British Antarctic Survey is committed to making polar science accessible through quality media partnerships.
We welcome journalists who share our dedication to accurate, engaging science communication to visit our research stations in Antarctica and the Arctic.
Where you can visit
- Antarctic stations: Rothera, Signy, Bird Island, and Halley
- Arctic station: Ny-Ålesund
- RRS Sir David Attenborough: The UK’s polar research ship
- Cambridge Headquarters: Facilities and laboratories
Who can apply
- Experienced media professionals with proven track records
- Journalists who have a firm commitment in writing from editors or broadcasters to publish or broadcast their proposed work
- Teams focused on science communication
BAS Media visit filming close to the Rothera Research Station on Adelaide Island, Antarctica
What we look for
- Large audiences: Priority given to UK and international publications/broadcasters
- Science focus: Understanding of polar research and science, and its relevance to society
- Quality proposals: Clear story ideas and target audience, well–defined plans and measurable impact
Application process
Journalists are selected through a competitive application process.
Interested journalists should contact the BAS Press Office to express interest and discuss your proposal. Please include your publication commitment, team information and technical requirements. You will then receive a formal application form.
Current opportunities
We are currently accepting applications from journalists and content creators for a media visit to Antarctica, from December 2026 – January 2027.
The six-week trip will run from mid-December 2026 to end of January 2027. Journalists will join the UK’s polar research ship RRS Sir David Attenborough in the Falkland Islands, and disembark in Punta Arenas, Chile. The trip will include:
- A visit to Rothera Research Station on the Antarctic Peninsula, the UK’s largest research station (approx. 4 days).
- A visit to Bird Island Research Station and King Edward Point Research Station on the island of South Georgia (approx. 8 days).
- Ship-based research expeditions focusing on underwater tsunamis caused by glacier calving (POLOMINTS) and collecting data for a long-term dataset to understand changes in the marine ecosystem around South Georgia, particularly measuring krill numbers (POETS-WCB)
There are spaces for two individuals. These could be allocated to two journalists from different outlets, or to one journalist and one accompanying team member, such as a photographer or camera operator, from the same outlet. Applicants should only request the number of places they need for their proposed coverage.
Conditions on board and at research stations are remote and physically demanding, and the itinerary is subject to change due to weather and operational requirements. Successful applicants will be required to pass a medical assessment and complete Personal Survival Techniques training.
How to apply
Interested journalists and creators should email the BAS Press Office at press@bas.ac.uk with no more than a two-page application outlining:
- what stories might be of interest
- what audience you would reach (size and demographic) and
- if you have support from a commissioning editor – media only
Applications must be submitted by Monday 31 August.
Successful applicants must cover approximate costs of around £3500 – £4000 that includes:
- Comprehensive medical
- Personal Survival Techniques training
- Flights, accommodation and subsistence at and to and from Falkland Islands/Punta Arenas
British Antarctic Survey will cover the cost of all other expenses including clothing, meals and accommodation (on the RRS Sir David Attenborough) between the Falkland Islands and Punta Arenas