Round Table Sessions
We are pleased to bring you four diverse, interactive round table sessions to be offered Wednesday afternoon of Week 1 and Week 2.
Wednesday, April 21 | 3:30pm–5:00pm
Session 14: Next-Gen Methods for Invasive Species Management
Novel synthetic biology tools, like CRISPR, are promising biocontrol alternatives that provide potential species-specific and/or self-propagating targets to suppress invasive species populations and aid with their management. To responsibly investigate these tools, proper regulation, communication, and logistics are required. This session will explore recent findings, future applications, and ways to address the complex nature of applying these technologies to ecosystem restoration efforts.
Session 15: Tribal Perspectives: Lessons Learned and Best Practices for Effective Collaboration
Residents within and around the Everglades share a goal of restoring the Everglades to a healthy ecosystem. Native American Tribes have resided in the Everglades since long before developers moved into the area in the 1880s when they began to drain the Everglades. Determining the best way to restore the Everglades – to not do more harm than good – has sometimes been a source of tension between agencies and tribes. Tribes and agencies have worked well together to achieve ecosystem restoration in many regions. Traditional perspectives can enhance restoration success through the deep understanding tribes hold on ecosystem dynamics and reference conditions. In this session, we will hear from local tribes as well as tribes in other parts of the US to share lessons learned and discuss best practices for effective collaboration.
Wednesday, April 28 | 3:30PM - 5:00PM
Session 34: Diversity & Inclusion Round Table
While most Americans agree that racial diversity is important in the workplace, Black, Indigenous, and Hispanic Americans are underrepresented in STEM. Many organizations have commitments to increase diversity, yet these efforts fail to produce equitable and inclusive workplaces. The Everglades is no exception, despite being in one of the most diverse areas of the U.S. In this round table, we discuss fostering an inclusive culture, increasing retention, and creating equitable opportunities.
Session 35: Career Forum for Upcoming College Graduates and Early Career Professionals
What job prospects do I have when I complete my degree? How can I continue to conduct environmental research and influence Everglades restoration? What could my career path look like in an environmental field? What would ‘a day in the life’ be like in different environmental science organizations? If these are questions you are pondering, the GEER Career Forum is for you. Panelists from an array of local, state, to government organizations, non-governmental organizations, and academia will give a brief overview of their career disciplines, backgrounds, and trajectories. Bring your questions and join in a lively discussion.