Earlier this month, the 2014 University-National Oceanographic Laboratory System (UNOLS) Chief Scientist Training Cruise wrapped up, with the R/V Atlantic Explorer returning to her berth at BIOS after a nine day cruise between Barbados and Bermuda. The purpose of these cruises is to give early-career marine scientists, including PhD students, insight into what it takes to successfully plan and execute a research cruise—everything from acquiring funded ship time to mobilizing laboratory equipment and supplies, from reporting at sea to living aboard a working research vessel.

Three days before Hurricane Gonzalo hit Bermuda in October, BIOS researchers launched their new glider Anna directly into the storm’s path for a rare look at hurricane dynamics below the sea surface.

Around BIOS, and at St. David’s and St. George’s boatyards, Richard Smith is known by one name—Chief. The name reflects his role as chief engineer on the BIOS-operated vessel Atlantic Explorer, a role he held for 29 years, maintaining the vessel’s engineering and mechanical operations.

For young oceanographers, one of the most exciting components of their undergraduate and graduate education is the prospect of going to sea aboard a working research vessel, particularly if they get to conduct scientific research for their thesis or as a project technician. Unfortunately, for many students—particularly those at smaller institutions or not affiliated with larger, well-established research programs—obtaining funded shiptime remains a significant hurdle in their practical education.

Research vessels are one of ocean science’s most valuable workhorses, providing researchers with access to remote waters and safely carrying scientific equipment and personnel around the world. Modern vessels must also be capable of simultaneously supporting research in a variety of disciplines (e.g., oceanography, geology, engineering, and even atmospheric science). As a result, research vessels are outfitted for both general operations and discipline-specific tasks.

Growing up in South Rhode Island as one of five children, George Gunther, 55, spent most of his free time on a boat either fishing or tending to his family’s lobster traps. The saltwater soaked into his veins, so to speak, and when he turned 20, his father co-signed a loan for a 38-foot (12-meter) houseboat, which Gunther proceeded to live on for a decade.

Behind every successful ocean science research cruise—whether it’s for a day, a week, or multiple months—is a cadre of professionals ensuring that everything runs smoothly: the marine technicians. These individuals possess a unique set of skills that combines technical and engineering expertise, a broad understanding of ocean science, communication, and a willingness to often work long hours in the elements on the back deck of a ship.