This is our time - Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

This is our time

Ocean science for the global good

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution has a long history of advancing scientific understanding of our ocean. We continue this tradition through technological innovation and robust research to support enlightened decision-making.

Knowledge of the marine environment is crucial to understanding the rest of the planet, including the ocean’s value to humans.

A unique blend of sea-going vessels, innovative technologies, and state-of-the-art lab facilities is a recipe for ocean discovery.

Leveraging the best minds in ocean science, WHOI provides unparalleled resources and opportunities for the next generation.

Advancing climate solutions

The ocean plays a central role in global climate and regional weather patterns, including droughts, rainstorms, and hurricanes. It also may hold hope and solutions to some of humanity’s biggest environmental challenges, including climate change.

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Hope for corals in crisis

Coral reefs play a vital role in sustaining the health of our ocean and our planet, but they are dying at an alarming rate. We have a plan to use science to develop solutions and technology to scale-up those solutions to reach all reefs.

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Tackling whale entanglement

WHOI engineers developed a new type of lobster trap that can help save whales—and fishermen

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We have a vision. You can be part of it.

The ocean is a defining feature of our planet and crucial to life on Earth, yet it remains one of the planet’s last unexplored frontiers. More scientists have been to the International Space Station than the deep ocean–and we know more about the surface of the moon and Mars than our own sea floor.

At WHOI, we’re committed to understanding all facets of the ocean and its role in Earth’s life support systems. Our mission is to ensure society’s long-term welfare and stewardship of the environment by training future generations of ocean science leaders, providing unbiased information to support enlightened decision-making, and expanding awareness about the vital role of the ocean in our lives. Read our Vision 2030 to learn more.