Project Grant 2234001

This two-year, $159,271 Project Grant from the National Science Foundation Division of Polar Programs will support research into microstructure observations of vertical mixing and heat fluxes in the Arctic Ocean. Funded through the NSF's Polar Programs CFDA 47.078, which supports basic research in the polar regions, this award will analyze an existing dataset of 264 shipboard turbulence profiles collected on two Arctic Observing Network cruises. Researchers at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography will develop new methods to interpret these unique Arctic Ocean data and assess vertical mixing strengths in boundary currents. The work aims to quantify any correlations between mixing and boundary current water temperatures, which have risen in recent years. It will also identify regional mixing patterns and changes versus prior studies. Outcomes seek to advance understanding of Arctic Ocean mixing processes and vertical heat transport under climate change. Additionally, early career researchers will gain experience, and the Birch Aquarium collaboration may produce a public exhibit on Arctic climate impacts.