Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute (AAUI) is a leading scientific institution specializing in polar research. With a history dating back to 1920 in the Arctic and 1956 in Antarctica, AAUI has been at the forefront of studying the polar regions. In 1994, it was designated as a state scientific center by the Russian Federation.

As a comprehensive research institute, AAUI conducts a wide range of studies, from climate research and atmospheric processes to space and marine environment exploration. Their scientific divisions focus on fundamental and applied research, while their observatories and annual expeditions enable comprehensive environmental monitoring. AAUI also houses an ice basin for experiments on ice loads and vessel-ice interaction.

Additionally, they have developed the automated Ice Informational System Sever to safely navigate Arctic waters. The institute also organizes regular maritime expeditions to both the Arctic and Antarctica, using their research vessels, Akademik Fedorov and Akademik Treshnikov. In Antarctica, they operate five year-round research stations and conduct important scientific discoveries, such as the exploration of Lake Vostok.

AAUI is actively involved in nurturing young scientists through targeted training programs and competitions. Their team of passionate researchers consistently publishes in renowned scientific journals and participates in major polar conferences. With a shared love for polar science, AAUI is dedicated to advancing knowledge about the Arctic and Antarctic regions