Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquatic Science (CEFAS)

About

As the UK Government’s marine and freshwater science experts Cefas leads in a range of science and technology keeping our seas, oceans and rivers healthy and productive and our seafood safe and sustainable. Working in partnership with colleagues across UK government and internationally Cefas generate data and advice to help tackle the serious global problems of climate change, marine litter, over-fishing and pollution.

Founded in 1902 Cefas has evolved from a small Laboratories concerned with fisheries research to the international organisation of today providing multi-disciplinary expertise across a full-spectrum of marine and freshwater science to a range of domestic, international, industry and academic customers.

Role In the National Laboratories Alliance

Our role in the NLA is in the provision of unique scientific capability to support government priorities concerning the sustainable use and future health in marine and other aquatic environments globally. As such we provide highly complementary skills alongside those more concerned with terrestrial and human health and bring significant experience of working in the international field on such issues as well as housing a number of International Centres of Excellence with FAO and OIE designations. Cefas already have close relationships across the NLA partner group working extensively with APHA on animal health issues and providing the use of our world class, ocean going research vessel, the Cefas Endeavour, to support government partner aims including DSTL and others. Cefas provides essential expertise to underpin national resilience in emergencies and its aims to understand and value our seas to secure a healthy and prosperous future is in line with the vision of the National Laboratories Alliance.