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How do I know which Research Learning Center is right for me? Each Center has unique resources based on geography, landscape, culture and history of the area. Every national park unit has its own research priorities that may be identified in a variety of ways such as through the Resource Management Plan. As a result, depending on your skill or expertise, you may need to contact the park's research coordinator (or related personnel) to determine if there is a match. Initially, the research permit process will assist you in this effort.

Is a permit required?

YES! Every researcher interested in conducting a study at any National Park Service site is required to complete an application for a Research Permit. This link will bring you to the necessary instructions and documents to apply for a permit and submit your request. Contact information is provided right on this site if you have any questions or concerns.

Are facilities available for overnight accommodations and lab work?

Each of the Centers provides physical facilities to support you and this includes bunk space (e.g., dormitory), office space, and laboratories for organizing data and conducting analyses. Some Centers may have classroom space for workshops and other small presentations.

What are some examples of research that can be conducted?

The research emphasis for any given park is site specific. Depending on the geographic location, examples may include assessing the condition of archeological sites, monitoring of endangered species, watershed protection, and evaluating large mammal impacts on the resource. Human dimensions research may be placed on such areas as wilderness management, visitor use management, user conflicts and crowding, and innovative methods for restoring historic structures. Depending on your skill and expertise, there's a Center waiting for you!

Tips for Researchers

The tips provided here are helpful hints for researchers and scholars interested in working with a Research Learning Center or finding ways to access resources from a distance. They will guide you in developing contacts and help you avoid common errors that may cause frustration resulting from your efforts at communication.

Contact the Research Coordinator as your first lead for obtaining more information. See the "Contacts" tab on this website for details.

If you leave a message, be sure to provide all pertinent information regarding the nature of your call - your affiliation, how and when you can best be reached, and what you may be seeking.

Make sure you review the NPS Research Permit process in advance.

Have you checked the website for the Park or Research Learning Center you would like resources from?

Describe clearly how your research skills will meet at least one of the NPS resource management priorities that are identified at each Park.

Develop a realistic timeline for when you are available to complete a project.

Determine if funding is available from the Research Learning Center to support your goals. If not, have you explored funding sources to assist with meeting your needs?

Some Research Learning Centers have housing accommodations and some do not. Be sure to make alternative arrangements if necessary.

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