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Institute of Environmental Research and Education
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Institute of Environmental Research and Education

The Institute of Environmental Research and Education (IERE) is an interdisciplinary institute that serves students and faculty from all six UNF colleges. Our mission is to provide opportunities for environmental research and education, by leading interdisciplinary programs that enhance the student experience, prepare students for the workforce and or graduate school, and increase environmental scholarship and innovation. The IERE team is comprised of staff, Faculty Executive Board, Joint Faculty Members, and the Community Council. IERE programs and scholarships are 100% funded by donors and grants. Learn more on how you can support IERE with a gift.

Announcements

Speaker at podium

COJ-UNF Jacksonville Environmental Symposium

Friday, Oct. 11, 2024

The symposium provides valuable opportunities for communication between regulatory agencies, community members and faculty as we strive to further the goal of protecting our limited natural resources and improving the quality of life in Northeast Florida.

Two individuals on a boat.

Faculty Research Seed Grants

Sunday, Nov. 3 — Application deadline 

Applications for the 2025 Seed Grants will be opening soon. Two grants in the amount of $10,000 will be awarded and funds can be used for the purchase of supplies and equipment, associated travel, student wages, publishing fees and faculty stipends. Proposals are reviewed by a committee of UNF faculty and are competitively awarded to the most meritorious proposals.

Environmental leadership student Devon explaining project to Provost Patterson.

Environmental Science B.S.

Spring 2025

The UNF Environmental Science B.S. offering two concentrations, Environmental Natural Sciences and Environmental Principles and Practice, is now available for admission to start in spring 2025. 

ELP Student Testimonials

Environmental Leaders in Action: UNF’s Environmental Leadership Program empowers students from diverse backgrounds to collaborate, innovate, and make a positive impact. Through engaging videos, these future environmental leaders allow for their passion to shine through as they share their experiences, from fieldwork to community engagement. Explore their journey and commitment to sustainability! Watch their inspiring stories and witness the transformative work they’re doing!

Photo collage including large headshot of student with environmental leadership program logo on top right. Three smaller photos are stacked on the right hand side of the headshot featuring the same student.
Photo collage including large headshot of student with environmental leadership program logo on top right. Three smaller photos are stacked on the right hand side of the headshot featuring the same student.
Photo collage including large headshot of student with environmental leadership program logo on top right. Three smaller photos are stacked on the right hand side of the headshot featuring the same student.
As an interdisciplinary unit within UNF, we invite all students to join our Canvas group. By doing so, you’ll receive direct communication and access additional resources related to a variety of interdisciplinary environmental programs. These programs offer opportunities for students interested in taking their next steps, whether through volunteer work, internships, careers, or graduate school.

Annual Reports

Directors

We would like to take a moment to thank our directors for their leadership and commitment.

  • 2004-2008 — Ray Bowman, Ph.D. (founder)
  • 2008-2013 — Radha Pyati, Ph.D.
  • 2013-2014 — Stuart Chalk, Ph.D. (interim)
  • 2014-2019 — J. David Lambert, Ph.D.
  • 2019-current — Erin Largo-Wight, Ph.D.