The natural home for marine science

The rich marine resources of the Highlands of Islands of Scotland underpin a vibrant and growing economic cluster based on marine science. This includes innovative enterprises, world-class research, excellent locations and facilities, a skilled talent pool, strong government support for business and close links between policy makers, industry and academia.

1st Class

LABORATORY AND
RESEARCH FACILITIES

150+

SCIENTISTS IN ALL FIELDS OF
MARINE SCIENCE

3000

STRAINS OF MARINE & FRESHWATER
ALGAE, PROTISTS AND SEAWEEDS

In depth

Get the latest news and insights from the marine science sector happening inside our cluster.

SAMS Research Services Ltd

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"Highlands and Islands Enterprise is doing more than just creating the conditions for business growth. Without the business support of HIE we couldn’t have achieved what we have."

Glycomar

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It's exciting to help facilitate and assist some of the innovative and exciting marine science projects that this country has to offer.

Xanthella Ltd

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Malin House is an excellent base from which we can grow Xanthella. The building’s light and airy atmosphere makes it a great place to work and the low carbon footprint really fits our company’s ethos. We are looking forward to welcoming guests, collaborators and customers to our new facility and to closer working with scientists at the Scottish Association for Marine Science.

LALLEMAND AQUAPHARM

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A broad and diverse R&D resource situated close to some of the world's leading marine research organisations.

Latest News

14 March 2019 News

MAXiMAR study highlights enormous marine economy development potential for Highlands and Islands

Entitled ‘Maximising the Marine Economy in the Highlands and Islands’ (MAXiMAR), the study focuses on supporting the growth of aquaculture, energy and marine biotechnology which are the most highly innovative sectors.

Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) led the wide-ranging consortium to conduct the study which is known as a science and innovation audit’ (SIA) and is part of a UK Government sponsored series of audits.

Opportunities highlighted in the report include building on the existing research, testing and demonstration infrastructure to meet the needs of the industry, growing innovation in the sector and expanding the skills base, as well as attracting new businesses to the region.

Explore The Cluster

Located on Scotland’s West Coast, 3 miles east of Oban, the cluster has a wide range of facilities and skills to support business growth.

Launch Map