The Ponant Explorations Group is pleased to announce an open call for scientific projects onboard the polar exploration vessel Le Commandant Charcot (LCC) in the Baltic Sea in November and December 2026. This project call is specifically for early career-led research projects and facilitated by the Association of Polar Early Career Scientists (APECS). Scientists from any discipline are encouraged to apply and applicants may apply for both available cruises. The scientific berths are offered free of charge, although travel and shipping expenses to the port of departure/arrival are at the participant’s cost.
You can find more information about the LCC and its research capabilities in the LCC Technical Prospectus. More details on the vessel’s itinerary, eligibility criteria for applicants, and requirements for proposed projects can be found here. Please also review the additional information provided at the end of this article carefully before applying.
As part of the application you need to upload a single PDF which includes:
- The completed application form (use this template)
- A CV for each applicant (use this template)
- A letter of support from your home institution
Please submit your application through this form by 12:00 CET on 15 May.
We encourage you to share this opportunity within your networks to help reach interested researchers. Please contact the APECS International Directorate at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with any questions about the application process and This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with any questions about the feasibility of your research proposal or logistics in relation to the LCC.
Preparing your application
Please verify with your home institution that they would be able to meet the insurance requirements necessary to embark: The Partner shall at his own cost and expense maintain an all-risk insurance with a reputable insurance company in terms with the market practice and with a coverage limit of at least €2.000.000. This insurance shall cover any damage or loss caused to Scientist (damage, injury, death), PONANT, its employees, passengers on board (damage, injury, death), the Vessel, its crew and equipment and any third party in relation to the performance of the Agreement. In addition, the Partner undertakes medical evacuation insurance, MEDEVAC format, applicable despite the ship's perilous sailing areas, to provide adequate medical care for the embarked scientists, following disembarkation, for medical needs.
Review of proposals
All applications will be reviewed and ranked by APECS. Shortlisted applications will subsequently be forwarded to Ponant Science for an evaluation of the logistical and scientific feasibility of the proposed research project. All applicants will receive an update on the status of their application by 19 June.
