As a student at the Australian National University, my exposure to geoscience has been shaped by opportunities that demonstrate how research can deliver impact. The ANZIC Marine Geoscience Masterclass in Fiordland, New Zealand was a pivotal experience that has shaped my outlook on applied research and the international connections it fosters.
As one of 25 participants across five countries, we took part in an intensive program supporting the International Continental Scientific Drilling Program (ICDP) FACET proposal, aiming to drill New Zealand fjords to better understand carbon cycling, climate change, and environmental transitions, with drilling anticipated to begin this year. Over twelve days, we collected seismic, water column, and sediment data aboard RV Polaris II, followed by laboratory work in the Otago Repository for Core Analysis at the University of Otago.
This experience demonstrated how student training generates meaningful scientific contributions, and builds the skills needed to address environmental challenges. It also highlights the role of partnerships like the Australian and New Zealand International Scientific Drilling Consortium (ANZIC), creating pathways to impactful research.
I will discuss the role of immersive training and fostering international connections in translating to scientific impact,and its contributions to research shaping our understanding of changing oceans.