Natalia Sarmanto - the expedition is the ultimate highlight

Working with climate change and natural resource management has made me realise just how crucial data is—and how it’s used in scientific research. For a long time, I’ve wanted to take part in a field expedition, not only to collect data but also to gain hands-on experience in how this kind of research is conducted and to contribute to the important work that scientists are doing all over the world.

The changes in snow levels are something I’ve witnessed firsthand during the many winters I’ve spent in northern Finland. This has made me think for years about how I could contribute directly to research on the topic. So, when I came across ARG and learned about their past expeditions, I knew I had found my project.

With my passion for exploration and new challenges, I couldn’t be more excited to be part of the upcoming expedition to Svalbard. It’s the perfect combination of science and adventure! I’m looking forward to contributing to broader research on the effects of climate change in the Arctic. But beyond that, the idea of being in the high Arctic—living the simple camp life, sleeping in tents, cooking with dry food, and being surrounded by nature day and...day—is something that really excites me.

I can’t wait to share this experience with a group of like-minded people, exchange stories, and see how all our preparation, funding applications, and hard work come together with the expedition as the ultimate highlight.