Science Division

Conducting transdisciplinary research across biological, physical, and social sciences to deepen our understanding and deliver that information to the people who need it most.

Our scientists pursue a holistic understanding of the Gulf of Maine — from the smallest plankton to complex systems related to fisheries and coastal economies. This comprehensive knowledge informs the development of innovative solutions and tools that support the region's ecosystems, economy, and communities.

Science Division Capacities

Understanding how environmental conditions affect marine animals to inform ecosystem resource management
Characterizing coastal flood risk and translate science into tools and guidance for coastal resilience
Understanding human decisions regarding marine resource use to support sustainable and resilient coastal communities and economies
Providing ecological information for sustainable fisheries that can adapt to changing ocean conditions
Developing climate-resilient conservation and management strategies for fisheries and ecosystems
Transforming complex ocean data into accessible information and tools for marine stakeholders to improve decision-making

Our Labs

Our team of world-class scientists conducts marine research to better understand and steward the Gulf of Maine ecosystem — including people. Our labs combine their individual expertise to form a research program that covers the Gulf of Maine “from physics to fish sticks.”

Lobsterman hauling and putting bait in lobster traps on a lobster boat

Integrated Systems Ecology

Our lab works to distill and analyze complex ocean dynamics to inform decision-makers and promote sustainability and resiliency in the Gulf of Maine.

Fisheries Ecology

Our lab investigates ecological information about economically important fish, to ensure that fisheries can adapt to changes and operate at world-class levels.

Lobster boats anchored in a harbor with residential buildings in the background

Coastal and Marine Economics

Our lab seeks to understand the mechanisms behind our decisions and behaviors, and how they relate to coastal and marine resource uses.

Two people are installing a tide gauge on a bridge.

Coastal Dynamics

The Coastal Dynamics Lab studies changes in mean and extreme coastal and estuarine water levels to support coastal management, flood forecasting and preparedness, and state …

A group of people are looking at an ocean glider.

Biological Oceanography

The Biological Oceanography Lab studies the impact that environmental conditions and trophic interactions have on marine animals.

Ocean Data Products

Our team of experts transforms a constant flow of complex ocean data into simplified, accessible information streams and visuals for a diverse range of stakeholders.

A student points a pink pen at an interactive display of Gulf of Maine data.

Learning Sciences

Our lab seeks to advance the scientific understanding of teaching and learning by thoughtfully inquiring into the contexts in which learning happens.