As a graduate student at the University of Washington studying climate science, my research focuses on data assimilation and sea ice prediction. Specifically, I explore how incorporating broadband albedo (SIAL) into sea ice models influences forecasts and physical parameterizations. My work integrates observations with the Data Assimilation Research Testbed (DART) to refine predictions of sea ice concentration (SIC) and thickness (SIT), contributing to improved understanding of Arctic climate dynamics.
The Polar Early Career Working Summit (PECWS) and the Fourth International Conference on Arctic Research Planning (ICARP IV) provided an invaluable opportunity to connect with the broader polar science community. I was particularly eager to join this event because ICARP IV plays a crucial role in shaping the future of Arctic research priorities. Engaging with experts across disciplines, I gained insights into emerging research questions and the collaborative frameworks that will guide Arctic science for the next decade. The summit also provided a platform to discuss challenges faced by early-career researchers, from funding constraints to interdisciplinary collaboration.
A major highlight of my experience was deepening my understanding of the resources and support networks available for early-career scientists, particularly through the Association of Polar Early Career Scientists (APECS) and the Polar Early Career Community Office (PECCO). I connected with fellow early-career researchers who are actively shaping the future of polar research through APECS leadership roles, and I now have a clearer vision of how I can contribute to and benefit from these networks. APECS provides a global platform for collaboration, mentorship, and professional development, which will be invaluable as I advance in my career. Similarly, PECCO’s mission to support early-career researchers in navigating the complexities of polar science funding and networking has given me new tools to advocate for my work and seek out interdisciplinary collaborations.
Receiving this grant made attending these events possible, allowing me to share my research and exchange ideas with leading scientists and fellow early-career researchers. It broadened my perspective on how my work fits within global Arctic research priorities and reinforced the importance of interdisciplinary approaches. The experience also strengthened my professional network, opening doors for future collaborations and potential funding opportunities. Through conversations with experienced researchers and policy experts, I gained a more nuanced understanding of how science translates into policy, a perspective that will be critical as I continue my research on sea ice dynamics and climate modeling.
This opportunity has been instrumental in shaping my path forward, equipping me with new knowledge, connections, and inspiration to continue contributing to Arctic science. I am incredibly grateful for the support from UArctic that made my participation possible and hope that similar opportunities will continue to be available for early-career researchers eager to make an impact in polar research.
Part of the YoungArctic project, financed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Norway. YoungArctic is a collaboration between High North Center (at Nord University), UArctic, and the International Arctic Social Sciences Association (IASSA).Follow the project on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youngarcticproject/