Nautilus expedition presents unique chance for UH Hilo student to partake
Deep sea intern Hayden Niles, a University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo senior, is currently embarking on a 21-day expedition aboard the research vessel E/V Nautilus around the Marshall Islands. This opportunity is part of the Ocean Exploration Trust's internship programme, which selected Niles as one of 14 interns from across the nation [1][3].
Niles' passion for the ocean began in an unexpected way - through a Nintendo Wii video game called "Endless Ocean: Blue World" [2]. This early interest was nurtured by hands-on experience in fisheries and aquaculture in his home state of South Dakota. Eventually, Niles pursued a Marine Science degree at UH Hilo, where he also earned a minor in chemistry [2].
During his time on the Nautilus, Niles is using mapping, remotely operated vehicles, and telepresence systems to explore and collect critical ocean baseline data. This data will support sustainable marine spatial planning in the region [1][3]. The information gathered is crucial for the Marshall Islands' Marine Spatial Planning process, which aims to sustainably manage marine resources, thereby maintaining and improving food production from the ocean ecosystems surrounding the islands [1].
Niles' work on board the Nautilus is also contributing to scientific advancement. He is collecting rocks, soil, water samples, and corals for examination on the ship. The corals, in particular, serve as a barometer for the ocean's health and an indicator of the planet's well-being [1].
In addition to his deep-sea exploration, Niles is deeply concerned about the environment, especially in light of recent federal deregulation of environmental protections and the opening of pristine oceanic reserves for industrial fishing [2]. He finds inspiration in the Dr. Seuss character, The Lorax, who speaks for the trees, and channels this inspiration into his advocacy for ocean conservation.
Back on land, Niles continues his commitment to the environment by growing produce hydroponically and donating the harvests to The Food Basket to help combat local food insecurity [2].
One of the most meaningful talks Niles has given was teaching elementary school children about cephalopods, including octopus, squid, and cuttlefish [2]. His fascination with cephalopods is evident, and he is most hoping to see a rare strawberry squid during this expedition [2].
Niles' current expedition will allow him to explore deep sea habitats and sea mounts as the Nautilus cruises from the Solomon Islands to the Marshall Islands between July 27 and Aug. 17 [1]. His work can be followed in real-time at www.nautiluslive.org.
[1] Ocean Exploration Trust. (2025). Deep-Sea Internship Programme. Retrieved from https://www.oceanexplorationtrust.org/internships/deep-sea-internship-program/
[2] University of Hawaii at Hilo. (2025). Student Hayden Niles Embarks on Deep-Sea Expedition. Retrieved from https://hawaii.edu/news/2025/07/20/student-hayden-niles-embarks-on-deep-sea-expedition/
[3] National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. (2025). Marshall Islands Marine Spatial Planning. Retrieved from https://marine.noaa.gov/programs/marshall-islands-marine-spatial-planning/
- Hayden Niles, with a background in education-and-self-development and environmental-science, is utilizing technology like mapping and remotely operated vehicles during his deep-sea expedition, aiming to provide healthier environments for marine life.
- Niles' passion for the ocean, sparked by a video game, has led him to engage in community efforts, such as growing produce to donate for local food insecurity and educating elementary school children about marine life.
- The critical data Niles collects will not only support the health of the ocean and environments surrounding the Marshall Islands, but also contribute to science and scientific advancement by addressing climate-change and its effects on the planet's well-being.
- Niles' work with oceanic resources is crucial for the sustainable management of community marine resources, promoting food production and ensuring their long-term survival for future generations.
- In the world of sports, Niles may find himself competing against time as he searches for the rare strawberry squid during his deep-sea expedition, demonstrating his commitment to exploration and discovery.
