The University-National Oceanographic Laboratory System (UNOLS) has created a website for upcoming spaces on research cruises. This provides sea time for students interested in gaining more technical research experience at sea in return for working as a member of the ship's crew (as a watchstander). The general criteria for watchstanders are:
- seaworthiness
- good health and medical insurance
- scientific interest and/or background
- ability to followed detailed instructions carefully
- ability to work safely on an oceanographic cruise
- possess a valid US passport.