17DSBS Travel Award

For the 17th Deep-Sea Biology Symposium, a horde of scientists from around the world descended on Hong Kong. I was one of these scientists coming from the United States where I am currently a postdoctoral researcher at Western Washington University. This was my first time in Hong Kong and to get there I took the longest flight I have ever taken (~13 hrs). The week of the symposium flew by as we dove into the science, caught up with old colleagues and friends, made new connections, and explored the beautiful city of Hong Kong. I was excited to share the newest results from our work on microbial biofilms and larvae at the East Pacific Rise hydrothermal vents and I am happy that my presentation was early in the week before I became to sleep deprived. No matter how many times I give talks or stand up in front of audiences, I still get nervous, but conferences like this one are so important and inspiring, especially as an early career scientist, because you come away with great feedback, new ideas, and a network of people that all love science as much as you do. You can’t help but return home with motivation, despite the fact that you probably need a break. Not only was the science terrific, but the local organizing committee at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) made everything run smoothly, fed us wonderful food, and made the overall symposium a success. Outside of the lecture halls, some of my favorite experiences of the week included visiting the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark, watching horseracing at the Happy Valley Racecourse, walking the busy streets of the city, and eating so much delicious food. I could have spent a lot longer being a tourist in Hong Kong but that just means I’ll have to come back for another trip in the future. I greatly appreciate the 17DSBS travel award that allowed me to attend in person and get this amazing experience, I am looking forward to the next symposium and another adventure!