Deakin Centre for Marine Science
Victoria’s leading marine research institution
Driving marine innovation for a sustainable future
The Deakin Centre for Marine Science leads marine science innovation in Victoria, with real-world impact on ocean economies and environmental sustainability.
Our research spans habitat restoration, sustainable aquaculture, climate resilience and coastal process monitoring. We work to revive ecosystems like mangroves and seaweed, support ethical seafood production and track environmental change to inform adaptation strategies.
Through cutting-edge science and collaboration, we’re driving lasting change for healthy, resilient oceans for years to come. Our data contributes to national monitoring systems, helping protect Australia’s marine future.
Our research areas
We’re tackling real-world challenges through impactful research and innovation across the following research areas:
- Restoring lost populations and habitats
- Innovating sustainable seafood
- Climate resilience
- Coastal and ocean processes
Welcome to the Deakin Centre for Marine Science
Our research spans habitat restoration, sustainable aquaculture, climate resilience and coastal process monitoring.
Dive into marine science at Deakin
Ever dreamt of being an ocean explorer? Hear from Deakin alumni as they share how a Bachelor of Marine Science helped them turn that dream into careers.
Dive into new discoveries
Join Deakin Marine and be part of Victoria’s leading marine research institution. Study with us to help drive innovation for a sustainable future for our oceans. Research topics include restoring ecosystems, pioneering sustainable seafood solutions and the climate impacts on oceans.
Our facilities
Our researchers have access to purpose-built facilities, where they can connect with marine habitats, industry and local communities to make groundbreaking discoveries.
Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus
Our Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus is a key hub for research and education in fisheries, aquaculture, marine microbiology, genomics and oceanography. As global marine and aquatic ecosystems face growing pressures from climate change, pollution and unsustainable practices, Deakin students will work in purpose-built facilities and contribute to innovative solutions in marine science.
Sustainable aquaculture
The campus is also home to the AquaFI Lab, a leading research group focused on sustainable aquaculture, aquatic animal health and environmental interactions. We work with industry and government to improve aquaculture practices, supporting the longterm health of aquatic ecosystems.
Warrnambool Campus
Our Warrnambool Campus offers a unique, hands-on learning environment by leveraging its proximity to the Great Southern Reef. Students gain practical skills in marine biology, oceanography, seafloor mapping and conservation, supported by on-campus labs and a dedicated research vessel.
Marine mapping
Deakin Marine Mapping, based on campus, is a leading research group focused on seafloor mapping across Victoria and beyond. With world-class oceanographic tech, including systems that collect thousands of soundings per minute, researchers can build highly detailed underwater models.
Queenscliff Marine Science Centre
The Deakin University Queenscliff Marine Science Centre is a newly upgraded, state-of-the-art facility dedicated to marine research and education. As the home of Victoria’s only dedicated undergraduate marine science degree, the Centre focuses on sustainability, climate resilience and environmental protection, providing students and researchers with real-world experience and contributing to a more sustainable future.
Kelp restoration
The Centre hosts Victoria’s first golden kelp seedbank to support large-scale restoration in Port Phillip Bay. Researchers collect and culture golden kelp to rebuild underwater forests impacted by sea urchins. They also cultivate seagrass and other kelp species to help restore marine biodiversity along the Victorian coast.
Latest news
Keep up with the latest news from the Deakin Centre for Marine Science.
Soaking up solutions: Humble marine sponges enhance ocean life
Deakin University researchers have joined scientists from SeaGen Aquaculture and Gippsland-based biotech company Offshore Biotechnologies to undertake the largest rapid assessment of marine sponge cultivation in Australia.
Between us: Dr Prue Francis and PhD candidate Kaylah Gawne
Marine scientist Dr Prue Francis is supervising Kaylah Gawne’s PhD, whether it’s in the lab or doing fieldwork on the back of a ute.
Contact us
Whether you’re interested in our research, want to collaborate or wish to stay updated on the latest developments at the Deakin Centre for Marine Science, get in touch.
