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SEEDS Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Workshop

Join us for a hands-on GIS workshop, a collaborative effort between the Ecological Society of America (ESA) SEEDS program, the NSF-funded Landscape Exchange Network for Socio-environmental Systems Research (LENS) and Florida A&M University (FAMU) Sustainability Institute. This workshop is designed for student researchers looking to enhance their skills in ecological research, with a special focus on the practical applications of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing data.

In this workshop, you’ll dive into analyzing and visualizing data from the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) using GIS tools. You’ll also have the unique opportunity to visit a NEON site to observe firsthand how data is collected, and participate in field data collection exercises. Beyond the technical skills, this workshop is a platform to connect with peers who share your interests in ecology and environmental research. It’s an opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions and practice GIS analyses with scientists from various disciplines. Plus, you’ll become part of the LENS GIS community through our Slack group, where the conversation and collaboration continue beyond the workshop.

This is your chance to build valuable skills, expand your professional network, and engage with a community dedicated to advancing socio-environmental research with cutting-edge tools. Join us to take your ecological research to the next level.

Date: May 20-25, 2024

Location: Florida A&M University Sustainability Institute in Tallahassee, FL. 

Benefits

  • Acquire core remote sensing data and GIS skills.
  • Learn how to analyze and visualize NEON data. 
  • Participate in a field data collection exercise and learn first hand how the data is collected.
  • Visit the NEON tower at The Jones Center at Ichauway. 
  • Expand your network of data scientists and other professionals
  • Connect with a diverse community of peers 
  • Receive professional support after the event through Slack

Workshop Format and Schedule

The workshop will be in-person, with presentations, discussions, field experience and near peer mentoring. The goal is provide a welcoming, creative and supportive environment for graduate students to connect and share their own experiences, while learning a new skill and develop a professional network. 

  • May 20 – Arrivals and welcome event 
  • May 21 – Introductions, survey and briefing 
  • May 22 – Field Trip to The Jones Center at Ichauway in GA, visit NEON tower and field exercise. 
  • May 23 – Working groups, discuss and analyze results
  • May 24 – Presentations, review and feedback
  • May 25 – Departures and Travel 

Eligibility

  • Applicants must be enrolled in a graduate program within the United States. 
  • Demonstrate either prior work in ecology or related field or interest in connecting your disciplinary background to ecological questions.
  • Address how your participation contributes to diversity, equity and inclusion of underrepresented scientists in ecology. 

Requirements

  • Must attend all scheduled workshop events from May 20-24, 2024.
  • Deliver a presentation based on an independent project using NEON data.
  • Must bring a personal computer, internet access will be provided. 
  • Abide by ESA Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct throughout the workshop and when interacting with participants, instructors and program staff.

What’s included in the award:

  • Transportation to and from Tallahassee, FL
  • Housing – individual dorm style accommodations at Florida A&M University
  • Meals – all meals will be provided for the duration of the event 
  • Ground Transportation to and from the Tallahassee airport and The Jones Center at Ichauway
  • A supportive group of leaders and staff that will make sure each participant has a great experience

Funders and Partners:

 

The application had closed. Applicants will be notified of results before March 22.