Research Focus
As our name implies, our research focus is on estuarine and coastal sciences and is inclusive of biological, geological, chemical, physical, and hydrological processes, and the influences, interactions, and synergies among these. The overarching themes are coastal systems, global change, and food webs.
Research Sites
North Inlet Estuary—our primary research site—is an environmentally unique location that offers incredible research opportunities. Because of its essentially pristine habitat and water qualities, it serves as a sentinel site for climate change and provides an increasingly rare opportunity for scientists to assess impacts associated with human activities. Our studies of North Inlet span the molecular to landscape level of organization and temporal scales from short term (hours) to long term (decades). Other systems, local and throughout the world are studied by Institute researchers and Associates. These include a variety of coastal, estuarine, and tidal freshwater systems in SC, in the US, and internationally.
See Primary & Other Research Sites for more information. To learn even more and to see site maps and images, visit North Inlet - Winyah Bay NERR.
Education
The Baruch Institute does not award academic degrees; however, we recognize that research must be a partner of education. We welcome academic classes for field experiences and provide undergraduate and graduate students with opportunities to pursue their research interests. Educational programs are offered for university students, secondary school students, personnel from agencies and organizations engaged in resource management. nature and environmental groups, and the general public.
See Plan a Visit for more information about educational visits and programs.
Vernberg Bicentennial Fellowships
We offer the Vernberg Bicentennial Fellowships to University of South Carolina graduate students conducting marine research with the Baruch Institute. Students in biology, chemistry, environmental health, geology, geography, and marine science are eligible to apply.
The application period and award are once per year in the spring. For further information please contact the Baruch Institute at 803-777-5288 or email baruchinfo@sc.edu.