Research Activity Panel

View of the Big Sur coastline
View of Bixby Bridge from Hurricane Point, Big Sur. Photo: Steve Lonhart/NOAA

The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Research Activity Panel is a working group of the advisory council. The Research Activity Panel has several key objectives:

  • Advise sanctuary staff on science issues that will influence policy (e.g., address research questions in the management plan)
  • Review research issues and documents for the advisory council and sanctuary staff
  • Facilitate the exchange of regional research information and create opportunities for project coordination
  • Convey regional research needs and opportunities to the advisory council

The Research Activity Panel is composed of 23 representatives from regional research institutions and organizations. Administrative support of the Research Activity Panel is provided by sanctuary staff.

Members
Meetings

History, Protocols, and Activities

For more information about the Research Activity Panel, contact Erica Burton, research ecologist, erica.burton@noaa.gov.

Ed Ricketts Memorial Award and Lecture

Ed Ricketts was born in Chicago in 1897 and studied ecology at the University of Chicago. He moved to the Monterey Peninsula in 1923 and opened Pacific Biological Laboratories, providing specimens and slides to research institutions. Ricketts met John Steinbeck in 1930 and became a major influence on the author's writing and philosophy, serving as the inspiration for many notable Steinbeck characters. On their famous trip aboard the Western Flyer, Ricketts and Steinbeck explored the Gulf of California and collaborated on the book "The Sea of Cortez." Ricketts also wrote "Between Pacific Tides," an ecological handbook of intertidal marine life that is still used as a textbook at many universities. The scientific catalog of organisms documented by Ricketts, both aboard the Western Flyer and during his other studies, has been invaluable to marine scientists. His work and unconventionally holistic approach to science has inspired generations of researchers.

Ricketts Award Criteria

The Ed Ricketts Memorial Award was created to honor scientists who have exhibited exemplary work throughout their career and advanced knowledge, appreciation, conservation and/or protection of the marine environment.

The Ricketts Award recognizes lifetime achievement in the fields of marine science conservation, or education, based in part on Ed Ricketts’ exemplary ability to study natural history and share knowledge in a compelling and holistic manner.

Recipients are selected by the Research Activity Panel of Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Nomination and selection processes shall consider the following:

Achievement and Sharing of Knowledge

  • Contribution to, and impact upon, field of study
  • Ability to give an engaging and inspirational lecture

Collaboration and Engagement

  • Exceptional collaboration, communication and engagement
  • Engagement with all ways of learning about and understanding the natural world

Mentorship and Development

  • Active mentorship and development of all learners

Nominees do not have to be local to the Monterey Bay area.

2024 Recipient

two people standing with one holding plaque
Recipient of the 37th Ed Ricketts Memorial Award, Dan Costa, and Research Activity Panel Chair, Brandon Southall. Photo: Amity Wood/NOAA

Dr. Daniel P. Costa - University of California Santa Cruz
"Beyond Pacific Tides: How Technology Has Provided a Window into the Secret Life of Marine Mammals"

Webinar Recording

Additional Information