This week marks the start of the last research cruise for our EPR Biofilms 4 Larvae project. We set sail late morning around 9:15, once everyone was safely onboard WHOI’s R/V Atlantis. Almost immediately, large gusts of wind pushed us along and by 9:30 we really started to boogie.
As per tradition, everyone in the science party gazed into the horizon as we began our transit. Photo credit: Mel Lemke, Western Washington University
Living onboard a ship, even one as incredible as WHOI’s R/V Atlantis, can sometimes be incredibly challenging (in addition to being fantastically incredible). From technical difficulties, to large swells and sea sickness, we began our research cruise troubleshooting, but thats part of life at sea! It’s not always sunshine and rainbows, even when gazing into the beautiful sunsets we witness at sea. Yet, despite a few snaffoos, everyone onboard is buzzing with excitement and optimism as we prep for our missions. We have already begun creating wonderful memories together, including witnessing a small pod of dolphins immediately after departure. They were with us for only a moment before disappearing back into the dark blue pacific ocean, but the positivity they brought was a boost we all felt.
In other good news, this voyage is the first for two members from the Arellano lab! A big congratulations to our REU student Jack (bottom left) and Masters student Laura (bottom right in her safety suit).
Jack (left) and Laura (right) experiencing their first few days at sea. Photo credit: Mel Lemke, Western Washington University
Difficulties faced upon departure are fairly standard for any operation, but such challenges only highlight the incredible strength and resilience of the entire science party, the crew of the R/V Atlantis, and the Alvin team. The crew of WHOI’s R/V Atlantis have been miracle workers and we are so grateful for all of their hard work and dedication to make this trip happen. It’s definitely been an eventful start to the trip, but we are a strong and resilient team dedicated to discovery and exploration. There are no other humans I would rather be out here with, and I cant wait to share what we learn!
Peace, Love, and Larvae
Mel
Laura (left) and Mel (right), bundled up for the windy departure! Photo credit: Mel Lemke, Western Washington University
Mel Lemke is a first year Master’s student in the Biology Program at Western Washington University. This is her second Alvin cruise. Mel likes worms.
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EPR Biofilms4Larvae project is a multi-institutional NSF grant: OCE-1948580 (Arellano), OCE-1947735 (Mullineaux), OCE-1948623 (Vetriani).
Also find us on Instagram! @larvallab, #Biofilms4Larvae
The Inactive Sulfides project is a multi-institutional NSF grant: OCE-2152453 (Mullineaux & Beaulieu), OCE-2152422 (Sylvan & Achberger).
Also find us on Instagram! @jasonsylvan, #LifeAfterVents
The Arellano Larval Lab is currently seeking one WWU undergraduate intern to conduct deep-sea biological research at Shannon Point Marine Center (SPMC) and join on an upcoming research expedition to the East Pacific Rise (EPR) hydrothermal vents. The position is an NSF-funded Research Experience for Undergraduates internship, starting winter quarter 2024 as part a project to explore the predictive nature of microbial biofilms for cuing larval settlement at deep-sea hydrothermal vents. Gain valuable experience both in the lab and at sea while investigating larval and microbial ecology in unique and fascinating hydrothermal vent ecosystems. This position includes a stipend during the academic quarter that the research cruise will take place (winter quarter 2024). During other academic quarters research credits may be earned and development of an undergraduate thesis project is encouraged.
To learn more about the project, visit here to read the overview and here to read the blog posts from our first cruise!
Internship Details
This paid internship will be full time during winter 2024 (ie, you will NOT be able to take any courses at WWU in winter quarter). Please note that this position requires significant time onboard a research vessel at sea (30 days) and international travel (Costa Rica), so a passport is required. All travel to and from the port, all meals and lodging during travel, and all meals on board the ship will be provided. After the research cruise, housing at the SPMC dorms will be provided.
Student Expectations
In collaboration with Dr. Arellano, the intern will develop a guided, individual research project related to the goals of the described research topic. During the research cruise in January- February 2024, the intern may start developing their research project so that sampling or experimental work can be conducted. Besides working on their own research, the intern will be expected to participate in general cruise objectives, such as sample logging, dive video editing, and sample processing. To get an idea of what it is like to be on a research cruise, take a look at the larval lab blog posts from recent cruises: EPR, SALT, Lau Basin.
This internship is designed in coordination with WWU’s research participation courses (see below) to integrate undergraduates in every aspect of research, from proposal development to communication of results. Besides participation in the cruise and conducting the independent research project, we will encourage student interns to enroll for credit through their majors (e.g., MACS 494 Independent Research Project, MACS 496 Communicating Marine Science Research, ESCI 498A Senior Thesis, ESCI 498B Internship, ESCI 498C Senior Project; OR via and Independent Study in Biology).
