Memorial University, in partnership with UiT The Arctic University of Norway and UArctic, is inviting expressions of interest from students across the Canadian Membership for the One Ocean Expedition. The Expedition involves a great opportunity to be part of an interdisciplinary team learning ocean research, gaining valuable sailing experience, and completing an Arctic-focused, credit course. This unique opportunity has been designed primarily for Masters’ students or Doctoral candidates aspiring to become key Arctic researchers. Applicants from Northern regions and Indigenous communities are strongly encouraged to apply, even if at the undergraduate level. Preference may be given to candidates from these backgrounds to support diverse representation and perspectives in Arctic research. Contingent on available funding, up to 16 students will be selected from Canada.  

Submit your interest ASAP! 
Interest Form Due: March 11, 2025 

Interested?  What to do next: 

  • If you are a student, let your faculty supervisor and/or professor know you are interested. They can reach out to Lisa Goulet (UArctic Membership Engagement Coordinator) at Memorial University's Harris Centre for more details and to confirm eligibility. 
  • If you are a staff or faculty member and have students who are interested, you are encouraged to contact Lisa Goulet for the available supports to help your students with this experience.
  • In the meantime, students can fill out this short Interest Form.
  • Attend the Mandatory Information Session: March 12th, 2025 at 1:30 PM NST  

About the Course 

This interdisciplinary program explores the future of the Arctic through futures-thinking, peer collaboration, and the development of sustainable solutions to Arctic challenges (course credit subject to institutional approval). The Arctic Future Pathfinders course will be delivered aboard the Norwegian tall ship Statsraad Lehmkuhl as it journeys through the Northwest Passage. Students must indicate their preferred leg of the expedition: 

  • Leg 1: Nuuk, Greenland to Cambridge Bay, Canada (Approx. August 5 – August 29, 2025 exact dates TBD) 
  • Leg 2: Cambridge Bay, Canada to Anchorage, US (Approx. September 2 – October 4, 2025 exact dates TBD) 

What’s Required 

  • Travel, food, and course participation costs will be covered. 
  • Students are responsible for obtaining necessary visas (Greenland and USA), additional insurance, and personal equipment (see FAQ for details). 
  • A medical certificate from a certified seafarer’s doctor is required. 

Onboard Experience 

  • Living arrangements: Communal living with all participants sleeping in hammocks in a shared space. 
  • Daily routine: Physical work, watch duties, and active participation in sailing operations. 
  • Limited resources: Water use is restricted; showers will be brief. Sleep averages 7 hours per night. 
  • Connectivity: Internet and mobile access intermittently available - may be unavailable for extensive periods. 
  • Sea conditions: Seasickness is possible; students should prepare accordingly. 
  • Learning environment: Hands-on research and outreach activities in a collaborative setting. 

For full details, including required equipment, refer to the FAQ or visit https://www.mun.ca/uarctic/about/one-ocean-expedition/ 

This is a very challenging but rewarding opportunity to contribute to Arctic research while embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime expedition!  

Important Notice: Expedition participation is subject to securing the necessary permits and approvals. The university reserves the right to modify or cancel if needed.