GLEON is a network of people, lakes and data.
- People: Individual membership is the route to the people-side of the network. This includes the science, generation of hypothesis, and sharing of ideas, experiences and expertise. Members include, but are not limited to expertise in limnology and broader environmental science, the computing aspects, and sensing technology.
- Lakes: GLEON lake observatories are lakes that have been part of GLEON research and/or where associated researchers can provide access to various types of knowledge, data and infrastructure.
- Data: a fundamental component of GLEON activities is the sharing of data in an open, accessible manner, to develop a network of lake data.
Individual Members
GLEON is primarily a network of ~1000 people with students comprising about a third of the membership. The GLEON Student Association (GSA) and GLEON Post-student Association (GPA) are an active and vital part of the global network.
Membership in GLEON provides access to a network of individuals with a strong interest in limnology or environmental science and the role of technology in answering fundamental and applied research questions, as well as a network of sensor-equipped GLEON Lake observatories and access to shared data.
Benefits include:
- Exchange of knowledge and data on the ecological phenomena that occur in lakes around the globe;
- Collaborate to test and validate limnological or environmental hypotheses in different lakes through data sharing and/or collaboration with other GLEON members;
- Support from other GLEON members in the development and improvement of observatory technologies and data management;
- Access to an on-going discussion about global lake ecological issues and access to data and collaborative partners to address these;
- Affiliation with a more formalized research network that can be used to enhance competitive power for funds; and
- Opportunities to provide leadership for and gain experience in a global community of researchers.
Commitment of Members
A key concept of commitment is the desire to participate in GLEON, collaborate with other members, and to contribute to advancing GLEON’s mission. Furthermore, all members must endorse and express a willingness to adhere to GLEON’s Operating Principles and Procedures, Code of Conduct, and the shared values and means of conducting GLEON’s operations.
Each Member should seek to:
- Promote the mission, vision and values of GLEON, and
- Participate actively in the formulation and implementation of activities.
Membership Application
To apply for or update your membership with GLEON, please use use this application form.
Note: Beginning in 2026, all members must complete this form, whether you are new to GLEON or have been involved in the network for many years.
Lake Observatories
GLEON is also a network of lake observatories with research sites on hundreds of lakes across six continents. These lakes provide large gradients in size, shape, trophic status, climatic settings and cultural settings.
As of 2024, GLEON has discontinued its site membership program.
Stay tuned for more information about registering as a GLEON lake observatory.