The Ocean Sciences Centre (OSC) offers an extensive range of facilities and services designed to support cutting-edge research, industry collaboration, and academic training in marine and freshwater sciences. With state-of-the-art equipment and expert support, the OSC is a hub for innovation in ocean science and aquaculture.

Aquatic Facilities

Our aquatic facilities are equipped to hold a variety of marine and freshwater organisms, including flora and fauna, for extended periods at ambient or controlled water temperatures. These facilities also support live food production essential for fish and invertebrate culture, ensuring optimal conditions for experimental and aquaculture research.

Dr. Joe Brown Aquatic Research Building (JBARB)

The JBARB combines research space with semi-commercial hatchery production of marine finfish and shellfish. It serves as an incubator for marine aquaculture companies and provides hands-on training opportunities for students and industry professionals.

Cold-Ocean Deep-Sea Research Facility (CDRF)

The CDRF offers researchers advanced infrastructure and equipment for studying marine and freshwater organisms, particularly those from Arctic and North Atlantic waters. Key features include:

• Aquatic Containment Labs for research on pathogens and invasive species.
• Deep-sea equipment, including IPOCAMP® vessels for pressurized seawater studies up to 3000 m depth and multi-tank systems (9-35 L) for controlled experimentation.

Research Support Vessels

Our fleet includes a Boston Whaler and two zodiacs, ideal for collecting organisms and conducting fieldwork. Certified scientific divers are available year-round to provide live specimens and support research requiring underwater surveys, sampling, or observations.

Laboratories and Specialized Equipment

The OSC features 57 laboratories of varying sizes, many equipped with flowing seawater systems or specialized instruments for:

• Analytical chemistry, biochemistry, physiology, and molecular biology (genetics and genomics).
• Microscopy, histology, and image analysis.
• High-performance equipment such as gas chromatographs, mass spectrometers, nutrient analyzers, fluorescence microscopes, and more.

Shared-use facilities include cold rooms for temperature-sensitive experiments, histology suites, and molecular biology labs with cutting-edge analytical instrumentation.

Field Services and Vehicles

Our field services include a fleet of 4x4 truck, a five-ton vehicle equipped with two 2000L tanks for live organism transport, and a shuttle van for transportation to and from campus.

Marine Public Education Program

We engage the public through seasonal tours featuring resident seals and a touch tank with marine flora and fauna, fostering curiosity and awareness about marine ecosystems.

Lab, Workshop, and Field Services

We provide expert technical support and consultation through our lab and workshop services, offering assistance with research setup, equipment maintenance, and field operations.

User Fees

Access to our facilities and equipment may incur user fees, including services at the JBARB and CDRF. Detailed information on fees can be found on the OSC User Fee Page.

Explore and Collaborate

The Ocean Sciences Centre is dedicated to advancing marine research and innovation. Our facilities and services are tailored to meet the diverse needs of researchers, industry professionals, and educators. Contact us to learn how we can support your next project!