Feature Stories 2024: Cauê Zirnberger Lazaneo PhD '21: The ocean-climate connection

From Antarctica to Hawaii, Cauê Zirnberger Lazaneo PhD '21 has spent more than 7,000 hours at sea as an ocean researcher. His research aims to fill knowledge gaps that limit accurate climate projections by investigating the physical processes behind ocean turbulence and energy transfer between large-scale currents and small-scale flows.  

This fall, the alumnus of UMassD's School for Marine Science and Technology (SMAST) landed a position as a Professor of Physical Oceanography at the Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP) in Brazil. A journey that has taken him around the globe exploring the world's oceans now comes full circle as he prepares to teach the next generation of marine scientists.  

Why did you decide to become a marine scientist? 

"Growing up in Ubatuba, Brazil, close to a beautiful shore with numerous beaches and preserved natural areas, I spent much of my time surfing," Lazaneo said. "This connection with the ocean made my interest in natural sciences, particularly ocean sciences with all their mysteries, a natural progression."  

The SMAST-IOUSP dual PhD: A bridge across oceans 

Lazaneo earned his PhD through the dual PhD degree program established between the University of São Paulo, Brazil, Institute of Oceanography (IOUSP) and the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. The dual-degree framework allows graduate students to participate in the program at both institutions, while being co-supervised by one faculty member from each institution. 

"I chose the dual degree program at UMass Dartmouth because it offered a unique opportunity to engage in international collaboration while staying connected to my home country," Lazaneo said. "It allowed me to immerse myself in a new culture and work with exceptional people on various projects. This program aligned perfectly with my career goals and research interests, enabling me to integrate diverse perspectives and skills crucial for my professional development.  

"I began my studies in Brazil at the University of São Paulo (USP), where I completed the required coursework and started my dissertation. Following my successful qualifying exam, I studied in the U.S. at UMass Dartmouth. This experience was invaluable, as it allowed me to immerse myself in the culture and further develop my skills. Dr. Amit Tandon was an excellent advisor and continues to be a great mentor."  

Exploring the world's oceans 

"Throughout my career as an observational oceanographer, I’ve explored some truly remarkable places onboard, including Trindade Island in the South Atlantic Ocean, the Drake Passage and Antarctic Peninsula, Hawaii, Palau, and Guam. On my most recent trip, I had the opportunity to navigate in the wake of Super Typhoon Mawar around Guam, where we deployed a diverse array of autonomous and non-autonomous profiling instruments. Each of these locations has provided unique opportunities for scientific exploration and has deepened my understanding of the oceans." 

Unlocking the ocean-climate connection 

"My research focuses on oceanic turbulence and the mechanisms driving small-scale processes," Lazaneo said. "These processes are essential for transporting energy from large-scale flows (e.g., large ocean currents) to the turbulence scales, where the kinetic energy is irreversibly lost. In this way, I aim to explore how turbulence, small-scale processes, and the mechanisms that break the ocean balance contribute to the ocean energy budget and their role in the face of climate change." 

What do you want people to understand about the ocean and climate change?  

 "I want people to recognize that the ocean is far more than a distant, beautiful expanse of water—it is a vital component of Earth’s life support system. Human activities are increasing significant changes in the ocean that impact us all. These changes, such as rising sea levels and more extreme weather events, arise from disruptions in the climate system. The ocean plays a crucial role in this climate puzzle by regulating atmospheric temperatures. By raising awareness and advocating for policies that protect our oceans, we can ensure that both current and future generations continue to benefit from its invaluable resources." 

This program aligned perfectly with my career goals and research interests, enabling me to integrate diverse perspectives and skills crucial for my professional development.