Sharjah Marine Science Research Centre - in pictures

Stephen Widdicombe, director of Sharjah Marine Science Research Centre, shows off the wet labs. All photos: Antonie Robertson / The National
Recently collected micro-organisms are examined under a microscope
The new Sharjah Marine Science Research Centre overlooks Shark Island in Khor Fakkan
The centre cost more than Dh100 million to build
It sits just metres from the water
The centre will provide an opportunity to show science need not be perceived as solely an academic pursuit
The team examines samples taken during a boat ride
Sharjah Marine Science Research Centre was opened Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah
It is in an optimum spot, as Shark Island is renowned for its marine life