Image: Arthur Tress, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons (source)
You do not need a lab coat to contribute to science. Thousands of research projects rely on volunteers to classify images, count birds, measure rain or play puzzle games that solve real biology problems.
These are the best places to start, and most of them take only a few minutes.
1) Zooniverse
The largest platform for people-powered research, with projects in which volunteers classify galaxies, animals in camera-trap photos, old handwriting and much more.
Best for: Trying many kinds of projects online. Visit Zooniverse
2) iNaturalist
Record observations of plants and animals, share them with researchers and get help identifying what you found.
Best for: Nature walks and identifying species. Visit iNaturalist
3) eBird
Run by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, it turns your bird sightings into data for science and conservation, with range maps and migration data.
Best for: Birdwatchers. Visit eBird
4) SciStarter
A directory that connects people to citizen science projects that match their interests and location.
Best for: Finding a project near you. Visit SciStarter
5) GLOBE Observer
A NASA-supported app in which you photograph clouds, land cover, trees and mosquito habitats to help scientists check satellite data.
Best for: Contributing to NASA-linked research. Visit GLOBE Observer
6) Foldit
A puzzle game in which players fold proteins, and their solutions are used in real biochemistry research.
Best for: Gamers who like puzzles. Visit Foldit
7) Eterna
An online game in which players design RNA molecules that are then tested by scientists.
Best for: Puzzle fans interested in biology. Visit Eterna
8) CoCoRaHS
A network of volunteers who measure rain, hail and snow in their backyards, with data used by weather and climate scientists.
Best for: Backyard weather watchers. Visit CoCoRaHS
9) Journey North
Track wildlife migrations and seasonal change across North America, including monarch butterflies and hummingbirds.
Best for: Following migrations with kids. Visit Journey North
10) Globe at Night
Volunteers measure the brightness of the night sky to help map light pollution.
Best for: Stargazers. Visit Globe at Night
11) Project FeederWatch
A winter survey of the birds that visit backyard feeders, run for decades by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Birds Canada.
Best for: Anyone with a bird feeder. Visit Project FeederWatch
More science resource lists
Every site on this list was checked and loading on 30 October 2026. For more, see Best Astronomy Websites for Stargazers and Space Enthusiasts and Top 10 Biology Websites for Enthusiasts and Experts.