Celebrating Ocean Science for a Better World^®

Founded in the spirit of ocean exploration to unveil the mysteries of the deep, FAU Harbor Branch prioritizes solution-oriented research that addresses some of the challenges impacting coastal and ocean zones both locally and internationally. Since its inception, the institute has been instrumental in affecting change in these areas through a deep understanding of key species, fragile habitats and ecosystem dynamics. Join us as we continue to celebrate 50 Years of ocean research and discovery.

FAU Harbor Branch recently hosted the final event of the 2022 Celebrating 50 Years of Ocean Science for a Better World^® Lecture Series. The event featured a panel discussion highlighting the rich history of research, ground-breaking accomplishments and iconic memories at FAU Harbor Branch from our renowned researchers, John Reed, M.S., research professor; Dennis Hanisak, Ph.D., research professor and director of education; Brian Lapointe, Ph.D., research professor; Shirley Pomponi, Ph.D., research professor; and Jim Sullivan, Ph.D., executive director. The panel presentation was moderated by local journalist Anthony Westbury and concluded with remarks from FAU President John Kelly. A celebratory reception followed the lecture.

To view additional photos from the event, click here.   

FAU Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute recently hosted the 2022 Indian River Lagoon (IRL) Symposium, themed “Connectivity,” providing a forum for FAU Harbor Branch researchers and experts to address topics such as harmful algal blooms, IRL restoration, the lagoon’s ecology and biodiversity, and the management of the IRL. During the two-day event, 460 guests, both virtual and in-person, participated in over 80 lectures, presentations and forum discussion… learn more about the symposium.

50^th Anniversary Outreach Program Series

As we continue to celebrate 50 Years, we are offering a variety of opportunities for the public to visit a world-renowned oceanographic institute, take a behind-the-scenes look at cutting-edge research and connect with experts. In recognition of FAU Harbor Branch's 50th anniversary, special historical content will be highlighted during tour programs and in new exhibitions at the Ocean Discovery Visitors Center. Check here for up-to-date details on our Outreach Programs.

FAU Harbor Branch Mini Lecture Series at the Elliott Museum 

The Elliott Museum will host a series of lectures presented by FAU Harbor Branch researchers. Open to the public, these lectures will give the community a chance to hear directly from our researchers about topics affecting our coastal communities and beyond.

Megan Davis, Ph.D., research professor, Aquaculture and Stock Enhancement Program, FAU Harbor Branch 

Malcolm McFarland, Ph.D., research associate, Marine Ecosystem Health, FAU Harbor Branch 

Coral Reef Ecosystems: Linking Exploration to Conservation 

Joshua Voss, Ph.D., associate research professor, Coral Reef and Molecular Ecology, FAU Harbor Branch 

FAU Harbor Branch's relentless pursuit of innovative ocean research depends on strong partnerships with our supporters. We invite you to join us as we celebrate our storied past, present successes and exciting future by joining the FAU Harbor Branch Benefactors Society. 

Benefactors Society members support vital needs that enable FAU Harbor Branch to continue expanding our core initiatives to make a significant and timely impact on critical ocean issues... Learn more

Sponsors updated as of 12/17/2021. For more information on sponsorship opportunities click here. 

FAU’s Matt Ajemian, Ph.D., has received the coveted National Science Foundation (NSF) Early CAREER award through the Biological Oceanography Program. The CAREER program offers the NSF’s most prestigious awards in support of early-career faculty who have the potential to serve as academic role models in research and education and to lead advances in the mission of their department or organization.

Ajemian, an assistant research professor and director of The Fish Ecology and Conservation Lab at FAU’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, studies how marine organisms interact with one another and their habitats. His experience includes studies of a variety of species from shellfish up to sharks and rays.

He received a $1,103,081 NSF CAREER grant for a project titled, “Breaking Ground with Underwater Sound – Unraveling Elusive Predator-prey Interactions in Marine Benthic Communities Using Novel Technological Approaches.” The project will build fundamental knowledge on where and when large shell-crushing predators feed in order to ensure a sustainable future for shellfish species. Further, the work can provide guidance to shellfish restoration programs that are currently “flying blind” with respect to predation risk… Read more

(Photo credit: FGBNMS/UNCW-UVP via NOAA's Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary)

Scientists from FAU Harbor Branch will conduct an expedition to explore coral and sponge habitats within Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary (FGBNMS) and nearby areas in the northwestern Gulf of Mexico from May 1 to 14. The rich biodiversity of the targeted region has been well-observed but not sampled for biotechnological applications. Sailing on the University of Southern Mississippi’s research vessel Point Sur, the expedition team will use the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation’s remotely operated vehicle Mohawk to document biodiversity at deep coral and sponge habitats and to collect benthic specimens for further analysis. They will study the natural products made by the sampled organisms in assays and examine their biochemical functions. Learn more about the expedition. 

FAU Harbor Branch researchers co-authored a study recently published in Marine Drugs dedicated to furthering discovery of unique marine compounds that prove effective in combating significant possible mortality of human and livestock populations caused by Cryptosporidium – an apicomplexan parasite. To do so, researchers utilized 3,764 fractions of FAU Harbor Branch’s collection of diverse marine organisms, leading to the identification of over 20 fractions that potentially inhibit the growth of the parasite.

