Gulf of Maine Research Institute
The Gulf of Maine Research Institute (GMRI) is a nonprofit organization focused on the resilience of the Gulf of Maine ecosystem and its communities, combining marine research with education and community support.
About Gulf of Maine Research Institute
The Gulf of Maine Research Institute (GMRI) is an independent, objective nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the resilience of the Gulf of Maine ecosystem and the communities that depend on it. GMRI leverages the Gulf of Maine to develop and test solutions to global ocean challenges. By combining world-class marine research with robust community and education programming, GMRI seeks to understand the interactions between natural, social, and economic systems.
Programs and Initiatives
GMRI operates a variety of interdisciplinary programs and initiatives aimed at supporting science, education, community, and strategic efforts. Key programs include the Blue w(AI)ve Accelerator, a 16-week program for early-stage companies using artificial intelligence in ocean-based solutions; Gulf of Maine Tastemakers, promoting local seafood; and LabVenture, providing hands-on science experiences for students. Other initiatives include Community Resilience Training, which supports rural coastal communities in climate preparedness, and the Municipal Climate Action Program (MCAP)’s Planning Forward workshop for community resilience planning.
Research Labs
GMRI hosts several specialized research labs focusing on different aspects of marine science. The Coastal Dynamics Lab studies changes in coastal and estuarine water levels to support coastal management and flood forecasting. The Quantitative Fisheries Research lab aims to improve marine resource management, while the Fisheries Ecology lab examines ecological data on crucial fish species. The Pelagic Fisheries lab focuses on migratory species, and the Integrated Systems Ecology lab analyzes ocean dynamics to inform sustainability efforts. Additionally, the Climate Change Ecology lab investigates the impact of warming, acidification, and deoxygenation on marine ecosystems.
Climate Initiatives
GMRI's Climate Center utilizes scientific data to predict ocean changes and support communities that rely on the Gulf of Maine. Notable climate initiatives include the Preparing Communities for Sea Level Rise project, which aids coastal communities in assessing climate risks and identifying adaptation strategies. The Northeast Climate Integrated Modeling (NCLIM) project aims to refine decision-making processes for fisheries to be more forward-looking. The Climate Adaptation Strategies for Northeast U.S. Fishing Communities project provides community-specific information for future ecosystem and fisheries planning. GMRI also offers Gulf of Maine Warming Updates to provide insights into regional climate trends.
Community Engagement and Education
GMRI emphasizes community engagement and educational programming through various initiatives. The Community Science Program involves local communities in meaningful scientific research and monitoring efforts. The Learning Sciences lab seeks to improve the understanding of teaching and learning processes. The Sustainable Seafood Program supports the local seafood industry by promoting sustainable fishery practices. Additionally, GMRI offers numerous events throughout the year, including lectures and workshops, to educate and involve the community in marine science and conservation efforts.