Jonathan Smith - aiming high as he joins the 2025 team heading to Svalbard

Jonathan is a Chartered Town Planner with nearly 40 years working within the ‘environmental’ field. With a passion for the outdoors, he has extensive experience in adventurous pursuits, including an ascent of Mont Blanc. He is a qualified pilot and is also firearms trained.

2025 Expedition Leader, Mike Haynes commented "We're delighted to welcome Jonathan to the membership of the ARG and his first expedition to Svalbard. With his cool headed and understated demeanour, coupled to a broad smile, Jonathan brings valuable capabilities to the team and is expected to deliver a significant contribution to the safe and sucessful completion of the research programme for this year".

As a new member of the Team, Jonathan is excited with the opportunity to experience the Arctic and to engage in the work of the ARG. He is looking forward to bringing his knowledge and skills to the 2025 expedition and is planning on making a valuable contribution to its success.