RIDGE 2000 is a new research initiative sponsored by the National Science Foundation (NSF) to understand Earth's spreading ridge system as an integrated whole—from its inception in the mantle, to its manifestations in the biosphere and water column. RIDGE 2000 is at the beginning of an anticipated 12‐year program. Although its goals have been defined, there are exciting opportunities for investigators to help lay out the details of the program and to carry out projects.The science plan for RIDGE 2000 aims at a comprehensive understanding of the relationships among the biological, geological, and chemical processes associated with plate spreading at midocean ridges (Figure 1). This whole‐system approach is integral to understanding how sea‐floor and sub‐surface ecosystems are sustained by crustal accretion processes. In order to understand the complex 4‐D processes involved in crustal accretion and its consequences for life in the deep oceans, the RIDGE 2000 Program will support two main research themes: time‐critical studies and integrated studies.