Research Services
Research Services
Science empowers industry and blue economy
At CCMAR, we have produced technologies that are already being used in industry or are close to being transferred to industry. This reflects how our research fosters Science-2-Business interactions with high Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) leading to patents, spin-offs and collaborations with industry. We actively cultivate partnerships, provide scientific services and drive innovation for the growth of the blue economy.
Our services
We provide research and technology services based on our expertise in diverse scientific areas such as aquaculture, biotechnology, biomedicine, fisheries, biodiversity, climate change and marine conservation. These services are offered not only to CCMAR's scientific and academic community, but also to external entities, including business, industry and public organisations. Our comprehensive range of services supports researchers throughout the research pipeline, from the provision of marine organisms for study, to the conduct of experiments, laboratory analysis and data analysis. Explore our services page for more information on what we offer..
Key collaborations
CCMAR actively contributes to the development of industry by working directly with companies. By establishing strong collaborations with industry partners, affiliated laboratories and spin-offs, CCMAR expands its research network and benefits from diverse perspectives, knowledge and resources. Together, we take innovation and scientific discovery to new heights. Explore our partners page to learn more about our valued partnerships.
Projects with industrial partners
Our collaborations aim to translate cutting-edge research into real-world solutions that benefit society and the environment. By actively engaging in research projects with industry partners, we address emerging needs directly. This direct use of research results ensures immediate impact in industry and society.
Here are a few examples of these projects:
Strategic collaborations
For scientific innovation in algae
GreenCoLab is a platform for collaboration between research and industry, of which we are a partner. Its aim is to develop algae-based production for cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and animal feed, diversifying the industry and contributing to soil recovery, carbon sequestration and wastewater treatment. CCMAR, for its part, is advancing research into algae, exploring bioactive compounds and developing rapid methods for isolating microalgae with biotechnological potential.
Optimising marine products
We are proud to be one of the partner members of S2AQUAcoLAB, which carries out research into optimising production, identifying health and well-being markers, adapting to climate change and developing new products to diversify the market.
Spin-offs: research into industry
CCMAR fulfils its commitment to take innovative science and technology beyond academia by facilitating the creation of spin-off ventures, independent companies that emerge from our research activities. By maintaining close partnerships with these companies, CCMAR is able to support the the growth of the blue economy and societal well-being. Examples of these spin-offs include:
Gopsis, Lda
Advancing macroalgae cultivation
Our most recent spin-off company, Gopsis, Lda, grew from our efforts in the advancement of macroalgae cultivation in marine and freshwater. The company now specialises in consultancy and research services for aquaculture, biotechnology and macroalgae commercialisation, with a focus on the development of innovative cultivation systems and provide various applications (such as biofiltration, food production and cosmetics). Recently, Gopsis, Lda is working with a fish aquaculture company in Vietnam to achieve the first large-scale marine cultivation of the red algae Asparagopsis spp. You can read more about this work HERE.
Innovating health diagnostics
Founded in 2009, GenoGla Diagnostics has signed a research contract with CCMAR to work closely with the Functional Biochemistry and Proteomics research team. Together with our researchers, the company is exploring new products, methods and tools for the prevention and diagnosis of chronic inflammatory diseases associated with ageing, using expertise in biomedicine and biotechnology. One of its breakthroughs was the development of a specific tool to assess cardiovascular risk by quantifying a specific protein, Gla Rich Protein. The translation of this ELISA assay into clinical trials demonstrated a fundamental role for Gla Rich Protein in the prevention of vascular calcification and helped validate the protein as a biomarker of cardiovascular risk.
Progressing aquaculture feeds
SPAROS is a CCMAR spin-off company, which has grown out of CCMAR's expertise in larval production for aquaculture feeding practices. Over the years, CCMAR and SPAROS have worked closely together. The company now develops cutting-edge nutritional solutions for the aquaculture market, specialising in fish and shrimp feeding practices. Their industrial research services and commercial products, such as HATCHERY FEEDS and ZEBRAFeed, support sustainable aquaculture practices and contribute to the growth of the aquaculture industry worldwide.