Meet the Team
Founders
Michaela Louise Coote
Research interests:
Environmental protection, peace, sustainable development, inter/trans/cross-ontological co-production, science diplomacy, networks, Arctic governance,.
About myself:
I was born in the UK where I focused on environmental consultancy. I moved to Iceland when I was 22 where I spent 7 years working on Arctic issues including concerning the Arctic Council and marine topics. I then moved to Ireland to work as a forest school teacher before continuing in Arctic research within Finland.
With over 15 years engagement in Arctic research, I have led major international collaboration projects, spoke and organised numerous conference engagements and advised national governments on strategic activities in the Arctic.
My passions include anything outdoors including hiking, climbing, surfing, ice-skating, camping...
Yulia Zaika
Research interests:
Northern identity, sustainable development of the northern and Arctic communities (indigenous people, residents of villages and cities), cross-border connections and cooperation, international scientific and humanitarian cooperation
About myself:
I was born in the Arctic, in the fourth generation of northern residents, and my family has been living in these territories for 100 years. I identify myself as a Northern woman with a deep family history. I love traveling, meeting new people, and listening to the unique life stories of others. I love the Arctic with all my soul and have visited all the Arctic countries and various northern territories with their unexplored routes and history.
My international scientific work began with the International Polar Year 2007-2008, and since that time I have helped organize several international field campaigns in the Arctic, led and participated in several scientific and youth projects, written books and articles.
Despite its extreme natural conditions, theArctic unites!