[2S01e] 10. ASPIRE - Part 6

5:54 PM - 5:57 PM JST(8:54 AM - 8:57 AM UTC)

[2ASPR-23] Lightning Talks by ECRs No.6

○Tatsuki Ueyama (Tohoku University)

At the ocean surface, continuous exchanges of physical and chemical properties occur between the ocean and the atmosphere. In mid-latitude regions, strong vertical mixing develops in winter due to surface cooling and wind-driven stirring. As a result, a vertically homogeneous layer, known as the mixed layer, is formed, enhancing air–sea exchange processes. The winter mixed layer is subsequently subducted into the ocean interior through advection. A portion of the subducted water is re-entrained into the following winter mixed layer, while the remainder is transported within the ocean interior. Water masses characterized by vertically homogeneous properties formed in winter are referred to as mode waters. Properties acquired at the surface are also subducted together with these water masses and transported into the ocean interior. This process plays a crucial role in the redistribution of heat and the supply of oxygen to the ocean interior. These water masses and their associated properties are transported primarily along isopycnal surfaces.
Previously, I investigated the formation of mode waters in different density classes and their relationship with climate variability. The results revealed that formation variability differs among density classes, even within the same type of mode water. Such differences in formation variability are expected to influence oxygen supply to the ocean interior.
Currently, within the framework of the WPI-AIMEC JST-ASPIRE project, “Research and Development of Integrative Analyses for Marine Ecosystem Change and Establishment of an Ocean Brain-Circulation Platform,” I am investigating variability in ocean oxygen uptake and how this variability propagates within the ocean interior. Building on my previous work, this research aims to improve our understanding of how climate-driven ocean variability influences subsurface oxygen transport and marine ecosystems.
In addition to my research activities, I participated in various outreach and field activities through this project. These activities provided opportunities to explain my research and ongoing oceanographic studies to members of the public who were not familiar with ocean science. Through these experiences, I realized the challenges of communicating scientific research to non-specialists and the importance of explaining scientific concepts without relying on technical terminology. These activities helped me improve my science communication skills and broadened my perspective on the role of science in society.
Through this project, I aim to become a researcher who not only advances scientific understanding but also effectively communicates scientific knowledge and research outcomes to society through outreach activities.