Research Programs

UMaine ecologist and MAFES faculty member Brian McGill named 2026 AAAS Fellow

University of Maine ecology professor Brian McGill has been named a 2026 American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Fellow, one of the highest honors in the scientific community. AAAS Fellows are a group of scientists, engineers and innovators recognized for their achievements across disciplines, from research, teaching and technology, to administration in academia, […]

Read more

‘The Maine Question’ explores the reality of ‘forever chemicals’

A group of chemicals known as PFAS have become a growing concern for human health, agriculture and the environment. Because they resist breaking down, these “forever chemicals” can accumulate in soil, water and food systems and expose people to a range of adverse health conditions. From nonstick cookware and disposable tableware to everyday items like […]

Read more

UMaine students ride new vessel

New vessel expands ocean exploration, marine research for UMaine students

A new teaching and research vessel at the University of Maine’s Darling Marine Center is expanding student access to the largest ecosystem on Earth: the open ocean. The new 45-foot vessel is the biggest in the center’s fleet. Previously used as a commercial tuna fishing platform, the boat will support student training, faculty research and […]

Read more

Russet potato

Meet the Maine-made inventions that help make life the way it should be

From potato farms to global shipping lanes, ideas from Maine’s R&D department are making an impact  Mainers are known for their Yankee ingenuity, and researchers at the University of Maine are no exception. Our knack for making do and inventing better ways of doing things embodies the resourceful culture of the Pine Tree State.  For […]

Read more

From Maine to Mexico: Working waterfronts with less variety carry more risk

More than 70% of Maine’s fishing value comes from American lobster. The fishery has delivered prosperity for decades, but it also leaves coastal communities exposed if lobster populations falter, ocean conditions shift or markets change. That pattern is not unique to Maine. For more than 20 years, University of Maine professor of marine sciences Heather […]

Read more

MAFES & UMaine make headlines worldwide in 2025

Whether it’s conducting cutting-edge research, commenting on current events or receiving that diploma, University of Maine faculty, students and leaders made headlines locally, nationally and internationally in 2025. From research labs and classrooms to commencement stages and championship arenas, UMaine was featured in more than 18,000 stories published from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2025. […]

Read more