The Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG, German Research Foundation) is extending the Infrastructure Priority Programme "Antarctic Research with Comparative Investigations in Arctic Ice Areas" (SPP 1158) for six years, from 2025 to 2030. This program supports interdisciplinary research to understand the polar regions' role in the global climate. Proposals can be submitted annually from autumn 2024 for funding periods of up to three years.

Focus and Objectives

The SPP 1158 aims to facilitate German researchers' participation in international polar research, particularly for those in early career stages. It provides access to Antarctica and the necessary infrastructure through partner institutions. The program seeks to clarify Antarctica’s role within the Earth system through focused research.

Proposed research projects should align with one or more of the following overarching topics: Dynamics of Climate System Components, Response to Environmental Change, Connectivity and Exchange in Polar Systems, and Improved Understanding of Polar Processes and Mechanisms. Geology proposals should focus on Antarctica’s more recent history (no older than approximately 34 million years).

These topics are supported by over 60 specific research questions, ensuring a comprehensive approach to understanding polar processes. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and the integration of various scientific disciplines.

Coordination Workshop

A coordination workshop will be held from 28 September to 30 September 2025 in Bremerhaven, Germany. This workshop is mandatory for new project applicants and those submitting renewal proposals. Current SPP 1158 funded researchers are also required to attend.

Applicants must give an oral 5-minute presentation, and current researchers must present a poster. Registration for the workshop is required by 10 August 2025. Further information and registration details can be found on the SPP website.

The workshop aims to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among researchers in the program. It provides a platform to discuss research progress, challenges, and future directions.

Proposal Submission

Proposals must be written in English and submitted to the DFG via the elan portal by 10 November 2025. To submit a proposal, navigate to Proposal Submission – New Project/Draft Proposal – Priority Programmes and select “SPP 1158/24 Infrastructure area – Antarctic Research with comparative investigations in Arctic ice areas”.

Refer to the programme guidelines (DFG form 50.05, section B) and proposal preparation instructions (DFG form 54.01) when preparing your proposal. If this is your first time submitting to the DFG, you must register in the elan portal by 31 October 2025.

Ensure all required documents are prepared according to the DFG guidelines. Early registration on the elan portal is strongly advised to avoid any last-minute issues.

Eligibility and Funding

The program is open to researchers from German universities, universities of applied sciences, and research institutions. The DFG welcomes proposals from researchers of all genders, backgrounds, and career stages. Female researchers are particularly encouraged to submit proposals.

Funding is available for up to three years. The program supports research projects aligned with the overarching topics of the SPP 1158. The DFG emphasizes equity and diversity in its funding decisions.

DFG funding may only be awarded to research institutions that have implemented the guidelines laid down in the Code of Conduct for Safeguarding Good Research Practice in their own regulations.