Gulf Coast Research Laboratory Gets New Science Vessel

The R/V Jim Franks is the newest addition to the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory. (Credit: University of Southern Mississippi)

The University of Southern Mississippi’s Gulf Coast Research Laboratory is getting a new research vessel, according to a release. The new boat will advance the scientific goals of the lab while also commemorating the achievements of a prominent researcher who works there.

The new vessel will be named the R/V Jim Franks, after James Franks, a senior research scientist at the lab who discovered the importance of sargassum to marine life during his career. Franks also studied through both Hurricanes Camille and Katrina.

The vessel is equipped for both day cruises and overnight trips for projects such as water testing, trawling, long-lining, trips to the barrier islands, surveying and fishing. Researchers will also have access to both an interior and exterior wet lab and a dry lab on board. The new craft is replacing the R/V Tom McIlwain, which is being retired later this year.

Top image: The R/V Jim Franks is the newest addition to the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory. (Credit: University of Southern Mississippi)