Go Forth and BLOOM

This afternoon, 16 Maine high school juniors graduated Bigelow Laboratory ’s Keller BLOOM (our 37th cohort of the long-running, successful program!).

Prior to collecting their certificates from Senior Research Scientist Nicole Poulton, each student presented their findings in front of an audience of scientists, family, friends, and community members, sharing insights into the ocean science they conducted over the past week.

Their observations from four sampling sites on and around the Sheepscot River yielded a wealth of knowledge about nutrients, viruses, phytoplankton, and zooplankton, shedding light on the foundations of ocean health while equipping each individual with key research skills. Beyond research, these young folks were also able to connect with other budding scientists from across the state while having some good-natured fun at our campus in East Boothbay.

Congratulations to the Keller BLOOM class of ‘26: we look forward to seeing the big waves you’re going to make!