What exactly do you do?
I study the geology and geomorphology of the Endeavour hydrothermal vent fields, located on the Juan de Fuca Ridge, from the regional to local scales. I am interested in finding out how magmatic, tectonic, and hydrothermal processes interact at this intermediate-spreading ridge, causing vigorous hydrothermal flow along a significant portion of the ridge. To study this, I collect remotely-sensed bathymetry data from ships, ROVs, and AUVs, which provide detailed information about the geomorphology and structure of the seafloor. I combine this data with visual observations of geology and venting activity to create geology maps of the vent fields and axial valley at Endeavour. Using these maps, I can carefully examine the linkages between flow morphology, structural elements, and hydrothermal flow; hypothesize about the subsurface fluid circulation; and create models for the evolution of hydrothermal activity at each vent field along the ridge.
What do you enjoy the most about your job?
My favorite part of being in oceanography is the experience of going to sea. When exploring the hydrothermal vents, I get the amazing experience of seeing areas of the world that are basically unexplored. Much like astronauts, oceanographers explore a vast, dark area that provides new discoveries with every new expedition.
What do you enjoy the least about your job?
The aspect I enjoy least is our inability to visit our field sites whenever we want. Right now, we have to wait for a research cruise to obtain more data about the geology, biology, and chemistry of the vents and then hope that the weather cooperates and all our instruments and vehicles work perfectly. In the future, remote observatories will make our sites much more accessible to year-round research.
What key events in your childhood most influenced your current career?
I’ve always liked rocks and minerals. One of my favorite memories of childhood was a family trip to the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C. I made a beeline to the Hall of Minerals and basically had to be dragged out of the exhibit! I also grew up in Florida, so the ocean was a constant presence in my life.
Do you have any fun/funny stories about lab experiences or adventures in the field?
The best stories always involve the scientists playing tricks on one another! When one new grad student had his first Alvin dive on a recent cruise, we stole all his clothes, dunked them in water, and then stuck them to the walls of the walk-in freezer. They freeze instantly and have to be peeled off – it’s very cool!
Do you play any sports or have any favorite hobbies/special interests?
Growing up, I loved to play soccer. This fall, I’m learning to scuba dive (finally!) after several fun snorkeling experiences. Other than that, I like to spend my free time reading, dancing, doing crafty things, and being with my friends.
Do you have any advice for an aspiring high school student who might want to pursue your career?
Take as many science classes as possible – in physics, chemistry, biology, and geology. You never know which one you’ll like the best, and all will help you in your career. Don’t neglect English, though, because good writing skills are critical in the sciences. Also, look for opportunities to volunteer or do an internship in an aquarium, science museum, or an oceanographic institution – you’ll learn so much more about your chosen field.
What contribution would you most like to make to science in the next 5 years?
I’d like to familiarize everyone with the geology of the Endeavour vent fields, especially those people who will probably never get a chance to visit it in person, and to make some headway in understanding the subsurface flow of the ridge’s hydrothermal system. I’d also like to develop a set of parameters for use with remotely-sensed bathymetry data sets that will help target the presence of hydrothermal vents, which could then be used to explore for new hydrothermal vents.
What is the approximate salary range for your profession?
As a grad student, about $20,000 a year. But, I hear it goes up. ;)
