What is your role during the Extreme 2004 expedition?
Geochemistry analyses

Why did you choose this career, and how long have you been doing this? I wanted to do science because I like to discover and try new things. Nothing thrills me more than learning about new technology or new scientific discoveries. Doing science also allows me to see how amazing nature is and the incredible things human can do. I'm into my second year of Ph.D. studies.

Tell us about the most interesting thing that has happened to you because of your work.
This cruise.

What do you like most about your job? Least?
I get to decide what I want to do and when I want to do it (to an extent, anyway). The bad thing is that I often end up working 14 hours a day voluntarily.

What do you like most about going to sea? Least?
I think living on a ship for weeks and going down to deep ocean is the coolest thing about the cruise, but I really do hate the tropical climate.

How often do you go to sea?
This is my first time spending more than a few hours on a ship.

Do you ever get seasick? If so, how do you handle it?
I never really got very sick, but if I don't feel quite right I go out on the deck and get some fresh air. On a long cruise like this, I think I'll take some pills.

How do you fill your free time aboard ship?
Music, books, and DVDs.

What's your favorite hobbie? Favorite movie? Favorite book? Favorite food?
I spend lots of time listening to classical music and reading. I've watched the Fifth Element at least 20 times. I can't name a favorite book because there are so many of them. I like any food that's really spicy and doesn't have insects in it (thus excluding Papua New Guinea cuisine).

Where is the most exotic place you have been?
The top of the Franz-Josef glacier in New Zealand in reality, and Tahiti in my head.

What one tip would you give to students interested in pursuing a career like yours?
Don't be afraid to be different. Ask questions no one else does and try to think outside the box.