2025 DeSSC New User Program
Applications for the DeSSC New Users Program are now being accepted
Deadline Friday 6 December 2024
(Financial support for travel is available.)
We invite postdoctoral researchers and early to mid-career faculty based in the United States to participate in a specialized workshop to facilitate their development of federally-funded research programs utilizing deep-submergence assets. This 2.5-day workshop will take place at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution from February 11 to February 13, 2024. Applications for travel and lodging support will be accepted until Friday, December 6, 2024.
DEADLINE EXTENDED! Friday, December 13, 2024 is the new deadline!
Background
The Deep Submergence Science Committee (DeSSC) provides essential guidance for the use of key assets from the National Deep Submergence Facility (NDSF), including the Human Occupied Vehicle (HOV) Alvin, the Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) Jason 2, and the Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) Sentry. A primary role of the DeSSC is to act as a conduit for the deep submergence community, ensuring maximum participation in the utilization of these critical assets. Additionally, the DeSSC is responsible for promoting the development of new technologies for Alvin, ROVs, and AUVs to maintain the National Facility's cutting-edge capabilities.
The DeSSC collaborates with the user community, federal sponsors, and the NDSF operator to encourage deep submergence research. Furthermore, the DeSSC will promote the advancement of cooperative programs aimed at enhancing multidisciplinary submersible science within the academic community.
2025 DeSSC New Users Program
The DeSSC is committed to increasing the involvement of the U.S. scientific community in deep-sea research. The New Users Program is a workshop that aims to:
- Introduce early career scientists or other new users of deep-submergence assets to DeSSC, NDSF, federal agency representatives, and other deep-submergence facility operators.
- Engage participants in DeSSC advisory activities.
- Provide training and mentoring for developing research programs utilizing NDSF and other deep-sea vehicles.
- Facilitate networking opportunities with scientists and vehicle operators actively engaged in deep-sea facility-supported research.
This NSF-sponsored workshop will feature experienced deep-sea scientists, vehicle operators, and federal representatives sharing their expertise on available research opportunities, funding mechanisms, cruise planning, and data management. Participants will also be involved in the 2025 DeSSC Community Meeting. The annual DeSSC Community Meeting serves as an open forum for scientists and engineers to discuss scientific discoveries, technical advancements, and share insights within the NDSF and other deep submergence operations.
Schedule
- February 11: DeSSC New User Program
- February 12 (AM): DeSSC New User Program
- February 12 (PM): 2025 DeSSC Community Meeting (New Users will attend)
- February 13 (AM): Conclude DeSSC New User Program (completion by noon)
A networking dinner on February 11 will provide participants the opportunity to interact with vehicle operators, agency sponsors, and current users of deep-submergence science facilities. Participants are required to attend the entire workshop. Expected travel for the conference - arrive at WHOI 10Feb, depart WHOI for home the afternoon of 13Feb.
Application Process
To apply for the DeSSC New Users Program, please complete the online application form at: Application Form. For inquiries, please contact Alice Doyle at alice@unols.org. The application deadline is Friday, December 6, 2024.