Research

All of NIVA's activities are based on scientific research. Environmental problems are inherently complex and therefore require a multidisciplinary approach as well as the ongoing development of new knowledge. Our most important areas of research are on the effects of climate change, biodiversity and environmental contaminants.

NIVA offers a broad spectrum of services within water-related issues. Our research domain includes chemistry, biology, physics, mathematical modelling and the social sciences.  

As a research institute our strengths include:

• broad multidisciplinary competence
• a large research environment
• long-term data series and results from environmental monitoring
• scientific publication of research results

NIVA has a comprehensive infrastructure at its disposition. For instance we have a large selection of fieldwork equipment, laboratories and an advanced marine research station. NIVA also has experience in carrying out small-scale laboratory experiments and large-scale ecosystem experiments.

Research yields new knowledge

By conducting research NIVA perpetually develops new competence, new methods and new models to deal with tomorrow's demands for research-based solutions. We have extensive experience in converting knowledge into practical advice.

We use experiments, models and monitoring results to generate new knowledge. Long-term data series from environmental monitoring projects make a vital contribution to our research. 

The publication of results in international peer-reviewed journals helps ensure the quality of our research.

EU research projects and international projects

NIVA partakes in the international development of knowledge through our participation in EU research programmes. We are involved in a number of international fora where we build and share competence within networks of professional organisations and public administration agencies.

NIVA has been a part of EU projects related to for instance:

• implementation of the EU Water Framework Directive
• the administration of water resources
• climate effects and trends in high mountain lakes
• the circulation of nutrient salts and carbon in precipitation fields
• ecotoxicological testing
• environmental monitoring using sensors mounted on ships of opportunity (Ferrybox)

Funding research

NIVA performs research on commission from local and central government, business and industry, through grants from the Research Council of Norway, by participating in EU research programmes and through self-funding. We receive an annual basic allocation from the Research Council of Norway that amounts to about 10% of our turnover. The basic allocation is used for long-term competence building.

NIVA currently leads approximately 20 research projects funded by the Research Council of Norway and participates in another 20. 

Researchers at NIVA

NIVA has more than 200 employees of whom 2/3 have backgrounds in the aquatic sciences. More than half of our staff  are employed in research positions, and half of our research staff hold PhD degrees. NIVA's staff is multinational, representing over 20 different countries.

PhD students are an important resource for the institute because of the opportunity they allow to participate in research projects and maintain close contacts with basic research environments at universities and colleges. At the same time, PhD students gain valuable experience in project work at NIVA.