Santa Cruz County is a county located on the Central Coast of California. It is known for its beautiful coastline, redwood forests, and vibrant beach towns. The research area in Santa Cruz County may encompass a wide range of topics including environmental sustainability, marine biology, agriculture, and social issues such as homelessness and affordable housing. The University of California, Santa Cruz is a major research institution in the county, focusing on fields such as biology, ecology, and astrophysics. Other research institutions in the area may study the impact of climate change on coastal ecosystems, sustainable agriculture practices, and the effects of tourism on local communities.