Cave and karst scientists blend the knowledge of multiple disciplines to understand cave and karst features, their resources, and the human interactions within these systems. Anthropology, archeology, biology, chemistry, climatology, economic geology, earth science, ecology, geography, hydrogeology, microbiology, microclimatology, mycology, oceanography, and planetary science all have areas focusing in cave and karst research. Civil and environmental engineers also apply cave and karst science to build safer transportation networks and structures.
NCKRI is committed to expanding these areas of research by creating new ways for undergraduate and graduate students to explore their interest in caves and karst through the Cave and Karst Studies Program at New Mexico Tech, and supporting scientists at academic and research institutions across the United States through its national grant programs .