Beyond the Blue Internship Concludes, Preparing Next Generation of Palauan Ocean Leaders

The Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) and NOAA Ocean Exploration today announced the successful conclusion of the 10-week Beyond the Blue Summer Program. The program, which ended on August 18, 2025, equipped five Junior Regional Advisors (JRAs) with the skills and knowledge to become future leaders in marine science and ocean conservation.

The summer program, a multi-part initiative, combined foundational training, a three-week expedition at sea, and hands-on research projects. JRAs received training in environmental DNA (eDNA), seafloor mapping, and ocean acidification. They also participated in cultural immersion days to better understand the connection between traditional Palauan knowledge and marine science.

A pivotal part of the program was the JRAs’ time aboard the NOAA ship Okeanos Explorer. On the expedition, they conducted the most extensive eDNA sampling effort to date in Palau, collecting 312 samples from depths of up to 4,000 meters. The team also used multibeam sonar to map 39,358 km² of previously uncharted seafloor.

Upon returning to shore, the JRAs created technical reports and presentations based on their research, including an analysis of deep-sea data from a previous expedition aboard the E/V Nautilus. The program concluded with the JRAs sharing their experience on a special episode of PICRC’s Berius el Chais talk show and presentations of their group projects followed by their awarding ceremony at PICRC.

According to King Sam the PNMS Program Manager, the program successfully equipped the interns with new technical skills and a strengthened commitment to safeguarding Palau’s ocean heritage, ensuring that the discoveries of today help protect the islands for generations to come.

PICRC extends its gratitude to NOAA Ocean Exploration, the Ocean Exploration Trust, the crews of the Okeanos Explorer and E/V Nautilus, and the many mentors and partners who supported the JRAs throughout their journey.