific objectives of the SMS core course curriculum are to:

• Educate students in the fundamentals of marine science in a way that fosters interdisciplinary and synthetic understanding of oceanic, coastal and estuarine systems;
• Provide students with an appreciation for the integration of marine science and its application to complex environmental problems;
• Ensure that students have the methodological, quantitative, communication and professional skills needed to pursue successful careers in marine science.

Students must pass all required SMS core courses with a grade of B- or better by the end of their second year following matriculation. Students are required to choose courses as follows:

Fundamentals Core Courses: Complete (4) courses from the following menu: MSCI 501A   ,  MSCI 501B   ,  MSCI 501C    (or  MSCI 521   ),  MSCI 501D   ,  MSCI 501E   ,  MSCI 501F    

Note: The fisheries concentration requires students to complete MSCI 501F as one of the three fundamentals courses.

Quantitative Core Courses: Complete at least (1) course from the following menu:  MSCI 504   , MSCI 554   , or  MSCI 556    

Interdisciplinary Core Course:  Complete  MSCI 503    

Department Required Courses

In addition to the SMS core curriculum, Ph.D. students must complete (2) credit hours of seminar (MSCI 515A-C) and department-specific advanced elective course(s), as outlined below.

Aquatic Health Sciences:   MSCI 515B    (every spring) and any (2) MSCI courses ( >  MSCI 550; for a total of 6 or more credit hours)

Biological Sciences:   MSCI 515A    (every fall and spring) and up to (2) department courses ( >  MSCI 550; for a total of 3 or more credit hours)

Fisheries Science:  MSCI 515C    (every spring) and (1) course from the following menu:  MSCI 583   ,  MSCI 667   ,  MSCI 669   ,  MSCI 670   ,  MSCI 671   .  

Physical Sciences:   MSCI 515A    (every fall and spring) and any (1) MSCI course ( >  MSCI 550; with 3 or more credit hours)

Note: Ph.D. students are expected to register for seminar (MSCI 515A-C) as required by their respective departments; however, only (2) credit hours will be applicable to the degree.

Advanced Electives

Complete at least (15) credit hours in courses numbered MSCI 550 or above, which may include advanced courses required by the department.

Dissertation: Complete  MSCI 699    - (9) credit hours minimum or up to (12) credit hours maximum will apply to degree.

Other Requirements

Credit requirements.

At least (42) credit hours of advanced work, of which at least (15) credit hours have been earned in courses numbered MSCI 550 or above with a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or better, are required for the Ph.D. degree. In addition, a student must have registered for dissertation credit ( MSCI 699   ) for at least one semester. At least (9) dissertation credits but no more than (12) credits may be counted toward the minimum (42) credits required for the degree.

Residency and Enrollment Requirements

To fulfill the full-time academic residency requirement a student must successfully complete the core course requirements and be a full-time student in academic standing for two consecutive semesters.

Registration

Full-time degree-seeking students in the Ph.D. program who have not been granted leave must enroll for at least (9) credit hours of approved coursework for both the fall and spring semesters, and (3) credit hours each summer. Students must maintain continuous enrollment during the summer and also be registered in the semester of graduation. Students holding assistantships must register full-time during the summer. Coursework that is not being used to meet Marine Science degree program requirements and overload coursework are not covered by an assistantship award unless you have the permission of the Associate Dean of Academic Studies. Part-time students not supported by an assistantship register for (1) credit hour during the summer.

Research Graduate Status | Registration Requirements

Upon the recommendation of the major professor and approval by the Associate Dean of Academic Studies, a full-time graduate student in the Ph.D. program who is engaged primarily in dissertation research and has achieved candidacy may apply for Research Graduate Status. For doctoral students, Research Graduate Status will commence in the first full semester (e.g., Fall or Spring semester) following admission to candidacy and will continue through a student’s normative graduation date (i.e., graduation milestone) as determined by the faculty of the School of Marine Science. 

