The University of Washington Friday Harbor Laboratories enthusiastically invites San Juan County residents and guests to join us for our Open House on Saturday, May 12.

The FHL Open House is a splendid opportunity to meet scientists, staff and students and to explore our research and teaching facilities. From 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Friday Harbor Laboratories will be open for self-guided tours.

Scientists and students will highlight their research and answer questions about studies of local waters and marine life. Our research ranges in scale from molecular to global, from cellular to ecosystem level. Organisms range in complexity from the simplest sponges to complex mollusks, other invertebrates and fish.

This year our talks will be at noon, 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. in our lecture hall.

Noon: “Hot Times for Coastal Critters,” Hilary Hayford, Ph.D.

1 p.m.: “Life in the Trenches,” Mackenzie Gerringer, Ph.D.

2 p.m.: “River Otters in a Land Without Water,” Brent Hughes, Ph.D.

Our open house will feature the research vessel Centennial and its oceanographic equipment, as well as electron microscopy, SCUBA, live zooplankton, underwater cameras, and more. Our exhibits are kid-friendly, so bring the entire family for a day of learning and fun. In keeping with FHL Open House tradition, there will be free popcorn. Hot dogs and other snacks will be available for purchase on the dining hall deck.

Billie Swalla

Director, UW-Friday Harbor Laboratories