Arctic System Science Conference 2026

Program

The Arctic System Science Conference 2026 is planned for in-person participation and we have capacities for about 250 participants. The conference has teleconferencing facilities for participating in certain sessions, listening to presentations, and giving presentations remotely. However, it is not a fully hybrid event, meaning that not all parts of the conference, such as poster sessions, social events, and local ad hoc discussion groups, will be available online.
There will be plenary sessions with all conference participants in one room, parallel session blocks as part of the scientific sessions, flexible time blocks (i.e., time for ad hoc discussions), and an extended poster session. The core scientific program will be accompanied by side events and other activities focusing on polar research, including a dedicated session for Early Career Researcher Session.

Travel Support Program for Early Career Researchers and Participants from Indigenous Communities

Thanks to the International Arctic Science Committee (IASC) we have funding available to support Early Career Researchers and participants from indigenous communities with their travel costs.

Contributions and particpation of Early Career Researchers (ECR) as well as people from indigenous communities is of fundamental importance for the conference and the future of polar science. For this reason the conference supports active participation in the conference by travel support.
The program is open to researchers who are students or within 5 years of receiving their PhD and we highly encouraging participants from indigenous communities (especially by prioritizing travel grants). Award recipients and amounts will be decided by a small committee, based on the applicant's contributions to polar science, contributions to the Arctic System Science Conference 2026 (i.e., session convening, poster or talk, etc.) and need for support (or lack of any other support).

Interested people should fill this travel support application form and send it us via mail. The application due date is given in the key dates table within the general information tab.

Abstracts

Please submit an abstract if you would like to present a poster or give a talk. By clicking on Abstract Submission you will be redirected to Helmholtz Cloud Event Management Platform powered by INDICO. You will be asked to log in to your personal or institutional INDICO account. If you do not have an account yet, please register for a new one.

Abstract Submission

Guidelines

A list of scientific sessions with their descriptions will be available below after the publication date specified in the General Information tab. The proposed conference sessions have mainly an interdisciplinary and cross-cutting character.
The time tables for session slots (1 time slot = 105 min, default: max. 7 talks with 13 min stage time, see guidelines below) assembled by the session conveners are listed below the descriptions. Most sessions with fewer than 5 presentations were combined in pairs in a time slot to reduce the number of parallel sessions. The list of posters can be found at the bottom of the page.

Note: Session time tables and contributions could change on demand and in justified cases until and throughout the conference week. We will keep this webpage updated. Use the browser search function "ctrl+f" (Windows) or "cmd+f" (MacOS) to rapidly search this website for your contribution. If you have any questions concerning your contribution, do not hesitate to contact us.

Presentation, Poster and FLEX Time guidelines

Oral presentations (talks) are 10 minutes in length plus 3 minutes for questions (13 min stage time each talk). Exceptions from this default are planned and coordinated by the conveners via direct contact with the relevant contributers. Please bring your presentation on a USB stick and in PPTX or PDF format. Keynote is not supported, please convert your presentation into the above-mentioned formats yourself. Keynote speakers will have different time frames, to be agreed upon individually.

Posters must not exceed the size 84 cm width and 119 cm height (~DIN A0 portrait, no landscape!). All poster presenters need to bring their poster printed. We don't have a printing service on-site. Posters will be up from Monday afternoon until Friday. Posters will be put up on site and removed only by the conference team. Please bring your poster Monday morning to the front desk.

FLEX time (incl. side meetings) during the conference are time slots on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday afternoon for individual open ad-hoc meetings for all sizes of groups. If you are part of a group of people which like to discuss about a specific topic, the FLEX time concept allows this during the conference and allows other participants to join. You can ‘register’ such a meeting by filling the open fields in an online spreadsheet or by contacting the front desk. The link will be sent to all participants before the conference.
FLEX time slots can be used for side meeting already planned in advance. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you need assistance.

We reserved in total 6 rooms of different capacities (10 to 295 seats) at 3 different buildings allowing meetings of each group size. Each room is equipped with video conference hardware to include online participants. Registering a FLEX time meeting is possible any time before the desired time slot online and during the conference by adding the requested information in the online spreadsheet. The conference front desk will assign the rooms and fix the slots. In general, keep the limited number of rooms in mind → first come, first serve! We can not realise more than 6 meetings at the same time. In case of overbooking, we will mark overbook-meetings in red in the spreadsheet and the convener needs to come to the front desk as soon as possible and we will try to find a solution in consultation with you. The spreadsheet will be also visible on screens during the week on site for all participants so that each participant can check it for planned meetings and decide to join a group. If you have difficulties to edit the spreadsheet online on site, please come to the front desk for assistance. Each meeting needs a convener / speaker who needs to give a brief summary (less than 5 min) on Friday in the plenary about the meeting. Here you can summarise the progress of the group or address open questions to all attendees.

