Submesoscale density fronts at the ocean’s surface are just hundreds of meters to tens of kilometers in width, however they are thought to have a substantial impact on the exchange of heat and other properties in and near the mixed layer, contribute to across-scale energy transfers, and consequently play a role in modulating chemical and biological processes in the surface ocean. This study will use existing shipboard observations of surface temperature and salinity along with satellite imagery to study global patterns in submesoscale variability. This research has the potential to expand our knowledge of the dynamics, seasonality, and impact of submesoscale density fronts to encompass the global scale. This is currently an underdeveloped area of research since the majority of observational studies of oceanic submesoscale fronts focus on individual fronts or specific regions. Improving our global understanding of submesoscale fronts may inspire future observational process studies in new regions of the world, motivate future theory and modeling studies that focus on currently under-studied regimes, and give rise to improved submesoscale parameterizations. The research component will support a graduate student for 5 years. The educational component of this CAREER award will introduce 9 undergraduate art students to scientific research. The art students will be fully involved in the science-based activities, and will be advised by both scientists and artists throughout their s