Sophia Merrifield

Name and Institution:
Sophia Merrifield, PhD candidate, MIT/WHOI Joint Program

Academic background:
I have a physics and mechanical engineering degree from Yale University and am currently finishing a PhD in physical oceanography.

Current Area of Interest:
For my dissertation I analyze field data collected in the Drake Passage region of the Southern Ocean to understand upper ocean processes that lead to turbulence.  I am interested in the oceanic response to extreme atmospheric forcing and in adapting observational platforms to study regions of the ocean that are highly energetic and under-sampled.

Why did you sign up for the CSW?
I signed up for the CSW to learn more about the logistical side of running a research cruise and to meet other scientists working with robotic platforms in the ocean.  I was particularly interested in the experience of sailing on a regional class vessel with scientists in varied disciplines.

What did you learn?
This program taught me that every ship, crew, and research program is unique and evolves throughout a cruise.   I had to assess the risk and consequences associated with a deployment in deteriorating weather conditions.  Going to sea is a combination of preparedness and mental fortitude in the face of close quarters, high expectations, and unpredictable outcomes.  As Art aptly put it, “take chances, make mistakes, and get messy.”