Cutting-edge engineering and research

The Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) uses cutting-edge engineering technology to support biological, chemical, and physical science research in deep-water ocean environments. In support of MBARI's evolving marine science and engineering programs, Flad designed the new Instrumentation Integration and Testing Facility, a state-of-the-art research and development laboratory.

The 30,000-square-foot building expands MBARI's capacity for developing cutting-edge technology to support biological, chemical, and physical science research in ocean environments. Spaces include flexible research and engineering laboratories, instrument development and preparation, and research platform engineering and assembly – all serving the core function of MBARI.

The conference rooms and the large, multi-media rooms offer waterfront views, with the building located across the street from the research vessel docks. The facility can accommodate sea level rise from the ocean side and FEMA flood zones on the landward side.

The new facility is located on the MBARI campus, down the street from the Expedition Staging Building, which opened in 2022 and was also designed by Flad.