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The Norwegian Polar Institute (NPI) and University Centre in Svalbard (UNIS) offer access to a variety of services in Longyearbyen for visiting researchers.
Please note: Capacity is often limited, so all requests must be made well in advance (minimum 3-4 weeks). No support is guaranteed at short notice.
Some services are offered for free to SIOS members, but the majority have a cost which must be met by the user.
Storage (normal, cold and freezer) in Longyearbyen
NPI and UNIS offer access to short term storage of samples and equipment (including samples frozen at -80°). Request should be sent 3-4 weeks in advance, including information about the volume and weight of the package(s), storage requirements, time period of storage, and planned time of arrival/departure.
Laboratory
UNIS offer access to laboratories for visiting researchers. For more information about the laboratories available and HSE procedures, visit the UNIS laboratory website.
Workshop
NPI and UNIS share a workshop space in the Science Centre which may be available for short term use for visiting researchers.
Field equipment
Both NPI and UNIS can offer access to field equipment, including snowmobiles, clothing, safety equipment and communications equipment.
Weapons for polar bear protection are only offered by UNIS to those that have been on a UNIS safety course within the last six months and can show us a valid "Certificate of good conduct" or weapons license. For full details, refer to the UNIS Firearms Policy.
For more information, visit the NPI and UNIS websites.
Safety and field training
See page "Arctic Field Safety"
Guest office in Longyearbyen
SIOS can offer visiting members access to a guest office in Svalbard Science Centre. The office is located in the SIOS Knowledge Centre and there is access to the UNIS guest WiFi and EduRoam. You need to bring your own laptop and the offer is subject to availability. If you would like to take advantage of this offer, please contact SIOS-KC with the time period of your visit.
