Together, we can drive discovery and unlock the ocean's potential.
OUR OCEAN.
OUR PLANET.
OUR FUTURE.®
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) is the world’s leading independent non-profit dedicated to ocean science, technology, education, and communication. Our work fuels economic growth, strengthens national security, and improves lives and livelihoods by advancing the frontiers of knowledge and accelerating the search for solutions to some of our most pressing challenges.
WHAT WE DO
UNDERSTAND
We tackle critical questions about our ocean planet, with practical applications for human lives and livelihoods. Our innovations in science and engineering fuel sustainable economic growth, safeguard coastal communities and marine resources, and strengthen American leadership in ocean science.
EXPLORE
The ocean is one of our planet's last frontiers—and access is key to understanding how it supports life on Earth. Our fleet of research vessels and underwater vehicles enable scientists to push the boundaries of knowledge about our ocean planet and ensure a safer, healthier, and more prosperous world for all.
EDUCATE
We’re equipping the next generation of ocean leaders with the knowledge and skills to tackle the complex challenges facing humanity. Our prestigious academic programs provide access to many of the best minds in ocean science, cutting-edge research facilities, and unparalleled access to the sea.
COMMUNICATE
We translate ocean science into knowledge people can use. Through stories, media, events, and trusted publications like Oceanus magazine, we share vital discoveries to support informed decisions—protecting our ocean, strengthening our nation, and securing a better future for humanity and the planet.
SCIENCE WITH IMPACT
Robots4Whales
Improving conservation efforts and maritime safety with ocean robots
National Deep Submergence Facility
Enabling discovery with a world-class fleet of underwater vehicles
Marine Microplastics Initiative
Investigating the impacts of microplastics on marine life and human health
Harmful Algal Blooms
Safeguarding public health and marine resources through national research program
Reef Solutions
Developing a toolkit of advanced diagnostics and interventions to save coral reefs
Ocean Observatories Initiative
Enabling research and protecting the nation with real-time data from offshore observatories
Ocean Twilight Zone
Understanding the mid-ocean's role in the marine ecosystem and climate
NES-LTER
Providing insights into changing conditions for New England’s famous fisheries
OCEAN INSIGHTS
USS Arizona provides blueprint for addressing oil leakage at thousands of WWII shipwrecks
The findings underscore the USS Arizona’s dual role as a solemn memorial and a "living laboratory."
The oceans just hit an ominous milestone
Scientists study fresh and brackish water deep beneath the seafloor
Marine life thrives on toxic WWII warheads dumped in Baltic Sea
Fish that live in ocean twilight zone are the missing links between sharks and their prey
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KNOW YOUR OCEAN
The ocean covers 71% of the planet and supports all life on Earth.
Discover more reasons to celebrate the ocean with our free educational resources:
Exploring the oceans in depth, highlighting the research and researchers at WHOI in news, features, and interviews.
EXPLORE WITH US
Help advance the frontiers of knowledge about our ocean planet! We offer a variety of ways to get involved