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BRISTOL, R.I. — From shellfish farming to marine biotechnology, �鶹ɫ��Ƭ (�鶹ɫ��Ƭ) is advancing Rhode Island’s blue economy through research, education, and partnerships with industry and coastal communities.

On Oct. 13, U.S. Rep. Gabe Amo (D-R.I.) visited �鶹ɫ��Ƭ’s Center for Economic and Environmental Development (CEED) as part of his second Blue Economy Tour, meeting with researchers and community partners to explore the university’s work in sustainable aquaculture and marine science.

“Rhode Island’s Blue Economy drives cutting-edge research, good-paying jobs, and innovation right here in the Ocean State,” said Congressman Amo. “At Roger Williams, researchers are strengthening shellfish production by advancing sustainable aquaculture, supporting local businesses and workers, and training the next generation of Blue Economy leaders.”

The visit began at the university’s dock and Ferrycliffe Shellfish Nursery and Farm, where Amo learned about shellfish cultivation and research supporting Rhode Island’s aquaculture industry. The tour continued inside the university’s Marine and Natural Sciences building, where he visited laboratories focused on marine biotechnology, aquatic research, shellfish disease diagnostics and sustainable aquaculture.

"CEED’s research, education, and collaborations support a thriving, sustainable aquaculture industry in Rhode Island,” said Koty Sharp, Director of the Center for Economic and Environmental Development. “With our industry partners, we’re advancing aquaculture technology and blue biotechnology, while preparing the next generation of professionals to address challenges facing our coastal ecosystems. We’re excited to share with Congressman Amo how university research can power our state’s growing blue economy.” 

Through CEED, �鶹ɫ��Ƭ connects scientific research with practical applications, supporting regional aquaculture businesses while giving students opportunities to develop skills through hands-on experience. The center’s research facilities, including its aquatic research Wet Lab, Aquatic Diagnostic Laboratory and shellfish hatchery, help advance disease monitoring, sustainable production and emerging marine technologies.

“�鶹ɫ��Ƭ is committed to connecting scientific discovery with hands-on learning and real-world impact,” said Paul Geisler, Dean of the School of Social and Natural Sciences. “Our Marine and Natural Sciences building and CEED facilities showcase how our faculty and students work across disciplines to advance marine research and strengthen Rhode Island’s blue economy. We appreciated the opportunity to welcome Congressman Amo and highlight the role universities can play in supporting coastal resilience, innovation, and workforce development.” 

“At �鶹ɫ��Ƭ, marine research, hands-on student learning, and partnerships with Rhode Island’s aquaculture industry come together to address real-world challenges facing our coastal communities,” said Margaret Everett, �鶹ɫ��Ƭ Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs. “Congressman Amo’s visit to our Marine and Natural Sciences building and CEED facilities offered an opportunity to showcase how university research and education support a sustainable blue economy and help prepare the next generation of marine science professionals.” 

The visit also brought together representatives from local blue tech start-up businesses, environmental organizations, governmental regulatory agencies, and local school districts to discuss the partnerships that support Rhode Island’s ocean-based industries. 

Amo launched his second Blue Economy Tour in September to spotlight the workers, researchers, small businesses, and organizations driving innovation and economic growth across Rhode Island’s ocean industries. Rhode Island’s blue economy supports approximately 36,000 jobs and contributes more than $5 billion to the state’s gross domestic product annually, according to Amo’s office.

“It’s important to continue investing in Rhode Island’s Blue Economy to accelerate this work and grow our blue biotech sector,” said Congressman Amo. “I’ll keep fighting to ensure our state can build on its strengths and create opportunity while protecting our greatest natural resource.”