ucsd phd marine biology

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Ph.D. Program

The philosophy of the PhD program, along with the Affiliated Ph.D.  Program with the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, is to provide world-class research training in the basic biological sciences to equip a diverse group of trainees for a variety of scientific careers ranging from academia and industry to education, communication, or policy. Core principles of the program are to be student centered and attuned to the goals of the trainee.

The core curriculum focuses on development of core competencies and transferable skills in critical thinking, communication, and leadership. The first year prepares students for the core of the PhD program, the development of intellectual independence and creativity through original thesis research, guided by a thesis advisor and committee. Students have a high degree of flexibility in choice of thesis advisor through the rotation program. Throughout the program, there is strong emphasis on engaged mentoring through regular committee meetings, annual reports and Individual Development Plans.

As a central hub of the thriving San Diego biosciences community, the program maintains strong partnerships with other campus units and programs through joint faculty appointments, organized research units, and research collaborations, enabling a wide range of interdisciplinary opportunities . The mission is to conduct leading edge research in the basic biological sciences. Major areas of emphasis currently include structural biology, cell biology, developmental biology, neurobiology, immunology, microbiology, virology, plant biology, ecology, and evolutionary biology. Research in the School has emphasized studies using model organisms or in vitro mechanistic approaches, with human studies and clinical research concentrated in other departments or in the Health Sciences. Current and future areas of growth include quantitative biology, data science, and the biological consequences of climate change.

• Rigor, reproducibility, and responsibility as hallmarks of high-quality science
• Commitment to quality mentorships, student mental health, and well-being
• Equity, Diversity and Inclusion as integral to program admissions and retention
• Open science practices valuing multiple research outputs and holistic assessment of scholarly excellence
• Communication and outreach as key aspects of scientific training

As a doctoral program embedded in a large undergraduate instructional unit, our approach incorporates substantial training in teaching methodology and best practices. Our philosophy remains that teaching and research are interdependent facets of engaged scholarship.

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Scripps Institution of Oceanography

[ graduate program | courses | faculty ]

UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION Galbraith Hall 368 https://scripps.ucsd.edu/undergrad

All courses, faculty listings, and curricular and degree requirements described herein are subject to change or deletion without notice.

Introduction

Scripps Institution of Oceanography is one of the oldest, largest, and most important centers for marine science research, education, and public service in the world. Its preeminence in the marine sciences is reflective of its excellent programs, distinguished faculty and research scientists, and outstanding facilities. Scripps Institution was founded in 1903 as an independent biological research laboratory, which became an integral part of the University of California in 1912. At that time, the laboratory was given the Scripps name in recognition of donors Ellen Browning Scripps and E. W. Scripps. Today, research and education at Scripps encompasses physical, chemical, biological, geological, and geophysical studies of the ocean, earth, and atmosphere, and Scripps is at the forefront of modern climate change science and education. Among the hundreds of research programs that may be under way at any one time are studies of air-sea interaction, climate prediction, earthquakes, the physiology of marine organisms, the geological history of the ocean basins, and multidisciplinary aspects of global change and the environment.

The Undergraduate Program

The Scripps Institution of Oceanography Department offers over seventy-five undergraduate courses covering a wide breadth of earth and marine sciences on several different levels. There are several introductory classes for nonmajors, and upper-division courses intended for a wide range of students in natural science majors. Scripps Institution of Oceanography offers a BS in marine biology, a BS in geosciences, a BS in oceanic and atmospheric sciences, minors in geosciences and marine science, and contiguous BS/MS programs in earth sciences, marine biology, and oceanography. Scripps Institution of Oceanography is also the academic home for the interdisciplinary environmental systems major and the climate change studies minor. See the Environmental Systems Program and the Climate Change Studies Program listings in this catalog for more information on those majors and minors.

Marine Biology Major

Program Director : Ryan Hechinger, Professor, Marine Biology, Scripps Institution of Oceanography

The Scripps Institution of Oceanography offers an undergraduate major program in marine biology, resulting in a BS. Undergraduates in this major will develop an understanding of the biology of marine organisms and the biological and physical processes that affect these organisms, their populations, and their coastal and oceanic ecosystems. The major requires a foundation in the natural sciences, a rigorous core of marine biology courses and a unifying laboratory/field course that engages students more directly in the discovery process and in analyzing and interpreting data. Majors select electives from a growing set of upper-division Scripps Oceanography courses in marine biology and related disciplines. The marine biology curriculum takes advantage of UC San Diego’s unique physical location along the Pacific Ocean. Laboratory work and field trips to intertidal zones, salt marshes, and other marine ecosystems are important components of the instructional program.

Ocean sciences are relevant to many contemporary environmental issues and problems and central to understanding earth-system evolution, dynamics, climate and sustainability. A major in marine biology is an appropriate start for students who are seeking a career or graduate studies in marine biology and related biological disciplines, a career in fields such as marine conservation, or simply interested in the major to broaden their base of knowledge and experience in the biological sciences. Program advisers and faculty can provide additional information on career and graduate school opportunities. It is strongly recommended that all marine biology majors meet regularly with academic advising staff in the Scripps Institution of Oceanography Undergraduate Education Office in Galbraith Hall and with the marine biology faculty adviser to discuss and update curriculum choices.

Students must receive a grade of C– or higher in any course to be counted toward fulfillment of the major requirements (with the exception of SIO 90 and SIO 139, which are only offered on a P/NP basis). One quarter of SIO 199 credit (four units) may be used as a restricted elective but does not satisfy a laboratory course requirement.

Lower-Division Requirements

MATH 10A-B-C or 20A-B-C

CHEM 6A-B-C, 7L

PHYS 1A+1AL, 1B+1BL, 1C+1CL or 2A-B-C

BILD 1. The Cell

BILD 2. Multicellular Life

BILD 3. Organismic and Evolutionary Biology

SIO 90. Undergraduate Seminar: Perspectives on Ocean Sciences

Upper-Division Requirements

• Marine Biology Core (all courses required) SIO 132. Introduction to Marine Biology SIO 134. Introduction to Biological Oceanography SIO 181. Marine Biochemistry SIO 136. Marine Biology Laboratory SIO 139. Current Research in Marine Biology Colloquium
• Biology Core Courses (all courses required) SIO 187. Statistical Methods in Marine Biology BICD 100. Genetics
• Oceans Physics and Chemistry Requirement SIO 119. Physics and Chemistry of the Oceans
• Restricted Electives (at least five of the following; two must be indicated as laboratory courses) SIO 101. California Coastal Oceanography (Lab) SIO 104. Paleobiology and History of Life (Lab) or SIO 148. Evolution of Earth’s Biosphere (Lab) SIO 121. Biology of the Cryosphere SIO 122. Ecological Developmental Biology SIO 123. Microbial Environmental Systems Biology SIO 124. Marine Natural Products SIO 125. Biomechanics of Marine Life  SIO 126. Marine Microbiology SIO 127. Marine Molecular Ecology SIO 128. Microbial Life in Extreme Environments SIO 129. Marine Chemical Ecology SIO 131. Parasitology (Lab) SIO 133. Marine Mammal Biology SIO 137. Ecosystems and Fisheries SIO 138. The Coral Reef Environment SIO 145. Introduction to Field Methods in Biological Oceanography (Lab) SIO 146. Methods in Cell and Developmental Biology of Marine Organisms (Lab) SIO 147. Applications of Phylogenetics (Lab) SIO 183. Phycology: Biology of Marine Plants (Lab) SIO 184. Marine Invertebrates (Lab) SIO 185. Marine Microbiology Lab (Lab) SIO 186. Microbiomes across Environments (Lab) SIO 188. Biology of Fishes (Lab) SIO 189. Pollution, Environment, and Health BIBC 103. Biochemical Techniques Lab (Lab) BIBC 102. Metabolic Biochemistry BIEB 102. Introduction to Ecology BIEB 150. Evolution SIO 199. Independent Study for Undergraduates

