IPY 2007-2008

The New Generation Polar Research (NGPR) Symposium, led by Sue Weiler of Whitman College and Sheldon Drobot of the University of Colorado, will be held on 4-11 May 2008, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA.

One of the cornerstones of the International Polar Year 2007-2008 is the training of the next generation of polar scientists, much like the International Geophysical Year of 1957-58 served as the starting point for many of todays prominent scientists. Funded by the National Science Foundation, the NGPR Symposium will catalyze formation of a vibrant, interdisciplinary community of polar researchers working collectively to extend polar research frontiers across the natural and social sciences and to communicate their research to non-specialist audiences. The symposium will provide a venue where young researchers and practitioners can learn from each other and from veteran polar scientists (some who took part in IGY); share ideas and techniques for educational outreach;
expand their historical, scientific, and professional outlook; and forge lifelong, interdisciplinary, collegial relationships with their peers.

Among the polar scientists who will help mentor the new generation during the symposium are Patrick Webber, Michigan State University; Donal Manahan, University of Southern California; Stephanie Pfirman, Barnard College; Phil Smith, former executive director of the National Research Council of the National Academies; Jenny Baeseman, Kent State University; and Chris Elfring, director of the Polar Research Board of the National Academies.

Advanced students and PhD graduates conducting polar research during IPY and who completed or plan to complete their degree between 1 January 2002 and 31 March 2009 are eligible to apply. Scholars from the full range of natural and social sciences are eligible. While the focus is on U.S. research and most successful applicants will be conducting research at U.S. institutions, citizens of all countries are eligible.

For further information and application details can be found on the Symposium website.

For more information please contact {encode=" This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it " title="Sheldon Drobot"} or {encode=" This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it " title="Sue Weiler"}.