The Keller-BLOOM Program
A Week of Ocean Research for Maine High School Juniors
Now accepting applications!
Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences in West Boothbay Harbor, Maine will host its twenty-first annual internship in marine science for Maine high school juniors from Sunday, May 16 to Thursday, May 20, 2010.
Background
The BLOOM (Bigelow Laboratory Orders Of Magnitude) program was begun by Bigelow researcher Maureen Keller and Trustee Emeritus James McLoughlin to provide students with real world ocean research experience. BLOOM offers Maine students with demonstrated aptitude in science the opportunity to participate in an inquiry-based marine science program. Students are involved in laboratory workshops and field studies, including a one-day research cruise. Special lectures and field trips are also planned.
Program Goals
Participants learn field sampling in a variety of marine environments and perform subsequent data collection and analysis using state-of-the-art instrumentation. In addition, participants are involved in formal and informal discussions on science and public policy, scientific ethics and career options. Participants gain a better understanding of methods of investigation, broaden and strengthen their interest in science, and learn to present their research to scientists, their peers and the public.
Who Should Apply
Maine home-schooled, public and private high school juniors who are excited about marine science should apply. Sixteen students are selected to participate; the Laboratory, under chaperoned conditions, provides room and board.
Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated based upon academic record, level of interest and communication skills as evidenced by a written essay and two letters of recommendation.
Application and Requirements
Applications for the 2010 program are currently being accepted and are available for download in PDF format (132 kb). The deadline for receipt of the application and supplemental materials is Friday, April 2, 2010.
A complete application consists of the following:
1) Application form.
2) Official transcript of high school work to date
3) Two letters of recommendation -- one must be from a current science teacher
4) A one page (typed, double-spaced) essay that answers the following question: What marine invertebrate would you like to be and why?
For more information, contact Rebecca Fowler at 633-9600 or rfowler@bigelow.org.