Aquatic Animal Health Laboratory

Lobsters in aquatic research labPhone: 207.581.2767

A partnership of  UMaine Aquaculture Research Institute and UMaine Extension

NEW! Specialized containment aquaria facilities

NEW! Aquaria facilities with adjoining Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) research laboratories

NEW! Ability to conduct advanced research on new and emerging pathogens exotic to Maine

NEW! Increased potential for collaboration with Maine’s biotechnology sector

What we can accomplish together:

Research & Development — Our team provides all aspects of oversight and programmatic assistance to support teaching, training, and in vivo, in vitro, wet, and dry laboratory research. The group pursues independent and collaborative research related to bio-defense and aquatic animal diseases of bacterial, viral, and pathogenic varieties. Graduate and undergraduate students are integrated into our research for workforce development.

Product Development — We conduct translational research to advance vaccine products from initial development towards commercialization in preparation for regulatory oversight by actively monitoring efficacy, safety, and toxicology. The ARI also investigates novel vaccine delivery methods to further these features.

Challenge and Trial Services — We have experience in a range of bacterial, viral, and parasitic disease challenge models. The skilled facility staff provides quality aquatic animal husbandry services, veterinary care, facility management support for finfish and shellfish, and a variety of technical services.

Laboratory Services — Research capabilities include stable cell line generation, vaccine characterization, cell culture, cellular and non-cellular immunology, antigen purification, prototype product formulation, analytical testing, bacterial and viral genetics, histology, and a full range of diagnostic services.

fish in an aquarium

For more information on Aquatic Animal Health Services, contact Deborah Bouchard