Overview
Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI) was established in 1953 and operates as an independent, non-profit research foundation based in Norway. It specialises in geotechnical engineering and engineering geoscience, combining research, laboratory testing and applied consulting. NGI’s overarching purpose is to contribute to safe and sustainable development of infrastructure and communities.The organisation’s philosophy centres on using science-based knowledge to reduce risk related to ground conditions, climate impacts and natural hazards. Its work supports decision-making for public authorities, infrastructure owners, financial actors and private companies in Norway and internationally.
Mission and focus areas
NGI’s mission is to advance geoscientific knowledge that enables society to build, live and travel safely on and in the ground. Core focus areas include landslides and natural hazards, infrastructure and transport, offshore and marine geotechnics, energy systems, and climate change adaptation.The institute contributes to sustainability and ESG-related objectives by addressing physical climate risk, resilience of assets, environmental impacts of construction, and long-term safety of critical infrastructure. Its research supports risk assessment, climate adaptation planning and responsible investment decisions where ground stability, environmental conditions and natural hazards are material factors.
Structure and governance
NGI operates as a private foundation with a formal governance structure. It is led by a chief executive officer and an executive management team, supported by a board of directors responsible for strategic oversight.The organisation is structured into specialist departments and research groups covering onshore, offshore and environmental geotechnics. NGI collaborates extensively with universities, research institutions, government agencies and international partners through funded research projects and consortia.
Programs and offerings
NGI delivers applied research, commissioned studies and independent scientific advice across a wide range of geotechnical and geoscience topics. Key outputs include research publications, technical reports, risk assessments and guidance used by policymakers, engineers and financial stakeholders.The institute operates advanced laboratories and field testing facilities and contributes to international research programmes related to climate resilience and infrastructure safety. Its combination of research and consulting provides evidence-based insights that are relevant for sustainability practitioners assessing physical risk, asset resilience and long-term environmental performance.
Our societal mission
Our societal mission is to develop the geosciences and produce the knowledge basis to build, live and travel on safe ground. We solve this by combining research and consulting hand-in-hand and being a bridge-builder between academia, industry and the public sector.
