Caring for the American Legacy
Why conduct research in National Parks?
National Parks are an American legacy. The National Park Service preserves unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the national park system for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations. That is a huge job, particularly in light of the many challenges facing parks today. To take the best possible care of these parks, managers need to know as much as they can about the resources within them. That's where the researchers can help. Scientists investigate topics and issues revolving around natural and cultural resources in the parks, and the information they yield helps park managers do their jobs.
Permits and Investigator Annual Reports (IARs)
Researchers wishing to conduct scientific investigations in national parks must apply for a research permit.
Each year, investigators submit an annual report summarizing the status of their projects. The Research Permit and Reporting System houses these reports known as the Investigator's Annual Reports (IARs). Use the 'Search' dropdown menu in the upper left and select 'Investigator's Annual Reports.' Next, enter the national park name and reporting year that interest you.
Research Internships
Since 2004 the GLREC has offered research internships for undergraduate and graduate students during summer months to conduct studies in national parks of the Great Lakes region. The goals of the program are to: 1) support the education and career development of students and recent graduates via research opportunities, and 2) provide needed data and information pertaining to important issues and problems associated with resource management in parks. When available, funding for research internships can be up to $2,500 per season.
For information on future research internships, contact the Great Lakes Research and Education Center's research coordinator.
Research Needs
View a list of specific research needs identified by staff at each individual park in the network as well as lists of general research needed across all the network parks and climate change related research needed across all the network parks.
If you have research ideas or suggestions, please email our research coordinator for park information.
Facilities for Researchers and Students
The Great Lakes Research and Education Center at Indiana Dunes National Park may be able to offer office space, laboratory space, and inexpensive lodging to visiting researchers.
Other parks associated with the Great Lakes Research and Education Center may have facilities including field laboratories, office space, lodging, and conference rooms for faculty and student researchers' use while conducting in-park research.
Last updated: April 14, 2024