Photo: Stella Papadopoulou

"Understanding environmental problems, in their complexity, is essential for identifying possible solutions for a more sustainable future," said Anna Sobek, Professor and Department Head. She emphasized the importance of engaging young minds through events like ForskarFredag, stating, "ForskarFredag provides a great opportunity for us to reach out to young people, to catch their interest, and inspire them to learn more about what we do, our research and our education programs  as well as how we can contribute to a brighter future through knowledge."

Collaborative climate research on display

In collaboration with the Bolin Center for Climate Research and the Department of Meteorology (MISU), expedition participants from both departments will present the AoM project showcasing videos, research equipment, and opportunities to engage directly with the public about their experiences in the Arctic.

The focus of AoM expedition aboard the Swedish icebreaker Oden that took place in 2023 was to research the annual onset of sea-ice melt, with particular attention to the role of "atmospheric rivers" in this process. Conducting research above 80 degrees north comes with unique challenges, from extreme temperatures to encounters with wildlife like polar bears. These harsh conditions make Arctic expeditions not only exciting but also crucial for collecting valuable climate data.

Expert talks on rapid warming and geoengineering

Two experts from the Department of Environmental Science will hold talks on climate-related topics that are highly relevant to public discourse. Associate Professor Paul Glantz, an expert on greenhouse gases, will discuss the alarming trend of rapid global warming observed over the past two years, sharing insights on what it could mean for the future. Glantz values these opportunities to connect with the public, noting, "ForskarFredag is an important and lively meeting place where students have the opportunity to meet researchers and take part in current research. I feel that my meetings with the public often straighten out questions that arise in connection with climate change and that stimulates interest for both the students and myself."

Professor Kevin Noone, a multidisciplinary environmental scientist, will give a talk titled "Geoengineering: a bad idea whose time is up." His session will explore the various measures proposed under geoengineering and the potential impacts these interventions could have on the planet. Both talks will be held in Swedish. 

About ForskarFredag 

ForskarFredag, the Swedish edition of the European Researchers' Night, offers a rare chance for the public to meet and engage with scientists. The event allows researchers, who are often consumed by their fieldwork and data analysis, to share their work and its significance with a broader audience. European Researchers' Night was launched by the European Commission in 2005 and has since expanded to 25 participating countries. Each year, it reaches around 2 million people across Europe, with over 36,000 researchers taking part. In Sweden, ForskarFredag has been organized annually since 2006 by Vetenskap & Allmänhet.

ForskarFredag 2024 will take place from September 23 to September 28, with the main events occurring on Friday, September 27, 2024. Activities will be held at various locations across Sweden, offering participants the chance to engage with researchers through interactive exhibits, talks, and hands-on experiments. This annual event offers a glimpse into the fascinating world of science, making it as exciting for the researchers as it is for the participants.

In Stockholm, ForskarFredag will take place at the AlbaNova University Center of KTH Royal Institute of Technology, where most events will be held between 9:00am and 4:00pm on September 27. 

We hope to see you there!

More about the European Researchers' Night

More about Forskarfredag

Text: Allister Carter