The IJC Great Lakes Science Advisory board is partnering with researchers at Michigan State University (MSU) to conduct a research study using social network analysis to support the Great Lakes Science Plan. This study collected data from participants during Spring and Summer of 2025. The data collection has concluded. The final reporting is expected fall 2025.
Objectives
- Understand the network of institutions involved in conducting and/or funding Great Lakes science.
- Contribute towards increased coordination, collaboration and support for development of the Great Lakes Science Plan.
Methods
- The research team is connecting with institutions to obtain permission and identify prospective study participants.
- Participants are asked for their consent, and then to complete an online questionnaire about:
- The organization, sector, discipline, and scale of their work,
- The individuals and organizations they regularly interact with when conducting Great Lakes science activities, and
- Events where they frequently conduct/discuss Great Lakes science activities.
Results
- The research team will summarize responses in network graphics, charts/graphs and a report.
- Findings will be presented to organizations participating in the development of the Great Lakes Science Plan, as well as other public audiences, and may be published in a peer-reviewed journal.
- Findings will help inform the Great Lakes Science Plan, as well as future outreach, engagement and communications activities.
Data Management
- Responses are confidential and participants' identifying information is removed by the research team.
- The study's data management plan provides additional details.
- MSU researchers helped the IJC to design the study, which was reviewed and approved as exempt by MSU's institutional review board.
How To Participate
- Data collection concluded on July 20, 2025.