Core Values

At Bigelow Laboratory, we use innovative approaches to unlock the incredible opportunity of the ocean. All our work is guided by a set of shared values that define our unique approach.

• We believe that transformative science is like great art and thrives in an environment where creativity is valued and scientists are continually challenged.
• We continually strive to find ways our science can be utilized to benefit society.
• We recognize that any science will only reach its full potential if it leverages tools and ideas from other disciplines.
• We invest in basic research and recognize its proven value in long-term discovery and progress.
• We are nimble and do not allow process or precedent to hinder the best possible science.
• We believe there is power in embracing the full range of experience and backgrounds of a broad community to advance science and are committed to supporting each other as individuals worthy of respect.
• We encourage every person, in every position, to continually learn, improve, and innovate.
• We embrace our students’ ability to challenge our perceptions and strive to empower our students to think critically and aim high.
• We clearly and broadly communicate our findings and their importance.
• We accept risk and believe that if we never fail, we aren’t reaching high enough!

Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences Land Acknowledgement

Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences acknowledges the peoples of the Wabanaki Confederacy – the Penobscot, Passamaquoddy, Maliseet, and Micmac people, and others who may have ancestral connection to the land on the shores of the Damariscotta River, in the region where our campus is now located. As the research conducted by Bigelow Laboratory scientists has local and global reach, we aspire to the ongoing process of ethical, equitable and respectful collaboration with local and Indigenous communities wherever we engage in research in Maine and beyond. This process supports our mission to study the foundation of global ocean health and unlock its potential to improve the future for all life on our planet.