Oceanic and Atmospheric Sciences Major

Program Director : Joel Norris, Professor, Climate Science, Scripps Institution of Oceanography

Undergraduates in the oceanic and atmospheric sciences major will develop an understanding of the fundamental physics and chemistry governing the ocean and atmosphere. The major engages students in a wide range of topics of scientific interest and increasing social concern including ocean waves, tides and circulation, natural climate variability including El Niño, human-caused climate change, global warming, ocean acidification, atmospheric storms, and oceanic eddies. Students will acquire the tools to address these topics through basic knowledge of the fluid dynamics and chemical principles relevant to the ocean and atmosphere. Drawing on the expertise at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, the curriculum includes modern approaches to data collection in the ocean and atmosphere and the analysis of the resulting big data sets.

The oceanic and atmospheric sciences curriculum takes advantage of the unique opportunities at Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Classes beyond the introductory level are usually small, permitting personalized instruction, yet with access to the resources of a large research university. There are abundant opportunities for undergraduates to work alongside faculty, staff, and graduate students on research applications, both observational and theoretical. The major is interdisciplinary by nature and has close connections to courses and research applications in physics, chemistry, engineering, earth sciences, and environmental systems.

A degree in oceanic and atmospheric sciences is an appropriate start for a broad range of career and graduate school opportunities in various areas, including research, government, state and federal survey jobs, environmental management and consulting, ocean sciences, industrial institutions, elementary or secondary education, environmental policy, or environmental law. Program advisers and faculty can provide additional information on career and graduate school opportunities. This flexibility in the major is afforded by a wide array of restricted electives that allow students a degree of autonomy to design much of their program. Career-track examples with restricted electives and faculty advising are provided to assist students in their optimal career-development track within the flexible curriculum.

The oceanic and atmospheric sciences curriculum is rigorous and quantitative. Lower-division requirements are designed to provide the foundations in mathematics, physics, and chemistry that are essential in modern quantitative applications in the field. These lower-division courses are the only prerequisites for the SIO courses central to the major (Groups A and B, below). Other upper-division electives (Group C) may have additional prerequisites. In planning their major, students should check catalog course descriptions carefully and should meet with advising staff. It is strongly recommended that all oceanic and atmospheric science majors meet regularly with the academic advising staff in the SIO undergraduate education office in Galbraith Hall and faculty advisers in the major to discuss and update curriculum choices.

Students must receive a grade of C– or better in any course to be counted toward fulfillment of the major requirements. In exceptional cases, students with a grade point average in the major of 2.5 or greater may petition to have one grade of D accepted. All courses (lower and upper division) required for the major must be taken for a letter grade. Additionally, one quarter of SIO 199 credit (four units, P/NP) may be used as a Group C elective.

MATH 20A-B-C-D-E and MATH 18

PHYS 2A, 2B+2BL, 2C+2CL

PHYS 4 series is also accepted (instead of the PHYS 2 series) and is recommended for students with research interests in physical oceanography or the physics of the atmosphere.

SIO 60. Experiences in Oceanic and Atmospheric Sciences (4)

Group A: Core Courses

(all courses required)

SIO 171. Introduction to Physical Oceanography (4)

SIO 172. Physics of the Atmosphere (4)

SIO 174. Chemistry of the Ocean and Atmosphere (4)

Group B: Upper-Division Restricted Electives

(choose at least four of the following)

SIO 111. Ocean Waves and Tides (4)

SIO 117. The Physical Basis of Global Warming (4)

SIO 141. Chemical Principles of Marine Systems (4)

SIO 143. Ocean Acidification (4)

SIO 173. Dynamics of Atmosphere and Climate (4)

SIO 175. Analysis of Oceanic and Atmospheric Data (4)

SIO 176. Observational Physical Oceanography (4)

SIO 177. Fluid Dynamics (4)

SIO 178. Geophysical Fluid Dynamics (4)

Group C: Upper-Division Electives

(choose at least five of the following)

Students may use any additional course(s) from the restricted electives list (Group B, above) as a Group C elective.

SIO 101. California Coastal Oceanography (4)

SIO 108. Introduction to Paleoclimatology (4)

SIO 110. Introduction to GIS and GPS for Scientists (4)

SIO 113. Introduction to Computational Earth Sciences (4)

SIO 115. Ice and the Climate System (4)

SIO 134. Introduction to Biological Oceanography (4)

SIO 135. Satellite Remote Sensing (4)

SIO 160. Introduction to Tectonics (4)

SIO 179. Ocean Instruments and Sensors (4)

SIO 199. Independent Study for Undergraduates (4)

CHEM 130. Chemical Physics: Quantum Mechanics (4)

CHEM 131. Chemical Physics: Stat Thermo I (4)

CHEM 132. Chemical Physics: Stat Thermo II (4)

CHEM 171. Environmental Chemistry I (4)

CHEM 173. Atmospheric Chemistry (4)

MATH 110A. Introduction to Partial Differential Equations (4)

MATH 120A. Elements of Complex Analysis (4)

MATH 120B. Applied Complex Analysis (4)

MATH 180A. Introduction to Probability (4)

PHYS 110A. Mechanics (4)

PHYS 110B. Mechanics (4)

PHYS 140A. Statistical and Thermal Physics I (4)

PHYS 140B. Statistical and Thermal Physics II (4)

MAE 101A. Introductory Fluid Mechanics (4)

CENG 101A. Introductory Fluid Mechanics (4)

Career-Track Examples

The oceanic and atmospheric sciences curriculum is designed to be flexible and can be tailored to student interests and needs in consultation with academic and faculty advisers. The following are suggested career paths for graduate school and/or employment in oceanic and atmospheric sciences. Note: These recommendations are intended to guide students in concert with academic and faculty advising. They are not requirements; the formal requirements for the major are listed above.

Physical Oceanography Track —Recommended lower-division preparation and electives for students with an interest in physical aspects of the ocean. This level of preparation is particularly recommended for students with the goal of pursuing graduate school and research careers in physical oceanography and related fields.

Suggested Four-Year Program of Instruction for a Physical Oceanography Track

Physics of the Atmosphere Track— Recommended lower-division preparation and electives for students with an interest in the physical aspects of the atmosphere. This level of preparation is particularly recommended for students with the goal of pursuing graduate school and careers in atmospheric sciences and related fields.

Suggested Four-Year Program of Instruction for a Physics of the Atmosphere Track

Chemistry of the Ocean and Atmosphere Track— Recommended lower-division preparation and electives for students with an interest in chemical systems in the ocean and atmosphere. This level of preparation is particularly recommended for students with the goal of pursuing graduate school and research careers in aqueous or atmospheric chemistry.

