The Naos Island Laboratories, located next to Panama City and near the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal , contain an extensive seawater system for research on marine organisms, a well-equipped molecular biological research facility, and laboratories for both marine and archaeological research. Extensive rocky intertidal shores, cobble and sand beaches, tidal mud flats and estuarine habitats are within easy reach.
The laboratories are comprised of three adjacent buildings on an island connected to the mainland by a causeway. The labs include molecular biology facilities for all aspects of DNA work, including automated sequencing and microsatellite work. There is a fully equipped dive locker and several small boats allowing access to the coast and islands in the Bay of Panama.