Our Location & Culture

Rooted in a deep appreciation of the natural world, our culture is one that nurtures curiosity and creativity, fosters inclusion, celebrates diversity and values scientific excellence and rigor. Founded in 1898 in the midst of a new era of scientific thinking, the MDI Biological Laboratory continues to push scientific boundaries and challenge conventional thinking by welcoming those who possess a passion for discovery and the pursuit of knowledge.

Our iconic campus is a gathering place for preeminent scientists, motivated students and engaged citizens where new ideas are sparked, new knowledge is discovered, critically discussed and disseminated to the world. Nestled in the heart of Acadia National Park, our idyllic location serves as constant inspiration, fosters collaboration, and grounds us in an inherent appreciation for the beauty and complexity of nature. 2021 marked the 100^th anniversary of the Laboratory’s move to Mount Desert Island at the invitation of George Dorr, renowned preservationist and “father” of Acadia National Park.

An Ideal Location

The MDI Biological Laboratory campus is located five minutes from Acadia National Park, which is home to miles of rocky shoreline, abundant wildlife and Cadillac Mountain—the tallest mountain on the Atlantic coast.

Mount Desert Island offers panoramic views, cycling and hiking paths, canoeing, kayaking and swimming. Bar Harbor and its neighboring communities are known for outstanding dining, shopping and arts activities.

Our Location

View Our Interactive Campus Map

Explore our campus through our new interactive map with photo galleries and descriptions of featured locations.

View Map

Finding Us

The MDI Biological Laboratory is located at 159 Old Bar Harbor Road, Salisbury Cove, Maine. Detailed campus map.

Driving

The MDI Biological Laboratory is 6 hours northeast of Boston and 3 hours northeast of Portland, Maine.

From Ellsworth:

Take Route 3 East towards Bar Harbor/Acadia National Park.
After crossing the bridge onto Mount Desert Island, bear left on Route 3 towards Bar Harbor.
In 4.3 miles, turn left onto Old Bar Harbor Road.
The MDI Biological Laboratory is 300 feet ahead on the left.

Flying

The MDI Biological Laboratory is accessible via Bangor International Airport (BGR; 70 minute drive), with direct connections to Philadelphia, Washington D.C., New York and Detroit. The Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport (BHB; 10 minute drive) connects directly to Boston. The Bar Harbor and Bangor airports are located 10 and 70 minutes from campus, respectively.