Snæfríður is a specialist at the Centre for Arctic Studies. She has a BA degree in Chinese Studies from the University of Iceland, MA in Diplomatic Studies from the University of Malta and a MA in Conflict, Security and Development from King's College London (KCL). Snæfríður is also an adjunct in Chinese Studies at the University of Iceland and teaches courses on Chinese Studies but also courses taught within the political department. Snæfríður's research interests are Arctic affairs, security affairs, foreign policy, international relations, disarmament, small states, Chinese Studies, China's foreign and security affairs.