AUS students first to join Environment Abu Dhabi’s Mission Aboard Research vessel Jaywun

Students from American University of Sharjah (AUS) recently participated in a hands-on marine research mission aboard Jaywun, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi’s (EAD) state-of-the-art research vessel, gaining first-hand experience in field-based environmental science alongside leading UAE researchers.

The mission builds on AUS’ ongoing collaboration with EAD, providing students with the opportunity to conduct real-world fieldwork alongside leading UAE scientists studying the nation’s coastal and marine ecosystems. During the expedition, AUS students worked under the supervision of marine experts from EAD and faculty from AUS, conducting fish identification, sampling, and the collection and analysis of water and sediment samples. Students also explored advanced onboard research instruments and learned how marine data contributes to national environmental monitoring networks.

“This was a truly unique opportunity for our students to experience the daily realities of marine field research,” said Dr. Sandra Knuteson, Senior Lecturer in Environmental Sciences in the Department of Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Sciences at AUS. “They gained first-hand knowledge of how scientists use data to understand and protect the UAE’s coastal and marine environments, while also seeing how multidisciplinary teams collaborate on large-scale environmental projects.”

She added: “Partnerships like this are essential for preparing the next generation of environmental scientists. By working alongside EAD researchers, our students developed the skills and curiosity that drive meaningful environmental stewardship.”

Participating students included senior undergraduates from AUS’ Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences and Sustainability program, several of whom will form the program’s first graduating cohort. Launched recently, the program combines classroom learning with applied fieldwork and research experiences designed to prepare students to address environmental challenges through science-based solutions.

Maitha Mohamed Al Hameli, Director of Marine Biodiversity Division at EAD, said “At the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, we are deeply committed to empowering the next generation of environmental leaders through real-world scientific experience. Inviting American University of Sharjah students aboard Jaywun offers students a first-hand understanding of how field research and data collection guide conservation policies and decisions. By opening our research platforms to young scientists, we aim to ignite curiosity, foster innovation and inspire future careers in environmental science to ensure that our collective efforts to safeguard the UAE’s natural heritage continue well into the future.”

For the students, the experience offered rare insight into professional marine research environments. “I had an amazing experience aboard the Jaywun research vessel,” said Zeina Iskandarani, a student in the Bachelor of Science Environmental Sciences and Sustainability program. “It was an incredible opportunity to gain hands-on experience in marine fieldwork and learn about new research tools and techniques used in environmental monitoring. The trip was filled with learning, collaboration and meaningful moments of connection with my fellow students.”

Operated by EAD, Jaywun is one of the most advanced marine research vessels in the region, supporting studies on biodiversity, water quality and sediment dynamics. The vessel also serves as a collaborative platform for academic engagement, strengthening partnerships between research institutions and supporting the development of future scientists.

The UAE is home to some of the region’s most diverse marine ecosystems and has made marine conservation a national priority through scientific research, monitoring programs and policy-driven initiatives to protect biodiversity and ensure the long-term health of its coastal and marine environments.

For more information about the Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences and Sustainability, visit www.aus.edu/cas/department-of-biology-chemistry-and-environmental-sciences.