The Importance of Research Cooperation in the ARCTIC - Across Borders and Disciplines 

Open Seminar Tuesday May 30 from 12:00 – 13:00 at Litla Torg at the University of Iceland 

The Arctic region is currently at a critical juncture. It is experiencing climate warming at twice the global rate and is warming faster than any other region in the world. Immediate action is necessary to tackle the challenges facing the region and there is an urgent call for increased research collaboration to address the various societal, environmental and political issues arising.  

The University of Iceland recognises this importance and has therefore strengthened its cooperation with the Arctic University (UArctic) as well as launched a new innovative academy focused on social and environmental leadership in the Arctic (ARCADE). ARCADE has also partnered up with the Arctic Circle which provides an essential global  platform for discussing Arctic challenges, fostering research collaboration, promoting sustainable development, and advancing international cooperation on Arctic issues. 

Join us for an open seminar where we will address the main challenges we face when it comes to strengthening research cooperation and knowledge building in the Arctic. 

At the seminar the rector of UArctic and the rector of the University of Iceland will sign a new collaboration agreement enhancing the role of the University of Iceland in the UArctic network. The agreement entails that Gunnar Stefánsson, Professor of Engineering at the University of Iceland, will hold the position of UArctic Vice President for Research for the next five years.  

Speakers:  

Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Former President of Iceland and Chairman of the Arctic Circle 

Jón Atli Benediktsson, Rector of the University of Iceland 

Lars Kullerud, President of the University of the Arctic (UArctic) 

Aud Lise Norheim, Ambassador of Norway to Iceland 

Tove Søvndahl Gant, Head of the Greenland Representation to Iceland 

Moderator: Pia Hansson, Director of the Institute of International Affairs at the University of Iceland 

The seminar is open to all