Research Services – Start Here
The Interuniversity Institute for Marine Sciences in Eilat (IUI) has been operating for over 50 years as Israel’s leading marine research center. It offers researchers, students, tech companies, and R&D institutions direct, efficient, and professional access to conduct research in the Red Sea.
Why conduct your research here
A unique location – in the heart of a thriving ecosystem
The Institute is located on the shoreline of the Gulf of Eilat, within a pristine marine nature reserve and adjacent to one of the most developed coral reef systems in the world. The water is clear year-round, with temperatures ranging from 21–29°C. The visibility is excellent, and the sea conditions are remarkably stable – with virtually no stormy days, heavy winds, or rainfall.
The unique geography of the gulf allows for rapid access to deep-sea environments – with a 700-meter depth just 3 km offshore – creating safe, predictable conditions for diving, surveying, and equipment installation.
Advanced marine research infrastructure
IUI hosts a comprehensive array of facilities: a multi-purpose research vessel, fast sampling boats, full suites of physical and chemical oceanographic instruments, and a professional scientific diving center. The Institute provides natural seawater systems for experiments, along with labs for biology, chemistry, physics, ecology, and genetics, as well as indoor and outdoor experimental areas.
Efficient, cost-effective research logistics
IUI offers one of the fastest and most accessible paths to conduct marine research. Travel times to field sites are extremely short, allowing quick turnaround from sampling to lab analysis. With minimal need for large ships or complex logistics, small research teams can operate efficiently and affordably. The sea’s stable conditions make planning reliable and reduce cancellations.
Professional support and experienced staff
From the first inquiry, researchers are supported by dedicated, experienced professionals in the Research Services Unit and Marine Operations Unit. The entire IUI team – including logistics, IT, maintenance, and guest services – works together to make your research smooth and productive. The Institute operates as a true one-stop shop.
A vibrant scientific environment
Resident research groups from leading Israeli universities are based at IUI, offering potential collaborations and peer exchange. Visiting researchers benefit from access to high-quality datasets, including the National Monitoring Program (since 2003), coral monitoring stations, real-time data, and publicly available reports.
Innovation, partnerships, and global networks
IUI is part of the regional Seanovation marine innovation initiative and collaborates with government agencies (e.g., Israel Oceanographic and Limnological Research), BGU-Eilat campus, startups, and industrial partners. It is a member of EMBRC-Europe, connecting researchers to international infrastructure-sharing and funding programs.
Multidisciplinary by nature
Research at IUI spans marine biology, geochemistry, physics, engineering, marine biotechnology, sustainability, and more. The Institute fosters cross-disciplinary collaborations and supports pioneering, integrative projects.
Added value: The City of Eilat
Eilat offers excellent local amenities: international airport, border crossings to Jordan and Egypt, modern healthcare (including a hyperbaric chamber), and a vibrant hospitality sector – all making extended research stays comfortable and enjoyable.
How to get started
- Contact us via the Institute’s Secretariat or Research Services Unit.
- We will help assess your needs and coordinate initial planning.
- An online account will be created for you in our internal booking system.
- You’ll then be able to order services such as equipment, lab space, boats, accommodation, diving support, and more.
Please note: Some services may involve cost-sharing or usage fees.
Ready to dive into research?
Access our Booking System or reach out via our Contact Form.
We look forward to welcoming you to IUI!