CLACS is developing NEXO, a research platform for Latin America, using a model distinct from other ISP research consortia such as AAP and Asia Hub. NEXO leverages horizontal researcher-to-researcher relationships between MSU faculty and their partners from top institutions in Latin America around themes of shared interest. Flexible and driven by researchers themselves, this network-of-networks model enables collaborating faculty to quickly conceptualize projects, develop proposals, and secure funding to address contemporary challenges. Each member of a thematic network has their own professional networks that include other experts from their home institutions as well as research collaborators across the world, who can be drawn into this initiative as new opportunities emerge and additional forms of expertise are required. To date, CLACS has supported the development of three networks (below). Faculty interested in connecting with one of these networks or launching a new thematic network should contact CLACS Director Laurie Medina (medina(at)msu.edu).

The Amazon and Climate Change

CLACS supported social scientists Emilio Moran (GEO), Maria Claudia Lopez (CSUS), and Nathan Moore (GEO) and biophysical scientist Scott Stark (FOR) and their partners from top Brazilian research institutions to expand and deepen their collaboration through a new project that aims to reverse forest degradation through the development of a sustainable bioeconomy in the Amazon.

Racial and Gender Justice Across the Americas

CLACS supported social scientists Emilio Moran (GEO), Maria Claudia (CSUS), and Nathan Moore (GEO) and biophysical scientist Scott Stark (FOR) and their partners from top Brazilian research institutions to expand and deepen their collaboration through a new project that aims to reverse forest degradation through the development of a sustainable bioeconomy in the Amazon.

Sustaining Ecosystems and Livelihoods in Mexico/Central America

CLACS has supported efforts by Abby Bennett (FW), David MacFarlane (FOR), and David Mota-Sanchez (ENT) to develop research partnerships with colleagues from UNAM and Chapingo in Mexico to pursue collaborative work on the socio-ecological systems that link mangrove forests, fisheries, and human livelihoods in Mexico. There is potential to expand the spatial focus to include the whole Caribbean coast of Central America, given the shared ecosystems and shared challenges that characterize this larger region.