Ocean dynamics and mixing processes at high latitudes

This application (PROCESSES) seeks support for a 8 month research stay abroad at Scripps Institute of Oceanography for Ilker Fer (I, hereafter). In PROCESSES, I shall utilize state-of-the-art observations and establish a strong international cooperation, with an aim to improve our understanding and description of the key processes at high latitudes. In line with other ongoing projects and their significant role in ocean circulation and climate, the following processes will be addressed: near-inertial inte rnal wave induced mixing, mixing over topography, and dynamics and mixing of deep overflows. The main purpose of this study will be to collaborate with key scientists at Scripps who are doing similar cutting edge work. To explore the energetics of Arctic internal waves and mixing under changing ice conditions and varying topography, I will combine and synthesize new observations with recent and historical data, including data from ocean areas in the Norwegian Arctic and the US Arctic. The data set include s basin wide surveys of ocean current and hydrography in the Arctic Oceans well as dedicated turbulence measurements for several years near the North Pole in the Amundsen Basin, and over the Yermak Plateau north of Svalbard. For the overflow mixing study I will utilize a unique data set from a dedicated mixing study of the Faroe Bank Channel overflow collected in summer 2012, including surveys of high resolution hydrography, currents and turbulence from ship as well as specialized turbulence measurements from an autonomous glider. This initial collaboration will open the way for future collaborations between Norway and USA. I will use the final month to draft proposals for future collaboration building on the scientific outcome and ideas of this stay. I e xpect significant long-term benefit to the observation-modelling interactions and sub-grid parameterization capabilities in the research community in Bergen and Norway.