The Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center is an Office of Research center at The Ohio State University focused on maintaining research excellence and supporting public engagement in polar and climate studies at Ohio State. The Byrd Center promotes interdisciplinary research across campus and provides dedicated and expert project support, including
- assistance with proposal preparation and submission
- finances, human resources, purchasing and travel
- shipping, customs and compliance
- information technology and systems management
- field and research equipment fabrication and maintenance
- meeting and workshop organization and facilities
- office and laboratory space
- an extensive library and archives of polar science and exploration
- public outreach and communications.
The Byrd Center's support staff and facilities are housed at Scott Hall, along with several research groups and their laboratories. The Center's services are available to any Ohio State University Principal Investigator conducting research within the Center's scope. Those interested in submitting proposals through the Byrd Center should contact the Center Director for more information.
Our History
The Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center, originally established in 1960 as the Institute of Polar Studies, was the first research center at The Ohio State University. In 1987, the institute was renamed the Byrd Polar Research Center, a change inspired by the University's acquisition of a significant collection of expedition records, personal papers, and memorabilia related to Admiral Richard E. Byrd from the estate of Marie A. Byrd, the admiral's late wife. The Center's increasing involvement in climate research led to a further name change in 2014, becoming the Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center.
To learn more about the Center's history, explore the History Corner for insights into how a polar research institution was founded in Ohio. Additionally, the Knowledge Bank at the University Libraries offers detailed information about the history of the Institute of Polar Studies from 1960 to 1969, and the Polar Timeline provides a thorough account of the Center's development over the years.
Our Mission
The mission of the Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center is to engage in world-leading research, education and outreach that enhance Ohio State’s programs in
- polar and alpine regions
- cryospheric processes
- reconstruction of past climates
- climate variability and change
- the impacts of climate on the environment and society
The mission is achieved by fostering a collaborative, interdisciplinary and inclusive community of investigators with expert project support, specialized facilities and synergistic programs that engage with a diverse audience.
