Ocean Dynamics & Modeling

Overview

The oceans are a place of constant motion, and water movement is the basis of the functioning and health of marine ecosystems. In addition to transporting plankton, larvae, sediments, nutrients and pollutants, ocean circulation helps determine global climate through storage and transfer of energy and greenhouse gases. The ability to observe and model these processes enables a broad range of descriptive and predictive capabilities.

Ocean dynamics and modeling research at Harbor Branch emphasizes numerical modeling of the key coupled physical, chemical and biological processes and their impacts on marine ecosystem functions and coastal environments. The research topics include zooplankton and larvae transport and ecosystem connectivity, resilience and sustainability of fish habitats, water quality, nutrient and carbon cycles, harmful algal blooms and ocean acidification.

Ocean modeling also relies on extensive observations: In collaboration with other groups, our research uses cutting-edge technology to efficiently collect high-resolution data for the study of oceanic processes and for the evaluation of related numerical models.

RESEARCH AREAS

PROJECTS
GRADUATE PROGRAMS

The Ocean Dynamics & Modeling program welcomes students in the following FAU graduate programs:

More information on all FAU graduate programs can be found here.

empty Ocean Pioneer Presenting Sponsorship $50,000 Ocean Crusader Sponsorship $25,000 Ocean Defender Sponsorship $10,000 Ocean Adventurer Sponsorship $5,000
Speaking opportunity at an Ocean Science Lecture Series event        
VIP reception for up to 20 guests at an Ocean Science Lecture Series event        
Name an FAU Harbor Branch Scholarship Fund        
Sponsor Spotlight recognition in the FAU Harbor Branch e-Bulletin        
Six reserved front row seats for the Ocean Science Lecture Series 2022 season        
Recognition at various VIP and public events        
Recognition on 50th Anniversary printed and electronic promotional materials        
Logo recognition on 50th Anniversary webpage        
Corporate seat on the Executive Director’s Council        
Employee engagement event        
Recognition in the FAU Harbor Branch e-Bulletin        
Recognition in 50th Anniversary celebration event presentations        
Opportunity to have table/materials/product at three Ocean Science Lectures        
Recognition on 50th Anniversary webpage sponsor listing        
Recognition in sponsor appreciation advertisement in local media        
One year of membership in FAU Harbor Branch’s Corporate Partner        
Program at the Freshwater Club Level        
Commemorative 50th Anniversary gift        
Early access invitations to additional events and programming        
Opportunity to have table/materials/product at one Ocean Science Lecture        
Additional Information
Florida Atlantic's Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute engages with the community through the Ocean Discovery Visitors Center and the Ocean Science Lecture Series. Harbor Branch’s research and outreach programs translate marine science in order to provide solutions that improve economies and quality of life for coastal communities.
Address
Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute
Florida Atlantic University
5600 US 1 North
Fort Pierce, FL 34946