About
"Nothing in the sea falls haphazard; if we cannot predict, it is because we do not know the cause, or how the cause works..."
H.B. Bigelow, 1929.
Scientific exploration at Bigelow Laboratory ranges from the study of single-celled ocean microbes to fieldwork on the open seas and analysis of satellite images of global ecosystems. Our primary research focus is on the biogeochemical processes of the world's oceans, in order to advance society's understanding of the interactions between marine ecosystems, global climate, and the environment.
Named for Henry Bryant Bigelow, a visionary scientist and pioneer of modern oceanography, Bigelow Laboratory was founded in 1974 as a private, non-profit research institution. Henry Bigelow's approach to oceanography stressed the interdependence of the biological, chemical and physical sciences. This perspective has served as a cornerstone of our programs throughout our history.
Federal research grants support most of Bigelow Laboratory's basic operations and administrative needs; however, we rely on other sources of support, such as gifts from individuals and private foundations, for our public education and outreach programs.
Bigelow Laboratory's strength lies in the expertise and dedication of our senior research scientists, science staff, and administrative staff, and the support of our Board of Directors, Honorary Trustees, donors, and friends.
10 March 2010: Bigelow Laboratory's presentation to Congresswoman Chellie Pingree's office requesting for federal funding for their project "Enhancing the US national Culture Collection for Marine Phytoplankton."