Join CCMI for an exciting two-week programme centered around underwater field research methods in coral reef ecology and locally based research projects.
“The CCMI Reef Research Experience was the most incredible experience. I learned so much about coral reefs, but even more about myself… CCMI gave me a new vision for my future goals and I am very grateful for everything I’ve gained and learned through this program. I would recommend this program to anyone and everyone remotely interested in marine science.”
– Anna Mae Meezy, Reef Research Experience Participant 2017
Programme Dates: 28 December 2020 – 11 January 2021
Experience and Certifications to be Gained Include:
- Minimum of 15+ research method dives (weather permitting)
- Workshops on Caribbean coral, algae, and fish identification
- Hands-on field training in coral reef ecology and underwater field research methods such as: roving diver surveys, running transects, point-line intercept surveys, underwater quadrats, CoralWatch coral bleaching surveys, AGRRA benthic surveys, AGRRA fish surveys, RVC fish surveys, and BRUV surveys
- Experience working with EDGE coral species (specifically Acropora cervicornis and Acropora palmata) in a nursery setting through multiple growth methods
- Analysis of images using the most up to date software systems (CPCe, CORALNET, and AgiSoft)
- DAN Emergency Oxygen Provider course
- DAN Basic Life Support course
- DAN First Aid for Hazardous Marine Life Injuries course
- DAN Neurological Assessment course
CCMI will issue a Certificate of Completion of 80 hours in Underwater Field Research Methods upon the completion of the course (University credits can be petitioned)
Candidate Requirements:
We seek to fill 16 spaces for a 14-day period during the winter of 2021. Requirements include:
- 18+ years of age
- Open Water Diver with at least 20 logged dives (Advanced certification or higher preferred)
- Insured through DAN
- Current enrollment in an undergraduate or graduate program with a passion for marine science, biology, environmental science or related field (or a recent graduate)
- Must be physically fit to work long field days in the sun and on the water
Course Fee:
A course fee of $2,800 USD includes:
- On site accommodations for 14-nights
- Three meals per day
- Roundtrip airport transportation
- All research dives and snorkels
- All scuba gear rental (you will need to provide your own mask, fins, and snorkel)
- All necessary field equipment
- The use of CCMI bicycles
- DAN Basic Life Support course
- DAN Emergency Oxygen Provider course
- DAN First Aid for Hazardous Marine Life Injuries course
- DAN Neurological Assessment course
- All offered course work (cumulating in 80 hours of work in underwater field research methods)
This fee does not cover flight costs and DAN dive accident insurance.
Background and Rationale:
|
Whole economies and stable societies are rooted in healthy marine environments. For the Cayman Islands, coral reefs are one of the nation’s greatest treasures that brings economic value and positive public relations to the country. Additionally, on a global scale, coral reefs are at a heightened level of stress due to climate change, ocean acidification, and direct anthropogenic impacts. Average coral cover in the Caribbean has dropped to 14% and continues to decline globally. However, reefs in Little Cayman show an average coral cover of >20% and have recovered from four recognized bleaching events over the past decade. Specifically, during the 2015 temperature-induced bleaching event, corals were moderately to severely impacted, however by 2016, these corals had recovered to what appeared to be 100% health. This recovery demonstrates the potentially resilient capabilities of corals around the reefs of Little Cayman. This local ecological history makes Little Cayman an ideal place for growth in research, education, and conservation efforts.
Application Process:
Please send the following to education@reefresearch.org:
- A letter of interest (maximum 500 words)
- Resume
- Contact details for two persons of reference
Once accepted into the Reef Research Experience, a $500 USD deposit will be necessary to secure your spot. This will come directly out of the overall programme cost of $2,800 USD.
|
|
