COMNAP's mission is to foster and promote best practices in managing the support of scientific research in Antarctica among the National Antarctic Programs of 30 Antarctic Treaty countries. Formed in 1988, it aims to enhance the effectiveness of scientific activities through environmentally responsible practices, international partnerships, information exchange, and providing the Antarctic Treaty System with technical and non-political advice.
The collaboration between COMNAP, SCAR, CCAMLR, and IAATO aims to support early-career researchers, scientists, engineers, environmental managers, and other professionals by providing annual funding opportunities. This grant program focuses on strengthening international capacity and cooperation in a variety of fields including climate, biodiversity, conservation, humanities, and astrophysics research, thereby contributing to our understanding and preservation of the Antarctic region.