Coastal Studies Institute to host open house on ECU Outer Banks Campus May 17

Published May 13, 2025 by
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WANCHESE, N.C. (5/12/2025) – The Coastal Studies Institute (CSI) and ECU Integrated Coastal Programs (ECU ICP) will host an open house from 12:30-4 p.m. on Saturday, May 17.

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.

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 firsthand 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 technology, engineering, art, math and science.

The LEED Gold-certified ECU Outer Banks Campus is located on Roanoke Island at 850 N.C. Highway 345, approximately one mile from the intersection of U.S. 64 and N.C. 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 doctoral 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 N.C. 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.

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