Call for 2026-2027 project proposals under the ISA-China Joint Training and Research Centre

The International Seabed Authority (ISA) are pleased to announce the launch of the 2026-2027 Call for Project Proposals under the ISA–China Joint Training and Research Centre (JTRC). This call forms part of the JTRC Scientific Research Work Plan for 2026–2027 and aims to strengthen international scientific collaboration in support of the ISA Marine Scientific Research Action Plan and the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.

The call invites joint research consortia composed of institutions from China and developing Member States of ISA—particularly Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS)—to submit proposals under the following research topic:

Historical data scientific analysis, new data processing and machine learning techniques for DeepData

Key activities envisioned under this direction include:

• Data Cleaning and Validation: collaborate with ISA’s Data Management Division to access and clean historic data, identify and rectify inconsistencies, errors, and missing data points, implement robust validation processes to verify the accuracy and reliability of cleaned data sets.
• Statistical Modelling and Recommendations: Develop statistical models to analyse cleaned data sets and extract meaningful insights; Identify patterns, correlations, and anomalies within the data that will inform decision-making processes; Generate recommendations for further data quality improvements and initiatives based on statistical findings and insights.
• Digitization of Reporting Templates: Convert existing VBS scripting used in Excel macros into modern web-based JavaScript applications; Develop intuitive online web forms that replicate the functionalities of current reporting templates; Facilitate increased data submission rates through streamlined online reporting processes, ensure user-friendly interfaces accessible across various devices and browsers; Enable real-time validation during data entry to minimize errors and inconsistencies.

The expected outcomes include:

• The best available data including the historical data readily usable for scientific analysis. To improve data quality through comprehensive data cleaning, validation, and statistical modelling; to leverage the expertise of data scientists to enhance the integrity and reliability of historic data held by the ISA.
• New data mining and machine learning tools designed, utilizing Excel macros with VBS scripting and other modern tools to digitize existing reporting templates into online-based web forms, integrating modern JavaScript technologies.

Selected projects will receive financial support of up to approximately RMB 319,500 (about USD $57,000).  and will run for a maximum period of 20 months.

The deadline for submission of proposals is 18th May 2026.

Submission details can be found here:

Call for Proposals | Annex A | Annex B

For further information, please contact: jtrc@isa.org.jm