Special Initiative
Great Lakes Science Initiative
Co-led by Aaron Thompson (HLA) and Stuart Carlton (FNR), the Great Lakes Science Initiative focuses research, teaching, and Extension on southern Lake Michigan, the Chicagoland region, and the broader Great Lakes ecosystem — building a community of researchers and partners to close knowledge gaps, train future leaders, and support sustainable management of the Great Lakes.
AREAS OF INTEREST
Explore key topics driving discovery and innovation as Purdue researchers work to answer important questions in this field.
Physical processes of the Great Lakes
Encompassing the natural dynamics that shape the lakes’ behavior, including water circulation, temperature, ice formation, sediment transport, and interactions between atmosphere and water that influence ecosystems, water quality, and climate resilience.
Ecosystem function and management
Focusing on understanding and sustaining the biological, chemical, and physical interactions that support lake health, while developing strategies to restore habitats, maintain biodiversity, and ensure long-term environmental and community resilience.
Data and sensor monitoring
Developing and deploying advanced technologies to collect real-time information on water quality, temperature, currents, and ecosystem conditions, supporting research, management decisions, and long-term stewardship of the Great Lakes.
Socioeconomic science
Examining how human communities interact with and depend on the lakes, integrating economic, cultural, and policy perspectives to guide sustainable resource use, inform management decisions, and support resilient economies across the Great Lakes region.
Related Projects
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
ISF supports research and partnerships that advance a sustainable, resilient, and prosperous future by aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Each ISF community identifies goals tied to their focus area. These include:
Support ISF
Your support helps drive research, collaboration, and real-world sustainability solutions.