The shipbuilding, maritime, and ocean sectors are undergoing major transformation driven by decarbonization, digitalization, geopolitical risks, and the expanding utilization of the oceans. In particular, the shipbuilding industry faces numerous challenges, including maintaining and expanding shipbuilding capacity, improving productivity, addressing workforce shortages, and transitioning toward next-generation vessels. At the same time, new ocean frontiers are rapidly emerging in areas such as ocean energy, ocean observation, autonomous navigation, and maritime digital transformation.
Yokohama National University, with its foundation in naval architecture and ocean engineering, possesses strong potential to contribute to the transformation of the maritime and ocean sectors as a comprehensive university encompassing diverse fields such as AI, robotics, cybersecurity, energy systems, management, and international policy. In addition, the university is located in Yokohama and Kanagawa, a maritime hub where industry, ports, government agencies, and research institutions are concentrated, providing an environment well suited for collaboration with universities, research institutions, companies, and government organizations both in Japan and abroad.
The Shipbuilding & Ocean Renaissance International Center (SORIC) was established in response to these circumstances to address the two major national challenges of “revitalizing the shipbuilding industry” and “advancing ocean development.” By integrating diverse and cutting-edge knowledge, technologies, and institutional frameworks across the shipbuilding and ocean domains, the Center aims to create sustainable and globally competitive next-generation maritime and ocean industrial systems.
To achieve this vision, SORIC consists of four laboratories: the Advanced Shipbuilding Technology & Talent Development Lab, the Next-Generation Shipbuilding Systems Lab, the Maritime Strategy & Global Partnerships Lab, and the Blue Economy & Ocean Innovation Lab. Through these laboratories, the Center promotes an integrated approach spanning research and development, social implementation, and international collaboration. Furthermore, by bringing together interdisciplinary knowledge and expertise, SORIC seeks to envision and communicate the future of maritime and ocean society.
Advanced Shipbuilding Technology & Talent Development Lab
This laboratory promotes integrated research and practical education in advanced shipbuilding technologies in collaboration with the shipbuilding industry, while building upon the fundamental disciplines of naval architecture and ocean engineering. In addition to undergraduate and graduate education, the lab works closely with professional reskilling programs to develop a talent ecosystem that supports the next generation of the shipbuilding and maritime industries.
Next-Generation Shipbuilding Systems Lab
This laboratory advances the digital transformation of shipbuilding systems through robotics, AI, digital transformation (DX), cybersecurity, and digital twin technologies. By leveraging digital technologies, the lab aims to dramatically enhance product value and productivity, while expanding shipbuilding capacity and shortening lead times to strengthen the competitiveness of the shipbuilding industry.
Maritime Strategy & Global Partnerships Lab
This laboratory promotes international collaboration in the maritime sector and provides practical support for institutional design, standardization, and industrial policy development. By connecting technology, industrial activities, and international regulations, the lab strategically supports the global competitiveness of the shipbuilding and maritime industries.
Blue Economy & Ocean Innovation Lab
This laboratory promotes integrated design and demonstration projects related to ocean utilization, including offshore wind power and ocean energy systems. Based in Yokohama and Kanagawa, the lab seeks to create new ocean-based industries and establish sustainable business models for future ocean economies.
