There are several beneficial reasons to work with aquatic sensors:

• Sensor development brings together scientists from a variety of disciplines to work towards a common goal 

• New sensor technologies have expanded the observational capabilities of scientists

• Sensors can provide frequent, real-time data collection even in unfavorable environments

• Sensors allow for rapid in situ detection of the original, unaltered material

• Experience with sensors will aid in future research and career goals as sensors become more widely used throughout the scientific community 

“Sensors and sensor networks are expanding the temporal and spatial scale at which we can observe the world. As technology advances, we are able to measure in finer, more accurate scales, for longer periods of time, in geographic areas never before possible.”

– Jeremy Mack, IGERT Trainee, Zoology Department

 “Sensors allow scientists to take measurements in situ, which minimizes the potential for interferences related to sample transport, storage, and analysis.”

– Laura Webb, IGERT Trainee, Geology Department

“From information gathered by sensors, we can implement ways to improve water quality for people as well as surrounding flora and fauna.”

– Sarah Hicks, IGERT Trainee, Chemical Physics Department

“Sensors encompass many fields of study, including biologists and geologists using them to measure physical and chemical environmental parameters over time, as well as chemists and physicists developing the materials and technology necessary to create novel sensing systems.”

– David Davis, IGERT Trainee, Chemistry Department

“Many of today's novel technologies, when coupled with the cyber-infrastructure to support the data streams, provide new insights into how ecosystems function and change in response to a number of environmental pressures. This is critically important as ecosystems face more pressure than ever before from a wide range of forces - from global climate change and land use modification and habitat loss.”