\"PhotoBecause we know so little about the polar marine ecosystems, the most natural way to develop a career in Polar Marine Biology is through graduate study with investigators such as those on this cruise. However, there are many other ways to get involved in these activities. For example, Sandra Parker, Dr. Detrich’s Technician, joined his laboratory 15 years ago because she was intrigued by the opportunity to conduct both laboratory- and field-based research on polar marine organisms that live under extreme conditions. “I was really excited by the chance to work in Antarctica and contribute to our understanding of this absolutely unique ecosystem. Frankly, I had never thought about going to, much less working in, Antarctica until I saw the posting for Dr. Detrich’s Technician position.”

Another route to developing a career in Polar Marine Biology is to volunteer to join a research program at your university. Many undergraduates have experienced an epiphany while on such projects and gone on to develop careers in various polar fields. “Antarctica does that to you,” says Sandra. “Each time I go to Palmer Station (now eight), I am overwhelmed by the natural beauty and I feel that I am making a positive impact in polar science.”

"; include_once("../../includes/template.php"); ?>