Summer Jobs and Internships | Undergraduate Programs | Short Courses

Summer Jobs and Internships:

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Alabama A&M University: National Science Foundation sponsored Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program from June 1 – July 24, 2009. REU students will be mentored by graduate students and faculty and work on research in areas of forestry and plant sciences, insects and wildlife ecology, molecular biology and genetics, soil mineralogy and biogeochemistry, hydrology and environmental monitoring, landscape ecology, and human interactions. Responsibilities may include field sampling/site visits, data analysis, and scientific writing. Students will attend seminars and workshops on research and career planning. At the end of the program, participants will prepare a final report, a poster, and present their research at a research symposium. Students will receive a $4000 stipend, dining card, and be housed in dormitories on the AAMU campus. Minorities and underrepresented groups within the science fields are encouraged to apply. For more information of the summer 2009 research projects, available mentors, application form, and application process; please visit http://saes.aamu.edu/Forestry/reu/home.html or contact Dr. Elica Moss at elica.moss@aamu.edu, Ph: 256-372-8219. Deadline: March 6, 2009. Posted: 2/16/09.

Arizona State University: We are seeking a qualified undergraduate to participate in a Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) opportunity, funded by the National Science Foundation, to study coloration and sexual signaling in birds. The research experience will involve up to 10 weeks of full-time work during the summer of 2009 (approx. June-August) at Arizona State. The REU student will work closely with Professor Kevin McGraw and Dr. Melissah Rowe (post-doctoral associate) on this project. The program includes a weekly stipend, and some travel funds will be available to help defray the cost of traveling to Tempe, Arizona. The research project will involve working with captive populations of two species of waterfowl – mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) and northern pintail (Anas acuta). The student will gain hands-on experience working with birds and will utilize a suite of biochemical, immunological, nutritional, and color-analysis techniques in the lab. In addition, the student will be involved in data entry, analysis, and interpretation. The student is also strongly encouraged to develop an independent research project throughout the summer. We seek students with strong credentials, a general background in biology and chemistry, and an interest in ecological, evolutionary, physiological and/or immunological research. Preference will be given to students planning to attend graduate school in animal behavior or a related field. Women and ethic minority students are especially encouraged to apply. Interested students should submit the following application materials electronically (as attachments, preferably in a single PDF) to Melissah Rowe (melissah.rowe@asu.edu): i) Curriculum Vitae, ii) grades (unofficial transcripts are fine) and a list of relevant courses, iii) names and contact details for three references iv) a cover letter that describes any previous research and a brief statement explaining your interest in obtaining research experience in animal behavior. Posted: 2/18/09.

Bodega Marine Laboratory: we are seeking motivated undergraduate students interested in marine science careers to participate in a Summer Research-Experience-for-Undergraduate Program, supported by the National Science Foundation. Over eight weeks (June 21 -Aug 15, 2009), students will develop confidence and independence in doing research and communicating science. Faculty and other mentors will provide one-on-one research training, from choosing a topic to writing a paper, in a friendly supportive environment. The program includes a unit on scientific ethics as an essential element of a science career path. Participants will receive a stipend ($3600) plus all laboratory housing and meals and travel costs. Bodega Marine Laboratory is situated on a biologically rich stretch of the California coast north of San Francisco and is a part of the University of California at Davis. BML welcomes a diverse and interactive community of visiting students and scientists each summer. REU students can choose from a variety of study organisms, habitats both marine and coastal terrestrial, and diverse areas of study, for example; coastal oceanography, invasive species ecology, pollution effects on marine life, and biodiversity. All specialized research facilities are available to students who require them. Students will also develop essential career survival skills, including scientific ethics and communications. A goal of the program is to increase the success of underrepresented minorities in marine science. We encourage underrepresented undergraduate students to apply. Contact the Program Assistant (bml-reuucdavis.edu) with any questions. Animamos aplicaciónes de estudiantes Latinas/Latinos en especial. Additional details and application materials. Deadline: February 15, 2009. Posted: 11/20/08.

Bradley University: REU Program in Integrated Ecology. The Biology Department is recruiting six undergraduate students to participate in a 10-week intensive summer research experience in integrated ecology. From June 8 - August 14, 2009, participants will work in collaborative research teams and will gain experience in molecular, physiological, organismal, community and ecosystem approaches to address real environmental problems along the Illinois River Corridor. Previous research has included forest and wetland ecology, invasive species, river ecosystem health, and the effects of land-use change on soil and plants. Participants will receive training in techniques necessary to carry out their research, as well as engage in weekly talks about broader scientific topics and ethical practices. Projects will culminate in a final report and presentation of results at an end-of-summer scientific colloquium. Students will receive a $3,500 fellowship stipend, $1,000 food stipend, free on-campus housing, and travel funds. The program is funded through the National Science Foundation's Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program. We especially encourage applications from underrepresented minorities and from students from 2-year institutions. All participants must be U.S. Citizens or permanent residents, and must be planning to enroll as an undergraduate in an accredited college or university in the fall of 2009. Applications will be reviewed beginning March 2. Successful applicants will be notified on or before April 3. Applications and more information. Questions may be directed to Dustin Hermann at dherrmann@bradley.edu. Posted: 2/4/09.

Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies: Ecology in Context Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program. Ten undergraduate students will join the Cary Institute research community in 2009 to: * Complete a research project of their own design. * Be a part of an exciting research community. * Work closely with leading ecologists. * Exchange ideas with a diverse group of students, scientists and educators. * Have access to state of the art facilities. * Explore ecology career options and rewards. * See how ecological research has an impact on our society. The program emphasizes the community nature of the scientific enterprise, fosters reflection and builds self confidence and skills. To complement their mentored research, students have many chances to interact, give and receive feedback and support, and participate in a rich assortment of enrichment activities, workshops and field trips. Dates: May 26 to August 14, 2009 (12 weeks). Eligibility: Undergraduate freshmen, sophomores, juniors or first semester seniors. Must be citizens or permanent residents of the U.S. or its possessions. Stipend: $5,100 stipend, plus $600 allowance for food and free housing in Bacon Flats Lodge. Some assistance is available for travel to and from the program as well. For details on projects for 2009 or to apply, visit: www.ecostudies.org/reu.html. Online application only. Applications must be submitted by February 1, 2009. Posted: 11/3/08.

Chicago Botanic Garden: Summer field research experience for undergrads and recent graduates. Are you interested in gaining field research experience and learning about the ecology and evolution of plants and plant-animal interactions in fragmented prairie? We are looking for 3-5 summer field researchers for an NSF-funded project on habitat fragmentation of the tallgrass prairie. We are investigating how small plant population size influences inbreeding, demography, pollination, and herbivory in the purple coneflower, Echinacea angustifolia. This is a great summer internship or co-op for those interested in field biology or conservation research. No experience is necessary, but you must be enthusiastic and hard-working. You will survey natural plant populations, measure plant traits in experimental plots, hand-pollinate plants, observe & collect insects, and assist in all aspects of research. Housing is provided and there is a stipend. Undergraduate students have the opportunity to do an independent project as an REU participant. If you want more information or wish to apply, please visit http://echinacea.umn.edu/ or contact Stuart Wagenius (stuart09@echinaceaproject.org, 847 835 6978). Applications due 6 March 2009. Posted: 1/28/09.

Chicago Botanic Garden/Northwestern University: We are pleased to invited applications from undergraduate students to participate in a summer Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program in plant conservation and biology, supported by NSF. Eight undergraduate students will work closely with faculty from the Chicago Botanic Garden and Northwestern University to complete a research project, and then present the results of their study in a symposium at the end of the program. Students can choose from a diversity of projects and study areas including: aquatics, molecular and quantitative genetics, pollination biology, biogeochemistry, and restoration ecology. Details on the 2009 summer projects. Our program emphasizes the collaborative nature of scientific research, scientific ethics, and career survival, and builds confidence in lab, field, and communication skills. The program will run from May 25 to August 2, 2009 (10 weeks). Eligibility: Undergraduate freshmen, sophomores, juniors or first semester seniors are welcome to apply. We encourage applications from students in under-represented groups. Please note that you must be a citizen or permanent resident of the U.S. or its possessions. Participants will each receive a stipend ($4,160) plus housing and subsistence, assistance with travel to and from Chicago, and lab and field supplies. We accept both postal mail and email applications, however, applications must be received by March 6, 2009. For more information, contact Dr. Nyree Zerega (nzerega@chicagobotanic.org) or Dr. Louise Egerton-Warburton (lwarburton@chicagobotanic.org). Posted: 1/20/09.

Florida State University: Full-time summer Research Experience for Undergraduate (REU) opportunity studying plant-herbivore interactions and population dynamics in an agricultural weed. Research involves a combination of greenhouse/lab and field experiments in the vicinity of Florida State University in Tallahassee. Possible topics for REU projects include (but are not limited to) plant or insect responses to density, plant resistance or tolerance to herbivory, and plant demography. Research will occur May-September. Dates somewhat flexible, but experience involves at least 10 weeks of full time (40-45 hours/week) work. Generous stipend plus allowance for travel and housing expenses. Research is a collaboration between Stacey Halpern (Pacific University), Nora Underwood (Florida State University), and Brian Inouye (Florida State University). Application due Feb 15. Please see full ad at Nora Underwood's website for additional information. Posted: 1/8/09.

