Instructional Leadership, emphasis: K-12 School Leadership (MEd)
Student working with testing samples in the laboratory.
  1. NAU
  2. CEFNS
  3. Research

Research

At the College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences (CEFNS), we believe innovation begins with bold experimentation. Our cutting-edge research initiatives are making waves in forest restoration, alternative energy development, genome studies, and more. We’re dedicated to research that drives sustainability efforts and enhances quality of life in our communities.

Plants that were just watered

Faculty involvement Research activities

NAU faculty members are constantly engaged in research. CEFNS students can find opportunities to get involved by exploring faculty areas of interest and contacting faculty members for more information.

 

Faculty involvement Faculty directory

Student opportunities and resources

Two lab students looking at a laptop.

Centers and institutes

With more than 30 university-funded research centers and expert faculty assistance, you will have numerous opportunities to conduct your own hands-on research and prepare for your future.

Learn more about our affiliate research centers.
Student observing a microscope

Labs

Boasting numerous faculty research labs, CEFNS is a major hub for research in all natural sciences. Opportunities abound for students to get hands-on experience.

Explore our labs to find your new project.

Other ways to get involved

Research Initiative for Scientific Enhancement (RISE)

NAU Research Initiative for Scientific Enhancement (RISE) aims to boost diversity in biomedical, behavioral, and clinical research by supporting research activities. Northern Arizona University plans to increase the number of Native American and underrepresented scientists pursuing PhDs in STEM fields related to environmental health. The program provides culturally relevant support, hands-on research experience, and a customized curriculum to help students advance through bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.

Sloan Multi-Institutional Transformation and Graduate Student Support Initiative (MITSI)

The MITSI program assists undergraduate students from historically underrepresented backgrounds in transitioning to STEM master’s programs at NAU and other institutions. It also aims to establish a network of faculty mentors who are well trained and attentive to the needs of students from historically excluded groups. Funded by The Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, Northern Arizona University, and Genentech, this initiative aims to drive systemic change in recruiting, training, and placing students from historically underrepresented groups into graduate STEM pathways.

Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (SNNA-LSAMP)

The Southern Nevada Northern Arizona Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (SNNA-LSAMP) program provides several initiatives aimed at increasing the number of STEM baccalaureate and graduate degrees awarded to populations historically underrepresented in these disciplines, specifically: African Americans, Hispanic Americans, American Indians, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, and Native Pacific Islanders. Through personalized outreach and individualized support, we strive to encourage enrollment in STEM degree programs, build community, promote academic achievement, increase STEM degree attainment, and prepare students for advanced degrees and STEM careers.

Funding

Office of Sponsored Projects

The Office of Sponsored Projects (OSP) is the university’s centralized office responsible for authorizing extramural funding proposals submitted to sponsors, negotiating with sponsors, and accepting awards. A service-oriented team, OSP is dedicated to Northern Arizona University’s research and academic missions. They are committed to excellence in providing support of sponsored projects. Each unit has their own set of OSP contacts. Find out more about ways they can support your goals.

Learn more about the Office of Sponsored Projects

Become a research partner

Research partnerships allow us to create solutions and meet mutual goals. Partnering with CEFNS means harnessing our strengths to advance your goals while providing support for the CEFNS educational mission. As a partner, you can use our expertise and laboratory technology to meet your research needs and increase your company’s potential for growth.

If you are interested in working with the College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences, please contact Kimberly.Kliman@nau.edu or Jason.Wilder@nau.edu.