Our Mission

The Great Lakes Research and Education Center increases the effectiveness and communication of scientific research inĀ eleven national parks in Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. We are part of a network of Research Learning Centers established by the National Park Service to facilitate the use of parks for scientific inquiry, promote science literacy and resource stewardship, and integrate science into park resource management, educational outreach programs, and visitor experiences.

A bright orange and black monarch butterfly clings to a yellow flower and sips nectar..
Be a Citizen Scientist

Citizen scientists collect data at Indiana Dunes as part of the Integrated Monarch Monitoring Program. Photo by Cassidy Muir from Pexels.

A student intern collects and identifies dragonflies to help complete a inventory of dragonflies.
Student Internships

The Great Lakes Research and Education Center supports research and education internships in national parks. Check them out!

Last updated: September 30, 2021