Suggested Four-Year Program of Instruction for a Chemistry of the Ocean and Atmosphere Track

Geosciences Major

Program Director: Katherine Barbeau, Professor, Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry, Scripps Institution of Oceanograph y

The geosciences encompass broad scientific study of the origin and evolution of the Earth and its life forms. The geosciences major embraces a wide range of topics, including the physical and chemical evolution of our planet, the evolution of life, the causes of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, near-surface processes, the origin and behavior of the oceans and atmosphere, and the impact of humans on the environment. Earth science investigations are increasingly quantitative and experimental, and thus most upper-division courses require a strong foundation in chemistry, physics, and mathematics.

The geosciences curriculum takes advantage of the unique opportunities offered by Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Classes beyond the introductory level are usually small, permitting personalized instruction. Field trips are an important part of the instructional program.

A degree in geosciences is an appropriate start for a broad range of career and graduate school opportunities in various areas, including research, government, state and federal survey jobs, environmental management, the petroleum and mining industries, consulting, ocean sciences, industrial institutions, elementary or secondary education, environmental policy, or environmental law. Program advisers and faculty can provide additional information on career and graduate school opportunities. This flexibility in the major is afforded by a wide array of restricted electives that allow students a degree of autonomy to design much of their program. Areas of concentration with restricted electives and faculty advising are provided to assist students in their optimal career-development track within the flexible curriculum.

All geoscience majors take a series of introductory courses, SIO 50, SIO 65, and SIO 75, and lower-division requirements in mathematics, physics, and chemistry that are essential in modern quantitative earth science disciplines, before moving on to five upper-division courses introducing basic concepts in the earth sciences, SIO 100, SIO 102, SIO 103, SIO 113, and SIO 120. Ideally lower-division course requirements and SIO 100 and SIO 102 should be taken before the junior year to provide the appropriate background for other upper-division courses.

It is strongly recommended that all geoscience majors meet regularly with the Scripps academic advising staff in the Scripps Institution of Oceanography Undergraduate Education Office in Galbraith Hall and geosciences faculty to discuss and make curriculum choices.

A grade point average of 2.0 or higher in the upper-division major program is required for graduation. Students must receive a grade of C– or better in any course to be counted toward fulfillment of the major requirements. In exceptional cases, students with a grade point average in the major of 2.5 or greater may petition to have one grade of D accepted. All courses (lower and upper division) required for the major must be taken for a letter grade.

Special Studies Courses

Special studies in the geosciences are offered as the courses SIO 198 and SIO 199. These courses are subject to consent of the instructor and approval by the faculty adviser. They are open to students who have accrued at least ninety quarter-units and have a GPA of at least 3.0. One quarter of SIO 199 studies may be counted toward the geosciences major electives.

MATH 20A-B-C

PHYS 2A-B-C (or 4A-B-C)

CHEM 6A-B-C

SIO 50. Introduction to Physical Geology

SIO 65. Geosciences Seminar

SIO 75. Geological History of the Earth

Upper-Division Core Requirements

(All courses are required.)

SIO 100. Geological Field Methods

SIO 102. Introduction to Geochemistry

SIO 103. Introduction to Geophysics

SIO 113. Computing and Data Analysis in Geoscience

SIO 120. Mineralogy

Upper-Division Electives: Area of Concentration

(Choose a total of seven classes from the areas of concentration detailed below. A minimum of four of the seven courses must be taken from a single area of concentration.)

Geology: SIO 104, SIO 105, SIO 106, SIO 110, SIO 121GS, SIO 144, SIO 152, SIO 153, SIO 155, SIO 160, SIO 162, SIO 170, SIO 199

Geological Oceanography: SIO 101, SIO 111, SIO 117, SIO 119, SIO 135, SIO 138, SIO 141, SIO 143, SIO 144, SIO 160, SIO 171, SIO 199

Environmental Geology: SIO 106, SIO 107, SIO 108, SIO 110, SIO 115, SIO 135, SIO 144, SIO 153, SIO 162, SIO 164, SIO 166, SIO 167, SIO 182, SIO 199

Geophysics: SIO 110, SIO 112, SIO 115, SIO 135, SIO 152, SIO 155, SIO 160, SIO 161, SIO 162, SIO 170, SIO 182, SIO 199

An example schedule is outlined below.

Honors Program

The Honors Program at Scripps Institution of Oceanography is offered for a limited number of students who have demonstrated excellence in any Scripps major. Students are eligible for admission to the program when they have

• Completed ninety units of courses including twelve units of upper-division course work in their major (earth sciences, marine biology or oceanic and atmospheric sciences).
• Achieved a GPA of 3.3 overall and 3.5 in the major.
• Submitted to the appropriate Undergraduate Education Steering Committee, and had approved, an honors thesis research proposal.

Successful completion of the Honors Program requires

• Maintenance of a GPA of 3.3 overall and 3.5 in the major.
• Completion, with a B grade or higher, of a minimum of eight units of SIO 196 related to the honors thesis research, distributed over at least two quarters. These units must be in addition to the ordinary major requirements. However, students who subsequently fail to complete the Honors Program may apply up to four of these 196 units to their major.
• Acceptance of a written honors thesis report by a committee of not fewer than three faculty members.
• Satisfactory presentation of an oral report on the thesis research, preferably at a public undergraduate research conference on campus, or at a professional conference. Alternatively, the oral report may be given at a seminar involving honors students and at least three faculty members.

Students who successfully complete the Honors Program will graduate With High Distinction.

Students who are interested in the Honors Program should contact the program adviser in Galbraith Hall, Room 368, Revelle College.

(See Scripps Institution of Oceanography graduate program for information on the “ Contiguous Bachelor’s/Master’s Earth Sciences Degree Program .”)

Geosciences Minor

The Scripps Institution of Oceanography offers an undergraduate minor program in geosciences. The geoscience minor can complement a wide variety of disciplinary majors, is relevant to many contemporary environmental issues and problems, and is central to understanding Earth-system evolution, dynamics, climate, resource management, natural disasters, clean air and water, marine and coastal systems, and sustainability.

The minor in geosciences consists of thirty units of course work, at least twenty of which must be upper division. Up to two courses for the minor may be taken on a Pass/No Pass basis (upper or lower division). Students must earn a letter grade of at least C– in the remaining five or more courses used for the minor.

