The NDI Think Tank project involves international teams of experts from Finland, Russia, and Austria: representatives of Aalto University - the project lead, Northern (Arctic) Federal University, St. Petersburg State University of Economics, University of Oulu and the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis. The project aims at conducting interdisciplinary research on the development of logistics and ensuring the safety of maritime navigation, environmental protection, innovations in the field of culture, healthcare and quality of life in northern regions, which corresponds well with activities of both the Northern Dimension and the University of the Arctic.

Partner universities will organize workshops as well as training and expert seminars. Purpose of the training is to ensure that the research community has the needed skills and capabilities to interact and conduct outreach activities with decision-makers and other audiences.

“The first results of joint research work will be presented at the annual Northern Dimension Future Forum , which will take place on November 28, 2019 in Helsinki. They will form the basis for recommendations on development of the Northern Dimension Partnerships policy", says Marina Kalinina, UArctic VP Interregional Cooperation.

Northern (Arctic) Federal Unversity together with Aalto University and St. Petersburg State University of Economics have been co-coordinating the Northern Dimension Institute since 2013. NDI unites more than 30 universities from around the world and is to provide expert support for the activities of the Northern Dimension Partnerships.


University of Oulu has been a member of the University of the Arctic since 2003 and hosts the UArctic Thematic Networks and Research Liaison Office.
Northern (Arctic) Federal University has been a member of the University of the Arctic since 2004 and hosts the UArctic Research Office.