Celebrating 50 Years of Ocean Science for a Better World

Intimately understanding the function of fragile ecosystems along the coasts and in the ocean has remained one of our lead research priorities since the inception of FAU Harbor Branch. From the diverse habitats to the protected marine life they support, we examine their responses to pressures like coastal land development, nutrient and plastics pollution, ocean acidification, warming temperatures and overfishing. Study results are essential for policy makers as they develop sound conservation, management and restoration strategies to help protect and save our oceans.

The ocean is teeming with life that has potential to unlock cures and treatments to some of the most devastating diseases facing humankind. Marine biomedical and biotechnology research is a hallmark of FAU Harbor Branch with ongoing federal funding and an international reputation. Our scientists closely examine natural chemicals and compounds derived from animals and plants found in and around coral reefs, resulting in promising drugs and therapeutics for the future. While the aquatic environment is a source for cures, it can also be a source for illness. There is not yet a full understanding of how changing environmental conditions and Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) affect ecosystems and human health. FAU Harbor Branch conducts research spanning the issue, assessing the true risks.

More than 50% of the seafood we eat comes from aquaculture, but less than 1% is produced in the United States. Global demand for seafood is expected to double over the next 40 years. From seaweed to fish, FAU Harbor Branch research has advanced aquaculture in Florida, the United States and internationally. Our work aims to provide the research and technological advances needed by aquaculture businesses, allowing them to prosper and increase the supply of nutritious, safe and high-quality domestic seafood.

Engineering advanced technology is the overarching solution for uncovering the mysteries of deep-sea ecosystems and how they can benefit people, like revealing new sources for medical drugs, food and energy resources. It is important to providing enhanced security for all Floridians and United States citizens. FAU Harbor Branch works with major defense contractors and the U.S. Department of Defense to better understand the oceanic environment in which the Navy operates and the biological, chemical, and physical processes that regulate that environment.

World Class Research in Florida and Across the Globe
FAU Harbor Branch research scientists take a global approach, conducting studies around the world in varying climates, ecosystems and cultures.

The Institute is an active, longtime member in many key organizations, such as:

• Consortium for Ocean Leadership
• IRL National Estuary Program Management Council
• Florida Ocean Alliance 
• Florida Institute of Oceanography
• Florida Sea Grant
• Florida Governor’s Blue-Green Algae Task Force
• Florida Red Tide Mitigation Technical Advisory Council
• National Marine Fisheries Service Marine Mammal Stranding Network
• NOAA Cooperative Institute for Ocean Exploration, Research and Technology, Lead Member
• National Aquaculture Association
• Southeast Coastal Ocean Observing Research Association (SECOORA)
• Organization of Biological Field Stations (OBFS)
• National Association of Marine Laboratories
• Southern Association of Marine Laboratories