The charitable aims of the Marine Biological Association (MBA) are: 'to promote scientific research into all aspects of life in the sea, including the environment on which it depends, and to disseminate to the public the knowledge gained.' The MBA was founded in 1884 and in 1888 opened the Plymouth Laboratory at Citadel Hill.
The current research programme reflects the wide-ranging commitment of the Association to the development of marine biology. This covers areas as diverse as cell and developmental biology, neurobiology, physiology and functional biology, reproductive biology, and ocean productivity and phytoplankton dynamics.
As one of the world's longest established marine learned societies, the MBA plays a crucial role in providing a clear independent voice to government, marine stakeholders and the wider public. Becoming a member of the MBA allows you to be part of a marine biological community dedicated to the aims of the Association and gives you access to a wide range of benefits.
Knowledge Exchange is a key part of the MBA's mission. The MBA has well over a century of experience in this area and therefore feels well-placed to address the opportunities and challenges for our seas and oceans in the 21st century. We are passionate in our quest to better understand the marine environment for the benefit of all society as well as the marine biological community.