Program Overview

Introduction to the BioAcoustic Summer School (SeaBASS)

The BioAcoustic Summer School (SeaBASS) is a program designed to provide graduate students with a strong foundation in marine bioacoustics. The goal of SeaBASS is to foster technical communication across disciplines and develop professional relationships within the field.

Program Details

Objective

The objective of SeaBASS is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of marine animal biology and acoustics. The program aims to bring together experts in the field to discuss topics not often offered at universities due to limited demand.

Lectures and Topics

Lecturers will provide half-day seminars on fundamental aspects of underwater sound and marine animal behavior. The program will cover topics such as:

• Introduction to underwater sound
• Sound propagation
• Marine mammal biology and behavior
• Fisheries acoustics
• Fish behavior
• Hearing
• Effects of noise
• Echolocation
• Hot topic: Passive acoustic monitoring and signal processing
• Hot topic: Density estimation

Program Structure

Each topic module will include an introductory lecture followed by group discussions or group projects. Structured social activities will also be organized to allow students and research scientists to interact informally and develop lasting professional mentorships.

Eligibility and Application

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the program, students must:

• Have a GPA of 3.0 or higher during the previous two years of study
• Be currently enrolled in a graduate program
• Submit a personal statement
  • Priority will be given to U.S. citizens

Application Deadline

Applications close on March 13, 2026. Acceptance notices will be sent out by the end of March 2026.

Program Costs and Funding

Student Attendance

Student attendance, including room and board (based on double occupancy), will be funded by sponsor support. There is no registration fee. Full-time participation of all participants is required. Travel costs are the responsibility of the student, but travel assistance can be requested during the application process.

Program Schedule

Dates

The program will take place from June 28 to July 3, 2026.

Location

The program will be held at Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY.

Sponsors

The program is sponsored by:

• University of New Hampshire (UNH)
• Syracuse University (SU)
• Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM)
• HDR
• US Navy
• International Quiet Ocean Experiment (IQOE)
• Office of Naval Research (ONR)
• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
• Scientific Committee on Oceanics Research (SCOR)
• The Acoustical Society of America (ASA)
• The Monmouth University Rockefeller University (MURU) Marine Science and Policy Initiative

Testimonials

The program has received positive feedback from past participants, who have found it to be an invaluable experience for learning about marine bioacoustics and connecting with professionals in the field.