The Marine Research Institute (MRI), established in 1965, is a government institute under the auspices of the Ministry of Fisheries. MRI conducts various marine research and provides the Ministry with scientific advice based on its research on marine resources and the environment.

The three main areas of activities of the MRI are the following: (1) to conduct research on the marine environment around Iceland and its living resources, (2) to provide advice to the government on catch levels and conservation measures, (3) to inform the government, the fishery sector and the public about the sea and its living resources.