The Harvard Forest welcomes research by any investigator that is compatible with the goals of the Harvard Forest research program, the integrity of the ecosystem, and the cultural and aesthetic characteristics of the site.
What you need to know about doing research at Harvard Forest
Harvard Forest has many resources available for visiting researchers. Please review the resources and policies below before filling out a Research Project Application (RPA). RPAs are required for all projects at Harvard Forest. Fees for these resources are listed on the Forest User Fee Schedule.
Returning Researchers
If you are a returning researcher and need to request housing, update an RPA, or create a new RPA, please go to the researcher login page.
Research Facilities and Resources
Harvard Forest provides a wide variety of research facilities both in the field and laboratory to assist in performing research on our campus. Please review the information in Site and Facilities. For more information contact the Site Manager.
If you will be doing field research, please review the Field Research Checklist and Field Safety Basics.
Research Policies
Please review Harvard Forest Research Policies before requesting use of facilities.
Information Management
Harvard Forest provides facilities for long-term archiving and online access to scientific data through its Data Archive. All researchers must submit copies of data and relevant documents for long-term archiving at the Forest. For more information contact Information Manager. Researchers must adhere to the Harvard Forest Data Policies for the submission of research data and metadata.
Meeting Facilities
Meeting space for small to large groups, with AV capabilities is available. Contact the Department Coordinator with questions. Fees for this service can be found in the User Fee Schedule.
Housing and Accommodations
Limited short and long-term housing is available for staff and researchers with an approved RPA. These fully furnished apartments include linens as well as basic cooking and eating utensils. To request housing for yourself or others associated with your RPA, go to the researcher login page. Please request housing at least 7 days before your arrival date. If you need housing sooner, request a bunkhouse bed instead.
For those needing simple accommodations for themselves on short notice, a bare-bones bunkhouse is also available. Please note that the bunkhouse requires guests to bring their own sleeping bag and towels.
Learn more about the surrounding area and staying in Petersham. Please contact the Department Coordinator with questions.
Research Project Application (RPA)
Use the Research Project Application to submit a request to initiate a new project or to detail the annual update regarding ongoing research projects. Contact Audrey Barker Plotkin if you have any questions related to the Research Project Application process.
All researchers are expected to follow our Research Policies and abide by the Harvard Forest Code of Conduct.