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College of Natural Sciences, Forestry, and Agriculture–Research & Development


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R&D for Maine

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The College of Natural Sciences, Forestry, and Agriculture strives to meet Maine’s needs for new knowledge in a rapidly changing world and to translate discoveries into new applications for agriculture, aquaculture, biological and biomedical sciences, nursing, food product development, healthy diets, forestry, marine-based industries, earth and environmental sciences, resource economics and policy, fisheries and wildlife conservation, recreation and tourism programs, and more.

By the Numbers

  • More than 200 current research projects.
  • Total of $95.9 million in funding raised from external sources to support R&D over the last 5 years–a record $24.9 million in the 2010 fiscal year.
  • An average of 350 research publications and 550 public presentations annually.
  • Directly collaborated on R&D with 50 businesses and other organizations last year.
  • Six off-campus research centers along with our on-campus laboratories place research programs in all corners of the state.
Research that fuels business innovation and economic growth
College scientists are developing new products and production systems—new seafood products, new wood composites and bioproducts, new crop varieties, aquaculture systems, advanced forest practices, and more—in support of new and more competitive Maine businesses. Read more.
Exploring the potential of cellulose for application in green materials. Read more. The Knowledge Transfer Alliance–assisting businesses and communities experiencing economic distress. Read more.
Research that informs decisions on today’s issues
College scientists provide research-based information that enables state leaders to make wise policy choices on pressing issues for Maine. Read more.
Studying the effects of dam removals on fishes in the Penobscot River watershed. Read more. The Bear Brook Watershed in Maine – An ecological observatory in a climate of change. Read more.
Research engine for Maine state government
Maine state agencies and the legislature rely on College faculty to address priority research needs. Read more.
Undertaking an intensive analysis of the dairy industry to help state government set levels of support for milk producers. Read more. Working with state and local organizations to help coastal merchants and communities strengthen marketing efforts aimed at the growing number of cruise ship tourists visiting Maine. Read more.
Research to ensure a sustainable future
College research on climate change, lake and river health, wetlands, endangered species, fisheries, sustainable forestry, coastal issues, bioenergy, and urban growth promotes a productive economy while protecting Maine’s signature natural environment. Read more.
Protecting Maine’s vernal pools. Read more. Improving our understanding the human dynamics of Maine’s fisheries systems. Read more.
Research to improve health and quality of life
Research in nutrition and obesity, food safety, biomedical sciences, nursing, and public recreation provides new knowledge to improve the lives and lifestyles of Maine citizens. Read more.
Developing an intervention for college students that promotes healthful eating, exercise, and stress management. Read more. Studying sustainable human-forest interactions in Maine. Read more.
Educating the next generation: strengthening education programs with research experience
A vibrant research institution provides a rich learning environment for university students and prepares them for leadership roles in the high tech workforce of tomorrow. Read more.
Using zebrafish as an animal model to investigate the mechanisms underlying amelioration of muscle damage. Read more. Studying the ecology of the Canada lynx in Maine’s northern forests. Read more.

Image Description: Wood utilization

Image Description: Wallace Brothers Woodcrafters

Image Description: Steve Coghlan

Image Description: Bear Brook Mountain

Image Description: dairy cows

Image Description: cruise ship

Image Description: vernal poos

Image Description: harbor

Image Description: Nutrition graduate students

Image Description: Jessica Leahy

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Image Description: David Mallett


Contact Information

College of Natural Sciences, Forestry, and Agriculture--Research & Development
5782 Winslow Hall, Room 101
Orono, Maine 04469-5782
Phone: 207-581-3228 | Fax: 207-581-3207E-mail: fred.servello@maine.edu
The University of Maine
Orono, Maine 04469
207.581.1110
A Member of the University of Maine System