The NextGen Nordic Geotechnics (NG2): Bridging Sustainability, Engineering and Emerging Research Fields network aims to establish a vibrant, transdisciplinary Nordic early-career researcher (ECR) network focused on advancing geotechnical engineering innovations that address urgent climate, sustainability and infrastructure challenges specific to complex ground conditions and natural hazards in Nordic regions. NG² focuses on integrating interdisciplinary, advanced technologies, such as climate-resilient, sustainable and digital solutions including Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) into geotechnical engineering practice. The network is specifically designed to address the unique Nordic ground challenges including quick clays, peat, permafrost, volcanic soils and anthropogenic geomaterials (like mine tailings).
NG2 brings together eight ECRs from Finland (Aalto University and Tampere University), Iceland (University of Iceland) and Norway (Norwegian Geotechnical Institute and Oslo Metropolitan University), fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange around three interdisciplinary, thematic areas: climate impacts, sustainability and nature-based solutions, and digital and data-driven approaches. These areas are supported by competence-building initiatives designed to empower ECRs through leadership training, interdisciplinary workshops and research mobility.
The network's core activities include an interdisciplinary knowledge hub for knowledge exchange, intensive summer schools for hands-on training and short-term research visits to enhance research collaboration. NG2’s network structure actively involves researchers at all career stages, ranging from graduate students to senior researchers. NG2 is committed to promoting gender balance and ethical standards, ensuring an inclusive and responsible network environment.
By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and the development of new research directions and goals, NG2 aims to encourage sustainable geotechnical practices that support the long-term prosperity of the Nordic region, aligning with the Nordic Vision 2030 and the EU Green Deal. NG2 not only advances scientific knowledge but also addresses pressing societal challenges, such as climate change, environmental sustainability, digitalization and an aging infrastructure, making a significant impact on the Nordic research ecosystem and beyond.
