Today, January 24, 2026, a group of four researchers from the National Institute for Research and Development for Biological Sciences (INCDSB) and the University of Bucharest (UB) set off on the 5th scientific mission to Antarctica (ROICE 2026) at the base of the Korean Antarctic Institute in King Sejong, Barton Peninsula, one of the most important regions for the study of climate change and extreme ecosystems. It is the 5th expedition organised by INCDSB. All four members of the team are also members of the Romanian Society of Bioengineering and Biotechnology, actively contributing to the development of Romanian biological research.

The four team members are:

• Dr. Iris Maria Tusa
• Dr. Roxana Elena Vrâncianu
• Dr. Georgiana Grigore
• Dr. Ovidiu Claudiu Vrâncianu

Participating in this expedition represents a significant step for the scientific community in Romania, offering valuable research opportunities in areas such as the biology of organisms adapted to extreme conditions, microbial biodiversity, the impact of climate change and survival mechanisms in polar environments.

The data and samples collected will contribute to national and international research projects, strengthening scientific collaborations and Romania’s visibility in polar research.

The expedition highlights the commitment of Romanian researchers to scientific excellence and active involvement in global efforts to understand and protect the environment.

We wish them a safe trip!