Abu Dhabi,January 2026: The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi EAD hosted six students from American University of Sharjah AUS for a hands-on marine research experience aboard its state-of-the-art research vessel ‘Jaywun’. The mission provided the students the opportunity to conduct real-world fieldwork alongside leading UAE scientists studying the nation’s coastal and marine ecosystems.
Under the supervision of marine experts from EAD and AUS, students participated in fish identification, sampling and collection and analysis of water and sediment samples, They also explored the operation of advanced onboard instruments and learned how marine data feeds into national environmental monitoring networks.
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.”
“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. “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.”
“I had an amazing experience aboard the Jaywun research vessel! It was an incredible opportunity to gain hands-on exposure to marine fieldwork and learn about new research tools and techniques used in environmental monitoring. The trip was filled with learning, collaboration, and wonderful moments of bonding with my fellow Environmental Sciences and Sustainability students!” said Zeina Iskandarani, who is currently studying for a BSc in Environmental Sciences and Sustainability at AUS.
Operated by EAD, the Jaywun is one of the most advanced marine research vessels in the region. It supports studies on biodiversity, water quality and sediment dynamics to strengthen the scientific understanding of Abu Dhabi’s marine ecosystems. It offers collaborative research platform for ocean monitoring and for understanding how climate change is impacting marine biodiversity, in the UAE and the region.
About Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi EAD:
Established in 1996, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) is committed to protecting and enhancing air quality, groundwater as well as the biodiversity of our desert and marine ecosystem. By partnering with other government entities, the private sector, NGOs and global environmental agencies, we embrace international best practice, innovation and hard work to institute effective policy measures. We seek to raise environmental awareness, facilitate sustainable development and ensure environmental issues remain one of the top priorities of our national agenda.