Enrollment in one of the above MACS, ESCI, or Biology research courses will be encouraged in the quarter after the cruise activities. During this time students will work one-on-one with Dr. Arellano as they finish developing their independent project and process samples and data from the cruise. Further research credits may be earned in future quarters depending on research and academic goals.
Students will gain valuable scientific skills working on this project, including molecular techniques, microscopy, and data analysis. They will also get the opportunity to learn first-hand about deep-sea research assets and cruise logistics. Additionally, students will be encouraged to present their research at scientific conferences and on campus (for example, during WWU’s Scholars Week) to enhance their communication skills, network with scientists, and get experience presenting scientific research to a variety of audiences.
Eligibility
Open to WWU undergraduate students in MACS, ESCI, Biology, or other related science major programs.
Preference for students that have at least one-two years remaining (after this year) as an undergrad at WWU.
Students supported with NSF funds must be citizens or permanent residents of the United States.
The Arellano lab is committed to supporting students with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and needs.
How to apply
Application package includes responses to the following prompts, CV, and unofficial transcripts. These will be submitted through a google form here.
Responses to the following should conform to character limits and be submitted through the google form.
Describe the areas of marine science that most interest you and your personal goals for the internship and beyond. (4000 character limit maximum, ~1 page, 12pt font, single spaced)
What qualities and characteristics will you bring to the program because of your work/activities/other life experiences? (2000 character limit maximum, ~1/2-page, 12pt font, single spaced)
Write about an experience of overcoming adversity or an obstacle in your life. (2000 character limit maximum, ~1/2-page, 12pt font, single spaced)
The name(s) of 1-2 professors here at WWU who could speak to your interests, motivation, work ethic, and accountability.
Important Dates
Application due date October 20, 2023
Awardees notified November 5, 2023
Cruise information: 30 days at sea on the RV Atlantis during winter quarter 2024 (Depart from San Diego, CA January 10; Return to Golfito, Costa Rica February 10).
If you have any additional questions, please contact Dr. Shawn Arellano (arellas@wwu.edu)
Check out this article in Western Today about Larval Lab member, Dexter Davis, and his recent fellowship award and future plans! Congratulations Dexter!
The Arellano lab is proud to be showing off the hard work we do! Dr. Shawn Arellano was chosen to be interviewed by the National Deep Submergence Facility (NDSF) for her work at cold seeps. Through working at these sites, she has been able to work with all three of the NDSF’s prized deep-sea vehicles; HOV Alvin, ROV Jason, and AUV Sentry. Check out NDSF’s post and learn more about how these vehicles have helped us with our project!
The Arellano lab is looking for a postdoctoral research associate to work on an NSF-funded collaborative project investigating “The Predictive Nature of Microbial Biofilms for Cuing Larval Settlement at Deep-Sea Hydrothermal Vents.” The postdoc will work with PI Dr. Shawn Arellano and collaborators at Rutgers and Woods Hole Oceanographic using manipulative field experiments at the East Pacific Rise hydrothermal vents to model the habitat and biofilm cues that predict variations in larval settlement. Field experiments will be followed by shipboard tests of hypotheses using field collected larvae, lab developed biofilms, and pressure vessels. Because WWU is a primarily undergraduate institution, there are also opportunities to work with undergrads and MS students, and potentially to teach and participate in pedagogical workshops.
The successful candidate will be a marine ecologist with strong experimental design and quantitative skills, as well as interest or knowledge in larval settlement and hydrothermal vents. Prior seagoing experience is not required but is a plus. The position is a two-year appointment and our first research cruise is winter 2022. Someone who could start by Fall 2021 is preferred.
Position Duties and Responsibilities:
Conducting experiments at sea, managing data, and conducting statistical analyses (50%)
Writing manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed journals; presenting data at scientific conferences. (25%)
Broader impact activities: mentorship of undergraduates and graduate students and participation in a science-in-action film (15%)
Preparing for research cruises, including ordering, preparing equipment, packing, and shipping (10%)
The successful candidate must be willing and able to conduct research at sea for long periods of time (1-2 months at a time, on at least two research cruises).
From left to right: Top row: Dr. Shawn Arellano (WWU), Dr. Craig Young (UO), Michael Gray (NCSU), Tessa Beaver (WWU), Laura Murray (WWU) Middle row: Liam Patrick (CSUMB), Fiona McBride (WWU), Carmen Sanchez-Reddick (UO), Casey Barnard (UO), Caitlin Plowman (UO), Lauren Rice (UO), Avery Calhoun (UO), Mitchell Hebner (WWU). Bottom row: Sinja Rist (UO), Dexter Davis (WWU), Ian Grace (NCSU), Leo Zaklikowski (UO).
