The University of Akureyri Research Centre (RHA) is an independent centre within the University of Akureyri (UNAK). It was established in 1992 and has conducted numerous research projects, surveys and consultations for companies, organisations and ministries both domestically and through foreign research grants and networks both independently and in cooperation with others.
The main goal of RHA is to enhance the UNAK research capabilities and to strengthen the University’s ties to the local and national economy. Furthermore, RHA assists and leads in the development of new projects and centres within the University. Among such projects is the Northern Research Forum (NRF).
Key words: #research #consultation #science #cooperation #surveys #conferences
Arctic research environment
RHA is located in the Borgir research building on the UNAK campus along with diverse institutes and centres, among whom are the, Icelandic Institute for Natural History, Stefanssons Arctic Institute, the International Arctic Science Committee (IASC), the offices of the Arctic Council; CAFF and PAME and the Icelandic Arctic Cooperation Network (IACN). In fact a cluster of institutes and centres with Arctic emphasis has been forming in this location making Akureyri one of the leading places in Arctic research.
Main research interests and competences
- Climate change and its impacts;
- Demography;
- Education;
- Gender studies;
- Labour market;
- Municipal government;
- Regional development and regional policy;
- Social- and environmental impacts;
- Tourism research;
- Transport infrastructure, its development and impacts.
Main Arctic projects
RHA has a cross-disciplinary focus in many of its projects as is reflected by the diverse background of its staff members. The institute has taken part in diverse international projects usually within European or Nordic frameworks. RHA holds 8-9 staff members. RHA works closely with faculty members of UNAK which often cooperate with the institute in research projects.
Main publications and reports
Website
- The web-site of the organization is www.rha.is
RHA in social media
Director
Name: Dr. Guðrún Rósa Þórsteinsdóttir
Job title: Director
Email: gudrunth[at]unak.is
Telephone: +354 460-8901