Marginal Ice Zone Dynamics Working Group

An IACS-sponsored international research collaboration

MATRIX Research Workshop 2026

Join us for our flagship in-person research program at MATRIX, Creswick, Victoria.

21 September - 2 October 2026

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About Our Working Group

The Marginal Ice Zone (MIZ) is the dynamic transition region between the open ocean and pack ice, where waves, currents, and ice interact in complex ways. Understanding these processes is critical for predicting how polar regions respond to climate change.

Our IACS-approved working group brings together international experts in mathematical modelling, physical oceanography, and cryospheric science to advance our understanding of MIZ dynamics through collaborative research.

Read our accepted proposal on the IACS website

Research Focus

  • Wave-Ice Interactions
    Mathematical models of how ocean waves propagate through and break up sea ice
  • Floe Size Distribution
    Understanding the evolution and statistics of ice floe sizes
  • Biogeochemical Feedbacks
    How MIZ dynamics affect ocean chemistry and ecosystems
  • Climate Modelling
    Improving MIZ representation in global climate models

Milestones

  • May 2024
    Working group officially approved by IACS Bureau
  • October 2024
    First Virtual Conference - 24 participants, 12 speakers across 3 sessions
  • May 2025
    MATRIX Research Program application accepted
  • September 2026
    In-person workshop at MATRIX, Victoria

MATRIX Partnership

Our 2026 research program is generously sponsored by MATRIX, Australia's international research institute for the mathematical sciences.

Over 10 days of focused workshops and collaborative sessions, participants will develop advanced mathematical frameworks for MIZ processes, integrate theory with observational data, and identify critical research priorities.

Get Involved

We welcome researchers interested in the dynamics of the marginal ice zone. Whether you're a mathematical modeller, physical oceanographer, or field scientist, there are opportunities to contribute.

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