Prospective students
The Patagonian Ice Fields Research Program is a transformative experience where a diverse group of students, professors and guides can share, explore and work for two weeks on the Patagonian Icefields. While science is the axis the program revolves around, the personal experiences, strong friendships and professional connections created, will reach far beyond the science done in any particular program. Therefore, we place a strong emphasis on creating positive and transformative experiences and fostering resilience, leadership and teamwork. We take the science conducted at PIRP very seriously, but ultimately, what draws us towards science is the love for nature, the mountains and the experience of the raw wilderness. And is that what PIRP strive to inspire in our students, as well as the desire to share their experiences and knowledge with the wider community.
Information for prospective students
Who can apply?
Early career cryospheric scientists. This usually refers to graduate students in geosciences (i.e. master's and Ph.D. students) or other related sciences (such as biology, math, physics, chemistry, etc.) when their thesis projects are directly related to the cryosphere. Applications from recently graduated Master's and Ph.D. programs will also be considered. Application from undergraduate students working on thesis projects that are directly related to the cryosphere can exceptionally be considered.
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When and where will the program take place?
From November 15 to December 2, 2024. Participants are required to arrive in Punta Arenas, Chile and meet on November 15, 10:00 AM at the Centro de Investigación GAIA Antártica (map). From there, the program will arrange and cover transport to the field site at Bernal Glacier (map).
How much are the program fees
USD$3.000.
This amount is divided between a USD$500 enrollment fee due on September 27, 2024, and a USD$2.500 field fee due the first day of the field campaign (November 15, 2024).
What is covered by the program fees
The program includes accommodation, transport, food during the program (November 14 to December 2), scientific equipment and supplies for science projects, and standard camping gear such as tents, pots, and stoves. On request, the program can also provide personal gear such as helmets, harnesses, crampons, and ice axes.
What is NOT covered by the program
Air travel fares to Punta Arenas and accommodation before or after the program. Each participant has to arrange travel to Punta Arenas and back and cover the associated travel costs. It is also the responsibility of each participant to arrange rescue and medical insurance if not provided by their home institution.
How many student seats are available
Eight.
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Are there scholarships
Yes, there are two full scholarships for students from low, and middle-income countries and all South American countries (list of selected countries). These scholarships cover program fees only (i.e. transport from the student's hometown to Punta Arenas is NOT included).
In what language is the program
English, but all the guides and most faculty are fluent in Spanish.
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Can I get transfer credits from PIRP towards my university curriculum?
Universidad the Magallanes can provide a certificate of your participation in the program, the academic curriculum covered, the number of teaching hours, and a grade if required. However, the success of transferring those credits will depend on your university's requirements for accepting transfer credits.
When is the application deadline?
September 15, 2024. However, scholarship applications have an earlier deadline on August 23, 2024.
How to apply
The application process for Expedition 2024 is closed. Subscribe to our newsletter to be notified when the application process for Expedition 2025 opens.
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Are there other similar programs I could apply?
Yes, they are. Some examples are the Juneau Icefield Research Program, which provided a big part of the inspiration to create PIRP, and the International Summer School in Glaciology.
