Collaboration During a Time Of Separation: How Ocean Science Needs Connection

In spite of overwhelming news about the adverse effects related to anthropogenic influence, scientists refuse to be pessimistic. We realize that, if humans are capable of destruction, we are also able to come together and solve the most pressing issues of our time. However, the past 18 months have allowed collaboration to take place only virtually. While this has encouraged greater communicative flexibility and outreach, extended periods of in-person collaboration have been prevented. Prohibitions on travel and gatherings have deprived early career scientists of opportunities to form new connections and face the difficulties and rewards of teamwork. Here we present the story of a diverse group of students that came together in a time of separation to take on challenging projects at the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences (BIOS). We want to share our perspective on what it means to collaborate through an intensive summer course on coral reef ecology from the position of individuals at various career stages ranging from undergraduate to post doctoral students and professionals. This summer course offered in-depth teaching about coral reef systems ecology through lectures, lab experiments, and field observations. During the course, students were divided into working groups that rotated through various research responsibilities in a hands-on learning approach. The teamwork required for these tasks allowed us to develop a shared feeling of commitment towards the success of the research project. Bringing together students from various backgrounds and experience levels increased the flow of ideas circulating in the group. Daily working routines were naturally fuelled by empathy, mutual assistance and encouragement. Our story follows our decisions to join the summer course, the work we did at BIOS, and how that in-person opportunity has led us to stay connected beyond the course, ultimately impacting our future careers and strengthening international collaborations.