Hawaii Pacific University has completed its merger with Oceanic Institute, the two entities announced today.

The merger was finalized on Jan. 1 following a review and approval by the state Department of Land and Natural Resources and the office of the state Attorney General. The merger, announced in July, also was approved by the boards of Hawaii Pacific University and Oceanic Institute.

“This is a merger that makes great sense for both OI and HPU,” said HPU President Geoffrey Bannister.

“Oceanic Institute’s successes in integrating and leveraging the research of various departments within the institute will help to inspire additional multi-disciplinary research within the university. HPU will benefit through the ability of faculty and students throughout the university to study and conduct research at OI,” he said.

Oceanic Institute traces its roots to 1960 when the state leased land to the Pacific Foundation for Marine Research to develop an institute for marine education, marine science and ocean industry. Initially known as the Makapuu Oceanic Center, it became the Oceanic Institute in 1972.

OI became an affiliate of HPU in 2003. Today, the institute employs about 50 scientists, technicians and support workers, who are now employees of the university.