Kilpisjärvi Biological Station

Kilpisjärvi Biological Station is nestled on the flanks of the Saana fell and offers an exceptional setting for natural science and local culture research in Northern Finland. 

Year after year, researchers and students from Finland and around the world make their way to the northernmost unit of the University of Helsinki to study the fluctuation of lemming populations, the winter wildlife of the fells or the cultural history of Lappish villages.

Long-term monitoring forms the core of research at Kilpisjärvi Biological Station. The station also participates in international research projects.

The Kilpisjärvi Biological Station offers accommodation and tasty meals for visitors and provides researchers and students with the use of transportation and laboratory facilities.

The station also has a conference room. Students can borrow skis, snowshoes or a bicycle from the station according to the season. For day trips, visitors can prepare a packed lunch in connection with breakfast. The staff are happy to help with any questions you may have.

Are you thinking about organising a field course or an international conference? Contact the station office for more information!

Institution University of Helsinki
Country Finland
Infrastructure type Research station
Disciplines Sociology and cultural studies
Biology and biochemistry
Environmental sciences
Natural environments and wildlife
Environmental protection
Language of operation English
Finnish
Swedish
Keywords arctic biologynatural sciencelocal culture researchFinlandenviornmental studies

Availability

The station can accommodate up to 70 people, some of whom can be accommodated in charming cottages by the lake.

Station's own kitchen prepares delicious meals and the lakeside sauna is warmed up regularly. At the end of the day, you can hike to the Saana fell or enjoy refreshments at the nearby Kilpisjärvi Hiking Center.

Researchers have the use of several laboratories equipped with the primary tools for conducting analyses.

Researchers also have the use of motorboats and a snowmobile and, depending on circumstances, a car. Please contact the service coordinator for more information or a reservation. If you wish to enquire about or reserve equipment, please contact the laboratory technician.

Read more information here.

Contact information

Kilpisjärvi Biological Station
Käsivarrentie 14622
F1-99490 Kilpisjärvi

Reservations and enquiries:  bio-kilpis@helsinki.fi

The office is located in the Main Building. Opening hours: weekdays from 8:00 to 15:45.

You can pay in cash or by bank or credit card (Visa, Visa Electron and Mastercard).

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