Pusan National University and OceanX Launch Full-Scale Global Research on Deep-Sea and Climate Data

Joint Research Utilizing Exploration Vessel and Advanced Equipment

AI-Based Ocean Data Analysis and Talent Development

Pusan National University is set to launch full-scale global collaborative research on deep-sea life, climate, and ocean data by partnering with OceanX, a world-renowned nonprofit ocean exploration organization.

On April 14, Choi Jaewon, President of Pusan National University, met with Vincent Pieribone, Chief Science Officer (CSO) of OceanX, at the university headquarters, marking the beginning of practical cooperation utilizing global marine research infrastructure. The two institutions discussed key research infrastructure access and joint research directions, including deep-sea life and microbial sampling, onboard DNA sequencing equipment, methane concentration measuring devices, and seabed mapping instruments.

Following this, faculty members specializing in marine, atmospheric, and climate studies at Pusan National University visited the state-of-the-art exploration vessel OceanXplorer, docked at Busan Port. They inspected deep-sea exploration equipment and onboard laboratory spaces and analyzed cases of marine ecosystem, climate, and seabed data collection and utilization. In addition, both parties worked out specific action plans for future joint research and collaboration on educational programs.

Through this partnership, Pusan National University has identified a wide range of convergent research possibilities, such as marine ecosystem and biodiversity analysis, seabed topography, and marine environment data-driven studies, as well as integrated analyses of ocean-atmosphere-climate change, leveraging OceanX’s ocean data. In particular, expansion into advanced research areas such as AI-based ocean data analysis and digital twin construction is also anticipated.

Cooperation in education and talent development will also be expanded. Pusan National University plans to sequentially launch undergraduate and graduate student exploration participation programs, ocean data-based hackathons, and global joint education programs, based on vessel-based educational initiatives, hackathons, and remote learning.

Additionally, Pusan National University is building a convergent research platform that connects research, demonstration, and industrial dissemination by utilizing research infrastructure such as the Institute of Materials Convergence Research and Jang Young Sil AI Convergence Research Institute, as well as its industrial cooperation base with companies such as LG Electronics, Hanwha Ocean, and Samsung Heavy Industries.

OceanX also expressed its intention for mid- to long-term cooperation in connection with the United Nations Ocean Conference scheduled to be held in Busan in 2028. Pusan National University plans to leverage this opportunity to become a core hub not only for global marine research but also for policy collaboration.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.