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The U.S. government is closed. This site will not be updated; however, NOAA websites and social media channels necessary to protect lives and property will be maintained. To learn more, visit commerce.gov. 

For the latest forecasts and critical weather information, visit weather.gov.

Optimizing Field Mesocosm Studies for Oil and Chemical Spill Assessments: Addressing Food Limitation in Test Organisms (Charleston, SC)

Summary / Description

NOAA’s Office of Response and Restoration (ORR) faces a challenge in quickly conducting scientific studies after oil/chemical spills, often losing crucial ephemeral data. The Deepwater Horizon spill highlighted the value of field mesocosm studies for timely assessment and restoration.

To improve readiness, NOAA’s National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) developed and tested field-based mesocosm systems. Initial trials in South Carolina and Texas refined the design. Two full-scale deployments in South Carolina and Louisiana monitored the survivorship and growth of caged organisms (shrimp, fish) over three weeks, alongside environmental and contaminant data collection.

Results showed high survivorship (>95%), validating the design. However, a key challenge was insufficient passive food supply, particularly for fish, possibly worsened by biofouling. This limited optimal growth.

The proposed study aims to solve this food limitation by investigating various feeding supplements, regimes, or delivery systems in field-based mesocosms deployed at a field site as well as placed in controlled greenhouse tanks. The goal is to optimize feeding type and amount to ensure test organism health and representativeness. Survivorship, growth, and environmental variables will be monitored over a three-week period.

This research will enhance NOAA’s ability to conduct comprehensive hazard assessments post-spill, leading to more accurate data and informed environmental response and restoration decisions.

Skills Required

Background in the biological sciences; basic laboratory experience as in Biology and Chemistry courses. Good laboratory practices for QA/QC and safety. Familiarity and competence with computer programs including: Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, basic statistical analysis, Writing and analytical skills are desired. Attention to detail, good record keeping. Ability to work independently as well as part of a research team. Ability to work in the field within a saltmarsh environment, including under hot, humid, and muddy conditions.

Type of Opportunity

  • Research

Location

  • In-person – NOAA’s Hollings Marine Laboratory, Charleston, SC. Mentors can assist with locating housing.

Other Information

  • Intern Supervisor:  Dr. Paul Pennington
  • Number of Slots Available:  1