NOAA strengthens commitment to aquaculture through new cooperative institute

NOAA strengthens commitment to aquaculture through new cooperative institute More than $13M invested in research partnerships to bolster American seafood competitiveness June 8, 2026 Today, NOAA announced the University of New Hampshire as host institution for the new NOAA Cooperative Institute Fostering Aquaculture Research and Markets (CIFARM) to expand NOAA’s impact and strengthen efforts to boost American seafood competitiveness. After a highly competitive application process, this new five-year cooperative institute will harness partnerships with cutting-edge researchers to advance American marine aquaculture. Approximately $13,500,000 will be available this year for projects following the establishment of CIFARM. “The United States is finally recognizing aquaculture as a vital complement to our world-class fisheries,” said Neil Jacobs, Ph.D., NOAA administrator. “We look forward to collaborating with these exemplary partners to continue to unlock the potential of this industry in the United States.”CIFARM researchers will investigate solutions that can be leveraged for industry advancement, such as: Marine aquaculture demonstration projects;Engineering and technology development; Artificial intelligence for aquaculture;Environmental observations and forecasting;Risk management and vulnerability analysis; andSeafood markets research.These research priorities will also magnify scientific advancement through education, outreach, and engagement.“We are excited to partner with NOAA on this first-of-its kind cooperative institute to advance American aquaculture,” said Elizabeth Chilton, Ph.D., president of…

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