Subsea Systems Institute

The Subsea Systems Institute (SSI) advances offshore energy safety, efficiency, and innovation through applied research, technology validation, and workforce development. Backed by the expertise of the University of Houston, Rice University, and NASA’s Johnson Space Center, SSI is shaping the future of subsea systems and empowering energy leaders.

Automation and Autonomy of Mobile Robots

The Subsea Systems Institute (SSI) is hosting a free course, starting March 28, 2025, to help you excel in robotics and automation—key areas driving innovation in the subsea industry. Robotics advances subsea technologies, from inspection and maintenance to complex navigation in underwater environments. By learning the fundamentals of electrical systems, programming, and tools like the Robotics Operating System (ROS), students will gain practical knowledge applicable to subsea challenges. Through hands-on projects, SSI supports preparing the next generation of innovators for impactful careers in subsea systems and beyond.

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Repurposing Offshore Infrastructure

The Repurposing Offshore Infrastructure for Clean Energy (ROICE) program emerged from the Subsea Systems Institute (SSI) as a forward-thinking initiative to address the challenges and opportunities associated with decommissioned offshore infrastructure in the Gulf of Mexico. By repurposing existing infrastructure, ROICE aims to reduce the carbon footprint, create clean energy jobs, and extend the life of vital offshore structures. The program’s initiatives focus on assessing techno-economic feasibility and developing the necessary frameworks for successful project implementation.

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Subsea Systems Research Projects

Active Projects

Offshore Asset Integrity Monitoring: Environmental Monitoring Design and Development of Offshore Power Systems Offshore Robotics and Automation for Safer Offshore Energy Systems Offshore Energy Transition: Repurposing Gulf of Mexico Assets

Completed Projects

MERIT links renewables and subsea oil & gas via smart HVDC routing Asset Integrity of Values and Bolted Connections High Accuracy Localization and Underwater Communication Developing Bio-Inspired Buoyancy Control for Subsea Service AUVs

More Projects

About Subsea Systems Institute

The Subsea Systems Institute (SSI) was established in 2015 as a collaboration between the University of Houston, Rice University, and NASA’s Johnson Space Center. Funded by the RESTORE Act, SSI focuses on applied research, technology validation, and workforce development to enhance safety, efficiency, and sustainability in offshore energy.

SSI conducts research into advancing offshore operations, including the repurposing of decommissioned offshore rigs for new uses such as renewable energy production and marine habitat restoration. A key focus of SSI’s work is the integration of robotics and autonomous systems to extend the reach of offshore exploration and maintenance. These technologies enable safer and more efficient operations at depths beyond human capability, reducing risks for workers while improving offshore asset management.

Through educational programs and industry-driven research, SSI equips professionals with the skills and knowledge to drive innovation in subsea systems. The Institute collaborates with experts, industry leaders, and global organizations, leveraging Houston’s position as an energy hub to develop cutting-edge solutions for offshore challenges.

By fostering collaboration between academia and industry, SSI supports the continued evolution of offshore energy, ensuring access to reliable and responsible energy solutions for the future.

The Subsea System Institute has improved safe and reliable offshore exploration and development

Meet the Team