The Center conducts interdisciplinary research to resolve issues related to coastal ecosystem health, environmental quality, and related public health impacts. Chemical, biomolecular, microbiological, and histological research is conducted to describe, evaluate, and predict the significant factors and outcomes of natural and human influences on marine and estuarine habitats. The Cooperative Oxford Laboratory in Oxford, Maryland is part of this Center.

Marine Biotoxins - This is research and scientific guidance for effective management of fisheries, public health, and ecosystem health on issues related to marine biotoxins and harmful algae. Toxin tests are developed to help insure seafood products are safe for consumers. Biomarkers identify toxin exposure, and are used to assess exposure risks important to public health. Studying bacteria-algal interactions and identifying genetic markers for harmful algal species helps determine ecosystem health.

Environmental Risk Analysis - This program seeks to lower the risk and severity of damage to resources and human health by identifying hazards and conducting risk assessments on shellfish harvesting, aquaculture development, and environmental characterization. Researchers study, synthesize, analyze, and disseminate information about natural and human processes influencing coastal health. The enhanced predictive capabilities and risk management options are used by resource managers, public health agencies, and the private sector.

Marine Ecotoxicology - This establishes links between land use and chemical contaminants in the marine environment. Researchers identify chemical and bacterial contaminants associated with human inputs from agriculture, urbanization, dredging operations and industrial discharges. These are related to toxicological and ecological impacts on marine and estuary ecosystems.

Pathobiology - Scientists investigate the role of marine disease in the distribution, abundance, edibility, and consumer demand for seafood products. They are also studying the role of natural and human factors on disease occurrence and persistence, as well as exploring animal health as an indicator of environmental health. Current research develops and applies these clinical and biochemical techniques to shellfish, marine mammal, and sea turtle diseases.

Living Marine Resources - To improve management and conservation of protected species such as marine mammals and sea turtles, scientists determine the effects of environmental impacts on animal health and long-term population viability. A multi-disciplinary approach is used that includes studies of bottlenose dolphin communities. This includes live-capture sampling, biopsy and biomolecular sampling for genetic and health indicators, and risk assessment modeling. In addition, stranded animals are studied to determine causes of mortality and improve understanding of animal health.

Marine Biotechnology & Genetics - The Biotechnology Program approaches critical management and enforcement decisions for the long-term conservation and use of living marine resources in a genetic context. Scientists use molecular and cellular biology to address issues of biodiversity, environmental health, marine and fisheries biology, and developing new marine products. Specific research currently focuses on rapid assay development, determining biomarkers of resources and ecosystem health and using molecular genetics to identify marine species.

Marine Forensics - This gives law enforcement agencies an extensive array of analyses for cases involving protected marine species. Technical support relates to threatened and endangered species, consumer fraud, violation of fisheries closures, and illegal taking of game fish. Identification analyses are used to prosecute illegal activities such as importing and selling sea turtle eggs and meat, selling illegal game fish, and fishing during closure periods, as well as determination of wild versus cultured marine animals.