Awarding of Research Graduate Status is contingent on the availability of funds. In addition, the following conditions must be met:

• The student has completed all SMS and departmental required coursework other than dissertation.
• The student has passed the qualifying examination and the prospectus has been approved.
• The student has passed the Comprehensive Examination.
• The student is not employed significantly in any activity other than research and writing in fulfillment of degree requirements.
• The student is present on campus or is engaged in approved fieldwork related to his/her dissertation.

While classified as Research Graduate Status, a student should register during the fall or spring semester for (9) credit hours of dissertation for which there will be (3) billable credit hours at the part-time rate. The student may elect to utilize up to (2) of the (3) paid credit hours for formal coursework and may register for additional coursework only upon payment of the generally applicable additional part-time tuition. During the summer term, a student should register full-time for (3) credit hours, for which there will be (1) billable credit hour at the part-time rate.

A student with Research Graduate status is not eligible for services (e.g., student health and athletic events) unless required fees are paid.

Part-Time Student Status | Registration Requirements

Students in the Ph.D. program who have achieved candidacy, and completed course work and on-campus research, are allowed to finish the degree program in a special part-time registration status. These off-site degree-seeking students are not eligible for VIMS assistantships, fellowships, or workship funding and are not making use of on-site resources of VIMS or the W&M campus in Williamsburg.  Depending on domicile, a part-time student pays for (1) credit hour at the out-of-state rate or (3) credit hours at the in-state rate during fall and spring semesters. During the summer, part-time students are required to register for (1) credit hour in order to maintain continuous enrollment.

Milestones for the Ph.D. Program

In addition to completing degree requirements, School of Marine Science Ph.D. students are expected to adhere to the following timeline for completion of milestones in the degree program.

Major Professor - The student selects a School of Marine Science faculty member as a major professor. The major professor, co-advisor (when applicable), and advisory committee direct the student’s program. When appropriate, the student may select a co-advisor who is a VIMS faculty member or a VIMS Research Scientist. Research Scientists must hold a Ph.D. and be approved as a co-advisor by the Academic Council and the Associate Dean of Academic Studies. Should a student’s major professor retire or leave VIMS before the student completes the degree, the student is required to select an appropriate on-campus advisor or co-advisor from the VIMS faculty.

Advisory Committee - The advisory committee, chosen by the student in consultation with the advisor, consists of at least five members and must be approved by the Associate Dean of Academic Studies. A majority of the committee members must be from the SMS faculty. The committee must include at least one SMS faculty member who is both outside of the student’s research discipline and outside of the student’s home department. At least one committee member with appropriate qualifications must be from outside of the School of Marine Science and William & Mary faculty. The committee must be approved by the Associate Dean of Academic Studies before the comprehensive and qualifying exams are scheduled.

Note: An M.S. program student who plans to petition to bypass the M.S. must constitute an examination committee in accordance with the requirements for a Ph.D. program advisory committee. This should be done prior to the scheduling of the comprehensive exam. Refer to M.S. Bypass Option    for more details.  

Pre-Qualifying Interview - The student is expected to schedule a meeting early in the program to discuss academic preparation and research ideas with the Advisory Committee. Doctoral students should have their pre-qualifying interview before the end of the second fall semester (for students matriculating in Fall).  

Comprehensive Exam (M.S. Bypass and Ph.D.)  - A written exam is administered by the student’s advisory committee and must be passed before the qualifying exam. The comprehensive exam allows a student to demonstrate comprehension and integration of material from the disciplines of marine science that are relevant to the student’s area of specialization. The objective of the written exam is to ensure that the student has an appropriate general understanding of the field as well as the specific knowledge needed to undertake their research project. Successful completion of a rigorous comprehensive exam signals that a student is ready to pursue advanced training and original scientific research. The comprehensive examination milestone is (21) months. The exam must be passed within 6 months, i.e. before (27) months. After the initial exam, Ph.D. students are allowed one exam retake for any sections that were not passed. At a minimum, a student must pass all but one of their exam sections to be allowed to proceed in the Ph.D. program to the qualifying exam. Students who fail more than one section will be given an option to enroll in the M.S. degree program. A student who seeks to bypass the M.S. degree has one opportunity to take the comprehensive exam.  If they pass all but one section, they may apply to bypass to the Ph.D. program.  There is no appeal of this policy.