SIO 50. Introduction to Physical Geology (six units)

SIO 75. Geological History of the Earth (four units)

SIO 65. Geosciences Seminar (two units) RECOMMENDED

At least five courses from the list (below) of upper-division electives:

SIO 104. Paleobiology and History of Life

SIO 105. Sedimentology and Stratigraphy

SIO 106. Hydrogeology

SIO 107. Water Pollution

SIO 108. Paleoclimatology

SIO 109. Bending the Curve: Climate Change Solutions

SIO 110. Introduction to GIS and GPS

SIO 112. Computational Tools and Data Science in Geophysics

SIO 115. Ice and the Climate System

SIO 117. Physical Basis of Global Warming

SIO 135. Satellite Remote Sensing

SIO 144. Isotope Geochemistry

SIO 152. Petrology and Petrography

SIO 153. Geomorphology

SIO 155. Whole Earth Geochemistry

SIO 160. Global Tectonics

SIO 161. Seismology

SIO 162. Structural Geology

SIO 164. Underwater Archaeology

SIO 166. Introduction to Environmental Archaeology

SIO 167. Geoarchaeology in Theory and Practice

SIO 170. Volcanology

SIO 182. Environmental and Exploration Geophysics

SIO 199. Independent Research

ESYS 102. The Solid and Fluid Earth

Marine Science Minor

The Scripps Institution of Oceanography offers an undergraduate minor program in marine science. The minor curriculum is designed to complement the strong disciplinary training of UC San Diego basic science majors by providing a broad interdisciplinary perspective with an environmental focus. Ocean-related science is relevant to many contemporary environmental issues and problems and central to understanding Earth-system evolution, dynamics, climate, and sustainability. The minor consists of courses and research opportunities offered primarily through faculty and researchers at Scripps. The mix of these components can be tailored to reflect students’ career interests through an “all courses” track or a “research” track. The “all courses” track offers a very flexible curriculum that serves students with a broad range of educational and career interests including environmental management and regulation, teaching, environmental law, economics and policy and a wide variety of graduate programs. The “research” track is designed for students interested in an undergraduate research experience at Scripps and serves as excellent preparation for graduate research studies.

The minor consists of twenty-eight units of course work, at least twenty of which must be upper division. Courses required by a student’s major may not be applied toward the minor. Up to two courses for the minor may be taken on a Pass/Not Pass basis (upper or lower division). Students must earn at least a letter grade of C– in the remaining five or more courses used for the minor. The marine science minor places a strong emphasis on a rigorous natural science foundation; thus, several of the upper-division courses related to the minor have significant prerequisites. Students planning the minor should check catalog course descriptions carefully and should meet with advising staff in the Scripps Institution of Oceanography Office of Undergraduate Programs, Galbraith Hall, Room 188.

• SIO 30. The Oceans
• Any one of the following lower-division courses may be applied to the minor requirements SIO 10. The Earth SIO 12. History of the Earth and Evolution SIO 20. The Atmosphere SIO 35. Water SIO 40. Life and Climate on Earth SIO 50. Introduction to Earth and Environmental Sciences

Additionally, any math, chemistry, physics, or biology course that is a prerequisite for an upper-division elective for the marine science minor (e.g., MATH 20 series; CHEM 6A, 6B, 6C; PHYS 2 series; BILD 1, 2, 3) may be applied, by petition, as a lower-division requirement for the minor’s major.

Option 1—All Courses Track

At least five courses from the list (below) of upper-division electives

Option 2—Research Track

At least five courses from the list (below) of upper-division electives, at least three of which must be courses satisfying Option #1 and at least two of which must be Independent Study (SIO 199; eight units total). Note: The Independent Study must be designed in mutual agreement and arrangement with a Scripps faculty member. Students interested in the marine science minor “Research Track” must meet with a Scripps Undergraduate Program adviser for information and policies.

Upper-Division Electives

SIO 101. California Coastal Oceanography

SIO 104/255. Paleobiology and History of Life

SIO 108. Introduction to Paleoclimatology

SIO 110. Introduction to GIS and GPS for Scientists

SIO 111/PHYS 111. Introduction to Ocean Waves

SIO 117. The Physical Basis of Global Warming

SIO 119. Physics and Chemistry of the Oceans

SIO 124. Marine Natural Products

SIO 125. Biomechanics of Marine Life

SIO 126. Marine Microbiology

SIO 127. Marine Molecular Ecology

SIO 128. Microbial Life in Extreme Environments

SIO 129. Marine Chemical Ecology

SIO 130. Scientific Diving

SIO 132. Introduction to Marine Biology

SIO 133. Marine Mammal Biology

SIO 134. Introduction to Biological Oceanography

SIO 135/236. Satellite Remote Sensing

SIO 138. The Coral Reef Environment

SIO 141/CHEM 174. Chemical Principles of Marine Systems

SIO 143. Ocean Acidification

SIO 147. Applications of Phylogenetics

SIO 148/248. Evolution of Earth’s Biosphere

SIO 160. Introduction to Tectonics

SIO 171. Introduction to Physical Oceanography

SIO 172. Physics of the Atmosphere

SIO 180/292. Communicating Science to Informal Audiences

SIO 181. Marine Biochemistry

SIO 183. Phycology: Biology of Marine Plants

SIO 184. Marine Invertebrates

SIO 185. Marine Microbiology Lab

SIO 188. Biology of Fishes

SIO 198. Directed Group Study

SIO 199. Independent Study

ECE 156/MAE 149/SIO 238. Sensor Networks

Other Scripps Oceanography courses may be submitted by petition.

Study Abroad

Study abroad through the Study Abroad UC San Diego ( http://studyabroad.ucsd.edu ) or Opportunities Abroad Program can enhance a student’s major, particularly as an opportunity for diverse field experiences. However, careful planning is important to meet all major requirements. Please contact the Scripps Office of Undergraduate Programs as early as possible if you are a geosciences major or a marine biology major and planning to study abroad.

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Current Programs

Application for Fall 2024 and Winter 2025 available now!

A limited number of spots are available in each course in order to maintain a low student-instructor ratio. Please apply as soon as possible to receive consideration for a spot in your desired program(s). For inquiries, please email UCSD Pre-College Programs ( [email protected] ) and [email protected] .

The following programs are designed to empower high school students to share learning, network with peers, and become environmental advocates. The goal of this program is to develop problem solving, organization, creative thinking, communication, collaboration, and leadership skills that will support future career goals and aspirations.

Tier 1 courses offer students a foundation in ocean sciences, specifically marine biology and related disciplines. Students will explore the diversity of life and how biological, chemical and physical processes drive ecosystem dynamics in a marine environment. Each course is designed to target relevant, contemporary environmental issues while providing a pathway for students to participate in our Tier 2 , research workshops. Tier 1 courses are also designed for students who are simply interested in learning more about the marine environment and associated marine science career pathways.

Tier 1 Courses are currently offered online and in-person . These 4 or 8 week courses are designed to acclimate students to a university summer and quarter systems, respectively. Each week, students will have 2 asynchronous, interactive and gamified lessons. Synchronous sessions are designed for student collaboration and discussion, guest speaker interactions, and guided virtual lab experiences. These courses are aimed to foster next generation critical thinkers, communicators, creators and stewards of the ocean environment.

Tier 2 courses offer students a multidisciplinary practical research experience in collaboration with Scripps Institution of Oceanography graduate students and other active marine science researchers in various industries. Students will partner with researchers and can participate in, design and run their own projects on California Coastal Ecology, Coral Reef Ecology and Restoration, Animal Physiology, Thermodynamics, Metabolics, and Fisheries Science to name a few. Field-based excursions to intertidal zones, salt marshes, and other marine ecosystems in San Diego are an integral part of this program; however, some projects are also adapted with an at-home lab component for non-local students.

Tier 3 courses offer students that have participated in one or more Tier 2 courses the opportunity to practice critical literacy skills specifically needed in scientific writing  and publish studies in our Marine Science Research Scholars Journal . The purpose of Tier 2 and 3 workshops is to participate in scientific studies that generate data needed to advocate for the environment and the communities that rely on a healthy system.

Tier 1 Courses

Introduction to marine science (fall 2024 - online).

