The National Ocean Sciences Bowl (NOSB) is looking for volunteers to assist with our 2025 virtual National Finals Competition on May 16-18, 2025. The top 18 teams will compete head-to-head over Zoom, completing the buzzer question rounds and Team Challenge Questions (TCQs).

To be successful, the NOSB needs volunteers from across the country to serve as competition officials!

There are many ways to get involved from the comfort of your home, whether reading questions to the teams, judging the scientific accuracy of students’ answers, keeping score or time, ensuring rules are followed, or proctoring and grading TCQs. You do not need a STEM background for many roles.

If you are interested in volunteering, please complete the registration form by April 28.

The registration form will request your preferred contact information and availability for the competition days, as well as volunteer orientation training sessions in April and role-based practice sessions in early May. At least one training and practice session is required for all volunteers. Note that current high school students are not eligible to volunteer.

Any questions about this opportunity can be directed to nosb(at)ucar.edu. Visit the Finals Competition webpage to learn more about the competition and associated events.

Benefits to Volunteering

  • Invitation to our Finals virtual “field trip” with MBARI’s FathomVerse on May 8th at 8 pm ET.
    • FathomVerse: Where Gaming Meets Community Science to Explore Our Ocean. FathomVerse is a community science game that invites ocean enthusiasts to interact with real underwater images and improve the artificial intelligence that helps researchers study ocean life. The game combines immersive imagery, compelling gameplay, and cutting-edge science to inspire a new wave of ocean explorers. Available for free on the App Store and Google Play, FathomVerse empowers anyone with a smartphone or tablet to take part in ocean exploration and discovery.
  • Invitation to the Finals Opening Ceremony with a special presentation and an introduction to the 18 competing teams on May 16 at 8 pm ET.
    • Presentation about the CRESCENDO project at the University of South Florida. CRESCENDO (Communicating Research Expansively through Sonification and Community-Engaged Neuroaesthetic Data-literacy Opportunities) is an innovative interdisciplinary project that reimagines how environmental data is communicated. Led by Dr. Heather O’Leary, the initiative translates complex data from critical issues like harmful algal blooms and red tide into immersive experiences that bridge the gap between scientific research and public understanding.
  • Be part of a passionate community of ocean science enthusiasts with thousands of students, coaches, volunteers, and supporters!
    • Most volunteers return year after year, with more than 30% volunteering for at least 6 years.
    • Past volunteers have noted how participating gives them hope and inspiration for the future while students and program alumni often share that competing in the NOSB is absolutely the reason they are a scientist today!
  • Volunteers highlight the following reasons for choosing to volunteer with the NOSB:
    • Enjoy working with high school students
    • Employer supports and encourages their participation
    • Stay current on ocean topics and research
    • Meet peers with similar interests
    • Participated in NOSB or other academic competitions in high school