During the course of their educational experience at MassBay, students become certified to SCUBA dive, operate a submersible robot, perform experiments in the field, and develop survival skills necessary for marine research. Twice a year, our program travels to Monserrat in the Caribbean to further hone their skills in the marine biotechnology field.
During the Spring Term of 2010, students from the Marine Biotech Program have been testing and improving upon our model of the Seaperch submersible robot designed by MIT. Our modifications have made it more maneuverable in the field.
Sea Perch field work
SCUBA training
Montserrat is a small island located in the Caribbean Sea; once a popular tourist destination, after the Soufriere Hills volcano erupted in 1995 much of the island has been deserted. However, the ecological effects on this beautiful island makes it an excellent site for research. Faculty and students visit it twice a year to research its unique ecosystem and organisms.
Montserrat volcano
Montserrat plants coated in volcanic ash
Students on volcanic field
MassBay Marine Biotechnology Program 
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