US Homeland Security Explores Arctic Research Partnership in Norway

Under Secretary Dimitri Kusnezov of the US Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology Directorate made a second visit within a year to Tromsø, Northern Norway, to explore Arctic research possibilities at UiT, the Arctic University of Norway.

Kusnezov and his team engaged in discussions with UiT researchers on a variety of Arctic topics, including climate change and hybrid threats, aiming to build knowledge for policy development in light of evolving global circumstances.

Key aspects of the US Department of Homeland Security’s interest are gaining insights into Arctic transformations and leveraging Norwegian expertise, particularly given Norway’s profound understanding of the Arctic region, as emphasized by Kusnezov.

Jan-Gunnar Winther, UiT’s Pro-Rector of Science and Development, welcomed the opportunity for collaboration with the DHS, citing the establishment of a new Center of Excellence for Homeland Security in the Arctic at the University of Alaska, funded with $46 million over a decade by the DHS S&T.

Moreover, DHS S&T has been working closely with various Norwegian research institutions and government bodies involved in Arctic research, including the Norwegian Polar Institute, FRAM, NTNU, Kongsberg Satellite Services, and the Arctic Council Secretariat, in line with Kusnezov’s agenda.

A masterclass in Arctic research topics was delivered to Kusnezov and the S&T delegation by UiT researchers, reinforcing the valuable collaboration between the US and Norway in advancing Arctic knowledge.