Support for Citizen Science: Launch of the Joint research forum
14 March 2012 - 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Event details
14 March 2012 - 6:00pm - 7:30pm
The Natural History Society of Northumbria and Northumberland Wildlife Trust in partnership with Newcastle University and Tyne and Wear Archives & Museums are establishing a Joint Research Forum (JRF) to promote collaboration in research and, in particular, to encourage the involvement of lay members with interests in biology, environmental sciences, geology and related disciplines.
The role of the JRF will be to identify and support projects that could involve members of the Natural History Society and Wildlife Trust in 'citizen science'. Research involving the GNMH collections and archives, and the nature reserves managed by our two societies will be a major emphasis, but the JRF will provide expert advice to members who want to develop other projects within the region. It will generally encourage university staff and students to be more involved in working with the Society, Wildlife Trust and related organisations.
Potential benefits to university staff and students will include access to the experience of society members and the possibility of recruiting volunteers for projects that would not otherwise be feasible - for example, studies where substantial observation an recording are required, or where specialist field skills are needed. The Society and Wildlife Trust will benefit from the opportunities afforded to members to take part in exciting research and access skills and relevant facilities within the University. We expect innovative projects and partnerships to develop though the JRF with major opportunities to bid for external funding together.
The launch event on 14 March, to which you are warmly invited, will provide an opportunity for discussion where everyone can contribute ideas. There will be brief introductory presentations on current and potential projects, and a researcher from Computing Science will highlight developments in digital networking which could underpin the JRF. We anticipate that the launch will result in the setting up of a JRF Steering Group to take the initiative forwards. There will be an opportunity for real networking over a glass of wine afterwards.
Whether you are an experience naturalist with ideas about possible research projects, or a beginner interested in taking part in a larger piece of work, you are welcome to attend the launch of the JRF. If you intent to come it would be helpful if you would let us know by contacting the NHSN Office at nhsn@ncl.ac.uk so that we can plan accordingly. Anyone with suggestions about potential projects, or ideas about the way in which the JRF might develop, and which they would like to raise in the discussion is encouraged to contact Jim Edwardson at jim.edwardson@ncl.ac.uk.
Venue location
Clore Suite, Great North Museum,
Newcastle-upon-Tyne