The Whitney Marine Research Center, a LEED gold-certified building, brings cutting-edge technology and strengthens the lab’s capacity for marine research and discovery supporting ongoing work and training future scientists.
The $41.2 million facility more than doubles the laboratory’s previous research space and includes 12 state-of-the-art faculty laboratories, collaborative work areas and specialized research environments. Designed with an open-lab concept, the building encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and idea sharing among researchers.
New features include a dedicated microscopy space, aquaculture facilities and a maker space equipped with tools such as 3D printers and laser cutters to support custom research needs.
The center also houses an expanded Sea Turtle Hospital, increasing rehabilitation capacity and creating new opportunities for research, education and community engagement.
An interactive Discovery Lobby on the first floor offers visitors an immersive experience showcasing the laboratory’s research and programs. The space includes a large-scale hanging art installation inspired by marine life and microscopic organisms, supported by the state’s Art in State Buildings program.
Designed by Lord Aeck Sargent and TTV Architects and constructed by DPR Construction, the Whitney Marine Research Center strengthens UF’s position as a leader in marine bioscience and coastal research.
"The building gives us space and infrastructure to grow our research. It's a place where science is very closely tied to the environment around us. And where our vision is to use marine systems to drive discoveries that improve human health." - Veronica Hinman, Whitney Laboratory Director