Support Mariner Marine Science Students

Who We Are

We are the Mariner Marine Science Lab of Mariner High School in Everett, Washington. The goal of our project is to give the high school students you see in this picture and others not shown, an opportunity to engage in an authentic research project. We will learn common DNA laboratory techniques such as DNA isolation, polymerase chain reaction of microsatellite DNA sequences, and data collection using a capillary electrophoresis genetic analyzer. More importantly, this project will help us grow as learners by working as bench scientists. As Aleeza (front right in picture) says, “I learn hands-on about biology and chemistry, which provides a different type of enrichment that the classroom cannot offer.” Kayla (center, peace sign) adds, “I am able to befriend people new to me in the lab and make long-lasting meaningful connections.” Our working in the lab environment will help us beyond high school. As Michael (not pictured) says, “The lab has taught me discipline and commitment due to the rather strict time schedule, which I will bring with me to my future career endeavors.”

The Science

In collaboration with marine biologists and geneticists, we will investigate the genetic structure of an inconspicuous little fish, the shiner perch (above). By doing so, we will contribute to our knowledge of the Salish Sea. Much is known about charismatic species such as killer whales and salmon. Yet little is known about the species which support them. Species such as herring, surf smelt, sand lance, and shiner perch. These species, also known as forage fish, which after the plankton, form the foundation of the Salish Sea food web.

A first step to understanding the Salish Sea is to discover the diversity between and within species. Our research is useful because it will reveal the genetic diversity within shiner perch. The Mariner Marine Science Lab has a long-term goal to produce a multi-species genetic profile of Salish Sea organisms while introducing students to the practice of science, genetics, laboratory skills, and marine resource conservation.

Our Goal

We are asking for your help to purchase the supplies needed to conduct this research. Our work is solely funded through fundraising. With your help, we will secure the financial support to complete the shiner perch project, maintain our equipment, begin work on another Salish Sea species, and grow as students.

Thank you for your support,

Aleeza, Kayla, Amar, Sean, Lemon, Eros, Johnny, Vivian, Tasmeen, Cameron, Valeria, Joseph, Aarti, Tracy, Dafny, and Michael