Become an Antarctic medical practitioner

Most Antarctic medical practitioners are appointed for a 15 month period spending a total of 12 months (including the period of the Antarctic winter) at a station where they are included in the group referred to as 'winterers'. Occasionally, short-term 'summer' appointments as ships' doctor or summer field doctors associated with a special project are available.

Potential medical recruits need general all-round medical expertise with at least several years post-graduate experience including some surgical experience. 

In particular they must

• have the ability to singlehandedly manage a totally isolated practice and deal with any surgical, medical or dental emergency that might arise

• possess the ability to train expeditioners in basic medical skills and supervise (semi-skilled/unskilled) expedition personnel assisting with medical procedures

• be eligible for registration by any of the State Medical Boards in Australia

• be rated as suitable for Antarctic service according to the personal qualities selection criteria

• satisfy security and character checks

• be certified as fit for Antarctic service

Antarctic medical practitioners are required to undergo an appendicectomy. For further information see application documents.