As with oceanic-continental convergence, when two oceanic plates converge, one is usually subducted under the other, and in the process a trench is formed. The Marianas Trench (paralleling the Mariana Islands), for example, marks where the fast-moving Pacific Plate converges against the slower moving Philippine Plate.
A bachelor's or master's degree is typically required for entry-level marine biology research jobs, such as those at private research organizations and biotechnology companies. Doctoral degrees are usually required for faculty positions and other jobs that allow you to follow your own research interests.
Marine biologists need at least a bachelor's degree in marine biology, and many continue on to receive master's and doctoral degrees in marine biology, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Marine biologists spend many hours in oceans, lakes and rivers studying plants and animals, in addition to the time spent in the classroom learning about the sciences applicable to marine biology.