2015 After Hours Lectures
Otherworldly Oceans
(October 29, 2015) The ultimate frontier for ocean research may lie outside our own planet. Dr. Mary Voytek, Senior Scientist for Astrobiology at NASA, wraps up VIMS' 75th anniversary lecture series by exploring the possibility of discovering life on Jupiter's moon Europa, using stunning images from U.S. spacecraft and data from extreme environments on Earth—including the Chesapeake Bay Impact Crater.
Antarctic Edge: 70° South
(September 24, 2015) VIMS professor Deborah Steinberg introduces the film that tells the behind-the-scenes story of long-term ecological research at Palmer Station on the West Antarctic Peninsula. The film, by noted Rutgers film-maker Dena Seidel, is now available on DVD, Netflix, and iTunes.
Oysters: Chesapeake Bay’s once and future king
(July 30, 2015) Professor Mark Luckenbach, Director of Research and Advisory Service at VIMS, traces the history of oysters in Chesapeake Bay, from their reign as a keystone species and dietary staple; through their decline due to overharvesting, habitat degradation and disease; to their recent resurgence as a farmed and wild-caught species.Video not available due to technical difficulties.
Filming the Giant Squid
(June 25, 2015) Dr. Edith Widder, leader of the first expedition to film the giant squid Architeuthis, describes her unique approach to capturing live footage of this elusive deep-sea predator. Widder, an expert in bioluminescence and founder of the Ocean Research & Conservation Association, has made more than 250 dives in submersibles, with coverage by BBC, PBS, Discovery, and National Geographic.Video not available due to copyright limitations.
The Gulf Oil Spill: Five years on
(April 30, 2015) VIMS alumnus Michael Carron continues VIMS' 75th anniversary lecture series with a look at the immediate and long-term effects of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Carron is Director of the Gulf of Mexico Research Initiative. View archived video online.
Beautiful swimmers: blue crabs in Chesapeake Bay
(March 26, 2015) VIMS Professor Rom Lipcius continues VIMS' 75th anniversary celebration with a look at the history and future of blue crabs in Chesapeake Bay. Video not available due to technical difficulties.
Chesapeake Bay: Then, Now, and Next
(January 22, 2015) VIMS professor Carl Hershner kicks-off VIMS' 75th Anniversary celebration with a look at Chesapeake Bay past, present, and future. View archived video online.