Research centers and institutes
Along with area partners, CEFNS students explore the world beyond the classroom
More than 30 university-funded research institutes and centers give Northern Arizona University faculty and students the opportunity to:
- shape public policy
- provide research that impacts our environment and our communities
- contribute to the economic development within our state
NAU’s partners in research and education
Center for Ecosystem Science and Society (Ecoss) Accordion Closed
The Center for Ecosystem Science and Society (Ecoss) at Northern Arizona University seeks to understand ecosystems and how and why they change. The vision of Ecoss is to understand ecosystem function and change from the cell to the globe and their implications for the future on Earth.
Colorado Plateau Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CPCESU) Accordion Closed
The Colorado Plateau Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CPCESU) is a cooperative network, transcending political and institutional boundaries, which creates innovative opportunities for research, education, and technical assistance in support of the management and stewardship by partner agencies of the Colorado Plateau’s natural, cultural, and social resources.
Colorado Plateau Research Station (CPRS) Accordion Closed
The Colorado Plateau Research Station is an NAU biological research organization. Its mission is to provide high-quality, objective science to support sound management of natural resources, with a focus on Department of Interior lands. Major areas of research include:
- ecoregional studies
- climate change
- endangered species
- vegetation distribution
- ecology and dynamics
- data management and dissemination
- inventory and monitoring studies
- cave ecosystems
- wildlife ecology
Ecological Restoration Institute (ERI) Accordion Closed
The Ecological Restoration Institute works to help land management agencies and communities by providing comprehensive focused studies, monitoring and evaluation research, and technical support.
Teaching and Research Machine Shop Accordion Closed
With more than 3,000 projects completed in 20 years, the CEFNS Teaching & Research Machine Shop is the place to bring your ideas for research, lab, or field-oriented equipment fabrication. The shop provides design consultation and fabrication using a variety of materials and machining services, including milling, grinding, welding, lathe work, and cutting of all types of materials. Materials include wood, plastics, steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and brass.