SMS is situated in a modern, state-of-the-art facility on the shore of Laucala Bay in Suva, not far from the main Laucala Campus.Its buildings were purpose-built through a grant from Japan, and include officies, science and computer laboratories, lecture theater, aquaria, a comprehensive library (PIMRIS), a modern fish processing laboratory, collection, SCUBA and boat service facilities.
SMS is perfect for coral reef studies.It lies only 2-3km from Suva barrier reef, and we also operate a field research station at Dravuni in the pristine Astrolabe lagoon 40km south. A limited population and the lack of tourism development have helped to preserve these relatively pristine reefs.
An excellent collection of marine related books and journals is housed adjacent to a reading and research area with desk and seating capacity for 56 students. On-line searching of world literature is also available.
Laboratories
There are 26 Office/Laboratory stations and provision is made for a number of visiting researchers and fellows of SMS.
There are two 50 seat laboratories with a common technical preparation area. Both labs are fully serviced and may be used for teaching a wide range of a laboratory disciplines. These labs may be divided into 4 smaller lab units.
There are several research laboratories devoted to staff and postgraduate student research projects.
Seawater Tank Research Area
A range of plastic tanks are continuously fed from elevated storage tanks. A choice of lagoonal or oceanic water can be supplied to the tanks. A central preparation and study centre may be used for a wide range of laboratory experimental and developmental projects.
Post Harvest Fisheries Laboratory
A modern demonstration, research and teaching facility such as this is a central facility in a rapidly developing cooperation between IAS, SPAS, MSP, the South Pacific Commisssion and Government departments in food technology and Post Harvest fisheries research and development.
Marine Geology Preparation Area
Heavy duty rock sample and mineral crushing and cutting equipment and facilities for sediment separation and analysis is housed in this area.
Stores Area
Modern safe and secure areas will contain chemical and equipment storage. A separate field equipment store will provide ample space for fishing gear, field equipment and other gear.
Engineering Workshop And Garage
Work area and sheltered area for boats and vehicles, electronics and mechanical workshops.
Dive Shop
A fully equipped and self-contained dive shop is available with lockers, showers and change-rooms. Click here for dive equipment hire charge.
Marine Operations Area
Situated prominently on an elevated point on the wharf, with a commanding view of the greater part of Laucala Bay this observation post enables staff to closely monitor many of the field excursions and activities.
Vessels
There is continual availability of small and medium boats with capacities of 6, 8, 16, and 20 persons for a wide range of marine activities. All are equipped with navigational and safety equipment and operated by trained personnel.Vessels are also available for hire. Click here for hire charges
