The investment aims to provide “unparalleled opportunities” for undergraduate students to gain hands-on experience in biology and environmental science. A semester in the program introduces students to field work and environmental research, equipping them with experiences and references to move forward with their education and careers.

"The Highlands Field Site provides tremendous training opportunities for the students, and it provides a leg up for them when they're searching for their next job or position,” said Rada Petric, Ph.D., local field biologist and HFS Director. “We find that it increases the likelihood of students' succeeding and exploring spaces in the field they haven't considered before."

This program is a collaborative effort between UNC-Chapel Hill’s Institute for the Environment, the Highlands Biological Station (a multi-campus center of Western Carolina University), the Highlands Biological Foundation and several regional organizations. Funding provided by the Foundation is made possible by support from the local community. Learn more at highlandsbiological.org/foundation.