The One Ocean Expedition, in partnership with UiT, The Arctic University of Norway, UArctic, and Memorial University, will be a floating classroom and transformative gathering space.  It includes ocean research in the North by placing Indigenous knowledge, experiential learning, and relational approaches at the center. Onboard, participants will delve into the urgent issues facing the Arctic, such as climate change, sovereignty, and cultural resilience, while engaging in meaningful discussions about ethical research, cultural safety, and the responsibilities of working in Indigenous and Northern homelands

The expedition is offering learning that is grounded in place - shaped by collective care, and guided by those who have long stewarded Arctic knowledge, lands, and waters. The voyage will provide space for students, researchers, and Indigenous Knowledge Holders to have dialogue and share lived experiences and insights from Arctic communities.

The impacts of this journey will not be measured in nautical miles, but in how it strengthens networks across the Arctic, supports future research that reflects community values and priorities, and builds lasting collaborations between institutions and Indigenous communities.

Community-Led Research, Rooted in Relationships

The students aboard the Statsraad Lehmkuhl will participate in interdisciplinary research support and academic studies while also learning through the daily routines and tasks of life at sea.  But, it is the opportunity to learn alongside Indigenous Knowledge Holders that will make this experience truly transformative.

In examining the future of the Arctic it is crucial to listen to teachings, stories, and perspectives of those who have always known and protected the Northern environments. It needs the strengthening of ethical research practices, building long-term relationships between youth and Indigenous Knowledge Holders, and shaping shared research that reflect the values and priorities of communities it impacts.

Invitation to Indigenous Knowledge Holders

To ensure this journey reflects and honors Indigenous ways of knowing, the One Ocean Expedition is inviting two Elders/Indigenous Knowledge Holders from Canada to join the voyage as part of the teaching and mentorship team.

Elders/Indigenous Knowledge Holders will:

  • Share stories, teachings, and experiences that support holistic understanding of place, climate, and community
  • Provide cultural guidance and insight to students, researchers, and crew
  • Help create a learning environment that values reciprocity, respect, and care

This is not just an educational opportunity for students – this is a journey for mutual exchange, where Indigenous views, knowledge, and traditions are not only included but central to the experience.   The expedition is an educational experience that will honor intergenerational knowledge, nurturing leadership, and help to shape a research future that reflects and respects the North.

Interested Elders/Knowledge Holders?

If you are an Elder/Indigenous Knowledge Holder from a Northern or Indigenous community in Canada and would like to participate, we invite you to apply or reach out for more information.

Commitment: Involves one leg of the expedition (either August or September)

Compensation: $400 per day, plus all travel and food costs covered
Deadline to Apply: May 31, 2025

Please contact:
Sheila Downer
Vice President, Northern and Community Engagement, UArctic