12th scar open science conference & meetings | 8-19 august 2026 | oslo, norway

The SCAR Open Science Conference is where the Antarctic research community comes together. Join colleagues and friends in Oslo for an exciting programme of talks, workshops, and social events that celebrate our shared passion for understanding the Antarctic region.

Oslo cityscape
SCAR open science conference - The Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research

scar open science conference

The SCAR Open Science Conferences offer scientists from various disciplines and countries the opportunity to present their work, network and participate actively in SCAR’s scientific activities.

SCAR and the Norwegian Polar Institute warmly invite you to the 12th SCAR Open Science Conference, taking place in Oslo, Norway, from 8–19 August 2026, where we will gather under the theme “Diving into Antarctic Science – Making Waves for the Future.”

Join colleagues from around the world for a rich and varied programme, from plenary lectures and mini-symposia to parallel sessions, panels, posters, and an inspiring social programme in and around Oslo.

About

the venue

The Open Science Conference 2026 will take place at Clarion Hotel The Hub, a premier business hotel situated in the heart of Oslo, Norway. Located just steps from Oslo Central Station, it offers exceptional accessibility and is surrounded by vibrant shops, eateries, and cultural attractions. The Hub is also known for its strong focus on sustainability, with eco-friendly practices and a rooftop urban garden that reflect Oslo’s commitment to green innovation.

Special accommodation rates are available for conference attendees at Clarion Hotel The Hub, as well as at nearby hotels and guesthouses catering to a range of budgets.

Clarion Hotel The Hub Accommodation DIscounts
Clarian Hotel

Conference News & Opportunities

Norway

Plastics in Polar Environments Early Career Award

The SCAR Plastics in Polar Environments Expert Group (SPEG) is offering a prize for both the best talk and best poster presented in the two plastic pollution sessions.
Clarion Hotel Lobby

Partner Travel Grants

Applications for SCAR travel grants have now closed, but there's still time to apply for travel grants provided by our partners.

Programme at A Glance

8-9 & 16 August:
Business Meetings & Satellite Events

A space for SCAR groups and programmes & partners to meet and discuss their business + extended workshops and satellite events.

10-14 August:
Open Science Conference

Five days of inspiring talks, hands-on workshops, poster sessions, and lively conversations that spark new ideas and collaborations across Antarctic science.

15 August:
Science Group Business Meetings

A day for our SCAR Science Groups to share progress, align priorities, and kick-start joint projects with colleagues from around the world.

17–19 August:
Delegates Meeting

SCAR Delegates gather to review outcomes, make key decisions, and help set SCAR’s direction for the coming years.

Key dates

01 December 2025 | Call for abstract opens

Share your latest research and ideas with the polar science community! Submit an abstract and be part of shaping the SCAR Open Science Conference 2026 programme.

31 January 2026 | Satellite & Weekend Events

The call for satellite events & weekend workshop closes.

28 February 2026 | Call for abstract closes

Final chance to submit your abstract! Don’t miss the opportunity to present your work and connect with researchers from across the globe.

16 March 2026 | Travel Grant Applications close

Applications close for a range of travel grants provided by our SCAR groups and partners.

February 2026 | Early-bird registration opens

Secure your spot early and take advantage of discounted registration rates.

May 2026 | Regular registration opens

If you missed the early-bird window, don’t worry – regular registration is now open.

10-14 August 2026 | Open Science Conference

The main event! Join us for a week of inspiring talks, posters, and networking in Oslo, Norway.

why attend

PLENARY LECTURES & MINI-SYMPOSIA

Daily keynotes and mini-symposia from leading Antarctic scientists and policymakers will frame major themes and highlight cross-disciplinary priorities for the SCAR community.

PARALLEL SESSIONS, WORKSHOPS & MORE

Concurrent thematic sessions and workshops let you dive deep into focused topics, from oceanography and cryosphere dynamics to socio-ecological studies and polar governance. Choose talks that match your niche or broaden your perspective.

POSTER EXHIBITS

Showcase your research and explore others’ work in the poster hall. Get direct feedback from peers and connect with authors during lively poster presentation sessions.

Thank you to our partners