A debriefing session for the “Swiss Alps Glacier Field Training Program,” conducted in August–September 2026, was held at the Institute of Low Temperature Science, Hokkaido University. The event brought together not only the students who participated in this year’s field training, but also alumni of past Swiss programs, as well as many students and researchers from across Japan who joined after seeing the online announcement.
During the session, the nine participating students were divided into four groups, each presenting the outcomes of their respective themes.
The session began with an overview of the field training. Mr. Nagata, Mr. Shiozaki (Hokkaido University), and Ms. Asao (SOKENDAI) summarized the 15‑day program day by day.
Next, Mr. Oka and Ms. Ebihara (SOKENDAI) gave an online presentation on their observations of snow–ice microorganisms at the Rhône Glacier. This was the first year that the training included observations focusing on microbial activity.
There were moments when sharp questions were raised by program alumni.
Ms. Kondo (Hokkaido University) and Mr. Ogihara (Tohoku University) presented their analysis of glacier responses to air temperature and snowfall, based on GPS data collected at the Rhône Glacier.
Finally, Mr. Niiya and Mr. Li (Hokkaido University) concluded the session with a five‑minute video compiling photos and clips from all participants, offering an enjoyable reflection on the training experience.
More detailed daily records of the field training are available in the participants’ field diaries.
Click here for the 2026 Swiss Glacier Field Training Diary. (Japanese Only)
Click here for details about the Swiss Glacier Field Training Program.
