New Program! Final details coming soon.
Overview
Discover the future of climate-smart agriculture on a stunning Greek island, where centuries-old olive groves serve as a living laboratory for sustainability research. This field school investigates how diverse farming practices impact biodiversity and ecosystem health, focusing on the intricate web of life within Mediterranean olive groves—from pollinators and beneficial insects to native plants and pest management. You will engage in hands-on fieldwork and lab analysis to monitor biodiversity of olive groves under different environmental management methods and assess sustainable farming practices. Guided by experts, you will contribute to meaningful research that shapes conservation practices for Mediterranean agro-ecosystems, all while experiencing the warm culture and scenic beauty of Greece’s third largest island.
Field school highlights:
- Conduct cutting-edge conservation research: Gain practical experience using tools like drone imagery and camera systems to monitor olive grove biodiversity.
- Conduct cutting-edge conservation research: Gain practical experience using tools like drone imagery and camera systems to monitor olive grove biodiversity
- Soak up Greek island life: Enjoy weekends exploring idyllic beaches, quaint villages, and traditional Greek cuisine, with program excursions that highlight the island’s unique history and warm hospitality.
| Course Details | |
|---|---|
| Course Dates | July 1-31, 2025 |
| Course Type | Environmental Science, Conservation |
| Instructors | Thanasis Kizos, Thomas Tscheulin, George Stavrianakis |
| Credits* | TBA semester (TBA quarter) |
| Apply By | March 1 |
| Fees Due By | April 15 |
| Program Fees | (2025) |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $4,475 |
| Transcript Fee* | $300 |
| Health & Evacuation Insurance | $130 |
| Room & Partial Board | $820 |
| TOTAL: | $5,725 |
*Please email admissions@ifrglobal.org for any application issues.
Applications accepted on a rolling basis until program fills or final deadline passes.
Instructors
The directors welcome emails and inquiries about the research elements of this project. More general information (tuition, health insurance, and payment schedule) can be found under the ‘Students’ tab above. Any further questions may be addressed to IFR staff. Additional details about research, course schedule, travel, accommodation, and safety can be found on the syllabus. Contacting the directors or the IFR office is encouraged and appreciated. It may help you determine if this field school is a good fit for you.
Testimonials
This is a new IFR field school. No student testimonials are available at this time.
Payment & Student Fees
Application Fee: There is a $45 fee to submit an online application.
Deposit Payment: A nonrefundable $500 deposit is due within 3 weeks of program acceptance in order to secure your place. The remainder of your program fees are due by the deadline indicated under “Course Details”.
*Transcript Fee & Academic Credit Opt Out: If you wish to participate in an IFR field school without earning academic credits, you will not be charged a transcript fee.
For more information about payment, fees, and policies, please see details under our Payment & Finances and Withdrawal and Cancellation Policy pages.
Accommodations
Located in Lesvos’ coastal capital of Mytilene, the program’s accommodation offers an immersive experience in a welcoming, student-friendly community. With bustling daily markets, cozy cafés, bakeries, restaurants, and public beaches all within easy reach, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to experience the local rhythm of Greek island life during your free time. You’ll stay in modern, secure student dorms in downtown Mytilene, where you can easily connect with other international exchange students.
- Shared, well-equipped dorms with kitchens and outdoor space
- Self-catering program, giving you the freedom to cook for yourself or try affordable, healthy local dining
- Central downtown location, with amenities easily accessible by foot
- University labs and classrooms are a 10-minute bus ride away; field sites are reached by shared program vehicles
- Convenient bus and ferry options for exploring Lesvos or even Turkey on weekends
MEALS: Lunches will be provided, but you will provide your own breakfast and dinners. You will have access to a kitchen and local eateries.
Travel Info
Natural disasters, political changes, weather conditions and various other factors may force the cancellation or alteration of a field school. IFR recommends students only purchase airline tickets that are fully refundable and consider travel insurance in case a program or travel plans must change for any reason.
General information for this program is below, but keep in mind we will discuss any updated travel information and regulations during the required program orientation, which could affect travel plans.
Travel Info Coming Soon!
VISA REQUIREMENTS
Info for US citizens coming soon! Citizens of other countries are asked to check the embassy website page at their home country for specific visa requirements