Rob Buda holds the position of the OAR Research Dive Team Coordinator. He joined OAR in 1996 with a passion for SCUBA diving and saltwater. He received his SCUBA certification in 1991 while studying at Florida State University. He graduated from FSU in 1992 with a degree in Biology. He continued his training as a Nitrox Diver, Rescue Diver, Dry Suit Diver, Surface-Supplied Diver, Divemaster, Assistant Instructor, and Instructor. He also received training in scientific diving methods and diving accident management. Rob works for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection in the Beaches and Mines Funding Assistance Program