Undergrad Research Opportunities 2/6/17
1) Amphibian research assistants needed
– Field research assistant: Field work involves surveying amphibian populations in and around the Fort Polk military base near Leesville, LA and the Pymatuning Laboratory of Ecology near Linesville, PA, for chytrid fungal pathogens. Requires both day and night work capturing, swabbing, and processing amphibians, hiking in and out of sites, and deploying and checking pitfall traps and coverboards. Must have a valid drivers license and experience with 4WD and driving in rough terrain, be physically fit, and have experience identifying amphibian species. Proven record of field experience is required. Must be willing to travel in between the two locations and work with diverse field teams. When stationed in Linesville, PA, help with animal husbandry of amphibian colonies would be required during days not spent in the field. This position could extend from mid April to September if interested and available.
– Mesocosm and animal husbandry assistant: Mesocosm work involves maintaining and monitoring a large-scale mesocosm experiment, including taking measurements, checking water levels/quality, and removing metamorphosing animals and maintaining them in a field laboratory. This assistant will also likely help with field research at the PA site, and so field research experience is desirable. Will be located in Linesville, PA from May- August, and a valid drivers license is required.
Positions are paid hourly, and housing in Linesville, PA and near Fort Polk, LA is provided. Travel between Louisiana and Pennsylvania for the field assistant position is also provided.
To apply, please send a cover letter and CV and contact details for two references to Dr. Michel Ohmer (michel.ohmer@pitt.edu) and Dr. Laura Brannelly (laura.brannelly@pitt.edu) by March 15th, 2017. http://www.rzlab.pitt.edu
2) Smithsonian Bicoastal Science Communications Internship
Stipend: $500/week Time: 18 weeks (April-August 2017) Location: Edgewater, Md. and Tiburon, Calif. Application Deadline: February 10, 2017, 11:59 p.m. PST
Gain hands-on experience with environmental communication on both sides of America! The Smithsonian Environmental Research Center is seeking an intern to work for 18 weeks, from April through August, covering the work of SERC researchers in Maryland and California. The intern will start at SERC’s Chesapeake Bay headquarters in the spring, getting training in SERC science communications. In the summer, the intern will travel to San Francisco Bay to cover the work of SERC marine biologists in California for the remaining 10 weeks. Travel funds from Maryland to California are included.
Qualifications: Strong scientific background (natural sciences coursework; not required to be a science major) and skill writing about science for a nonscientific audience. Ability to use Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint) required; familiarity with photo editing software, WordPress and HTML a plus.
To apply, send a cover letter, resume with references (name, title and contact information) and unofficial transcript to ScienceWritingIntern@si.edu by 11:59 PST February 10, 2017. One to three published or unpublished writing samples explaining science for general readers are also essential to include with the application to be considered. For more information visit http://serc.si.edu
3) The John Marshall Everglades Internship
The Everglades Foundation is accepting applications for the John Marshall Everglades Internship. During this 8-week (May 18th – July 14th) undergraduate internship program, qualified students will learn about the Everglades ecosystem, history, water management issues, and policies related to Everglades restoration. Interns will go on site visits to: major restoration sites, water management structures, and effected natural areas. They will grow their professional networks while meeting with scientists, stakeholders, and policy makers who are participating in the most comprehensive restoration project in the world. Interns select from one of four categories for their capstone projects: policy & advocacy, science & engineering, education, and communications.
For more information about the program and how to apply, please see our website: http://www.evergladesfoundation.org/opportunities/internships/
4) REU opportunities studying the effects of the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill on Louisiana salt marshes and coastal environments
Two Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) positions are available at the Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium (LUMCON) for the summer of 2017. The REU students will design and conduct studies that contribute to the larger Coastal Waters Consortium (http://cwc.lumcon.edu) collaborative effort studying the effects of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill on Louisiana salt marshes and coastal environments. Over the past 5+ years CWC researchers have been studying the impacts of the spill at paired oiled-unoiled marshes across the southeastern Louisiana coast. The REU students will be expected to work with a team of researchers (under the supervision of Dr. Brian Roberts (http://robertsresearchlab.weebly.com/) and/or Dr. Nancy Rabalais) to develop studies which address aspects of the larger effort. We are particularly interested in students interested in conducting projects on wetland biogeochemistry and ecology, plant ecology, microbial ecology, sediment microalgae and/or subtidal benthos. The REU students will be involved in both the field and laboratory components of their project as well as a variety of related projects and experiments being conducted by other LUMCON and CWC researchers.