The study suggests that bioassay guided fractionation of active fractions from a deep-sea sponge, Leiodermatium sp., resulted in the purification of leiodolide A, the major active compound in the organism… Read more

FAU Harbor Branch Faculty Recognized at FAU Northern Campuses Awards Event 

Congratulations to Laurent Chérubin, Ph.D., associate research professor, Ocean Modeling and Bio-physical Processes, FAU Harbor Branch, on his recent Exceptional Faculty award from the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science. Chérubin was presented the award at the recent Northern Campuses Awards ceremony by Jim Sullivan, Ph.D., executive director, FAU Harbor Branch. 

“Our motto is “Ocean Science for a Better World^® … the science, education and outreach that we do would not be possible without the incredible students, staff and faculty,” said Sullivan.  

FAU Harbor Branch experts spoke to WPBF meteorologists Glenn Glazer and Brooke Silverang to discuss the impact human activity has on climate change and the resulting detriments it has on the world around us… Learn more 

Vero Beach 32963, a weekly news publisher covering the Vero Beach Barrier Island and champion supporter of Ocean Science for a Better World^®, featured an extraordinary article highlighting memories of FAU Harbor Branch in light of the 50th anniversary celebration. In addition to reminiscing on the many adventures taken place in the Johnson-Sea-Link submersibles, the article also highlights the final lecture in the 2022 Celebrating 50 Years of Ocean Science for a Better World^® Lecture Series and the renowned researchers as they discuss first-hand their discoveries, successes and camaraderie throughout the years… Read more

The unique collaborative efforts of FAU Harbor Branch and Puerto Rico's Conservación ConCiencia, in collaboration with the Naguabo Commercial Fishing Association, have been highlighted in a recent issue of Hakai Magazine – a publication dedicated to international science, society and the coastal environment. This incredible piece puts a spotlight on this first and only Queen conch hatchery and nursery, operated by fishers in Puerto Rico, for the purpose of Queen conch conservation and restoration… Read more

Kara Grace Muzia, FAU Harbor Branch alumna and host of “So You Want to be a Marine Biologist,” featured Andia Chavez Fonnegra, assistant professor of biology, FAU Harbor Branch, on a recent episode. In this podcast, Fonnegra discusses how she fell in love with the ocean growing up in Colombia, studying the processes that structure marine habitats and the importance of sponges in coral reefs. 

Tune into the latest episode, “Andia Fonnegra Chavez, Ph.D.: Coral Reefs, Colorful Sponges, And Following Your Own Path,” also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and your other favorite podcast platforms. 

FAU Harbor Branch Featured on 9.71 Ocean FM

Steve Burton, M.S., director, FAU Harbor Branch Stranding and Population Assessment Team was recently featured on WOSN’s news radio talk show with Bob Soos.” Steve discusses the FAU Harbor Branch marine mammal stranding and population program and recent standings. Tune in here.

With a three-year fund from Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) as well as funding from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, HBOI researchers hope to grow more seagrass and look into the causes of the loss… Read more

Members of FAU Harbor Branch’s Coral Reef and Molecular Ecology Team visited Portsmouth, NH to attend BEM 2022, a yearly meeting to exchange scientific research and discoveries focusing on marine benthic ecosystems… Learn more  

Become a Citizen Scientist with FAU Harbor Branch’s Land-Based Dolphin Spotter Project 

Similar to a human's fingerprint, each dolphin’s dorsal fin is unique! FAU Harbor Branch researchers are using photo-identification to learn more about the dolphins that live in the Indian River Lagoon.

To support dolphin research and conservation, you can register to become a Dolphin Spotter with our brand-new citizen science project!.. Learn more

Help educate the community about the important research being conducted at FAU Harbor Branch! Volunteers are needed for the FAU Harbor Branch Ocean Discovery Visitors Center. For more information or to apply, visit our website.

Through FAU Harbor Branch Speakers Bureau, community organizations may request a virtual presentation on a specific research topic or a general overview of FAU Harbor Branch. This program provides an excellent opportunity to learn about the institute’s most recent discoveries and connect with marine science experts. There is no charge for scheduling a speaker, however an honorarium or donation is encouraged.

If you would like to request a virtual speaker for your group/event, please fill out FAU Harbor Branch Speakers Bureau request form.

Bring Ocean Science for A Better World^® right into your home with virtual resources from FAU Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute! Online offerings include lectures, interviews with marine scientists, activities for children and much more! Visit our virtual resources page to learn about these great opportunities for teachers, students and ocean lovers of all ages!... Learn more

Stop by the Ocean Discovery Visitors Center gift shop! The center will be open from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday. Or shop online at our FAU Harbor Branch gift shop here.

By celebrating and supporting our 50^th Anniversary, your organization will become a part of the legacy that has long informed ocean science research and global conservation efforts. Your unique position as a sponsor of our milestone celebration will provide your organization with exposure to a community that so deeply cares about the most pressing environmental issues of our time.

Take part in celebrating our storied past, present successes and exciting future. Benefactors Society members enable FAU Harbor Branch to continue expanding our core initiatives to make a significant and timely impact on critical ocean issues. Our work depends on strong partnerships with our supporters. We can only make a difference together. Our work depends on strong partnerships with our supporters. From preserving thousands of plant and animal species to buoying coastal communities’ economies, to understanding the interconnection between human health and ocean health; we can only make a difference together.