Keller BLOOM 2012 - 06.28.2012

An original COSEE-OS partner, Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences, hosts the Keller BLOOM Program for high school juniors, currently in its 24th year. The BLOOM (Bigelow Laboratory Orders Of Magnitude) Program provides 16 high school juniors the opportunity to conduct hands-on laboratory and field studies, including a one-day research cruise. COSEE-OS sponsors two students per year from School District Collaboration schools to participate. This year's participants were Leah Jones (Bangor High School) and Allison Scully (Waterville High School).

Video: The Keller Bloom Program Class of 2012

The BLOOM Program was started by Bigelow Scientist, Maureen Keller and Trustee Emeritus, James McLoughlin to provide students with a real world research experience. BLOOM offers Maine students with demonstrated aptitude in science an opportunity to participate in an inquiry-based marine science program.

BLOOM participants learn field sampling on a research cruise in the Sheepscot River estuary and perform subsequent data analysis using state-of-the-art instrumentation in the lab; on the final day the students give a public presentation on their findings. The students also participate in formal and informal discussions on topics such as public policy and scientific ethics. They also attend a Marine Science Career Night, where they learn about undergraduate marine science programs in Maine and related career possibilities. Students who participate in BLOOM will leave equipped with a better understanding of oceanography and the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a marine or science related careers.

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