UArctic

St Andrews joined the University of the Arctic (UArctic) in 2021 and hosted the UArctic Thematic Networks and Institutes Conference in collaboration with UArctic and the Scottish Government’s Nordic and Arctic Unit in May 2022.

Launched in 2001, UArctic is a cooperative network of over 220 universities, colleges, research institutes and other organisations concerned with education and research in and about the North. The network promotes relationships in education, science, research and policy based on reciprocity, equality and trust between northerners and other partners. This approach values the inclusion of traditional and indigenous knowledge systems, together with multidisciplinary perspectives from the arts, social and natural sciences. Through cooperation in education, research and outreach the network enhances human capacity in the North, promotes viable communities and sustainable economies, and forges global partnerships.

The Network is partnered with a number of external bodies including the Association of Polar Early Career Scientists, International Arctic Science Committee, International Arctic Social Sciences Association and UNESCO.

St Andrews is also a founding member of the Scottish Arctic Network (ScAN). The objectives of ScAN are to:

  • Establish a formal network of Scotland-based scientists and academics 
  • Improve inter-institutional collaboration and communication on Arctic research in Scotland 
  • Increase international and domestic awareness of Scotland's contribution to Arctic Research
  • Enhance promotion of Scotland's Arctic academic expertise 
  • Increase engagement with similar academic networks in Arctic countries
  • Encourage and support further Scottish higher education institutions to join the University of the Arctic network

ScAN signed an MoU with UArctic in March 2023 to be recognised as a UArctic Regional Centre.

The Global office regularly circulates opportunities available via UArctic and ScAN, which include conferences, funding calls, hackathons and other grant opportunities, through our newsletters and social media channels. For more information, please contact globalnetworks@st-andrews.ac.uk.