Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) is the world's premier independent organization dedicated exclusively to ocean research, technology, and education. We combine state-of-the-art science, engineering, and ship operations to unravel the mysteries of the deep and devise science-based solutions to planet-wide problems.
RECENT NEWS
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#Throwback to the old way of initiating new #Alvin pilots, circa 2006!
After completing his first solo dive as the deep-sea sub’s 36th pilot, Mark Spear was greeted with a muddy baptism by fellow pilot Gavin Eppard on the deck of @rv.atlantis
“Actually, I think I was lucky, because in the past, kitchen garbage has been used, and that smell lasts for days,” Spear later told WHOI’s Oceanus magazine.
Scientific observers used to endure a cold water soak after their first ALVIN dives, but the practice has been discontinued.
🤔What would you prefer– a mud bath, or a card?
📸by Jeremy Potter, NOAA Office of Ocean Exploration © WHOI
Nov 21
🪿🪶🧹It`s a bird... it`s a tickling device... it`s a bunch of #featherduster worms!
Like other #filter-eeders (and your household feather duster), these marine #polychaete #tubeworms help keep their habitat clean by filtering plankton and organic matter out of the water.
By waving their ornate "feathers," the worms create a gentle current that directs food toward their sticky tentacles. Once enough accumulates, it slides into their mouths. Who knew cleaning could be so satisfying?
This image, magnified about 15 times, is from a specimen in the Caribbean Sea.
📸 by David Caron © WHOI
Nov 20
💊🪸Could a #multivitamin help save #coralreefs? Preliminary data says... yes!
Like humans, these marine ecosystems rely on nutrients in the environment surrounding them. #WHOI #ReefSolutions experts have developed nutrient-infused tiles that diffuse trace metals like manganese and zinc to help boost corals` immune systems, making them more #resilient to heat stress!
📲 This #CoralReefAwareness Month, learn more about this ongoing work at the 🔗 in our profile!
#GiveReefsAChance
Nov 20
Ready for the #coolestjobever?
We`re seeking a #postdoc for our #IndigenousKnowledge program. Enrich understanding of marine ecosystems and promote sustainable stewardship of the ocean through #collaborativeresearch!
📲 Learn more and apply at the 🔗 in bio!
Nov 19
🍁🦃🍂 Are you getting into the #Thanksgiving spirit? Share those colorful, cozy vibes with a new #virtualbackground!
📲 A variety of seasonal imagery is available for free download at the 🔗 in our profile!
Nov 19
For a third year, #WHOI and @scripps_ocean have convened the #OceanPavilion at the world’s biggest climate conference– this year, at @cop29_azerbaijan. With partners from around the world, the Pavilion is a hub for discussion about the #challenges and #solutions facing our blue planet.
Together, we’re forming an ocean-climate nexus of organizations pushing the needle for #sciencebased, #marine policysolutions in the UN’s #climate negotiations.
📲Dive in at the 🔗 in our profile!
Nov 18
OUR WORK
WHOI is at the forefront of groundbreaking science and technology development, unlocking the mysteries of our ocean, its connections to life on Earth, and solutions it may hold to some of our most pressing environmental challenges.
Our scientists and engineers lead more than 800 concurrent projects, tackling some of the most challenging and important problems of our time, from climate change and ocean pollution to sustainable food and energy production.
We operate a fleet of research vessels and vehicles, including two large ships (R/V Neil Armstrong and R/V Atlantis), a smaller coastal research vessel, the iconic human-occupied submersible Alvin, and dozens of other underwater robots.
Through our higher education programs, including the prestigious MIT-WHOI Joint Program, we train new generations of ocean scientists, engineers, and leaders-providing access to cutting edge facilities and unparalleled access to the sea.
WHOI plays a leading role in ocean communications, sharing our insights and knowledge about the ocean to the general public, policymakers, educators, and more, so we can make wise decisions about our ocean, our planet, and our future.
FEATURED PROJECTS
We have over 1,000 scientists, engineers, technicians, and support staff working around the globe and cutting edge laboratories to push the boundaries of knowledge about the ocean.
Ocean and Climate Innovation Accelerator
Bringing together industry, academia, and philanthropy to develop and accelerate new climate change solutions.
Ocean Twilight Zone
Exploring the globe-spanning region beneath the sunlit upper ocean where life thrives
Ocean Worlds
Discovering the links between life in our ocean and the search for life beyond Earth
Marine Microplastics Initiative
Investigating the fate of microplastics and their impacts on marine life and human health
Super Reefs
Searching for corals around the world to help ensure a future for reefs in a warming ocean
Ocean Observatories Initiative
The NSF-funded program measures physical, chemical, geological and biological properties from the seafloor to the air-sea interface.
HADEX
Research and exploration of the deepest parts of the ocean, Earth’s final frontier
Reef Solutions
Working to protect corals and reverse the global decline of reef ecosystems