In the final months of 2023, I embarked on a rewarding three-month placement at the Nordland Research Institute in Bodø, Norway. As a PhD student at Durham University’s Geography Department, my academic journey has been dedicated to exploring the intricate relationship between cartographic uncertainties in the Arctic and experimentation with creative methods. This placement offered a unique opportunity to merge my cartographic expertise with Nordland's interdisciplinary research on environmental issues in the Arctic.
Choosing the Nordland Research Institute for my placement was driven by its acclaimed interdisciplinary approach on environment, society, welfare and sustainability. I identified a need for enhanced cartographic support within the institute and was keen to contribute my skills in map-making, spatial analysis and creativity. This initiative aimed not only to augment the institute's research capabilities but also to enrich my understanding of environmental issues in Northern Norway and the diverse projects at the institute.
During my time at Nordland, I engaged in a variety of roles. My contributions to the institute's cartographic needs included providing expertise in map production and spatial analysis. Together with Dr. Helena Gonzales Lindberg, we designed and delivered a comprehensive workshop that included seminars on map making in the social sciences and critical map analysis. In the final month of my placement, I organised and led a full-day workshop that underscored the importance and applications of cartography in social science research. The event was well-received, fostering meaningful conversations and demonstrating the integral role of maps in interdisciplinary research. The engagement and enthusiasm of the participants were particularly gratifying, as they created, discussed, and brainstormed around maps, underscoring the potential impact of cartography beyond the workshop.
My collaboration with Helena Gonzales Lindberg was a highlight of my placement. Our partnership extended beyond the workshop to a creative academic outcome: a paper/podcast that critically examines Google Maps, exploring its history, utility, and societal impact. This project, which we plan to submit for publication later this year, reflects our shared commitment to advancing cartographic discourse.
Participation in the Arctic Research Group, alongside members from Nordland University and Nordland Research Institute, was another enriching aspect of my placement. This engagement provided a platform to present my research, participate in academic events, and contribute to collaborative discussions, further expanding my academic network and understanding of Arctic studies. The Svalbard Science Conference in Oslo was an experience which broaden my connections within the Arctic scientific community and deepening my appreciation for the diverse research methodologies and projects in this field.
Despite the numerous opportunities, integrating into long-term projects was challenging due to the limited duration of my placement. However, by focusing on the delivery of specific skills and knowledge, I was able to make meaningful contributions and continue my learning journey via meaningful discussions and meetings with the amazing colleagues in Bodo, Mo I Rana and Svolvær offices, who welcomed me with great warmth and interest.
My time at the Nordland Research Institute has been instrumental in deepening my understanding of the intersection between cartography and environmental research in the Arctic. The hands-on experiences and collaborative opportunities have significantly enriched my professional and academic development. Reflecting on my placement, I am grateful for the opportunity to apply my cartographic expertise in new contexts and for the broader perspective I gained on environmental research. I am excited to build on this foundation, seeking further collaboration and contributing to academic research with renewed insight and enthusiasm.
