The 2026 IOCAS International Training Course on Subsurface Mooring Observations
Qingdao, China
14 – 20 September, 2026
The subsurface mooring system is the most effective method for quantifying changing ocean conditions over long periods, which is a cornerstone of understanding climate change. However, recovery and deployment of moorings are very challenging and require comprehensive experience, professional knowledge, and skills. Based on rich experience and solid research capacity in subsurface mooring observation and application, the IOCAS has hosted three training courses on Subsurface Mooring Observations since 2023. The training program aims to provide scientific and technological training to countries worldwide, significantly contributing to the goal of global ocean observation.
Course Topics:
● Research vessel tour and introduction
● Mooring design, deployment, and retrieval procedures
● Field operation and data processing
● Dynamic processes and mechanisms analysis and interpretation
● Scientific reports
Eligible Applicants:
● Be aged under 40 in 2026;
● Early-career scientists, post-doctoral fellows, PhD students, and marine managers from countries worldwide engaged in marine scientific research, observation & application, and marine management & development strategy, etc., for more than 2 years;
● Good working knowledge of English and use of own personal laptop during the training;
● Good health, free from infectious diseases, severe hypertension, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, and physical disabilities；
● Seaworthiness (part of the training, i.e., field sampling will be on a boat);
● During the stay in China, abide by the relevant laws and regulations of the People’s Republic of China, and respect Chinese customs.
● Applicants who have attended the previous training courses held in 2023 & 2024 & 2025 are not eligible for selection.
Important dates
Applications are open during: 19 May – 21 June 2026
Announcement of selected participants: 25– 26 June 2026
Invitation letter released: 3 -7 July 2026
Handbook released: 31 August 2026
Course Dates: 14 – 20 September, 2026
Expenses and Financial Support for Participants:
● This training is expected to have a capacity for around 25-30 participants, and there is no registration fee;
● The IOCAS will cover meals and insurance fees for all participants during the training period;
● Limited financial support of accommodation and round-trip airfare between China and countries of participants is available for those applicants who meet the following criteria: Research experience in related fields (oceanography, hydrography, etc.) with published papers; Good working knowledge of ocean in-situ observations; Good ideas on ocean observations or potential funding for future international field campaign cooperation; A gender balance will be considered for this financial support selection.
Find out more here.