Who we are
About Sea-Bird Scientific
Sea-Bird Scientific delivers trusted ocean and freshwater measurement solutions that set the standard for accuracy and reliability. Our CTDs, sensors, and software empower scientists to collect precise data in the harshest environments. Backed by rigorous calibration and expert support, we enable informed decisions that advance research, protect ecosystems, and drive science forward.
Our mission
Accelerating our understanding of natural waters
Our customers work on the leading-edge of marine and freshwater science. Their results break the frontiers of what we know about natural waters and contribute to our understanding of environmental changes, ecosystem health, and more. This science relies on Sea-Bird Scientific instruments; the data we generate increases understanding and shapes policy. We exist to enable these critically important global research projects and are proud to play a part in accelerating knowledge — and conversation — of our oceans and waterways.
From the 1960s to today
Sea-Bird Scientific's Journey
1960s
Art Pederson develops high accuracy oceanographic conductivity and temperature sensors while employed at the Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) at the University of Washington (UW).
1968
Art patents his conductivity sensor, the forerunner of the SBE 4.
1973
US Navy SPURV (the first autonomous oceanographic vehicles) are in operation equipped with Art Peterson's sensors.
1974
Sea-Bird is founded by Art Pederson on Mercer Island to commercialize the sensor technology he developed at APL.
1979
Sea-Bird Electronics is incorporated by Art Pederson, named to combine his two loves - the Sea, and Bird - the maiden name of his wife.
1982
Sea-Bird introduces their first CTD, combining temperature, conductivity, and pressure measurement in one package.
2008
Sea-Bird Electronics acquired by Danaher Corporation, joining its Water Quality platform
2010
Acquisition of WET Labs, adding optical sensors for biogeochemical measurements
2011
Acquisition of Satlantic, expanding into optical and nitrate sensing technologies
2011
Formation of Sea-Bird Scientific, combining Sea-Bird Electronics, WET Labs, and Satlantic under one brand
2023
Danaher spins off its Environmental & Applied Solutions segment; Sea-Bird Scientific becomes part of Veralto, a new public company
Our impact
Customers We Serve
Discover how government, academic, and industry leaders use Sea-Bird Scientific instruments to advance research, monitor ecosystems, and shape global water policy.
Case Study
02.01.24
Understanding the Implications of the Lahaina Wildfire on Coastal Water Quality
This case_study was developed in partnership with Dr. Andrea Kealoha, Assistant Professor at the University of Hawaii Department of Oceanography, along with Dr. Craig Nelson, Dr. Nick Hawco, and Dr. Eileen Nalley.
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Case Study
12.01.18
Validating the Deep SeapHOx™ V2: Field Insights from an Experimental Kelp Farm"
On the northern edge of Hood Canal, a major basin in Washington State’s Puget Sound, a patch of Saccharina latissima (also known as Sugar Kelp) is helping to identify if seaweed aquaculture can help combat ocean acidification.
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Case Study
12.01.17
Autonomous Systems Help to Understand Nutrient Sources Within the St. Lucie Estuary
In this case_study we demonstrate how data broadcast from the St. Lucie Estuary by Florida Atlantic University’s network of sensors is used to monitor the outflow from Lake Okeechobee and determine whether it caused severe algae blooms in the estuary.
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Catch our wave
Get the latest from Sea-Bird Scientific
Discover our recent work and how scientists worldwide use Sea-Bird Scientific tools to drive accurate, data-based decisions.
Case Study
10.01.25
Revealing the Complex Dynamics of Antarctic Ice Shelf Melting with Sea-Bird Scientific’s SBE 49 FastCAT CTD + PDIM
This highlight was developed in partnership with the British Antarctic Survey. Sea-Bird Scientific interviewed Peter Davis, Ph.D., co-PI of the MELT project as part of the International Thwaites Glacier Collaboration at the British Antarctic Survey.
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Technology Guide
10.01.25
Inductive Modem Telemetry
Ocean scientists, researchers, and offshore engineers
are leveraging inductive modem technology to enable
seamless, cable-free data transmission between
subsurface instruments and buoy systems—streamlining
deployment and enhancing long-term monitoring
capabilities.
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Technology Guide
10.01.25
Sensors for AUV-ROV & Autonomous Platforms
Autonomous and remotely operated underwater vehicles
are revolutionizing ocean science by accessing environments
beyond the reach of traditional research methods. These
platforms, equipped with high-precision sensors, enable realtime
data collection while dramatically reducing operational
costs.
Learn More
Join our crew
Careers at Sea-Bird Scientific
Join Sea-Bird Scientific to power science-based decisions for better waterways. Our team-centered, growth-focused culture blends engineering, metrology, field science, and mentorship to deliver trusted data for global research and monitoring. We value inclusivity and belonging and continuous improvement. Build your career with purpose—explore roles and help advance water science worldwide.
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The Sea-Bird Swell
Stay connected with ocean and freshwater science through the Sea-Bird Swell newsletter. Each month, explore expert insights, product updates, and stories from the global research community. Subscribe today to receive practical tips, event highlights, and innovations that help you make informed decisions for ecosystem health. Join thousands of scientists and professionals shaping the future of water science - subscribe now!
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Contact our team
Ready to take the next step? Connect with Sea-Bird Scientific’s team for personalized guidance, support, or to request a quote for our solutions.