Abstract:
The polar regions provide valuable insights into the functioning of the Earth’s regulating
systems. Conducting field research in such harsh and remote environments requires
strong international cooperation, extended planning horizons, sizable budgets and longterm
investment. Consequently, polar research is particularly vulnerable to societal and
economic pressures during periods of austerity. The global financial crisis of 2008, and
the ensuing decade of economic slowdown, have already adversely affected polar
research, and the current COVID-19 pandemic has added further pressure. In this
article we present the outcomes of a community survey that aimed to assess the main
barriers and success factors identified by academic researchers at all career stages in
response to these global crises. The survey results indicate that the primary barriers
faced by polar early and mid-career researchers (EMCRs) act at institutional level, while
mitigating factors are developed at individual and group levels. Later career scientists report pressure toward taking early retirement as a means of institutions saving money,
reducing both academic leadership and the often unrecognized but vital mentor roles
that many play. Gender and social inequalities are also perceived as important barriers.
Reorganization of institutional operations and more effective strategies for long-term
capacity building and retaining of talent, along with reduction in non-research duties
shouldered by EMCRs, would make important contributions toward ensuring continued
vitality and innovation in the polar research community.
