FindAScienceBerth

FindAScienceBerth is an initiative to increase access to ship-based marine science opportunities by advertising available science berths on research cruises in a more transparent and inclusive way.

Ship-based fieldwork is an important part of a career in marine science, but access to research cruises is often limited to people who are already connected to large projects, senior researchers or established marine science institutions. At the same time, some research cruises may sail with available science berths that could be used to provide valuable experience to students, early-career researchers, technicians and others seeking to develop their marine science skills.

This opportunity is intended to help make those berths more visible and accessible. Applicants may apply to join a scientific cruise either to gain fieldwork experience as part of the wider scientific party, or, where appropriate, to carry out their own related scientific activity alongside the main cruise objectives.

The initiative has a strong equality, diversity and inclusion focus. It is designed to support people who may not otherwise have access to seagoing research opportunities, particularly those from backgrounds that are under-represented in marine science. The application and selection process should therefore be transparent, inclusive and focused on widening participation.

Applicants should explain why joining the cruise would be valuable for their development, what relevant skills or interests they would bring, and how the opportunity would support their future involvement in marine science. Where applicants are students, they may require the support of a supervisor or sponsor, and a suitable contact within the cruise’s scientific party.

The aim is to make better use of available berth capacity, support the next generation of marine scientists, and broaden participation in ship-based environmental research.