The main mission of the Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology is to undertake applied marine and aquaculture biotechnology research to enhance number of expertise in the field of marine science and aquaculture through the biotechnology approach for discovery and production of diverse biomedical products of good quality and with potential to improve human health, environmental condition and natural productivity. This mission will be conducted through groundbreaking research in biotechnology key areas. In addition, this laboratory plays an important role to promote and provide an exceptional environment for specialised training and to mentoring tomorrow's marine and aquaculture biotechnology workforce while promoting economic growth through fundamental discoveries, innovative solutions to practical problems, generation and development of new technologies for commercial application.  MARSLAB strives towards the advancement of collaborative research to integrate biological, biotechnological and ecological disciplines in marine science in pursuit of academic excellence and innovation both at domestic and international levels. The laboratory also provides scientific foundation for the conservation, education and sustainable use of rich biodiversity resources of the country.

At present, laboratory research areas are categorized into three major programmes: Marine Bioproduction Technology, Ecosystem Health and Aquaculture Biotechnology. All listed research programmes are complemented by the availability of Associate Researchers and expertise from within university.  Research programmes are supported by grants awarded by various funding agencies of the nation and international organisations.