The Today’s Chanakya Exit Poll 2026 projections suggest a clear electoral trend across major states, with the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) likely to retain power in Tamil Nadu, while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is expected to secure a dominant victory in West Bengal and maintain a strong
FDI norms soon for companies with part-Chinese stakeThe Cabinet on March 10 allowed the automatic approval route for overseas investors with up to 10% ownership from countries sharing a land border with India Updated on: May 01, 2026 6:53 AM IST By Rajeev Jayaswal Share via Copy link The government
The Calcutta High Court on Thursday reserved its order on a plea by the Trinamool Congress challenging the Election Commission’s decision to mandate the deployment of Union government employees as counting supervisors during the West Bengal election results, Bar and Bench reported
The first edition of The Economic Times ET GenAI Hackathon has wrapped up, with winners announced after participation from over 54,000 registrants nationwide. The three-phase competition showcased innovative GenAI solutions, awarded a ₹10 lakh prize pool
OAKLAND, Calif. — Elon Musk on Thursday sparred with an attorney for OpenAI during his third day of testimony in the contentious trial over the company's pivot from nonprofit status to a for-profit venture valued at hundreds of billions of dollars
Chris Wood almost led Nottingham Forest to the Champions League last season. After six months out, he could yet do it this time. The striker's unstoppable penalty gave Forest a narrow first-leg lead in their Europa League semi-final tussle with Aston Villa on Thursday
Cognizant’s move coincides with the rollout of ‘Project Leap’, a transformation programme aimed at boosting AI investments, strengthening digital capabilities and reskilling staff. IT major Cognizant Technology is planning to cut nearly 4,000 jobs, or about 1 per cent of its workforce
Air travel between India and Qatar is set to regain momentum after an extended period of disruption, with key Indian airlines preparing to restart operations at Hamad International Airport, Doha. After nearly two months of severely restricted air traffic in the region
Are you cut out for living and working in Antarctica?
Both the UK and US's research facilities in Antarctica are on the hunt for the next batch of workers to "go south".
You don't need to be a scientist, as vacancies are available for everything from carpenters, to electricians, chefs, and even a hairdresser. But could you cope with the cold and isolation?
Since leaving his hometown of Wigan in the north of England aged 19, Dan McKenzie has worked in numerous far-flung places around the world.
Now 38, the former marine engineer's most remote and challenging role by far is his current job as the station leader at the Halley VI Research Station in Antarctica.
This is one of five facilities on the icy continent run by the British Antarctic Survey (BAS), the UK's polar research institute.
"I've always been adventurous and interested in finding the most wild places," says McKenzie, speaking to the BBC via a satellite-connected video call.
I used to be a seafarer, and I didn't want to carry on on ships, but to do something similar. I thought this would align pretty well with the skills that I've got.
As McKenzie speaks about his job, it is a stunning Antarctic summer's day, a balmy -15C. The view outside his window is a vast expanse of white as far as the eye can see, smoothed over by an equally vast layer of pure blue.
That temperature is pretty nice here, really," he says. "Minus five is as warm as it gets. It can get down to about -40, but you're looking at about -20 being the average.
McKenzie is responsible for a team of 40 people based at Halley VI for Antarctica's summer season from November to the middle of February.
BAS stations monitor different aspects of wildlife and the environment. Halley VI is focused on space and atmospheric data, as well as studying the Brunt Ice Shelf on which it's located close to the coast, and the hole in the Earth's ozone layer.
Not only do the team experience extreme cold, but summer in Antarctica also comes with non-stop daylight, ending with a sunset that lasts weeks.
McKenzie worked his way up to the job of station leader after completing his first contract "on the ice" in 2019. He started as a mechanical maintenance engineer at BAS's Rothera Research Station, 1,000 miles away from Halley VI.
His station leader role involves managing supplies, health and safety, and training. McKenzie also has to provide emotional support to the team when issues like isolation and interpersonal conflict in close quarters get too much.
People come into your office and say they're not having a very good day, or something's happened at home, and you have to try and see if you can support them. It's very varied.
McKenzie is one of 120 BAS employees in total who were in Antarctica for the summer season that is now coming to an end. Most, including McKenzie, will return to the UK by the end of May, yet up to 50 will stay for the darkness of winter.
McKenzie will be based at BAS's headquarters in Cambridge for the remainder of the year, but he has previously overwintered in Antarctica. "When the winter comes, you feel this incredible sense of freedom as most people leave," he says.
You just feel like you're the most free person in the world. You've got this tight knit group of people, and you all really care about each other - you become like a little family. Everyone looks after each other.
BAS takes on up to 150 new recruits for Antarctica each year. While specialist science and engineering roles form the backbone, around 70% of the jobs are the operational roles required to keep the stations functioning.
In addition to the likes of electricians and chefs, the workforce includes medics, doctors and plumbers. Salaries start at £31,244 per annum, with travel, accommodation, meals and gear to withstand the extreme temperatures all provided.
