RAMP 2012 Expediton Scientist Profile –
Jason Helyer, Graduate Student, University of Washington

Jason Helyer. Credit: C. Wiener and M. Onuma

Role on the expedition:
Benthic Monitoring Team Diver

Previous experience in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands:
I have worked in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands for the past five years on the Reef Assessment and Monitoring Program (RAMP) and been observing these reefs since 2007. As a result, I have a good understanding of the potential changes and shifts in the ecosystem.

Why is this research important:
The Northwestern Hawaiian Islands is a pristine area and serves as a great reference point for the main Hawaiian Islands. It allows us to check and see how the corals are doing out here without human influences like runoff and pollution, that way when we look at the health status of the reefs in the main Hawaiian Islands we can differentiate between natural and human causes of degradation.

Favorite food or meal on the ship:
Mongolian Night

Why I love science:
I love science because it allows me to ask questions, and I love asking questions.

Advice for future marine scientists:
Go to the ocean, swim and observe whatever interests you. Ask questions, find someone who is studying it and volunteer.

Favorite part about being at sea:
The huge schools of uluas, they act like they are from a different world, so inquisitive. Also, I love that there are no cell phones or connection with the main land.

Click here to go back to the Scientist Profiles.