Last week, we proudly concluded our pilot course in marine surveying, led by our diving team. Designed to expand the expertise and diving skills of students who have already completed the AAUS scientific diving course, this course offered both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in marine surveys.

Students were trained in the technical operation of marine survey equipment and learned a variety of survey techniques. They also gained hands-on experience in planning and executing full marine surveys.

The course covered emergency preparedness as well, with students learning to address potential issues such as losing survey tools, being separated from a dive partner, performing emergency procedures, making emergency ascents, and even conducting night surveys.

This pilot program was instructed by Dr. Ziv Zemah-Shamir and PhD candidate Hagai Nativ from the Morris Kahn Marine Research Station, under the academic supervision of Prof. Tali Mass. The diving operations were supported by Eran Rosen, the diving officer at the School of Marine Sciences.

Upon completion, students received “Marine Surveyor” certification from the Israeli Diving Federation and will earn one academic credit upon submission of their final projects.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the Israeli Diving Federation and especially to Dr. Boaz Mayzel, Shlomi Palnitsky, Eitan Maharam, and Miri Gaizinger for their continuous support throughout this pilot initiative.

This program equips our students with vital practical tools for marine research, and we can’t wait to see them apply their skills as certified marine surveyors!