Arctic and Sámi Research in Focus as University of Northern British Columbia Visited Umeå University

The Arctic Centre aims to facilitate meetings […] and promote more sustainable and interconnected Arctic research.

Arctic research in focus

Simon Oja presents the Arctic Centre.

Image Monica Börlin

Throughout the day, Arctic Centre-associated researchers presented projects ranging from the impacts of climate change on ecosystems to health systems in sparsely populated areas, as well as issues related to tourism and security. These insights provided a valuable basis for discussing how international partnerships can strengthen knowledge development for the benefit of remote and Arctic communities.

"The Arctic Centre aims to facilitate meetings like this, where representatives from other universities can connect with our researchers, find inspiration, and establish the foundation for future collaboration. The visit from UNBC highlights the importance of cross-border dialogue and knowledge exchange, utilising existing platforms such as UArctic to promote more sustainable and interconnected Arctic research," says Simon Oja, Deputy Director of the Arctic Centre at Umeå University.

Sámi and Indigenous research deepens understanding 

The Várdduo – Centre for Sámi Research – presented its activities and highlighted the importance of Indigenous knowledge in Arctic research. Topics of language, identity, and sustainable community development and cultural revitalisation were discussed, alongside new research that offers a deeper understanding of the historical and contemporary circumstances of Sámi communities. These perspectives collectively emphasise the vital role of Sámi research in developing more inclusive and socially relevant Arctic knowledge.

Sámi research is a crucial aspect of Umeå University’s Arctic profile.

"Sámi research is a crucial aspect of Umeå University’s Arctic profile. By incorporating Indigenous perspectives, we enhance the research and its societal relevance. International collaborations, such as the one with UNBC, create opportunities for valuable comparisons and mutual learning between Indigenous peoples in different regions of the world," says Kristina Sehlin MacNeil, Deputy Director of Várdduo – Centre for Sámi Research at Umeå University.

UArctic as a key to collaboration

Dr. Paula Wood-Adams, Vice President for Research and Innovation at the University of Northern British Columbia.

Image Monica Börlin

Discussions included the University of the Arctic (UArctic), an international network of almost 200 member institutions, as a key platform for future collaboration. Through UArctic, researchers at Umeå University and UNBC can build on existing partnerships through thematic networks and the North2North mobility program, while also creating new initiatives in education and research.
The visit showcased the diverse research at Umeå University through the Arctic Centre, Várdduo – Centre for Sámi Research, and others. The presentations provided UNBC’s representative with insights into the various perspectives shaping today’s Arctic research landscape. The programme concluded with a meeting involving Deputy Vice-Chancellor Patrik Danielsson, Vice-Chancellor’s Adviser Thomas Olofsson, and Helena Gradin, Assistant Head of Division at the International Office.