Fordham University: The Louis Calder Center - Biological Field Station of Fordham University has a select number of paid research opportunities for undergraduate students in our Calder Summer Undergraduate Research (CSUR) program. The CSUR program will run from May 25th through August 15th, 2009. - Students will work out of our field station, which is equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories, which are in close proximity to forest, field and aquatic ecosystems. - Some student projects will include collaborations with scientists at the Wildlife Conservation Society and the New York Botanical Garden. - This year we will offer approximately ten awards to qualified undergraduates interested in conducting independent research. - Stipends of $4,800 plus a travel reimbursement will be awarded to successful applicants, and rent at the field station is free. - Limited funds are available to support research and local travel. A sample of some of the potential student projects for 2006 includes: - Acoustic and Visual Enrichment for Chilean Flamingoes - Algal biodiversity in streams along an urban-to-rural land-use gradient - Biological control of arthropods that transmit disease - Bloom-forming cyanobacteria in lakes of Central Park, New York - Climate change and gene flow in an annual plant - Hoot Song Function in the Stripe-throated Wren - Impact of an invasive species on local mosquito species - The evolution of transposable elements in bacterial pathogens - The cascading effects of an invasive plant - The food web of temporary forest ponds - Urbanization and habitat fragmentation influences on dynamics of wildlife disease - Urbanization effects on plants, their symbionts, and ecosystem processes Successful candidates will be matched with scientists with similar research interests. Core program activities include the design and execution of independent, closely mentored research projects, and participation in mini-courses and weekly seminars. Through these activities, students will learn the fundamentals of experimental design, use of the scientific literature, data collection and analysis, and oral presentation. - For details on the program and a list of research areas available this summer for students, see: www.fordham.edu/REUatCalder. - You can also contact us by email at: REUatCalder@fordham.edu, or by phone: 914-273-3078, ext. 10. Applications are due February 15. Posted: 12/11/08.

Georgia Tech: We will be hosting 9 undergraduate participants this summer for our NSF-REU program in Aquatic Chemical Ecology . We would like to ask for your help in publicizing this program to undergraduates that you know. We would be very grateful if you forwarded this information to individual students who might be interested. Our research theme of Aquatic Chemical Ecology is broadly defined. We have 3 core areas of research for students to choose from: Biological and geochemical transformations of chemicals in aquatic ecosystems; Sensory biology and ecology of aquatic chemical communication; Ecological roles and consequences of chemicals in aquatic environments. This program is an excellent choice for undergraduates majoring in any field of biology, chemistry, earth/ocean science, civil engineering, environmental engineering, chemical engineering, and related bioengineering areas who want to apply their classroom learning to an interdisciplinary research environment to solve complex scientific problems and learn about the importance of chemically-mediated processes. See our program website linked above for more details and to apply. The application deadline is February 18th 2009. The full-time, 10-week program will start in late May and run through July. Participants will receive a stipend of $4500 plus accommodations with kitchen facilities in university housing, and help with travel expenses to and from Atlanta. There will also be a field trip and numerous social activities. Any U.S. citizen or permanent resident who is currently enrolled in an undergraduate degree program is eligible, unless they have already been part of an NSF-REU program in Ocean Sciences or unless they will graduate before this summer. We are particularly interested in recruiting minority students and those who come from non-PhD granting institutions. Posted: 2/3/09.

Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center: Undergraduate Fellowships: Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services from Bioenergy Cropping Systems. Six positions for Summer 2009. These summer fellowships will give you an opportunity to conduct full-time research under the supervision of faculty. In addition to working with a mentor on an individual research project, students participate in weekly discussions focusing on environmental, ecological, and economic implications of alternative biofuel practices. Compensation: $3700 stipend, plus free room and board; $450 to cover travel. Application Deadline: March 2nd, 2009. Full details of research project topics and application forms. Posted: 2/4/09.

Harvard University: Harvard Forest offers an exciting program for up to 30 undergraduate students from institutions across the country to collaborate with scientists conducting ecological research for 12 weeks during the summer of 2009. Program Description: Each student will participate in an on‑going study with senior researchers from Harvard University, Marine Biological Lab-Ecosystems Center, University of New Hampshire, University of Massachusetts and other collaborators. Responsibilities generally include field and laboratory studies, data analysis and scientific writing. In addition, students attend weekly seminars given by nationally known scientists about their research and workshops on ethics and career and graduate school planning. At the end of the summer, students will develop their research results and present their findings at a student research symposium. Research Projects: Harvard Forest research focuses on the dynamics of forest ecosystems and their response to natural and human disturbances. Researchers come from many disciplines and specific projects center on population and community ecology, paleoecology, land-use history, aquatic ecology, biogeochemistry, ecophysiology, and atmosphere-biosphere exchanges. Projects in summer 2009 will focus on: Invasive Plants, Pests & Pathogens; Plant Biology, Population and Community Ecology; Large Ecosystem Experiments and Permanent Plot Studies; Conservation Biology and Biodiversity; Forest Ecosystem Response to Global Change; Soil Carbon and Nitrogen Dynamics; Reading and Conserving the New England Landscape. Compensation: Students are paid a stipend of $5400 for the 12‑week session which runs from May 26 through August 14, 2009. Excellent on-site housing and a full meal plan are included as part of the program. Assistance with travel costs to and from Harvard Forest is also provided. Who Should Apply: We seek a diverse group of students from a variety of undergraduate programs across the country. Students should have a demonstrated interest in ecology but are not required to have previous field/lab experience and there is no minimum GPA required. We accept students from all class years, and are particularly interested in recruiting students from community colleges, small teaching schools as well as larger research institutions. To Apply: Visit the Harvard Forest REU site for our on-line application. Applications are due February 6, 2009. Posted: 12/30/08.

Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary: one position open for an undergraduate intern to help with an on-going study of mud turtle (Kinosternum subrubrum) ecology and habitat use. Mud turtles are small, omnivorous turtles that divide their time between aquatic and terrestrial habitats. The objectives of our study are to determine how adult male and female turtles differ in their use of habitat space. We track turtles using radio telemetry and GPS devices in freshwater tidal wetlands on the Patuxent River estuary in central Maryland. The Jug Bay Sanctuary is a 1,500 acre ecological field station and environmental education center in southern Anne Arundel County, Maryland. The Sanctuary is operated by the county parks department and is a member of the Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Applicants should enjoy fieldwork and should be able to tolerate long hours in the field under hot, wet and muddy conditions. It helps to have a high degree of self-motivation. In addition to helping with turtle studies, the intern also helps with bird banding, reptile surveys, a BioBlitz, fish seining, and water quality studies. The intern will carry out an independent research project on some aspect of mud turtle ecology. At the end of the season in August, the intern gives an oral presentation and turns in a written report on their independent project. Interns work under the supervision of Sanctuary Director Chris Swarth. The Friends of Jug Bay, Anne Arundel County, and the Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve provide the funding for this project. Qualifications: Applicant must be a life science major at the junior or senior level (recent graduates are okay). Previous ecological field research is a plus. Work schedule: May 1 to August 15. An earlier state date will also work. Interns work 5 days/week. Occasional weekend work and evening work is required. Interns will need to find their own housing. The Sanctuary is 18 miles south of Annapolis and 15 miles east of Washington, DC. Stipend Award: $3,600. Application Procedure: Please send a cover letter with statement of goals and explaining why you want the position; resume detailing education and work experience; transcripts (need not be "official"); and the names and email addresses of 3 references. Send application materials to: Chris Swarth, Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary, 1361 Wrighton. Rd., Lothian, MD 20711, or by email to cswarth@jugbay.org. Deadline: Application materials must be received by March 20. Posted: 2/16/09.

Loyola University New Orleans: A NSF-funded summer research experience for undergraduates (REU) position is available to a qualified student interested in conducting research in ecosystem ecology. The student will be based at Loyola University New Orleans and will conduct independent research in support of a collaborative research project between investigators from Loyola, the University of Arizona, New Mexico State University and the University of Kentucky examining interactive effects of solar UV and soil erosion on litter decomposition and biogeochemistry in desert shrublands. Qualifications: Undergraduate majoring in Biology, Botany, Rangeland Ecology or related field. Prior coursework in ecology is required and familiarity with computers, statistics and data processing is essential. Requirements: Individuals will be expected to, 1) conduct independent research that supports the overall research project; 2) work with other students and researchers in a collaborative research situation, and 3) prepare and submit a final written report of their research. Support: 3 months (May 15 – August 15, 2009; dates negotiable) of summer support ($1920/month), plus additional funds to cover living expenses in New Orleans and travel to the Arizona field site. Application: Interested students should submit a letter of application, a brief resume, copies of transcripts, and names and addresses of two references to: Dr. Paul W. Barnes, Department of Biological Sciences, Loyola University New Orleans, New Orleans, LA 70118; Phone: 504.865.2008; Email: pwbarnes@loyno.edu. Deadline for application is April 10, 2009. Posted: 3/11/09.