List of Sessions

1. Arctic Interfaces: Leads, Ridges, and Fractures

This session explores the fundamental role of physical structures like leads, polynyas, pressure ridges, and fractures in shaping Arctic exchange processes. Leads and ridges are not only hotspots for energy, moisture, and chemical fluxes between the ocean, atmosphere, and ice, but they also affect brine rejection, snow loss, and ecosystem interactions across all scales. The session welcomes case studies on detection technologies, field campaigns, and innovative models that quantify small-scale heterogeneity and its large-scale impacts. Special focus will be placed on the influence of dynamic ice structures on heat transfer, nutrient cycling, and biological processes. Methodological advances such as high-resolution mapping, autonomous observing systems, and data assimilation will be discussed. Contributions detailing the impact of leads and ridges on Arctic climate sensitivity and ecological functioning are encouraged.

2. Arctic Amplification and Climate Feedbacks: Regional and Global Perspectives

Arctic Amplification profoundly modulates both local weather and the global climate system. This session invites contributions that investigate mechanisms driving the rapid warming, including surface albedo changes, heat fluxes, atmospheric stratification, and cloud-aerosol-radiation feedbacks. Researchers are encouraged to present new insights from observational campaigns, modeling efforts, and remote sensing platforms. Studies that examine the influence of oceanic and atmospheric teleconnections, as well as biogeochemical processes affecting amplification, are welcome. We invite work that assesses seasonal and multi-year variability, the influence of feedbacks on ecological and societal systems, and implications for sustainable adaptation strategies. Perspectives on links between Arctic change and lower latitude phenomena, such as the jet stream and weather extremes, will be highlighted.

3. Ocean Dynamics, Tracers, and Biogeochemical Cycles

This session focuses on advances in our understanding of circulation, mixing, and tracer transport within the Arctic Ocean. Research on the interplay between physical dynamics (e.g., currents, eddies), the movement of nutrients and contaminants, and the cycling of carbon and other key elements is central. Field and autonomous observations across scales are especially welcome, as are process-based and high-resolution numerical models. Presentations may include multi-tracer studies connecting spatial variability, ocean-atmosphere exchanges, and ecosystem productivity. Emphasis will be given to novel methodologies that integrate biological, chemical, and physical data, and to long-term monitoring programs that illuminate change in Arctic biogeochemistry. The session will foster discussion on linking local process understanding to regional and pan-Arctic perspectives.

4. Biodiversity, Species Distributions, and Ecological Networks

Changing physical conditions are reshaping patterns of biodiversity and ecological networks in the Arctic. We invite research that highlights shifts in species composition, functional and trophic dynamics, and resilience across marine, sea ice, and freshwater habitats. Innovative approaches to tracking community structure, migration, genetic diversity, and food-web connectivity are encouraged. The session also seeks studies investigating the response of Arctic biota to environmental stressors, including temperature, salinity, ice cover, and light regime changes. Integrative ecosystem models, genomic and physiological data, and cross-disciplinary collaborations that link biological findings to the broader Arctic system are of special interest. Case studies on adaptation and ecosystem services will provide context for regional management and conservation efforts.

5. Sunlight, Optical Properties, and Energy Budget

Solar radiation drives Arctic energy balance and ecological productivity, modulated by ever-evolving optical properties of snow, sea ice, and ocean. This session welcomes research on the measurement and modeling of albedo, light transmission, and scattering across interfaces. Studies may address seasonal and spatial variability, novel optical retrieval methods, radiative transfer in heterogeneous environments, and the impact of sediments and organic material on light availability. Connections between optical properties and melting, freeze-up, primary production, ecosystem functioning, and feedback to the climate system are central. The session will cover integration of satellite observations, ground-based and autonomous measurement networks, and advances in scaling local data to pan-Arctic perspectives.

6. Air-Ice-Ocean Coupling, Clouds, Moisture, and Precipitation

This session delves into the exchange processes linking atmosphere, sea ice, and ocean, with a particular focus on the roles of clouds, moisture transport, and precipitation across Arctic environments. Contributions should address boundary layer structure, cloud microphysics and dynamics, and the influence of atmospheric rivers and moisture intrusions on sea ice and snow processes. Research integrating observational, theoretical, and modeling approaches to precipitation (both snow and rain), and its impact on radiative balance, energy fluxes, and hydrological cycles is especially sought. Case studies on feedback mechanisms, cross-domain interactions, and implications for weather predictions and climate modeling are encouraged. Advances in measurement techniques, remote sensing of cloud and precipitation properties, and the integration of multi-disciplinary data will be featured.

