Update
We’re still transiting south. We have about four-ish days to go until we reach Antarctica. Since the weather is still rough (occasionally drawers go flying open and chairs fall over), most of the lab work is on hold. We’ll be busy, busy, busy once we get there though! The decks are closed due to weather, but there is a covered passage one story up from the main deck where I was able to take some quick pictures before I got too wet.
A view from a covered passageway one story above the main deck on the NBP.
Meet the Scientists: Dr. Raul Guerrero
Dr. Raul Guerrero with the CTD onboard the R/V Nathaniel B. Palmer.
Manger of the Physical Oceanography Lab for the National Marine Fisheries of Argentina and Professor of Physical Oceanography at the National University of Mar del Plata
What do they do?
Raul is in charge of the physical oceanography component of the fish stock assessment projects for the Argentine government. Raul coordinates the environmental observational component that go out on their three fishery research vessels to collect environmental data. He and his lab then provide environmental analysis for the National Marine Fisheries department. His group also join physical oceanography cruises planned by other national and international agencies. On this research cruise, Raul is the scientist in charge of the CTD equipment, running CTDs to look for different water masses and analyzing and organizing CTD data.
How did they get to where they are now?
As a child, Raul lived near the sea and loved the ocean. He remembers idolizing Jacque Cousteau. He was inspired to get a degree in Oceanography from University. The day after he graduated he got a job, and three months later they were sending him on his first Antarctic cruise with the Argentine Antarctic Institute. Since then Raul has been on over 100 oceanographic research cruises, including about 22 to Antarctica!
Favorite part of the job
Raul loves being at sea. He says, with a huge smile, that he loves the land and the ice and the environment of Antarctica… it’s just unbelievable. But the best part of doing science is the experiences he’s cultivated to share with others. Doing science has allowed him to travel across the world and experience new cultures, people, and countries. These life experiences are incredibly enriching. New experiences can not only help you appreciate your own country, but they allow you to grown and bring new knowledge, technology, and equipment back home with you to share with others.
Fun Facts
Raul likes to play sports like racquetball and squash as well as an Argentine version of these games. He also enjoys hiking.
A recommendation from Raul
Hands-on experience is priceless. It means so much to volunteer to get involved with something. He recommends everyone get out there and get experience doing hands on work.
Learn more
Visit his website at www.inidep.edu.ar.