towards deeper understanding monterey bay aquarium research institute

History and Mission

MBARI was founded by David Packard, co-founder of Hewlett-Packard, with the goal of creating a world-class oceanographic research institution that would leverage advanced technology to explore and study the oceans in ways that were previously impossible. Packard’s vision was to create an institute that would bridge the gap between the marine sciences and engineering, bringing together experts from diverse fields to tackle complex oceanographic challenges.

Since its inception, MBARI’s mission has been to achieve and maintain excellence in advanced research and education in ocean science and technology, and to do so through the development of better instruments, systems, and methods for scientific research in the deep waters of the ocean. This mission is guided by the institute’s core values of innovation, collaboration, excellence, and stewardship.

Research Areas and Programs

MBARI’s research spans a wide range of disciplines, from marine biology and ecology to geology, chemistry, and physics. The institute’s research programs are organized around three main themes:

1. Ocean Processes and Ecosystems: This program focuses on understanding the complex physical, chemical, and biological processes that shape marine ecosystems, from the surface to the deep sea. Researchers study topics such as ocean circulation, nutrient cycling, primary production, and the impacts of climate change on marine life.

2. Seafloor and Subseafloor Processes: This program investigates the geological and geochemical processes that occur on and beneath the seafloor, including plate tectonics, volcanic activity, hydrothermal vents, and the formation of mineral deposits. Researchers also study the microbial communities that thrive in these extreme environments.

3. Ocean Technology and Engineering: This program develops and applies innovative technologies to advance our understanding of the oceans. Researchers design and build autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and other cutting-edge instruments and platforms for ocean exploration and monitoring.

In addition to these core research programs, MBARI also has several cross-cutting initiatives that bring together researchers from different disciplines to address complex oceanographic challenges. These initiatives include:

• Climate Change and Ocean Acidification: This initiative studies the impacts of climate change and ocean acidification on marine ecosystems, from the surface to the deep sea. Researchers use a variety of approaches, including field observations, laboratory experiments, and computer modeling, to understand how marine life is responding to these global environmental changes.

• Midwater Ecology: This initiative focuses on the largest and least explored habitat on Earth: the midwater zone, which extends from the surface to the seafloor. Researchers use advanced technologies, such as ROVs and in situ samplers, to study the diverse and abundant communities of organisms that inhabit this vast realm.

• Bioluminescence and Vision: This initiative investigates the remarkable adaptations of marine organisms that produce and perceive light in the dark depths of the ocean. Researchers study the biochemistry, physiology, and ecology of bioluminescent organisms, as well as the visual systems and behaviors of their predators and prey.

Technology and Infrastructure

One of the keys to MBARI’s success has been its commitment to developing and deploying advanced technology for ocean research. The institute has a world-class engineering team that designs and builds custom instruments and platforms for a wide range of applications, from deep-sea exploration to long-term monitoring of ocean conditions.

Some of MBARI’s most notable technological achievements include:

• Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs): MBARI has developed several AUVs, including the Dorado and the Tethys, which can operate independently for weeks or months at a time, collecting data on ocean conditions and marine life. These vehicles have been used for a variety of missions, from mapping the seafloor to tracking harmful algal blooms.

• Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs): MBARI operates several ROVs, including the Doc Ricketts and the Ventana, which are used for deep-sea exploration and sampling. These vehicles are equipped with high-definition cameras, manipulator arms, and a variety of sensors and samplers, allowing researchers to study the ocean in unprecedented detail.

• Environmental Sample Processors (ESPs): MBARI has developed a series of ESPs, which are automated instruments that can collect and analyze water samples in situ, without the need for human intervention. These devices have been used to study a wide range of oceanographic phenomena, from harmful algal blooms to deep-sea microbial communities.

• MBARI Ocean Observing System (MOOS): The MOOS is a network of moored and mobile platforms that continuously monitor ocean conditions in Monterey Bay and beyond. The system includes buoys, gliders, and other instruments that measure physical, chemical, and biological parameters, providing researchers with a comprehensive view of the marine environment.

In addition to these cutting-edge technologies, MBARI also has a state-of-the-art research facility in Moss Landing, which includes laboratories, workshops, and a dock for its research vessels. The institute also operates the R/V Western Flyer, a 117-foot research vessel that serves as a platform for ROV operations and other oceanographic research.

