The Institute for Circumpolar Health Studies
Alaska's rural and multi-cultural environment calls for multidisciplinary approaches to defining health problems and identifying appropriate solutions. The Institute for Circumpolar Health Studies (ICHS) was established by the Alaska Legislature in 1988 to improve the health of peoples of Alaska and other circumpolar areas through instruction, information services, and basic and applied research in health and medicine.
Our applied research focus supports public health planning and provides opportunities for students to gain research experience. Our faculty and staff have expertise in epidemiologic study design, quantitative and qualitative analysis, geographic information systems (GIS), community engagement, evaluation, and facilitation.
NEWS & Stories
In this spotlight, John reflects on seeing public health beyond his own specialty, the connections that hold Alaska’s public health community together, and how others may recognize leadership in us before we recognize it in ourselves.
A team led by University of Alaska Anchorage researcher Philippe Amstislavski is exploring how mycelium, the root structure of fungi, can be grown into biodegradable materials that hold similar properties to Styrofoam.
Micah Hahn, M.P.H., Ph.D., associate professor of environmental health in UAA’s Institute for Circumpolar Health Studies, is the principal investigator and a co-author on a scientific paper published last month in the journal Environmental Research: Health.
In May 2026, the Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies (CAAS) proudly co-sponsored the Pathways to Recovery Conference hosted by the State of Alaska’s Office of Substance Misuse and Addiction Prevention (OSMAP).
Professor of Public Health Dr. Virginia "Jenny" Miller is retiring after 18 years with UAA
Upcoming Events
Contact Us:
Phone: 907-786-6545
Fax: 907-786-6572
Email: uaa_ichs@alaska.edu
Mailing Address:
The Institute for Circumpolar Health Studies
UAA Professional Studies Building
3211 Providence Dr., PSB 206
Anchorage, AK 99508
