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This version of NSU News has been archived as of February 28, 2019. To search through archived articles, visit nova.edu/search. To access the new version of NSU News, visit news.nova.edu.
This version of SharkBytes has been archived as of February 28, 2019. To search through archived articles, visit nova.edu/search. To access the new version of SharkBytes, visit sharkbytes.nova.edu.
Groundbreaking for America’s Largest Coral Reef Research Center, Mar. 9
NSU’s Oceanographic Center will have a groundbreaking ceremony to launch the construction of America’s largest coral reef research center on Mar. 9. Known as the Center of Excellence for Coral Reef Ecosystems Science Research Facility, the 86,000-square-foot building will cost $30 million. NSU is using a $15-million federal stimulus grant to build the facility. NSU was among 12 universities out of 167 applying nationwide to receive the competitive and prestigious grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce. NSU was one of two universities that received the full amount of $15 million. The coral reef facility is expected to create 22 new academic jobs and 300 construction jobs, employ 50 graduate students, and preserve 22 existing academic jobs. It’s expected to open in January 2012.
An artist rendering of NSU’s Oceanographic Center’s Center of Excellence for Coral Reef Ecosystems Science Research Facility.
“I am thrilled that Nova Southeastern University has this opportunity to continue its leadership role in Florida’s and the nation’s science and research economy,” said NSU Chancellor Ray Ferrero, Jr., J.D. “This type of research infrastructure is urgently needed to support economic growth and environmental sustainability in our region.”
Using the largest research grant in NSU’s history, the center will be the only research facility in the nation dedicated to coral reef ecosystem research, which are the reefs and their surrounding environment. It will have space for offices, laboratories that allow for research collaboration, training, and staging for fieldwork. The goal is to expand research by current and new faculty researchers, visiting scientists, post-doctoral fellows, and graduate students.