Organiser: Dr Isabelle Gapp, Co-Director, The Centre for the North & UK SHWG member for IASC
Supported by NERC UK Arctic Office
Register here
As the International Arctic Science Committee (IASC) prepares its new strategy (2027-2037) and in the lead-up to Fifth International Polar Year (IPY5, 2031-32), we are at a critical moment in helping to shape and direct the role of the arts, humanities, and social sciences. To ensure that all polar research is treated equitably as part of IPY5, we invite UK-based individuals, institutes, and organisations working across Arctic arts, humanities, and social sciences to join us for a series of workshops taking place online and in-person. Colleagues working on Antarctica are also welcome to join.
These workshops will directly inform the writing of a report that outlines UK research areas and strengths, shares best practices and ways of working, and identifies key and emerging priorities within our respective disciplines and fields. Examples of reports can be found for
Oceans and Coastlines Research& Terrestrial Research
We welcome input from all research areas broadly defined under the arts, humanities and social sciences. We aim to achieve a balance in representation across disciplines, career levels, and backgrounds with a focus on research taking place from within the UK. By developing a UK-wide report we can begin to expand this strategic focus internationally.
Events:
Please register for one of the events below by 28 August 2026.
Cambridge (hosted by NERC UK Arctic Office)
Date(s): 10-4pm, 11 September 2026
Location: British Antarctic Survey Headquarters, High Cross, Madingley Road, Cambridge
Aberdeen (hosted by The Centre for the North)
Date(s): 10-4pm, 16 September 2026
Location: Interdisciplinary Lounge, Crombie Building, University of Aberdeen
Online
Date(s): 10-4pm, 18 September 2026
Unfortunately, we do not have any funds to support travel or accommodation to these events, but catering at the in-person events will be provided.
For any questions please contact isabelle.gapp@abdn.ac.uk
Isabelle Gapp 
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