Revitalize Ocean Research Off the Jersey Shore with Rutgers University–Camden and Marine Technology

Why the Jersey Shore Needs a New Ocean Research Hub

The Atlantic coast of New Jersey faces a growing set of environmental and economic challenges. Storm surge, coastal erosion, and shifting fish populations are all influenced by subtle changes in ocean currents and water quality. For researchers, students, and industry stakeholders, reliable, real‑time data are essential for developing solutions that protect communities and sustain local economies.

In December 2025, Rutgers University announced a partnership that will bring cutting‑edge marine technology to the Long‑Term Ecosystem Observatory (LEO) off the Jersey Shore. The collaboration involves Rutgers University, Stockton University, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, and Ocean Power Technologies Inc. The goal is to deploy a PowerBuoy® system that will provide continuous, renewable power and data collection for ocean research.

What the PowerBuoy® Brings to the LEO Site

The PowerBuoy® is a compact, solar‑ and wind‑powered platform that sits just above the waves. It hosts a suite of sensors, a weather station, and high‑speed data links that transmit information back to shore in real time. This capability transforms the LEO site from a static, cabled observatory into a dynamic, autonomous research hub.

Renewable Power for Continuous Monitoring

Traditional ocean buoys rely on batteries or diesel generators, limiting their deployment time and increasing maintenance costs. The PowerBuoy® eliminates these constraints by harvesting energy from the sun and wind. This renewable approach ensures that data streams remain uninterrupted, even during extended storm events.

Real‑Time Data for Rapid Response

Scientists can now receive live updates on temperature, salinity, wave height, and other key parameters. This immediacy allows researchers to detect anomalies quickly, adjust sampling strategies, and share findings with stakeholders in a timely manner.

Integration with Existing Research Infrastructure

By anchoring the buoy at the LEO site, Rutgers and Stockton can combine the PowerBuoy®’s data with long‑term observations from the Mullica River–Great Bay estuary. The result is a comprehensive picture of coastal dynamics that spans from the estuary to the open ocean.

How Rutgers University–Camden and Stockton University Benefit Students

Both universities have strong marine science programs, and the new partnership offers hands‑on experience for students at all levels.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

Students can participate in hydrographic surveys, deploy instruments on the PowerBuoy®, and analyze real‑time data sets. These activities translate directly into workforce‑ready skills that are in demand by marine technology companies, environmental agencies, and coastal management firms.

Research Projects and Thesis Work

Graduate students can use the PowerBuoy® platform as a living laboratory for theses on topics such as sediment transport, larval dispersal, or the impact of climate change on coastal ecosystems. The availability of continuous data reduces the need for costly field campaigns.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

The partnership encourages collaboration across departments—engineering, biology, environmental science, and business. Students can work with faculty from the School of Environment and Biological Sciences, the School of Engineering, and the Business School’s Innovation, Design and Entrepreneurship Academy.

Economic and Innovation Impacts for New Jersey

Beyond academic benefits, the project is poised to stimulate the state’s blue economy.

Attracting Investment in Marine Technology

By showcasing a state‑of‑the‑art research platform, New Jersey positions itself as a hub for marine technology startups. The LEO site can serve as a testbed for new sensors, autonomous vehicles, and data analytics tools.

Workforce Development

The partnership includes training programs that prepare students for careers in oceanography, coastal engineering, and marine data science. These programs align with the state’s economic development goals and help fill skill gaps in the local job market.

Public Engagement and Education

Community outreach initiatives will use the PowerBuoy® data to educate the public about coastal resilience. Schools, local governments, and NGOs can access the data to inform policy decisions and environmental stewardship.

Getting Involved: How You Can Support or Join the Initiative

Whether you are a student, a researcher, an industry professional, or a community member, there are several ways to engage with this transformative project.

• Apply to Rutgers University–Camden’s marine science programs and become part of the next generation of ocean researchers.
• Schedule a campus visit to the Rutgers Marine Field Station in Tuckerton and see the PowerBuoy® in action.
• Explore Shorelight Pathways to learn how the partnership supports career pathways in marine technology.
• Join the Rutgers–Stockton research community by attending seminars, workshops, and collaborative projects.
• Learn more about marine technology innovations through the university’s online resources and industry partnerships.

Conclusion: A New Era for Coastal Science and Innovation

The collaboration between Rutgers University, Stockton University, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, and Ocean Power Technologies Inc. marks a significant step forward for ocean research off the Jersey Shore. By deploying the PowerBuoy® at the LEO site, the partnership delivers renewable power, real‑time data, and a platform for interdisciplinary research and workforce development. The initiative not only strengthens scientific understanding of coastal dynamics but also positions New Jersey as a leader in sustainable marine innovation.

Prospective students and professionals interested in marine technology should consider Rutgers University–Camden and Stockton University as gateways to cutting‑edge research and career opportunities. The partnership’s impact will ripple through academia, industry, and the local community, ensuring that the Jersey Shore remains a vibrant, resilient, and economically thriving region.

For more information about the program, visit the Rutgers University–Camden website, explore Shorelight Pathways, or contact the Rutgers Marine Field Station directly. Your involvement can help shape the future of ocean research and coastal resilience.