The D.C.-based Smithsonian Institution has announced a $10 million gift from Roger and Victoria Sant to establish the Center for Marine Science at the National Museum of Natural History, the Washington Post reports.

According to museum officials, the center will serve the advancement of scientific knowledge about oceans, sponsor research fellowships, international symposia, and collaborations among Smithsonian scientists and researchers at other institutions around the world. In addition to the center, the gift will help to support a new marine science exhibition, developed in partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and establish an endowed chair for ocean research at the museum.

"Our support for the Smithsonian's Ocean Science Initiative grew out of a long-standing interest in marine science and a deep commitment to the Smithsonian," said Roger Sant, a member of the Institution's board of regents since 2001 and chairman of its executive committee, in a statement. "We believe the establishment of this chair will enhance the Smithsonian's already pre-eminent role in ocean research and further emphasize the Institution's leadership position in field science."

In addition to the Sants' gift, Congress has appropriated $18.2 million toward the $72 million project, and NOAA is expected to provide an additional $23 million.