Marine Biological Laboratory: The Ecosystems Center is seeking undergraduate applicants for an Arctic research project. The successful candidate will participate in field research on fish and aquatic ecosystems in the Toolik Lake Research Natural Area on the North Slope of Alaska. Research Experience for Undergraduate (REU) positions are available only to U.S. citizens or Permanent Residents who are currently enrolled and will still be enrolled after the REU as undergraduates at U.S. colleges or universities (no graduating seniors). Activities include PIT tagging fish, measuring the length and weight of fish, maintaining weirs and PIT tag antennas in the river, sampling physical parameters in streams, collection and analysis of water samples and benthic invertebrate samples. In addition to gaining experience by working on a variety of project activities, REU students develop a project that is linked to larger studies of streams. REU participants are expected to collect and analyze data and to give a scientific talk describing their project near the end of the field season. Candidates for the position should be available to live at Toolik Field Station for 8-10 weeks during June, July and August. Applicants need to be able to stay until late August. Travel to Toolik Field Station and room and board at the station is paid for by grant funds. Basic Qualifications: Applicants should have completed basic coursework in biology, chemistry and ideally ecology or ecosystem studies. Attention to detail, enthusiasm for fieldwork, and a desire to learn new laboratory and field techniques are essential. Preferred Qualifications: Coursework in fish biology, animal population biology and ecology, flyfishing or fishing expertise, and experience working outdoors under rigorous and potentially buggy and cold conditions. Physical Requirements: Applicants should be in good health, capable of rigorous outdoor activity, and prepared to live in a field camp where cooperation with others is essential, personal privacy is limited, and living accommodations are spare and simple. Special Instructions to Applicants: Unofficial transcripts are required documents, but may be uploaded with your application packet or faxed to the Human Resources Office, 508-289-7931. If faxing, please reference both the posting number and position title. Apply online at mbl.simplehire.com. Posted: 4/7/09.

Marine Biological Laboratory: The Ecosystems Center is seeking undergraduate applicants for several Arctic research projects. Successful candidates will participate in field research on either terrestrial or aquatic ecosystems in the Toolik LakeResearch Natural Area on the North Slope of Alaska. The Research Experience for Undergraduate (REU) positions are available to U.S. citizens or Permanent Residents only who are currently enrolled as undergraduates at U.S. colleges or universities (no graduating seniors). In addition to gaining experience by assisting on a variety of project activities, REU students typically assume an independent project that is linked to larger studies of lakes, streams, tundra or land-water interactions. REU participants are expected to collect and analyze data and to produce a poster describing their project near the end of the field season. We anticipate funding for support of two to four REU positions during the 2008 field season. Candidates for these jobs should be available to live at Toolik Field Station for 8-10 weeks during June, July and August. Travel to Toolik Field Station is paid for by grant funds as well as the cost of room and board at the station. Qualifications: Applicants should have completed basic coursework in biology, chemistry and ideally ecology or ecosystem studies. Attention to detail and a desire to learn new laboratory and field techniques are essential. Applicants should be in good health, capable of rigorous outdoor activity, and prepared to live in a field camp where cooperation with others is essential, personal privacy is limited, and living accommodations are spare and simple. Required Applicant Documents: Resume/CV, Cover Letter. Unofficial transcripts are required, but may be uploaded with your application or faxed to the Human Resources Office at 508-457-1548. If faxing, please reference this posting. Apply online at mbl.simplehire.com. Posted: 2/16/09.

Michigan State University: Field, Experimental and Theoretical Aquatic Ecology. We (Elena Litchman and Chris Klausmeier) have NSF funding for two Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) positions this summer at the Kellogg Biological Station. Projects in our lab are on the topics of: 1) seasonal succession in plankton communities and 2) the vertical distribution of phytoplankton. Both projects can include a mix of field, lab, and theoretical (mathematical modeling) research. For example, students could participate in lab experiments with plankton towers to investigate coexistence of multiple phytoplankton species along a depth gradient, run pairwise competition experiments with freshwater phytoplankton in periodically-forced semi-continuous cultures to test model predictions,and participate in sampling local lakes to investigate the vertical distribution of phytoplankton and harmful algal bloom dynamics. In addition to participating in the research projects of faculty, REU students at KBS get involved in many educational and social activities taking place at KBS in the summer. At the end of the summer, the student will present the results of his/her independent project in the station’s Undergraduate Research Symposium, and also prepare a short report. The work will also be considered for inclusion for publication. Applicants must be US Citizens in good academic standing at an undergraduate level. Two positions are available. Travel, room, and board will be covered, as well as a $3800 stipend. For more info: REU. To apply, fill out the application pdf | doc and send it to Gwen Pearson (pearso78@msu.edu) and Chris Klausmeier (klausme1@msu.edu) by April 6, 2009. Feel free to email if you have any questions. Posted: 3/25/09.

Michigan State University: We just added 5 additional Research Experiences for Undergraduates for Summer 2009. These programs let you get first hand research experience! Applications are considered in the order they are received, so early application is encouraged! http://www.kbs.msu.edu/reu/ Quantitative Environmental and Integrative Biology: Two REU positions are available for projects on modeling the dynamics of competition in aquatic systems. Wetland Biogeochemistry: One REU position is available to join an NSF study investigating how wetland sediments release or retain phosphorus. Ecological Genetics: Two REU positions are available for projects on the ecology and evolutionary genetics of flowering plants. Posted: 3/9/09.

National Park Service: The Klamath Network invites resumes from enrolled undergraduate or graduate botany students wishing to assist with invasive plant monitoring between July 1 and Sept. 15 2009. The Klamath Network includes some of the West's most scenic parks, including Crater Lake National Park, Lassen Volcanic National Park,Redwood National Park, Oregon Caves National Monument Lava Beds National Monument, and Whiskeytown National Recreation Area. We seek enthusiastic students with basic taxonomic training and experience with identification of common weeds of the western United States to assist with implementing an invasive species early detection protocol. The data collected will directly support park management goals, and increase our knowledge of the spatial distribution and dynamics of invasive plant species in our parks. Positions will be hired through the Student Temporary Employment (STEP) Authority and duty stationed at the Klamath Network office in Ashland, Oregon. We anticipate that most positions will be filled at the GS-04 or GS-05 level, though more experienced applicants are also encouraged to contact us. The botanists will conduct fieldwork in residence at each of the network parks through the summer, and be lodged in park housing or designated campsites. Transportation to field sites, camping, and per diem will be provided. Fieldwork will occur in varied weather and terrain, with up to ten miles of hiking a day expected. These positions are open until filled, so please apply promptly. Contact Daniel Sarr (541) 552-8575 (SarrD@sou.edu) for more information. Posted: 6/9/09.

National Park Service: The Rocky Mountain Inventory & Monitoring Network is looking for 2-3 field biological technicians to help out with vegetation, soil, and stream monitoring in 6 Colorado and Montana National Parks this summer. Only current undergraduate and graduate students are eligible. The job will be based out of Fort Collins,CO but most of the summer will be spent traveling and working outdoors. This is an awesome opportunity to spend some time in the national parks and gain federal job experience! We prefer students with some botanical training and experience in plant or stream ecology. Salary is based on experience and education (GS-4 or GS-5 level,$14.12 - $15.80/hr). In addition to salary, technicians will be compensated for travel (~$20/day). Please see our website and click on "Seasonal Jobs" for more information about the job and application procedure. Applicants should submit electronic copies of their resume, one or two reference letters (letters may be sent directly), current transcripts and proof of enrollment to Donna Shorrock at donna_shorrock@nps.gov by March 6, 2009. Please email or call Donna at 970-225-3583 if you have any questions. Posted: 1/15/09.

New Mexico State University: A NSF-funded summer Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) position is available for ecosystem ecology research. The student will conduct independent research examining interactive effects of UV and soil erosion on leaf litter decomposition and biogeochemistry in desert shrublands. This work will be part of a collaborative research project between investigators from NMSU, University of Arizona, Loyola Univeristy - New Orleans, and University of Kentucky. More information on the project is available at: www.snr.arizona.edu/project/decomposition. Qualifications: Undergraduate majoring in Biology, Ecology, Botany, Rangeland Ecology, or a related field. Prior coursework in ecology is required and familiarity with field and/or laboratory research preferred. As per NSF guidelines, eligible students are limited to US citizens or permanent residents. Requirements: Individuals will be expected to, 1) conduct independent research that supports the overall goals of the research project; 2) work with other students and researchers in a collaborative research situation; and 3) prepare and submit a written report on the research. Support: 3 months of summer support ($1600/month; dates negotiable), plus additional funds to cover living expenses in Las Cruces, NM. Application: Interested students should submit via email to throop@nmsu.edu: - Cover letter describing prior research experience and career goals - CV - Copies of undergraduate transcripts - Names and email addresses of two references. For more information, please contact: Dr. Heather Throop, Biology Department, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM 88003. 575-646-5970, throop@nmsu.edu. Review of applications will begin on May 1. Posted: 4/27/09.

Pennsylvania State University: A REU (Research Experience for Undergraduates) opportunity is available with David Eissenstat's Lab. To apply, email the following to Dr. Eissenstat (contact info. below): resume, grades/coursework (unofficial transcript acceptable), your reasons for being interested in our research opportunity, and the name and contact information for two people willing to serve as a reference. Please note in your email if you are a SEEDS student. The REU project will involve work to broadly examine the controls and constraints of root lifespan and how tree species vary in this regard associated with my funded project: The Ecology of Root Lifespan of Temperate Trees. Specifically, the work could involve the relationship between root branching order and root longevity, root defense compounds and root longevity, mycorrhizal colonization and root longevity, or nitrogen availability and root longevity depending on the chosen applicants interests. Contact: Dr. David Eissenstat, dme9@psu.edu, 814-863-3371. Posted: 4/27/09.

Pennsylvania State University: We are looking for several summer undergraduate researchers as assistants and for independent research projects. These are full time summer jobs that pay competitive wages plus (in some cases) room and board. The projects focus on nutrient pollution and carbon cycling in a range of forest, agricultural, and urban ecosystems. Opportunities exist in both science (hands on research) and education (developing teaching tools). More specific descriptions and contact information are available at: http://kayelab.psu.edu/ugradopp.cfm. Application deadline: April 7, 2009. Posted: 3/25/09.

