Research and volunteering
Social Cooperative Enterprise (SCE) Apano Meria is active in Syros, with the aim of highlighting, protecting and preserving the northern part of the island (Apano Meria), which is a Natura protected area. We work to promote and strengthen sustainable activities in Apano Meria.
Recently we created a space where you can stay and work together with other researchers, with a vision of supporting alternative and sustainable development, having a positive impact on the local community and the environment.
Syros and especially Apano Meria have a strong biological and geological interest. Also noteworthy is the historical interest of the island, from prehistoric (the settlements of Chalandriani and Kastri) to modern times (industrial development of the 19th & 20th centuries, etc.).
If you are working on a project, research or idea related to conservation, study or fieldwork, about the island of Syros, or if you want to volunteer in a related program, we invite you to work with us to make a difference.
By participating in our activities you contribute to social and environmental impact goals (supporting the SCE and its employees, planting endemic plants, supporting research grants, offsetting carbon footprint, etc.)
Highlighting, protecting and preserving the northern part of Syros island.
The program
As part of your participation in the program and the research base, you can participate in the following (indicative list):
Research:
- Independent field research in Syros (all fields welcome).
- Environmental Policy & Law
You can also choose our program while you travel to Syros for a conference or other academic activity.
Volunteering:
- Plastic recycling and upcycling (Precious Plastic lab)
- Creating and enriching Maps (GIS) of Syros.
- Traditional primary production
- Support the activities of the SCE (construction, maintenance, renovations etc)
- Support the activities of the SCE (sales, exhibitions, events etc)
- Oral History and Traditional Knowledge Recording (In cooperation with Archipelagos Network)
We provide free access to all workshops, seminars and events organized by the SCE.
The research base
As program participants, you will be living and working together (with up to 9 people at a time) on our base, interacting with people from all over the world.
The research base is an independent building in Ermoupoli, Syros, which offers many possibilities. It consists of:
- 1 office / co-working space
- 1 living room
- 1 recreation room
- 1 kitchen / dining room
- 3 bedrooms
- 2 bathrooms
It is properly equipped to serve your everyday needs during your participation in the program, offering a comfortable living.
The building is in a quiet location, while also making it easy to get around the city on foot. Outside the base there is a garden and a courtyard.
Participation information
Cost
All our programs are considered cultural education residencies.
The organizational cost for all programmes is 60€ / day.
Accommodation
SCE Apano Meria provides free accommodation at its Base in three non-gender-specific dormitories. We also provide breakfast and lunch 5 days each week, transportation to the field and to the respective activities.
Minimum time to participate
As a minimum time to participate we recommend at least 14 days for the research programs (20 hours of research work) and 10 days for the volunteering program (12 hours of volunteer work).
There is no maximum time limit.
Period of participation
We recommend that you do not limit yourself to the tourist season (July-August), for your own comfort and ease of access to the island and the various infrastructures. We accept applications throughout the year. Don’t rule out the winter months, when the climate is mild and the environment of the Cyclades is beautiful and thriving. Contact us to discuss and find the best period for you.
Individual or group participation
You can participate in the program individually or as a group. For individual booking information and expressions of interest, please complete the form below. For group activities and reservations, please contact us to adapt the program to your needs.