December, 2012

Dear Colleagues,

On the heels of a busy AGU Fall Meeting, I am reflecting on the many excellent presentations and the large attendance at the IODP Town Hall. The science discussed throughout the week – in the oral and poster sessions and informally over meals – likely inspired many new collaborations and proposal ideas for future ocean drilling. As you develop those plans, keep in mind that the next IODP proposal deadline is April 1st. Now is an excellent time to submit a drilling proposal, particularly for the Indian, western and southern Pacific, and southern Atlantic Oceans. A large pool of high-quality drilling proposals in these regions is critical for achieving the goals laid out in the science plan and for planning an efficient JOIDES Resolution ship track in the new program.

I would also like to draw your attention to two opportunities for U.S. leadership within the new International Ocean Discovery Program. The JOIDES Resolution Facility Board is currently seeking experienced scientists to take a seat on this board, including a U.S. scientist for its chair. At the same time, the IODP Forum is accepting applications for its chair. The chairs and members of both committees will oversee critical program elements that will keep the science and management in IODP strong and our concerns and research priorities on the forefront. I would be pleased to discuss any of these opportunities with you.

• JOIDES Resolution Facility Board (deadline January 4)
• IODP Forum (deadline January 31)
• IODP Drilling Proposals (deadline April 1)

All the best,

Anthony Koppers
Chair, U.S. Advisory Committee for Scientific Ocean Drilling