Plymouth State University: A Summer Research Experience at Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest: Investigating and Communicating Change in Ecosystems. Ten undergraduates will live and work at the Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest in the White Mountains of New Hampshire for a 10-week program emphasizing both research and public outreach on topics concerning Northern Hardwood Forest ecosystems. Research and Outreach areas include: • Animal ecology; • Biogeochemistry; • Hydrology and soils; • Forest vegetation and carbon dynamics. Program Dates: 2 June–11 August, 2009. Application deadline: 6 February, 2009. For more information and to apply, visit: www.hubbardbrookreu.org. For more information, contact: Geoff Wilson (603-726-8911, gwilson@hbresearchfoundation.org). Posted: 12/8/08.

Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory: 18 Advanced Undergraduate Research positions, summer, 2009. This program targets rising seniors or students who have graduated. Students conduct independent research under the supervision of RMBL scientists. Potential topics include pollination, climate change, mutualisms, animal behavior and more. Research statements written by mentors are available on our website (see below). Students have the option of turning their research into a senior thesis at their home institution; the RMBL Science Director (sd at rmbl.org) can help coordinate between RMBL and the home institution. The Advanced Undergraduate Research Program is 10 weeks long (June 7 to August 15), though start and end dates are flexible. Students should have a sincere interest in a career in field biology research. Fieldwork is difficult, and often tedious. We are looking for students with the mental and intellectual maturity to commit to hard work. The application process is competitive. The cost of the program is $4250. Some students will pay the $4250 fee, some will receive partial or full scholarships from the RMBL and/or their home institution, and the remaining students will be funded from our National Science Foundation REU grant. Students receiving a Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) award receive a $4,500 stipend, free room, board and travel. Deadline: February 15, 2009 for REU Awards, April 1, 2009 for RMBL Financial Support. More information: www.rmbl.org/education. Posted: 1/20/09.

Sam Houston State University: The Department of Biological Sciences is currently accepting applications from qualified undergraduate students interested in participating in a Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program funded by the National Science Foundation. Our REU program focuses on biological research centered around field experiences. This summer (May 26-Aug. 1), we will be accepting 8 undergraduates in the program for a fun and rewarding experience in conducting an independent research project at our 247-acre field station (Center for Biological Field Studies, CBFS), Sam Houston State University. There are several project mentors available and their research programs can be reviewed at http://www.shsu.edu/reu with information needed to apply to the program. Deadline: 2 March 2009. Posted: 2/17/09.

San Diego Zoo: The Applied Plant Ecology division of San Diego Zoo’s Conservation Research center has two fellowship positions available for summer 2009. Applied Plant Ecology focuses on conservation, sustainable management and restoration of ecosystems worldwide. Students will have the opportunity to conduct independent research projects while participating in many of the division’s other projects and activities. One fellow will focus on seed ecology and conservation as part of our Millennium Seed Bank project, which collects, conserves, and studies the seed biology of San Diego County native plants. The county is a biodiversity hotspot with an incredibly diverse native flora, making seed conservation and research critically important. The second fellow will focus on post-fire coastal sage scrub and cactus scrub restoration research in the 900 acres of native habitat adjacent to the Wild Animal Park. This project provides an opportunity to work on plant population and community ecology while also exploring interactions between habitat and herpetofauna biodiversity. Internships are 12 weeks in duration with flexible start/end dates. Interns receive a $5,520 stipend for the summer. More information about these fellowships and application. All applications must be postmarked no later than February 28. Posted: 1/28/09.

Southern Illinois University/Bryn Mawr College: A Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) position is available in Mike Sears's Ecology Lab for the summer of 2009. Projects for this position will be related to ongoing experimental mesocosm studies of behavioral thermoregulation in lizards. The participant would gain valuable experience in both the laboratory and field. This experience could potentially lay the groundwork for a senior thesis as well as prepare students for future graduate careers. Our work takes place at the Sevilleta Long Term Ecological Research field station in New Mexico. As a part of this experience, participants will have the opportunity to interact with other REUs, researchers, and graduate students from many different universities. Further, this participant will be a part of a dynamic group of researchers from the labs of Mike Sears and Mike Angilletta. Housing and a stipend will be provided as well as travel costs to the field station. It should be noted that, because of the location and timing of this work, participants should be prepared to work for some long days under hot dry conditions. Eligible candidates must be currently enrolled undergraduates, who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Students from under-represented groups as well as from small colleges are encouraged to apply. We are especially interested in students who plan to pursue graduate studies in ecology, behavior, or evolution. Please send a letter of interest, current CV or resume, and the name of a reference via email to Mike Sears (msears@brynmawr.edu). Also feel free to contact Mike Sears or Mike Angilletta for further information regarding this position. Review of applications will begin immediately. Preference will be given to candidate that can start on or before June 1. Posted: 3/27/09.

Texas A&M University: The department of Entomology is recruiting undergraduate students to participate in a 10-week intensive summer research experience. We are the only Entomology Department in the nation that hosts NSF-REU students. If you are selected for this program you will be funded to go to Texas A&M for ten weeks to complete a research project and to interact with other NSF-REU students in the Department and in the University. We will cover your airfare from and to your US city of origin, pay for your lodging, and living expenses and pay also for you to present your data at a national meeting this year. As part of the NSF-REU effort, I will host one student in my laboratory this summer. My research interests center on the role of predators and parasitoids in the regulation of herbivore insect populations and, in particular, how host-plants influence these interactions. My current research focuses on population genetic aspects of insect herbivores and their natural enemies. One of the research lines in my laboratory involves the study of the evolution of host ranges in parasitoid and hyperparasitoid species. Projects involving specialist and generalist parasitoids of Lepidoptera in Maryland, Northern Italy and in Finland are allowing us to increase our knowledge on the influence of host-range in the population dynamics of parasitoids and hyperparasitoid species. The NSF-REU student joining our lab this summer is expected to contribute to this project by finding out if the population structure of parasitoid species differs between generalist and specialist parasitoids co-occurring in the same geographic areas. We hypothesize that specialist parasitoids will present a more structured population than generalist parasitoids. The NSF-REU student that joins our lab will learn to extract DNA, to do PCRs, and to use population genetic and molecular analysis software to analyze her/his data. The results obtained by the student will be presented in a poster at the Entomological Society of America meeting in Indianapolis at the end of the year. All participants must be U.S. Citizens or permanent residents, and must be planning to enroll as an undergraduate in an accredited college or university in the fall of 2009. If you are interested please send me an email with your CV and a one page statement of purpose to: Dr. Raul F. Medina: (rfmedina@tamu.edu, 979-845-8304). Posted: 2/4/09.

USDA Forest Service: Research assistant positions (Student Temporary Employement Program), Rocky Mountain Research Station, Great Basin Ecosystem Management Project (Reno). The Positions: • Research assistants for field and lab work. • Assit with work on riparian plant ecology, pinyon-juniper ecology, invasive species, and fire ecology. • Study the ecology and management of diverse Great Basin Ecosystems form natural woodlands and wetlands to invaded rangelands. • Work includes collecting field data and laboratory processing of collected materials and data entry. You may be eligible for academic credit—talk to your advisor. • Hours: Full time (40 hrs/wk) from mid/late May until classes resume at the end of August. Part time after this period. • Pay: $10.76 - $14.74/hr depending on education and experience. Qualifications: • Ability to do strenuous activity outdoors under all weather conditions • Interest in working with plants and soils. • Familiarity with plant and soil lab processing techniques (training provided). • Computer skills, especially MS Excel. • Send Cover letter, Resume, Contact information for three references and transcripts (Unofficial-OK) to David Board (dboard@fs.fed.us), Ecologist, USDA Forest Service, RMRS, 920 Valley Rd., Rm. 5, Reno, NV 89512. 775.784.5329. Posted: 2/18/09.

USDA Forest Service: Pacific Southwest Research Station anticipates filling four temporary positions for the summer of 2009 (approximately late May or mid June through late August or mid September - start and end dates somewhat flexible) at the GS-4 to GS-6 levels to assist with forestry and forest ecology research. The duty station for the positions will be at Pinecrest, CA, 35 miles east of Sonora in the Central Sierra Nevada. Successful applicants will assist with forestry and fire-related research projects in the Stanislaus-Tuolumne Experimental Forest, near Pinecrest, CA. The objectives of the studies are 1) to evaluate the influence of stand spatial structure on natural regeneration and resilience to wildfire, and 2) develop methods for minimizing mortality of large pines when fire is reintroduced after a long period of fire suppression. Duties will include laying out study plots using GPS, GIS, and compass, and taking data on forest structural attributes. We will also be collecting tree cores using increment borers to investigate tree growth rates in changing competitive environments over time. These jobs are an excellent opportunity for students interested in gaining field experience. One of the positions will be for a crew leader; for this position an undergraduate degree is required with some graduate work or experience beneficial. Incoming graduate students looking for thesis/dissertation research possibilities are especially encouraged to apply for the crew leader position. Pay commensurate with education and experience (GS-4 = $13.18/hr [some undergraduate coursework specifically relating to the position], GS-5 = $14.74/hr [completed undergraduate degree, or one year of experience at the GS-4 level], GS-6 = $16.44/hr [some graduate coursework and/or experience]). Employees are paid for federal holidays and accrue vacation time (4 hours per two week pay period). Housing in a nearby community and daily transportation to and from the work locations will be provided. Qualifications: o Must be a student or will become a student in the fall. No exceptions. o Coursework in forestry or ecology; GIS or GPS skills a plus but not necessary o Must be physically fit and capable of hiking long distances over difficult terrain o Enjoys being outdoors, and can deal with inclement weather and the occasional mosquito and stinging bee o Capable of living and working closely together with others. The Stanislaus-Tuolumne Experimental Forest is in a spectacular location just west of the Emigrant Wilderness and north of Yosemite National Park and contains some of finest remnant old-growth sugar pine mixed conifer forest outside of the National Parks. Please send resume, along with the name, title, address, phone number, and email address of at least three references to: eknapp@fs.fed.us. While we will accept resumes as late as February 20, applicants are encouraged to apply promptly. For more information call Eric Knapp (530) 226-2555. Posted: 1/26/09.

USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center: 5 to 6 full-time temporary Biological Science Technicians for summer 2009 to assist in running several large-scale wildlife monitoring programs. Students interested in working with biological data related to wildlife surveys are encouraged to apply. Deadline: Please send cover letter and resume by: March 9, 2009. Assist in maintaining one of several wildlife monitoring databases: North American Amphibian Monitoring Program (NAAMP), North American Breeding Bird Survey (BBS), the Bird Point Count Database, and Bird Banding Laboratory (BBL). Duties include: working with wildlife survey data, performance of quality assurance and quality control procedures on biological data, assisting with database management, photocopying and filing, preparation of maps, graphs, charts and other materials for web pages, and assisting in preparation of administrative correspondence. Applicants must be currently enrolled at an accredited college or university. Preference given to majors related to these positions, such as biology, wildlife management, or similar. Preference given to applicants with knowledge of computer software used to summarize and visualize data, with a strong interest in learning more (i.e. Excel, Access, ArcGIS). Applicants must have good communication skills and be able to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. Knowledge of distributions and natural histories of North American birds and/or amphibians is not required, but considered a plus. These are full-time (8 hours/day, 40 hours/week), temporary positions. Work will be performed in an office environment located on the USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center campus in Laurel, MD. Extended periods of computer use will be required. Compensation is commensurate with level of education and experience, salary range is: GS-3 is $12.69, GS-4 is $14.25/hr and GS-5 is $15.94. Student is responsible for all costs of transportation to and from the principal duty station location. The Government does not provide housing, meals or other living expenses while working at the principal duty station. Travel away from the duty station is not expected. Estimated hours per position: 500. Approximate Dates: 26 May-31 August 2009 (flexible). Send resume and letter of interest to: Linda Weir, Wildlife Biologist (lweir@usgs.gov). Posted: 2/16/09.

University College Dublin: This summer programme offers research projects and activities for students in organismal biology using biological collections, combining resources from UCD, the National Museum of Ireland, and the National Botanic Gardens. Students must apply to work with a specific research group. Collections-Based Biology in Dublin -Undergraduate Research Experience & Knowledge Award (CoBiD-UREKA). Full funding for the 10-week programme will be provided for 10 successful candidates, including assistance with air transportation to and from Dublin, accommodation in Dublin, and a small weekly living allowance, as well as research project expenses. The programme is open to students of all nationalities. Dates: June 15 to August 21. For application instructions, research group descriptions, and more information: http://www.ucd.ie/ureka/ Applications must be received by 29 March 2009. Posted: 1/15/09.

University of Akron: We invite undergraduate students to participate in a summer 2009 Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Program, sponsored by the National Science Foundation. This REU site program supports collaborative research on "Ecology at the Urban-Rural Interface," with opportunities to investigate species, interactions, and ecosystems within human dominated landscapes. Students will be immersed in their own research projects that are part of a larger, interactive team of students and faculty. We offer a stipend, housing, and support for research supplies and travel to a scientific meeting to present your results. Review of applications will begin March 15, 2009. Women and minorities are strongly encouraged to apply. For more information, and an application: visit www3.uakron.edu/biology/fieldstation/reu.htm, contact the Program Director, Dr. Randy Mitchell (330-972-5122 or rjm2@uakron.edu), or write to Biology REU Program, Department of Biology, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325-3908. Posted: 3/5/09.

University of Alaska-Fairbanks: Interested in learning about climate change science? Want to gain experience in northern ecosystems? We are seeking applications from enthusiastic undergraduates or recent graduates for a NSF-funded REU (Research Experience for Undergraduates) position to conduct summer ecological field research in interior Alaska. Only U.S. citizens or permanent residents are eligible for this position. The successful candidate will participate in the Alaska Peatland Experiment (APEX), which is conducting experiments examining interactions between warming, hydrology, and carbon cycling in boreal wetlands of interior Alaska. The student will participate in research projects that are quantifying vegetation dynamics, greenhouse gas emissions, and soil hydrology, and also will have the opportunity to develop their own individual research project. The APEX project is part of the Bonanza Creek Long Term Ecological Research (LTER) site, and our project personnel interact with LTER scientists across many institutions. This REU position will involve a competitive monthly stipend. Travel to/from our field sites located outside of Fairbanks, Alaska as well as housing on the UAF campus will be provided. Successful candidates must demonstrate their ability to participate in rigorous fieldwork and to work well in a group, and must be willing to work long hours in the field, occasionally under adverse weather conditions. Knowledge or background in wetland ecology, plant ecology, and statistics would be an advantage for this position. Interested applicants should send a copy of their CV and a written statement of research background and interests to Dr. Merritt Turetsky (mrt@uoguelph.ca). Posted: 4/10/09.

University of Arizona: REU (Research Experience for Undergraduates) is a National Science Foundation-sponsored program wherein undergraduates receive a stipend (up to $5,760 or $480 per week for 10 to 12 weeks) to conduct independent research projects under faculty guidance and mentorship. The School of Natural Resources has two openings for REU scholars for the summer of 2009. One position is for a collaborative study with Dr. Steve Archer (UA) and Dr. Susan Schwinning (Texas State University) investigating why some shrubs are more successful than others in invading and establishing in grasslands. Another position is for a collaborative study with Dr. Steve Archer and Dr. Dave Breshears at UA and collaborators at New Mexico State, Loyola University and the University of Kentucky examining how plant litter decomposition in deserts is influenced by interactions between radiant energy and wind and water redistribution of soil. In addition to their own investigations, REU scholars will participate in controlled environment studies on the UA campus; and in field studies at the Santa Rita Experimental Range just south of Tucson. For more details on the two projects and application procedures, see http://ag.arizona.edu/research/archer/. Application Deadline: April 30, 2009; or until suitable candidate is hired. Posted: 3/30/09.

University of Arkansas: Research Experience for Undergraduates (NSF/REU), summer 2009, for up to 15 undergraduates who have completed at least 3 semesters of coursework. The focus of this REU is on field-based research on ecological services, and each student will work with a faculty mentor on issues ranging from water quality to ecology of birds and black bears in the Ozarks. This program works primarily with federally recognized Native American tribes and Native American students. However, all other interested students are encouraged to apply. This 10-week program consists of a one-week emersion course on field methods, 8 weeks of intensive Research Experience and a one week Data Analysis and Symposia. Room and board are included at the University of Arkansas, as well as a $400 weekly stipend and a travel allowance. 10-week summer program, 1 June to 7 August 2009. Stipend $4000, onsite room and board, round-trip travel costs. Detailed Program Information: www.ecoreu.uark.edu/. Applications due: February 15, 2009. Posted: 1/26/09.

University of California Santa Barbara: The Levine laboratory has a summer research experience for undergraduate (REU) position focused on the maintenance of species diversity in annual plant communities. The REU student will explore the coexistence of annual plants living in serpentine soils with models based on our field system. He or she will use simulations to explore how temporal fluctuations in germination and fecundity influence the coexistence of the competitors. This project is ideal for an REU student because the student will gain experience with ecology at the interface of theory and experimentation and will have the opportunity to explore independent ideas within the scope of a larger ongoing study. In addition, the REU will spend considerable time helping out on the broader NSF project, and in the process, interact with scientists at the University of Washington who are collaborating with our UCSB group. The position is 12 weeks and pays a $5000 stipend. The REU will be responsible for their living accommodations. To apply, please email a cover letter, resume, and contact information for two references to Jonathan Levine at levine@lifesci.ucsb.edu, by April 25th, 2009. The student must be returning to school in the fall to be eligible for the position. Posted: 4/7/09.

