Fast Five: Quick questions with Dr Carlie Wiener

Before she speaks at this Thursday's free, virtual Ocean Talk, we caught up Dr Carlie Wiener, Director of Communications and Engagement Strategy at Schmidt Ocean Institute to ask her some quick fire questions.  

1. Could you give an overview of what you do?

I absolutely love my job! I have the pleasure of communicating the science that takes place on Schmidt Ocean Institute's research vessel Falkor to all different types of audiences. Every day brings something new, like discovering the world's longest marine species – a 150 foot Siphonophore, to mapping some of the most remote marine environments. 

Check out this beautiful *giant* siphonophore Apolemia recorded on #NingalooCanyons expedition. It seems likely that this specimen is the largest ever recorded, and in strange UFO-like feeding posture. Thanks @Caseywdunn for info @wamuseum @GeoscienceAus @CurtinUni @Scripps_Ocean pic.twitter.com/QirkIWDu6S

— Schmidt Ocean (@SchmidtOcean) April 6, 2020

2. Have you always been interested in the ocean?

I have always had a fascination with the ocean. The underwater world has been a lifelong passion of mine, and I love that I can now pass that on to my son. 

3. What has been your career highlight?

Last year, I was able to testify as an expert witness for a Hearing on Ocean Exploration for the United States House of Representatives Committee on Science, Space, and Technology in Washington DC. 

The control room during a test dive for remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) 'Subastian' deployment. Image courtesy Schmidt Ocean Institute

4. What's it like being aboard RV Falkor?

Falkor is like no other research vessel you have sailed on. My favourite place is the science control room, where all the action happens! Imagine 32 screens showing real time footage of the deep sea and the mapping that has taken place. You have scientists, underwater robot pilots, and marine technicians all huddled into the room and during a live dive the energy is contagious. 

5. Without giving too much away before the Ocean Talk, what is one thing you have discovered in Australia's deep sea?

Well, the big spoiler is that it is not just one thing, but many. You will be blown away by the images and findings that occur right in your backyard. 

Register for this Thursday's free virtual Ocean Talk to hear about the amazing discoveries and surprises made in Australia's deep sea canyons and coral ecosystems by Schmidt Ocean Institute's research vessel Falkor.

Header image: Dr Carlie Wiener (second from left) speaking at the House Committee Hearing. Image courtesy Catherine Anderson