Super Science Summer Camp

by Kevin Smith Author

Summer camp is a time for discovery. You make new friends, try new activities, and, if you’re lucky enough to attend a science summer camp, you learn a lot about how the world works. Camp at the seaside can teach you a lot about the sea and the people who work in the marine environment.
Marine biologists study the behavior of marine plants and animals and how they interact with the aquatic environment, but that covers a lot of ground. Jobs in marine biology can be in conservation, academic research, private research or biotechnology.

Conservation

Work within the framework of public policy at both the local and federal level to identify environmental issues, like overfishing or coastal development, and develop solutions. Translate scientific information and educate the public. Potential employers: local and state municipalities, non-profit policy and conservation organizations and governmental agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Academia

Marine biology in an academic setting could involve either research or teaching, or a combination of the two. Most academic marine biologists will focus their study on a specific, narrow topic and work on that for years, in the lab and the field. Those that teach bring their passion to a new generation of students.

Private Sector

The ocean affects life in many ways, as a resource for raw materials, a farming site and a means of conveyance. Marine biologists in the private sector work on vaccines to make aquaculture healthier for fish, develop stronger structures for ports and harbors, and work to safeguard biodiversity and ecosystem integrity.

Biotechnology

The incredible diversity of marine life is a largely untapped resource for materials that can be used in pharmaceutics. By studying microorganisms and their environments, researchers can identify factors and compounds that can be synthesized. Chemistry, genetics, informatics and other focuses often come into play for marine biologists working in this field.

Science is not only about the discovery of new information, it also focuses on the correction and integration of previously gathered data. Getting an early understanding of the scientific method directs a person towards the right mindset for pursuing a career in marine biology; attending science summer camps is a great way to start that understanding. An ingrained sense of forming a hypothesis, doing research based on empirical evidence and coming to a reasoned conclusion will hold any student in good stead throughout their education and well into their career.