Research

The Center for Culture, History, and Environment (CHE) is committed to the pursuit of excellence in research, outreach, and inclusion as inextricably linked goals.

CHE draws together faculty, academic staff, graduate students, and others, from a wide array of disciplines — in the humanities, social sciences, and biophysical sciences — to investigate environmental and cultural change in the full sweep of human history.

Consistent with its mission, CHE’s research initiative encourages multidisciplinary collaborations in environmental research at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and beyond. CHE sponsors research working groups at various stages of development — from the initial exchange of ideas to the development of funding proposals or research products. Working group projects that have been sufficiently developed are eligible to apply to receive funding from CHE.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact CHE (che@nelson.wisc.edu) before submitting a proposal.

Joshua Calhoun examining a piece of handmade paper outdoors while several other sheets rest on a stone surface beside him. — Joshua Calhoun studies the history of papermaking and how it has enabled the exchange of information. His work also explores the environmental history of books and other media.

Anika Rice and a woman smiling together while standing in a rural garden with stone-lined planting beds. — Anika Rice (left) works with grassroots agroecology organizations in Guatemala. Pictured here with a leader of Qachuu Aloom, a seed-saving organization in Rabinal, Baja Verapaz, Anika is interested in the gendered impacts of COVID-19 and other crises on small producers.

Randy Jackson standing in a field of blooming yellow wildflowers under a clear sky. — Randy Jackson seeks to understand how our agricultural management of agroecosystems influences their ability to provide many ecosystem services to humans.

Margaux Crider takes a selfie in front of a row of solar panels where a small flock of sheep grazes in the grass. — Margaux Crider conducts qualitative research at the Sinsinawa Mound, a community of Catholic nuns in southwest Wisconsin.

Benefits of CHE-Sponsored Research Working Groups

Eligibility to receive funds for research-related costs

Grant-writing support/sponsorship (when applicable)

Access to the vast network of CHE faculty, graduate student, and community associates as potential collaborators

Access to CHE’s conference room or lounge for group meetings

Opportunities to present research to the CHE community

Research featured on CHE’s website and publicized by CHE and the Nelson Institute of Environmental Studies