About PARADIGM

PARADIGM — A BRICS Predicted Ocean: Roadmap and Demonstration of Model Validations, Intercomparisons, and Applications for Sustainable Management of the Coastal Oceans — is a multilateral scientific initiative launched in 2022 under the BRICS STI Framework Programme. The project supports the vision of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, aiming to advance coastal ocean forecasting through regional collaboration, high-resolution modeling, and science-based tools for societal benefit.

The primary goal of PARADIGM is to develop and intercompare Operational Forecast and Analysis Systems (OFAS) for key coastal regions in Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Each country focuses on a geographically and dynamically distinct marine environment, using numerical modeling, data assimilation, and remote sensing to improve predictive skill and support local decision-making. A common validation framework and shared performance metrics enable meaningful intercomparison and capacity transfer across diverse systems.

The project is coordinated by a distributed network of national teams. Brazil (UFRJ) leads modeling in the Southwest Atlantic, with a focus on mesoscale validation and marine dynamics. Russia (IORAS) manages Arctic forecasts in the Barents and Kara Seas, integrating in situ cruise observations and high-latitude modeling tools. India (IISc) works on the Bay of Bengal, addressing freshwater influx, river discharge, and monsoon-driven variability. China (FIO) contributes advanced wave-tide-circulation modeling in the Chinese marginal seas, providing a benchmark reference for intercomparison. South Africa (SAEON) develops OFAS for the Benguela Current region, emphasizing coastal upwelling, ecosystem services, and capacity building.

Beyond technical development, PARADIGM promotes training, open data practices, and cross-border collaboration. The project organizes joint workshops, summer schools, and student exchanges, strengthening expertise in regional ocean modeling and observational data processing. A shared repository of modeling tools and analysis scripts supports reproducibility and transparency across the consortium.

Looking ahead, the consortium is preparing to launch a second phase — tentatively titled PARADIGM-RA: Regional Applications of Coastal Ocean Modelling — with a greater focus on societal applications, AI integration, and extreme event forecasting. Building on the trust and infrastructure established during the first phase, PARADIGM continues to grow as a model of BRICS cooperation in ocean science and sustainability.