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Office of Research & Advisory Services

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Office of Research & Advisory Services

The Office of Research and Advisory Services (ORAS) is the central administrative office charged with oversight of the Virginia Institute of Marine Science's (VIMS) research and advisory missions. 

ORAS is made up of two divisions -- research and advisory services - and led by the the Associate Dean of Research & Advisory Services (Assoc. DRAS) with support from the Assistant Dean of Research & Advisory Services (Asst. DRAS).

Associate Dean of Research & Advisory Services (Assoc. DRAS)

The ADRAS has administrative purview of VIMS’ centers.

Brief descriptions of each VIMS center that falls under the purview of the Assoc. DRAS.

Aquaculture Genetics and Breeding Technology Center (ABC)

Director: Jessica Small

Established at VIMS in 1997, ABC scientists at VIMS use a combination of selective breeding and genetic research to help restore declining populations of ecologically and commercially important marine species. The focus of ABC's restoration efforts is a long-term program to develop disease-tolerant strains of Crassostrea virginica, the native oyster in Chesapeake Bay.

Read more about Aquaculture Genetics and Breeding Technology Center current and ongoing research.

Center for Coastal Resources Management (CCRM)

Director: Kirk Havens

CCRM develops and supports integrated and adaptive management of coastal zone resources. Its mission is to support informed decision-making on resource management issues at multiple levels of government.

Read more about CCRM.

Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve in Virginia (CBNERR-VA)

Director: Willy Reay

CBNERR-VA is one of 30 protected areas that make up the National Estuarine Research Reserve System (NERRS) established to promote informed management of the nation's estuaries and coastal habitats.

Learn more about CBNERR-VA.

Eastern Shore Laboratory (ESL)

Director: Richard Snyder

VIMS' Eastern Shore Laboratory (ESL) serves as both a field station in support of research and teaching and as a site for resident research in coastal ecology and aquaculture. By virtue of its access to unique coastal habitats, excellent water quality, and an extensive seawater laboratory, the ESL affords educational and research opportunities not available elsewhere within the region. Over its 40-year history, the laboratory has become internationally recognized for shellfish research, with important contributions to molluscan ecology and culture.

Read more about  ESL's current research

Marine Advisory Program (MAP)

Director: David Rudders

The importance of advisory services at VIMS equals that of research and graduate education. While all VIMS faculty and scientists are from time-to-time involved in providing expert advice to the Commonwealth, the Marine Advisory Program at VIMS is unique in that it is home to scientists whose sole responsibility is for advisory programs on behalf of Commonwealth citizenry, marine industries, and government. 

The Marine Advisory Program at VIMS includes education, outreach, and technical assistance in the areas of aquaculture, commercial and sport fishing, marine education, marine business, and seafood technology and safety.

Learn more about MAP's advisory, education, outreach work.