7. Modeling Arctic Processes: Integrating Scales and Observations

Modeling the Arctic's complex systems requires careful integration of process-based knowledge, observations, and new computational methods. This session solicits advances in Arctic modeling across atmospheric, oceanic, cryospheric, and ecological domains. Topics include model development and parameterization, multi-scale and multi-process coupling, uncertainty quantification, and the use of machine learning. Presentations should demonstrate linkages between models and real-world observations, data assimilation, and new strategies for forecasting and scenario development. We invite contributions using major Arctic programs or other large-scale datasets to evaluate and improve predictive skill. Discussion will focus on balancing complexity with interpretability, building next-generation tools, and prioritizing key processes for improved regional and global projections.

8. Remote Sensing, Autonomous Technologies, and Polar Observing

The Arctic's vastness and inaccessibility demand innovative observation strategies. This session features advances in satellite remote sensing, sensor networks, unmanned platforms, and integrated observing systems. Presenters are encouraged to share new algorithms, calibration/validation approaches, and case studies linking remote measurements with in situ and airborne data. Contributions highlighting data assimilation techniques, technology-driven advances in spatial and temporal monitoring, and interoperability of multi-source datasets are welcome. The session will explore ways to improve long-term monitoring of key climate, cryosphere, ocean, and biosphere changes, and foster collaboration between technologists and scientists to address research priorities. This session also warmly welcomes contributions that explore the interconnectedness of the Arctic and Antarctic systems, fostering a comprehensive understanding of their linkages and mutual influences.

9. Societal Dimensions: Indigenous Knowledge, Collaboration, and Sustainable Arctic Futures

Transforming Arctic research requires robust engagement with societal perspectives, Indigenous knowledge, and sustainable development strategies. This session showcases collaborations between scientists, Indigenous communities, policymakers, and other stakeholders in shaping Arctic futures. Topics include best practices for knowledge co-production, data sovereignty, governance frameworks, community resilience, and adaptation pathways. Submissions focusing on cross-cultural partnerships, co-designed monitoring and research, and lessons from local experiences are encouraged. The session will highlight innovative models for integrating Indigenous knowledge into scientific practice, fostering equity and enduring solutions for environmental stewardship.

10. Communication, Education, and Capacity Building for Arctic (Polar) Science

Effective communication and capacity building are vital for advancing Arctic science and inspiring future generations. This session invites contributions on science outreach, educational curriculum development, and novel engagement strategies for diverse audiences. Case studies on media interaction, creative practices, intercultural knowledge exchange, and the integration of Arctic science into schools and universities are welcome. Focus will be placed on early-career researcher development, innovative educational technologies, and methods to strengthen scientific literacy and public understanding of Arctic change. The session will provide a space for sharing experiences, tools, and approaches that widen participation and support future leadership in Arctic research.

Early Career Researcher Session

Content and topics will be defined by ECRs (e.g., discussion about funding possibilities etc.). Ideas and contributions are welcome until the session will start during the conference week. Contact us via mail or at the front desk.

Registration

Please register before the conference. As soon as registration is open, you will find a link to the registration webpage (Helmholtz-hosted Events Management service) here.

Venue

The Arctic System Science Conference 2026 will take place on the Telegrafenberg campus in Potsdam, Germany (see map below).

The main venue is building H (green House H in the map) with the large plenary hall and 3 modular seminar rooms. The front desk will be located across from the plenary hall in the foyer of building H. Additional rooms for sessions, side meetings and flexible booking are located in the building A45N and A45S (light blue).
There is a regular bus service (line 691) starting at Potsdam main station and ending in front of the main entrance of building H. You need to buy a bus ticket to use it (e.g., directly from the bus driver with cash). The distance between Potsdam main station and building H are about 1.5 km (15 min) by walking.

Accommodation

Please book your hotel room individually and as early as possible. You don't have to wait until the registration/confirmation process is finished. Be aware of the hotel occupancy rate during spring time in Potsdam. We have no contingents for our conference. Furthermore, please check carefully the possibility of short-term cancellation to avoid unnecessary costs. Another possibility is to stay in Berlin (best near the train stations: Hauptbahnhof, Zoologischer Garten and Charlottenburg). Traveling from Berlin to Potsdam every day takes some time, but there are several trains going regularly.

Food & Beverage

9 Coffee breaks with snacks, 1 evening snack and 1 social dinner are planned and included in the conference fee. With the exception of dinner, all activities will take place on the Telegrafenberg. The 5 lunches will be provided in the local canteen (building H) and need to be payed individually on site. 15 € per day are more than enough for the most expensive meal, a bottle of soft drink, a desert and 1 ice cream portion. There is every day another selection of vegan, vegetarian and meat including meals published at the beginning of the week here: Weekly Meals.

Please note: Payment in the canteen is only possible with EC, debit, and credit cards or digital services such as Apple Pay. Cash is not accepted.