Arctic Research | Alaska Business Initiative

Arctic
Research

Alaska serves as the gateway to the Arctic, anchoring global efforts in climate science, environmental stewardship, and geopolitical research.

With institutions like the University of Alaska Fairbanks’ International Arctic Research Center (IARC) – a U.S.–Japan partnership involving multiple Arctic nations – Alaska drives research into permafrost dynamics, Arctic ocean-atmosphere interactions, and ecosystem shifts.

The state is dotted with world-class research facilities. In Utqiaġvik, the North Slope Atmospheric Observatory, part of the Department of Energy’s ARM network, has provided continuous atmospheric data for over 25 years. Researchers study cloud radiative effects, aerosols, and extreme cold-weather processes—collecting hundreds of terabytes of data annually to refine climate models.Additionally, the nearby Applied Physics Laboratory Ice Station, positioned on drifting Arctic ice floes, enables on-site cold-weather testing of instruments and autonomous platforms.

The Institute of Arctic Biology manages Toolik Field Station, a Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) site funded by the NSF, highlighting permafrost thawing, carbon fluxes, and tundra ecology. Across Fairbanks, entities like the Geophysical Institute, with nearly 300 staff, oversee seismic, space, atmospheric, and kettle research through assets like HAARP, Poker Flat rocket range, and the Alaska Satellite Facility.

In total, federal and academic investment in Alaska’s Arctic research exceeds $500 million annually, across 18 agencies – supporting satellite missions, icebreaker initiatives, remote stations, and international collaborations. NOAA recently awarded $3.84 million to community-led climate adaptation tools tailored to Alaska’s needs.

Geopolitically, Alaska anchors Arctic policy through the U.S. Arctic Research Commission and the Arctic Council, shaping international science cooperation, data sharing, and regulatory frameworks. As melting sea ice reshapes global trade routes, research from Alaska informs maritime, defense, and resource strategies—fortifying its role as a strategic linchpin.

Alaska’s Arctic research ecosystem blends cutting-edge climate science, cold-weather engineering, and strategic collaboration. Its work ensures that military, commercial, and environmental infrastructures can operate reliably in the coldest extremes of our changing planet.

Spotlight

Cold Weather Testing

Cold weather testing in Alaska has deep roots; Ladd Field (now Fairbanks) pioneered evaluation of aircraft, clothing, and equipment under continuous subzero conditions during WWII. The legacy continues today with the Air Force Research and Development Command's 5001st Cold Weather Materiel Testing Squadron. Today, ARCTIC and DOE funding further Alaska's leadership in developing resilient infrastructure – from modular housing to energy systems – designed for freezing environments.

For national security and commercial stakeholders alike, Alaska-based Arctic research advances domain awareness across – under the ice, in the air, at sea, and in space – while strengthening operational capabilities such as icebreaking, communications, navigation, and data analytics in extreme cold. These efforts are driving innovation in technology, infrastructure, and surveillance, positioning Alaska at the forefront of great power competition and climate-driven change in the High North.