Update
We made our way out of the polynya (to make sure we don't get trapped in by growing sea ice on the outside) and are back along the continental shelf. We've mapped some new areas and will be taking at least two CTDs today--one of the shelf and one on the slope. It's still a little too windy for drone operations--lead by Dr. Guy Williams--but hopefully we'll be able to start with those soon.
Meet the Scientists: Dr. Guy Williams
Dr. Guy Williams of UTAS, working with drones on the NBP
Research Scientist at IMAS/ACECRC of the University of Tasmania
What do they do?
Guy is an observational polar oceanographer. He looks at ocean-ice interactions using autonomous observation platforms like UAVs (aka drones). He also studies dense shelf water formation in Antarctic polynyas.
A drone used to survey sea ice on the helicopter pad of the NBP.
How did they get where they are now?
Guy was inspired to do science while bush walking in New Zealand after going to University for engineering. He saw the spectacular glaciers there and decided to do his Master’s degree on glaciology (the study of glaciers) and then went on to get a PhD in oceanography. His fascination with glaciers and his masters work got him interested in working in Antarctica, though he didn’t do his first trip far south until working on his PhD. Since then he’s done about eight Antarctic cruises to date (with probably many more to come).
Favorite part of the job
Guy loves collecting new data—he feels it’s a form of exploration. He likes that it challenges him to think about how it got there and what it means. He loves science because as a scientist you get to collect information and samples that have never been taken before. In the case of climatology, this could very easily be a piece of history you’re collecting. Also, as a visual person, he enjoys observing systems and plotting data to see what it represents. Guy enjoys the vast expanses and huge space of Antarctica. He also appreciates that his research and collaborations have allowed him to travel across the world. He’s gotten to work with people from different countries, and visited places like France, Japan, and the United States for his work.
Fun Facts
Guy used to play football (soccer for us Americans) and enjoys following sports.
Advice from Guy
Do and study what you love because it will carry you forward. Find something where you get into the mental state of flow. You’ll be alright.