TUM Launches SeaClear2.0 Winter School: Uniting Global Minds for Cleaner Oceans
MUNICH – The Technical University of Munich (TUM) has officially launched the SeaClear2.0 Winter School, an exclusive week-long event dedicated to "Advancing Marine Robotics for a Cleaner Ocean." Hosted by the Chair of Information-oriented Control (ITR) at the School of Computation, Information and Technology, the program has drawn 42 researchers from 16 countries to Munich, creating a truly international hub for marine innovation.
Running from 9 to 13 February, 2026, the Winter School is designed to tackle one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time: ocean pollution. The curriculum focuses on the cutting edge of autonomous underwater systems, specifically designed to identify and collect litter from the seabed.
A Deep Dive into Marine Robotics. The event features a rigorous academic schedule led by 14 distinguished experts. Over the course of the week, those experts will guide participating researchers through key topics, ranging from multi-robot coordination and litter-detection algorithms to the real-world challenges of deploying autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs).
"It is amazing how many students and researchers from all over the world followed our call to explore the state of marine robotics for environmental conservation. I am looking forward to interesting lectures and discussions, as we still have quite some work ahead of us for making a lasting impact," said Dr Stefan Sosnowski, the winter school coordinator. The program places a strong emphasis on practical application, exploring results from real-world trials in which robots face varying environmental conditions to maintain clean water.
Beyond the Classroom While the lectures at the Science Congress Centre Munich in Garching form the academic core of the week, the schedule is designed to foster collaboration and networking. “The itinerary balances intensive study with immersive experiences. Participants not only gain knowledge but also get to know each other and their respective work through daily introductory pitches, Dr. Sosnowski stated.
Global Collaboration for a Global Crisis The diversity of the affiliates, representing 16 nations, highlights the global commitment to solving the marine litter crisis. By bringing together the next generation of engineers and researchers, TUM and the SeaClear2.0 initiative aim to accelerate the development of technologies that can protect our oceans for future generations.
For more information on the project and future events, visit the SeaClear2.0.