With a federally licensed processing plant that supports the investigation and development of seafood products or by-products, the Centre for Aquaculture and Seafood Development (CSAD) has supported the transition of the Atlantic Canada fishing industry through research in aquaculture and assistance in the development of a number of products that have been successful in the national and international marketplace. The CSAD’s aquaculture infrastructure also includes a freshwater laboratory dedicated to research on species showing promise for culture in Atlantic Canada, as well as salt water marine culture and fish health facilities. The Centre is now working with industry on the preparation of nutriceuticals, medicinal and pharmaceutical products from marine by-products and is examining the extraction of valuable materials from shrimp and crab shell waste and fish waste.

The Fishing Technology Unit (FTU) is committed to improving the viability of the local fish harvesting sector while focusing on the development of technology and harvesting strategies that lead to the improved sustainability of global fish resources. At the centre of FTU operations is the world's largest circulating water channel or "flume tank", equipped with a 20m long x 3m high observation window. The tank enables researchers to construct scale models of new fishing gear designs and to simulate their behaviour under controlled conditions. Underwater cameras and a data acquisition system provide information on the performance of the models. Full-size gear is tested at sea using vessels provided by industry partners.

The FTU was successful in the recent Canada Foundation for Innovation competition and received an award from the College Research Development Fund. This infrastructure funding, together with contributions from industry partners, will enable the Unit to significantly enhance its activities both onshore and at sea. In particular, the use of underwater cameras during sea trials will provide an improved understanding of fish movement, their reaction to fishing gear and the survivability of juvenile fish or unwanted species after encountering or passing through fishing gear. The Institute’s industry partners are anxious to adopt the new highly selective and environmentally friendly gear designs that will catch only fish of a specified species and maturity while leaving the ocean floor undamaged.

In developing its applied research activities, the Marine Institute has maintained its primary commitment to the quality of its education and training programs. The existence of the research units, and the involvement of industry, faculty and staff in research activities, has contributed significantly to the quality of programming. For example, the aquaculture facility infrastructure has enabled the development of advanced diploma and masters level programs that include first-hand, industry- relevant experience for the students. The Institute is now expanding its applied research activities into areas where the infrastructure has been used predominantly for training. For example, the new Office of Applied Research in Marine Operations will focus on the potential applications of the Institute’s marine simulation facilities including ship engineering and full motion bridge simulators.

The development and expansion of applied research at the Marine Institute, and at other colleges and institutes, is often directly relevant to industry. Operational funding is usually derived from industry partners or industry response training or service activities. Although college- or institute-based research is not of lesser value than university-based research, support is not available through the Federal funding agencies that support university research efforts. However, the recent allocation of funds in support of college applied research infrastructure through the Canada Foundation for Innovation, and the announcement of a second competition, represent a growing recognition of the economic value and the potential for growth in applied research and technology transfer activities in the college/institute sector.