PROJECTS FUNDED IN 2024
ARIMETH: A mechanistic understanding of Arctic river methane emissions
ERC Starting Grant: SEK 21 897 980 | Gerard Rocher-Ros
The ARIMETH project will investigate the mechanisms driving methane emissions from Arctic rivers, a significant but thus far underestimated source of greenhouse gases. Through advanced measurement techniques and modelling, the project explores how climate change affects methane fluxes in the Arctic, focusing on the interplay between biogeochemical processes and hydrological changes. The goal is to understand better the Arctic's role in the global carbon cycle and contribute to more accurate climate projections.
Preparing to Teach about Sámi Issues: A New Model for Teacher Training in Northern Norway, Sweden, and Finland
Swedish Research Council: SEK 4,359,000 | Björn Norlin and Anna-Lill Drugge
This project aims to enhance teacher training in northern Norway, Sweden, and Finland by examining how students are prepared to teach Sámi topics. Its goal is to develop a model that overcomes obstacles, identifies effective approaches, and fosters cross-border collaborations for more inclusive education about Indigenous peoples.
Hidden World, Big Impact: Revealing How Arctic Shrubs' Roots Respond to Climate Warming
Formas: SEK 6,010,428 | Sarah Schwieger
This project investigates how the roots of Arctic shrubs are affected by a warming climate, focusing on decomposition processes that influence carbon flows and climate balance. By studying these underground processes, the project seeks to provide key insights into vegetation changes in the Arctic and their significance for the global climate budget.
The Internationalization of the Tourism Labor Market in Rural Arctic Sweden
Familjen Kamprads Stiftelse: SEK 6,800,000 | Dieter Müller, Marco Eimermann, Linda Lundmark
Researchers will analyse the potential of utilising international labour to address staffing shortages in Arctic Sweden's tourism sector. The aim is to develop strategies that promote sustainable tourism by combining global labour market solutions with the needs and interests of local communities.
Climate Impacts, N- and P-Deposition, and Land Use on Water as a Driver for Ecosystem Services Regulating Greenhouse Gases in Catchments
Formas: SEK 3,465,001 | Jan Karlsson
This project examines the role of water in regulating greenhouse gases in catchments to improve understanding of the social and economic values of these ecosystem services. It aims to contribute to better policies, technologies, and methods for sustainably managing carbon flows.
Unearthing Aesthetics: Natural Resources, Art and Visual Culture Around 1900
Swedish Research Council: SEK 3 082 000 | Anna-Maria Hällgren
This project will focus on how the natural environment of northern Sweden, including the Arctic, was depicted in art and visual culture around the turn of the 20th century. The study explores how this nature was simultaneously romanticised and exploited as a resource by examining artists' portrayals of Lapland's ore mountains, rapids, and forests. Through critical analyses of artistic collaborations with industry and disseminating these images in educational contexts, the project highlights how colonial and aesthetic perspectives shaped views of the Arctic—a history whose consequences still resonate today.
Gender-Based Violence in Sápmi: An Analysis and Development of Social Services' Capabilities to Address the Needs of Sámi Women
Forte: SEK 3,744,000 | Jennie Brandén
This research aims to improve social services' support capabilities by investigating social workers’ perspectives and challenges related to the experiences and needs of Sámi women affected by violence. The project intends to create a stronger dialogue between social services and the Sámi population to meet local needs better.
Embodied Stories / Possible Climate Futures
Formas: SEK 1 999 22 | Keith Larson
This project will translate Arctic climate data into immersive art experiences to engage the public with the realities of climate change. It uses microclimate data from a permafrost mire in Abisko to drive interactive installations, such as sculptural "Canopy Swings" that simulate climate scenarios through heat, sound, light, and vibrations. The project aims to bridge the gap between research and public awareness by combining scientific data with sensory art, fostering dialogue and understanding about Arctic changes and their global impact.
Zoomtowns, Mobility, and the ‘Invisible’ Population of the Countryside
Riksbankens Jubileumsfon: SEK 5 961 385 | Dieter Müller
The project will examine how digital work practices and attractive natural environments in the Arctic attract remote workers to so-called "zoom towns"—new urban hubs in previously sparsely populated areas. Through analyses of mobile phone data and interviews with local stakeholders, the project will map how these changes impact regional development, infrastructure, and local economies. The research contributes to a deeper understanding of how global climate change and digitalisation reshape the Arctic and rural areas.
Shaped Climate Futures
Postkodlotteriet: SEK 2 325 000 | Keith Larson
A unique project connecting art and science to highlight the impact of the climate crisis, particularly in sensitive regions like the Arctic. Through large-scale sculptural greenhouses inspired by UN climate scenarios, visitors can experience future climate changes through light, sound, and temperature. The exhibition emphasises the Arctic's role as a global indicator of climate change and inspires action for a sustainable future.
Ignored work: Channelling temporary migration to the ´New Green North’
Vetenskapsrådet: SEK 5 100 000 | Charlotta Hedberg
Within this project, the impact of temporary migrant workers on communities in northern Sweden during the green transition is being investigated. The focus is on the social and economic effects of labour mobility in the Arctic region, aiming to contribute to sustainable working conditions and strengthen local communities during this global transformation.
Conflict or Cooperation? Learning from History, Tensions, and Land Use Conflicts in Sweden’s Arctic Region
Riksbankens Jubileumsfond: Total: SEK 41.1 million | Umeå University’s portion: SEK 6 000 000 | Åsa Ösbo and Gudrun Norstedt
This program focuses on Sámi, Tornedalians, and other groups in northern Sweden. It examines land conflicts spanning 400 years to highlight how historical institutions and decisions have shaped today’s opportunities for collaboration. The goal is to equip decision-makers with tools for developing sustainable land-use solutions in a rapidly changing region.