Just two weeks after the extent of Arctic sea ice hit a record low, earth scientists from around the country are putting their heads together to discuss new research platforms for studying remote and risky places like the polar regions. "When the research is dirty, dull or dangerous, it just might be a job for unmanned aircraft," said Research Associate Elizabeth Weatherhead, who, with Professor Brian Argrow of the University of Colorado at Â鶹ӰԺ, is coordinating the first U.S. conference exclusively focused on expanding research applications of remotely piloted aircraft.