Introduction to Marine Science - Apply for course here (opens new page)

Dates:  September 24, 2024 - November 14, 2024 (8 weeks)  

Tuition: $2000  

Grade Level: 9th - 12th, recent graduates welcome

Instructor : Nicole Yen  

Format: Online

Schedule:   

• Synchronous – Tuesday, Thursday (4-5:20 PM PST)  
• Asynchronous - 2 lessons / week (2-3 hours/week of additional work)    

The Introduction to Marine Science course offers a deep dive into the vast and complex world of our oceans. It provides students with an immersive experience into the dynamic processes that govern the marine environment, from the microscopic plankton that form the base of the food web to the majestic blue whales that traverse the ocean basins. Students will explore the intricate chemical cycles that sustain life in the oceans, the physical forces that shape marine habitats, and the diverse biological communities that inhabit them.   

The course covers a wide range of topics, including:   

Students will also have opportunities to engage with current research and learn about the latest technological advancements in marine science. It prepares students for diverse careers in marine research, policy development, environmental stewardship, and other related fields. By exploring the intricate web of life and the physical dynamics that shape the marine environment, students will learn to appreciate the ocean’s significance to global ecosystems and humanity’s role in safeguarding its future. This course is designed to inspire a new generation of marine scientists, equipped with the knowledge and skills to contribute to the understanding and preservation of our oceanic world.  

This course is available for 4 pre-college units and can act as a prerequisite for any Tier 2 courses offered.   

Topics Include  

• Fundamentals of Oceanography  
• Introduction to Organismal Biology  
• Marine Ecosystem Diversity and Services  
• Marine Conservation and Marine Science Careers   

Organismal Biology Lab (Winter 2025 - In-Person)

Organismal Biology Lab - Apply for course here (opens new page)

Dates: (4 weeks) Saturdays, February 1, 2025 - March 22nd, 2025

Tuition: $2500 

Grade Level: 9-12th grade, recent graduates welcome

Instructor: Nicole Yen 

Format: In-Person

Schedule:  

• Synchronous – Every Saturday (9 AM-12 PM PST @ SIO, Aburto Lab) 
• Asynchronous - 1 lesson / week - TBA

Have you ever wondered what makes you related to the “immortal” jellyfish – what similarities and differences can be uncovered by zooming into our tissues under the microscope? The Organismal Biology Lab course is designed to expose students to the incredible and rich diversity of life in the oceans through engaging and fun in-depth lab practicals and dissections. Identify the invisible life in the oceans such as marine plankton under the microscope and even dissect a dogfish shark and lamprey in partnership with Aburto Lab at Scripps Institution of Oceanography! The major focus of this course is diversity through the lens of an evolutionary and functional biologist, since evolutionary processes enrich our understanding of how genes, genomes, and finally species evolve. Students will learn about the basic characteristics of major animal groups, amazing adaptations, and complex behaviors and interactions that drive speciation. Such knowledge is essential for understanding biology in general and provides the tools for our stewardship of the planet’s biota and the sustainability of the ecological services we take for granted. This course is available for 4 pre-college units. 

Topics Include 

• Animal Diversity, Evolution, Systematics, and Phylogenetics 
• Symmetry and Developmental Pattern 
• Skeleton and Muscles 
• Digestion and Excretion 
• Circulation and Respiration 
• Invertebrate diversity with microscopy and/or dissections [Porifera, Cnidaria, Platyhelminthes, Nematoda, Annelida, Mollusca, Arthropoda, Echinodermata
• Vertebrate diversity with microscopy [Mammals, Reptiles, Birds] and dissections [Fish] 

Seafood Sustainability: Practices and Perspectives (Spring 2025 - Online)

Seafood Sustainability: Practices and Perspectives *formally Seafood Fraud Detectives - Apply for course here (opens new page)

Dates: (4 weeks) September 24, 2024 - October 17th, 2024

Tuition: $1500 

Advisors: Sarah Mesnick, Mar Mancha-Cisneros  

• Synchronous   Session: Tuesday and Thursdays (5:30-6:30 PM PST)  
• Asynchronous – 1-2 hours of additional work/ week  

This course offers a comprehensive exploration of sustainable practices in the seafood industry. Students will delve into the environmental and socio-economic impacts of seafood production and consumption, learning about the challenges and opportunities in aquaculture management and wild fisheries, which are crucial sources of food and livelihood for many communities. The curriculum covers:   

This course is for individuals aiming to become informed consumers, aspiring marine biology students, and students seeking expertise in environmental and fishing policy. This course will also feature guest lectures from esteemed experts, including professionals from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and leading figures in seafood sustainability and management. This course is available for 2 pre-college units.  

  Topics Include  

• Marine Fish Systematics & Ecology  
• Fisheries and Management  
• Seafood Traceability  
• Sustainable seafood practices and consumer choices   

After this course it is highly recommended to participate in: 

• Tier 2, Advanced Seafood Fraud Detectives (Hybrid) where students will examine seafood mislabeling and traceability in San Diego using molecular tools.
• Tier 2, Advanced Sustainable Seafood Science (Online) where students will explore seafood sustainability and traceability in their own communities.

Tier 2 Courses

Coming soon, tier 3 courses, introduction to scientific writing (fall 2024 - online).

Introduction to Scientific Writing - Apply for course here (opens new page)

Dates: September 23, 2024 - November 13, 2024

Grade Level: 9-12th grade  

Instructor : Nicole Yen and Sonya Timko  

Schedule:  

• Synchronous – Monday, Wednesday (4:30-5:50 PM PST)
• Asynchronous – 3-5 hours of additional work/ week  

Introduction to Scientific Writing is a course tailored to students who have completed a Tier 2 course and are ready to transform their research into a manuscript. This course guides students through the process of writing and publishing their work, either as a preprint or as a manuscript, in esteemed Marine Science journals. It focuses on honing the students’ abilities to write with precision and clarity, making them adept technical writers and communicators. The curriculum includes practice in graduate-level science communication, particularly mastering the art of the 3-minute flash talk. This technique equips students to effectively distill and present their research findings to a broad audience, ensuring they can engage listeners from various backgrounds. This course will be available for 4 pre-college units.   

Any prior Tier 2 students are welcome to apply.   

• Principles of Effective Writing and Reading in Science  
• Organization and Formatting Manuscripts  
• Preparation of Figures and Citation Style  
• Communicating Science to a Diverse Audience   

Other Program Information

Marine science application, marine science acceptance, marine science cancellation/refund policies.

CANCELLATION POLICY

Cancellation or withdrawal for any reason 2 weeks prior to the course start date .

Refunds for cancellation or withdrawal after the 2 weeks deadline  be issued for serious illness (doctor's certificate is required) or extenuating circumstances only. Tuition is not refunded for students who are dismissed from the program.

HOW TO REQUEST A REFUND

All refund requests must be made in writing to Maysoon Dong, Associate Director for the Education & Community Outreach Department  at: [email protected] . You will receive a confirmation of your request. Refunds will take approximately 4-6 weeks to process. Refunds are issued in the same method of payment (check or charge) of payment to UC San Diego Academic Connections.

COVID Policies - Hybrid Courses

• Masking on campus is optional. For latest updates on our policies, please follow this link to COVID policy page.
• If you are experiencing or have had COVID-19 symptoms within the past 14 days, please stay at home.
• If you believe that you have been in recent contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19, please stay at home. 

