Call for Nominations
UNOLS
Maintaining an Environment of Respect Aboard Ships Committee (MERAS)
Cut-off date: July 3, 2025
The UNOLS Maintaining an Environment of Respect Aboard Ships (MERAS) Committee is seeking nomination of motivated individuals to fill a membership vacancy.
The MERAS Committee is the UNOLS committee dedicated to fostering a respectful, professional environment and cultivating a strong sense of community aboard vessels in the U.S. Academic Research Fleet (ARF). The committee provides guidance to the UNOLS community on resources and best practices to identify and overcome workplace barriers, supporting a productive workplace aboard ships. MERAS also assists the UNOLS Council, funding agencies, and vessel operators in reviewing and developing policies as needed, and responds to evolving needs and requests of these communities.
Examples of past initiatives include, but are not limited to, the development of the 3 module Shipboard Civility program, and recommending improvements to cruise planning documents related to shipboard conduct and the support of science and crew. Ongoing goals include developing a centralized resource library for ship users and operators, reviewing operational practices to reduce barriers to participation, advising the community as needed, and hosting an annual feedback session for the broader research fleet community.
Terms of service are three years, with the possibility of reappointment for a second term. MERAS holds monthly virtual meetings and occasional workshop sessions related to specific initiatives, including the annual community feedback session mentioned above.
Nominees should submit a brief statement of interest along with a 2-page CV to the UNOLS Office by July 3, 2025. The statement should highlight the nominee’s experience with shipboard operations, expedition planning, or related efforts that contribute to improving the working environment at sea. Self nominations are welcomed and encouraged.
For more information about MERAS, please visit the MERAS Committee website. For questions about committee responsibilities, contact Tara Clemente, Alice Doyle, or the UNOLS Office.
Committee members are appointed by the UNOLS Chair, based on recommendations from MERAS and with the concurrence of the UNOLS Council.
Tara Clemente tara@unols.org
Alice Doyle alice@unols.org
UNOLS Office office@unols.org