46 CFR § 188.05-33
Scientific personnel—interpretive rulings
April 15, 2021
(a) Scientific personnel on oceanographic research vessels are not considered to be seamen or passengers, but are considered as “persons” when requirements are based on total persons on board.
(b) Scientific personnel on such vessels shall not be required to possess seamen's documents nor shall they be required to sign shipping articles.
[CGFR 67-83, 33 FR 1113, Jan. 27, 1968, as amended by CGD 77-081, 46 FR 56204, Nov. 16, 1981]