The exam will be created, administered, and graded by the student’s advisory committee. For a student pursuing a M.S. bypass, the examination committee must satisfy the requirements for a Ph.D. advisory committee. The student’s advisor will notify the Associate Dean of Academic Studies of the outcome of the pass/fail exam and if any remedial action is needed. Following the exam, a copy of the questions, as well as the graded exam with the questions and student responses will be submitted to the SMS Registrar. The questions will be maintained electronically in the Office of Academic Studies. The graded exam will be maintained in the student’s file.

Qualifying Exam and Prospectus Defense - The qualifying examination must be passed and a prospectus must be accepted by the student’s committee. The qualifying examination and prospectus defense gauge a student’s progress early in the research program. The qualifying examination milestone is at (30) months for a Ph.D. track student and the exam must be completed within (12) months of the milestone deadline.

The qualifying examination is an oral exam designed to test a student’s scientific competence and ability to pursue the research project. The exam consists of two components: (1) questions that address knowledge specific to the proposed research project and (2) questions concerning the general knowledge in the student’s field of study. The qualifying examination will be administered by the student’s advisory committee and chaired by a  moderator  who is not a member of the student’s advisory committee. The moderator must be identified at least three weeks prior to the examination. It is expected that the committee members will attend in person. Should a committee member need to participate remotely, the advisor should alert the moderator and confirm the availability of adequate means of communications, both at VIMS and at the remote location. Students must file appropriate paperwork for the scheduling and announcement of the qualifying examination with the Office of Academic Studies. The approval of the Associate Dean of Academic Studies is required in the event that more than one committee member needs to participate remotely. Consistent with SMS procedures, the examination will be advertised and open to all faculty members. The examination allows a student’s advisory committee to identify any deficiencies in a student’s preparation to successfully conduct and complete the degree program. The minimum elapsed time between successful completion of the qualifying examination and the final defense must be no less than one year for Ph.D. students. SMS policy prohibits audio or video recording of exams, although exceptions may be made for students with documented disabilities.

The prospectus is a formal written presentation of the proposed research. Its purpose is to present the rationale for selection of the hypotheses, objectives and methodology to be used in the research. It must include a problem statement, review of current literature in the area of study, and a detailed plan of study, as well as a summary of preliminary research conducted by the student. The prospectus must also provide a detailed rationale for the proposed work, clearly stated objectives, and testable hypothesis(es) when appropriate, consistent with the problem statement, and a description of research design, field and laboratory studies, methods and data analysis intended to test the hypothesis. The prospectus must be formally approved by the committee; members participating remotely can sign the milestone form digitally or give the qualifying exam moderator the authority to sign this form.

A student who fails to meet the Qualifying Examination and Prospectus Defense milestone within the timeframe specified will be placed on academic probation. A student on academic probation will have one calendar year to satisfy any outstanding deficiencies. Failure to do so will result in automatic termination of the student’s degree program.

Admission to Candidacy - A student may apply for candidacy when they have completed the SMS core and departmental requirements, passed the comprehensive and qualifying exams, and have an approved prospectus. The student must also have achieved a grade point average of B (3.0) or better, averaged over all courses taken for credit at the time of application for admission to candidacy. The student will be admitted to candidacy upon a favorable recommendation of the student’s advisory committee, followed by a majority vote of the Academic Council, and the approval of the Associate Dean of Academic Studies.

Seminar and Defense - The dissertation defense consists of two parts. All students are required to present a seminar to the marine science faculty, staff and students on their dissertation research. The seminar will be advertised and open to any interested individuals. Immediately following the seminar, the student will undergo an oral examination, the defense of the dissertation, by the student’s advisory committee. The defense is chaired and administered by a  moderator  who is not a member of the student’s committee. It is expected that committee members will attend in person. Should a committee member need to participate remotely, the advisor should alert the moderator and confirm the availability of adequate means of communications, both at VIMS and at the remote location. The approval of the AD-AS is required in the event that more than one committee member participates remotely. Any interested W&M faculty members are invited to attend. SMS policy prohibits audio or video recording of exams and defenses, although exceptions may be made for students with documented disabilities.

