| Student News

SMEA Student Participates in Washington Ocean Acidification Center Research Cruise

SMEA second-year student Maddie Gard participated in the Washington Ocean Acidification Center’s spring research cruise aboard the Rachel Carson UW vessel from April 13–17.

The cruise, conducted three times annually throughout Puget Sound, supports long-term monitoring of ocean conditions and collects a wide range of environmental data, including eDNA samples.

During the cruise, Maddie worked alongside the research team to deploy the CTD and process water samples in the ship’s wet lab for chlorophyll measurements and eDNA preservation.

This hands-on experience directly connects to Maddie’s research at SMEA on the harmful algal bloom species Alexandrium catenella. The Washington Ocean Acidification Center has also supported her work through research assistant funding during her time at SMEA.

Experiences like this provide students with valuable opportunities to contribute to collaborative marine research while gaining field and laboratory experience in Puget Sound.A large blue and white research vessel named "Rachel Carson" is docked at a pier. The scene is overcast, and the American flag atop the ship is visible. A laboratory bench with a setup for filtration. Multiple funnels and flasks are arranged in a line, with tubes connecting them. Nearby, there are various lab materials including test tubes, protective gloves, and bottles. The organization suggests meticulous scientific work. A laboratory bench with a setup for filtration. Multiple funnels and flasks are arranged in a line, with tubes connecting them. Nearby, there are various lab materials including test tubes, protective gloves, and bottles. The organization suggests meticulous scientific work. A metal oceanographic instrument is suspended above calm waters on a clear day. A-frame structure holds the device; distant islands are visible. Sunset over a calm river with a large "W" on a boat in the foreground. A bridge spans the background under a sky with warm orange hues. Serene atmosphere. People on a research vessel wearing protective gear work with oceanographic equipment under a cloudy sky, focusing on scientific tasks. A person in a hoodie and beanie, wearing gloves, works at a lab bench on a ship, surrounded by bottles and equipment, under a porthole's natural light. a group of people on a boatSunset view from a ship's deck with scientific equipment and coiled ropes. The sky is vibrant with warm hues, casting reflections on the water.