Since 2007, Masaryk University (MUNI) has operated a research station on the Ulu Peninsula in the northern part of James Ross Island—a large deglaciated area near the Antarctic Peninsula. MUNI is not a novice in Antarctic research, its research activities on the continent date back to 1994, utilizing other national stations.
The Antarctic research center facilitates long-term environmental monitoring and multidisciplinary studies. It focuses on both abiotic and biotic components, examining their interactions and the overall functioning of the ecosystem, including predictions of its future development.
The Johann Gregor Mendel Czech Antarctic Station, named after a founder of modern genetics and pioneering meteorologist from Brno, provides essential facilities for scientific research, including both “dry” and “wet” laboratories equipped with necessary laboratory instruments.
In addition to the base on Ross Island, MUNI owns a field camp, “CZ*ECO Nelson”, which is located on Nelson Island in the South Shetland Islands. Due to exposure to strong western winds and temperate air masses, the climate here is warmer and more oceanic compared to the more continental climate of Ross Island. This facility has a capacity of approx. 8 people and enables scientists to conduct comparative studies across different Antarctic regions, providing valuable insights into the impacts of climate change on various ecosystems.
Each year, during the Austral summer (typically from January to mid-March), a team of around 20 researchers travels to the station. Scientists spend five to nine weeks at the base, conducting research as part of Masaryk University’s Antarctic expeditions, as well as other national and international academic institutions.
Expedition 2025: New Frontiers in Antarctic Research
Expedition 2025 aims to continue long-term climate monitoring and conduct a comprehensive assessment of polar geo- and ecosystems. This includes studying local glaciers, permafrost, areas where lower plants are emerging, river and lake systems, and other geomorphological formations. A key addition this year is research on the spread of avian influenza (bird flu) in Antarctica, carried out in collaboration with Spanish colleagues, with our team responsible for sample collection. Additionally, the expedition will support research on marine and terrestrial algae, led by a colleague from the University of Haifa in Israel.
Tested in Antarctica
The station pursues its own research programme and is also used for testing products and technologies for industrial and application purposes. The researchers test, for example, the durability of newly developed coatings and plastics, outdoor equipment, or the use of green energy sources and other technologies in extreme conditions. Those that pass the tests can receive the trademark “Tested in Antarctica” from Masaryk University.