At the conclusion of the defense, the student’s advisory committee will vote on a pass/fail decision, and indicate this on the Defense Acceptance form. Unanimous committee approval is necessary for satisfactory completion of both the dissertation defense and the final version of the dissertation. Following the student’s defense, the SMS Registrar will initiate the Dissertation Final Acceptance form and send it electronically via DocuSign to the committee in the routing order established by the moderator at the student’s defense. Once final edits following the defense have been incorporated, the advisor and student will also sign this form. 

Submission of Dissertation - All Ph.D. students are required to submit an electronic-only dissertation to the William & Mary Institutional Repository via the ProQuest ETD Administrator website no later than 11:59 p.m. on the deadline date listed on the academic calendar in this catalog. Bound print copies of dissertations are no longer submitted to the Swem and Hargis libraries. Refer to the  SMS Student Handbook  for additional guidelines.

Completion of Degree Requirements - The requirements for the degree, including submission of the approved dissertation must be completed within specified timelines as follows:

• 48 months - students pursuing a Ph.D. who enter the program with a SMS M.S. degree
• 60 months - students pursuing a Ph.D. who enter the program with a M.S. degree or equivalent from another institution
• 72 months - students pursuing a Ph.D. who bypass completion of a SMS M.S. degree

School of Marine Science (SMS) students generally are bound by the requirements stated in the catalog for the academic year stated in their Notification of Admission letter. A student’s department and advisory committee may prescribe additional requirements for the student.

Marine Science & Conservation (MSC)

Program Overview

The PhD in Marine Science & Conservation (MSC) is designed to ensure that students receive detailed training in a particular discipline of marine natural or social science, while being exposed to sufficient interdisciplinary knowledge that they are able to synthesize information from both the social and natural sciences and apply that information to policy-making. These students will be prepared for careers either in university teaching or research, or outside of the university involving the application of science to policy-making.  

Doctoral students in MSC emphasize research as the major part of their degree programs. The committee, chaired by the student’s faculty advisor, will recommend which of the program’s required courses students should take along with any additional courses, and generally help to shape the student’s research program.

• View faculty who mentor in the MSC program

Where You'll Study

The bulk of a student's time will be spent at the  Duke Marine Lab  in Beaufort, N.C. Doctoral students in Marine Science & Conservation typically spend one-two semesters taking graduate classes at Duke’s main campus before moving to the  Duke Marine Lab  to complete their research, although residence in Durham is not required. Some sources of funding are contingent upon having an advisor from the Marine Lab's resident faculty.

Requirements

The Division in Marine Science & Conservation at the Nicholas School of the Environment administers its own PhD program. All PhD students in the MSC program fulfill requirements in four areas: professional development, interdisciplinary seminar, theory and methods, and research seminars. The course work amounts to 8 graded and 2 non-graded units of study.

Course Requirements - For students who matriculated 2017 or earlier

Please note the requirements listed immediately below apply to students who matriculated 2017 or earlier. If you matriculated 2018 onwards, please expand the section below to view requirements.

Interdisciplinary

• ENV 886A Current Topics in Marine Conservation – Second year seminar (2 units, graded)

Social Science Choose (1):

• ENV 860SA Political Ecology (3 units, graded), or
• ENV 887A Policy Analysis of the Commons (3 units, graded)

Natural Science Choose (1):

• ENV 876A Data and Time Series Analysis (3 units, graded), or
• BIO/ENV 773LA Marine Ecology (3 units, graded)

Professional Development

• ENV 849A. Professional Development. Alternating topics, taken twice (1 unit, P/F)

Research Seminar

• Students in years 2-4 will present a 15-minute talk on the status of their research each year. Ungraded.

Other Requirements

In addition to MSC and other course work, MSC students are required to complete a preliminary examination and complete a dissertation. The dissertation is presented in a public seminar and defended to the committee in a dissertation examination.

All students are required to serve as a TA at least once (i.e., one semester) during their PhD tenure as part of the MSC PhD training.

Students should discuss other course options and training needs with their advisor.

