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Science

Understanding the Ocean Through Rigorous Research

At ODTIF, science serves as the essential foundation for all our activities. We conduct high-quality, interdisciplinary research to uncover the complex mechanisms of ocean and coastal pollution, microbial contamination, sediment transport, and ecosystem responses. Our scientific work provides the critical evidence needed to develop effective technologies, artistic expressions, educational programs, and sound policies.

Our Scientific Approach

ODTIF’s science pillar focuses on the interconnectedness between land-based pollution and marine environments. We investigate how pollutants move from rivers and terrestrial sources into coastal zones and the open ocean, with special attention to emerging threats such as antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), heavy metals, and organic pollutants.

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By combining field sampling, advanced laboratory analysis, modeling, and innovative source-tracking methods, we generate reliable data that supports real-world solutions for ocean protection.

Key Research Partners & Contributions

Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM)

KIGAM plays a central role in ODTIF’s scientific research, particularly in river-to-ocean pollutant pathways.

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  • Dr. Jo Dong-wan (조동완 박사) leads the major national project “Development of Source Tracking and Management Technology for Heavy Metals and Organic Chemicals in River and Lake Sediments.” His team uses metal stable isotope analysis and organic chemical profiling to identify pollution sources in Korea’s four major rivers and the Saemangeum area. Recent work includes pilot studies on eco-friendly stabilization of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) using activated rice husk biochar.

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  • Dr. Ji Sang-woo (지상우 박사) contributes to geochemical research and environmental policy support, focusing on sediment contamination and its long-term impacts on coastal and marine systems.

KIGAM ODTIF Founding Member

University of Florida

Dr. Chamteut Oh (오참뜻 교수) leads groundbreaking research on the impacts of tropical cyclones on coastal microbial water quality. Using the innovative LAMST (Large Language Model-Assisted Microbial Source Tracking) framework, his team revealed how hurricanes simultaneously mobilize terrestrial runoff, wastewater overflows, and marine sediment resuspension, accelerating the spread of pathogens and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in coastal waters.

UF ODTIF Founding Member

Vietnam Japan University (VJU)

Professor Ha (하 교수) contributes to ODTIF’s international research efforts with a focus on marine environmental science and pollution studies in Southeast Asian coastal regions. His work strengthens ODTIF’s understanding of transboundary pollution issues and supports comparative studies between East Asian and Southeast Asian marine environments.

VJU ODTIF Founding Member

Core Research Themes

  • Microbial source tracking and post-disaster coastal water quality

  • River sediment pollution pathways and remediation technologies

  • Climate change and extreme weather impacts on marine ecosystems

  • Antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in coastal and marine environments

  • Integration of scientific data with technology, art, education, and policy

Call to Action

  • We actively seek research collaborations with universities, research institutes, and scientists worldwide who share our passion for ocean science.

ODTIF Science Blue Thread
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