Scottish Association For Marine Science

SAMS is Scotland’s largest independent marine research organisation delivering innovative, world-class marine science solutions to developing a sustainable relationship with the marine environment. This is done through research, education, services to business and public engagement. SAMS has research expertise in areas including Arctic Seas, Marine Renewable Energy, People and the Sea and Dynamic Oceans. SAMS operates the modern and well-equipped Scottish Marine Institute at the scenic Dunstaffnage peninsula near Oban, Argyll and currently employs over 160 staff – including physical oceanographers, hydrographers, marine geologists, biogeochemists, microbial and molecular biologists, ecologists, social scientists and modellers. SAMS’ research is supported by an amazing infrastructure including research vessels, indoor and outdoor research aquaria, the Culture Collection of Algae and Protozoa, the National Facility for Scientific Diving, the Centre for Smart Observations, and the Centre for Sustainable Coasts. As well as research SAMS, delivers a comprehensive programme of education at undergraduate, post-graduate and PhD levels. SAMS also offers short CPD courses and operates a field studies centre for visiting groups. SAMS runs the commercial subsidiary SRSL (SAMS Research Services Ltd). SRSL provides marine environmental survey and consultancy services. SAMS also operates the business incubator the European Centre for Marine Biotechnology.