LT Caero is a marine chemist studying biogeochemical cycling in the ocean, with a specific focus on the marine carbonate system. His research examines how carbonate chemistry varies across time and space, and what those measurements reveal about the processes driving them. Much of that work involves carbonate cycling tracers and the use of remote sensing to extend point measurements across broader regions. A significant portion of his research is set in the Arctic, where he studies ocean acidification dynamics and their bearing on food resiliency and fisheries health. These are questions that matter directly to the communities and fisheries operating in those waters. He works alongside cadet-led research groups, bringing students into the collection and interpretation of field data. This work is underpinned by his service as an afloat icebreaking officer. He supported National Science Foundation operations in Antarctica on two Operation DEEP FREEZE deployments, and served as Executive Officer of a Great Lakes icebreaker through two seasons of Operation TACONITE, the nation’s largest domestic icebreaking operation. Time spent working in ice-covered and high-latitude waters shapes both the questions he pursues in the lab and the way he teaches them in the classroom.

Education

• M.S. Oceanography, University of Rhode Island, 2024
• B.S. Marine and Environmental Sciences, United States Coast Guard Academy, 2018

Courses Taught

• Chemistry I
• Chemistry II
• Environmental Science
• Science Ethics Seminar
• Capstone Research

Selected Publications and Presentations

Publications

• Caero, T., Wang, H., & Jersild, A. (2025). Pacific-Arctic Ocean Acidification: Decadal Trends and Drivers. Global Biogeochemical Cycles, 39, e2024GB008249.
• Caero, T. (2021). Arctic Security Cutters: Regionally Named, Globally Deployed. U.S. Naval Institute’s Proceedings, 147(8).
• Caero, T. (2020). The Coast Guard Needs to Listen– Acoustically. U.S. Naval Institute’s Proceedings, 146(8).

Presentations

• Caero, T. and Wang, H. (2025). Assessing Impact of Biogenic CaCO3 on Global Total Alkalinity Dynamics, Gordon Research Conference on Chemical Oceanography, Southern New Hampshire University
• Caero, T. and Wang, H. (2024). Ocean Acidification in the Pacific-Arctic Region, Ocean Carbon Biogeochemistry Summer Workshop, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution
• Caero, T. and Wang, H. (2024). Bridging Carbonate System Observational Gaps in the Pacific-Arctic Region, Alaska Marine Science Symposium, Anchorage, AK