Institute Insights 2024: Issue 2

The Port Aransas newspaper known as South Jetty has provided award-winning news to all since 1971. The South Jetty has run news stories about the University of Texas Marine Science Institute (UTMSI) for decades. In the spring of 2023, the South Jetty unveiled a new bimonthly column, Institute Insights, to share stories about science from a staff member’s point of view.

By establishing this column, UTMSI focuses on engaging with the public by bridging the gap between scientific knowledge and public understanding through articles that inform, educate, and entertain. Articles are written by a rotating cast of UTMSI faculty members, graduate students, and staff.

For the second year in a row, Institute Insights 2024: Issue 2 continues to bring readers firsthand accounts of marine science in action. The 2024 stories highlight ongoing research, fieldwork adventures, and the passion UTMSI scientists bring to their work.

The Director of UTMSI, Ed Buskey, welcomes the opportunity to further public outreach. “We are excited about this opportunity to communicate with our local community and visitors,” Buskey said. “The column gives us a unique opportunity to personalize the science that goes on here and help forge a tighter bond with our neighbors and tourists. I think I can speak for our scientists and staff when I say that we love what we do and want to share it with the broader community. Marine science can be exciting, sometimes boring, but often inspiring, and we hope your readers enjoy the stories to come.”