International training programs: The base for technology transfer

Although the general field of marine sciences has received considerable attention over the past 15 years, institutions in a number of different countries still find it difficult to provide modern facilities for training and research and, consequently, lack trained individuals to deal with the ever-increasing problems and pressures of coastal development and pollution. Over the past four years, the Duke University Marine Laboratory has conducted an "International Training Program in the Marine Sciences" providing opportunities for approximately 70 young scientists from the developing countries to participate in formal course work, undertake an independent research project under the supervision of one of the resident Laboratory staff, and become familiar with new laboratory techniques and equipment. In addition, these scientists participate in a variety of seminars pertinent to the general theme of the relationships of marine organisms to the estuarine, shelf and oceanic environments, and the way in which these organisms may have been adapted to specific physical, chemical, geological, and biological factors within these diverse environments. This program has been funded by the Rockefeller Foundation and UNESCO.