This program aims to cultivate international undergraduate students with research potential by engaging them in NCUE’s industry-academia collaboration project—“Investigation and Conservation Education Promotion of Clam Habitats Along the Changhua Coast.” Students will participate in research on intertidal biodiversity and blue carbon sequestration potential under the impact of climate change, combining field surveys, laboratory analyses, and educational outreach to develop interdisciplinary skills in marine ecological research and environmental sustainability.

Participants will assist in intertidal biodiversity observations, species data recording, and carbon sequestration potential assessments. They will also take part in marine citizen science outreach activities, supporting local conservation policies and educational advocacy. The research encompasses surveys of ecosystems such as intertidal wetlands, mangroves, and salt marshes along the Changhua coast of Taiwan, focusing on the impacts of climate change on coastal ecosystems and their carbon sequestration potential. Students will receive training in sample processing, data modeling, and scientific report writing to enhance academic capacity and gain practical experience.

The program’s objectives include:
(1) cultivating international students with academic potential, encouraging them to pursue master’s degrees at NCUE, and fostering international academic collaboration;
(2) strengthening the establishment of intertidal biodiversity data and blue carbon policy support to promote Taiwan’s sustainable marine environment; and
(3) enhancing international students’ involvement in Taiwan’s intertidal ecological education and citizen science cooperation, thereby expanding global collaboration networks.

The expected outcomes include deepening international cooperation in marine science, supporting the development of blue carbon policies for climate change mitigation, and advancing the long-term conservation of intertidal ecosystems along the Changhua coast.

Participants will also gain cultural experiences and learn Mandarin, integrating into Taiwan’s academic and living environment, laying a solid foundation for future graduate studies.

*** If you are interested in this project, please submit a research proposal of no more than 400 words. Your proposal should include the research topic, execution methods, timeline, expected outcomes, and your unique strengths in carrying out the project. *** Additionally, in no more than 100 words, describe how participating in this project would contribute to your future goals