James Moore

Tell us about your work/research. What kinds of things do you do?

I am a Marine Archaeologist in the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), which is in the Department of the Interior and oversees the permitting and development of approved energy- and mineral-related activities offshore the United States and its Territories. Specifically, I work for BOEM's Headquarters Office in the Division of Environmental Sciences (DES) and assist with the development of archaeological research studies that are performed among all of BOEM's programmatic offices, and I also oversee the procurement and performance management of these studies. Data from these studies are used to directly inform BOEM management decisions to ensure the Bureau is upholding its historic preservation mandates, such as the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA). BOEM research topics range from identifying and inventorying specific archaeological site types (such as shipwrecks), analyzing how specific marine environments and / or ecological communities are affecting site integrity, and the assessment of now-submerged landforms that were once inhabited by Native American communities. My personal research interest concerns the long-term corrosion behavior of historic iron and steel shipwrecks.

What sparked your initial interest in your career?

I became fascinated by the ocean at a very young age from going on family trips to the beach, and I had mutual interests not only in marine life (especially sharks, which remain my favorite animals) but with maritime history. I remember that after a particularly strong storm, the remains of a blockade runner from the Civil War was uncovered near the area we always stayed. The ship had always been "there" but passed out of local knowledge until it was uncovered once again. I then became more interested in shipwrecks, as they represented time capsules from specific periods that could be visually and scientifically studied, and subsequently I became fascinated by the challenges and technologies implemented to find and explore shipwrecks in deeper waters.

Who influenced you or encouraged you the most?

Definitely my parents; they not only continuously supported my academic interests but installed an appreciation for not only science but for history, culture, and the arts. I grew up in the mountains of southwest Virginia, essentially the heart of Appalachia, and I know the importance of having a sense of place and cultural identity, not to mention keeping a healthy sense of humor whenever you can.

What element of your work/study do you think is the most fascinating?

Almost all of the archaeology studies in which I'm involved consist of collecting baseline information, so there's always something new to learn. There are also many cases where my colleagues and I are the first to research a site that was just discovered. I also appreciate any opportunity to take a direct role in assisting with on-site field research.

How did you get involved with the Ocean Exploration Trust?

BOEM is co-funding this specific expedition through an inter-agency agreement with NOAA Exploration, as Hawai'i is deemed as a strategic priority area, and the E/V Nautilus is the ideal vessel to survey and map those areas that have never been explored. I will be assisting with reviewing data and determining if the presence of any archaeological sites (eg. shipwrecks) can be identified.
However, I have been aware of the Ocean Exploration Trust since its inception when I was a graduate student at the University of Rhode Island's (URI's) Graduate School of Oceanography (GSO). Dr. Robert Ballard was my major professor while I was at URI, so I had the opportunity to be involved with several expeditions in which he was the Chief Scientist, and I completed an academic track in archaeological oceanography. I also participated in the Nautilus' inaugural research cruise in 2009, and it's great to be back on board.

What other jobs led you to your current career?

My job at BOEM is my first professional career position out of graduate school, but as a student I was involved with several projects that helped me gain the necessary experience for my work at BOEM. These included internships, archaeological field schools, and participation in several oceanographic expeditions, which have included the Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico, Mediterranean Sea, and the Black Sea.

What are your degrees and certifications?

Bachelor of Science Degree in Marine Science (focus in Marine Biology) -- Eckerd College 2000; Master of Arts Degree in History (focus in Nautical Archaeology) -- East Carolina University 2003; Doctor of Philosophy in Oceanography (focus in Archaeological Oceanography) -- University of Rhode Island 2011.

What are your hobbies?

Outside of work I travel whenever I can, and I particularly enjoy visiting National Parks and historic sites. I also enjoy a good nature walk, which I find calming.

What advice would you give someone who wants to have a career like yours?

If you have several interests, certainly don't be hesitant to immerse yourself and learn more about them at every opportunity; you would be surprised at the types of ways you may be able to combine them to focus on a path that's truly your own. For anyone interested in archaeology or marine science in general, participating in field research at any opportunity, even in a volunteer capacity, will certainly go a long way; your enthusiasm will be greatly appreciated.