by Ria Olivier | Dec 3, 2025 | geochemistry, Oceanography, Research, SANAP, SANAP Student, Science, Southern Ocean
The South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP) is proud to highlight the successful hosting of the 4th GEOTRACES Summer School, held in Cape Town, South Africa, from 17–21 November 2025. This prestigious international training event brought together 35 students and 19 GEOTRACES scientists from across the globe, reinforcing the importance of collaboration in advancing oceanographic and trace metal research. Supported by the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) and the Scientific Committee on Oceanic Research (SCOR), the summer school served as an essential platform for equipping PhD candidates and early career researchers with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the biogeochemical cycles of trace metals in the world’s oceans. These cycles play a crucial role in regulating marine ecosystems, influencing climate processes, and shaping global biogeochemical dynamics.
Building Global Connections and Sharing Knowledge – A central goal of the GEOTRACES Summer School is to foster meaningful collaboration and knowledge exchange among emerging scientists. Participants were assigned to diverse working groups intended to strengthen networking, encourage interdisciplinary thinking, and build long-term scientific partnerships. These groups formed the basis of practical activities, poster sessions, and the week’s learning programme.
Prizewinners above with organising committee: l-r Thomas Ryan-Keogh, Hélène Planquette, Ruth Hawley, University Southampton (UK), CJ Denault, University of Minnesota (USA), Michael Julian Haryanto, University of Toyama (Japan), Ryan Cloete, Susanne Fietz. The organising committee—Hélène Planquette (CNRS), Susanne Fietz (Stellenbosch University), Thomas Ryan-Keogh (National Oceanography Centre), and Ryan Cloete (Stellenbosch University)—curated an intensive and enriching schedule combining expert lectures with hands-on training.
Insightful Lectures – Participants were privileged to learn from internationally recognised researchers who shared their expertise across a wide range of GEOTRACES-relevant themes, including sampling techniques, trace element isotopes, atmospheric processes, paleoceanography, modelling, and science communication. Lecture Programme Highlights:
- Greg Cutter (Old Dominion University): Planning and executing a GEOTRACES cruise
- Rob Middag (NIOZ; University of Groningen): Trace metal clean sampling and analysis – past and present approaches
- Hélène Planquette (CNRS): Intercalibration
- Jessica Fitzsimmons (Texas A&M University): Physicochemical speciation and its role in oceanic metal sinks
- Alessandro Tagliabue (University of Liverpool): Predicting climate-change impacts on trace element and isotope (TEI) cycles for IPCC assessments
- Adi Torfstein (Hebrew University of Jerusalem): Trace element particulate fluxes in the ocean
- William (Bill) Landing (Florida State University): Atmospheric deposition of trace elements and their biogeochemical impact
- Tim Conway (University of South Florida): Iron isotopes
- Taryn Noble (University of Tasmania): Paleoceanography
- Rhiannon Jones (British Antarctic Survey): Sediments as sources and sinks of trace elements
- Zhouling Zhang (GEOMAR): Non-traditional stable isotopes in biogeochemical research
- Lise Artigue (University of Perpignan): Multi-tracer approaches combined with hydrodynamics, modelling, and microbiology
- Thomas Ryan-Keogh (National Oceanography Centre): Conducting nutrient-addition (“bioassay”) experiments at sea
- Mak Saito (Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution): Metals in biology and biochemistry
- Ria Olivier (Antarctic Legacy of South Africa): Science outreach, awareness, and the role of transdisciplinarity in communication
Hands-On Practical Training – To complement the lecture series, participants engaged in practical sessions that exposed them to key tools, datasets, and analytical techniques used in trace metal research. These sessions helped early career scientists understand how their work integrates into the broader international GEOTRACES community, building confidence for future participation in global research initiatives. Training included:
- Data crunching and processing
- Paleoceanographic exercises
- IPCC-style assessment activities
- Integrating complementary oceanographic datasets
- SeaFAST and MC-ICP-MS laboratory techniques
- GoFlo sampling methods
- Autonomous platform technologies
Sincere appreciation to the sponsors of the 4th GEOTRACES Summer School:
- French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS)
- French Embassy in South Africa, Lesotho, and Malawi
- Scientific Committee on Oceanic Research (SCOR)
We also acknowledge and thank the following South African partners and supporters, their collective support played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of this global training event.
- Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI)
- National Research Foundation (NRF)
- Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE)
- South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP)
- Stellenbosch University (SUN)
- Sea Technology Services (STS)
- Antarctic Legacy of South Africa (ALSA)
Strengthening the Future of Trace Metal and Antarctic Research – The 4th GEOTRACES Summer School has once again demonstrated the power of international collaboration in addressing complex marine and climate challenges. By building capacity among early career scientists and connecting them with leading experts, this event helps ensure that the next generation is well equipped to contribute to cutting-edge oceanographic research—both within South Africa and across the world. SANAP is proud to have been part of such an impactful scientific gathering and remains committed to supporting global research that enhances understanding of our oceans and the polar regions.
Fun during Science Communication session with adding fingerprints to an Antarctica Map
by Ria Olivier | Nov 25, 2025 | Research, SANAP, SANAP Student, Science
16–19 November | Kwalata Game Lodge, North West Province
The 7th South Africa National Antarctic Programme (SANAP) Research Symposium brought together the nation’s polar research community for four days of learning, connection and inspiration. Hosted and organised by Prof Bettine van Vuuren (University of Johannesburg), Prof Werner Nel (Fort Hare University) and Dr Liezel Rudolph (University of Free State) this year’s gathering took place at the Kwalata Game Lodge, offering a truly South African setting for discussions focused on some of the planet’s coldest and most remote regions.
Inspiring Informal Talks – Two invited talks set the tone for an engaging and reflective symposium: David Hedding shared insights from the Prince Edward Island Expedition 2023, taking attendees into the rugged and scientifically rich sub-Antarctic. Pete Convey delivered a heartfelt reflection on “How did that happen? Four decades as a cold ecologist”, offering wisdom accumulated over a remarkable career in polar science.
Research Sessions: Advancing Polar Knowledge. Across multiple sessions, principal investigators presented updates on SANAP-supported research, revealing the depth and breadth of South Africa’s contribution to Southern Ocean and Antarctic science.
- Sub-Antarctic & Marion Island Research
- Saving Marion Island’s seabirds – Mouse-Free Marion Project
- Marion Island mouSe Ecology (MISE)
- Impact of mouse eradication on the Marion Island bird community
- Climate change impacts on Southern Ocean seabirds
- DFFE Top Predator Research
- Top predator ecology and ecosystem connections
- Southern Ocean Biogeochemistry & Climate
- Southern Ocean Carbon-Heat Nexus: Mixed-layer processes and climate feedbacks
- Micronutrient and pollutant trace elements at the air–sea interface
- Decoding the mercury cycle through in situ observations and modelling
- ECOSOPHY: Emergent constraints on Southern Ocean phytoplankton
- The biological carbon pump in a changing Southern Ocean
- Atmosphere, Space & Geophysics
- SuperDARN radar advances
- Polar space weather studies
- Mechanical and physical properties of Antarctic sea ice
- Antarctic Marginal Ice Zone (MIZ) and seasonal variability
- SAMOC and ACC long-term monitoring
- Structural glaciology of the north-western Antarctic ice shelves (SANAS)
- Provenance & paleomagnetics of Grunehogna Craton rocks
- Ecology, Genomics & Humanity in the Polar Regions
- Ecogenomics developments
- Modelling wind patterns and ecological impacts
- Landscape–climate interactions in the sub-Antarctic
- Whale Unit research updates
- The Marion Island Hut Book Project
- Antarctic Legacy of South Africa (ALSA)
- South African Antarctic Artists & Writers Programme
- Vessels and Biosecurity & Infrastructure
- SA Agulhas II – Flagship for Vessel (4.0), Part II
- Safeguarding biodiversity through SANAP biosecurity practices
Strategic Vision for the Future: The final day concluded with two forward-looking presentations and it emphasized SANAP’s growing impact on national priorities, global science, and South Africa’s leadership in polar stewardship.
