Maine researchers and entrepreneurs are unlocking the potential of algae, seaweed, shellfish, and marine microbes to develop new foods, medicines, materials, and climate-friendly products.
These blue biotechnology innovations not only strengthen the state’s economy but also contribute to global efforts to increase health, sustainability, and resilience.
As an ocean sciences leader, Bigelow Laboratory is helping Maine bring to bear competitive advantages to position the state at the forefront of blue biotech innovation in New England.
Follow along with our work in this transformative area. We will regularly share events, reports, convenings, and other leadership opportunities where our researchers and colleagues are working to grow this lucrative industry in our state. Together, these efforts highlight how blue biotechnology can diversify Maine’s economy, create high-quality jobs, and inspire the next generation of ocean innovators while building off the state’s treasured maritime history.
This summer, Vice President for Research and Senior Research Scientist Beth Orcutt (pictured, top, second from right) and Senior Research Scientist Nichole Price (pictured bottom, second left) lent their voices to A Competitiveness Conversation: Growing New England’s Next Generation Innovation Economy at Tufts University. The event was convened by the Council on Competitiveness, and a full report was published over the summer. Photos by Jake Belcher for Tufts University.
Last week, Beth Orcutt and Nichole Price also represented Bigelow Laboratory at Climate Week NYC 2025. It is a global climate event that brings together a crucial mix of leaders from the world of business, tech, politics, academia, and civil society that have the means, the scale. and the ideas to take bold action.
The Maine Algal Research Infrastructure and Accelerator (MARIA) released its fall 2025 e-newsletter on October 1. Powered by Bigelow Laboratory, MARIA strives to build a world-class ecosystem for collaborative algae innovation. The newsletter included an article on workforce development efforts, upcoming events, and a member spotlight on MDI Biolab. To sign up, click here.
On October 3, Beth Orcutt, Chief of Staff Valerie Young, and Senior Research Scientist Rachel Sipler participated in the University of Maine’s Blue Economy Innovation Summit. The event connected businesses, universities, non-profits, and investors from across Maine’s blue economy for a dynamic gathering focused on collaboration and innovation.
