NAU Tropical Ecology Field School in Belize

Application Deadline: November 2, 2026

Now entering its fourth season, this immersive, field-intensive course offers a rare opportunity to conduct scientific research in one of Central America’s most biodiverse regions while learning and applying wildlife sampling techniques in Belize. Students will work alongside faculty on a multi-year research project focused on tropical cave ecosystems, wildlife monitoring, biodiversity surveys, bat acoustic studies, and habitat mapping. From cave-dwelling insects and bats to other wildlife species, participants will gain hands-on experience collecting and analyzing ecological data while developing practical field research skills.

This program is open to both graduate and undergraduate students.

To apply use the QR code above or use this link.

Sinkhole Conference

If your work touches geohazards, groundwater systems, or infrastructure management, the 18th Multidisciplinary Conference on Sinkholes and the Engineering and Environmental Impacts of Karst is the definitive event of the year. Register now and join geologists, engineers, and environmental scientists gathering in Albany, NY, to tackle the unique challenges of karst.

Earn Professional Development Hours (PDH):

The conference organizers are currently submitting short courses and field trips to the New York State Council of Professional Geologists for PDH approval.

Are you a student interested in attending the Sinkhole Conference?

The Sinkhole Conference offers a Student Registration at just $100. Registration includes two short courses, two days of sessions and multiple ways to collaborate with karst professionals. To learn more, visit https://sinkholeconference.com.

Administrative and Conference Coordinator:

Jenna Crabtree

My name is Jenna Crabtree and I am excited to join the NCKRI team as the Administrative and Conference Coordinator! I look forward to bringing my experience in administrative coordination, event planning and strategic organization, along with my passion for caves and karst, to the role. I am particularly excited to support the cave and karst community through the meaningful behind-the-scenes work that helps NCKRI carry out its mission through conferences, education and outreach, and impactful research.

Joining the NCKRI team is both a personal and professional goal of mine. I have wanted to live in Carlsbad, New Mexico, since I first visited Carlsbad Caverns National Park when I was 11 years old. I am excited to live and work in a place where I can contribute professionally while also being part of a community with abundant opportunities for recreational and project caving. I look forward to helping create a great work environment at NCKRI and becoming an active member of the local caving community, where I hope to be a mentor and resource for others.

Frasassi Caves

In July and August, Dan Jones and Laura Rodríguez conducted fieldwork in the Frasassi Caves, a sulfuric acid cave in central Italy. The Frasassi Caves are actively forming today by the same process that formed Carlsbad Cavern and Lechuguilla Cave 4-6 million years ago. You can read more about sulfuric acid caves in New Mexico in this Earth Matters piece from 2022.