URI, National Centre for Marine Research in Greece formalize partnership to develop joint marine research Narragansett, RI — May 18, 2001 — University of Rhode Island President Robert L. Carothers signed a memorandum of understanding this week with the National Centre for Marine Research (NCMR) in Greece to collaborate on marine research and higher education programs in Rhode Island and Greece. Representing NCMR at the signing was George Th. Chronis, vice president and director of its Institute of Oceanography. One planned area of cooperation includes the development of an International Center for Marine and Environmental Studies on the Isle of Rhodes. Other mutual activities may include research and educational programs, staff development projects, joint participation in seminars and academic meetings, exchange of academic materials, exchange visits of scientists, use of one another’s facilities, and exchange of undergraduate and graduate students. The initial agreement will remain in force for five years. “I hope to have fruitful collaborations between URI and the National Centre for Marine Research,” said Chronis. “It is also my dream to see a high level university established in Greece with URI participation.” “The University is excited to have this opportunity to begin a mutually beneficial partnership between our scientists and those at the National Centre for Marine Research,” said Carothers. “Together we hope to make significant gains in research and create a learning environment for students and faculty that will foster scientific, academic, and cultural understanding.” Headquartered in Athens, the National Centre for Marine Research is a governmental research institution belonging to the General Secretariat of Research and Technology. It was founded to promote basic research in all fields of the aquatic environment and provides comprehensive and technical support to the public on all aspects of the marine and freshwater environments. The Centre is headed by Dimitrios Papanikolaou, professor of geology at the University of Athens, and operates with a combined staff of 130. The Centre comprises approximately 60 scientists and 40 technicians, all experienced in research in the various aquatic environments. For Information: Lisa Cugini, (401) 874-6642, lcugini@gso.uri.edu