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New Voices in Science
3. March 2026 at 09:00-10:30
Doctoral Students’ Symposium 2026
EVERYONE IS WELCOME TO THE PHD STUDENTS’ SYMPOSIUM!
At the symposium, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the diverse research projects of PhD students at the University of Akureyri.
- The PhD students will give short presentations about their projects, offering insight into doctoral studies and the University’s research environment.
- Following the presentations, guests are invited to take part in an open discussion with the PhD students, ask questions, and learn more about their research.
- The symposium will take place in the foyer of Borgir on the University campus.
PhD students & projects
ASHANI ARULANANTHAN
PFAS Meet Arctic & Sub-Arctic Marine Diatoms: Accumulation Patterns and Impacts on the Food Web
Prolonged exposure to PFAS may influence diatom-associated symbiotic bacterial communities, metabolic functions, and gene regulation in marine diatoms. This research provides insight into how PFAS affects organisms in Arctic and sub-Arctic marine environments and the potential consequences for the food web.
KRISTRÚN MARÍA BJÖRNSDÓTTIR
The Health Journey Study
This project examines physical activity patterns and sedentary behaviour among adults in Iceland, measured using accelerometers. The research provides valuable insight into everyday movement and health-related behaviour in the Icelandic population.
MARIA FINSTER ÚLFARSSON
Participation, Support and Educational Needs of Adult Children Caring for Mothers in Nursing Homes
The main aim of this PhD project is to examine gender differences in adult children’s involvement in caring for their mothers in nursing homes, and to explore their need for education and support from healthcare professionals
MARÍA DÍS ÓLAFSDÓTTIR
Reshaping fish skin to leather by the meter
The project aims to build fundamental knowledge of fish skin properties in order to improve leather production processes. By strengthening the scientific understanding of fish skin as a raw material, the research supports the development of sustainable methods for producing leather from fish skin.
UNNUR MAGNÚSDÓTTIR
Protein-ligand Analysis of the Chitinase-like Protein YKL-40 in Humans
The aim of this study is to investigate the molecular interactions of the human chitinase-like protein YKL-40, which is associated with inflammation, fibrosis, and cancer. The research seeks to deepen our understanding of YKL-40’s functional role in disease progression and its potential as a therapeutic target.
Everyone is welcome — the PhD students look forward to meeting you!