Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

Private, nonprofit research and higher education facility

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution
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Formation	1930
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Headquarters	Woods Hole, Massachusetts
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Website	www.whoi.edu

The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) is a private, nonprofit research and higher education facility dedicated to the study of marine science and engineering. It is located in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States. WHOI was established in 1930 and has since become one of the world's leading institutions in oceanographic research.

History

The institution was founded in 1930 by a group of scientists and philanthropists who recognized the need for a dedicated research facility to study the world's oceans. The initial funding was provided by the Rockefeller Foundation, and the institution has grown significantly over the years, expanding its research capabilities and facilities.

Research and Education

WHOI conducts a wide range of research in various fields of oceanography, including marine biology, marine chemistry, marine geology, and physical oceanography. The institution also offers graduate and postgraduate education programs in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research.

Research Vessels

WHOI operates several research vessels, including the RV Atlantis, which is equipped with the deep-submergence vehicle DSV Alvin. These vessels are used for a variety of research missions, from studying deep-sea ecosystems to investigating underwater geological formations.

Facilities

The institution's facilities include state-of-the-art laboratories, a marine operations center, and the Ocean Science Exhibit Center, which is open to the public and provides educational exhibits about oceanographic research.

Notable Achievements

WHOI has been involved in numerous significant discoveries and research projects. Some of the notable achievements include the discovery of hydrothermal vents, the development of advanced underwater vehicles, and contributions to the understanding of climate change and its impact on the oceans.

Collaborations

WHOI collaborates with various national and international organizations, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the National Science Foundation (NSF), and other leading research institutions around the world.

See Also

• Scripps Institution of Oceanography
• Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory
• Marine Biological Laboratory
• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration