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

11 February 2019 News

HIE supports seaweed processing expansion at Arnish, Isle of Lewis

The Hebridean Seaweed Company Ltd, a seaweed processor based in the Isle of Lewis, has started work on a new £7m expanded facility after receiving £659,000 from Highlands & Islands Enterprise.

28 January 2019 News

Gael Force Group Ltd secures Accelerating Aquaculture Innovation funding support

The money will support a £914,000 project to develop new fish farming pens that can be used in offshore environments, while increasing productivity and improving fish welfare.

The AAI fund was launched in 2017 as a 30-month pilot programme, led by HIE, and delivered in partnership with Scottish Aquaculture Innovation Centre (SAIC). It offers SMEs in the aquaculture supply chain in the Highlands and Islands the opportunity of match funding to help commercialise innovative new processes, products, services or technologies.

10 December 2018 News

Hat-trick of success for EMSP research company

With a research base at the European Centre for Marine Biotechnology at the EMSP, CuanTec has recently celebrated a hat-trick of success.

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