Summary

As part of the capacity-building efforts for the SUSTAIN project, a training course will be delivered on ocean modeling and AI for coastal biogeochemical characterisation and increased resilience in the Philippines. It will be the first CoastPredict training course in collaboration with DCC-CR (Decade Collaborative Centre for Coastal Resilience), which will potentially serve as a template that can be replicated in other regions.

Course objective

This training program offers a comprehensive introduction to numerical ocean modeling, machine learning techniques and remote sensing applications, to simulate and analyze the complex dynamics and biodiversity of Philippine marine environments. It is designed to provide professional development to enhance capacity in modeling and assessment to support the protection and conservation of marine ecosystems and natural resources.

Participants will gain an understanding of key concepts in numerical ocean circulation modeling, dynamical downscaling methodology, unsupervised machine learning algorithms and remote sensing applications. The program emphasizes hands-on learning and upskilling, enabling participants to develop practical skills using advanced ocean modeling tools to address real-world challenges in marine environments.

The course introduces the SURF ocean modeling platform through a detailed, step-by-step tutorial that guides learners in setting up and running simulations. A specific case study focused on the Philippine coastal region will be performed to provide real-world context, allowing participants to apply their new skills to practical scenarios. The knowledge and expertise gained from this program will enhance capacities for predicting and managing the impacts of human activities and climate change on ocean dynamics and marine ecosystems.

Venue

The course will be subdivided into two phases:

An online phase will take place through OTGA e-learning platform.

An in-person phase which will be held in Quezon City, Philippines, at the University of Philippines. 

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course the participants should be able to:

• Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the key principles behind Numerical Ocean Circulation modeling and the Dynamical Downscaling methodology.
• Set up and execute ocean simulations using the SURF ocean modeling platform.
• Apply advanced AI modeling techniques to predict and analyze coastal chlorophyll concentrations.
• Incorporate remote sensing data into oceanographic analyses to enhance environmental monitoring

Target audience

The course is targeted particularly towards mid-career scientists and professionals from environmental protection agencies, governmental officers and postgraduate students (with basic knowledge of oceanography and modeling).                  

Technological requirements/computer skills

• Python, Jupyter notebook

Course content and agenda

• Preparatory Phase - 24 Feb 2025: 8.00 CET / 15:00 GMT+8 (3 hours) - (BBB)

• Francesco Trotta - Fondazione Centro Euro-Mediterraneo sui Cambiamenti Climatici (CMCC)
• Aletta T. Yñiguez - Marine Science Institute - University of the Philippines Diliman
• Federica Benassi - Fondazione Centro Euro-Mediterraneo sui Cambiamenti Climatici (CMCC)
• Luca Giunti - Fondazione Centro Euro-Mediterraneo sui Cambiamenti Climatici (CMCC)
• Laura T. David - Marine Science Institute - University of the Philippines
• Cesar L. Villanoy - Marine Science Institute - University of the Philippines
• Aiko Love B. del Rosario - Marine Science Institute - University of the Philippines
• Viviana Piermattei - Fondazione Centro Euro-Mediterraneo sui Cambiamenti Climatici (CMCC)
• Lorenzo Mentaschi -  University of Bologna
• Igor Atake - Fondazione Centro Euro-Mediterraneo sui Cambiamenti Climatici (CMCC)
• Gianandrea Mannarini - Fondazione Centro Euro-Mediterraneo sui Cambiamenti Climatici (CMCC)
• Samantha Siedlecki - Department of Marine Sciences - University of Connecticut