The Rice’s whale (Balaenoptera ricei), the most recently described great whale species (2019), is endemic to the Gulf and among the most endangered cetaceans in the world (likely <100 individuals remain). Current knowledge suggests that the highest density of Rice’s whales occurs in the northeastern Gulf, although recent information confirms their presence in the western and southern Gulf. They are subject to a variety of threats, including vessel strikes, noise from vessels and energy activities, ingestion of marine debris, entanglement in fishing gear, and exposure to oil and other pollutants. Comprehensive modeling after the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill indicates the species experienced severe increases in mortality, failed pregnancies, and adverse health effects. A workshop that brought together 47 experts to identify research gaps and priorities relevant to Rice’s whale management and conservation was held in October 2024 in Miami, FL. The workshop had two main goals: (1) identify, organize, and prioritize research to address key management and conservation needs for Rice’s whales; and (2) create the foundation for a collaborative research network and advance co-produced science and information exchange, outreach and educational activities, and resource and data sharing. This presentation will provide an overview of the workshop, which used a modified “World Café” technique for expert elicitation. Participants developed prioritized lists of research needs, assessing their potential impact and feasibility, under four broad themes: (1) distribution, abundance, and population dynamics; (2) habitat use, movements, and trophic interactions; (3) population genetics, evolutionary history, physiology, and health; and (4) threats and mitigation of human impacts. The goals and structure for building a Rice’s Whale Collaborative Research Network were also discussed. Workshop proceedings, key outcomes, and recommendations will be published in a scientific journal.