APECS: Shaping the Future of Polar Research International Directorate Office

Norway, as many western countries, is facing a scientific generation gap in conjunction with the difficulty in recruiting natural and physical scientists. The work of APECS is helping young scientists maneuver the challenging academic world, encouraging t hem to stay in science, and recruit the next generation. APECS is not just a network; it's an opportunity to create a more qualified work force. Young researchers know that just being good in the laboratory is no longer enough to be successful. APECS pr ovides the means for developing skills in leadership, project management, communication, international relations, and more. By working with partners and senior researchers, APECS provides the critical link to creating a continuum of knowledge to tackle th e increasing scientific, political, social, and economic challenges of the rapidly changing polar regions and their impact on the global system. The leading international polar science organizations recognize APECS as the preeminent organization for you ng polar researchers. Since its inception, over 2000 young researchers from more than 40 countries have participated in APECS activities. This benefits institutions by increasing the quality and diversity of applicants. For example, a typical UNIS course receives ~60 applications, the latest IPY Polar Field Course received 300 qualified applicants, likely due to the cooperation with APECS. The APECS directorate will undertake a range of activities: 1) Further Develop APECS Partnerships, Membership and Sustainability 2) Host Career Development Workshops and Community-building activities 3) Establish a polar-specific recruiting service 4) Host online training courses 5) Maintain and Further Develop the APECS online community and website APECS is shapin g the future of polar research and we ask that Norway take the lead in supporting this critically important international effort.