University of Connecticut: 2009 summer research fellowship experience in South Africa. We are seeking one qualified undergraduate to participate in field-based research to study plant biodiversity and ecology in South Africa. The research program, funded by the National Science Foundation, will run for about 6 weeks during the summer of 2009, likely starting in mid-May. Applicants must be citizens or permanent residents and must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate program (students graduating this May may apply). It will involve research at several field sites in different areas of the fabulously diverse Cape Floristic Region. Students will work closely with graduate student Adam Wilson, who has been conducting research in South Africa for the past two years, and Professor John Silander, who has been working in South Africa for the past nine years. The overall goal of this project is to understand the dynamics of vegetation and fire in the landscape with respect to weather and climate in the recent past to inform our understanding of what may happen in the future. The student selected will also conduct an independent research project in collaboration with Adam Wilson, John Silander and collaborating scientists in South Africa. The program will cover all travel expenses for students, local expenses in South Africa, as well as providing a stipend of about $3,000 for your 5+ week commitment. Field work will include collection of above-ground biomass data from the shrublands (fynbos) surrounding Capetown for comparison with remotely sensed (satellite) images. This is a fairly labor intensive process and involves working long hours outside in all sorts of weather (from sunny and warm to cold and rainy). It will be winter there and we will see frost and possibly snow in the mountains. We will spend most of our time in protected areas conducting research, but there will also be some time spent in Cape Town and especially at the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Our accommodations will vary, likely including bed&breakfast style housing, hostels, and cabins when we are in the protected areas. Prior experience with map, compass, and GPS will be useful. Some individualized preparation will be needed by the student prior to departure. This will include reading and watching films about the history (natural & social) of South Africa. Interested students should submit: i) Curriculum Vitae, ii) grades (informal transcripts are fine) and a list of relevant courses, iii) two letters of recommendation, iv) a cover letter that describes any previous research and international experiences, and a brief statement explaining your interest in obtaining field research experience in plant ecology and evolution. Please submit application materials as attachments (preferably in a single PDF) in an email by January 31 to Adam Wilson (adam.wilson@uconn.edu). Posted: 1/8/09.

University of Maryland Eastern Shore: Rising sophomores interested in marine and estuarine science are invited to participate in laboratory and field based research mentored by faculty of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and the Paul S. Sarbanes Coastal Ecology Center. The 10-week research experience funded by the National Science Foundation provides students a $4500 stipend, free room and board, and a supply budget for research with an advisor. Groups under-represented in the sciences are especially encouraged to apply. UMES is located on the historic southern peninsula of Delmarva. The school supports well-funded programs in marine and agricultural science and maintains state-of-the-art laboratories, equipment, and a fleet of boats and university vehicles. The REU program (2 June – 7 August 2009) will provide interns experienced mentorship in research and scholarship, a chance to improve verbal and written communication, and experiential field trips, while also working within the laboratory of a research faculty advisor. For additional information or an on-line application, please e-mail Drs. Joe Love (jlove@umes.edu), or Paulinus Chigbu (pchigbu@umes.edu), or download the application. All application materials must be received by 7 April. Applicants will be notified of their status by 21 April. Posted: 3/18/09.

University of Massachusetts at Amherst: REU and Research Assistant -- Ecology of multispecies interactions: Herbivory, pollination and mycorrhizal interactions in cucumber. Two positions are available to study the ecology of multispecies interactions in an agro-ecosystem this summer. This research will integrate multiple kinds of interactions to ask how aboveground and belowground antagonists (leaf herbivores and root herbivores) and mutualists (pollinators and mycorrhizae) interact to influence each other and reproductive yield in cucumber. I am looking for motivated, independent students with a background in ecology/evolution who are interested in gaining or broadening her/his research experience. Students must be able to work well both independently and as part of a team, and be willing to work long days and possibly early mornings out in the field. Both positions are full-time without benefits, starting in June and ending in August (exact dates are flexible). REU position: This is part of the National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates program. Students must be undergraduates during summer 2009 to be eligible. The successful applicant will conduct an independent research project during the summer that will conclude with a presentation and formal write-up. The REU student will also assist as part of a team on a larger experiment. Stipend is $450/week with $300/month towards local housing. This student will accompany the Adler lab to attend the Ecological Society of America meeting in Alburquerque, New Mexico. Research assistant position: This position is open to all applicants and has a salary of $10/hour. The research assistant will help carry out the goals of a large research experiment. Depending on the applicant's experience, there is also the potential to conduct an independent research project. Interested applicants should send (as a single pdf) the following: (1) a cover letter describing why you are interested in the position, your previous research experience, which position(s) you would like to be considered for, and your preferred start and end date, (2) a CV including your major, expected graduation date, current GPA, and relevant coursework, and (3) the names and contact information for three references to Dr. Lynn Adler (lsadler[at]ent.umass.edu). Review of applications will begin April 15 and continue until positions are filled. Posted: 3/31/09.

University of Michigan: The Cooperative Institute for Limnology and Ecosystems Research (CILER) announces the 2009 Great Lakes Summer Student Fellowship Program. The 2009 program is hosted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL) and Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, and the U.S.Geological Survey's (USGS) Great Lakes Science Center. We seek to fill 22 full-time, twelve-week positions. Preference is given to currently enrolled or just-graduated undergraduates, although graduate student applications will also be considered. Successful applicants will receive a stipend of $5,750 for the twelve-week fellowship. Summer fellowships are available in a broad range of fields including Aquatic Ecology, Outreach and Communications, Maritime Archaeology, Data Analysis, Modeling, Marine Instrumentation, Oceanography, and Wetland Ecology. Fellowship applications must contain: 1. a completed application form 2. a résumé 3. transcripts (unofficial copies are acceptable and can be mailed or e-mailed separately) 4. one reference letter (can be sent electronically if it originates from the reference writer). E-mail applications to: GLsummerfellows@umich.edu. All application material is due 27-February, 2009. Late applications will not be considered. Decisions will be made by 31-March, 2009. For specific questions about each opportunity, contact the individual mentors (see link above for more information). Posted: 1/28/09.

University of Minnesota: Summer Forestry Field Technician. The Department of Forest Resources is seeking two undergraduate students to serve as forestry field technicians in a research project assessing the impacts of increased woody biomass removal on forest productivity and carbon storage in aspen-dominated ecosystems of northern Minnesota. These positions are part of a project establishing several large-scale, silvicultural manipulations to assess the ecological impacts of different levels of woody biomass removal, as well as the importance of site-level legacies (leave trees and harvest residues) in maintaining the resiliency and sustainability of aspen ecosystems. Applicant requirements: Applicants should have a background in forestry, natural resources, environmental science, ecology or biology, and should have previous field experience. Applicants must be willing and able to work efficiently in a relatively remote forested setting. Work sites are located near Orr and Virginia, MN and housing will be provided in Grand Rapids, MN. Work will start in late May and end in mid-August. Hourly wage will vary from $10-$12 depending on work experience. Work will involve extensive field work and data analysis, including the collection and analysis of forest soils, vegetation, and fine and coarse woody debris data. These positions will work closely with scientists at the University of Minnesota and the USDA Forest Service Northern Research Station. Interested candidates should send resume with relevant work experiences, including two references to: Dr. Anthony D’Amato, Department of Forest Resources, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108. Phone: 612-625-3733, damato@umn.edu. Posted: 4/30/09.

University of Minnesota: Summer field internship - Forest ecology/global warming. We seek undergraduate or newly graduated students with a background or interest in biology, ecology, physiology, environmental science, biophysics, forestry, or related field. Interns are needed primarily from June until August but some workers as early as March and others workers are needed through November. Field work will be split between research sites at the Cloquet Forestry Center in Cloquet, MN, and the Hubachek Wilderness Research Center in Ely, MN. An individual’s home base may be at either of these locations. Both research sites are in beautiful forested settings and provide access to the natural areas of Northern Minnesota including the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Typical work days are eight hours Monday through Friday, however some tasks require weekend, early morning or evening work. Travel between sites will be necessary. General responsibilities include collecting and recording data in both field and laboratory environments in accordance with established protocols, limited data entry, and aiding principle investigators and graduate students as needed. Specific field responsibilities include measurements of plant growth, physiology, and phenology; and routine maintenance of field instruments or research equipment. Desired qualifications include: 1) willingness to work hard in outdoor setting, 2) ability to follow research protocols, 3) familiarity with plant and tree species of Northern Minnesota, 4) an ability to work well and play well with others, and 5) enthusiasm and curiosity. As part or independent of these positions, opportunities abound for guided research with project investigators: Peter Reich, Rebecca Montgomery, Roy Rich, Sarah Hobbie, or Jacek Oleksyn. We actively seek undergraduates, recent graduates or graduate students who want to undertake supervised research within the scope of the B4WARMED experiment. We encourage and will assist students to solicit student research funding as it may be available. Questions regarding research opportunities should be directed to Roy Rich at: rich0475@umn.edu. More information on independent research opportunities with B4WARMED. Please send resume including relevant experiences and work along with two references and dates available to: Artur Stefanski (stefa066@umn.edu), Department of Forest Resources, University of Minnesota, 1530 Cleveland Ave N., St Paul, MN 55108 USA. Posted: 1/28/09.

University of Montana: One field crew supervisor and one field crew position will be hired to assist a graduate student with data collection. The project’s objective is to assess the response of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir to drought and climate variability across different habitat types and growing conditions. The crew will spend approximately three months working across all corners of the Colville National Forest in northeast WA to locate sites and collect data. Camping will sometimes be required to access the most remote sites. Primary duties will involve coring trees and measuring various stand and tree attributes. Locating study sites will be an important and challenging component of these positions and will require the use of topographic maps, GPS, 4WD and off-trail hiking. These positions will be hired as USFS employees through the STEP program. Candidates must be students that plan on returning to a college or university degree program following the field season. These positions are best suited to upper-level undergraduates or graduate students who are giving serious consideration to advanced study or professional work in forest ecology or silviculture. Candidates must be in good physical condition and capable of working long days in the field under hot, rugged and sometimes remote conditions. Most importantly, I seek individuals who are self-motivated, detail-oriented, have legible handwriting, and can work and live cooperatively with others. Valid driver’s license and safe driving record is required. Salary: $13.18 to $16.44/hr DOE. Housing will be available. Positions will be based out of the Sullivan Lake Ranger District, ~20 miles from the Canadian border. Anticipated start and end dates are 8 June to 28 August 2009. The work schedule will most likely be four 10 hour days with three days off each week. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until 10 April. Application Materials: 1) Cover letter that includes information about your interests and qualifications; dates of availability; and names, phone numbers, and email addresses of 3 references - including your most recent employer; 2) Resume; 3) Academic Transcripts. To Apply: Attach application materials (preferably as a single MS Word or Adobe PDF file) using the following naming format: “lastname_firstname_09App”. Email complete application with subject line “2009 Field Work Application” to: gunnar_carnwath@yahoo.com For more information: Gunnar Carnwath, PhD candidate (gunnar_carnwath@yahoo.com, 509-675-1540). Posted: 3/9/09.