Course Requirements - For students who matriculated 2018 onwards

Please note the requirements below apply to students who matriculated 2018 onwards. If you matriculated 2017 or earlier, please refer to the section above for requirements.

• ENV 886 Current Topics in Marine Conservation – First year seminar (2 units, graded)

Choose (1):

• ENV 865A College Teaching & Course Design (2 units, graded), or
• ENV849A Proposal Preparation and Evaluation (2 units, graded)

FeATURES · 01 / 03

Using molecular techniques to study oyster reef communities.

Laura Givens, a PhD candidate in the Duke University Program in Marine Science and Conservation, uses cutting edge molecular techniques to study oyster reef communities at the Duke Marine Lab.

Watch Video

FeATURES · 02 / 03

Anjali boyd: elevating voices.

What motivates the next generation of environmental leaders? For doctoral student Anjali Boyd, it’s the drive to elevate the voices of youth, women and people of color in environmental decision making and bring broader perspectives to conservation.

FeATURES · 03 / 03

Finding the gaps in plastic pollution prevention.

Zoie Diana MEM'16 talks about returning to Duke to pursue a PhD, and her research on gaps in plastic pollution mitigation efforts across sectors such as biology, policy, law and industry.

Admissions Criteria

Applicants to the PhD in MSC will be assessed by faculty in the Division of Marine Science and Conservation. The faculty will evaluate application materials using the criteria listed below before providing recommendations to the Graduate School of Duke University. 

• Research and/or other relevant work experience, including publications
• Contribution to diversity and inclusion
• Intellectual fit
• Personal statement
• Recommendation letters
• Prior education (degrees and coursework)
• Prior academic performance
• Commitment to society

How to Apply

Before applying to the MSC Doctoral program it is  critical to identify one or a few professors  you would like to work with who can discuss program options and direct you to the appropriate program. No student will be admitted, no matter how good his or her credentials, unless a member of the faculty has the interest and ability to mentor (and in some cases fund) the student. For further information, contact Jim Hench , the Director of Graduate Studies (DGS), Rachel Lo Piccolo , the assistant to the Director of Graduate Studies (DGSA), or  one of the professors who mentor in the MSC program .

Applications are entirely through  Duke’s Graduate School . The  Doctoral program application is available online .

See the  Duke Graduate School  and follow the links above for the specific PhD programs for details about admission and degree requirements.

For Current & Admitted Students

Please consult the  Graduate School website  for most information. We cannot recapitulate all of the information from the graduate school here; it is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with this website, and consult it as needed. However, some key information is listed below. We (the DGS and DGSA) are happy to help clarify any questions that arise.

​Preliminary Exam/Thesis Process

The certification meeting.

The certification meeting is an in-person meeting of the student and the proposed thesis committee. It should typically occur in the second year of study. The purpose of the certification meeting is to officially form the thesis committee. This meeting must occur at least 30 days prior to the prelim. Please check the  Graduate School website  for the specific paperwork that you need to submit and requirements for thesis committee composition; in addition, please fill out a MSC specific certification meeting form have it signed, and turn it in to the DGSA. Additional paperwork is typically required ahead of time in order to include committee members who are not full Duke faculty.

The “prelim”

The preliminary exam is an examination that lasts up to (but no more than) 3 hours and is intended to test the students’ preparation to carry out dissertation research. It should occur at the end of the second year or beginning of the third year, and must occur by the end of the 3rd year, unless an exception is requested of and granted by the Graduate School. The format of the exam varies from research group to research group within MSC, but is generally an oral examination (and written for social science track students) that includes evaluation of the students’ general intellectual preparation (ie, broad knowledge of the field of study) as well as evaluation of a written PhD research proposal sent by the student to the committee at least two weeks prior to the prelim. The prelim is conducted by the PhD thesis committee, and all committee members must be present. Note that the rules governing this exam are set by the Graduate School. After passing this exam, students are officially “PhD candidates.” Please check the  Graduate School website  for the specific paperwork that you need to submit. Additional paperwork is required ahead of time in order to have remote participation. A short description of the prelim is  here .