- Dr Gilbert Siko: Antarctic and Southern Ocean Research – The Contribution to Innovation & Socio-Economic Development in South Africa
- Tracy Klarenbeek: Marine and Antarctic Research Strategy 2026–2036: Southern Ocean and Antarctic Research Plan
Building Community – Mentorship, Fun & Shared Moments. Beyond the science, the symposium celebrated community:
- A fun-filled evening hosted by APECSSA brought mentors and mentees together for quiz challenges and bingo, strengthening networks across generations.
- Mealtimes—shared breakfasts, lunches and dinners—provided space for collaboration and new friendships.
- Participants enjoyed the quiet beauty of Kwalata with game drives, wildlife sightings, and peaceful bushveld walks.
Here, beneath the wide African sky, researchers working from the Southernmost ice to Africa’s beating heart gathered to exchange knowledge, protect ecosystems, and shape a collective future for polar science.
A heartfelt thank you goes to the 7th SANAP Research Symposium Organising Committee for creating an inspiring, seamless and memorable gathering.
The 2026 symposium once again reflected SANAP’s strength: a passionate, collaborative community committed to understanding and safeguarding the Antarctic, Southern Ocean and sub-Antarctic regions—regions crucial to the wellbeing of our planet.
Until next time, we continue the work, inspired and united.
Group photo: Annette Ford
by Ria Olivier | Nov 11, 2025 | Announcement, Research, SANAP, SANAP Student, Science
At the edge of the Earth lies a mirror of our planet — a place where ice tells the story of climate, oceans, and life itself. The South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP) stands at the forefront of exploring and protecting this frozen world.
This November, the SANAP research community will gather once again for the 7th SANAP Symposium, a meeting of minds, science, and purpose.
Dates: 16–19 November 2025
Venue: Kwalata Game Reserve, South Africa
The Symposium brings together researchers, students, policymakers, and environmental stewards from across disciplines to share discoveries from the Antarctic and Southern Ocean, and to reflect on how they shape our understanding of global change.
From the southernmost ice sheets to Africa’s beating heart, SANAP researchers explore the connections that link polar science to climate, ecosystems, and society. The Symposium offers a unique opportunity to discuss new research, inspire collaboration, and strengthen the community committed to safeguarding the world’s most remote environments.
Join the conversation, connect with fellow explorers of knowledge, and be part of shaping a sustainable polar future.
More information click here
by Ria Olivier | Feb 3, 2025 | Announcement, Geomorphology, Important Dates, Research, SANAP, SANAP Student, Science
The International Conference on Geomorphology (ICG) 2025 is set to take place in breathtaking New Zealand, a land renowned for its dynamic landscapes and geological wonders. This global gathering of geomorphologists will provide a platform for cutting-edge discussions on landform processes, climate interactions, and Earth surface dynamics. We invite researchers, early-career scientists, and professionals to contribute to this exciting event by submitting abstracts to the special session:
Geomorphological Insights from the Sub-Antarctic
Description: Sub-Antarctic islands, situated in the remote Southern Ocean, offer a unique geomorphological perspective due to their distinct geographical setting. These cold islands, characterized by both glacial and periglacial processes, provide crucial insights into the historical and ongoing changes in oceanic and atmospheric circulation patterns within the southern hemisphere mid-latitudes. Unlike their northern hemisphere counterparts, these islands experienced a different Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) and complex deglaciation, leading to unique geomorphological features and processes. The landforms of these islands serve as invaluable proxies for understanding landscape responses to climate change. Palaeo-climatic shifts have profoundly influenced geomorphological and cryogenic dynamics, shaping landforms and influencing ecosystem processes. Contemporary climatic changes, such as rising temperatures, moisture fluctuations, and increased frequency of extreme events, pose significant threats to these delicate geomorphological systems. These changes have the potential to push landscape and ecosystem processes beyond their existing environmental thresholds, impacting landforms and biodiversity. This session aims to explore the geomorphological significance of Sub-Antarctic islands and their role as indicators of environmental change. We invite contributions that highlight the geomorphological processes and dynamics that shape the landscape of these Sub- Antarctic Islands. Research focusing on the region’s geomorphological responses to past and present climatic conditions and the possible implications for ecosystem processes are particularly welcome. Emerging researchers are encouraged to submit their work to advance our understanding of these critical sentinel landscapes.
