Service Centers

Bigelow Laboratory researchers utilize cutting-edge, in-house services that drive discoveries, solutions, and inspiration across the institute. We make many of these same services available to other researchers around the world.

Bigelow Analytical Services (BAS) offers a broad suite of services to public and private entities in various fields including marine chemistry, aquaculture, pharmacy, and fisheries. Our experienced scientists and technicians provide the highest-quality testing in a timely manner.

Center for Algal Innovations (CAI) is a recently launched Impact Center at Bigelow Laboratory, that has developed from our research on the NCMA Culture Collection. CAI is a research and development engine focused on the translation of basic research on microalgae into commercial outputs and solutions-based applications. CAI has three 'legs', where we support both internal and external contracted research with microalgae, run professional development short courses, and provide fabrication laboratory facilities relevant to microalgae.

Center for Aquatic Cytometry (CAC)

The Center for Aquatic Cytometry was established by Dr. Clarice Yentsch, who pioneered the use of flow cytometry in aquatic environments. Today, scientists from around the world use the center’s expertise for everything from standard analyses to the development of new applications. In-situ field samples can be analyzed on site, and data sets can be compiled for long-term monitoring and assessment of environmental changes.

National Center for Marine Algae and Microbiota (NCMA)

The National Center for Marine Algae and Microbiota (NCMA) curates, maintains, and distributes algae globally. With over 3,800 strains of microalgae and macroalgae, our collection is the most genetically diverse in the world — making it a treasure trove of genetic, chemical, and commercial opportunity. NCMA's services include algal cultures, preservation (cryo- as well as live cultures), professional training, harvested biomass, and DNA isolation.

The The Single Cell Genomics Center (SCGC) is the world's first facility that reads the genomic blueprints of the most fundamental units of microbial life — individual cells — without the need for cultivation. This powerful approach is used to analyze the ecosystem impacts, evolutionary histories, and biotechnological potential of uncultured microorganisms, which constitute over 99% of biological diversity on Earth.

Tandy Center for Ocean Forecasting (COF)

Ocean forecasting is a collaborative venture. The Tandy Center for Ocean Forecasting works with stakeholders to develop and deploy real-time ocean forecasting tools for industry, conservation, resource management, communities, and education. The forecasts use cutting edge machine learning algorithms and draw on big data sources ranging from satellites to measurements on the water.

Other Services

Bigelow Laboratory’s PFAS testing and expertise provides critical data on PFAS pollutant prevalence and how it behaves in and travels through our waters, ecosystems, and seafood.

Our state-of-the-art, state-certified PFAS testing facility increases the capacity for processing samples for public, private, and research groups — both in Maine and beyond.

The High Performance Compute Cluster at Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences is the same system used by the brilliant theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking.

Seawater Suite

The Seawater Suite provides a continuously flowing seawater system with both filtered and raw seawater for algal production and the capability to replicate ocean conditions in a controlled environment. The system can be used for experiments reflecting natural conditions or creating specific environmental conditions in a tightly controlled, measured way. Multiple-sized vessels provide the flexibility to tailor an experiment, as needed.

Bigelow offers fee-for-service nutrient analysis to both private and public entities from local, national and international researchers in marine chemistry, aquaculture and fisheries. Our experienced scientists and technicians provide the highest quality testing in a timely manner.