Partnerships and Outreach

MBARI recognizes that addressing the complex challenges facing the oceans requires collaboration and partnerships across disciplines and institutions. The institute has a long history of working with other research organizations, government agencies, and industry partners to advance our understanding of the marine environment.

Some of MBARI’s key partnerships include:

• Monterey Bay Aquarium: MBARI has a close partnership with the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which is located just a few miles from the institute’s headquarters. The two organizations collaborate on research, education, and outreach activities, including the development of exhibits and programs that showcase the wonders of the ocean.

• National Science Foundation (NSF): MBARI receives significant funding from the NSF, which supports a wide range of research projects and initiatives at the institute. MBARI researchers also participate in several NSF-funded research programs, such as the Ocean Observatories Initiative and the Long-Term Ecological Research Network.

• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA): MBARI works closely with NOAA on a variety of research and monitoring projects, including studies of ocean acidification, harmful algal blooms, and deep-sea ecosystems. The institute also collaborates with NOAA on the development and deployment of ocean observing systems.

• Industry Partners: MBARI has partnerships with several industry partners, including technology companies, oil and gas firms, and environmental consulting firms. These partnerships allow the institute to leverage its expertise and technologies to address real-world challenges and develop new applications for ocean research.

In addition to these partnerships, MBARI also has a strong commitment to education and outreach. The institute offers a variety of programs and resources for students, educators, and the general public, including:

• Summer Internship Program: MBARI offers a competitive summer internship program for undergraduate and graduate students interested in ocean science and technology. Interns work alongside MBARI researchers on a variety of projects, gaining hands-on experience and mentorship.

• Educator Resources: MBARI provides a range of resources for educators, including lesson plans, videos, and interactive tools that can be used to teach students about the ocean and marine science. The institute also offers professional development workshops for teachers.

• Public Outreach: MBARI engages with the public through a variety of outreach activities, including public lectures, open houses, and social media. The institute also collaborates with the Monterey Bay Aquarium on exhibits and programs that showcase the wonders of the ocean and the importance of ocean conservation.

FAQs

1. What is the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI)?
   MBARI is a non-profit oceanographic research institution located in Moss Landing, California. The institute was founded in 1987 by David Packard, co-founder of Hewlett-Packard, with the goal of advancing our understanding of the ocean through cutting-edge research and technology development.

2. What kind of research does MBARI conduct?
   MBARI conducts research across a wide range of disciplines, including marine biology, ecology, geology, chemistry, and physics. The institute’s research programs are organized around three main themes: Ocean Processes and Ecosystems, Seafloor and Subseafloor Processes, and Ocean Technology and Engineering.

3. What technologies does MBARI use for ocean research?
   MBARI develops and deploys a variety of advanced technologies for ocean research, including autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), environmental sample processors (ESPs), and ocean observing systems. These technologies allow researchers to study the ocean in unprecedented detail and scale.

4. How does MBARI collaborate with other organizations?
   MBARI has partnerships with a variety of research institutions, government agencies, and industry partners, including the Monterey Bay Aquarium, the National Science Foundation, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and several technology and environmental consulting firms. These partnerships allow the institute to leverage its expertise and resources to address complex oceanographic challenges.

5. What educational and outreach activities does MBARI offer?
   MBARI offers a summer internship program for undergraduate and graduate students, provides resources for educators, and engages with the public through lectures, open houses, and social media. The institute also collaborates with the Monterey Bay Aquarium on exhibits and programs that showcase the wonders of the ocean and the importance of ocean conservation.

Conclusion

The Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute is a world-class oceanographic research institution that is pushing the boundaries of our understanding of the marine environment. Through its innovative research programs, cutting-edge technologies, and collaborative partnerships, MBARI is advancing our knowledge of the complex physical, chemical, and biological processes that shape the ocean and its ecosystems.

As we face growing challenges such as climate change, ocean acidification, and habitat loss, the work of institutions like MBARI has never been more important. By continuing to invest in ocean research and technology development, we can deepen our understanding of this vital resource and develop strategies for protecting and sustaining it for future generations.

Through its research, technology development, partnerships, and outreach activities, MBARI is helping to deepen our understanding of the ocean and inspire the next generation of ocean scientists and stewards. As we continue to explore and study this vast and complex realm, the work of institutions like MBARI will be essential for unlocking its secrets and ensuring its health and vitality for generations to come.