Call for application: Workshop on energy balance modelling of permafrost environments in the HKH

Permafrost, frozen ground that remains at or below 0° Celsius for two or more years, is an important component of the cryosphere across the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region, but direct field-based monitoring in the Himalayan ranges remains limited. Recent permafrost-related hazards and compound events have highlighted the need to strengthen regional capacity in permafrost observation, modelling, interpretation, and risk-informed research.

The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) has been engaged in permafrost research and capacity building across the HKH since 2013, mapping its distribution, risks, and vulnerabilities. In its Medium-Term Action Plan V (2023–2026), ICIMOD identifies permafrost thaw as an emerging climate risk under the cryosphere and water risks theme, emphasising its impacts on infrastructure and communities and prioritising research, monitoring, modelling, and policy integration.

To support these priorities and strengthen regional expertise in permafrost science, ICIMOD is organising a three-day regional workshop on surface energy balance modelling in permafrost environments. Designed for participants actively engaged in permafrost-related research, the workshop will strengthen capacity in numerical modelling, field-based interpretation, and application of energy balance approaches to Himalayan permafrost environments. The workshop will be relevant to those seeking to apply these methods in research, monitoring, and related cryosphere studies across the HKH region.
Through lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on exercises, participants will gain practical exposure to surface energy balance modelling using a numerical model, including model setup, input data preparation, simulation of surface energy fluxes, snow and ground temperature dynamics, model evaluation, and interpretation for Himalayan permafrost settings during the workshop. To build regional capacity in these critical skills, ICIMOD therefore invites applications from participants from the HKH region to attend this regional workshop.

Who can apply?

Early-career scientists and researchers, PhD scholars, and master’s-level students working on permafrost-related topics, preferably in the HKH region.

Application requirements

Applicants must complete the online application form and upload:

• A curriculum vitae (maximum two pages) highlighting academic background, research experience, relevant technical skills, and any publications or other similar outputs
• A motivation statement (300–500 words) describing the applicant’s current permafrost-related work, research interests, and how the workshop will support their research and professional development
• Supervisor’s declaration confirming the applicant’s involvement in permafrost-related research

Application deadline: 15 June 2026

Note: Application must be submitted through the designated online application portal. Submissions sent via other channels, incomplete applications, or late submissions will not be considered.

Workshop details

Dates: 27-29 July | Venue: ICIMOD, Kathmandu, Nepal

Participants must bring their laptops as the workshop will have both the theoretical sessions and practical hands-on exercises.

ICIMOD will cover travel and accommodation expenses and will provide daily subsistence allowance as per its policy.

Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

ICIMOD is committed to promoting diversity, equity and inclusion, and offers equal opportunities to applicants from all backgrounds and walks of life, including but not limited to gender, age, national origin, religion, race, caste, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability or social status. ICIMOD strongly encourages applications from all eligible applicants, especially women, from all parts of the HKH region.