The Global Ecosystem Research Infrastructure (GERI): Organizational Overview and ongoing development.

Abstract

We recognize that contemporary environmental challenges transcend geopolitical boundaries. The Global Ecosystem Research Infrastructure (GERI) was formed to address the nature and magnitude of these challenges through cross-border global perspectives and collaborations. GERI brings together six large-scale (continental) ecosystem research infrastructures (RIs) from around the world. The GERI member RIs are: SAEON in South Africa, TERN in Australia, CERN in China, NEON in the USA, and ICOS and eLTER in Europe) to federate the programmatic work needed for concerted operations, collaborations, and the provisioning of interoperable data and services. Here, we present the historical activities that brought these RIs together, how we established a structured governance, engagement with other networks, and current overview of GERIs data harmonization and common services activities. We will also present current programmatic challenges as GERI continues to develop internationally and seek community input and involvement.