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Ottawa, Ontario (November 1, 2012)

 Canadian Polar Commission Chairperson Bernard Funston today announced the transfer of responsibility for the Northern Scientific Training Program (NSTP) and the Northern Science Award from Aboriginal and Northern Affairs Canada to the Canadian Polar Commission.

"The Northern Scientific Training Program has a stellar history of building and renewing excellence in northern research in Canada," said Mr. Funston, "and the Northern Science Award has honoured some of our most distinguished northern experts -- scientists and indigenous northerners. I'm excited to bring both these programs on board as we revitalize the Commission to make it Canada's primary national institution dedicated to polar knowledge."

"I am pleased to see the Northern Scientific Training Program moving its important work to the Canadian Polar Commission,'' said Aboriginal Affairs Minister John Duncan, "It is fitting that the Canadian Polar Commission, which is Canada's national institution for furthering polar knowledge and awareness, should carry on the fine work of the Northern Scientific Training Program."

The Northern Scientific Training Program, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, helps university students defray the higher costs of doing research in the North. Since 1962 it has been introducing southern students to the north and northern students to research - in the physical, life, and human sciences - and has played a crucial role in making Canada a world leader in polar knowledge. Each year the NSTP assists hundreds of students from over 35 institutions, enabling them to gain practical experience and understanding of the North. For many students this has sparked a lifelong passion, and former NSTP recipients form the backbone of Canada's polar research community.

As the Northern Scientific Training Program moves to a new home at the Canadian Polar Commission, its funding, operations, application process, and staff will remain unchanged. The transfer will take place on April 1 2013, and the Commission is working closely with Aboriginal and Northern Affairs Canada to ensure a seamless transition.

The Northern Science Award, established in 1982, recognizes those who have made a significant contribution to knowledge and understanding of the Canadian North. The award comprises the Centenary Medal, which commemorates the 100^th anniversary of the first International Polar Year (1882-83), and a $10,000 prize. The award will be presented annually beginning in 2013. More information will be available on the Commission's website later this fall.

Northern Science Award

The Northern Science Award, established in 1982, recognizes those who have made a significant contribution to knowledge and understanding of the Canadian North. Learn more...