Indiana State University: Earth & Environmental Systems

San Diego Cruises 2002-2008

In the paleontology/paleoceanography lab at ISU, students work on marine sediments collected from a wide array of deep-sea locations during research cruises. The work done at ISU typically focuses on the relationships between tiny creatures and their seafloor environment. By understanding these relationships, we are better able to interpret environmental changes of the past based on the microfossil record of these creatures. Geological oceanography is not all lab work; it is critical for students to experience the collection and processing of research samples at sea. Toward this end, we have been successful over the past three years in sending ISU students and a post-doctoral researcher/instructor on a research cruise off San Diego.

This cruise is organized by Marine and Environmental Studies Faculty at the University of San Diego (USD), and the ship that is used is a research vessel operated by Scripps Institution of Oceanography (SIO). The purpose of this unique cruise is to provide students with hands-on experience collecting and processing research samples on board an active research vessel. This project exposes students and educators to a wide variety of scientists and students, inter-collegiate projects, and experiential learning opportunities.

Funding for ISU student participation in this experiential learning project (2002-2003) was provided by the ISU Foundation. This project is a collaborative, interdisciplinary effort with Ron Kaufmann, Sarah Gray, Anne Sturz, and Michel Boudrias in the Marine and Environmental Studies Program at at The University of San Diego.

Funding for ISU student participation in this experiential learning project (2004) was provided by the ISU College of Arts and Sciences and the Department of Geography, Geology and Anthropology. This project is a collaborative, interdisciplinary effort with Ron Kaufmann, Sarah Gray, Anne Sturz, and Michel Boudrias in the Marine and Environmental Studies Program at The University of San Diego, and Warren Smith at Scripps Institution of Oceanography.