To enhance coordination and impact in polar science, members of the BIOPOLE programme have spearheaded the formation of two new strategic initiatives: the UK Antarctica Insync Biological Working Group and the BIOPOLE Task Force for a Royal Society Discussion Meeting.  

The UK Antarctica Insync Biological Working Group brings together leading UK researchers focused on Antarctic biology to align scientific efforts, share data, and foster collaboration across institutions as part of the Antarctica InSync initiative. The group aims to identify synergies in ongoing fieldwork, harmonise biological monitoring approaches, and develop integrated frameworks for understanding ecosystem change in the Southern Ocean and Antarctic continent. By working “in sync,” the group hopes to amplify the UK’s contribution to international polar science and policy.   

As a contribution to BIOPOLE’s Legacy initiative, a dedicated BIOPOLE Royal Society Discussion Meeting Task Force has been convened to organise a high-profile international meeting. This event will showcase cutting-edge biological research in polar regions, highlight emerging challenges, and explore the role of UK and international science in addressing global environmental change. The Task Force includes representatives from across the BIOPOLE consortium and is currently developing a compelling programme and list of speakers that will bring together scientists, policymakers, and stakeholders in early 2026. If successful, this will follow on from a recent Royal Society Discussion meeting on Global impacts of climate extremes in the polar regions: is Antarctica reaching a tipping point?  led by BIOPOLE’s Kate Hendry together with Michael Meredith, Geraint Tarling, and Alexander Brearley, and including talks by BIOPOLE’s Jen Freer and Sian Henley (see News article and Newsletter feature above).

These initiatives reflect BIOPOLE’s commitment to building a cohesive and forward-looking polar research community. They also underscore the programme’s leadership in shaping the future of UK Antarctic science through collaboration, innovation, and strategic engagement.  

Stay tuned for updates on both initiatives in future editions of the newsletter. For further information and how to contribute please contact Nadine Johnston or Geraint Tarling. 

The Author of this Article Nadine Johnston and Geraint Tarling (British Antarctic Survey)