Located on Roanoke Island, the institute's research focuses on: estuarine ecology and human health; coastal engineering and ocean energy; public policy and coastal sustainability; and maritime heritage.
"It is the mission of the UNC Coastal Studies Institute to undertake research, offer educational opportunities, provide community outreach programs, and enhance communication among those concerned with the unique history, culture and environment of the maritime counties of North Carolina."
The advent of Web 2.0 applications, which enable information sharing and virtual networking, could revolutionize science. But are microbiologists taking advantage?