Eliot’s reflections on working at Rothera Research Station

22 July, 2024 Rothera

For some people, working in Antarctica is a lifelong dream. For others, like Eliot Perez, Assistant Project Manager for the Antarctic Infrastructure Modernisation Programme, that dream became a reality nine months ago.  

As the 2023 – 2024 season comes to a close, Eliot reflects on what it is like to work in one of the most unique workplaces in the world. 

What type of work did you undertake at Rothera this season? 

I worked on station in the project management team and helped to deliver Phase 1 of this season’s Antarctic Infrastructure Modernisation Programme (or AIMP as its more commonly known), which aims to upgrade and improve the infrastructure in Rothera to enable our scientists to effectively carry out their critical operations. On the station, I was the PMO (Project Management Office) supervisor where I was responsible for supporting the delivery of construction and environmental compliance of the project, which is crucial in everything that we do. 

What will the results of this work accomplish? 

My current focus is the delivery of the Discovery Building: Rothera’s new scientific support and operations facility. It has been designed with sustainability and the environment in mind and will house both the science and operations teams at the UK’s largest Antarctic research station. 

How long did you stay at Rothera? 

I was stationed in Rothera for just over three months. I arrived in February and returned to the UK in May. However, I am going back South later in the year for the commissioning season to work on the project.  

In terms of the environment, what is Antarctica like to work in? 

I think it’s a bit of a paradox: on one hand its extremely simple as you live, work, eat and sleep in such a small vicinity. But, on the other hand, it makes every project decision that much more complex; accounting for the extreme weather and logistics can be a challenge. As a result, we spend months planning every facet of the project across the business to ensure that we’re as efficient as possible.  

Can you explain a typical working day in Rothera for us? 

As a PMO supervisor, I’m focused on ensuring the construction delivery of our new Discovery Building. The timing varies during summer, however, my working day typically starts around 7:30am and continues until around 6:30pm. I will then usually go to the gym before heading over to do some evening activities. This can be varied; some nights I am in the workshop and others I am happy to catch up with friends. Surprisingly, I’ve even tried my hand at yoga, but I can’t see myself doing that again! 

How do you feel about working in Antarctica? 

I feel extremely privileged to wake up here every day. There is no other place like it in the world and I am fortunate that I get to call it my ‘office’. I am happy to be living here for months at a time doing rewarding work to maintain the future of our important polar regions. I wouldn’t change it for anything!  

What has been the biggest surprise about working at Rothera? 

Without a doubt, the biggest surprise was how good the food is. The chefs are super resourceful and never fail to impress. Who knew that some of the best meals I’ve ever eaten would have been cooked at Rothera?  On the topic of food (and surprises), I recently learned that the chefs here keep the eggs fresh for months by turning them 180 degrees every day – that’s a close second in terms of surprises.  

How do you spend your free time at Rothera? 

During my free time, I make sure to get out and about in the local area as much as possible. If the weather allows it, I will usually try and put on my skis or go snowboarding. Working, living, and sleeping in the same location can be intense at times, so I think this is a great way to step out of the bubble and enjoy the outdoors.  A weekend favourite of mine is to ski up to the caboose (a small shelter) and enjoy some tea and biscuits away from station – it’s magical.  

What has been the highlight of working at Rothera? 

There has been so many throughout the months, but a highlight from this season has been trying my hand at ice climbing – it’s brand new to me and something I will definitely do more of in the future. The wildlife is another thing I will never get used to. Every time I see an amazing piece of wildlife, like the humpback whales, I feel pretty lucky.  

What piece of advice would you give someone who was coming to Rothera for the first time? 

It’s an odd one, so stick with me, but be prepared for how much water you will have to consume. It’s something I had never considered before, but because of the dry atmosphere in Antarctica, it can sometimes feel impossible to properly quench your thirst. Bring your water bottle and make sure you’re keeping hydrated! 

When you leave, what do you miss the most? 

It’s definitely the unique and stunning environment we’re surrounded by. Having easy access to the snow and being able to snowboard and ski in my free time is a very special thing. I also miss the views in the area! I make sure to take two minutes every morning to stand outside my accommodation and look at the bay in front of me – it never gets boring!