This project under the Thematic Network for Health and Wellbeing brings researchers, students, and Indigenous scholars together to share knowledge, set priorities for Arctic health research, and strengthen collaboration across regions and institutions
By Christina Viskum Lytken Larsen, Professor, University of Southern Denmark
Since the launch of the project in 2024, the Thematic Network has expanded its membership and visibility, and partners have developed a shared Memorandum of Understanding. Key academic outputs are underway, including a proceedings paper and a special issue on circumpolar maternal and child health. The first mentorship cohort has been completed and evaluated, informing the next phase of the program. Knowledge exchange activities, such as a gathering in Sisimiut, have deepened partnerships between researchers and Indigenous knowledge holders in Nunavut and Kalaallit Nunaat and elevated Indigenous perspectives in health research. By fostering relationships and building capacity, the project promotes sustainable, culturally grounded, community-driven approaches that support healthier Arctic communities and potentially shape future health research and policy in the region.
This project is part of the activities of the UArctic Thematic Network on Health and Well-being in the Arctic.
Thanks to financial support from Arctic governments, UArctic is able to provide funding towards collaborative projects of its members. The funding from the Danish Agency for Higher Education and Science (DAHES) supports network activities related to Arctic research and education across all fields of science, and it is aimed at strengthening collaboration between member institutions within the Kingdom of Denmark as well as internationally.
