The Marine Mammal Institute gained institute status in 2006, and currently consists of five laboratories. Future growth is envisioned to eventually house 80 faculty, staff and students in a new building on the Hatfield Marine Science Center campus.  We will grow into a multi-disciplinary Marine Mammal Institute, dedicated to understanding not just where whales go, but how entire marine ecosystems work in which marine mammals are (or were) an integral part. The Institute will develop an experienced faculty that will contribute expertise in such areas as genetics, behavior, physiology, habitat assessment, ecosystem dynamics, and conflicts between marine mammals and human activities. In collaboration with faculty at other OSU colleges and scientists around the world, the Institute will provide greater outreach and public education, working with communities and industry to ensure that the important knowledge we gain is made available to stakeholders involved in the future of marine mammals.