MLML Open House 2026

Moss Landing Marine Laboratories (MLML) is more than a marine science graduate program — it is a community of passionate scientists, explorers, and future leaders dedicated to understanding and protecting our ocean. Administered by San Jose State University, MLML is dedicated to the pursuit of excellence and advancement in both research and education. Since 1966, MLML has been at the forefront of diverse and multidisciplinary ocean and estuarine research including marine ecology, marine biology, chemical and physical oceanography, and marine geology.

Located at the heart of the Monterey Bay where the Monterey Submarine Canyon – the largest undersea canyon on the West Coast – meets the Elkhorn Slough, MLML provides an excellent homebase for faculty, students, and researchers to investigate the unique marine and coastal systems of Monterey Bay and beyond. MLML produces impactful leaders in marine research, education, and environmental stewardship poised to make meaningful contributions that address the pressing marine conservation issues of our time. But, behind every research breakthrough is a student working long hours, balancing the demands of research, coursework, and often, financial uncertainty.

OUR GOAL

In our quest to empower our next generation of marine science leaders, we are asking for support to fund student scholarships and activities that will enable them to execute their research and thrive here at MLML. Conducting scientific research, whether aboard a research vessel, underwater on a SCUBA diving expedition, or within the confines of a laboratory, demands significant financial resources. Many MLML students face the difficult reality of surviving on nonexistent or limited stipends while trying to complete ambitious, meaningful research. This financial strain limits the ability of MLML students to meet and exceed their academic and professional goals. Your support can change that.

A scholarship can be the catalyst for a scientific breakthrough or allow a budding scientist to complete the degree that will launch them into a career of service for our oceans. When you invest in MLML students, you are not simply funding a degree – you are empowering the next generation of marine scientists who will safeguard important marine ecosystems, inform environmental policy, educate our communities, and respond to the mounting challenges facing our oceans and coasts.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

This crowdfunding campaign is led by MLML students in conjunction with this year’s annual Open House. For decades, the lab has invited all members of the public once a year to meet with our faculty and students, enjoy family-friendly scientific activities, and learn about our exciting active research projects. The event is free and open to all because we believe science should be accessible to everyone.

Funds raised via this campaign and our Silent Auction go directly towards student scholarships and support. Every donation, no matter now small, directly benefits the students who make MLML an engine of research and innovation. You can help the Little Marine Lab that Could by donating directly to this campaign, bidding on Silent Auction items, spreading the word to your family/friends/social media accounts, and visiting the lab during this year’s Open House on April 25th, 2026 from 9am to 5pm! Together, we can ensure that financial barriers do not stand in the way of discovery, innovation, and ocean stewardship. Join us in shaping the future of our oceans – one student, one breakthrough, and one act of generosity at a time. Learn more at https://mlml.sjsu.edu/open-house-2026/.