COVID-19 Policies - Residential Programs

Updated COVID-19 Guidelines for Academic Connections  

The following replaces pp.11-12 of the Academic Connections Handbook  

• COVID-19 vaccination  
• Masking, UNLESS symptomatic OR a close contact  
• Pre-arrival or upon-arrival COVID-19 testing  

What is required :  

Weekly Testing  

Provider-observed weekly COVID-19 testing will be required for each attendee.    

The provider-observed verification form that is emailed to the student after a test is observed must be submitted by the student to the Academic Connections office via a secure, HIPAA-compliant form between 9A Monday and 9A Tuesday of each week.  A secure, HIPAA-compliant form will be e-mailed to the student each Sunday night from the Director of Residence Life and must be returned with the provider-observed verification form attached by 9A Tuesday of each week of the program.  

Failure to submit the weekly provider-observed verification form will result in parental notification and may result in expulsion from the program with no opportunity for refund.  

Symptomatic Testing  

Each student must independently monitor for COVID-19 symptoms throughout the program.  Symptoms include any of the following:  cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigued muscles or body aches, headache, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, or diarrhea.  If any of these symptoms occur, the student must immediately test with a provider-observed COVID-19 testing kit.  The provider-observed verification form that is emailed to the student after a test is observed will need to be submitted by the student to the Academic Connections office via a secure, HIPAA-compliant form right away.  Failure to submit the  provider-observed verification form will result in parental notification and may result in expulsion from the program with no opportunity for refund.  

Exposure to COVID-19  

If a student becomes exposed to a close-contact who has tested positive for COVID-19, they must take the following steps: Close contact is defined as sharing the same airspace with an infected person for more than 15 minutes in a 24-hour period.   

  Test immediately, and again 3-5 days post-exposure via a provider-observed COVID-19 test kit.  The provider-observed verification form that is emailed to the student after a test is observed will need to be submitted by the student to the Academic Connections office via a secure, HIPAA-compliant form right away.  Failure to submit the provider-observed verification form will result in parental notification and may result in expulsion from the program with no opportunity for refund.  

Additionally, those exposed to a close-contact must:  

Mask when around others for the next 10 days.  

Self-monitor daily for symptoms for the next 10 days.  

If symptoms develop, test at that time via the provider-observed testing kit and submit results using the secure, HIPAA-compliant form right away.  Failure to submit the provider-observed verification form will result in parental notification and may result in expulsion from the program with no opportunity for refund.  

Supplies  

We recommend https://shop.emed.com/collections/all and the eMed Flu+Covid Telehealth Kit 6-pack that is $150 for the provider-observed test.  It is HSA/FSA approved and is the most affordable option that we have found.  

Parents or guardians must purchase or acquire at least 20 individually packaged KN95 or 10 N95 masks to send with their students to the program in case they become symptomatic during the program or if they come in close contact with someone who tests positive for COVID-19.  

Parents or guardians will be notified by Academic Connections staff as soon as we know that a student tests positive for COVID-19 or influenza.  Since there may be a gap in between your student’s test and submitting the results of that test to the Academic Connections staff, we strongly encourage parents/guardians to inquire frequently with their students about the results of any provider-observed test that they take, whether weekly, on a symptomatic basis, or as result of a close contact.    

Students who test positive for COVID-19 or influenza must immediately mask and will be isolated until their guardians arrive to pick them up from the program, preferably within 8 hours of a positive test.  However, a student must depart from the program with their guardian no more than 24 hours after testing positive for COVID-19 or influenza.  During isolation, meals will be provided to students by program staff and they will be monitored.  Should symptoms worsen before being picked up, students will be transported to UC San Diego Health for assessment and treatment.  

You can also learn more about the program by visiting our Research Scholars Marine Science website:

Research Scholars Community Website (opens new page)

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Marine Biology: Welcome

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• Journal Article Databases
• EndNote - Web Version

About This Guide

This guide is designed to help you start your research in marine biology and related marine sciences.  Please use the tabs in this guide to discover and link to great resources that the UC San Diego Library is providing for your research.

You may want to start by looking at the basic information found under Encyclopedias & Handbooks tab.  Use the Books & E-Books tab for access to online catalogs and resources for finding books on your topics , then use the Journal Article Databases tab to find articles on your topics, and last, but not least, use the EndNote tab to help organize your references.

Accessing Electronic Resources?

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If you are located off-campus, start by setting up VPN AnyConnect on your device.

The UC San Diego Health and Health Science VPN also provides off campus access to resources the Library provides. Instructions and assistance for UC San Diego Health and Health Science VPN users can be found in the Pulse intranet .

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University of California - San Diego BS in Marine Biology

How much does a bachelor’s in biological oceanography from ucsd cost, ucsd undergraduate tuition and fees.

Does UCSD Offer an Online BS in Biological Oceanography?

Ucsd bachelor’s student diversity for biological oceanography, male-to-female ratio.

Of the students who received their bachelor’s degree in biological oceanography in 2019-2020, 78.9% of them were women. This is higher than the nationwide number of 70.1%.

Racial-Ethnic Diversity

Racial-ethnic minority graduates* made up 44.7% of the biological oceanography bachelor’s degrees at UCSD in 2019-2020. This is higher than the nationwide number of 25%.

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Fiscal and Human Resources Assistant - 131767

Job description, #131767 fiscal and human resources assistant.

UCSD Layoff from Career Appointment : Apply by 08/26/2024 for consideration with preference for rehire. All layoff applicants should contact their Employment Advisor.

Special Selection Applicants : Apply by 09/04/2024. Eligible Special Selection clients should contact their Disability Counselor for assistance.

This position will work a hybrid schedule which includes a combination of working both onsite in La Jolla and remote. This is subject to change due to business needs.

DESCRIPTION

Responsible for fiscal activities for the SIO Biology Section. Fiscal responsibilities include bookkeeping, procurement, travel, personal reimbursements, processing new awards, allocating funding via a financial journal, and coordinating with other departments. Prior to approval by Finance Manager, review expenditures for appropriateness, availability of funds, and applicable funding restrictions (OMB Uniform Guidance, 133, 110, CASB). Prepare and review cost transfers and other transfers as needed. Review transactions for allowable and available funding and approve up to designated level. Process Oracle Procurement requests, coding properly for account, tax, and commodity information. Process other procurement actions including procurement cards, Concur reimbursements, campus orders for goods and services. Coordinate travel for staff, including advising on proper procedures and guidelines, document review and approval, and UCSD Travel Card enrollment. As needed, provide back-up to help coordinate field safety research plans as required by policy, providing guidelines and submit to Risk Management/EH&S. Facilitate shipping and logistics arrangements for complex international research expeditions. Provide interpretation of UC, Federal and State policies in order to ensure compliance with all processes. Work with supervisor to ensure all fiscal deadlines are completed in a timely manner. As needed, assist with fiscal closing activities annually.

Responsible for providing a variety of Human Resources administration tasks for the SIO Biology Section, including but not limited to: staff service credit; assist with academic appointment preparation for Visiting Research, Research Associate, and Postdoctoral Scholar files; process Volunteer appointment renewals, Volunteer terminations, and Non-Salaried Visiting Graduate Student (VGS) appointments; perform personnel database and UC system entries; prepare HR reports; create/maintain HR spreadsheets and other documents; as needed assist with staff performance appraisal and job description process; and provide general support to SIO Biology Section HR Team.

Work direction provided by several team members.

