Science cruises are accessed through competitive, peer-reviewed proposals. These will usually comprise one or more primary multidisciplinary research teams supported through the Large Proposal scheme by REV Ocean, with additional science undertaken by smaller teams to add value to the cruise supported by Small Proposals. Communicators (writers, reporters, photographers), artists, activists, entrepreneurs and business people may also participate in science cruises as part of REV Ocean’s outreach activities either through invitation or through submission of a Small Proposal. There may also be opportunities for training, capacity-building and for the involvement of policymakers usually from the region of operation.  In addition, innovators, start-ups and applied science and engineering projects can place a small number of people on the REV Ocean vessel for testing and validating new technologies and approaches that offer solutions to ocean problems through the Open Call.

The REV Ocean Science and Innovation Committee (SIC) will ensure the scientific quality and integrity of the research missions, secure the independence of the Science Program, select the best research projects for the REV Ocean science cruises and contribute to mission planning.