Citizen Science

This project has shown that by utilizing the innate visual recognition and learning capabilities of human crowds it is possible to conduct reliable microscopic analysis of biomedical samples and make diagnostics decisions based on crowd-sourcing of microscopic data through intelligently designed and entertaining games...using crowd-sourced games it is possible to approach the accuracy of medical experts in making such diagnoses.

Loud and Bright is a volunteer light and sound monitoring program in development at UCLA to discover the impacts of light and sound pollution on bird populations.

Invasive species are a threat to native plants and animals, crowding natives, consuming food sources, or acting as fire hazards. This project has found that having groups such as schools run short-term "campaigns" is highly effective for locating invasive species. Join the fight against invasive species!

Part of the UCLA Institute of the Environment and Sustainability, the LaKretz Center's Citizen Science Program focuses on projects "protecting and preserving local habitats and species." Volunteers can help map backyard reptile communities, study the effects of run-off in our oceans, and more.

Every plant tells a story. Whether you have an afternoon or a whole season, you can make an important contribution to a better understanding of changing climates.

The NHM has a wide variety of citizen science projects for studying local biodiversity, including the Southern California Squirrel Survey and the ZomBee Watch. You can take a look at their website to learn more about their projects and participate in workshops or meetups for NHM-based citizen science prjoects!