Global Warming Focuses Attention on Antarctic Studies
Thursday, 16 April 2009
Antarctica is emerging as one of the world’s most influential and important geographical regions. As a marker of environmental change, influencer of global weather, and with richer sea life than the tropics, the region is attracting increasing international scientific attention. To answer this call for greater understanding of Antarctica's influence on the planet three New Zealand universities are offering some of the most respected general and specialized Antarctic study options available anywhere in the world.
For students wishing to pursue exciting environmental research and learning opportunities, coupled with practical field work experience in a unique and challenging region, New Zealand Antarctic Studies may be a good option.
Gateway Antarctica
The centre for Antarctic studies and research at the University of Canterbury offers teaching and supervision (including Antarctic field work) for four postgraduate programs which provide a pathway for students into exciting areas of Antarctic research or lead to job opportunities primarily with environmental or government agencies.
Current research projects include: examining ice dynamics; remote site design management; Antarctic legal and policy issues; tectonic evolution of the Pacific; Gondwana margin processes and interactions of ozone in the Antarctic atmosphere.
Canterbury University offers:
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Graduate Certificate in Antarctic Studies
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Postgraduate Diploma in Antarctic Studies (equivalent to first year of Masters program)
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Master of Antarctic Studies
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PhD: Doctor of Philosophy
A number of Antarctic studies courses are also offered at undergraduate level (but not as a major).
Antarctic Research Centre
Victoria University of Wellington’s ARC is one of a number of centre’s of research excellence within the Faculty of Science.
The ARC mission is to improve understanding of Antarctic climate history and processes and their influence on the global climate system. This field provides exciting opportunities and challenges for young researchers, and is needed to provide a sound basis for international debate and policy development on global change issues.
Most research projects have opportunities for graduate student involvement, at Honors, Masters or PhD level. Current research areas include:
Antarctic-related courses are also offered at undergraduate level.
Antarctic Research
The University of Waikato has been involved in Antarctic Research for over 40 years, mainly in the areas of biological, soil, geological and geochemical sciences. The Antarctic Research Unit at Waikato offers strong support for graduate students undertaking thesis research in the Antarctic. Recent graduate thesis projects have focused on:
Microbial biodiversity
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Fungi in extreme environments and historic huts
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Terrestrial ecology
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Genetic diversity
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Soil distribution and mapping
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Impacts of human activities on the Antarctic terrestrial environment
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Investigation of soil and permafrost climate.
Waikato students have received scholarships to work in Antarctic Research, and the University holds a contract from the Foundation for Research, Science and Technology in Terrestrial Bio Complexity.
Senior undergraduate students may also have an opportunity to incorporate Antarctic Research or related themes into their qualification.
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