Annual meetings

You should have a meeting with your thesis committee at least once per year after passing your prelim. If this does not occur, you and your advisor will need to explain why.

The defense and thesis

You are ready to defend! This should normally occur by the end of your 5th year. The defense includes a public presentation (normally no more than an hour including questions) and a closed examination, conducted by the PhD thesis committee. (note that the rules governing this exam are set by the Graduate School). Please check the  Graduate School website  for the specific paperwork that you need to submit.

PhD students are funded from various sources that likely will change during the course of their program. Funding sources include (and are not limited to): Research Assistantships funded by their mentor’s research funding, Teaching Assistantships, Students own research grants or fellowships or internal fellowships. 

When students’ or mentors’ research or fellowship is partial and must be supplemented by NSOE, additional TA service may be required. Students in good standing and making good academic progress will have access to 5 years of funding from Duke from the date of matriculation, even if you and your advisor are unable to obtain other forms of funding (grants, fellowships, etc). However, note that obtaining outside funding during the 5 years does not extend the 5-year timeline.

Please note that additional  funding is available from The Graduate School at Duke , as are other forms of support such as  child care subsidies . Applying for grant is a very useful experience, and if you get one, it will be good for both you and your mentor!

Annual evaluations

Per Graduate School rules, you must fill out an annual self-evaluation at the end of the academic year. We will contact you to request this form.

Travel and conference funding

A once-a-year conference travel award is available for five years to enrolled MSC PhD students ($500 annually; contact the DGSA for details). Additionally, for students who have passed their preliminary exams, additional Graduate School travel and conference funding is available. In both cases you must apply ahead of time for the funding.

Committee travel funding

Due to our remote location of Beaufort, N.C., $750 is allotted for committee member travel for each student’s preliminary and defense exams.

'PhDeep': Demystifying PhD Life at Duke

In the PhDeep series of the Seas the Day podcast , we hope to inform and inspire audiences as we talk to doctoral students about their experiences raising families, doing community outreach, and missing home while pursuing one of the highest achievement of their lives.

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PHD, Marine Sciences

Study the biology, chemistry, geology, and physics of Earth’s oceans and coasts. We offer interdisciplinary training at facilities in Athens and the Skidaway Institute of Oceanography, and provide research opportunities on local and global issues.

Degree Type: Doctoral

Degree Program Code: PHD_MARS

Degree Program Summary:

The Department of Marine Sciences offers a Ph.D. degree program with concentrations in chemical, biological, geological and physical oceanography. Research opportunities exist across a wide range of topics that reflect the multidisciplinary nature of Marine Sciences.

Graduate students in the Department of Marine Sciences are supported by assistantships or fellowships, and the high faculty to student ratio facilitates highly individualized training and mentoring.

Graduate students have access to the extensive field and laboratory facilities on the UGA main campus in Athens and at the Skidaway Institute of Oceanography in Savannah, the University of Georgia Marine Institute on Sapelo Island, and the Marine Extension Service. Our faculty participate in multi-institutional research programs that provide unique opportunities for student research.

Current graduate students are conducting research in marine microbial metagenomics and ecology, organic and inorganic biogeochemistry, marine ecosystems and policy, biological oceanography, coastal circulation and ecology, deep-sea and sediment processes, marine geology, integrative modeling, climate change and others.

Reflecting the diversity of our program, our graduates find employment in a wide range of areas, including federal agencies, NGOs, industry and academia.

Office Location: Marine Sciences Building 325 Sanford Drive Athens, GA 30602

Locations Offered:

Athens (Main Campus)

College / School:

Franklin College of Arts & Sciences

346 Brooks Hall Athens, GA 30602

706-542-8776

Department:

Marine Sciences

Graduate Coordinator(s):

Clifton Buck

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School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences

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MS and PhD in Aquatic and Fisheries Science

Graduate degrees.

The School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences (SAFS) offers two graduate degrees with an optional additional credential in data sciences:

Master of Science in Aquatic and Fishery Sciences (MS)

The following courses are required for all students in the SAFS graduate program.

