10th (anniversary) EGU Snow Science Winter School 2026 ¶

The Snow Science Winter School provides early career scientists with training in modern techniques for snow characterization, supporting research in fields such as polar studies, hydrology, climate science, remote sensing, and avalanche dynamics. The training combines classroom-based theoretical lessons with field practice in small groups of 3–4 students, focusing on modern measurement techniques such as high-resolution penetrometry, optical instruments for determining snow specific surface area, and X-ray tomography. Beyond technical knowledge, the school emphasizes the development of critical thinking skills through the analysis, comparison, and discussion of collected field data, complemented by additional inputs such as model simulations and satellite observations. In 2026, the school will celebrate its 10th anniversary.

The course is designed for graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, working in snow and cryosphere-related disciplines, who plan to conduct field measurements of snow or use such data in their research. In exceptional cases, undergraduate students may also be considered. 

The Snow School follows a well-established daily structure: classroom lectures in the morning, hands-on field experiments in the afternoon, and data analysis in the evening. Students are supervised by a team of lecturers, experts in various snow-related fields.

Field measurements will be conducted in small groups of 3–4 students. Each group will prepare a report summarizing the methods, results, and interpretation of the data collected during the week. To make the most of the course, participants are expected to review the provided materials in advance.

The course is equivalent to 3 ECTS credits. To receive full credit, participants must submit a report requiring approximately 40 hours of work, which will be evaluated.

• Dr. Marie Dumont (CNRM, France)
• Dr. Anna Kontu (FMI, Finland)
• Dr. Juha Lemmetyinen (FMI, Finland)
• Dr. Neige Calonne (C NRM, France)
• Dr. Fabian Wolfsperger (WSL-SLF, Switzerland)
• Dr. Benjamin Walter (WSL-SLF, Switzerland)

The participation fee is CHF 450, which includes accommodation, meals, and local transportation. Participants are responsible for covering their own travel expenses to Davos.

Due to the limited number of places and the high level of interest, admission to the course follows a two-step process:

1. Application – The application period was open from 15th of September to 15th of October 2025. The applicants will fill an online form accessible via this web page, stating their background and motivation for the course. The applications will be reviewed by the school scientific committee at the end of the application period. Late applications cannot unfortunately be considered.

2. Registration – Based on the committee’s assessment, selected applicants will receive an invitation to register by November 7, 2025. Registration must be completed by November 21, 2025, 24:00 UTC. After this deadline, unconfirmed places will be offered to other candidates." 

As the course relies heavily on fieldwork, participants are required to:

1. Bring their own winter gear suitable for snowy and cold conditions (e.g., layered warm clothing, windproof outerwear, snow boots, thick gloves or mittens, thermal underwear, etc.).

2. Be prepared to spend several hours outdoors in winter conditions during field activities.

3. Hold valid travel and health insurance

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