International Science Group Looks to National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) as Example of What’s Working in Global Research Infrastructure

BOULDER, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--When the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) hosted, for the first time, a meeting of the Group of Senior Officials (GSO) for Global Research Infrastructures, NEON project staff members from Battelle were asked to share details of their recent work to build and operate the ecological Observatory.

The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a continental-scale ecological observation facility, sponsored by the NSF and operated by Battelle since 2016. The NEON project collects and provides free and open data that characterizes and quantifies complex, rapidly changing ecological processes across the United States. The project’s comprehensive data, spatial extent and remote sensing technology will enable the user community to tackle new questions both on larger (continental) and longer (decadal) scales.

The GSO, established as part of the G-7 group of seven nations with the largest, most advanced economies in the world, gathered recently in Tallahassee, Florida at the Florida State University’s National High Magnetic Field Laboratory. The lab, which is the largest and highest-powered magnet lab in the world, is seen as a leading example of international cooperation through science.

As part of the discussions, NEON project leadership also were asked to present case studies on international collaboration and programmatic best practices. Battelle’s management of the NEON project was hailed as an example of best practices and innovative solutions to emulate in future Global Research Infrastructure projects. Moreover, Battelle-NEON also highlighted the need for new mechanisms to strengthen international relationships that foster the advancement of science for society and our economy.

The GSO has developed a framework for global research infrastructure best practices and as part of the evolving nature of the framework, it evaluates case studies and policy in the member nations.

“We’re proud that the National Science Foundation thinks enough of our work at NEON to share it with these high-level visitors,” said Rick Farnsworth, NEON program manager. “We’ve worked very hard to ensure this complex, first-of-its-kind project meets its intended goals and we’re happy to share with our international colleagues.”

About Battelle

Every day, the people of Battelle apply science and technology to solving what matters most. At major technology centers and national laboratories around the world, Battelle conducts research and development, designs and manufactures products, and delivers critical services for government and commercial customers. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio since its founding in 1929, Battelle serves the national security, health and life sciences, and energy and environmental industries. For more information, visit www.battelle.org.

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