About AFCSO
AFCSO was born from real experiences of student exchange and academic mobility within Sino-French marine science cooperation. Through existing collaborative projects, students and young researchers from both China and France had the opportunity to visit partner laboratories, engage in scientific discussions, and gain first-hand experience of different research environments, academic cultures, and training systems. These exchanges not only broadened our scientific perspectives, but also made us realize how valuable direct communication and mutual support can be for the growth of early-career researchers. As beneficiaries of this cooperation, we began to see the need for a more stable and youth-driven platform that could extend these opportunities beyond individual projects and connect more students, laboratories, and institutions. AFCSO was therefore established in France as a non-profit platform to strengthen long-term exchange, support young researchers, and help transform existing cooperation into a wider and more sustainable Sino-French network in ocean science.
Our Mission
AFCSO aims to strengthen Sino-French cooperation in ocean science by building on existing partnerships among laboratories, universities, research institutes, and related institutions in both countries. Through information sharing, academic exchange, and community-building, we seek to create more opportunities for students and early-career researchers, promote bilateral mobility, support the development of marine science research, and encourage cultural exchange as well as public awareness of ocean protection in both France and China.
Who We Are
AFCSO is a non-profit, youth-driven platform for Sino-French exchange in ocean science. Rooted in existing cooperation, it connects institutions, research teams, and young researchers through shared information, academic activities, and network-building.
What We Do Not Do
AFCSO does not replace universities, laboratories, supervisors, or formal research structures. We do not make academic decisions or intervene in matters beyond the role of an exchange platform. Our role is to support connection, communication, and responsible collaboration.
Our Core Values
Scientific Excellence
We uphold the highest standards of research integrity and academic rigor in all our collaborative programs.
Bilateral Trust
Built on mutual respect between French and Chinese scientific communities, fostering long-term partnerships.
Ocean Sustainability
Committed to advancing knowledge that protects marine ecosystems and promotes sustainable blue economy.
Inclusive Community
Welcoming researchers, students, and professionals from all backgrounds to join our mission.
Board Members
Jingyuan LI
President
Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (IOCAS)
Ludivine Grand
Vice-President
Mediterranean Institute of Oceanography (MIO)
Yutong Zhang
Vice-President
Mediterranean Institute of Oceanography (MIO)
Junhua Su
Secretary General
Aix-Marseille University (AMU)
Committee members to be announced
Governance
AFCSO is governed by a board that sets strategy, approves programs, and oversees financial and operational stewardship. The Secretariat executes approved initiatives and supports the community with day-to-day program delivery.
Clear governance
AFCSO follows transparent decision-making and documented processes aligned with non-profit best practices.
Ethics & compliance
Programs are reviewed for research integrity, data responsibility, and collaboration readiness.
Accountability
Regular reporting on activities, budgets, and outcomes ensures trust across our bilateral community.
Board Meeting Schedule
Get Involved
Interested in contributing to AFCSO? Here are ways to join us.
Open Positions
We occasionally have openings for program coordination, communications, and research support.
Contact Usarrow_forwardInternships
Support our community through hands-on placements in event organization, content creation, or data management.
Ask About Internshipsarrow_forwardVolunteer
Contribute to AFCSO events and programs as a volunteer.
Volunteer With Usarrow_forwardJoin Our Community
Whether you are a researcher, student, or institution — AFCSO welcomes you to our growing network of ocean science professionals.