Student at the University of Hawaii at Hilo secures uncommon chance to join Nautilus submarine expedition
Ocean Science Intern Hayden Niles Explores Deep-Sea Habitats
Hayden Niles, a student at the University of Hawaii at Hilo, is currently embarking on an exciting deep-sea expedition aboard the Exploration Vessel Nautilus. This journey, led by the Ocean Exploration Trust, will take him from the Solomon Islands to the Marshall Islands from July 27 to Aug. 17.
Niles' love for the ocean was sparked by a Nintendo Wii video game, "Endless Ocean: Blue World." This fascination has grown into a lifelong adoration for the ocean and sustainable practices. As an Ocean Science Intern, Niles is collecting data and samples for scientific advancement, acting as a data logger by recording detailed scientific observations in real time during remotely operated vehicle (ROV) dives and assisting in processing biological and geological specimens in the ship’s wet lab.
The expedition aims to explore largely unmapped ocean areas around the 1,200 islands of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, helping to better understand deep-sea biology and geology in these habitats. The use of advanced technology like ROVs and environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis allows non-invasive profiling of deep-sea biodiversity, showcasing cutting-edge tools in ocean science and exploration.
Among the creatures Niles hopes to encounter is the rare strawberry squid. His work also serves a crucial role in supporting sustainable marine spatial planning in the Marshalls, balancing resource use with conservation in an area where much of the ocean has never been mapped or studied before.
Niles' work extends beyond the expedition, as he conducts educational seminars, particularly about cephalopods, for schools. Teaching elementary school children about cephalopods was one of the most meaningful talks he has given. Corals, which serve as a barometer for the ocean’s health and an indicator of the planet’s well-being, are also a focus of Niles' research.
The Ocean Exploration Trust, which was founded by Dr. Robert Ballard, oversees the internship program. Subscription is available for $10/month to access more detailed updates and insights from the expedition's source. To learn more about Hayden Niles' work, you can contact him via email at [email protected].
[1]: Data logging during deep-sea ROV explorations, processing biological and geological specimens onboard. [2]: Contributing to baseline ocean data collection critical for the sustainable management of marine resources in the Marshall Islands. [3]: Exploring and documenting deep-sea habitats and species using modern techniques like eDNA. [4]: Supporting broader environmental stewardship through scientific research and education.
- Hayden Niles, as a data logger on the Ocean Exploration Trust's expedition, records scientific observations during remotely operated vehicle (ROV) dives and assists in processing biological and geological specimens onboard.
- Niles' work in the Marshall Islands contributes to the collection of critical baseline ocean data, essential for the sustainable management of marine resources.
- During deep-sea ROV explorations, Niles and his team explore and document various deep-sea habitats and species using innovative techniques such as environmental DNA (eDNA).
- Beyond the expedition, Niles takes part in educational seminars, primarily focusing on cephalopods and corals, to foster a broader environmental stewardship through scientific research and education.
- Corals, integral indicators of ocean health and the planet's well-being, are a significant part of Niles' research in the realm of education and self-development.
- In addition to his work with the Ocean Exploration Trust, subscribers can access more detailed updates and insights from the expedition through a monthly subscription of $10.
- For more information about Hayden Niles' work, his email contact is [email protected], allowing individuals to learn about his contributions to sustainable living, climate-change, environmental-science, education, home-and-garden, technology, and lifelong learning.
