The Arctic Geophysics research class is an unparalleled experience that allows our students to study the overall energy balance of our planet. In this class, our talented students design and build their own equipment, which they deploy on arctic sea ice in Alaska, at the northernmost point in the United States! This unique experience allows lead faculty – Dr. Rhett Herman – to work closely with and mentor a small group of students, providing them personal attention while they build their project. 

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Students who participate return to campus to present their findings during the Annual Radford University Student Engagement Forum in April. They gain the relevant academic knowledge, skills and critical thinking abilities they need to be career-ready and engaged citizens upon graduation.

The vital insight gained from this opportunity positions our students on the forefront of the research industry and expands their understanding of practical research. Unfortunately, many of our talented students are not able to benefit from this valuable practical learning due to the significant cost. Your financial support of the Arctic Geophysics project enables us to preserve the tradition of providing this first-class research expedition for current and future students.

Athena Smith '26

Physics dean's Scholar, Artis College Distinguished Student, Elevate Research Mentor

"With all this amazing research from the Physics Department and the greatest help from Dr. Herman, I was interviewed in November 2025 for a full-time position at NAVSEA as a research geophysicist. The interview heavily focused on my experience with Alaska and how I learned so much about coding, engineering, troubleshooting, and honestly failing but later succeeding! They were impressed with the skills I have acquired, and I am looking forward to using my skills that I used from the Physics Department here in the Artis College of Science and Technology in my new job supporting the US Navy after graduation!"

INDIVIDUAL STUDENT COSTS

A donation in any of these amounts could alleviate the following:

• $157 – one night’s lodging
• $100 – one land-use permit (each student requires one)
• $120 – project build cost (parts, supplies, etc.)
• $30 – breakfast/lunch per day
• $20 – one evening meal in the Ilisagvik College Cafeteria
• $180 – one pair of Black Diamond Guide Gloves for proper hand protection
• $80 – one pair of “bunny boots” for appropriate foot protection
• $1,400 – plane ticket

GROUP EXPENSES

• $100 – van fuel
• $210/week – hand-held radios (x2 weeks)
• $600/week – equipment storage (x2 weeks)
• $1,672/week – van rental (x2 weeks)
• $1,800 – equipment shipping to/from Utqiagvik (approx. $900 each way)

Please consider making this opportunity accessible for more students by reducing the financial commitment with your donation today!