Merrick Low: Answering the ocean’s call

Q What did you want to be when you were growing up?

I grew up with a strong interest in STEM subjects, which led me to pursue a diploma in chemical engineering. Along the way, I discovered a passion for scuba diving and the ocean, which shifted my career aspirations towards wanting to be a commercial diver to combine work with passion.

After my national service, I decided to follow my heart and switched to a marine science degree, instead of continuing with chemical engineering. Fast forward five years, and I am now at RPS, where I work with marine and coastal environments, fulfilling my dream of working with the ocean every day.

Q What does your role as a Graduate Marine Scientist involve?

In the Ocean Science and Technology (OST) team, I perform numerical modelling in support of environmental approvals for our clients. I gather environmental forcing data – tides, wind and waves to quantify the effects of human activities on the coastal system. My job is to ensure the accuracy and reliability of our simulations, as each different scenario tested provides evidence for future decision-making.

A typical day includes monitoring the progress of ongoing simulations, hoping there are no crashes, and then delving into the results to identify patterns, trends, and anomalies that tell a story about local environmental phenomena.

In this role, collaboration is key. A regular part of my day involves team meetings to discuss findings, troubleshooting issues, and brainstorming ideas. Flexibility is also essential, as priorities can shift and new challenges can arise at any time, making each day unique and dynamic.

Q Why did you want to become a Marine Scientist with RPS?

I was drawn to RPS because of the incredible diversity of its projects and clients. The opportunity to work on a wide range of questions across different disciplines was really appealing to me. Every project is a new adventure, allowing me to gain invaluable experiences and keeping my work exciting. I love that I can continuously learn and grow professionally, all while being part of a team that's passionate about making a positive impact on the environment. 

Q What’s particularly satisfying about your work?

The most satisfying aspect of my work is discovering insights into areas I previously knew little about. The bonus is seeing how our efforts can lead to meaningful environmental outcomes. Our work supports sustainable development while protecting marine life, which is incredibly fulfilling.

Q What’s the most fascinating thing you’ve done in your career / work?

Although my job is office-based, one of the most fascinating aspects of my career has been working on complex data models that simulate marine environments. These models help predict the impacts of various activities on marine ecosystems, and uncovering these insights through data analysis is both challenging and rewarding.

Q Can you think of a particular project that stands out?

The variety of projects I've worked on is what truly stands out. For example, I’ve been able to evaluate oil spill risks along our coastlines, assess the feasibility of operating a desalination plant, and determine the flushing time for a new marina development. Each project presents unique challenges and learning opportunities. This diversity keeps the work interesting and continuously pushes me to adapt and grow in my field.