Ocean First Institute

2. Ocean First Discovery Center Online Courses Ocean First Institute (OFI) scientists continue to partner with educational institutions and scientific organizations to conduct ongoing marine science research all over the world. This current and ongoing research informs OFI's educational outreach and inspires innovation and conservation in local communities. Our research is a centerpiece to our goal to bring the reef to the Rockies and inspire a new generation of environmental scientists and stewards.OFI focuses on educational outreach to primarily middle and high school students. We customize marine science education programs to individual schools and classrooms. We also offer after school and summer programming to supplement and enhance K12 science student learning. Our goal is to introduce the wonders of the ocean to students who would otherwise never have the chance to experience and learn about them through hands-on, high quality marine science education programs.

3. Shark Field CourseImpact of Environmental Stressors on Elasmobranch Health in Florida Waters. Ocean First Institute is conducting groundbreaking research on the health impacts of environmental stressors affecting sharks and small tooth sawsh in Florida waters. The research program encompasses two major initiatives: an investigation of the "spinning sh" phenomenon in the Florida Keys and a comprehensive study of pharmaceutical contamination in marine ecosystems.