The Ma-Re Institute was officially constituted in October 2006 as one of the first signature themes at the University of Cape Town. The Ma-Re Institute strives to transform the marine field through capacity building and skills development. It is open to all marine-related research groups and individuals at UCT, studying the ocean and coastal zones, as well as all issues influencing these areas. The Ma-Re institute fosters inter-disciplinary marine research projects and organises a regular seminar series in conjunction with the South African Network for Coastal and Oceanic Research. It acts as a gateway between UCT and the outside world for marine research contracts. While the main objective is to undertake and facilitate research, it also provides administrative support for marine research, meetings, projects and activities.