QUALIFICATIONS

Experience processing financial and purchasing transactions.

Strong ability to independently perform a variety of accurate financial calculations using basic arithmetic functions including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percentages, ratios, etc. Ability to analyze financial data.

Knowledge of human resources administration and related policies and procedures. Some experience with employment processes.

Intermediate to advanced level skills in Excel or similar spreadsheet software.

Customer service experience with a service oriented attitude. Excellent customer service skills with experience in responding to requests in a timely manner and maintaining cooperative working relationships.

Strong, demonstrated ability to work independently with a variety of computer platforms and software programs. Demonstrated ability to use MS Word and Microsoft office suite.

Experience with web-based applications, database entry, email, and calendaring systems. Experience with file sharing. Proficient in use of video platforms (such as Zoom) to conduct and participate in discussions and meetings. Ability to self-teach.

Strong skills in composing documents and correspondence in English using correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Good and accurate typing skills, including proofreading ability.

Demonstrated record management experience. Proven skill in establishing and maintaining accurate, organized records, files and filing systems.

Strict attention to detail and ability to accurately complete documents in a timely manner. Ability to pay close attention to detail and to produce accurate and timely work despite frequent interruptions.

Demonstrated ability to work within a team framework, participating in-group discussions regarding systems, procedures, and goals of the units. Strong teamwork attitude to independently and willingly assist in other areas of Business Office as needed. Ability to accept changing priorities regularly and to perform duties not normally assigned to this position as needed or directed.

Ability to prioritize tasks. Demonstrated ability to self-motivate, to independently follow tasks through to completion and to take ownership of work performance.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

Must pass background check.

Must be willing to work overtime as required to fulfill position responsibilities, particularly during fiscal closing and during peak periods for HR Team.

Valid Driver's License preferred and may be subject to DMV check for driving record and valid driver's license.

Pay Transparency Act

Annual Full Pay Range: $40,700 - $85,295 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

Hourly Equivalent: $19.49 - $40.85

Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).

If employed by the University of California, you will be required to comply with our Policy on Vaccination Programs, which may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.

To foster the best possible working and learning environment, UC San Diego strives to cultivate a rich and diverse environment, inclusive and supportive of all students, faculty, staff and visitors. For more information, please visit UC San Diego Principles of Community .

UC San Diego is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.

For the University of California’s Affirmative Action Policy please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/4010393/PPSM-20 For the University of California’s Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination

UC San Diego is a smoke and tobacco free environment. Please visit smokefree.ucsd.edu for more information.

Application Instructions

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Posted : 8/22/2024

Job Reference # : 131767

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Interested in working at UC San Diego and UC San Diego Health but can't find a position that's right for you? Submit your resume to our Talent Community to be considered for future opportunities that may align with your expertise. Please note, by joining our Talent Community, you are not applying for a position with UC San Diego Campus and Health. Rather, this is an additional way for our Talent Acquisition team to find candidates with specific credentials, if an opportunity arises. You are still encouraged to regularly check back on our career site or sign up for Job Alerts to apply for openings that are a match for your background.

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Marine Biology Majors: Study Abroad

• Complete the Get Started overview course on Canvas
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featured UCEAP programs in biological science

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Featured Global Seminar

The Sea Turtles and Tropical Ecology in Costa Rica Global Seminar may be of particular interest to marine biology students who want to study abroad during the summer.

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Learn how   YOU   can study abroad as a  SIO  major. This session provides an overview of program types, recommended options for  SIO  majors, financial aid, and scholarship information. You will also have the opportunity to hear from a UCEAP Costa Rica past participant about her experience studying abroad.

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Aug 22, 2024

Fish Experts Study Rare Deep-Sea Oarfish in the Lab

Please note, the following story was originally published on  Scripps Institution of Oceanography's Newsroom .

A team of science-minded kayakers and snorkelers in La Jolla Cove had the encounter of a lifetime when a dead  oarfish washed to the ocean surface  on Aug.10, 2024. This deep-sea fish is incredibly rare, and marks  only the 20th oarfish documented to have washed up in California since 1901 . 

Thanks to the work from these locals, the fish was transported to the NOAA Fisheries’ Southwest Fisheries Science Center in La Jolla. On Aug. 16, a team of scientists from UC San Diego’s Scripps Institution of Oceanography, California State University Fullerton, and NOAA Fisheries’ Southwest Fisheries Science Center were able to examine the rare short-crested oarfish ( Regalecus russellii ), performing a necropsy, or animal autopsy, to learn more about this unique organism.

“Rare encounters like this provide an amazing opportunity to learn more about this species and how it lives,” said Ben Frable, ichthyologist and manager of the Marine Vertebrate Collection at Scripps, who was part of the necropsy team. “We are fortunate to have a large community of researchers and world-class collection that mobilized quickly to examine and preserve this fish.”

The fish was an adult male, measuring 12.25 feet (3.735 meters) in length, 1.14 feet in depth (0.348 meters), and weighed 74.3 pounds (33.7 kilograms). This unusual deep-water fish has a scaleless, long ribbon-like silvery body with dark spots. A long red dorsal fin crest, measuring 2.17 feet in length (0.662 meters), extended from the top of the head.

The fish was in good condition and it is not clear why the fish died.  

Scientists also do not know why the fish washed up where it did, though it is generally thought to have to do with injury, illness, and disorientation. Frable noted that La Jolla Shores is situated next to two underwater canyons that funnel deep water close to shore. This proximity may contribute to why disoriented or injured deep-sea fish, such as  lancetfish and  footballfish , occasionally wash up in the area. 

Samples were obtained during the examination that will be used to shed light on the little known biology of this oarfish. These samples will be used to:

• Generate the first high-quality, chromosome-level genome for the longest bony fish in the world, providing a foundational reference for future genetic and genomic studies.  
• Use stable isotopes and genetic barcoding to better understand foraging ecology, or what the fish is eating and its role in the marine food web. 
• Describe the shape and function of the gills and gill rakers — the elements that the fish use to filter their prey from the water — to look at the filtering anatomy and to inform studies of metabolism and feeding strategies.
• Describe the reproductive status. This male did not have visible signs of milt (sperm) and scientists have previously found that oarfish locally are reproducing in June, but not August and September. 
• Analyze organs, tissues and body fluids for potential presence of contaminants such as microplastics and DDT. 
• Compare the digestive system with the other species of oarfish,  Regalecus glesne.  

After the examination, the fish is undergoing preservation and is now part of the  Marine Vertebrate Collection at Scripps , which houses one of the largest collections of deep-sea fish in the world.

“This oarfish presents a rare opportunity to obtain fresh samples for genomic analysis, allowing us to study the evolutionary adaptations that enable this species to thrive in deep-sea environments,” said Dahiana Arcila, marine biologist and curator of the Marine Vertebrate Collection at Scripps. “This finding also significantly contributes to documenting life on our planet, with each specimen providing valuable data to guide conservation efforts and enhance our understanding of marine ecosystems. Collections like ours play a crucial role in preserving these specimens for future research, ensuring that we can continue to learn from them for generations to come.”

Often described as sea serpents in history, oarfish can grow to lengths of 30 feet and are the longest bony fish in the world. While oarfish have a  mythical reputation as predictors of natural disasters and earthquakes, experts have debunked this as folklore.  A 2019 study found no correlation between oarfish or ribbonfish strandings and earthquakes in Japan.

