Collage of past filmfest activities
2026 International Ocean Film Festival
Learn More
Boat on the water
Travel Highlight of the Treasure Coast
Take A Tour
Gift Shop
FAU Harbor Branch Gift Shop

Research at HBOI

FAU Harbor Branch prioritizes solution-oriented research that addresses critical issues affecting coastal zone, oceans, and human well-being. Research scientists take a global approach, conducting studies around the world in varying climates, ecosystems, and cultures.

Harbor Branch campus building

Harbor Branch

5600 US 1 North, Fort Pierce, FL 34946聽聽聽772.242.2400

Florida Atlantic University (FAU) Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute is a world class research organization with a focus on exploring the marine environments, studying key species and understanding the connection between humans and the ocean. Founded in 1971 as Harbor Branch Oceanographic Foundation, Inc., the Institute expanded its reach to over 100 miles along Florida鈥檚 east coast when it joined Florida Atlantic University in 2007. Located in St. Lucie County, our 144-acre campus along the Indian River Lagoon employs over 200 scientists, engineers, educators, staff and 杏吧直播间. To this day, the Institute actively pursues solution-oriented research that addresses some of the most critical issues affecting coastal zones, oceans and human well-being.
NEWS
FAU Experts Available for Comment on 2026 Hurricane Season
FAU faculty are leading experts on a wide range of hurricane-related issues and are available to discuss topics such as forecasting, flooding, storm impacts, climate resilience and disaster recovery.
READ
Parasites Defy Biodiversity Rules, Thriving Far from the Equator
By tracking infections across snails, crabs and fish, FAU researchers reveal a surprising twist to a classic biodiversity pattern. Certain trematode parasites are more common in cooler, temperate waters.
READ
FAU-FWC Study: Endangered Smalltooth Sawfish Make a Comeback
FAU and FWC researchers report endangered smalltooth sawfish are making a comeback in a historical Florida nursery. Young fish repeatedly use the same mangrove-lined habitats - offering new hope for recovery.
READ
The 'Croak' Conundrum: Parasites Complicate Love Signals in Frogs
An FAU study shows parasites can affect mating signals in green treefrogs by subtly altering male calls, influencing how females choose mates.
READ
Additional Information
Florida Atlantic's Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute engages with the community through the Ocean Discovery Visitors Center and the Ocean Science Lecture Series. Harbor Branch鈥檚 research and outreach programs translate marine science in order to provide solutions that improve economies and quality of life for coastal communities.
Address
Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute
Florida Atlantic University
5600 US 1 North
Fort Pierce, FL 34946