Imagine working onboard the world's most sophisticated research drill ship on 2-month-long scientific cruises. Each IODP expedition has approximately 15 marine laboratory and computer specialists who operate the scientific instruments onboard the JOIDES Resolution and provides round-the-clock technical and database support. The laboratory specialists also help carry the 10-meter-long sections of core from the deck to the catwalk, where it is split into more manageable 1.5-meter-long sections, and then on to the various laboratories, where it is curated, measured, photographed, and described. Because drilling operations continue 24 hours a day, the technical personnel have to work in 12-hour-long shifts to help the scientists. During each cruise, the ship leaves from one port and usually returns to a different port. So all sea-going IODP employees have to travel to meet the ship wherever it is, resulting in trips to unusual places. Most marine laboratory and computer specialists sail every second or third expedition, so they spend 4-6 months a year at sea. Without their support, the scientists participating in each expedition would have a hard time making all the necessary measurements, writing their research reports, and achieving their objectives.

Staff Name: Margaret Hastedt

Education: B.S. in Geology, University of Michigan; M.S. in Geology, Texas A&M University

Hometown: Auburn, New York

IODP Experience: Marine Lab Specialist (6 years; ODP), Marine Computer Specialist (7 years; ODP/IODP), Research Specialist (IODP)

Interests: Margaret is a pilot and has been building an airplane in her spare time, travel (Places visited: Alaska, Australia, Azores Islands, Barbados, Bermuda, Brazil, Canada, Canary Islands, France, Guatemala, Hawaii, Hong Kong, Japan, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Marshall Islands, Mexico, New Zealand, Panama Canal, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Senegal, South Africa, United Kingdom)

Downloadable File(s):