Who Should Submit?
We strongly encourage early-career researchers, postgraduate students, and experienced scientists to contribute their work. This is an excellent opportunity to showcase your research to an international audience, gain valuable feedback, and network with leading experts in the field.
Abstract Submission Deadline: 31 May 2025!!
Don’t miss your chance to be part of ICG 2025 and contribute to this vital discussion on the evolving landscapes of the Sub-Antarctic.
Message from Prof Werner Nel:
“Dear Friends and Colleagues, We are putting a session together for the International Conference on Geomorphology that will be held in Christchurch in February 2026. As you can see the session description is very open, so we can really put a nice diverse session together. We would like to ask you to consider submitting an abstract to the session.
Hope to see you there. All the best.” Werner Nel
by Ria Olivier | Oct 10, 2024 | Announcement, Antarctica, Arts, Humanities, Research, SANAP, SANAP Student
South Africa has long had an Antarctic research programme, including a base on the Antarctic continent and a polar vessel. It is the only African country with these facilities and uniquely an early signatory to the Antarctic Treaty System which governs the southern continent. Other countries with Antarctic science programmes—including the US, Australia, and the UK—have Artists and Writers Programmes (AWPs) which include artists, writers and scholars in their scientific programmes. We are piloting a similar programme for South Africa.
The project works together with scientific research but is focused on approaching the relationship between Africa and Antarctica from a different lens: creative, critical, historical, futurist; focused on questions of aesthetics, ethics, value, storytelling; and with the explicit intention to transform Antarctic participation in relation to race, class and gender.
This project aims to plan and pilot a South African Antarctic Artists and Writers Programme (AWP), and in so doing to improve public engagement with South African Antarctic involvement through arts production and humanities research. Arts production will be supported by giving artists and writers a formal structure through which access the Antarctic and subantarctic regions, through exhibitions of their work, and through promotion by public events, publication and/or online platforms. Humanities research will provide the context, background, and cultural histories to develop and deepen both arts production and public engagement
Disciplines include: English, Fine Art, Creative Writing, History, Geography, Psychology, Anthropology, Science Communication, Journalism, Media Studies, Music, Dramatic Arts, and related disciplines.
Residency call 2024-2025
Calling artists and writers for a residency on, or about, the sea. The residency offers a 1-3 month immersive experience spending time at sea on a research vessel (the S.A. Agulhas II) or in a polar science lab, with a view to producing an artwork or publication. This residency is part of a pilot project that aims to bring Antarctica, the sub-Antarctic Islands and the Southern Ocean closer to a South African audience through the production of creative works.
FULL DETAILS
CLOSING DATE: 31 October 2024
by Ria Olivier | Oct 8, 2024 | Antarctica, Research, SANAP, SANAP Student, SCAR
A dive into the latest research and activities within the Scientific and Antarctic Research community during the biannual conference in Chile.
In today’s rapidly evolving scientific landscape, research conferences serve as vital hubs for knowledge exchange, fostering innovation, and building collaborations across disciplines. The recent SCAR conference held in Pucon, Chile during August brought together leading scholars and emerging researchers from around the globe. The event was packed with groundbreaking presentations, hands-on workshops, and insightful discussions that highlighted the latest trends shaping the future of research.