Candidates must be available for a ten week period beginning in early June 2017. We will provide a $500/week stipend, room and board at the Marine Center in Cocodrie, LA (http://www.lumcon.edu), and support for their research.
Applications should include: copy of unofficial transcripts, contact information for two academic references, CV/resume, and a one page statement that describes your interest in the REU position, academic goals, and any previous research experience. Applications should be sent to Dr. Brian Roberts at broberts@lumcon.edu with “2017 REU application” in the subject line by March 15th 2017.
5) Call for Applications: University of Wisconsin REU in Mathematical Ecology
The University of Wisconsin – La Crosse Department of Mathematics and Statistics is proud to offer a 10-week Summer REU in mathematical ecology, held in the beautiful city of La Crosse, Wisconsin. This summer program will provide eight summer scholars with the opportunity to perform cutting-edge research under the mentorship of university faculty and government scientists working at the interface between mathematics and ecology.
Our two projects are “Using Decision Models to Investigate Interventions Against Fungal Blight in American Chestnut Trees”, mentored by Martin Allen (Computer Science) and Anita Davelos Baines (Biology), and “Investigating Population Level Animal Movement Through Fractal Geometry”, mentored by Kevin Aagard (United State Geological Survey) and Robert F. Allen (Mathematics). You can find information on the projects and how to apply at uwlax.edu/mathematics/activities/reu/
Program Dates: June 5, 2017 – August 11, 2017 Stipend: $5000 and a $75 weekly food allowance. Priority Deadline: February 1 th Application Deadline: March 1st
6) NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) summer position- Minnesota
Ruth Shaw’s Research Group in the Dept. of Ecology, Evolution & Behavior at the University of Minnesota is seeking applicants for an NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) position in summer 2017 to study the process of ongoing adaptation in experimental populations of partridge pea (Chamaecrista fasciculata) in prairie habitat. The student will work closely with Dr. Ruth Shaw and Dr. Mason Kulbaba to develop an independent project in the area of plant evolutionary genetics, with possibilities ranging from studies of heritability and phenotypic selection on plant traits to studies of pollination ecology and phenology. The student will gain invaluable experience in performing field work and in conducting an independent research project, from hypothesis formulation through oral and written dissemination of results, as grounding for future work in inquiry-based scientific research.
The student must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and enrolled as an undergraduate for Fall 2017. The ideal candidate should enjoy working outdoors and have an interest in learning about the evolution and ecology of plants in the Midwest prairies, and candidates planning to pursue a graduate career in evolution, ecology, or conservation biology are particularly well-suited for this position. The REU intern will receive a stipend of $5,000 and room and board in the Twin Cities (with occasional overnight travel to field sites). Costs of travel to and from the Twin Cities will also be provided. The deadline to apply for this position is March 10, 2017, and the 10-week internship is expected to begin on Monday, June 5 and end on Friday, August 11.
To apply, please e-mail the following application materials to Mason Kulbaba (mkulbaba@umn.edu) with the subject line “REU” no later than March 10, 2017: 1. a statement explaining the following: • why you are interested in this position • what are your future plans • dates you are available to start and end this position • confirm eligibility for the REU program • the name and contact information of the person who will serve as your reference • your e-mail address and phone number 2. resume 3. transcript (unofficial is acceptable) 4. 1 letter of recommendation (sent by your reference)
7) Gray Vireo REU Positions at Sevilleta NWR, NM
The Sevilleta Field Station is seeking applicants for Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU). Application deadline is February 24, 2017. We are looking for 10 Biology REU students for the Summer of 2017. This interdisciplinary REU Site Program at the Sevilleta Field Station in central New Mexico will train undergraduate students who will conduct independent research under the guidance of UNM faculty in Biology, Ecology, Civil Engineering, and Earth and Planetary Sciences, along with scientists from Federal and State agencies. The summer program includes a seminar series, a weekly journal club, an annual symposium, professional development workshops, toastmasters, ethics training, field trips, and opportunities to interact with a multitude of scientists conducting research in the area. Students will conduct independent research in and around the Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge (SNWR) and present their projects at the annual symposium to be held in early August 2017. Working at the Sevilleta Field Station and SNWR site invites close interactions among students, faculty, federal scientists, and graduate students.
Students will have numerous opportunities to share ideas and explore issues within and across disciplines. The program’s goal is to increase exposure to a large, multidisciplinary research program, inspire students to continue into professional careers, and prepare students for the rigors of graduate school, professional research, and responsible citizenship. The program exemplifies the integration of research and education. As students conduct research, they will learn how to be an independent scientist, along with many technical, methodological and ethical issues that arise in scientific research.
