Fisheries and Aquaculture

Our vision is to deliver a sustainable future through world-class research and education in the capture and production of aquatic resources in marine ecosystems.

In our Centre for Fisheries and Aquaculture, led by Centre Head Professor Sean Tracey, we’re working to address the major questions of temperate marine and Antarctic science, particularly living marine resource research and climate studies. With collaborative partners across the globe, we deliver our research to government, industry, institutions and communities.

By bringing together our research and teaching on one geographic footprint, our knowledge is fostered and passed on to the upcoming generation of scientists, industry leaders and policy makers.

A world-class student experience

Our vision is to create a world-class student experience through relevant and distinctive education in a vibrant, experiential environment. Our focus is to develop graduates who are job-ready and have the best possible employment opportunities, through a thoughtful and integrated education system built around strong career pathways.

Research for Tasmania and beyond...

With our extensive network of partners around the world, we work on projects of global significance – from aquatic protein’s role in food security to the sustainable use of the world’s ocean resources.

Through our Sustainable Marine Research Collaboration Agreement (SMRCA) with the Tasmanian Government, our research informs the effective and sustainable management of Tasmania’s living marine resources for the benefit of the Tasmanian community.

Our SMRCA research advances the aims of the Tasmanian Government to:

  • cultivate prosperity in Tasmania’s primary industries
  • strike the right balance between social, economic and environmental values, and
  • help people value, use and enjoy Tasmania’s social, economic and environmental resources.

We draw on rich community resources to build knowledge that will balance economic, environmental and social benefits – and to enable us to be a catalyst for change, demonstrate leadership and serve the public good.

Our research also contributes to meeting the goals of the University and our State and Federal Governments, to encourage new industry, promote Tasmania’s advantages, and ensure Tasmania’s natural resources are managed in a sustainable way, now and into the future.

Reports and resources SMRCA Activity Report (PDF 4.1 MB)

Our research programs


Study with us

We strive to produce graduates who are not only job-ready but also equipped to achieve their career goals through integrated pathways directly to State and Federal Governments, environmental organisations, research agencies and industry. By uniting research and teaching, our students work and learn alongside our research experts who are passionate about cultivating the next generation of scientists, industry leaders, and policymakers.

Our research partners

The seafood industry depends on reliable and accurate information for its longevity and sustainability. Our researchers strive to ensure sustainable and ethical practices in all aspects of the seafood industry.

We have key partnerships and projects that foster the links between IMAS and industry. If you are a member of the seafood industry, contact us for more information on how you can benefit from our world class research capability.

Our seafood industry partnerships and projects include:

    Partnerships and collaborations

    An exciting future for IMAS Taroona

    The University of Tasmania is transforming the existing Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) site at Taroona into a world-class fisheries and aquaculture research and teaching precinct.

    In 2026, the unification of our research and teaching will be complete with a brand new dedicated $65 million facility at IMAS Taroona.

    our new facility