Continuing our Seep Animal Larval Transport (SALT) research, the Larval Lab is currently quarantining in Woods Hole, Massachusetts along with students from the labs of Dr. Craig Young (University of Oregon) and Drs. Eggleston and He (North Carolina State University), and even one scientist from Germany!
While we are restricted to our cottages at Devil’s Lane, Marine Biological Laboratory’s housing, that doesn’t mean we aren’t staying busy! Pictured above is one of multiple lectures hosted by Dr. Craig Young, this one focusing on the history of deep-sea larval biology, paired with Dr. Young highlighting his fascinating collection of historical microscopes. We will have additional lectures about larval morphology, preparing us for larval identification while at sea!
While we learn about the science we will be conducting, our “quaranteam”, our team of quarantining scientists, is also meeting each other. In our free time we are sharing scientific papers, discussing research questions and potential projects, continuing classes, and becoming familiar with native fauna like ticks, turkeys, and snapping turtles in our backyards.
In order to ensure safe science at sea, we are following thorough safety protocols amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. After two weeks of isolation, daily temperatures checks, and two COVID tests, we will be able to mobilize on board the R/V Thompson (Cruise TN-391) on Sunday, May 23rd. On board the ship we will continue to practice safety guidelines, to protect each other and ourselves.
Thank you to the Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) team for providing housing, food, and working with us through these two weeks, and thank you to the University of Washington for communicating with us about COVID protocols for the R/V Thompson. We are all so excited to be at sea and are thankful to have the opportunity to continue deep-sea research given the pandemic.
To read more about our project visit our project’s website click here and stay tuned for more updates about what we are doing at sea!
The Larval Lab is currently seeking 1 WWU undergraduate to join us for a full-time, paid, 10-week Research Experience of Undergraduates (REU) during Fall 2021. Join us at sea as we explore life at cold seep environments in the Gulf of Mexico and Western Atlantic Margin. Gain valuable experience both in the lab and at sea while investigating community structure, connectivity, species interactions and more in this extreme environment. Whether you are early into your college career and exploring career paths or are a senior looking to go out with a bang, this is a great opportunity to pick up hands-on sea-board experience with many more perks attached! Early career undergraduate students are encouraged to apply!
Half-time REU Option:
Students may also apply for a half-time two-quarter REU (Summer/Fall 2021 or Fall 2021/Winter 2022) where students may take up to 6 credits of regular courses and work 20 hours/week on the REU. Students are still expected to take the summer Science Communication in Visual Media course (course tuition covered) or equivalent.
Project Summary
Ever since hydrothermal vents and methane seeps were first discovered in the deep ocean more than 40 years ago, scientists have wondered how these isolated communities, fully dependent on underwater “islands” of toxic chemicals, are first colonized by organisms, and how the populations of these specialized animals are exchanged and maintained. These fundamental processes depend on the transport of babies (larvae) by the ocean currents, yet because the larvae are microscopic and diluted in the vastness of the ocean, it is very difficult to determine where and how they drift. This project uses an autonomous underwater vehicle to collect larvae from precise regions of the water column. Larval traps on the bottom and chemical analyses of larval shells will also be used to determine the depths where larvae swim. These findings will provide realistic estimates for mathematical models that show how biology interacts with ocean currents to predict which methane seeps will be colonized by larvae originating at different depths. A detailed knowledge of larval dispersal is needed for conservation and management of the deep sea. Without such information, we cannot know the best placement of marine protected areas, nor can we facilitate the reestablishment of communities impacted by deep-sea mining, drilling, or other human activities. This project will provide hands-on at-sea training for college students to learn the rapidly vanishing skills needed for studies of larvae and embryos in their natural habitats. Learning opportunities will also be available to individuals of all ages through new, interactive exhibits on deep-sea biology and larval ecology produced for small museums and aquaria on the coasts of Oregon, Washington and North Carolina.
Reliable estimates of connectivity among metapopulations are increasingly important in marine conservation biology, ecology and phylogeography, yet biological parameters for biophysical models in the deep sea remain largely unavailable. The movements of deep-sea vent and seep larvae among islands of habitat suitable for chemosynthesis have been inferred from current patterns using numerical modeling, but virtually all such models have used untested assumptions about biological parameters that should have large impacts on the predictions. This project seeks to fill in the missing biological parameters while developing better models for predicting the dispersal patterns of methane seep animals living in the Gulf of Mexico and on the Western Atlantic Margin. Despite the existence of similar seeps at similar depths on two sides of the Florida peninsula, the Western Atlantic seeps support only a subset of the species found in the Gulf of Mexico. It is hypothesized that the ability of larvae to disperse through the relatively shallow waters of the Florida Straits depends on an interaction between the adult spawning depth and the dispersal depth of the larvae. Dispersal depth, in turn, will be influenced by larval flotation rates, swimming behaviors, feeding requirements, and ontogenetic migration patterns during the planktonic period. The recently developed SyPRID sampler deployed on AUV Sentry will be used to collect larvae from precise depth strata in the water column, including layers very near the ocean floor. Larval traps deployed on the bottom at three depths in each region will be used in conjunction with the plankton collections to determine what proportion of larvae are demersal. Comparisons of stable oxygen isotopes between larval and juvenile mollusk shells will provide information on the temperatures (and therefore depths) that larvae develop, and geochemical analyses of larval and juvenile shells will determine whether larval cohorts mix among depth strata. Ocean circulation and particle transport modeling incorporating realistic biological parameters will be used to predict the movements of larvae around the Florida Peninsula for various spawning depths and seasons.
