Egan Maritime Institute recently sponsored a group of Nantucket High School students to participate in the Marine Biological Laboratory’s (MBL) High School Science Discovery Program in Woods Hole, Massachusetts. The immersive three-day experience introduced students to hands-on, real-world scientific research alongside leading marine scientists.
“At Egan Maritime, our educational programs provide diverse, hands-on learning opportunities for Nantucket students at every stage of their academic journey,” said Carlisle Jensen, Executive Director of Egan Maritime Institute. “This program exemplifies the work we do beyond the classroom to help cultivate the next generation of maritime and science professionals.”
Under the guidance of Dr. Karen Echeverri, Associate Scientist at MBL, students explored advanced laboratory techniques including fluorescence microscopy, zebrafish development, and CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing. Participants successfully knocked out three genes in zebrafish embryos and observed the resulting developmental effects, gaining firsthand insight into modern genetic research.
“I’ve never seen them before. They look unworldly,” said student Edward Holland while examining a translucent sea anemone under the microscope, capturing the sense of wonder sparked by hands-on discovery. Another student remarked on the benefits of the laboratory setting, “I learned in a real lab experience what CRISPR is, not just notes and reading at school.”
Nantucket High School marine science teacher Heather Ring and Egan Maritime educator Sonia Scherr emphasized the value of participating alongside students.
“Heather and I enjoyed doing the labs alongside the students; our participation provided a model for them while allowing us to learn too,” said Scherr. “We’re thrilled that Nantucket High School students were able to take part in MBL’s High School Science Discovery Program, and we hope to continue this partnership on an annual basis. The program encourages curiosity and critical thinking and gives students a firsthand understanding of what scientific inquiry entails and why it matters.”
Beyond laboratory work, students toured MBL’s facilities, including the Marine Resources Center, axolotl room, and Automated Aquatics Facility. They also participated in a career panel with MBL postdoctoral researchers and research assistants and engaged in thoughtful discussions on the ethics of gene editing.
“The partnership with Egan Maritime has provided many opportunities for our students to engage in applied learning in the field of marine science,” said Mandy Hilemn, Principal of Nantucket High School. “We are extremely fortunate to have Egan Maritime’s generous support, which greatly enriches our students’ educational experiences.”
The program is open to Nantucket High School sophomores through seniors who have completed introductory biology. Through its partnership with MBL, Egan Maritime Institute continues to expand hands-on STEM opportunities for local students and hopes to offer the program annually.
Founded in 1888, the Marine Biological Laboratory is a private, nonprofit research and education institution in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, and an affiliate of the University of Chicago. MBL’s mission is to advance scientific discovery by exploring fundamental biology, understanding biodiversity and the environment, and informing the human condition through research and education.
Each year, MBL brings together scientists and students from around the world to collaborate on groundbreaking research in cell biology, neuroscience, regenerative biology, microbiology, and marine ecology. Its programs are internationally recognized for their immersive, discovery-based approach to science education.
Egan’s educational programs provide diverse, hands-on learning opportunities for Nantucket students at every stage of their academic journey. Our mission is twofold: to connect students with the Island’s rich maritime environment beyond the classroom and to cultivate the next generation of maritime professionals. By equipping local youth with the skills and experiences needed for careers on the water, we strengthen their futures and our coastal community.
Thanks to generous donors, Egan’s education programs are 100% free. If you want to invest in transformative educational experiences for Nantucket youth, click here.