Polar Scientific Diving

This program is aimed to train scientific divers to develop skills and knowledge for working on research projects carried out in polar conditions. Training includes exposure management, moving and transport on ice and snow, location preparation, planning and carrying out under ice diving operations.

February 21th - March 2th 2026, Kilpisjärvi Biological Station. 

The program will be based at Kilpisjärvi Biological Station in Arctic Northern Finland with diving carried out in the ice-covered lake directly in front.
Core modules and content:

The course covers the following areas:

  • Polar environment exposure management
  • Snow and ice logistics
  • Snow mobile use (driving, towing sleds and basic care/maintenance)
  • Establishment of dive site, ice holes, shelter, ladders and other equipment
  • Risk management for under ice diving
  • Under ice and cold water diving protocols
  • Twin cylinder equipment, protocols and practical use
  • Scientific techniques for under ice environment research
  • Supervision and planning of under ice operations
Course prerequisites:
  • 18 years old
  • Advanced Open Water / CMAS 2* or equivalent, 
  • 30 Logged Dives
  • Drysuit/ Cold Water Experience
  • One of the following: Scientific Dive qualification / Bachelor Degree (or enrolled) in a relevant field  / Involvement in scientific organisation
  • Twin cylinder training or experience recommended prior to attending
Trainers

Edd Stockdale, Finnish Scientific Diving Academy Coordinator

Erik Wurz, Finnish Scientific Diving Academy Coordinator
Prices for 2026

The cost for the program (2000€) covers all training, diving activities, twin cylinders and setups and specialist equipment used on program. 

Storage boxes and ice transport equipment will also be supplied.
Accommodation Package

As the Kilpisjärvi station is in a remote area, accommodation and food will be organised in a package on site.

Full package includes: Twin shared accommodation , Feb 21st Dinner, Feb 22nd- March 1st  Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, March 2nd Breakfast 

Other meals can be booked around this according to travel plans.

Price for participants of the program are based on the KBS pricing for external researchers and will be finalized when the University updates the 2026 pricing. 

This will be paid directly to the Kilpisjärvi Biological Station at end of program by credit card

Students from University of Helsinki and other universities have special pricing options for this package.

There are buses from Tromsø, Kittila and  Rovaniemi direct to the research station. Car pooling can also be arranged between participants.