iT1: Novel technologies
Taking polar research to the next level
iC3’s team is developing cutting-edge modelling and measurement technologies that will take polar research to the next level. Our aim is to transform scientists’ ability to measure and model ice-carbon-climate feedbacks.
We are currently focusing our efforts on:
- New modular clean hot water drilling technology
- Innovative remote data capture systems: new imaging technologies and novel nutrient & carbon sensors
- Multi-scale modelling of ice-ocean biogeochemical interactions
After development and testing, we deploy these new technologies in the air, on land, and in the sea across both polar regions. For more information please contact iT1 lead Professor Stefan Buenz.
Impact Theme Leads
Professor Stefan Bünz
Research Lead
Stefan Bünz is a professor of marine geophysics in the Department of Geosciences at UiT The Arctic University of Norway, iC3’s host institution. Within iC3, his work focuses on understanding how much carbon is stored beneath ice sheets, a key missing puzzle piece required for predicting climate-driven carbon release and improving global carbon cycle models. He leads research that uses seismic, gravity, and magnetic data to map sediment thickness under ice. Stefan is committed to advancing our understanding of the Earth’s oceanic systems, particularly on all aspects of gas hydrate and fluid flows in marine sediments and their role in storing and remobilizing carbon, and their implications for climate and seafloor ecosystems. Previously, he served as team leader for the gas hydrate and free gas reservoirs group at the Centre for Arctic Gas Hydrate, Environment and Climate (CAGE) at UiT. Stefan’s expertise spans fluid dynamics, gas hydrate systems, marine geohazards, oceanic heat flow, carbon dioxide storage, and seafloor ecosystems. He is the author of over 80 peer-reviewed publications.
Professor Jana Jágerská
Researcher
Jana Jágerská is a full professor at the Department of Physics and Technology at the Arctic University of Norway in Tromsø, specializing in the development of nanophotonic integrated circuits. Her work is instrumental in creating compact and efficient instruments for detecting greenhouse gases such as methane and CO2, which are crucial for addressing climate change. By miniaturizing these detection tools, Jana aims to revolutionize environmental monitoring, making it more accessible and effective. Her academic journey began with a PhD in Lausanne, Switzerland, where she engaged in fundamental research. In the following years, she transitioned to applied research at Empa, a research institute in Switzerland, driven by a desire to align her work with pressing environmental issues. This shift involved optimizing the spectral range from telecom wavelengths to mid-infrared, enhancing the applicability of her research in environmental contexts. Jana came to UiT in Tromsø in 2015 and established her research group in 2017. Her research has led to significant breakthroughs, including the development of a photonic circuit design that was initially considered unfeasible. This innovation has resulted in patented technologies and has become a cornerstone of her work. Her dedication to interdisciplinary collaboration ensures that her sensors are practical and meet real-world needs, aligning closely with environmental initiatives like IC3. In addition to her research, Jana is committed to teaching, offering courses in photonics that emphasize a dynamic and interactive learning approach. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys outdoor activities such as rock climbing, which helps her maintain focus and resilience. Her work not only advances scientific understanding but also promises practical solutions to pressing environmental challenges, contributing to a more sustainable future. Through her efforts, Jana is helping to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and real-world application.
Dr Tore Hattermann
Assistant Lead
Tore Hattermann is a physical oceanographer with iC3 based at the Norwegian Polar Institute where he investigates ice-ocean interactions in the Antarctic and Southern Ocean. These have profound implications for future sea-level rise, ocean circulation, and ecosystem dynamics. His current research blends field observations—including long-term moored instruments beneath floating ice shelves—with advanced numerical modelling to understand turbulence at the ice-ocean boundary, heat transport toward continental shelves, and physical drivers of ocean circulation that influence melting processes and nutrient exchange in polar regions. Tore’s work spans observational and computational approaches, including modelling using global climate models like NorESM and fine-scale simulations of ice shelf cavities. His fieldwork generates observational datasets that improve ice-ocean interaction models and inform global climate projections. His scientific contributions include advancing knowledge of basal ice melt dynamics, sub-ice-shelf circulation, and the physical processes critical to Antarctic ocean-ice interactions that underlie global climate and sea-level change. Outside of science, he enjoys skiing and spending time outdoors with his family, making the most of the Arctic landscapes around Tromsø.
Dr Roman Zakoldaev
Postdoctoral researcher
Roman Zakoldaev is a researcher in the Physics and Technology Department of the Arctic University of Norway, where he focuses on the sensing and spectroscopy of molecules on a chip. His work involves designing innovative photonic solutions to enhance the application of these techniques for environmental monitoring and diagnostics. Originally, photonics was primarily used for communication, but Roman's research explores its potential for sensing needs, particularly in detecting environmental changes and diagnosing biomolecules at early stages. His approach includes creating novel designs of optical waveguides that allow light to interact with targeted molecules like methane and CO2, offering real-time environmental monitoring without the need for sample collection and processing in distant laboratories. Roman is part of the iT1 group, which develops and applies novel technologies for cryospheric science within iC3. Outside of his scientific pursuits, Roman enjoys cross-country skiing and hiking, taking advantage of the beautiful landscapes around him. He also has a passion for cooking, especially dishes involving meat and fish, and occasionally indulges in ice bathing, a refreshing activity that involves jumping into cold waters. Roman finds joy in exploring new culinary techniques and experimenting with local ingredients.
Dr Jan Viljanen
Postdoctoral researcher
Jan Viljanen is a Marie Curie postdoctoral fellow whose expertise lies in environmental science and innovative measurement technologies. His current research focuses on developing cutting-edge laser-based methods to monitor iron levels in glacial waters. This work is crucial for understanding nutrient cycles that significantly impact marine ecosystems. By providing continuous, real-time data, Jan's research offers invaluable insights into how iron flows from glaciers to oceans, which is essential for both glaciological and oceanographic studies. His scientific journey began at Tampere University in Finland, where he cultivated a strong foundation in environmental monitoring. Jan’s role extends to his position as Chief Technology Officer at Cense Analytics, a spin-off from Tampere University. Here, he leads the development of technologies that enable companies to measure and improve their environmental impact, particularly through large-scale soil carbon assessments. Outside the lab, Jan embraces the great outdoors with a passion for white-water kayaking. He frequently explores the scenic and challenging rivers of Norway, often accompanied by a close-knit group of kayaking friends. Additionally, Jan finds creative balance in music, playing instruments such as the piano and drums. Whether navigating the intricacies of scientific research or the rapids of a river, Jan approaches life with boundless curiosity and enthusiasm. His personal motto, "If you can measure it, you can improve it," reflects his commitment to understanding and enhancing the world around him.