Welcome to EMERGE!
This statewide initiative invites people in Florida and beyond, of all ages and backgrounds, to participate in meaningful, data-driven science focused on mosquito-borne disease, environmental change, and public health.
Whether you’re a library staff member organizing local events, a teacher looking for classroom materials, a public health official exploring local data, or simply a curious learner — you belong here.
You can learn more about EMERGE on our About page.
What does EMERGE offer?
1. Open-Access Curriculum
Our 5-chapter EMERGE curriculum walks participants through foundational science concepts, data analysis skills, and satellite tools. It’s designed for classrooms, libraries, clubs, and independent learners. Each chapter builds knowledge through real GLOBE Observer data and interactive activities.
2. Mini-Grants for Libraries & Community-Based Organizations
We offered $300 mini-grants to help Florida-based libraries and grassroots groups host in-person citizen science events using EMERGE tools. Includes training, print materials, and planning support.
→ Learn more. Applications are now closed.
3. GLOBE Observer Participation
Anyone can participate by downloading the free GLOBE Observer app. No prior experience needed. Use it to report mosquito habitats or land cover conditions in your area — every data point helps researchers and planners.
4. Local Data Camps
Host your own EMERGE Data Camp using our guides and curriculum. We provide supply lists, activities, and facilitation tips for groups of all sizes.
→ Learn how to host your own event
5. Events & Contests
Watch recorded events like our Virtual Kickoff Week webinars, with webinars for all types, and the Data Visualization Contest, where community members across Florida shared what they’ve learned with maps, graphics, and more.
→ Read the recap of our in-person Hackathon and Data Viz contest
Who should start where?
We recommend different starting points depending on your goals and role in the community.
LIBRARIES
Bring citizen science to your patrons. Apply for a mini-grant, host a data camp, or integrate GLOBE tools into existing programs.
We recommend you check out these pages first:
EDUCATORS
Use EMERGE to teach real-world science, data literacy, and environmental concepts through project-based learning aligned with your curriculum.
We recommend you check out these pages first:
LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND AGENCIES
Explore how citizen-collected data can inform local public health and resilience strategies. Use maps and satellite data to identify mosquito hotspots and environmental patterns.
We recommend you check out these pages first:
AMBASSADORS
Ambassadors (many of them affiliated with SciStarter) are very motivated volunteers getting others involved in citizen science. We invite you to host outreach events or workshops using our free curriculum and tools. Your leadership helps expand access to science across Florida.
We recommend you check out these pages first:
GENERAL PUBLIC
Get started right away by downloading the GLOBE Observer app and collecting data in your community. Then explore what it means.
We recommend you check out these pages first:
Still have questions?
Visit our About for more on our mission, research, and partnerships — or contact us directly.
We’re here to support your journey into environmental science, no matter where you begin.
