Kiel University has taken a significant step in advancing marine research with the opening of its new Marine Science Campus on February 12. This initiative brings together scientists, technology, and society to study oceans, coastal ecosystems, and sustainable marine resource management.
A Center for Interdisciplinary Research
Located in Oskar-Heil-Haus, the campus was established as part of the Kiel Marine Science (KMS) priority program. Its mission is to strengthen interdisciplinary connections between research groups and foster public engagement.
The new center houses:
The KMS headquarters
The FYORD program, focused on supporting early-career researchers
The Centre for Ocean and Society (CeOS), which explores the impact of oceans on human life
The Kiel University Digital Office, integrating cutting-edge technology into marine research
State-of-the-Art Laboratories and New Frontiers in Science
The campus is equipped with advanced facilities for studying marine risks, climate change, and sustainable resource management. Key laboratories include:
VAMPIR – A calibration lab for precise measurements of water and atmospheric parameters
CeOS Visualization Lab – A research space for simulating marine processes and natural disasters
Science for Everyone: Events and Lectures
One of the campus’s core missions is to make knowledge accessible to the public. Planned activities include:
Networking events for scientists and students
Public lectures on marine ecosystems and climate change
Workshops to enhance public understanding of oceanic processes
Rapid Implementation of an Ambitious Vision
The transition from the university council’s decision to establish a unified marine research center to the relocation of the first research teams took just one year. This reflects Kiel University’s commitment to integrating science, technology, and education.
With the new campus opening, Kiel further cements its status as a global hub for marine research, bringing together deep scientific knowledge, cutting-edge technology, and a spirit of collaboration.