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Ocean science researcher gets career boost

Madison Heard applied for a spot in the CSU Monterey Bay-based ocean science summer program as a way to “test the waters of research” for a possible career.

Consider the test a success. “After only a few weeks at the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, I am positive I want to continue on this path,” she said. Heard is one of 11 students – she and Catrin Wendt are the only ones from CSUMB – in the 10-week Monterey Bay Regional Ocean Science Research Experiences for Undergraduates program funded by the National Science Foundation. This is the second year of a three-year grant. By the end of the summer, the students will have completed an independent research project under the supervision of a mentor. They will go through the customary steps of scientific research: formulating a thesis, writing a proposal, collecting and analyzing data, and presenting their findings. They also attend professional development workshops and learn skills such as basic GIS.

There’s also time for social events, such as kayaking trips to Elkhorn Slough, barbecues on the beach and a visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Students can choose to work with mentors from CSUMB, the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve, Hopkins Marine Station, MBARI, Moss Landing Marine Labs and the Naval Postgraduate School.

MBARI is a great fit for Heard. “It’s like the NASA of marine science,” she said.

Her project involves studying the impacts of ocean acidification on abalone.

Halfway through the summer, what has she gotten out of the experience?

“ . . . Too many things to count,” she said. “From networking to friendships to having amazing opportunities to go out on the R/V Rachel Carson. . . everything I have done this summer has shaped me into a more confident researcher.

“This experience has been nothing short of life changing, and I am excited to take what I’ve learned and apply it to my path as a marine scientist.”

Follow the students' research on social media.