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Research

FAU Harbor Branch prioritizes solution-oriented research that addresses critical issues affecting coastal zone, oceans, and human well-being. Research scientists take a global approach, conducting studies around the world in varying climates, ecosystems, and cultures.
Harbor Branch campus building

Harbor Branch

5600 US 1 North, Fort Pierce, FL 34946 772.242.2400
Florida Atlantic University (FAU) Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute is a world class research organization with a focus on exploring the marine environments, studying key species and understanding the connection between humans and the ocean. Founded in 1971 as Harbor Branch Oceanographic Foundation, Inc., the Institute expanded its reach to over 100 miles along Florida’s east coast when it joined Florida Atlantic University in 2007. Located in St. Lucie County, our 144-acre campus along the Indian River Lagoon employs over 200 scientists, engineers, educators, staff and students. To this day, the Institute actively pursues solution-oriented research that addresses some of the most critical issues affecting coastal zones, oceans and human well-being.
NEWS
FAU Researcher Receives U.S. Patent for Underwater Imaging Device
FAU Harbor Branch's Bing Ouyang, Ph.D., has received a patent for a new invention about the size of a soda can, which is a potential gamechanger in advanced underwater imaging technology.
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Protected Sex: Study Records Grouper Mating Calls in U.S. Caribbean
FAU Harbor Branch researchers deployed an autonomous, passive acoustic platform to survey marine protected areas on the western shelf of Puerto Rico during grouper reproductive seasons.
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DNA Decodes Dining Desires of Shell-Shucking Whitespotted Eagle Rays
FAU Harbor Branch researchers are the first to uncover the finer-scale feeding patterns of the whitespotted eagle ray in U.S. coastal waters.
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Sewage, Not Fertilizer Fueling Nitrogen Surge in Indian River Lagoon
FAU Harbor Branch researchers compared water quality in Florida's Indian River Lagoon "pre" and five-years "post" fertilizer bans, revealing sewage, not fertilizer is the root cause of environmental issues.
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HBOI ocean fish