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Regional Innovation and Partnerships

The Great Lakes Institute was developed to enable SUNY Oswego to maximize its main campus location on the shores of Lake Ontario by creating a hub for experiential learning, research and development focused on world-renowned Great Lakes ecosystem and economy of New York including: 

  • fisheries management and marine sanctuary development (tourism);
  • ecological and community resilience and lake levels (economic impact);
  • fresh water use and protection; watershed management (environment and sustainability);
  • teacher education;
  • and climate and meteorological issues.

The Great Lakes Institute is proud to collaborate with regional, state, and national partners who share a commitment to research, education, innovation, and stewardship of our Great Lakes resources. These partnerships create meaningful opportunities for students, faculty, and communities to engage in real-world learning, advance discovery, and strengthen connections across the region.

SUNY Oswego students and Port of Oswego Authority representatives at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new grain testing laboratory.

Port of Oswego

Where Science Meets the Great Lakes Economy

From the laboratory to the lakeshore, the Great Lakes Institute connects students with hands-on opportunities that explore the relationship between science, sustainability, and regional industry. Through SUNY Oswego’s partnership with the Port of Oswego Authority, students gain valuable experience operating a state-of-the-art grain testing laboratory while contributing to the safe and efficient movement of agricultural products through one of the Great Lakes’ key ports. This collaboration demonstrates how experiential learning connects students with real-world applications in science, technology, and the Great Lakes economy.

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Explore Port of Oswego

Two photographers taking photos of the sunset over Lake Ontario, reflecting the importance of preserving the Great Lakes’ natural and cultural heritage.

National Marine Sanctuary

Protecting Our Great Lakes Heritage Through Research and Stewardship

SUNY Oswego and the Great Lakes Institute are proud to support the Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary, a designation that strengthens opportunities for research, education, and community engagement. Through this partnership, students, faculty, and community members can explore the Great Lakes’ rich maritime history, unique ecosystems, and conservation efforts while advancing the understanding and stewardship of our freshwater resources.

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New Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary will facilitate campus research, student opportunities

Explore the Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary

SUNY Oswego biological sciences faculty member Ellen Karboski holds an adult chinook caught on Lake Ontario. Karboski, fellow Oswego faculty member Nicholas Sard and a New York Sea Grant-funded research team are working to assess the competition between stocked and wild salmon in Lake Ontario. (Photo courtesy of Ellen Karboski)

New York Sea Grant

Advancing Great Lakes Research Through Collaboration

New York Sea Grant supports coastal and Great Lakes communities through research, education, and outreach that promote the sustainable use, conservation, and understanding of our freshwater resources. As a university-based program connecting science with real-world applications, NYSG provides valuable opportunities for collaboration, student engagement, and community impact. The Great Lakes Institute’s work aligns with NYSG’s mission to advance environmental literacy, support research partnerships, and develop solutions that protect and strengthen our Great Lakes communities.

Research & Grants News:

SUNY Oswego leads Lake Ontario fisheries study in $1.5M Sea Grant research suite

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Oswego County Tourism

Explore Oswego County Tourism