Promoting a mechanistic understanding of the chemical currencies in marine microbial ecosystems in the context of a changing planet and through increased participation in ocean sciences
Mission Statement
One-quarter of carbon derived from photosynthesis on Earth cycles rapidly through a pool of seawater metabolites generated by the activities of microbes. These molecules help govern the global carbon cycle, provide life-supporting nutrients, and support the function of marine food webs that ensure a vital and healthy ocean.
The Center for Chemical Currencies of a Microbial Planet (C-CoMP) promotes a deeper understanding of the chemicals and microbial processes that underpin ocean ecosystems and the global carbon cycle by leveraging recent advances in analytical and data sciences, incorporating new ocean sampling technologies, using an open-science framework, and engaging educators and policy-makers.
Broadening Participation
C-CoMP is committed to broadening participation in the ocean sciences. We are working to expand ocean literacy in K-12 populations and in the general public, expand undergraduate involvement in ocean science research, and improve the transition to graduate programs in ocean science. Our approach involves a combination of conducting targeted education research and establishing C-CoMP undergraduate and graduate research programs that (1) integrate academic, social, and professional development, and (2) provide opportunities to explore research as a career regardless of social identity. C-CoMP programs provide opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds and with a diversity of expertise, experiences, and viewpoints to participate in authentic research experiences that address problems of societal relevance (e.g., Earth’s carbon cycle and climate system).
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Science and Education Themes
In the News
JUNE 20, 2023
Research Week Opens the World of Oceanography for C-CoMP Students (opens in new window)
BIOS Currents Newsletter
JANUARY 10, 2023
Bridge-to-PhD program at WHOI opens doors for new scientists (opens in new window)
Oceanus
JUNE 9, 2022
WHOI-led projects receive UN endorsement as part of Decade of Ocean Science (opens in new window)
WHOI News Release
SEPTEMBER 23, 2021
NSF grant will support deeper understanding of ocean ecosystems (opens in new window)
Boston College News
SEPTEMBER 17, 2021
UVA to Play Leading Role in New NSF Center to Study the Ocean, Climate Change (opens in new window)
University of Virginia, UVA Today
Award Information and Disclaimer
C-CoMP is a National Science Foundation Science and Technology Center (Award # 2019589) that is based at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed on this website are those of C-CoMP and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.