NEWS Researchers at ͯÑÕÊÓƵ are playing an active role in shaping Arctic research and collaboration through UArctic’s thematic networks, a key international platform that connects expertise across disciplines and regions.
We see great potential for even more researchers at Umeå University to engage in and benefit from these networks.
These networks often function as small international research platforms, where collaborations, projects and ideas begin to take shape. This often happens long before they develop into larger funded initiatives.
With more than 60 thematic networks covering areas from climate and biodiversity to culture, health and governance, UArctic provides a structure for collaboration that is presented annually through the Year in Review publications.
The reports highlight how research communities contribute to Arctic knowledge. They also show that Umeå University is not only participating but, in several cases, helping to lead and develop these efforts.
Umeå University researchers are engaged in a wide range of thematic networks spanning the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities.
In the Thematic Network on Northern Tourism, Umeå University is a key contributor, building on a strong research tradition while continuing to shape the field of Arctic tourism. Today, researchers from Umeå play an active role in advancing both knowledge development and international collaboration within the network.
Umeå is also strongly represented in the Arctic Sustainable Arts and Design (ASAD) network. Professor Cindy Kohtala, based at Umeå Institute of Design, serves as Vice-Lead of the network. The Institute will host an international workshop in 2026, further strengthening Umeå’s role as a hub for design and sustainability in Arctic contexts.
Beyond these examples, researchers from Umeå University contribute to networks such as Critical Arctic Studies, Herbivory, Health and Well-being in the Arctic, and several others, reflecting the breadth of Arctic-related research at the university.
Umeå University also plays a unique role in supporting and shaping Arctic research more broadly through the Thematic Network on Polar Research Analytics, which is led by researchers at the university.
Through bibliometric analysis, we can better understand how Arctic research is evolving, where collaborations are emerging, and how knowledge flows across regions and disciplines.
The network is led by Professor Rickard Danell and Associate Professor Lena Maria Nilsson, with Arctic Centre Director Keith Larson serving as UArctic’s Associate Vice-President for Polar Research Analytics. Together, they contribute to mapping and analysing global Arctic research trends. This work provides a broader perspective on how Arctic research develops globally.
“Through bibliometric analysis, we can better understand how Arctic research is evolving, where collaborations are emerging, and how knowledge flows across regions and disciplines,” says Keith Larson. “This helps strengthen both individual research efforts and the collective impact of Arctic research.”
It also provides valuable insights for researchers, institutions and policymakers, and supports the continued development of UArctic’s thematic networks.
UArctic’s thematic networks offer Umeå University researchers opportunities to engage in international collaboration, develop new research initiatives, and increase the visibility of their work.
The networks connect researchers globally, with activities and collaborations spanning Arctic regions as well as institutions around the world.
Participating in a thematic network creates opportunities not only for collaboration, but also for making research more visible and relevant.
Within the networks, researchers organise workshops and conferences, develop joint publications, run field courses and initiate collaborative research projects across institutions.
The recent Year in Review initiative also illustrates the growing importance of communicating research activities and outcomes within these networks.
“Participating in a thematic network creates opportunities not only for collaboration, but also for making research more visible and relevant,” says Professor Cindy Kohtala. “Working together across different contexts, including through bioregional perspectives, helps us better understand and develop the sustainability potential of art and design research and practice.”
Researchers at Umeå University interested in joining a thematic network or learning more about ongoing activities are encouraged to explore UArctic’s network structure or contact the Arctic Centre.
“From the perspective of the Arctic Centre, we see great potential for even more researchers at Umeå University to engage in and benefit from these networks,” says Simon Oja, Deputy Director, Arctic Centre. “Strengthening participation will not only support individual research, but also enhance Umeå University’s overall contribution to Arctic knowledge and collaboration.”