• QSCI 482 , Statistical Inference in Applied Research, 5 credits
• FISH Current Topics aka “5-TEENS” (FISH 510-514), minimum of 2 courses/4 credits , Current Topics series, 2-5 credits
• FISH 521 , Research Proposal Writing, 4 credits
• FISH 522 , Hot Topics in Aquatic and Fishery Sciences 2 credits

SAFS M.S. students need a minimum of 45 credits to graduate, which will include a combination of courses, seminars, and thesis credits.

More information: https://fish.uw.edu/students/advising/forms-guidelines-handbooks/

UW Graduate School Degree Policies & Procedures: https://grad.uw.edu/policies-procedures/

Doctor of Philosophy in Aquatic and Fishery Sciences (PhD)

SAFS PhD students need a minimum of 90 credits to graduate, which will include a combination of courses, seminars, and thesis credits.

Data Science Option in Aquatic and Fishery Sciences

The School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences Data Science Option (SAFS DSO) curriculum at the Master’s (M.S.) and Doctorate (Ph. D.) levels is designed to provide the breadth and depth of knowledge needed for a successful career at the interface of applied aquatic sciences and data science. The primary learning outcome for the SAFS DSO is for students to have professional working proficiency – gained through coursework – in data management, data visualization, software engineering (data focused), and statistical modeling.

Students complete courses from three out of four of the following areas. Each area lists current courses offered within SAFS and other departments on the UW Seattle campus that will satisfy the requirement in that area.

A minimum of 11 credits is required as follows

• 9 credits from courses in 3 of 4 topic areas below
• 2 credits of eScience seminar – minimum 2 quarters, 1 credit each

The 11 total credits for the DSO may be counted toward the minimum of 45 credits required for the SAFS MS degree or the 90 credits for the SAFS PhD degree. The 11+ data science option credits are not explicit requirements of the standard SAFS MS or PhD program.

DATA SCIENCE TOPIC AREAS:

Software Development for Data Science

• FISH 549 (3cr) Introduction to Environmental Data Science ( FISH 497A, WIN2021 will also apply )
• CSE 583 (4cr) Software Development for Data Scientists
• CHEM E 546 (3cr) Software Engineering for Molecular Data Scientists
• AMATH 583 (5cr) High Performance Scientific Computing
• M E 574 (3cr) Introduction to Applied Parallel Computing for Engineers

Data Management and/or Data Visualization

• FISH 554 (2cr) Beautiful Graphics in R
• FISH 546 (3cr) Bioinformatics for Environmental Sciences
• CSE 412 (4cr) Introduction to Data Visualization
• CSE 414 (4cr) Introduction to Database Systems
• CSE 544 (4cr) Principles of Database Systems
• HCDE 411/511 (4cr) Information Visualization

Department-Specific Course Options Related to Data Science

• FISH 558 (5cr) Decision Analysis in Natural Resource Management
• FISH 559 (5cr) Numerical Computing for the Natural Resources
• FISH 576 (2-5cr) Applied Stock Assessment I
• FISH 577 (2-5cr) Applied Stock Assessment II
• GENOME 569 (1.5cr) Bioinformatics Workflows for High-Throughput Sequencing Experiment

Advanced Statistics and/or Statistical Modeling

• FISH 458 (5cr) Advanced Ecological Modeling
• FISH 556 (5cr) Spatio-temporal Models for Ecologists
• FISH 560 (4cr) Applied Multivariate Statistics for Ecologists
• QERM 514 (4cr) Analysis of Ecological and Environmental Data I
• FISH 550 (4cr) Applied Time Series Analysis
• FISH 551 (4cr) Data and Resource-limited Methods in Fisheries Management
• FISH 555 (4cr) Age-Structured Models in Fisheries Stock Assessment
• FISH 557 (4cr) Demographic Estimation & Modeling
• ATM S 552 (3cr) Objective Analysis
• AMATH 582 (5cr) Computational Methods for Data Analysis
• AMATH 563 (5cr) Inferring Structure of Complex Systems
• AMATH 515 (5cr) Optimization: Fundamentals and Applications
• CSE/STAT 416 (4cr) Introduction to Machine Learning
• STAT 435 (4cr) Introduction to Statistical Machine Learning
• CSE 546 (4cr) Machine Learning
• STAT 535 (3cr) Statistical Learning: Modeling, Prediction, and Computing
• M E/E E 578 (4cr) Convex Optimization
• M E 599 (1-5cr) Special Topics: Machine Learning Control
• CSE 599 (1-5cr) Special Topics: Deep Reinforcement Learning
• Genome 559 (3cr) Introduction to Statistical and Computational Genomics

