About Vassar’s Environmental Research Institute (ERI)

The Environmental Research Institute (ERI) is a research and public outreach wing of Vassar’s Environmental Studies program. The ERI’s mission is to provide opportunities for faculty and students to conduct research on Earth’s environmental systems, to promote fieldwork, and to foster engagement with the local community. To meet these goals, the ERI promotes and funds multidisciplinary science research and education, hosts educational events and conferences, and acts as a bridge to the larger Hudson Valley community on environmental concerns.

  • ERI By-laws:  describes the functions, structures, and processes of ERI.
  • Steering Committee 2023-2024: Jodi Schwarz (Biology, ERI Coordinator), Leah Bendavid (Chemistry), Laura Haynes (Earth Science), Yvonne Elet (Art), Leonard Nevarez (Sociology and Urban Studies), Kirsten Menking (ENST Director)
  • ERI Administrative Assistant: Darcy Gordineer (also serves as ENST Administrative Assistant)

Funding Opportunities

For Environmental Research by Faculty and Students

For Student Summer Research / Internships

For faculty to teach ENST 254: Environmental Science in the Field field component

Affiliated Organizations and Offices

Affiliated Campus Groups

Affiliated Regional Groups

Page modified 5/2019.