ODP Leg 188 (Prydz Bay region, Antarctica; from 13 Jan to 6 Mar 2000) offers an opportunity for an experienced palynologist to participate in shipboard studies. Leg 188 will drill three sites across the Antarctic margin, to investigate Cenozoic glacial history and the links between glacial and Southern Ocean events. Holes are planned a) on the continental rise in drift and deep-ocean deposits extending back into Oligocene time; b) on the mid- slope in mixed terrigenous and ocean sediment sections of likely late Miocene and younger age; and c) on the continental shelf in shallow marine to non-marine sections of Oligocene to Cretaceous age (earliest glaciation). Prior drilling in Prydz Bay region (Leg 119) shows palynomorph concentrations to be small but present, and useful in age determinations and related studies.

For further information, see the ODP web site or contact the ODP staff scientist: Carl Richter (Carl_Richter@odp.tamu.edu) or the co-chief scientists: Phillip O'Brien (Phil.OBrien@agso.gov.au) or Alan Cooper (alan@octopus.wr.usgs.gov).

Posted by John Firth (John_Firth@odp.tamu.edu) 2 August, 99.