General Information

Undersea Explorer
Undersea Explorer is a live aboard scuba diving operation, which combines adventure diving with authentic marine research and education. We undertake, facilitate and promote research which contributes to knowledge and conservation of marine ecosystems, as well as creating informative and adventure experiences for divers. Research on Undersea Explorer ranges from social-economical to biological and physical, and has had varied interests (e.g. minke whales, sharks, octopus, nautilus, corals, water quality, diver impacts, tourism guidelines) The crew includes a marine scientist and research activities fit around the diving program, adding a stimulating atmosphere of discovery to all expeditions. Now we are interested in promoting new research directions as well as building on present achievements and hope to welcome new researchers to Undersea's group of friends.

Research Proposals for Undersea Explorer
Researchers are invited to apply for sea time to undertake fieldwork aboard Undersea Explorer. Proposals from many backgrounds are welcome (e.g. marine biology, tourism, photography or film making, oceanography, socio-economical), nonetheless the theme should relate to marine science, management or conservation. One or two weeks sea time would generally be considered, including food and diving costs, with possibilities for more sea time or assistance being considered according to the merit of proposals and project progress.

Application Procedure
To apply submit the following to info@undersea.com.au using the email subject heading of
"Undersea Explorer - ACRS Award":

1. a completed application form,
   available online (click here) or PDF format (click here to print or save)
    

2. A brief curriculum vitae to give an indication of research experience and ability to undertake the proposed project, including scuba diving certification if applicable.
    

3. A short covering letter for your application

Application Guidelines

• Applicants are advised to familiarise with Undersea Explorer's annual schedule and the nature of expeditions. Note that vessel spaces are less available during high season and Far Northern Section trips.

• Researchers are advised to communicate with Undersea Explorer so that we can advise firstly of complementary research that may already be in place and secondly on logistics.

• Applicants should bear in mind that the vessel voyages rarely allow for more than one dive at each site on any one trip, however night dives are usually carried out at sites visited in daylight. Many sites are visited repeatedly on consecutive trips.

• Limited amounts of project maintenance or safeguarding are possible year round by Undersea Explorer's crew and marine biologist. Written guidelines should be provided when this need arises.

• Minimal impact activities (e.g. sample collection) will be preferred due to the presence of tourists on the vessel and in the water at the times work can be undertaken.

• Consider the additional manpower (e.g. volunteer assistant) required for projects involving diving; crew availability as a dive buddy will be limited (i.e. not all of the 4 daily dives).

• Accompaniment of a volunteer will be subject to space availability and attract a fee to contribute towards the extra person's food costs.

• Passenger willingness or ability to participate is an unknown factor, and general reliance on passengers for fieldwork is discouraged. However, information may be sought from passengers by means of questionnaires.

Conditions of Researcher Invitation
Invited researchers will be required to:

1. Present a 20-40 minute oral presentation related to their research whilst onboard Undersea Explorer,

2. Provide Undersea Explorer information relative to the outcomes of the project in the form of a short report, letter or poster which may be published on the Undersea Explorer. A poster would be preferred as it is a good means of communicating results to future passengers.

3. Facilitate to Undersea Explorer copies of published material materialising from the project.

4. Follow safety regulations related to boating, diving or other water related activities that are established by the university or institution to which the researcher is related.

Further Information:

Enquiries regarding the proposed research onboard Undersea Explorer can be sent to info@undersea.com.au using the email subject heading of "Undersea Explorer - research proposal".