Scientific Research and Biological Field Station
Biological Field Station
As a biological field station, we provide opportunities for research in the environmental sciences. Our biological field station works with a consortium of 12 colleges and universities from Michigan and Indiana:
Aquinas College
Calvin University
Central Michigan University
Cornerstone University
Grand Rapids Community College
Grand Valley State University
Hope College
Kalamazoo College
Kalamazoo Valley Community College
Kendall College of Art and Design
Valparaiso University
Western Michigan University
See our field station opportunities and research grants below!
Laboratory & Housing
For both consortium members and other organizations, the Institute can provide classroom space, housing, meal service, field trips or research facilities. Field station facilities and property are available for short- and long-term research projects or for afternoon or multi-day field trips with overnight accommodations.
For detailed price estimates, please contact Dr. Sara Syswerda at syswerdas@cedarcreekinstitute.org.
Scientific Research
As a Michigan biological field station and nature center, the Institute awards annual grants to undergraduate and graduate students to complete research projects. In addition, both students and staff compile a working species inventory and data archive for the property.
Data Archive Information (PDF)Past Research Information (PDF)
Field Station Opportunities
The Pierce Cedar Creek Institute Biological Field Station works to enhance the health and stability of ecosystems in West Michigan by providing scientific information to support land management decisions.
Pierce Cedar Creek Institute serves as a biological field stations for a consortium of 11 colleges and universities, offering several different funding opportunities for students and faculty from consortium institutions. For more information on the grants download an application below. Questions? Contact Matthew Dykstra, Field Station Manager, at 269-721-4473 or dykstram@cedarcreekinstitute.org.
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Environmental Research Grants
Supports research projects focused on environmental monitoring of critical species and ecosystems and the improvement of land management tools to support ecosystem functioning.
Natural Resource Fellowships
Supports a summer work experience for students interested in careers in natural resources, wildlife, and aquatic resources management. Students work with Institute staff and researchers to complete a variety of projects throughout the summer.
Gordon Art Fellowship
Brings together a love of nature and art and funds a student-mentor team in creating a two-
dimensional visual arts project.
Nature in Words Fellowship
Supports a student-mentor team working on a nature-centered creative writing project such as poetry, essays, or short stories.
Food and Housing Grants
Support student researchers who need on-site housing and food service while conducting research at the Institute or nearby areas. Grants are dependent on the availability of housing.
Education Building & Laboratory
Education Building
5,000 square feet, barrier free, total of 8 rooms
Classroom: Seats 24 to 30
Laboratory Classroom: Seats 24
Study Carrels: For 5 students
Library: A variety of titles on organisms, habitat, wetlands, etc.
Research Laboratory
2,400 square feet, barrier free
Classroom: Seats 24
Herbarium
Wet lab capability