Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) is the world's premier independent organization dedicated exclusively to ocean research, technology, and education. We combine state-of-the-art science, engineering, and ship operations to unravel the mysteries of the deep and devise science-based solutions to planet-wide problems.
RECENT NEWS
Next on Ocean Encounters: Rising Seas, Resilient Coasts
Join us for a conversation about the drivers and consequences of sea level rise—and how we can adapt. Wed., April 24 at 7:30 p.m. ET
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Just another day in the office for Franco, officially the cutest puppy on campus! He’s in charge of testing Remus100 at our Ocean Systems Lab and making sure that @rvneilarmstrong is safe at the dock… with a little help from his human, @emiii.lau 🐶
Apr 22
🛥️ Did your boat spend the winter under wraps? #CapeCod boaters and marinas can recycle CLEAN used shrink wrap, now through June 30!
♻️ This high-quality plastic is 100% recyclable– and doing so keep 15-25 pounds of trash per boat from the waste stream! (If everyone on Cape Cod does it, that would add up to 2 MILLION pounds!)
📲 Find details and instructions for easily removing shrink wrap from your boat at the link in bio!
This free program is made possible by several Cape towns, @ccextension, and @whoiseagrant
Apr 22
🌎 Happy #EarthDay from all of us at WHOI! 🌏
Throughout #EarthWeek, we’ll be sharing our research on the marine #microplastics problem– and potential solutions.
Check out our tips for reducing your own #plastic 👣, and follow us to stay informed!
Apr 22
🏖️ Are you searching for the perfect #beachbag? No need to scour the abyssopelagic for it! This reversible #tote displays the diverse array of creatures that live at various depths– and is made from durable, 100% recycled canvas.
🌊Best of all, your purchase from the #WHOI Shop supports our research– in every ocean zone!
Apr 21
🚣🏼♀️🏖️🧑🏽🌾Outdoor season is upon us! Show your support for marine research while protecting yourself from the sun and wind!
With 44+ UPF sun defense, moisture-wicking fabric, and comfortable fit, this cooling performance crew is the perfect year-round choice for sports and exercise. Available in light blue, yellow, silver, and mint.
📲 Get your #WHOI sun shirt today!
Apr 20
14 years ago today, an explosion on BP`s offshore oil rig #DeepwaterHorizon caused the biggest #oilspill in American history. Chris Reddy, a #WHOI marine chemist who was part of the 2011 scientific response team, says that the disaster left an important legacy: research into the fate of oil– and #plastic– in the ocean.
"One of the most significant research findings from Deepwater Horizon was the role of sunlight in degrading oil," Reddy says. "All of the research into how plastic breaks down that Collin Ward and I have done since 2018 is built upon that work."
📲 So is the silver lining made of biodegradable plastic? Check the link in bio and decide for yourself!
📸 by Chris Reddy © WHOI
Apr 20
OUR WORK
WHOI is at the forefront of groundbreaking science and technology development, unlocking the mysteries of our ocean, its connections to life on Earth, and solutions it may hold to some of our most pressing environmental challenges.
Our scientists and engineers lead more than 800 concurrent projects, tackling some of the most challenging and important problems of our time, from climate change and ocean pollution to sustainable food and energy production.
We operate a fleet of research vessels and vehicles, including two large ships (R/V Neil Armstrong and R/V Atlantis), a smaller coastal research vessel, the iconic human-occupied submersible Alvin, and dozens of other underwater robots.
Through our higher education programs, including the prestigious MIT-WHOI Joint Program, we train new generations of ocean scientists, engineers, and leaders-providing access to cutting edge facilities and unparalleled access to the sea.
WHOI plays a leading role in ocean communications, sharing our insights and knowledge about the ocean to the general public, policymakers, educators, and more, so we can make wise decisions about our ocean, our planet, and our future.
FEATURED PROJECTS
We have over 1,000 scientists, engineers, technicians, and support staff working around the globe and cutting edge laboratories to push the boundaries of knowledge about the ocean.
Ocean and Climate Innovation Accelerator
Bringing together industry, academia, and philanthropy to develop and accelerate new climate change solutions.
Ocean Twilight Zone
Exploring the globe-spanning region beneath the sunlit upper ocean where life thrives
Ocean Worlds
Discovering the links between life in our ocean and the search for life beyond Earth
Marine Microplastics Initiative
Investigating the fate of microplastics and their impacts on marine life and human health
Super Reefs
Searching for corals around the world to help ensure a future for reefs in a warming ocean
Ocean Observatories Initiative
The NSF-funded program measures physical, chemical, geological and biological properties from the seafloor to the air-sea interface.
HADEX
Research and exploration of the deepest parts of the ocean, Earth’s final frontier
Reef Solutions
Working to protect corals and reverse the global decline of reef ecosystems
