Grants and Contributions:

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Title:

POLARIS: Passenger-based Oceanographic Laboratory for Autonomous Research in the Southern Ocean

Agreement Number:

POLAR-2526-0017

Agreement Value:

$100,000.00

Agreement Date:

Mar 31, 2026 - Mar 31, 2027

Description:

This project seeks to deploy an automated phytoplankton imaging sensor, and a system to measure surface water concentrations of dimethylsulfide (DMS). In collaboration with the Chilean Antarctica21 Foundation (A21) and the Chilean Antarctic Institute (INACH), the University of British Columbia proposes to install automated oceanographic sensors on board the passenger vessel, Magellan Discoverer, for long-term observations of surface ocean properties along the West Antarctic Peninsula (WAP).

Organization:

Polar Knowledge Canada

Expected Results:

Enhance long‑term monitoring of Antarctic marine ecosystems by improving understanding of phytoplankton dynamics and oceanographic change, while increasing public awareness of environmental shifts in the Southern Ocean and strengthening Canada’s role in Antarctic science partnerships.

Location:

Vancouver, British Columbia, CA V6T 1Z4

Reference Number:

171-2025-2026-Q4-P0005

Agreement Type:

Contribution

Report Type:

Grants and Contributions

Recipient Type:

Academia

Recipient's Legal Name:

The University of British Columbia

Federal Riding Name:

Vancouver Quadra

Federal Riding Number:

49040

Program:

Grants and Contributions for the Advancement of Northern Science and Technology

Program Purpose:

To fund youth and/or adult programs to develop new skills, enhance career experiences and/or to participate in S&T activities. To provide funding to individuals or organizations in the form of scholarships or bursaries for programs. To provide funding to Canadian universities and institutes for northern scientific research training.