ARCTOS strategy 2024-2033

The ARCTOS Nework today:

ARCTOS was formally established in 2002. Today, it combines expertise from six northern Norwegian member institutions and partners with additional national and international institutions to achieve an integrated view of Arctic ecosystems, from local to pan-Arctic scales, creating synergies and building on the strengths of its members. ARCTOS science focuses on holistic approaches to understanding marine ecosystems and assess marine ecosystem services, human impacts, Arctic system sensitivity and resilience, all critical for effective management in Arctic waters. While this is not a trivial quest during times of rapid climate change and increasing anthropogenic use, ARCTOS is rising to the challenge. The ARCTOS network includes researchers (in 2024 a total of 100 members) on all career levels, from MSc students to senior scientists. It provides a unique environment, builds on trust, engagement and excellence for mentorship and creativity. ARCTOS provides an academic home for early career scientists from all member institutions to thrive, develop networks and academic skills. ARCTOS PhD students have very high graduation rates (89 % in 2022-2023) and find workplace opportunities within ARCTOS, Norway and internationally. Through regular meetings the network facilitates collaboration among members at all levels at the ARCTOS institutions.

During the next ten years, ARCTOS will continue and expand along its current trajectory with a focus on:

  • Strengthen its position as a world-leading network for Arctic marine research from the coastal to the open ocean, and from the Subarctic Norwegian Sea to the multi-year ice zones of the central Arctic Ocean.
  • Strengthen its position as a national node for Arctic and polar cooperation and partnership between its member institutions.
  • Enhance its role in providing a stimulating platform for education and mentoring of scientists at all career stages.
  • Lead international partnerships on research, management, and education on a Pan-Arctic scale.
  • Embrace new approaches and technologies to tackle emerging scientific opportunities and management challenges.
  • Increase and strengthen ties to stakeholders through communicating knowledge for science based environmental management.
  • Expand its scientific scope to include the Southern Ocean to reflect the increased science effort of member institutions in the Antarctic.