School of Ocean Sciences, University of Wales, Bangor

Contact Information

Mission Statement

The School is committed to pursuing fundamental and applied research of the highest calibre across the spectrum of marine sciences. This involves understanding the physical, chemical and biological processes operating in the ocean and the behaviour of the organisms that live in it. It also requires developing insights into the way the ocean works as an integrated system and devising prognostic models to predict and hindcast its response to natural and anthropogenic changes.

Short Historical Statement

Founded in 1948 as a Marine Biology Station. Physical Oceanography and Marine Biology became separate university departments in the early 1960's. They merged to form the School of Ocean Sciences following the expansion of Oceanography in 1986. The School's Research Programme is organised through research groups in Physical Oceanography, Geological Oceanography, Marine Biology and Biogeochemistry. Each group is involved in focussed research in its own area, but there is also an emphasis on developing the exciting opportunities in interdisciplinary studies where the School now has considerable strength.

Major Programmes

The School is participating in a wide range of programmes funded by the DETR, MAFF, NERC and the EU. Some examples are:

• Shelf Sea Oceanography
• Marine Biogeochemistry
• Geological Oceanography
• Marine Biotechnology
• Marine Ecology and Physiology

Research Leaders

• Professor R Seed, Head of School
• Professor P Dando
• Professor A J Elliot
• Professor D A Jones
• Professor J H Simpson
• Professor P le B. Williams

Overseas Links

Numerous global links with Government Agencies and Universities.

Industrial Links

Numerous global links.

Special Facilities at Centre

• Aquaculture Facilities
• Microbiology
• Extensive Aquaria
• Stable Isotope Suite

Research Vessels Associated with the Centre

• The newly built Prince Madog,  a 34.4m research vessel fitted with state-of-the-art ships systems.