New Discoveries Enabled by the Emergence of High‐Resolution, Long‐Term Interdisciplinary Ocean Observations

This review describes the author's path leading toward a career in science and four decades of experiences. Some of the important people influencing my intellectual development are mentioned. Crossings of disciplinary boundaries were keys to novel research efforts. In particular, new areas of research such as geophysical fluid dynamics and bio‐optics were embraced and used to advantage. Likewise, identifying and utilizing relevant new technologies enabled unprecedented interdisciplinary high‐resolution, long‐term measurements at depth in the ocean. Early on, my group utilized satellite‐based as well as in situ data sets to advantage. In addition, with colleagues, we conducted modeling as well as observational studies. A few examples of resulting scientific breakthroughs involving interdisciplinary observations are presented. In addition, our time‐space diagrams for ocean processes and platforms have been utilized for ocean experimental design and modeling. Finally, some career advice for future generations and my unconventional teaching methods using therapy dogs are discussed.