National
Socio-Environmental Synthesis Center

Bridging boundaries for research & discovery.

The National Socio-Environmental Synthesis Center (SESYNC) brings together the science of the natural world with the science of social systems and decision making to solve problems at the human-environment interface. For 10 years, SESYNC has accelerated research and learning that seeks to understand the structure, functioning, and sustainability of coupled social and environmental systems. To further this work, we invite you to explore our research and learning resources.

Learn more about us.

Center Highlights

Octávio Frias de Oliveira Bridge and United Nations Business Center (CENU), Sao Paulo, Brazil

Lesson: Spatial Ecology Lesson: Land Sparing versus Land Sharing

This lesson introduces learners to spatial ecology, including how access to green spaces enhances health and well-being among human groups, and how the spatial arrangement of natural habitats influences epidemiological outcomes.

Our Latest Newsletter – May 2025

SESYNC Leadership has published a new guide with steps and tools for conducting actionable research. Check it out along with our other resources on the topic!

Explainer: What Are Ethnographic Methods?

This accessible explainers gives learners an introductory explainer of ethnographic methods, including examples of their use in published research.