Strategies to build a positive and inclusive Antarctic field work environment

• Published in: Annals of Glaciology
• Main Authors: Marianne S. Karplus, Tun Jan Young, Sridhar Anandakrishnan, Jeremy N. Bassis, Elizabeth H. Case, Anna J. Crawford, Anne Gold, Leilani Henry, Jonathan Kingslake, Asmara A. Lehrmann, Patricia A. Montaño, Erin C. Pettit, Ted A. Scambos, Elizabeth M. Sheffield, Emma C. Smith, Margie Turrin, Julia S. Wellner
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Cambridge University Press 2022
• Subjects: Antarctic glaciology; atmosphere/ice/ocean interactions; climate change; Meteorology. Climatology; QC851-999; Antarctic; Thwaites Glacier; Annals of Glaciology; Antarc*
• Online Access: https://doi.org/10.1017/aog.2023.32; https://doaj.org/article/8d197e0d173149dfab16f8cf62a9feaf

To increase inclusivity, diversity, equity and accessibility in Antarctic science, we must build more positive and inclusive Antarctic field work environments. The International Thwaites Glacier Collaboration (ITGC) has engaged in efforts to contribute to that goal through a variety of activities since 2018, including creating an open-access ‘Field and Ship Best Practices’ guide, engaging in pre-field season team dynamics meetings, and surveying post-field season reflections and experiences. We report specific actions taken by ITGC and their outcomes. We found that strong and supported early career researchers brought new and important perspectives regarding strategies for transforming culture. We discovered that engaged and involved senior leadership was also critical for expanding participation and securing funding to support efforts. Pre-field discussions involving all field team members were particularly helpful for setting expectations, improving sense of belonging, describing field work best practices, and co-creating a positive work culture.