CCMAR – Centre of Marine Sciences (Universidade do Algarve)

CCMAR – Centre of Marine Sciences is a non-profit research organization based on the Gambelas campus of the University of Algarve, in Faro, Portugal. Recognized for its excellence, CCMAR holds the status of Associate Laboratory alongside CIIMAR, and employs around 200 staff members, 80 of whom hold PhD degrees. Its mission is centered on understanding, protecting and exploring the ocean, with research spanning marine ecology, biodiversity, paleoclimatology, ocean observation, aquaculture, biotechnology, and fisheries management. The centre operates numerous laboratories and specialized facilities, including a Scientific Diving Centre, macroalgae and kelp cultivation labs, and microscopy platforms. CCMAR is also a partner in EMSO-Portugal, contributing to a long-term oceanic observation system along the Iberian Margin, including an autonomous observatory station south of Sagres that continuously monitors ocean temperature, salinity, oxygen, turbidity, chlorophyll-a and currents. Beyond research, CCMAR is deeply committed to science communication and education, running an Ocean Education Unit that organizes citizen science projects and an annual Marine Sciences Fair to engage students and the public with ocean-related topics such as marine ecology, climate change, and blue biotechnology. The centre hosts international students, including through the IMBRSea program, offering hands-on experience in marine research across multiple scientific disciplines. With over 40,000 followers on LinkedIn and a strong international research network spanning more than 20 partner institutions worldwide, CCMAR plays a key role in advancing marine science in Portugal and Europe, supporting evidence-based decisions on ocean conservation and climate resilience.