Innovation at the Frontiers: Poles, Sea, and Space

Join Dr Nikita Chiu, Associate Professor in Space Innovation & Technology Governance, and Daniel Cron, deep sea explorer and Science Co-ordinator of Le Commandant Charcot - the world's first commercial Polar Class 2 icebreaking vessel for polar expeditions - for an evening of stimulating, interactive talks on innovating at the frontiers of Outer Space, Arctics, and Antarctica.

Nikita and Daniel, Founder and Founding Member of CN2i - Collaborative Network on Inclusive Innovation for Critical Operations, will recount engaging tales from innovating in high-performance, no-compromise critical industries (e.g. space, maritime), highlighting the role that social sciences, STEM and SHAPE perspectives play in advancing innovation in some of the most risk-averse critical domains (e.g. space and polar exploration).

There is an explorer in everyone of us!

In this event, Dr Chiu will be joined by Daniel Cron, deep sea explorer and science co-ordinator onboard Le Commandant Charcot - one of the world's most powerful icebreaking vessels (Polar class 2). Together and through a series of engaging stories, they will share with the audience the prospect and latest developments in frontier innovation that steer towards a more inclusive future for exploration activities. As a former analogue astronaut and astronaut selection candidate, 

Come join us for this engaging event. Space and arctic exploration are closer to us than you think!

This event is suitable for students and professionals interested in frontier innovation and exploration, from both SHAPE and STEM disciplines and sectors. Attendants will have the opportunity to gain insights into how to innovate within constraints in extreme environments. Those interested in venturing into frontier exploration will also be able to learn from Daniel and Nikita on how to chart your own career path, creating the job in frontier innovation and exploration that you love and are passionate about.

Dr Nikita Chiu, Associate Professor in Space Innovation & Technology Governance, Durham University

Adults - 18+

Anyone (18+) interested in innovation and frontier science and exploration

Email Convening Lead, Dr Nikita Chiu at sze.w.chiu@durham.ac.uk 

30th October 2025