Independent science for the benefit of New Zealand.

Our scientific research spans five key science themes, aligned with New Zealand’s marine and freshwater environments and resources.

Independent science for the benefit of New Zealand.

Our research spans five key science themes, aligned with New Zealand’s marine and freshwater environments and resources.

Aquaculture

Our research and development directly supports the success of New Zealand’s ocean economy. We collaborate with industry on innovative solutions that optimise the performance and quality of New Zealand’s key aquaculture species (oyster, mussel and salmon) without environmental compromise. We are at the forefront of research that will support the integration of seaweed as the third pillar of our aquaculture industry, alongside finfish and shellfish.

Seafood Safety

We are leaders in the field of seafood safety research and development, with expertise in the fields of marine biotoxin detection, harmful algal bloom monitoring, safety certification and compliance testing to ensure market access.

Algae & Bioactives

Bioactive compounds are a significant and largely untapped resource that could provide new products and solutions to a range of industries, from nutra and pharmaceuticals, to food production.​ Cawthron Institute researchers are strongly focused on realising the potential of marine bioactive resources, holding global expertise in the isolation, characterisation, extraction, cultivation and modification of bioactive compounds from a range of marine organisms including algae.

Freshwater Health

Our science underpins the establishment of monitoring and assessment frameworks and informs the development of national and regional freshwater policy. We work with land managers, government, industry, and the public to find solutions to complex freshwater management problems and to enable more sustainable resource use.

Ocean Health

We work closely with industry and government stakeholders to provide advice about impacts and effects of marine activities, develop detection, prevention and mitigation strategies and tools for marine biosecurity incursions, monitor marine mammal populations and develop monitoring methodologies and tools for estuarine ecosystems.

Laboratory Testing

Our laboratories provide independent testing services for the food and natural products sector to meet our customers’ food safety and export requirements. We also provide specialist research and development analytical solutions for customers with unique needs and we are the premier lab in marine and freshwater biotoxin testing and microalgae analysis.