The University of New Hampshire becomes host institution for the new NOAA Cooperative Institute Fostering Aquaculture Research and Markets (CIFARM) to expand NOAA’s impact and strengthen efforts to boost American seafood competitiveness.
After a highly competitive application process, this new five-year cooperative institute will harness partnerships with cutting-edge researchers to advance American marine aquaculture. Approximately $13,500,000 will be available this year for projects following the establishment of CIFARM.
‘The United States is finally recognizing aquaculture as a vital complement to our world-class fisheries,’ said NOAA administrator Neil Jacobs.
‘We look forward to collaborating with these exemplary partners to continue to unlock the potential of this industry in the United States.’
CIFARM researchers will investigate possibilities for industry advancement, including marine aquaculture demonstration projects, engineering and technology development, artificial intelligence for aquaculture, environmental observations and forecasting, risk management and vulnerability analysis, and seafood markets research.
These research priorities will also magnify scientific advancement through education, outreach, and engagement.
‘We are excited to partner with NOAA on this first-of-its kind cooperative institute to advance American aquaculture,’ said president of the University of New Hampshire Elizabeth Chilton.
‘By leveraging our coalition’s scientific excellence and regional expertise, we are poised to make great strides for the aquaculture industry.’
University of New Hampshire has partnered with a diverse suite of outstanding academic, industry, and non-governmental organisation partners, including New Hampshire Sea Grant, the University of Miami, Florida Sea Grant, University of Southern Mississippi, Mississippi-Alabama Sea Grant Consortium, Hubbs-Sea World Research Institute, California Sea Grant, University of Hawaii and Hawaii Sea Grant.
