International Ocean Discovery Program (IODP³)
The global program for scientific drilling beneath the world’s oceans.
The International Ocean Discovery Program (IODP³) is a global research initiative that explores Earth’s oceans to investigate climate history, plate tectonics, natural hazards, and life deep beneath the seafloor. By drilling into marine sediments and oceanic crust, scientists access archives that reveal how our planet works from global cycles to tipping points in Earth’s past.
Marine drilling requires highly specialized vessels, complex logistics, and international collaboration. Through the European Consortium for Ocean Research Drilling (ECORD), Switzerland is part of this global effort and contributes to innovative research that cannot be achieved by a single nation alone.
What is IODP³?
Scientific Themes of IODP³
IODP³ projects address major questions in Earth and ocean sciences through several overarching themes:
Plate Tectonics
& Ocean Crust
Understanding how oceanic plates form, evolve, and recycle through Earth’s tectonic system.
Climate &
Environmental Change
Deep-sea sediments reveal Earth’s climate history, tipping points, and long-term environmental shifts.
Natural Hazards
Studying subduction zones, submarine landslides, and volcanic systems to understand marine risk chains.
Life Beneath the Seafloor
Exploring microbial ecosystems and the limits of life deep below the ocean floor.
Natural Hazards
Studying subduction zones, submarine landslides, and volcanic systems to understand marine risk chains.
Plate Tectonics & Ocean Crust
Understanding how oceanic plates form, evolve, and recycle through Earth’s tectonic system.
Climate & Environmental Change
Deep-sea sediments reveal Earth’s climate history, tipping points, and long-term environmental shifts.
Life Beneath the Seafloor
Exploring microbial ecosystems and the limits of life deep below the ocean floor.
Swiss Participation
Through ECORD membership, Swiss-based researchers gain full access to IODP³ platforms, programs, and scientific networks. SwissDrilling coordinates:
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Participation in IODP³ expeditions and shipboard science
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Access to samples and data during the moratorium period
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Proposal development for new drilling projects
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Funding for workshops, training, and early-career opportunities
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Integration into international scientific committees and networks
The Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) represents Switzerland in the European decision-making bodies and supports the scientific strategy and funding priorities of IODP³.
IODP³ Expeditions with Swiss Involvement
Swiss researchers contribute to global IODP³ missions spanning climate evolution, ocean crust formation, geohazards, and deep biosphere research.
More Information
Want to learn more about IODP³ and current opportunities?
