Rebecca Green Masters of Science in Oceanography, 2012

Data analyst/consultant for Mekong Modelling Associates, Cambodia

I had originally applied for a 3 year BSc course in Oceanography and Physical Geography, but after less than a semester studying at NOCS I had switched to the four year Masters of Science in Oceanography programme.

Studying at NOCS was such a fulfilling experience; you are surrounded by such a supportive, vibrant community of scientists, with leading researchers always willing to share their vast experiences and knowledge. The practical aspect of the course I particularly enjoyed, not always confined to a lecture theatre, but in labs, or out in the field collecting data from the Solent and further afield. In my second year I was lucky enough to get a summer placement working for the Canadian Hydrographic Office as a tidal technician, which was organised through the university. Travelling all over Vancouver Island working on tidal and tsunami gauges, followed by my first research cruise encouraged me to specialise in physical oceanography. In my final year, I participated on a 6 week research cruise in the subtropical Atlantic, collecting data for my dissertation which investigated the complex links between biological productivity and small scale physical processes.

On completing my degree, I went on to become a Divemaster and work in coral conservation in SE Asia, before moving to the Cayman Islands to work as a reef researcher. I was able to draw on all the skills I had developed throughout my time at Southampton in terms of fieldwork, statistical analyses, scientific writing and communication. I worked on a variety of projects including climate change – ocean warming and acidification, coral restoration, lionfish culling and dissection/stomach analysis, and juvenile Nassau Grouper mapping. Now I am in Cambodia working as a consultant on projects in the Lower Mekong Basin and Vietnamese Delta, and applying for a PhD in Australia which would combine my two main interests; coral reefs and physical oceanography.

My time at Southampton provided such fantastic opportunities and work prospects, and inspired me to seek out the diverse experiences I have had since graduating. My supervisors and lecturers continue to support and offer guidance throughout my professional career, as well as providing great references and encouragement. The freedom to shape your degree to your specific interests allowed me to discover my niche in marine science, and the university’s strong foundation in research makes it the ideal place to study.