UMass Dartmouth announced Wednesday that the university was awarded $739,936 from the Baker-Polito administration to support the development of a new research and development laboratory at its School for Marine Science & Technology (SMAST) campus in New Bedford.

“We are pleased to make investments across the state to support projects like this, which are addressing critical demands for new, innovative products,” Gov. Charlie Baker said. “This investment in new research infrastructure at UMass Dartmouth will further strengthen Massachusetts’ Blue Tech sector, working collaboratively with the private sector to create innovative products and grow jobs here in the Commonwealth.”

Money will be used to build a state-of-the-art facility with classrooms, labs, along with equipment which will address material biodegradability and its environmental impact. 

Funds will also go toward auxiliary services in toxicology testing and microplastics assays on the main campus in Dartmouth.

“I want to thank our partners at the Mass Tech Collaborative and PrimaLoft who have helped UMass Dartmouth continue our research focus in the key areas of sustainability and the Blue Economy,” said Chancellor Mark Fuller said. “With this new biodegradability lab, our university will be able to create research opportunities for students and faculty while providing impactful results and economic benefits to government and industry.”

The new lab is expected to open in early spring 2022.