FIU Unveils New Coastal Science Labs with Federal Funding

The labs will focus on restoration and environmental monitoring in South Florida's ecosystems.

Mar. 19, 2026 at 8:18am

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Florida International University has opened two new research laboratories focused on coastal restoration and environmental monitoring, funded by $11.5 million in federal grants. The Marine Robotics and Autonomous Systems Lab and the Coastal Conservation and Restoration Laboratory are part of the university's efforts to expand research on the Everglades, Biscayne Bay, and other South Florida coastal ecosystems.

Why it matters

The new labs will modernize research capabilities, expand remote sensing and GIS technology, and create a central data clearinghouse to help scientists and communities better understand and protect the region's vulnerable coastal environments.

The details

The federal funding includes $9.5 million for robotics and autonomous systems, nearly $1 million for Biscayne Bay restoration and education, and over $1 million for Florida Everglades research. The labs are part of the Institute of Environment's mission to study and preserve South Florida's coastal ecosystems.

  • The labs were unveiled last week at a grand opening ceremony.
  • The federal funding was secured by U.S. Rep. Frederica Wilson.

The players

Florida International University

A public research university located in Miami, Florida.

Institute of Environment

A research institute at FIU focused on studying and protecting South Florida's coastal ecosystems.

U.S. Rep. Frederica Wilson

A U.S. Representative who led the federal efforts to secure funding for the new labs.

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What they’re saying

“This is an investment in our future. This is an investment in our children. This is an investment in our nation. This is an investment in the world.”

— Frederica Wilson, U.S. Representative

“Our commitment to environmental resilience is about protecting our natural resources and also about securing our future prosperity. We are building a more resilient, more sustainable and more prosperous Florida for generations to come.”

— Jeanette Nuñez, FIU President

What’s next

The new labs are expected to begin operations and research projects in the coming months, contributing to ongoing efforts to study and protect South Florida's coastal ecosystems.

The takeaway

The federal investment in FIU's new coastal science labs demonstrates a commitment to advancing research and technology that can help communities better understand and respond to the challenges facing vulnerable coastal environments in Florida and beyond.