Location
Summer 2021 students will be housed at SPMC while taking the remote summer course, Science Communications using Visual Media. Travel to and from port, housing and meals during the cruise will be provided. Any additional travel, meals (such as during stay at SPMC) and frills will be at the student’s expense.
Student Expectations
In collaboration with Dr. Arellano, the REU intern will develop an individual research project related to the goals of the described research topic. They can proceed with their normal academic programs while participating in the internship and the rest of the project. This internship is designed in coordination with WWU’s research participation courses (see below) to integrate undergraduates in every aspect of research, from proposal development to communication of results. Besides participation in the cruise and conducting the independent research project, we will encourage student interns to enroll for credit through their majors in Environmental Science or Biology (e.g., ESCI 498A Senior Thesis, ESCI 498B Internship, and/or ESCI 498C Senior Project; OR Biol 395 Biology Research Participation, Biol 494 Biology Research, Biol 495 Research Communication).
Enrollment in one of the above ESCI or Biology research courses will be encouraged in the quarter prior to the cruise activities. During this time REU interns will work one-on-one with Arellano as they develop a short research proposal for work they would like to carry out shipboard during the cruise. Students may also enroll in research credits to complete processing of data from the cruise, depending on their research and academic needs.
The student will conduct this research during the quarter in which the research cruise coincides and may carry out the research project shipboard or back in the lab after the cruise. Besides working on research, the intern will be assigned a role on the cruise, such as sample logging or dive video editing. Student will be encouraged to enroll in a shipboard Deep-sea Ecology Course, co-taught by Dr. Arellano and will include lectures from the scientist participating in the cruise in their areas of specialization, introduction to ship navigation skills, and introduction to the deep-sea assets by the crews of the ROV Alvin.
Students will enroll in a new Summer course, Communicating Science through Visual Media (Comm 297) or equivalent. Tuition for this course will be covered by the REU. With the tools picked up in this course, students will be expected to create a film about the project that will be incorporated into a touchscreen museum display at WWU’s SEA Discovery Center, as well as University of Oregon Charleston Marine Life Center, and NC State’s Science House.
Students will gain valuable scientific skills working on this project, including molecular and quantitative skills. Besides required presentations at the conference, students will be encouraged to present their research on campus to further enhance their communication skills (for example, during WWU’s Scholars Week).
Additional funds are available to provide undergrads the opportunity to present their independent research at a national conference. This benefits the students in both engaging and networking with the scientific community as well as experience presenting scientific research to the public.
Eligibility
Open to WWU Biology, ESCI, MACS, or other related science majors undergrad students.
Preference for students that have at least one year remaining as an undergrad at WWU. First and second year students are encouraged to apply.
Students supported with NSF funds must be citizens or permanent residents of the United States.
The Arellano lab is committed to supporting students with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and needs.
How to Apply
Application package includes CV, unofficial transcripts and statements.
Statements should be 2 pages, 12-point font, 1.0-spaced. Statement should reflect the following points:
Statement of Interest: describe the areas of marine science that most interest you and your personal goals for the internship and beyond. (1 page max, 12pt font, single spaced)
What qualities and characteristics will you bring to the program because of your work/activities/other life experiences? (1/2-page max, 12pt font, single spaced)
Write about an experience of overcoming adversity or an obstacle in your life. (1/2-page max, 12pt font, single spaced)
Application packages should be submitted via email to Shawn Arellano: arellas@wwu.edu
Important Dates
Application due date May 31, 2021
Awardees notified June 7, 2021
Summer Course: June 22, 2021- July 30, 2021
REU term: Fall 2021 or half time option
Cruise dates: approximately November 2- 21, 2021
For more information about the project click here and here.
Master’s students wanted! I will be taking 1-2 new graduate students to work on either of my projects associated with symbiont-larval interactions at hydrothermal vents. You may read more about those projects here. In the larval lab, we particularly value diversity and providing excellent experiences to help you reach your goals. And most of all, you must be excited about larvae!