Given the immense local and global interest, Birch Aquarium at Scripps has opened a temporary exhibit with more information on this mysterious fish. The display in the main galleria at Birch Aquarium will include a  life-size gyotaku art print of the oarfish done by artist  Dwight Hwang after the necropsy was completed. 

Each rare specimen that is collected offers researchers a valuable opportunity to gain new insights. If someone finds a unique creature on the beach, they are encouraged to alert the local lifeguards. If in Southern California, members of the public can notify Scripps Institution of Oceanography at [email protected] or (858) 534-3624. It should also be noted that many beaches may be marine protected areas, where taking of organisms is illegal. 

Members of the public interested in supporting the research and discoveries of the Scripps oceanographic collections can do so here:  https://go.ucsd.edu/46SS6PY .

The team of scientists that performed the necropsy include Arcila and Frable of Scripps Oceanography; Misty Paig-Tran, associate professor of biological sciences, and graduate students Jordyn Neal, Katie Kern, and Jessica Clark from California State University Fullerton; and research fish biologist Nick Wegner and scientist Antonella Preti from NOAA Fisheries’ Southwest Fisheries Science Center. 

About Scripps Oceanography

Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California San Diego is one of the world’s most important centers for global earth science research and education. In its second century of discovery, Scripps scientists work to understand and protect the planet, and investigate our oceans, Earth, and atmosphere to find solutions to our greatest environmental challenges. Scripps offers unparalleled education and training for the next generation of scientific and environmental leaders through its undergraduate, master’s and doctoral programs. The institution also operates a fleet of four oceanographic research vessels, and is home to Birch Aquarium at Scripps, the public exploration center that welcomes 500,000 visitors each year.

About UC San Diego

At the University of California San Diego, we embrace a culture of exploration and experimentation. Established in 1960, UC San Diego has been shaped by exceptional scholars who aren’t afraid to look deeper, challenge expectations and redefine conventional wisdom. As one of the top 15 research universities in the world, we are driving innovation and change to advance society, propel economic growth and make our world a better place. Learn more at ucsd.edu.

The individuals who identified the oarfish while kayaking and snorkeling were Emily Miller of California Sea Grant; Natalia Erazo, Alejandro Cano-Lasso Carretero, and Gabriella Costa Machado da Cruz of Scripps Oceanography; Michael Wang, Luis Erazo, Monica DeYoung and Andrew Musbach. 

About Birch Aquarium at Scripps

Birch Aquarium at Scripps is the public exploration center for Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego. Perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Birch Aquarium features the groundbreaking work of Scripps Oceanography and UC San Diego scientists as well as conservation breeding programs and interactive exhibits. Birch Aquarium’s mission is to connect understanding to protecting our ocean planet, which it achieves through engaging hands-on learning opportunities for more than 500,000 guests and 40,000-plus pre-K-12 students each year. Visit aquarium.ucsd.edu for more information.

Related News

Birch aquarium contributes to global knowledge of species, birch aquarium’s collaboration with safe sharks and rays, fascinating fish: pacific spiny lumpsuckers, subscribe to birch aquarium at scripps emails, subscribe to teacher elist emails.

Marine Science (Minor)

Scripps offers an undergraduate minor program in Marine Science. The minor curriculum is designed to complement the strong disciplinary training of UCSD basic science majors by providing a broad interdisciplinary perspective with an environmental focus.

Ocean-related science is relevant to many contemporary environmental issues and problems and central to understanding earth-system evolution, dynamics, climate and sustainability. The minor consists of courses and research opportunities offered primarily by faculty and researchers at Scripps. The mix of these components can be tailored to reflect students career interests through an all courses track or a research track.

The all courses track offers a very flexible curriculum that serves students with a broad range of educational and career interests including environmental management and regulation, teaching, environmental law, economics and policy and a wide variety of graduate programs. The research track is designed for students interested in an undergraduate research experience at Scripps and serves as excellent preparation for graduate research studies.

The Minor consists of twenty-eight units of course work, at least twenty of which must be upper-division. Up to 2 courses for the minor may be taken on a Pass/Not Pass basis (upper or lower division). Students must earn at least a letter grade of C- in the remaining 5 or more courses used for the minor.

The Marine Science minor places a strong emphasis on a rigorous natural science foundation; thus, several of the upper division courses related to the minor have significant prerequisites. Students planning the minor should check catalog course descriptions carefully and should meet with advising staff in the Marine Science Program office.

Please note that all academic advising questions (for current students) are handled via the  Virtual Advisor .

Marine Science Minor Requirements

Lower-Division Requirements

• SIO 30 The Oceans
• SIO 10 The Earth
• SIO 12 History of the Earth and Evolution
• SIO 20 The Atmosphere
• SIO 35 Water
• SIO 40 Life and Climate on Earth
• SIO 50 Introduction to Earth and Environmental Sciences
• Additionally: any math, chemistry, physics or biology course that is a prerequisites for an upper division elective for the Marine Science minor (ex. MATH 20 series; CHEM 6A, 6B, 6C, PHYS 2 series; BILD 1, 2, 3 ) may be applied, by petition, as a lower-division requirement for the minor if NOT already used as a lower-division requirement for the student's major.

Upper-Division Requirements

Option 1 - All Courses Track:

At least 5 courses from the list (below) of upper-division electives

Option 2 - Research Track:

At least 5 courses from the list (below) of upper division electives, at least 3 of which must be courses satisfying Option #1 and at least 2 of which must be Independent Study( SIO 199 ; 8 units total) Note: The Independent Study must be designed in mutual agreement and arrangement with an SIO faculty member. Students interested in the Marine Science Minor Research Track must meet with an SIO Undergraduate Program adviser for information and policies.

Upper-Division Electives

• SIO 101 California Coastal Oceanography
• SIO 102 Introduction to Geochemistry
• SIO 103 Introduction to Geophysics
• SIO 104 Paleobiology and History of Life
• SIO 105 Sedimentology and Stratigraphy
• SIO 110 Introduction to GIS and GPS for Scientists
• SIO 111 Introduction to Ocean Waves and Tides
• SIO 115 Ice and the Climate System
• SIO 117 The Physical Climate System
• SIO 119 Physics and Chemistry of the Oceans
• SIO 126 Marine Microbiology 
• SIO 127 Marine Molecular Ecology
• SIO 128 Microbial Life in Extreme Environments
• SIO 132 Introduction to Marine Biology
• SIO 133 Marine Mammal Biology
• SIO 134 Introduction to Biological Oceanography
• SIO 135 / SIO 236   Satellite Remote Sensing
• SIO 138 The Coral Reef Environment 
• SIO 141 Chemical Principles of Marine Systems
• SIO 143 Ocean Acidification
• SIO 147 Applications of Phylogenetics
• SIO 160 Introduction to Tectonics
• SIO 172 Physics of the Atmosphere
• SIO 180 Communicating Science to Informal Audiences
• SIO 181 Marine Biochemistry
• SIO 183 Phycology: Biology of Marine Plants
• SIO 184 Marine Invertebrates
• SIO 185 : Marine Microbiology Lab (Lab)
• SIO 199 Independent Study  **Option 2 - Research Track ONLY*
• SIOC 238 Sensor Networks
• Other SIO courses may be submitted by petition.

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