Research Program
MMRU is an integrated unit within the Fisheries Center (Faculty of Graduate Studies) that works with other departments and institutions, combining specialties in a coordinated effort to provide independent research and advice on matters related to marine mammals.

Graduate students are enrolled through the Department of Zoology or Resource Management and Environmental Studies.

MMRU focuses on five areas:

· population dynamics
· energetics and physiology
· dietary analyses
· behaviour and ecology
· simulation modeling
 Some specific questions being explored are:
  • what are the abundance and population trends of marine mammals?
  • what criteria can be used to determine population health?
  • how much prey is consumed?
  • what is the resource base and how is it affected by marine mammals?
  • where do they occur and what determines their distribution and habitat needs?

FUNDING
Current research funding exceeds $1 million per year, and is provided by fishing industry donors, coastal communities, government sources, and private foundations in Canada and the United States.