Facilities and Infrastructure
World-class resources for world-class research
World-class researchers need top-notch facilities
OFI-affiliated researchers often have access to the following resources.

Research Implementation Unit

The Research Implementation Unit (RIU), based at Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia, is comprised of qualified personnel with expertise in instrument support, field logistics, and data management.

Deploying wave glider in the field

RIU has extensive experience in supporting oceanographic and geophysical research, and the technical and scientific expertise to ensure the success of research initiatives in Atlantic Canada. From mission planning to sensor calibration and everything in between, we offer a wide range of services to ensure your next project will be a success.

Explore the Research Implementation Unit

Dalhousie University

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Memorial University of Newfoundland

St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador
  • Core Science Facility
    42,000-square-meters of modern research space and a catalyst for collaboration and new discoveries.

University of Prince Edward Island

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
  • Atlantic Veterinary College
    An interconnected network of aquatic research centres and programs, involving internationally renowned researchers who collaborate with industry, government, and academic partners. Facilities include state-of-the-art aquatic research laboratories, a 12,000-square-foot aquatic animal facility and an ISO-17025 accredited diagnostic service.

L'Université du Québec à Rimouski

Rimouski, Québec

L'Université Laval

Quebec City, Quebec
  • Institut Nordique du Québec
    A new building with climatic labs, a logistic center for research activities in the North and state-of-the-art instruments in the context of natural, health and social sciences.
  • Research station in Qikiqtarjuaq
    This research station based in the Inuit community of Qikiqtarjuaq offers lab space, storage and accommodation to study the Eastern Baffin Island and Baffin Bay.

Scientific networks

OFI collaborates with a broad network of scientific organizations, such as:

  • Ocean Tracking Network
    Using electronic tags to track more than 140 commercially important and endangered species in 29 countries. OTN provides the expertise and technology to launch important components of the OFI’s research.
  • Marine Environmental Observation, Prediction, and Response
    A national network of centres of excellence, connecting top marine researchers across Canada with highly qualified personnel, partners, and communities. MEOPAR aims to train the next generation of marine research professionals, fund leading-edge research, and connect research results to real-world solutions.
  • Canadian Healthy Oceans Network
    Develops new conservation strategies for Canada’s changing ocean by partnering with Canadian university researchers and government scientists.  
  • DeepSense
    Collaborates with OFI to empower researchers in maximizing the utilization of their ocean data through cutting-edge technologies, such as machine learning, advanced visualizations, and strategic data management. This partnership involves offering technical support to researchers, enabling them to fully utilize their data and utilize AI and machine learning models beyond their current skill level.

Ships

OFI works with partners to share access to ship time and in-water infrastructure to reduce costs, carbon impacts, and accelerate the speed at which research is conducted.

Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University

  • MV Anne S. Pierce
    A training and research vessel.
  • RV Gecho II
    A highly sophisticated inshore hydroacoustic research vessel.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada 

OFI researchers often have access to Canadian government research vessels, such as the CCGS Amundsen.

L'Université du Québec à Rimouski 

  • RV Coriolis II
    A 50-metre oceanographic research vessel equipped with the latest technologies certified for international waters.

Industry and innovation connections

Through industry connections and collaborations, OFI creates pathways to enable researchers to increase the impact of their research.  Researchers help industry with science and technology innovations and are empowered to bring their research to the market through entrepreneurial training and commercialization mentorship.

  • Innovation and Commercialization Strategy
    Our Innovation and Commercialization Strategy is designed to accelerate ocean science, technology, and industry innovations. The focus is facilitating and funding collaboration opportunities that engage research expertise, programs, and assets with strategic partners.  Researchers drive breakthrough solutions, accelerate growth, and shape the future of the ocean frontier through partnerships with funders, startups, and industry leaders.
  • The Centre for Ocean Ventures and Entrepreneurship
    COVE provides a home to ocean technology businesses, start-ups, researchers, and marine-based and service businesses that support the ocean technology sector. With a prime waterfront location on one of the largest harbours in the world, COVE is near major ocean research institutes and world-leading ocean-technology.
  • Creative Destruction Lab – Atlantic: Oceans Stream
    The Oceans Stream at CDL-Atlantic brings together experienced entrepreneurs, investors, and leading scientists from around the world who are active in the ocean industry. The focus is on mentoring early-stage science and technology companies with innovative ocean technologies that have the promise to scale into very large markets for maximum impact.
  • Dal Innovates
    Dal Innovates provides opportunities for students and faculty at Dalhousie University to explore and experience innovation and entrepreneurship. They help to develop knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to translate new ideas into innovations. Their goal is to empower participants to be the best innovators, creators, and entrepreneurs and make an impact on local and global challenges.