While we started as a research focused organization, as we have grown we have been able to expand to include programs that provide research experience, offer continuing education on ecosystem-wide topics, and connect students and adults alike to our regional killer whales. Read below to learn what we’ve been up to and how you can get involved!
Students Training as Research Scientists (STaRS)
This year-long marine science program is a research experience we offer in partnership with The Salish Sea School. Open to high school students, each participant works with a specific Bigg’s killer whale family over the course of the year to learn about topics such as photo ID, mapping, graphing, and how to take scientific data in the field.
Through a combination of virtual lectures and in-person field trips on the water and on shore, students learn the thought processes and considerations that go into a taking a scientific project from the initial question through field work to analysis and presentation.
You can learn more about this program here. Enrollment for 2023 will begin in November 2022.
In 2023, we are also launching an adult version of this program aimed at increasing scientific literacy while providing a research experienced focusing on learning to understand and communicate scientific concepts.
The Pulse of the Salish Sea
Keep up with The Pulse of the Salish Sea through this continuing education program targeted at marine naturalists, environmental educators, and nature enthusiasts. Along with our partner organizations, we co-host a monthly series of lectures throughout the year covering a variety of ecosystem-wide topics throughout the Salish Sea. These talks are all virtual, so you can tune in from anywhere!
Designed for professionals and amateurs alike, the goal of this program is to take a deeper dive beyond introductory level talks to connect directly with scientists and experts in the field on everything from whales and birds to fish and climate change. While our annual session begins in January, you can enroll at any time and you will get access to the recordings from previous month’s lectures.
Learn more and sign up here.
Research Internships and Student Project Mentorship
We work with 1-3 student interns and/or field research assistants each year. Our primary need for field assistance is between May-September and we require a minimum two month commitment. In addition to field experience, interns can also receive mentorship for a thesis, school project, or independent research project during their placement.
In addition to formal internships, we can also work with students on research projects outside of our core field season, including providing access to OBI data. We can collaborate on a limited number of such projects each year and they are considered year-round on a case by case basis.
Find additional details about these opportunities and learn how to contact us here.