The Virgin Islands Center for
Autonomous Research (VICAR)
We’re building a new era of ecological marine science in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
VICAR combines marine ecology with autonomous systems, Artificial Intelligence, and modern data tools to better understand and respond to ecosystem changes across coral reefs, mangroves, and the open ocean while expanding local ocean sciene and technology opportunities and career pathways.
Our mission is to advance ecological monitoring and restoration through autonomous technologies and to build a place-based ocean science and technology workforce in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Its long-term vision is to harness robotics, artificial intelligence, and data systems to accelerate environmental research and strengthen enduring local capacity.
Research Focus
Led by Dr. Lauren Olinger, VICAR is based at the University of the Virgin Islands’ McLean Marine Science Center.
Its research focuses on coral reefs, mangroves, and open-ocean systems, using autonomous technologies to enhance monitoring and restoration. These efforts will generate high-resolution data to inform conservation, restoration, and climate adaptation across the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Community Impacts
VICAR engages VI youth through hands-on programs in marine science, robotics, and environmental monitoring, reflecting its strong commitment to student learning and opportunity. UVI students gain real-world experience through paid internships, research roles, and interdisciplinary courses tied to local environmental challenges.
