Welcome to the CMS online
The Centre for Marine Sciences (formerly the Marine Science Unit) was formed in 1990 under the guidance of Prof Ivan Goodbody.
The University of the West Indies (Mona) has a long history of research and graduate training in the marine sciences especially through its Port Royal and Discovery Bay Marine Laboratories which were established in the 50’s and 60’s respectively. The Centre for Marine Sciences (CMS) brings together marine scientists, based in diverse departments, as a multi-disciplinary group, able to work together on the complex environmental and social issues related to the development of coastal and marine resources.The Centre for Marine Sciences conducts and facilitates research in the marine environment of Jamaica and the wider Caribbean, exploring the presence and status of coastal and marine species and resources while providing sound environmental advice to Governments and Non-Governmental Organizations. In an attempt to get islandwide coverage of marine and coastal issues, the Centre conducts research at new locations while continuing to monitor known sites using a balance of pure and applied research.
Main focus areas
The CMS currently focuses on the creation and co-ordination of educational, management and research projects related to:
- Ecosystem studies
Studies on the status and ecology of important coastal ecosystems including coral reefs, sea grass beds, mangrove forests, estuaries, lagoons and embayments. - Coastline Management
Oceanographic investigations along the North and South coasts of the Jamaica, and the impacts of waves and currents on shoreline stability and protection. - Pollution Monitoring & Mitigation
Studies on the physical oceanography, chemistry and biology of pollution in bays (Kingston Harbour, Hellshire, Discovery Bay, St. Thomas) and offshore. - Marine Research
Pure and applied research on the biology of marine organisms including fish, corals, marine plants and plankton.
