Teaching in Svalbard

For the second year, we have been invited to guest lecture for students in the Arctic Population Ecology (AB-204) course led by Dr. Larissa Beumer at the University Centre in Svalbard (UNIS). Our theme for the guest lectures was marine ecology and how we can use tracking methods like acoustic telemetry to study the behaviour and movement of aquatic species. In addition to lecturing about telemetry methods, we showed examples of research projects where telemetry is used, ethics around working with fish and tracking them, had class discussions about a variety of subjects, and students got hands-on experience with working with telemetry data in R. The guest lectures were combined with field trips out in the fjords outside of Longyearbyen to demonstrate how tagging fish works.

Telemetry is a powerful tool in ecological research. By tagging fish with acoustic transmitters and deploying underwater receivers, we can track individual movements over time and space. This allows us to investigate key ecological processes like habitat use, migration, and predator-prey interactions - especially relevant in rapidly changing environments like the Arctic.

During the trip, students helped catch Atlantic cod and assisted in tagging procedures. These hands-on experiences gave them insight into both the technical and ecological aspects of telemetry, and sparked discussions about climate impacts, data interpretation, and research ethics. Bringing students into the field is a great way to connect theory with practice. It also hopefully helps inspire and build the next generation of Arctic researchers, equipped with the tools and perspectives needed to understand and protect these vulnerable ecosystems.

#NFR_NICE (Nr. 343120)