Interdisciplinary Centre for Marine and Environmental Research (CIIMAR)

Interdisciplinary Center for Marine and Environmental Research (CIIMAR)

Description

CIIMAR – Interdisciplinary Center for Marine and Environmental Research – is one of the main research and advanced training institutions of the University of Porto, working at the frontier of ocean knowledge and innovation.

It promotes an integrated approach to the oceans and coastal areas that enhances the understanding and knowledge of the biological, physical and chemical dynamics of these environments and the impact of natural and human activities, in order to unravel the links between these processes, capture the functioning of oceans and ecosystems and the responses to global changes.

CIIMAR uses knowledge-based approaches to promote natural capital and sustainable management of marine resources by monitoring ecosystem health, optimizing aquaculture and exploiting biotechnology resources for environmental and human health applications.

CIIMAR offers innovative solutions and products that respond to today’s economic and social challenges, including new medicines and marine products for industrial and medical needs, water quality, sustainable fisheries, preparation and mitigation of oil spills and other emerging contaminants, environmental monitoring and risk assessment, preservation of ecosystem services, ocean and coastal management, and ocean literacy.

Areas and Research Groups

The Center is scientifically organized into three research lines (Global Changes and Ecosystems Services, Marine Biotechnology and Biology, Aquaculture and Seafood Quality), which are subdivided into 10 research groups and 28 research teams. Each Research Group provides actions and scientific production that can fit into one or more lines of research.

CIIMAR implements several Transversal Programs to strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration among the different teams.