Integrated Ecosystem
Research
To support innovative multi-disciplinary research to improve understanding of the complex mechanistic processes that influence the structure and function of marine ecosystems.
The Arctic Integrated Ecosystem Reserach Program looked at how physical changes in the ocean influence the flow of energy through the marine food web in the Bering Strait, Chukchi Sea, and western Beaufort Sea from 2017-2021.
The Bering Sea Project, a partnership between the North Pacific Research Board and the National Science Foundation, sought to understand the impacts of climate change and dynamic sea ice cover on the eastern Bering Sea ecosystem.
The Gulf of Alaska Project tested three main hypotheses about the survival and recruitment of five focal groundfish species (Pacific cod, Pacific ocean perch, walleye pollock, arrowtooth flounder, sablefish) during their first year of life.
Phases of Integrated ecosystem Research
ASSESSMENT PHASE
During the assessment phase, existing knowledge is synthesized and research needs are identified.
Research Implementation
During the research implementation phase, data are collected and integrated analyses are conducted. The research implementation phase is typically five years in duration and includes 2-3 years of field data collection.
Synthesis
During the synthesis phase, data and ideas that resulted from the research implementation phase are further leveraged to provide an opportunity to address new research questions and conduct integrated analyses that will inform resource management.