WANCHESE — The public can tour the campus, learn about current research and education programs and interact with faculty and staff when East Carolina University’s Integrated Coastal Programs and the Coastal Studies Institute host a free open house Saturday, June 4.
The event is from 1 to 4 p.m. at the ECU Outer Banks campus on Roanoke Island, 850 N.C. 345, about a mile from the U.S. 64-N.C. 345 intersection.
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ECU’s Integrated Coastal Programs is an interdisciplinary approach using scientific advances to provide effective solutions to complex problems while helping coastal communities, ecosystems and economies thrive. It includes the Department of Coastal Studies, a doctoral program in integrated coastal sciences, and the Coastal Studies Institute.
The Coastal Studies Institute is a multi-institutional research partnership led by ECU in association with North Carolina State University, the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, UNC Wilmington and Elizabeth City State University. The institute focuses on integrated coastal research and education programming centered on responding to the needs, issues and topics of concern of the residents of eastern North Carolina.
Officials said the initiatives span a variety of coastal topics from nearshore coastal estuaries to the offshore waters along the continental shelf. Open house attendees can learn about research initiatives firsthand from faculty and staff who will be stationed throughout the facility.
Coastal geoscientists are researching the processes that drive coastal change, their effect on our communities and ways we can become more resilient in the face of increasing hazards that threaten the coast.
Ecologists are studying estuarine systems, their inputs and how to ensure healthy coastal ecosystems for the future.
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Oceanographers and coastal engineers are exploring ways to harness the power of the Gulf Stream, waves and other renewable ocean energy sources, using new technologies to broaden North Carolina’s energy portfolio.
Social scientists are working with coastal residents, visitors and relevant social statistics to better understand the impacts coastal change has on communities, while working to develop new and prosperous economies for the future.
Maritime archaeologists are researching and discovering new shipwrecks using advanced technologies while celebrating the maritime heritage of eastern North Carolina.
Faculty and staff are engaging the local community and the next generation of scientists and decision makers in education programming that fosters student interest in the fields of technology, engineering, art, math and science.
