With the research icebreaker Polarstern and the successor Polarstern II in planning, Arctic stations and aircrafts, Germany is in the position to make a substantial contribution to the infrastructure required for international Arctic research. Close international cooperation plays a central role in gaining an understanding of future developments of the Arctic. Germany is committed to international cooperation in various ways and German scientists play a leading role in a number of international Arctic research activities. Building on the well-received German country presentation at the last Arctic Circle Assembly, this breakout session focuses on Germany´ Arctic research activities and contributions to international Arctic research cooperation. Representatives of the major German research institutes working in the Arctic will present national and international research programs and flagship projects.

Speakers:

• Karin Lochte, Director, Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research (AWI): Advancing Understanding of the Arctic Through New Technologies.
• Simon Plass, Project Manager, German Aerospace Center (DLR): DLR Contributions to Arctic Research.
• Heidimarie Kassens, Senior Research Scientist, GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research: The Laptev Sea - Hotspot for Climate Research in the Russian Arctic.
• Ralph Watzel, President, Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources (BGR): Natural Resources in the Changing Arctic.
• Kathrin Keil, Project Scientist, Institute for Advanced Sustainability Studies (IASS): Sustainability and Governance Challenges in a Changing Arctic.
• Markus Rex, Senior Scientist, Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research (AWI): The Multidisciplinary Drifting Observatory for the Study of Arctic Climate (MOSAiC).
• Volker Rachold, Secretary General, International Arctic Science Committee (IASC): International Arctic Research Cooperation.