About SPI Flagship Initiatives
SPI Flagship Initiatives are multi-annual programmes combining science and technology projects from different disciplines and different groups/institutions in Switzerland around a polar focus region. The funding is focused on field campaigns (logistics, safety, etc.), data management, outreach, and programme coordination, thus providing temporary infrastructure for a Swiss-led polar research programme.
The next call for proposals will open in early 2025.
For further information please read the detailed description of the SPI Flagship Initiatives framework and scope provided in the SPI Flagship Initiatives – Call for proposals. Please note that this document only applies to the ongoing projects below and will be updated for the new call.
Two SPI Flagship Initiatives (2022-2026)
The first two SPI Flagship Initiatives began their work in early 2022. The two selected programmes are:
PAMIR
From ice to microorganisms and humans: Toward an interdisciplinary understanding of climate change impacts on the Third Pole.
PIs: Dr. Francesca Pellicciotti (WSL/ISTA) and Prof. Martin Hölzle (University of Fribourg)
Swiss partner institutions*: EPFL, UniBe, ETHZ, WSL, UniFr, PSI, UZH, UniGe
Programme Homepage: https://pamir-project.ch
Press Release: "1.5 million Swiss francs for cryospheric research in Central Asia"
GreenFjord
Greenlandic Fjord ecosystems in a changing climate: Socio-cultural and environmental interactions
PI: Prof. Julia Schmale (EPFL)
Swiss Partner institutions*: EPFL, UniL, ETHZ, WSL, UZH
Programme Homepage:https://greenfjord-project.ch
Press Release: "New research programme will study fjord ecosystems in Greenland"
*’partner institutions’ involves institutions of PI, sub-PI, and other participants
Both SPI Flagship Initiatives are implementing ambitious science programmes from 2022 - 2026.