Arve Elvebakk

Arve Elvebakk is a Professor of Botany at UiT The Arctic University of Norway, affiliated with The Arctic University Museum of Norway. Until December 31, 2022, he served as Director of the Tromsø Arctic-Alpine Botanical Garden. His work spans both academic research and practical botanical garden management, with a focus on arctic and alpine flora. He maintains extensive contact with the public through various communication channels related to the Garden's collections and climate change implications.

Professor Elvebakk's primary research interests fall within three main areas: Arctic botany and bioclimatology, taxonomy of lichens (particularly Pannariaceae) on a global scale, and other botanical projects. His work often focuses on the unique flora of Arctic regions, with particular attention to Svalbard and other high-latitude environments. He has made significant contributions to the understanding of lichen taxonomy and has described numerous new species across different geographical regions.

Analysis of Professor Elvebakk's recent publications reveals a strong focus on Arctic vegetation dynamics, particularly in Svalbard, and continued taxonomic work on lichens, especially within the Pannariaceae family. His research increasingly incorporates climate change impacts on Arctic flora, DNA analysis of bryophytes, and the biogeography of polar plant species. Many publications reflect international collaborations with researchers from New Zealand, South America, and other regions with alpine or polar environments.

Professor Elvebakk has extensive experience managing the Tromsø Arctic-Alpine Botanical Garden, which involves collaboration with gardeners, interns, and café staff. His leadership role included maintaining and labeling plant collections and developing rock landscapes that mimic arctic-alpine nature. Much of his research activity occurs during winter months, complementing his garden management responsibilities during other seasons.