In total, some 5,000 people work in Antarctica during its summer months, across 80 research stations operated by about 30 countries.
Both BAS and its American equivalent, the US Antarctic Program, advertise their jobs online. BAS also holds an open day in March.
But those enticed by the call of adventure must ensure they know what they're signing up for. Fresh food is scarce and alcohol is limited. And accommodation at BAS facilities is shared dormitories. Staff work a seven-day shift rota.
BAS' selection process tests for conflict-handling and problem-solving abilities, which is followed by thorough pre-deployment training for successful candidates.
Yet rather than the physical challenges - and the cold - it's the close proximity to colleagues, and structured routine, that can cause the most issues for people, according to Mariella Giancola, BAS' head of HR. She likens it to "going back to uni".
"We get a lot of people saying, 'I don't have a problem dealing with people'. And then they realise that they are not comfortable sharing spaces with other people.
It's important to be comfortable with the fact that you are not going to have any privacy because people are right in your face. Then they go from the freedom they have at home, to being told by a station leader about the rules and regulations. A small number of people struggle with that.
Dr Duncan Precious is a clinical psychologist who served in that role in both the British and Australian armed forces, from 2013 to 2020. He's now the clinical director and resilience consultant for defence consultancy, CDS Defence & Security.
While the potential for physical hazards in Antarctica is high, Precious says social dynamics can prove more problematic. When relationships break down, the fallout can be hard to rectify, and hard to control, he says.
He notes, though, that the type of people drawn to living and working in Antarctica would tend to thrive on what he refers to as "good stress" - in a similar way certain people are drawn to serving in the military.
Despite the physical and emotional demands of the job, McKenzie says nothing beats the incredible experiences he's had - as well as the satisfaction of contributing to environmental research.
"When I first got down here, it was hard to be sharing a room with people, and the weather was quite miserable. For the first month I thought, 'maybe this isn't the thing for me'," he acknowledges.
But then you start to get out, and you see whales, seals and islands on boats, and then little trips out in small aircraft. And you think, 'this is pretty brilliant'. This year, I've been so lucky to see an emperor penguin colony. It's like something from a David Attenborough documentary.
Source: BBC
Related Posts: New police search begins in hunt for missing Madeleine McCann Drones dive into aviation's deepest enigma as MH370 hunt restarts Desperate hunt for breakthrough in Nancy Guthrie case turns to Mexico Netanyahu’s corruption trial deferred amid Donald Trump’s ‘witch hunt’ remark The hunt for a true Christmas market - in the UK After the Hunt Juve stay in Champions League hunt with last-gasp Roma draw Hunt On! Someone ‘Dropped Their Heart’ On Delhi Road 12 years on, renewed hunt for missing Flight MH370 comes up empty as families press for answers Mumbai Police Rescues Kidnapped Girl After Six-Month Hunt
Gujarat Titans secured a four-wicket victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Gujarat Titans chose to field first. Royal Challengers Bengaluru were bowled out for 155. Gujarat Titans chased down the target with 25 balls remaining. Shubman Gill and Jos Buttler played key roles in the chase
1 hours ago
Tamil Nadu Exit Poll: Superstar Vijay’s TVK projected for historic debut with 120 seats; a new MGR-style rise? Tamil Nadu exit polls 2026: A dramatic transformation is imminent in the politics of Tamil Nadu. As per the Axis My India exit poll, the newly formed political party of superstar Vijay
1 hours ago
TRAI pushes for tech that enables real-time accident alerts, traffic monitoringThe technology will be enabled by on-board wireless communication devices and can allow features for safety, such as warning drivers of an impending collision. Updated on: May 01
1 hours ago
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Adityanath in a column in the Indian Express on April 28 headlined “Story of new UP” spoke of restoring “dignity, belonging, and hope” to the state. No child of Uttar Pradesh “should ever feel compelled to leave home in search of dignity and opportunity”
1 hours ago
Adani Ports Q4 Results: Adani Ports posts strong Q4 results with profit up 10 per cent and revenue surging 26 per cent, while outlining ambitious plans to double growth by 2030. Adani Ports Q4 Results: Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone, closed the March quarter on a strong note
1 hours ago
China will scrap tariffs for all African countries from Friday – except Eswatini, which maintains ties with Taiwan. As of December 2024, China had already implemented a duty-free policy for 33 least-developed African nations. The policy now covers 53 countries
1 hours ago
How two months of war in West Asia hit global markets and the economyHere is a look at the war's impact so far on global financial markets and the economy. Updated on: May 01, 2026 6:18 AM IST By Sreedev Krishnakumar Share via Copy link Two months after the US-Israel war with Iran began on February
1 hours ago
Sugar-free products with sugar. ‘Real’ juices with artificial ingredients. Misleading food ads are fuelling a public health crisis in India. Help Scroll expose the systemic failure. Support our investigation.Sugar-free products with sugar. ‘Real’ juices with artificial ingredients
