# Collaborative Research: Observing melt-forced subglacial hydrologic connectivity and its impact on ice sliding with coupled hydrology and geophysical methods

> **NSF 0100CYXXDB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Cornell University (NY) · $700,962

## Abstract

The investigators will explore how meltwater from surface channels called moulins (holes in the ice that funnel water downward) affects the hidden drainage system beneath Greenland’s glaciers. They will conduct a field study to see how water connects isolated pockets of space at the glacier’s base with larger drainage networks and how these connections influence seasonal changes in ice speed. The team will use tools like seismic sensors, radar, and measurements of ice movement to track how these systems evolve together. By observing changes in the number, size, and location of these underground cavities over time - linked to how much meltwater flows in - they will determine how the hydrological connections between these spaces affect how fast the ice is moving. This research builds on earlier discoveries showing that Greenland’s summer slowdowns (when glaciers move less) happen not because water channels grow larger, as seen in mountain glaciers like those in the Alps, but because isolated pockets under the ice merge into bigger drainage pathways. The study will focus on western Greenland’s Paakitsoq region. The investigators will create a Virtual Reality (VR) module showcasing fieldwork on the Greenland Ice Sheet in partnership with the Museum of the Earth (Ithaca, NY) and the Kangiata Illorsua-Icefjord Center (Ilulissat, Greenland).

The investigators will conduct a field campaign focused on understanding how hydraulic connections between isolated cavities at the bed surf

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2519013
- **Awardee organization:** Cornell University (NY)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** G56PUALJ3KT5
- **PI:** Riley T Culberg
- **Primary program:** 0100CYXXDB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** ARCTIC RESEARCH
- **Estimated total:** $700,962
- **Funds obligated:** $700,962
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 07/01/2025 → 06/30/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2519013

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2519013, Collaborative Research: Observing melt-forced subglacial hydrologic connectivity and its impact on ice sliding with coupled hydrology and geophysical methods. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-07 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2519013. Licensed CC0.

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