About British Antarctic Survey

A red twin otter plane landing on skis

British Antarctic Survey (BAS) delivers and enables world-leading interdisciplinary research in the Polar Regions. Its skilled science and support staff based in Cambridge, Antarctica and the Arctic, work together to deliver research that uses the Polar Regions to advance our understanding of Earth and our impact on it. BAS is a component of the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC). NERC is part of UK Research and Innovation

Who we are

British Antarctic Survey strives to uncover the secrets of the polar regions and help global society adapt to environmental change.

RRS Sir David Attenborough sailing through pack ice

Where we work

From the poles to the Amazon, explore how BAS advances global science and our understanding of climate and ecosystems.

Traverse convoy crossing Antarctic Ice Shelf

Sustainability

Our sustainability strategy pervades everything we do, from polar research to sourcing food for the canteen at our Cambridge headquarters. 

An Antarctic sunset. The ice shelf meets the sea with mountains in the background

Environmental protection

We are deeply committed to protecting the unique and majestic environment of Antarctica while conducting world-class science.

Seals on an iceberg

Antarctic Treaty

The Antarctic Treaty System is a framework of agreements that preserves Antarctica as a continent dedicated to peaceful scientific inquiry.

A colony of penguins stood on ice

History of British Antarctic Survey

The United Kingdom has a long and distinguished record of scientific exploration in Antarctica.

dog sledge travel from the 1940s

Services

We have deep expertise and experience of conducting long-term scientific work in the polar regions. Making us an ideal partner for research and logistics collaborations.

SDA in the Lemaire Channel, Antarctica

Education and schools

British Antarctic Survey Ice-Cool Cyber School, National Curriculum award winning resources for teachers and students

An iceberg

Equality diversity and inclusion

A diverse and inclusive workforce is essential for tackling global challenges, and ensures our operations are safe and successful.

A person sitting posing for the camera

Innovation through partnership

Innovation shapes both our current decisions and our long-term plans. We make sure innovation is built into everything we do.

BAS briefings to the UKRI CEO during a visit to BAS Cambridge

Our impact

Impact assessments showcasing how BAS addresses big issues and informs policy makers, through science knowledge, technologies and innovation.

The RRS Sir David Attenborough in Antarctica