The College of Sciences Contributes to International Oceanic Research Expedition
We are proud to announce the participation of Dr. Erin Easton, assistant professor at the College of Sciences, in a groundbreaking scientific expedition led by Dr. Javier Sellanes López from the Faculty of Marine Sciences at the Universidad Católica del Norte (UCN).
The research team, including UCN marine biology students, is currently on a scientific cruise exploring submarine mountains in the Southeast Pacific. The expedition, running from January 8 to February 11, focuses on characterizing the biodiversity, oceanographic features, and topography of the Nazca and Juan Fernández ridges.
The UCN team is part of a diverse group of national and international researchers aboard the research vessel R/V Falkor, owned by the Schmidt Ocean Institute. This institute supports marine research by providing state-of-the-art assistance to projects in ocean science and technology.
The R/V Falkor, available for scientists year-round at no cost, is stationed in the Pacific Ocean for 2024, allowing the UCN team, including Dr. Erin Easton, to participate in two expeditions. Dr. Sellanes and Dr. Easton will serve as chief scientists for the first and second expeditions, respectively.
The UCN team, comprising researchers and undergraduate students, is contributing to the Biodiversity under the Threat of Climate Change (BiodUCCT) project, a winner of the ANID Research Rings Competition 2022, led by Dr. Javier Sellanes López.
The research cruise involves investigators from the United States, Russia, Australia, Portugal, and Chile, utilizing advanced oceanographic technology, including the SuBastian Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), capable of reaching depths of 4,500 meters.
Local observers and artists from Juan Fernández and Rapa Nui communities are participating, adding valuable perspectives to the expedition.
The College of Sciences is thrilled to be part of this collaborative international effort to advance marine science and contribute to our understanding of oceanic ecosystems.
For more information, read the full article at https://esmoi.ucn.cl/noticias/ucn-participa-en-expedicion-internacional-a-los-montes-submarinos
For livestreams and weekly updates on the cruise expedition, visit the Schmidt Ocean YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@SchmidtOcean