Center for Coastal Environmental Health and Biomolecular Research

The Center for Coastal Environmental Health and Biomolecular Research (CCEHBR) conducts research to answer questions about the health of resources, the ecological function of coastal ecosystems, and their influences on human health The Center’s scientific expertise and laboratory capabilities in environmental chemistry, physiology, toxicology, icrobiology, ecology and related sciences in Charleston, SC and Oxford, MD support NOAA’s mission to better understand the Earth’s environment and protect its resources. CCEHBR’s unique areas of expertise include: advanced analytical and biomolecular technology used in harmful algal bloom, coral disease, marine mammal, and fisheries-related investigations; nuclear magnetic resonance imagery to elucidate chemical contaminant and natural product structures; and estuarine mesocosm and coral culture and research facilities for single and multiple stressor challenge studies. The Center integrates its research skills with other elements of NCCOS and governmental and academic entities. Issues are defined with and results are communicated to stakeholders and coastal managers to help resolve complex coastal environmental problems.