Research-Focussed Program

Students often begin their research project in the first quarter. Required coursework is minimal to allow for a self-designed plan of study tailored to support the research project. Most MS students complete the program with at least one publication and most PhD students graduate with multiple publications. 

Faculty Adviser

Faculty review all applicants to the graduate program and offer admission to work in their lab. On occasion, an applicant might receive an offer of admission to two different labs and would therefore get to choose. Faculty track student progress and provide mentorship. The adviser assists the student in planning initial coursework and may aid the development of a research program. The faculty adviser usually becomes the chairperson of the student’s supervisory committee or may assist in finding another appropriate faculty member who can supervise the student’s research.

Our current admissions cycle is for an Autumn Quarter start, and we begin accepting applications each year on September 1. The application submission deadline is November 15 for both domestic and international applicants.

Applicants are encouraged to contact potential advisers in the Fall, and definitely no later than February. You can review the online faculty profiles to determine whether your research background, interests, and objectives fit with one (or more) of the SAFS faculty and contact them accordingly. You do not need to have a specific research project in mind when you apply. However, you should have a clear idea of the type of research that you’d like to pursue and which SAFS faculty members are best suited to supervise your prospective research.

Please learn more about the admission process.

View more information about the Graduate School’s admissions policies and procedures at UW Office of Graduate Admissions . Admission and enrollment statistics can be found at Graduate School Statistics and Reports .

Funding is a critical aspect of admission. All of our graduate students are funded through four possible avenues: 1. research or teaching assistantships, 2. employer support, 3. other forms of aid (e.g., governmental sponsorship) or 4. SAFS fellowships.  Please learn more about how graduate students are funded in our program.

Degree Options

We hold MS and PhD students to the same standards – both are valuable; therefore, we have a unique structure allowing students that do not already hold a masters to seamlessly expand their thesis to a PhD with committee support. If you do not already hold a master’s by the time you begin the program, we ask that you apply through the UW Graduate School’s MS application portal but note on your application your intent to complete a PhD. 

Ocean Decade Conference 2024 Barcelona

Showcasing the university of plymouth's research on an international stage.

Experts were also on hand on a dedicated Marine Research Plymouth exhibition booth from 8 April.

Our delegation

Professor Richard Thompson OBE FRS

Director of the marine institute.

Professor Kerry Howell

Professor of deep-sea ecology.

Professor Jason Hall-Spencer

Professor of marine biology.

Dr Thomas Davies

Lecturer in marine conservation.

Kizzy Beaumont

Phd student.

Dr Imogen Napper

Visiting research fellow.

Dr Max Kelly

Research fellow (gcrf pisces) environmental science.

Dr Amelia Bridges

Research fellow, events we participated in.

“These include volcanic gas seeps, tidal lagoons, or upwelling areas that result in higher than average CO2 levels being present in the surrounding ocean. We can use these environments to investigate what the marine ecosystems might look like in the future given the projections for ocean acidification.”  

University of Plymouth at Barcelona

Professor Kerry Howell, Professor Richard Thompson and Kizzy Beaumont

Professor Kerry Howell presenting at the UN Ocean Decade Conference

Kizzy Beaumont presenting at the UN Ocean Decade Conference

Professor Jason Hall-Spencer with the ICONA project team

Dr Thomas Davies presenting at the UN Ocean Decade Conference

Our research.

TYRE-LOSS: Lost at Sea – where are all the tyre particles?

Challenger 150: A decade to study deep-sea life

Artificial Light Impacts on Coastal Ecosystems (ALICE)

International CO2 Natural Analogues Network (ICONA)

PISCES: a systems analysis approach to reduce plastic waste in Indonesian societies

Marine Institute