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 12, 2025 | Announcement, Research, SANAP, SCAR, Science
Recognising Excellence in Antarctic Research and Service
The Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) plays a pivotal role in advancing knowledge of the Antarctic and Southern Ocean. A cornerstone of this mission is the recognition of excellence — celebrating researchers and contributors whose work and service embody the spirit of international cooperation and scientific discovery in the Antarctic community.
Honouring Outstanding Contributions
To highlight and reward those who exemplify the best of the Antarctic community, SCAR established a series of prestigious medals. These awards celebrate both scientific achievement and dedicated service, serving as an inspiration for the next generation of polar researchers.
Since their inception in 2006, SCAR has awarded:
In 2018, SCAR introduced a third category:
Each of these medals is awarded through a peer-nominated process, ensuring fairness, transparency, and the recognition of true merit. Recipients are selected by an expert committee based on their outstanding contributions to Antarctic research, collaboration, or education and outreach.
The President’s Medal for Outstanding Achievement
In addition to the main medals, SCAR also awards the President’s Medal for Outstanding Achievement. This distinguished honour is presented by the outgoing SCAR President to an individual who has made exceptional contributions to SCAR and the wider Antarctic community during their term.
Call for Nominations — 2026 SCAR Medals
Nominations for the 2026 SCAR Medals are now open!
🗓️ Initial nominations close on 22 March 2026.
This is a unique opportunity to recognise peers who have made remarkable contributions to Antarctic science, coordination, or communication.
For detailed information on the award criteria and selection process, please visit SCAR’s Detailed Information page.
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 | Oct 15, 2025 | Announcement, Gough Island, Humanities, SANAP
After more than a year on the remote and rugged shores of Gough Island, the Gough 70 Overwintering Team has safely arrived back in Cape Town today — marking the end of another remarkable chapter in South Africa’s contribution to global environmental and climate research.
The team has spent the past year maintaining and operating the South African weather and research station on Gough Island, one of the most isolated and scientifically significant islands in the South Atlantic Ocean. Their work forms a vital part of the South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP), contributing to international understanding of climate systems, ocean–atmosphere interactions, and biodiversity conservation in one of the world’s most pristine environments. Throughout their 13-month stay, the Gough 70 team challenged weather conditions, isolation, and logistical difficulties — yet continued to deliver crucial meteorological observations and research support. Their dedication and resilience embody the true spirit of the SANAP community.
We extend a heartfelt welcome home to each member of the team and express our thanks for their commitment and hard work. Their efforts not only uphold South Africa’s legacy of excellence in polar and sub-Antarctic research but also ensure that critical data continues to support global scientific collaboration. (above taken when arriving at Gough Island in 2024)
As the team reunites with family and friends, the Gough 71 Overwintering Team now takes up the baton, continuing the mission on the island for the year ahead.
Welcome back, Gough 70 — and thank you for your service and passion for discovery in one of the most remote corners of the world.
— The SANAP Community
by Ria Olivier | Sep 25, 2025 | Announcement, Jobs, Marion Island, News, Overwintering Team, Research, SANAP, Science, Southern Ocean, Stations, sub-Antarctic, Team member
The following positions are available on the sub-Antarctic, Marion Island for the overwintering period (April 2026 to May 2027)
Environmental Officer Assistant Environmental Officer
Communications Engineer Diesel Mechanic Electrical Engineer Medical Orderly
Senior Meteorological Technician Assistant Meteorological Technician
Closing Date: 06 OCTOBER
The incumbent will execute duties at a Sub/Antarctic Base and adhere to the health, safety and environmental requirements. The successful applicant will spend a full year (April 2026 to May 2027) at Marion Island. There is no option to return to South Africa before May 2027. The ability to work and live with small groups of people is thus essential. Although the base is well-equipped with e-mail, fax and satellite telephone facilities, the applicant must be self-sufficient and self-motivated.
Click here: View all positions
by Ria Olivier | Aug 25, 2025 | Research, SANAP, South Atlantic, Southern Ocean
Pelagic High Seas Ocean Ecoregionalisation of the Indian Subantarctic (PHOCIS) will be holding a workshop in Cape Town, South Africa, 25 – 29 August 2025. The main objectives for the Cape Town workshop will be for participants to present and discuss progress on all PHOCIS work packages, but in particular to advance WP4 on Integrated Ocean Management (this study), and WP5 on Research and Monitoring.
The PHOCIS project, “Pelagic High Seas Ocean Ecoregionalisation of the Indian Subantarctic,” is
a scientific initiative focused on dividing the open ocean waters around the Indian subantarctic
region into distinct ecological zones based on their unique marine life and environmental
conditions, with the primary goal of identifying and protecting critical conservation areas within
the subantarctic high seas. The integrated ocean management process will encompass the high
seas within 20°E to 150°E and from 40°S to 60°S. Most of the western area falls within the
CCAMLR boundary whereas the eastern area is outside the CCAMLR boundary.
The main objectives for the Cape Town workshop will be for participants to present and discuss
progress on all PHOCIS work packages, but in particular to advance WP4 on Integrated Ocean
Management, and WP5 on Research and Monitoring. Reports generated will be presented to
CCAMLR via the Scientific Committee and its Working Groups.
PHOCIS is structured into 6 WPs (Work Packages), which are further subdivided into sub-WPs:
WP1 Pelagic ecoregionalisation
WP1.1 Geography
WP1.2 Pelagic oceanographic regions
WP1.3 Plankton and pelagic fish spatial distributions
WP1.4 Seabird and marine mammal distributions
WP1.5 Pelagic ecoregionalisation synthesis
WP2 Connectivity between ecoregions
WP3 Historical and forecasting trends
WP4 Integrated Ocean Management
WP4.1 List of conservation objectives
WP4.2 Human impacts
WP4.3 Systematic Conservation Planning
WP4.4 Legal framework
WP5 Research and Monitoring
WP6 Education and knowledge dissemination
Since its inception meeting in 2019 in Cape Town, PHOCIS has been holding workshops on an
annual basis, either online, in-person, or hybrid.
For more info, contact:
Azwianewi Makhado (amakhado@dffe.gov.za) or
Philippe Koubbi (philippe.koubbi@sorbonne-universite.fr)
Honouring Outstanding Contributions
After more than a year on the remote and rugged shores of Gough Island, the Gough 70 Overwintering Team has safely arrived back in Cape Town today — marking the end of another remarkable chapter in South Africa’s contribution to global environmental and climate research.
The team has spent the past year maintaining and operating the South African weather and research station on Gough Island, one of the most isolated and scientifically significant islands in the South Atlantic Ocean. Their work forms a vital part of the South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP), contributing to international understanding of climate systems, ocean–atmosphere interactions, and biodiversity conservation in one of the world’s most pristine environments. Throughout their 13-month stay, the Gough 70 team challenged weather conditions, isolation, and logistical difficulties — yet continued to deliver crucial meteorological observations and research support. Their dedication and resilience embody the true spirit of the SANAP community.
We extend a heartfelt welcome home to each member of the team and express our thanks for their commitment and hard work. Their efforts not only uphold South Africa’s legacy of excellence in polar and sub-Antarctic research but also ensure that critical data continues to support global scientific collaboration. (above taken when arriving at Gough Island in 2024)
The PHOCIS project, “Pelagic High Seas Ocean Ecoregionalisation of the Indian Subantarctic,” is