University of Nevada Reno: The Academy for the Environment, facilitating student involvement in environmental research and education at UNR, and the Great Basin Institute, an environmental research, education and conservation organization, invite applications for the summer 2009 REU program in natural resources – conservation and socioeconomic issues, sponsored by the National Science Foundation. Research teams will work in the eastern Sierra region of Nevada, within the Lake Tahoe-Truckee River-Pyramid Lake watershed, on studies ranging from fire effects on watershed restoration to anthropogenic influences on water quality along the shore zone at Lake Tahoe. Participants will be exposed to diverse scientific inquiries and technologies to gain insight into how science informs land and water use policy, management and conservation initiatives. Dates: 8 June through 14 August 2009. Stipend $4500, plus housing and per diem. Research Topics Include: • Biological, physical and chemical sampling of aquatic resources • Impacts and management of invasive species • Remote sensing and rephotography (comparing past and current images of an area)analyses of environmental change • Resource management policy and implementation within the watershed • Recreation and capacity studies of state and federal lands in the Tahoe Basin. Eligibility: Qualified undergraduates, who will have junior or senior status and will be a full-time student in the Fall 2009 term, with a combination of coursework in the following disciplines are invited to apply: environmental studies, natural resources, biology, ecology, hydrology, resource economics, and statistics. We especially encourage applications from students at primarily undergraduate institutions and from underrepresented groups. Participants must be citizens or permanent legal residents of the USA. Review of applications will begin on 20 March 2009. Contact: See http://environment.unr.edu/ for links to an application and other information on this REU program. For further information, contact Mike Collopy at mcollopy@unr.edu or 775-784-8262. Posted: 3/5/09.

University of North Carolina: Undergraduate research internship in marine fisheries and ecological conservation. We seek summer interns to work in Charles H. (Pete) Peterson's lab at the University of North Carolina's Institute of Marine Sciences in Morehead City. Interns will work on multiple studies in marine ecology, including foraging ecology of cownose rays, fish and crab predation on juvenile oysters, predator-prey interactions on oyster reefs, and impacts of climate change on estuarine habitats. Other studies include the effects of beach nourishment on coastal habitat, human effects on barrier island ecology, and sea turtle hatchling predation. This internship will involve field and laboratory work. Interns will interact with both faculty and graduate students at the Institute of Marine Sciences. Start and end dates are flexible. Qualifications: Upper-division undergraduates or recent graduates with an interest in field work, research experience, and a biology background will be most competitive. SCUBA certification preferred. A monthly stipend of $1300 will be provided. Closing date: March 1, 2009. Contact/Application: Please send the following 3 documents to the email below: 1) Resume, including GPA, email addresses of three references, and transcript (unofficial); 2) A description of relevant experience (500 words or less); and 3) A brief essay on how this internship fits into your professional goals (500 words or less). Email Nate Geraldi (geraldi@email.unc.edu) for further information. Posted: 1/22/09.

University of Notre Dame: Two Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) positions are available in Dr. Jennifer Tank's Stream Ecology Laboratory for summer 2009. Duties will include collecting sediment and water samples, assisting with field surveys, measurement of physical stream features, use of data-logging equipment, analysis of water chemistry and sediment samples, laboratory assays of biological nitrogen transformations, building and deploying pore water oxygen samplers, and gas chromatography. The REUs will work directly with graduate students and have the opportunity to perform independent research complementary to the larger projects. Each REU will be assigned to work primarily on one of two projects: Restoration of ecosystem function in agricultural streams, or Identifying potential physicochemical constraints on survival of the endangered clubshell mussel, Pleurobema clava, in the Tippecanoe River. Eligible candidates must be current sophomores and juniors, who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Women, minority students, disabled students, and students from small colleges are encouraged to apply. Please send a letter of interest and current CV or resume via email to Sarah Roley, sroley@nd.edu, or Mia Stephen, stephen.2@nd.edu. Review of applications will begin immediately. Posted: 3/20/09.

University of Notre Dame: Field Assistant Sought For Biological Field Studies On Vancouver Island, British Columbia. We seek two highly motivated undergraduate students or recent college graduates to participate in field research from early April through the end of June on southern Vancouver Island, British Columbia (1 person) and in Ashland/Medford, Oregon (1 person). The assistants will participate in a project that quantifies the traits involved in butterfly species’ responses to climate change using both field-based and genomic techniques. Field duties include rearing butterflies for experiments and collecting weather data. Assistants must be prepared to work long consecutive days outside, in a variety of weather conditions. Opportunities for extended research in the lab at Notre Dame following field studies may be available. Other participants in field studies include Ph.D. students and technical staff. Monthly stipend and housing provided. Willing to work with student applicants to arrange for course work requirements to be completed from the field. Interested applicants should send a CV/resume with references to Jason Dzurisin (Hellmann lab manager) at jdzurisin@nd.edu. For more information, contact Jessica Hellmann (primary investigator) at hellmann.3@nd.edu. Applications must be received by Feb 15th, 2009. Posted: 1/26/09.

University of Notre Dame Environmental Research Center: UNDERC is accepting applications for two summer research programs. These programs promote an understanding of field-oriented environmental biology and how field research is conducted. Both programs focus on 9 – 10 weeks of summer field research and instruction in environmental biology at the UNDERC-East facility in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and the potential for a second summer at UNDERC-West in Montana. We are taking applications for UNDERC-East summer 2009 and the potential to participate in UNDERC-West that continues the following summer 2010. In each summer, you receive six credits. Acceptance in either program includes tuition, housing, round trip transportation between Notre Dame and the UNDERC site and a $2500 summer stipend. The UNDERC-East site encompasses more than 7500 acres with abundant wildlife (including wolves, black bear, deer, and fisher) and includes 30 lakes, several streams, wetlands, and northern forests that have been protected for nearly a century. The UNDERC-West site encompasses more than a million acres with abundant wildlife (including bison, elk, mountain lion, and grizzly bear) and includes grasslands, montane forests, streams and lakes on the Flathead Reservation in Montana and associated tribal lands. Each summer includes 4 - 5 modules (each a week) on field biology. At UNDERC-East, modules include bird/mammal ecology, amphibian/reptile ecology, insect ecology, aquatic ecology and forest ecology. At UNDERC-West, modules include wildlife and grassland ecology, mountain ecology, stream ecology and Native American ecology. Remaining time is spent designing and completing an independent field research project under the direction and assistance of a faculty member or graduate student. Applications are due November 7, 2008. More information can be found at http://underc.nd.edu. Posted: 10/15/08.

University of Oregon: Undergraduate Opportunity for Summer Research in Wetland Ecology in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. We seek an undergraduate to work on a field project whose objective is to develop a better understanding of the processes that control methane production and emissions from a variety of different types of wetlands. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that is naturally produced by wetlands, and there is concern that northern wetlands will emit greater amounts of methane under future global warming, providing a natural feedback to anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions. The research will be conducted at a beautiful field station (University of Notre Dame Environmental Research Center [UNDERC]) in northern Michigan. The position is funded by the National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program at a monthly stipend of $1,800 and includes housing onsite and airfare to and from UNDERC. The student will work in both the field and laboratory, will learn a number of cutting edge techniques in ecosystem ecology and biogeochemistry, and will have the opportunity for an independent research project. The successful candidate needs to be a continuing undergraduate (i.e., enrolled in school in fall 2009) in the natural sciences who enjoys both field and lab work. Send inquiries to Dr. Scott Bridgham, Center for Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Oregon, at the following e-mail address: bridgham@uoregon.edu. Posted: 4/27/09.

University of Puerto Rico: The Institute for Tropical Ecosystem Studies is accepting applications for the Summer 2009 internship in Tropical Ecology and Evolution at El Verde Field Station, Puerto Rico. The internship will run from June 1st to August 7th, 2009. Application deadline: 28 February 2009. The program will offer students the opportunity to have hands-on experience fields such as: - Plant Systematics and Population Biology. - Plant Community Dynamics and Forest Ecology. - Plant eco-physiology. - Terrestrial Arthropod Ecology. - Aquatic Insect Ecology. Students will receive a stipend of $4,000 for the ten weeks duration of the program. Round-trip plane ticket from home institution to Puerto Rico will be reimbursed, up to a maximum of $600. The program will cover housing at the University of Puerto Rico and El Verde Field Station. The National Science Foundation and the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras campus, fund the program. The program is limited to undergraduate students pursuing a bachelor degree at a college or university during summer 2009 and to US citizen or permanent resident. Application materials and further information can be found at http://ites.upr.edu/REU/. Posted: 1/29/09.

University of Tennessee, Knoxville: NIMBioS - The National Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis is hosting an REU program for summer: June 1 - July 24 2009. Undergraduate majors in math, biology, and related fields will live on campus and work with UT professors on state-of-the-art research projects. Stipend and housing provided. For more information please visit www.nimbios.org. The application deadline is Feb 16, 2009. Posted: 1/13/09.

