COLDEX Oldest Ice Science Short Course

COLDEX Oldest Ice Science Short Course 2026
Ice Dynamics and Modeling

Ice dynamics modeling is a powerful tool for understanding glacier and ice sheet behavior, yet early career researchers (ECRs) often face a steep learning curve in determining which models are appropriate for their research questions, what assumptions underlie different approaches, and how to get started. This workshop is designed to help participants develop literacy around ice dynamics models, empowering them to make informed decisions about modeling in their own research.

Dates: 1.5 days from Thursday, August 6 - Friday, August 7, 2026

Location: University of Texas, Austin (Austin, Texas)

Please apply by May 1.

Eligibility: Participants should identify as an early career researcher (e.g. undergraduate or graduate student, postdoctoral scholar, or similar) with research interests related to ice dynamics. No prior modeling experience is required. Applications will be evaluated based on the applicant's research interests, how ice dynamics modeling could benefit their work, and their potential to apply workshop knowledge in their research.

Travel & Costs: Local workshop costs will be covered for all in-person participants, including meals and refreshments. Remote participation will be available. Limited funding is available for travel and lodging for in-person participants. 

The deadline for applications is May 1. Applicants will be notified of acceptance and funding decisions by June 1. 

Questions? Contact COLDEX Director for Education, Dr. Keely Corder (keely.corder@oregonstate.edu)

People standing and smiling at the camera in front of a coastline with green grass

Participants and instructors from the 2023 Oldest Ice Science Short Course on Whidbey Island, Washington.

Students examine a map of Antarctica
An instructor points to an ice dome on a projector screen in front of a classroom of students
Students perform a skit outside in the center of a circle of their peers
An instructor leads a group storytelling exercise among a circle of students

Resources and Frequently Asked Questions for participants

  • Before and during the short course, contact Keely Corder (keely.corder@oregonstate.edu)

    After the short course, contact Tricia Torris about any clarification needed for reimbursement (torrist@oregonstate.edu)

  • TBD

  • TBA

  • TBA

  • From 2024: Please see the attached 3 minute video explaining how to get to the service center from 30th street - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6xVl-vb8p0g

    (please ignore that I say hi to everyone from Project Ice and also that it is very shaky!)

    You will also receive an email from the OSU Housing Office with specific instructions, especially for those of you who will arrive after the service center is closed.

  • From 2024: The majority of our time will be spent in Burt Hall room 193.

    You can check out a very quick YouTube tour of Burt 193 here:
    https://youtu.be/vWDLqAVVTXw

    The accessibility pluses for this room are:

    • great natural light

    • large projector screen with additional large screen monitor showing duplicate material

    • close proximity to a parking lot

    • very close proximity to bathrooms (20 feet) and filtered water station (50 feet)

    • In the College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences (CEOAS) at OSU, which is across the street from where the COLDEX annual meeting reception will be on September 8 at 6 pm (see more about the COLDEX annual meeting below).

    One challenge:

    • The chairs have small side desks common in larger lecture halls ("left" and "right" are available)

    We will also be in the Marine and Geology Repository (MGR), where you may be stepping into an ice core freezer (temperature around 0 degrees F). We will travel to the MGR together in two, 12 person university vans during the afternoon on Day 1 (September 7).

  • From 2024: There will be multiple networking opportunities and so we suggest you wear business casual clothing. The dorm is 0.5 miles from Burt Hall, so bring comfortable walking shoes. Layers will also be helpful as early September in Corvallis, OR can still be quite warm (75 to more than 90 degrees Fahrenheit) but the buildings will be air-conditioned.

    Check out Google Maps directions from West Hall to Burt Hall here.

  • TBA

  • Here is the Google site for the COLDEX annual meeting.: TBA