Anyone can participate in science!
Participatory science is a collaboration between scientists and public volunteers to gather new knowledge about the world. Participatory science includes community science, citizen science, community-based monitoring and other types of research that depend on knowledge, insights or observations from the public.
Participatory science can transform communities, advance research and help people across the globe. For example, over the last 10 years, 31,000 volunteers have classified 350,000 images of space! You don't have to be an expert to get involved in a project. With a wide variety of topics to choose from, there’s something for all ages. You can also join in as frequently as you're able.
How can I get involved?
The James River is an important Richmond landmark. Did you know:
- It is the largest river in Virginia at more than 340 miles long.
- It is the largest roosting area on the eastern seaboard for bald eagles.
- It is a critical habitat for Atlantic sturgeon, a species that has existed for 120 million years.
- Almost 3 million Virginians rely on the river for their drinking water.
Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, James River Watch volunteers help monitor river conditions. Volunteers are trained in the spring and work in teams each week in the summer. At 32 different sites along the James River, volunteers collect and analyze the river level, temperature, turbidity and bacteria levels. These results are shared on a map managed by James River Watch so river-goers know where it is safe to swim.
The river’s health is tied to our own health and wellbeing so it is important to know what is in the water. If you have been wanting to dip your toe into water quality sampling, or just want to spend more time on the James this summer, sign up to participate in the James River Association’s James River Watch!
Ongoing Participatory Science Opportunities
There’s no shortage of discoveries left to be made. Visit scistarter.org, zooniverse.org and citizenscience.gov to check out dozens of other participatory science opportunities. There’s something for everyone!
Participatory Science at the Science Museum
The Science Museum’s 2017 project Throwing Shade mobilized volunteers and partners from around Richmond to evaluate urban heat vulnerability. Data collected helped show that temperatures in the city during a heat wave can vary as much as 16 °F from the coolest to the warmest places.
From 2019 through 2023, volunteers helped the Science Museum collect data about hyperlocal air quality as part of RVAir. Funded in part by the Institute of the Museum and Library Services, RVAir worked with community collaborators to help measure particulate matter in Richmond neighborhoods.
Using portable AirBeam devices, community members collected air quality data on over 600 walks throughout the Richmond area. Additionally, over 35 permanent Purple Air sensors were installed across the city and are continuing to collect air quality in real time.