Lodging and laboratory space for REU students will be provided by the UNM Sevilleta Field Station at NO COST to the student. In addition, candidates chosen will receive a stipend of $5500 and a $500 food allowance during the 10-week summer program that will run from May 29 – August 4. We will also refund travel costs to and from the UNM Sevilleta Field Station up to $600 (stipulations apply). See https://sevilletareu.wordpress.com/ for more information.
8) Internship: Population Biology Intern at Lincoln Park Zoo
The Conservation and Science Department at Lincoln Park Zoo is seeking a population biology intern for summer 2017. The intern position is a full-time 12 week paid position which would involve entering individual animal and population data and conducting preliminary analyses in support of Population Management Center (PMC) and Alexander Center work. This position provides a great opportunity to learn about the science of population biology and the management of zoo and aquarium populations from nationally recognized experts.
The PMC is the only center of its kind providing scientific advice and logistical assistance to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) cooperatively managed animal populations. The goal of the PMC is to help maintain healthy zoo populations, which is accomplished by: 1) assisting zoo professionals in validating and standardizing their “studbooks” (databases which record the histories and pedigrees of individual animals of a particular species) 2) conducting analyses to assess the demographic and genetic status of populations and 3) collaborating to produce breeding and transfer recommendations for every animal held at each zoo or aquarium participating in the managed population.
JOB FUNCTIONS • Data extraction from zoo population databases & management plan reports; • Data entry; • Analyses of data from zoo populations; • Attend Lincoln Park Zoo, Population Management Center, and Alexander Center-related activities as necessary; • Other research and administrative duties as assigned by PMC/AC staff.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: • Working knowledge of PCs, using word processing, spread sheet and database software • Highly motivated, good problem solver, and detailed-oriented • Ability to clearly communicate verbally and in writing • Ability to read and understand written and oral instructions • Ability to organize tasks to ensure timely completion of all project • Ability to learn new software packages relatively quickly • Ability to work at computer for 6-7 hours per day • Database and records are confidential; discretion and ability to maintain confidences are essential • Ability to represent the Lincoln Park Zoo in a professional manner at all times • Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, zoo visitors and general public
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS • B.S. or B.A. (in progress or completed) in biological sciences or related discipline. Candidates with a background in statistics, mathematics, or computer programming will also be considered • Interest in population biology, genetics, demography, & conservation • Experience with Microsoft Excel and Word required • Experience in a research setting, as a research or project assistant is desirable • Familiarity with zoo population management or specialized population management software such as PopLink, SPARKS, PM2000, PMx, ZooRisk, VORTEX, or PMCTrack is desirable but not essential
LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Gain knowledge of the foundational concepts in population biology and genetics, and how they can be applied to the management of zoo and aquarium populations and other intensively managed populations • Learn about and assist with the process of producing breeding and transfer plans • Gain knowledge of and experience with demographic and genetic analyses and the relevant software used for population management
Please submit a resume, brief cover letter highlighting your relevant experience, interests and career goals, and college transcripts (unofficial are fine) to Human Resources Department Lincoln Park Zoo, P.O. Box 14903 Chicago, IL 60614 or submit as attachments by email to hrjobs@lpzoo.org.
9) Summer Undergrad Internship in Ecology and Land Management in Westchester County, NY
Mianus River Gorge, a conservation organization and 850-acre nature preserve in Westchester County, New York, offers four 8-week summer internships for college students interested in the conservation of natural areas in urbanizing landscapes.
–Internships last for a period of 8 weeks. This year the internship will run from Jun 9 – Aug 4. Longer internships may be available upon request. — We generally must give preference to local students or those that can commute, as summer housing is not always guaranteed. — Each intern will work alongside Gorge staff and graduate students on a variety of projects including wildlife monitoring, non-native species management, and GIS applications. The internship is a mix of performing research and enacting management plans. — Interns will work with and supervise high school students in our authentic research program (Wildlife Technician Program). — We work with our interns to provide a learning experience that fits their interests and long-term educational goals. — Stipend: $125/week (5 days a week) or combination of school credit and stipend (depending on university requirements).
Projects for 2017 include: o Monitoring coyotes and other wildlife in NYC and Nassau County o Vegetation sampling, monitoring, and restoration o Wetland functional assessment throughout our watershed o Invasive species control and other land management work o Data management and analysis on several long-term projects
Additional info: http://www.mianus.org/what-we-do/research-and- education/undergraduate/internships-in-suburban-ecology/