A Fresh Look for a Classic Facility

Since its construction in 1977, the Scott Lab has served as a facility for ocean science teaching and learning for hundreds of students of all ages, from primary through graduate school. The 700-square-foot lab, named after George T. Scott, president of the then-Bermuda Biological Station for Research (BBSR) from 1967 through 1969, is located near the Institute’s waterfront, offering convenient access to research vessels and the waters of Ferry Reach.

After more than four decades of use, the Scott Lab—one of the most heavily utilized teaching labs at BIOS—received a round of much-needed renovations, which lasted from March 25 through April 26, 2019. During this four-week period, the BIOS maintenance team installed new lab tables, chairs, and a whiteboard; constructed a new microscope storage cabinet; conducted a variety of IT hardware upgrades; and rewired the air conditioning and electrical systems.

“The new lab facility has been crucial for us to expand our Curriculum Enrichment Program offerings,” said Kaitlin Noyes, director of BIOS’s Ocean Academy. “As a direct result of the renovations, we were able to offer our new Adventures in Plankton program to 80 local students over the summer in collaboration with Planet Math, Aries Sports Camp, and Quality Gymnastics.”

Samantha de Putron, assistant director of University Programs at BIOS, added “The Scott Lab is our main teaching lab for University Programs courses and is used in a number of capacities that have all benefited from the renovation, particularly with regard to the increased counter surface area and improved seating. The new microscope storage area has also added space and will help ensure the longevity of our equipment.”