The data produced at LTER sites are an extraordinary scientific resource that can inform a wide variety of questions. Among-site comparisons interrogate the generality of effects observed at particular sites. Modeling efforts employ long term observations and experiments to formulate and test rigorous descriptions of theory. Scaling exercises get at the continental or even global impacts of documented effects. LTER synthesis working groups organized through the LTER Network Office (LNO) are intended to support collaboration on these and many other types of questions.
In the 2019 competition, the LNO expects to award 2-4 synthesis working groups at a funding level of up to $55,000 per year for up to two years.
Required proposal elements and instructions are below. Proposals are due at October 23, 2019, 5:00 p.m. PDT. Please see the sidebar at right for additional synthesis resources.
If you have further questions please contact proposals@lternet.edu for submission details or caselle@ucsb.edu or downs@nceas.ucsb.edu for overall questions.
What makes a synthesis working group?
LTER synthesis working groups do:
- analyze and synthesize LTER data
- employ data from multiple sites (The archive of LTER data is freely available and searchable at the Environmental Data Initiative.)
- involve individuals who are familiar with the sites and data
- draw on publicly available data
- make derived data products publicly available
- strive to follow best practices for reproducible science
LTER synthesis working groups may:
- include data and researchers who are not part of the LTER Network
- address LTER’s 7 core areas
- address novel and important questions that do not fall under the core areas
LTER synthesis working groups do not:
- collect new data
- fund salaries
Key Dates
8/22: Informational Webinar #1 (view recording)
9/17: Informational Webinar #2
10/23: Proposals Due
January 2020: Awards announced
February 2020: Projects begin
