The Coastal Studies Institute (CSI) and ECU Integrated Coastal Programs (ECU ICP) are hosting an Open House from 12:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 17, 2025. The public is welcome and encouraged to attend this free event. Attendees will have the opportunity to tour the campus, grounds, and facilities; learn about current research and educational programs; take part in family-friendly activities; and interact with faculty and staff from ECU, CSI, and partner organizations.
The LEED Gold-certified ECU Outer Banks Campus is located on Roanoke Island at 850 NC Highway 345, approximately one mile from the intersection of Highway 64 and NC 345.
ECU’s Integrated Coastal Programs is a leader in coastal and marine research, education, and engagement. The program uses an interdisciplinary approach and scientific advancements to provide effective solutions to complex problems – helping coastal communities, ecosystems, and economies thrive. ECU ICP includes a transdisciplinary Department of Coastal Studies, a Ph.D. program in Integrated Coastal Sciences, and the Coastal Studies Institute.
The Coastal Studies Institute is a multi-institutional research partnership led by East Carolina University, in collaboration with NC State, UNC-Chapel Hill, UNC Wilmington, and Elizabeth City State University. CSI focuses on integrated coastal research and educational programming centered on the needs, concerns, and issues of the residents of eastern North Carolina.
ECU ICP and CSI research and education initiatives span a wide range of coastal topics—from nearshore estuaries to the offshore waters along the continental shelf.
Visitors to the Open House will learn about research initiatives first-hand from faculty and staff stationed throughout the facility, including:
- Coastal geoscientists researching the processes that drive coastal change, their impact on communities, and ways we can build resilience in the face of increasing coastal hazards.
- Ecologists studying estuarine systems and fisheries, their inputs, and how we can ensure healthy coastal ecosystems for the future.
- Oceanographers and coastal engineers exploring ways to harness renewable ocean energy—such as the Gulf Stream and wave power—through new technologies that expand North Carolina’s energy portfolio.
- Social scientists working with coastal residents, visitors, and social data to understand the impacts of coastal change on communities while developing new, sustainable economies.
- Maritime archaeologists discovering and researching shipwrecks using advanced technologies, while celebrating the maritime heritage of eastern North Carolina.
- Faculty and staff engaging the local community and inspiring the next generation of scientists and decision-makers through educational programming focused on science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM).
Join CSA for an afternoon of learning and fun at the ECU Outer Banks Campus from 12:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on May 17, 2025.
