Dreaming of Antarctica? You can now apply to join Akademik Vernadsky station
Ukrainians invited to join the polar team at Akademik Vernadsky (photo: Getty Images)
Spending a year in Antarctica with penguins and gazing at endless icebergs? All this is real if you have the right education and motivation. On July 15, an open competition began for the 31st Ukrainian Antarctic Expedition, whose participants will work at the "Akademik Vernadsky" station in 2026–2027. Here's how to become an expedition member, where to submit documents, and who is needed for the 31st mission.
General requirements for participants
- No chronic illnesses or contraindications for working in Antarctica
- Non-confrontational and communicative personality
- Ability to work under a strict schedule, long-term isolation, and in a closed team
- Knowledge of foreign languages (ideally English and/or Spanish)
- Bonus skills: operating a motorboat, flying a drone
Who they are looking for by specialty
Scientists:
- Geology and geophysics
- Geospace
- Physical sciences
- Life sciences
Support team:
- Doctor
- Cook
- System administrator
- Mechanic
- Diesel-electric engineer
There are no restrictions based on gender, age, or other characteristics. In selection, the main criteria are the candidate’s education, professional qualifications, and experience, as well as their capacity to work in Antarctic conditions and a closed collective.
What expedition members are guaranteed
- Opportunity to contribute to global science
- Life on a warm station in the Southern Ocean among penguins
- Salary
- Unlimited internet access
- Clothing, food, and hygiene supplies
- Medicine and medical care
How to become a participant
By August 13, 2025, you need to send an application, CV, motivation letter, and copies of several documents to the National Antarctic Scientific Center (NANC) via email at uac@uac.gov.ua:
- Completed application form (scientific or station staff)
- Copies of education certificates, scientific degree, and academic title (if applicable)
- Copy of employment record book and other documents confirming work experience
- For those liable for military service: a copy of the military registration document indicating the results of a medical examination and fitness for service; a certificate of deferment from military service during mobilization or special period
The email subject should state: "Competition 31st UAE, last name, initials", and the field of research for scientists (e.g., "life sciences"); the position for specialists (e.g., "cook").
The application must be signed by the candidate (scanned copy) or via a digital signature.
All documents must be submitted in PDF format.
Important: The selection committee will not consider documents that do not meet the listed requirements.
If you qualify, the following stages await:
- Submission of the complete document package
- Professional interview and psychological testing
- Medical examination and special training
Earlier, we explained how Ukrainians can travel to Antarctica in 2025.
Sources: data from the Ministry of Education and Science and the National Antarctic Scientific Center.
