The Australian Institute of Marine Science is a world leader in tropical marine research, expanding our nation’s knowledge hidden below the surface.

We provide:

unique insight into Australia’s tropical waters; and

knowledge to develop globally relevant and innovative research solutions

From Ningaloo in the west, across the Top End to the Great Barrier Reef, AIMS’ researchers understand large-scale, complex and emerging challenges in iconic marine habitats in Australia’s vast and remote tropical waters.

As a trusted name in marine science we look to Australia’s future needs and build upon our existing capabilities and knowledge to:

improve ocean health, and protect coral reefs from climate change.

Science fo rimpact

Through our half century of pioneering research, AIMS is uniquely placed to provide expert advice and solutions to help preserve our marine estate and ensure its sustainable use.

We don’t do this alone. With the help of the users of our science, our knowledge is applied where it can have the greatest impact. In return management agencies, marine industries, and coastal communities directly benefit from AIMS’ high quality, objective research.

More about AIMS impact

An island nation

Australians are closely connected to the sea through trade, energy, food, transport and play.

Our oceans’ futureis uncertain. Australia’s tropical marine ecosystems are under severe stressand coral reefs face imminent threats to their existence.

In these challenging times, AIMS’ science is essential to ensure our tropical oceans continue to provide sustainable wealth and enjoyment for generations to come.

More about our research

Research

The Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) is a global leader in tropical marine science. Consistently ranking among the top one per cent of specialist research institutions internationally, AIMS is known for its unique capacity to investigate topics ranging from broad-scale biodiversity and also ecology to microbiology.

AIMS provides research capability that is directly relevant to the sustainable use and conservation of both Australian and global tropical marine ecosystems.

The Institute's current research activities support the management of tropical marine environments in the face of threats such as climate change and declining water quality.

AIMS Data Centre

The data AIMS collects is described in detail in the AIMS Data Catalogue. The catalogue contains descriptions of data (often called metadata) which allows others, including researchers, to identify potential data of use to them. Data can then be downloaded (if available) or requested. Access to some data will be via legal data agreement.