Ifremer and Institut Polytechnique de Paris Inaugurate a New Maritime Engineering Research Center
On Wednesday, the French Research Institute for Exploitation of the Sea (Ifremer) and the Institut Polytechnique de Paris (IPP) officially launched an interdisciplinary research and training center focused on maritime engineering, aimed at fostering innovation in both civilian and military sectors.
The Centre Interdisciplinaire Mers et Océan (CIMO) will kick off its initiatives with the launch of a master’s program in offshore wind energy in 2025, with the goal of training 250 students over five years.
“The maritime sector is once again gaining attention. We are seeing renewed interest among engineering students in these topics,” said Élisabeth Crépon, director of the École Nationale Supérieure de Techniques Avancées (ENSTA), a member of IPP, during a press conference at Ifremer’s headquarters near Brest.
Thierry Coulhon, president of IPP’s executive board, emphasized the strategic importance of the ocean in scientific and technological innovation, stating:
« When building a world-class institute for science and technology, the ocean emerges as a top priority. »
The center will focus on « dual-use research, » developing technologies with both civilian and military applications. Key research areas include drones, underwater robotics, ocean observation, and acoustic communication.
Supported by the French National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS) and the Defense Innovation Agency (AID), CIMO aims to improve coordination in responding to European research funding calls.
« Better coordination is essential if we want to be more credible and efficient, » said Laurent Mortier, CIMO’s scientific director.
Source: linfodurable
