Leonard Pace discusses SOI’s new submission process for Expressions of Interest for ship time for scientists and technologists, the updated proposal review process, and other key guidelines. See more here.

Q&A Session Recordings

Waypoint 1 with Dr. Jyotika Virmani & Leonard Pace (moderated by Allison Miller)

This informative session addressed questions concerning the call for expressions of interest from scientists and technology developers—with an emphasis on local scientists joining the research missions and partnerships with international networks and philanthropic organizations.  

Questions deliberated included the flexibility of the geographic boundaries on the 10-year map [4:02], the availability of a shapefile or the latitude and longitude in a csv file for more accurate expedition planning [4:59], how exact the areas of research should be and if EOIs need to specify if there is flexibility in that range [5:45], if SOI will accept multiple EOIs for different years/regions that are connected [7:24], what he higher limit is in terms of latitude south for Antarctica [8:43], when Falkor (too) might return to the 2023 region [10:17], how long can the ship stay at sea [12:41], the new EOI format and suggestions for what should be emphasized [13:38], if there are opportunities for marine roboticists or engineers to submit EOIs [16:52], how the review process works at SOI for EOIs and proposals [19:16], an analysis of probabilities of success when submitting proposals [23:52], the importance of connecting to local communities in the regions research will be conducted [26:28], and the abbreviated timeline for 2024 proposals.

Waypoint 2 with Dr. Jyotika Virmani & Leonard Pace (moderated by Allison Miller)

In this session, we guide viewers through the proposal submission process for scientists and technology developers interested in embarking on Falkor (too), provide valuable insight into the evaluation process for proposals, emphasizing the need for alignment with the SOI’s objectives and seven strategic focus areas, as well as underscoring the significance of inclusive capacity building.

Many questions were submitted, and the panel provided additional information on the strategic focus areas and if they will change over time [2:33], what goes into the evaluation of EOIs and proposals submitted to SOI [3:48], if scientists have input into the additional people on board through programs such as the Berths of Opportunity or Artist-at-Sea [6:47], what support is available for those going to sea are responsible for dependent care [9:01], how SOI is making connections with scientists and local communities in the region s where Falkor (too) will be operating [11:14], what the vessel’s berthing capacity is and how SOI will work to maximize that space [15:17], tips for proposers interested in using equipment not current on the ship [17:50], advice for those interested in the 2023/24 operating regions [20:22], how open data sharing requirements may impact the timing of post expedition publications [22:28], and what opportunities there are for nonscientists to join an expedition [27:07].

Helpful links referenced in the How to Apply for Ship Time I – Scientists & Technologists sessions:

Main 2023 symposium page