LOV-UMR7093 has 4 missions: scientific research, observation, teaching and scientific mediation. Various aspects of the ocean are studied in this unit, covering several disciplines: biology, chemistry, biogeochemistry and physics. Members of LOV are also involved in observation activities, in particular series conducted in the Villefranche roadstead, the Mediterranean and the global ocean. LOV conducts fundamental and exploratory research aimed at gaining a better understanding of the ocean and how it is affected by climate change.