Oceans Research

NSCC’s Applied Oceans Research Group (AORG) focuses on investigating the latest innovations in ocean survey instruments, including subsea camera systems, multi-beam echo sounders and autonomous platforms, such as autonomous surface and autonomous underwater vehicles.

Thanks to a $1 million investment from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), Dr. Craig Brown and his team are building greater knowledge about our ocean floor with integrated ocean mapping technologies. This five-year research program is working with ocean sector partners to develop innovative seafloor mapping methods and techniques to support a variety of offshore activities, initially focusing on fisheries applications. Sonar technologies that map the seafloor are a main area of research. Using data obtained from a combination of techniques, including high-resolution photos and videos of the seafloor, the goal is to create detailed maps which can ultimately lead to more sustainable environmental management and assessment processes.

Industry, community and academic Partners

• Clearwater Seafoods Inc.
• Blue C Designs Inc.
• QPS
• Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO)
• NSERC
• Canadian Hydrographic Service (CHS)
• Dingbot
• Cape Breton Lobster Association
• Canadian Ocean Mapping Research & Education Network (COMREN)
• Maritime Way Scientific
• R2 Sonic
• Full Bay Scallop Association
• Dalhousie University
• Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN)
• University of New Brunswick (UNB)