# University of Washington Friday Harbor Laboratories

> marine biology field station of the University of Washington

**Wikidata**: [Q2696688](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q2696688)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Friday_Harbor_Laboratories)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/university-of-washington-friday-harbor-laboratories

## Summary
The University of Washington Friday Harbor Laboratories (FHL) is a marine biology field station and research institute affiliated with the University of Washington. Founded in 1904, it is located in Friday Harbor, Washington, and serves as a hub for marine research, education, and field studies.

## Key Facts
- **Founded in 1904**, making it one of the oldest marine biology research institutions in the United States.
- Located in **Friday Harbor, Washington (WA 98250)**, on the San Juan Islands.
- Operated by the **University of Washington College of the Environment** and affiliated with the **University of Washington Marine Biology program**.
- Primarily focuses on **marine biology, oceanology, and field research**.
- Home to the **University of Washington Center for Cell Dynamics**, a subsidiary dedicated to cell biology research.
- Has a **research institute classification**, with a strong emphasis on both academic and applied research.
- Current director is **Megan N. Dethier**, who assumed the role in May 2020.
- Features a **campus with laboratories, research facilities, and housing for researchers**.
- Official website: [https://fhl.uw.edu/](https://fhl.uw.edu/).
- Contact information: **Phone: +1-360-378-2165**, **Email: fhl@uw.edu**.

## FAQs
### Q: What kind of research does the University of Washington Friday Harbor Laboratories conduct?
A: The laboratories focus on marine biology, oceanology, and field research, with a particular emphasis on cell dynamics and marine ecosystems.

### Q: Who can use the facilities at Friday Harbor Laboratories?
A: The facilities are primarily used by researchers, students, and faculty affiliated with the University of Washington, as well as visiting scientists.

### Q: How can I visit or stay at Friday Harbor Laboratories?
A: The laboratories offer housing for researchers and visitors. For details on accommodations and visiting arrangements, contact the institution directly at [fhl@uw.edu](mailto:fhl@uw.edu).

### Q: What is the University of Washington Center for Cell Dynamics?
A: The Center for Cell Dynamics is a subsidiary of Friday Harbor Laboratories specializing in cell biology research, particularly in marine organisms.

### Q: Who was the first director of Friday Harbor Laboratories?
A: A. O. Dennis Willows served as the first director, taking office in 1972.

## Why It Matters
The University of Washington Friday Harbor Laboratories plays a crucial role in marine biology research, offering researchers access to the San Juan Islands' unique marine environment. Established in 1904, it has become a leading institution for studying marine ecosystems, cell dynamics, and oceanography. The laboratories provide essential fieldwork facilities, housing, and support for scientists, contributing to both academic research and applied marine science. By fostering collaboration between researchers and offering specialized research programs, FHL supports advancements in understanding marine life and its interactions with the environment.

## Notable For
- **Oldest marine biology research institution in the Pacific Northwest**, with a legacy of over a century in marine science.
- **Home to the University of Washington Center for Cell Dynamics**, a specialized research unit focusing on cell biology in marine organisms.
- **Strategic location on the San Juan Islands**, providing direct access to marine ecosystems for field research.
- **Affiliation with the University of Washington Marine Biology program**, ensuring strong academic and research ties.
- **Housing and research facilities for visiting scientists**, making it a key hub for collaborative marine research.

## Body
### History and Founding
The University of Washington Friday Harbor Laboratories was established in **1904** as part of the University of Washington's commitment to marine research. Initially known as the **Puget Sound Biological Station**, it later evolved into a dedicated field station for marine biology studies.

### Location and Facilities
Located in **Friday Harbor, Washington (WA 98250)**, the laboratories are situated on the **San Juan Islands**, providing researchers with direct access to marine environments. The campus includes **laboratories, research facilities, and housing for researchers**, making it an ideal location for fieldwork.

### Research Focus
The primary research areas include **marine biology, oceanology, and cell dynamics**. The **University of Washington Center for Cell Dynamics**, a subsidiary of FHL, specializes in studying cell biology in marine organisms, contributing to broader scientific understanding.

### Leadership and Affiliation
The laboratories are operated by the **University of Washington College of the Environment** and are affiliated with the **University of Washington Marine Biology program**. The current director, **Megan N. Dethier**, has led the institution since **May 2020**, succeeding **Billie J. Swalla**, who served from **2014 to 2019**.

### Contact and Accessibility
For inquiries or to arrange visits, researchers can contact the institution via **phone (+1-360-378-2165)** or **email (fhl@uw.edu)**. The official website ([https://fhl.uw.edu/](https://fhl.uw.edu/)) provides additional details on facilities, research opportunities, and visiting arrangements.

## References

1. [Source](https://fhl.uw.edu/about/)
2. [Source](http://celldynamics.org/celldynamics/index.html)
3. [Source](https://fhl.uw.edu/)
4. [Source](https://fhl.uw.edu/about/welcome-from-director/)
5. [Source](https://environment.uw.edu/news/2020/04/megan-dethier-named-director-of-friday-harbor-labratories/)
6. [Source](https://www.sanjuanjournal.com/life/friday-harbor-labs-director-steps-down/)
7. [Source](https://faculty.washington.edu/cemills/FHLTimeline.html)
8. [Source](https://www.biology.washington.edu/people/profile/ao-dennis-willows?qt-related_content=1#qt-related_content)
9. [Source](https://marinebiology.uw.edu/about/directors-welcome/)
10. ROR release v1.33