Interview: "Developing the iC3 Global Scholars Programme has strengthened iC3's international collaborations"

In this interview, iC3 Directors Support Coordinator Neelu Singh shares her journey from research to supporting iC3’s leadership, strategic initiatives, and international collaborations.

Could you describe yourself briefly and explain the focus of your role at iC3?

My name is Neelu Singh, and I work as Director Support Coordinator at iC3. My role focuses on supporting the leadership team in coordinating the Centre's activities and strategic initiatives. This includes meeting and event coordination, support for international collaborations and programmes, preparation of reports and presentations, and administrative processes related to finance, travel, and communications.

Over the past year, I have contributed to a range of activities, including support for the Global Scholar Programme, Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) processes, reporting, communication materials, and the development of a survey to help identify Earth Observation and remote sensing needs within iC3. I enjoy helping create the structure and coordination that allows researchers and leadership to focus on their work.

Why did you transition from research to a support-focused position?

My transition from research to a support-focused role happened gradually. During my years as a researcher, I became increasingly aware of the amount of planning, coordination, and administrative work that is required to make research possible. Fieldwork, international collaborations, workshops, and large projects all rely on people working behind the scenes.

I realized that I enjoy organization, communication, and bringing different pieces together. My research background helps me understand the needs of scientists, while my current role allows me to contribute to the broader success of research initiatives in a different way.

What technologies or methodologies have you been most excited about in your research?

I have seen a significant change in the tools available to researchers and professional staff over the years. Early in my career, much of my work relied on traditional tools such as Excel, PowerPoint, and laboratory-based analytical methods. Today, there are many more digital tools that support communication, project management, and collaboration.

In my current role, I regularly use tools for presentation design, document development, information management, and collaboration. I am particularly interested in how AI-powered tools can help improve efficiency and communication while ensuring that scientific integrity and human judgement remain central.

What are you looking forward to in the next year?

Over the next year, I look forward to continuing to develop my role at iC3 and supporting ongoing strategic initiatives. I am particularly interested in strengthening international collaboration activities, improving internal processes, and contributing to effective communication of iC3's research and societal impact.

I also hope to continue developing my professional skills and finding new ways to support both the leadership team and the wider iC3 community.

Neelu Singh works as Directors support coordinator at the iC3 Polar Research Hub in Tromsø, the capital of the Arctic. To find out more about her past work, please check out her list of publications, or contact her by email or via LinkedIn.