Summer happenings at the Thompson Earth Systems Institute

Launched in 2018, the Thompson Earth Systems Institute seeks to advance communication and public understanding of current research discoveries about Earth’s natural systems in Florida and beyond.

Centered at the Florida Museum of Natural History, the institute seeks to harness the research discoveries of faculty and students from participating UF colleges that will help influence legislation and foster new research with global implications. Using innovative communication and technology, these discoveries will be made available to K–12 educators, community scientists and various interested public and private stakeholders. Likewise, through general education courses in Florida’s natural systems and related topics, undergraduates will have the opportunity to graduate from UF empowered to make decisions that directly affect the future of Florida’s natural systems and beyond.

On July 7–12, the institute will host K–12 teachers from all over Florida for a professional development workshop focused on the biosphere. Teachers will be working with 14 labs around campus to develop science-based lesson plans to bring back to their classrooms. This workshop is part of the “Scientist in Every Florida School Project.” Learn more here.

The institute also recently launched a new blog and newsletter titled “Earth to Florida,” which takes the month’s environmental news and puts it into context by interviewing UF and other experts around the state. Learn more and be sure to subscribe here.

Story submitted by Rebecca Burton, Communications Manager, Thompson Earth Systems Institute