USM Gulf Coast Research Lab celebrating 75 years
The University of Southern Mississippi’s Gulf Coast Research Lab is celebrating 75 years.
The research laboratory was founded on August 29th, 1947, the Mississippi Legislature approved a bill in 1948 to make it official.
Today, the research lab continues the same vision from its founding and continues to strengthen the blue economy with more than 200 students, faculty, and staff.
It became an official part of Southern Miss in 1988. The director of the Gulf Coast Research Lab Dr. Kelly Darnell said it is one of the largest marine labs in the southeast United States.
Dr. Darnell said the work done is innovating in answering real-world questions and setting the stage for future research and knowledge. “Our proximity right here with the Gulf of Mexico really allows us to be leaders. Our faculty, staff, and students work so collaboratively and advancing and working with the Blue Economy really is a benefit and resource for Mississippi.”
