This intensive course aims to study how the environment impacts reef benthic communities and the fundamental processes of coral reef metabolism.

Course logistics include readings, lectures, discussions/presentations, and extensive laboratory and fieldwork. Next to gaining a solid understanding of coral reef ecology and reef functional processes, students gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art instrumentation and techniques for collecting and analyzing reef community and environmental data, including building underwater photomosaics, measuring current profiles, characterizing the underwater light field, characterizing water quality, and quantifying rates of primary production and respiration using traditional and advanced approaches.

Prerequisites include university-level biology and ecology; marine science and oceanography are desirable. The course requires boat work and the ability to work comfortably in the water with a mask and snorkel. Those who are SCUBA certified (minimum at the PADI Open Water Diver level, or internationally recognized equivalent) can take on fieldwork underwater and learn scientific diving skills.

Applications are due by April 30.

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