1 hours ago
On April 29, the second day of polling in West Bengal, a viral video from the state showed a group of men assaulting others in a narrow lane. Strikingly, Central forces patrolling the lane watched the violence, without intervening. Media reports described it as a clash between workers of the
1 hours ago
Prosecutors in California have filed a criminal charge against Britney Spears over her arrest last month for allegedly driving under the influence. The pop star is facing one misdemeanour count of driving under the influence of any alcohol and drug
1 hours ago
US jobless claims dropped significantly last week, falling below 200,000. This occurred despite ongoing economic challenges, including the war in Iran and elevated oil prices. Consumer prices have also seen a substantial monthly increase. The Federal Reserve maintained its benchmark interest rate
1 hours ago
All Maharashtra council candidates to be elected unopposed after Congress opts outOf the ten seats, nine are due for biennial elections as sitting members retire on May 13. Published on: May 01, 2026 6:52 AM IST By Faisal Malik, Saurabha Kulshreshtha Share via Copy link All candidates contesting
1 hours ago
OnePlus Pad 4 arrives in India with a big 13,380mAh battery: Price, specs, featuresThe OnePlus Pad 4 will be up for grabs in India starting May 5. Users will get an instant discount of ₹5,000 on its purchase. Updated on: Apr 30, 2026 4:55 PM IST Share via Copy link You may be interested in 11%
1 hours ago
The Supreme Court has reserved its judgment on a plea for anticipatory bail filed by Congress leader Pawan Khera. The case involves allegations of defamation and forgery against the wife of Assam's Chief Minister. Khera argues his statements only constitute defamation
1 hours ago
As planting season dawned across South East Asia's rice fields, Suchart Piamsomboon, a 60-year-old farmer from Thailand's Chachoengsao province, went to the local shop for fertilisers. And, he was told, it might not arrive. Even if it did, it would cost over 1
1 hours ago
Following the completion of the voting in the second phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections on Wednesday, the exit polls for the five states, in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, and Tamil Nadu, are out. In 2026, most pollsters are of the opinion that the BJP will retain power in Assam and Puducherry
1 hours ago
From the latest Yellowstone spin-off to a new take on William Golding's classic novel about violent schoolboys, and a supernatural series produced by the Stranger Things creators – these are the best series to watch and stream. Jack Thorne, writer of the brilliant series Adolescence and the hit
1 hours ago
UGC NET Registrations: There has been a major change in the eligibility criteria this year. Students with a four-year undergraduate degree (FYUGP) can also appear for NET. UGC NET June 2026: The National Testing Agency has released the UGC NET June 2026 notification
1 hours ago
Indian techie with ₹40 lakh loan forced to return after H1B setback, says job market feels ‘brutal’An Indian techie returned from the US after an H1B setback, faced a tough job market and struggled with a ₹40 lakh loan. Published on: Apr 30, 2026 9:44 PM IST By Mahipal Singh Chouhan Share
1 hours ago
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has condemned ongoing military and economic pressure on Iran, arguing that measures such as the US naval blockade of its ports are effectively a continuation of hostile actions against the country In a post on X on Thursday, Pezeshkian said
1 hours ago
The Vande Bharat will stop at only four stations: Jammu Tawi, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, Banihal, and Srinagar. Pilgrims headed to Vaishno Devi get a direct pick-up at Katra. The wait is finally over. Today, April 30, 2026, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw flags off the Jammu–Srinagar Vande
1 hours ago
What if The Devil Wears Prada characters were tarot cards?Tarot reader Kishori Sud did something fun and decoded the characters of The Devil Wears Prada as tarot cards, based on their personality. Published on: Apr 30, 2026 8:40 PM IST By Kanakanjali Roy Share via Copy link After a long 20-year
1 hours ago
Both Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel compete directly across almost every telecom service in India, and their Rs 355 prepaid plans are no different. This price point is not for everyone, as the 30-day validity makes it a relatively expensive option compared to plans that offer daily data limits
1 hours ago
How many NBA titles does Klay Thomson have? Rings and achievements sparks buzz amid Megan Thee Stallion rowKlay Thompson has gained public attention following his breakup with Megan Thee Stallion. The NBA star has won four championships with Golden State. Published on: May 01
1 hours ago
The Athletic editor admits failure in Dianna Russini-Mike Vrabel scandalSteven Ginsberg addressed staff regarding the Dianna Russini scandal, admitting communication mistakes. He held a brief meeting but took no questions. Published on: May 01
1 hours ago
Best Time To Visit Goa: Discover the best time to visit Goa with seasonal weather highlights, and essential travel tips to help you make the most of a getaway to the tourist paradise. The sun-soaked expanses of Goa can feel both slow and spirited
1 hours ago
A day after the National Council – Joint Consultative Machinery (NC-JCM) (staff side) requested the 8th Pay Commission to extend the deadline of memorandum submission from April 30, 2026, the 8th CPC today (Wednesday, April 29, 2026) extended the due date to May 31, 2026
1 hours ago