Here’s a closer look at the highlights and takeaways from this year’s conference. (above: Session on sub-Antarctic was an all South African session)
Plenary Lectures and Mini Symposia: The conference had a series of plenary lecture from some of the most respected minds in academia. Dr Victoria Nuviala from Madrid Institute for Advanced Study (MIAS), shared insights into An Architectural Biography of Antarctica. The reckoning: how #MeTooAntarctica is changing fieldwork a presentation by Dr Meredith Nash
Groundbreaking Research Papers. One of the conference’s core components was the presentation by researchers during the different parallel sessions. Each session provided opportunity for Q&A, enabling in-depth conversations between the audience and the researchers, fostering a true sense of intellectual community. South African researchers presented during these sessions. (above a few presenters captured during their present picture above: Session on sub-Antarctic was an all South African sessions)
Workshops. Experts from organizations guided participants through various disciplines. Ria Olivier held a workshop on publications in the Antarctica Community and resources on data management
Poster Sessions: Spotlight on Research in addition to formal presentations, these sessions provided a platform for researchers to showcase their work.
Networking and Collaboration. Beyond the formal sessions, the networking opportunities were an integral part of the conference. Through social events, coffee breaks, and an industry exhibition, participants had the chance to connect with peers, potential collaborators, and mentors.
NEXT SCAR in Norway in 2026! !
Conclusion – SCAR2024 was a celebration of innovation, collaboration, and cutting-edge research. It provided a rich platform for learning, networking, and exchanging ideas that will shape the future of research. For attendees, the event was not only an opportunity to showcase their work but also a reminder of the collaborative spirit that drives scientific progress. As we look forward to next conference, it’s clear that the future holds exciting developments in Antarctic Research, and conferences like this one will continue to play a crucial role in fostering those advancements.
Activities during SCAR2024
Oral & Poster Presentations
Prizewinners above with organising committee: l-r Thomas Ryan-Keogh, Hélène Planquette, Ruth Hawley, University Southampton (UK), CJ Denault, University of Minnesota (USA), Michael Julian Haryanto, University of Toyama (Japan), Ryan Cloete, Susanne Fietz. The organising committee—Hélène Planquette (CNRS), Susanne Fietz (Stellenbosch University), Thomas Ryan-Keogh (National Oceanography Centre), and Ryan Cloete (Stellenbosch University)—curated an intensive and enriching schedule combining expert lectures with hands-on training.
Insightful Lectures – Participants were privileged to learn from internationally recognised researchers who shared their expertise across a wide range of GEOTRACES-relevant themes, including sampling techniques, trace element isotopes, atmospheric processes, paleoceanography, modelling, and science communication. Lecture Programme Highlights:
Sincere appreciation to the sponsors of the 4th GEOTRACES Summer School:
Fun during Science Communication session with adding fingerprints to an Antarctica Map
The 7th South Africa National Antarctic Programme (SANAP) Research Symposium brought together the nation’s polar research community for four days of learning, connection and inspiration. Hosted and organised by Prof Bettine van Vuuren (University of Johannesburg), Prof Werner Nel (Fort Hare University) and Dr Liezel Rudolph (University of Free State) this year’s gathering took place at the Kwalata Game Lodge, offering a truly South African setting for discussions focused on some of the planet’s coldest and most remote regions.
The 
Who Should Submit?
Message from Prof Werner Nel:
South Africa has long had an 
The project works together with scientific research but is focused on approaching the relationship between Africa and Antarctica from a different lens: creative, critical, historical, futurist; focused on questions of aesthetics, ethics, value, storytelling; and with the explicit intention to transform Antarctic participation in relation to race, class and gender.
In today’s rapidly evolving scientific landscape, research conferences serve as vital hubs for knowledge exchange, fostering innovation, and building collaborations across disciplines. The recent SCAR conference held in Pucon, Chile during August brought together leading scholars and emerging researchers from around the globe. The event was packed with groundbreaking presentations, hands-on workshops, and insightful discussions that highlighted the latest trends shaping the future of research.
Here’s a closer look at the highlights and takeaways from this year’s conference. (above: Session on sub-Antarctic was an all South African session)
Networking and Collaboration. Beyond the formal sessions, the networking opportunities were an integral part of the conference. Through social events, coffee breaks, and an industry exhibition, participants had the chance to connect with peers, potential collaborators, and mentors.
