The Crustal Ocean Biosphere Research Accelerator (COBRA), an international research coordination network funded by the US National Science Foundation has announced their 2025 Master Class. It will be held virtually for 13 weeks beginning January 14, 2025 and ending April 8, 2025. Synchronous virtual sessions are held on Tuesdays from 2:00-4:00PM US eastern time using Zoom.

The “Master Class” trains early career researchers (ECRs) in deep-sea expedition planning from start to finish. The Master Class – delivered virtually over the course of 13 weeks – is designed to equip participants with the skills and tools to successfully design, propose, execute, and report on deep-sea oceanographic field research with a collaborative, just, equitable, diverse, and inclusive approach. Topics covered include reviewing the types of assets for conducting deep-sea research and exploration, funding and proposal writing tips, developing concepts through respectful and reciprocal engagement with others, cruise preparation how-to, at-sea operations planning, using telepresence for research and outreach, permitting and reporting, data management, and ocean law.

As an international network, COBRA seeks participation from US-based and international ECRs, with an intention to create a larger, more diverse pool of talent engaged in leading deep-sea research that addresses societal needs. In this context, an ECR is defined as a senior graduate student, postdoctoral scientist, junior faculty less than 10 years from their terminal degree, and/or other junior professionals such as an early career employee of a government, non-governmental organization/non-profit, or company. Participants selected for the virtual Master Class training opportunity are eligible to receive a US$2,000 stipend to support their participation.

For more information, please follow the link below!