Participation in UNIS courses AT-311 and AT-319 2025
ETH Zurich
Lay summary
Description of the programme
The UNIS courses AT-311 and AT-319 offer highly interdisciplinary Arctic training combining theory, fieldwork, and expert insight. AT-311 focused on sea ice mechanics with a week-long field campaign on Van Mijenfjorden involving ice sampling and mechanical ice testing. AT-319 addressed Arctic shipping and maritime risk through lectures, case studies, and a research cruise to Yoldiabukta on board of a multifunctional vessel from UNIS. Lectures from experts in hydrography, ice engineering, and Arctic infrastructure grounded classroom learning in real-world applications. Together, these courses provided an outstanding mix of scientific depth, hands-on experience, and exposure to current challenges in polar region and Arctic research.
How did you benefit from the programme?
As a physicist, the training offered a chance to connect abstract knowledge with real-world Arctic systems. AT-311 contextualized physical principles in field-based sea ice mechanics. AT-319 broadened my perspective on navigation, environmental risk, and policy in the High North. Experiencing Arctic operations during the research cruise to Yoldiabukta and hearing from experts like Larry Mayer, who applies geophysical science to seabed mapping for safe navigation, highlighted how fundamental science supports societal needs. This interdisciplinary exposure helped me understand where theoretical insight fits into collaborative, applied research across disciplines.
What were the highlights of the training?
One highlight was spending a week on Van Mijenfjorden, conducting ice coring, mechanical testing and on-sight sea ice measurements, an unforgettable hands-on experience in extreme conditions. Another highlight was the AT-319 cruise to Yoldiabukta, where we engaged directly with Arctic marine operations. Lectures from diverse experts, especially Larry Mayer on seabed mapping, demonstrated how precise scientific work has critical real-world impact. The diversity of students and disciplines created a rich collaborative atmosphere that pushed me beyond my academic horizon and made the experience uniquely rewarding.
Would you recommend the programme to other students?
Yes, I would recommend these courses to students from a variety of academic backgrounds. While the teaching style may differ from what I'm used to in Switzerland, less formal or structured at times, the strength of the programme lies elsewhere. Every instructor and guest lecturer is a true expert in their field, and their ability to convey both deep knowledge and genuine passion is what makes the experience outstanding. The unique Arctic setting, interdisciplinary approach, and hands-on training more than compensate for any differences in teaching quality, making the programme a truly valuable and inspiring opportunity where you meet inspiring like-minded people.
Details
| Regional focus | Arctic |
| Location | Svalbard |
| Funded amount | 1,500 CHF |
| Project dates | 3rd March 2025 – 6th June 2025 |
| Category | Field and Summer Schools |