University of Texas at Austin: This summer the Environmental Science Institute is recruiting up to ten students for an NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU). The program is focused on Global Change and Its Impacts, and is designed to provide an interdisciplinary perspective by integrating ecology, geology, urban studies, policy, hydrology, and marine science, among others. Students will work in a research group headed by a faculty mentor, and come together regularly to participate in topical and professional development seminars, field excursions, and social outings. Workshops and field trips will familiarize students with pressing environmental issues surrounding global change and faculty mentors will guide students in the development of independent research projects. The ten week program runs from the first week of June to the first week of August. Each student will be awarded a salary of $4,500 for the summer, and some travel funds will be available to help defray the cost of traveling to Austin. Students will be housed in a UT dormitory, and the costs of the dormitory and a meal plan are included in the program. We seek students presently in their sophomore or junior years, with strong credentials and majoring in biology, ecology, geological sciences, civil engineering, marine science, urban ecology, chemistry, or any other environmentally-related discipline. Applications are due February 1, 2009. Participants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. For more information and to apply, please visit www.esi.utexas.edu/research/reu/. Posted: 1/20/09.

University of Texas Marine Science Institute: Research Experiences for Undergraduates -Field Experiences in South Texas Coastal Dynamics, June 7 – August 14, 2009. Ten fellowships will be available for the summer of 2009, for undergraduate students to conduct independent research projects on the causes, effects and consequences of coastal environmental change. Each student will work with a faculty mentor on topics such as: · Watershed processes, land-sea interactions, coastal hydrology · Biogeochemistry, organic matter cycling, water column optics · Zooplankton ecology, phytoplankton physiology and ecology · Fish reproductive physiology, environmental toxicology · Estuarine ecology, seagrass and marsh ecosystems · Larval fish ecology, behavior, mariculture · Benthic and community ecology. The Marine Science Institute is located in Port Aransas, on 72 acres on the Gulf of Mexico. REU projects will take advantage of the wide variety of coastal habitats near the Institute, including shallow bays, hypersaline lagoons, seagrass beds, estuaries, mangroves, and marshes. UTMSI is the lead state agency for the 185,000-acre Mission-Aransas National Estuarine Research Reserve, the only reserve in the Western Gulf of Mexico biogeographic region. The 10-week summer program begins with a 2-day research cruise on the R/V Katy and ends with a symposium in which students will present their research results. Along the way, students will create web pages and blogs about their research, and participate in a variety of professional development activities. · Eligibility: Students must be undergraduates in their sophomore or junior year, and U.S. citizens or permanent residents of the U.S. and its possessions. · Stipends: Students will receive a summer stipend of $450 per week for the 10-week program, full room and board, a research allowance, and a travel allowance. · Program information: http://reu.utmsi.utexas.edu · Deadline for applications is February 16, 2009. Posted: 1/20/09.

University of Virginia: Mountain Lake Biological Station is pleased to announce its summer program of field-based undergraduate and graduate-level credit courses and workshops offered by nationally recruited faculty, and its NSF REU undergraduate research internship program, now in its 17th year. Work at MLBS focuses on field-based ecology, evolution, physiology, and behavior. For more information and to apply: Summer field courses | Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU). REU Application Deadline: February 20, 2009. Program Dates: May 25 - July 31. Posted: 12/12/08.

University of Washington: The Hille Ris Lambers lab is looking for an undergraduate student to conduct an independent ecological research project at University of Washington (Seattle) in Summer, 2009. The student will be funded through a Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) grant from the National Science Foundation. This summer, the undergraduate intern will conduct a study to test how the abundance of water and nitrogen (important soil resources for which plants compete) affects the coexistence of plants in this community. The project will be conducted in the greenhouse at UW, allowing the student to control the supply of water and nitrogen and to complete the project in one summer. In addition, the student will travel to Sedgwick Reserve in Santa Barbara, California with Dr. Hille Ris Lambers and a graduate student for a week to survey the natural serpentine plant community (travel and lodging costs covered) and interact with scientists at University of California (Santa Barbara) who we collaborate with. This is an excellent opportunity for students to gain research experience and learn about ecology. The position is 12 weeks and comes with a $500 a week stipend. If interested in the internship, send a i) resume; ii) copy of your transcripts; iii) one-page cover letter explaining your interest and iv) the name and contact information of two references that can comment on your abilities to Dr. Hille Ris Lambers at jhrl@u.washington.edu (with "REU Internship" in the subject line) by April 20th, 2009. The student must be returning to school in the fall to be eligible for this internship. Posted: 4/8/09.

University of Wisconsin – Madison: We are looking for two motivated and mature undergraduates to join an interdisciplinary research team that will be studying the ecology of lake-land interactions in northern Iceland in the summer of 2009. The research focuses on understanding the role midges play in the dynamics of terrestrial food webs surrounding sub-arctic lakes. The responsibilities of the field assistants will include helping post-docs, faculty and graduate students conduct field research, collecting and processing arthropod and plant samples, conducting lab and field experiments and contributing to logistics and field station duties. The position will include travel expenses to and from Iceland, food and lodging, and a small stipend. Interns are expected to join the research team in Iceland from late-May/early-June to mid/late August. To be considered for the position, please submit the following: a cover letter outlining your background and the reasons you would be a good candidate for this position, a current resume along with the names of two people that can serve as references. Interest in biology/ecology is preferred but we will consider applicants from all disciplines. Send your materials (in one PDF) to Dr. David Hoekman, Department of Entomology, dhoekman@wisc.edu After initial screening of materials, finalists will be contacted for interviews in March. Posted: 3/5/09.

University of Wisconsin – Madison: Field Research Assistants – Vegetation Sampling, Forest Landscape Ecology Lab, Department of Forest & Wildlife Ecology. We are looking to hire 2-3 undergraduate or recently graduated students to work as field assistants for an on-going study in northern hardwood-hemlock forests of the Flambeau River State Forest in rural north central Wisconsin. This study uses experimental manipulations of forest structure and herbivory to examine methods of restoring old-growth forest composition, structure and function to the understory of younger second-growth forests. Duties: Field assistants will collect post-treatment data on the spatial distribution of approximately 200 species of vascular plants (tree seedlings, shrubs, herbaceous annuals and perennials, including grasses and sedges). Other tasks may include measuring the corresponding microclimate. If possible, sampling will commence early in the spring to coincide with the phenology of the spring ephemerals (~ April 15th). Desired Skills: Applicants should demonstrate: the ability to work as part of a team in a remote forest setting (supervised as well as under a minimal amount of supervision), written and verbal communication skills, meticulous attention to detail, the ability to follow field and lab protocols, organizational skills, training and/or experience in plant identification. Wage: $8-9 per hour. Housing and daily travel to research site is provided. To Apply: Please send a current resume and cover letter via email indicating your education, experience and availability, as well as the names and contact information for three references to Julia Burton (jiburton@wisc.edu). Evaluation of applications will begin immediately and continue until all positions are filled. Posted: 3/5/09.

West Virginia University: 2009 Summer Research Experience for Undergraduates in "Biological Responses to the Environment from Genes to the Ecosystem" is available in forest soils and forest biogeochemistry, among many other topics. This is an NSF-supported summer research program for undergraduate students who are interested in careers in environmental biology, ecology, or plant biology. Students receive a stipend, room and board, and travel allowance. Application deadline is March 31, and start date is May 25. For more information on this program, and application materials, interested students should go to: http://reu.as.wvu.edu. Posted: 3/3/09.

Summer Jobs and Internships | Undergraduate Programs | Short Courses

Undergraduate Programs:

Smithsonian-Mason Semester program in Conservation Studies: we are now recruiting students for the Spring 09 term. This unique educational opportunity provides a springboard for students as they embark on careers in conservation. This 16-credit undergraduate program, housed in a Smithsonian research facility adjacent to the Shenandoah National Park, offers students the opportunity to live and learn among prominent research scientists, educators, conservation practitioners, and some of the rarest species on earth. Grounded in natural science, this interdisciplinary semester combines public policy, sociology, conflict resolution and global awareness. Students take five simultaneous courses: meet formally four hours per day, four days a week, in addition to lab sessions, evening lectures and field trips to locations throughout the Washington DC area. This is an academically intense experience that combines field work with active learning. Smithsonian-Mason Semester graduates find internship opportunities with many agencies. Involvement with research projects prepares students for Masters and Doctoral programs that are available for students who wish to continue their studies. Students should be in their junior or senior years, be in good academic standing, and have some coursework in Biology. This program can be a valuable addition to degree programs in conservation biology, environmental studies, ecology, and related fields. For more information, application, and video, see: http://mccs.gmu.edu or email smithsemgmu.edu. We also invite inquiries from interested faculty and advisors. Dr. Anne Marchant Associate Director, Mason Center for Conservation Studies c/o Smithsonian Conservation and Research Center 1500 Remount Rd. Front Royal, VA 22630 amarchangmu.edu. Posted: 9/2/08.

Strategies for Ecology Education, Development and Sustainability (SEEDS): The Ecological Society of America's SEEDS Undergraduate Research Fellowship application deadline has been extended to October 1. The SEEDS program promotes ecology opportunities to students that are underrepresented in the profession. Don't miss this unique opportunity to customize your ecology research experience. The possibilities with the SEEDS fellowship are unparalleled, with awardees having almost the entire ESA membership, 10,000 strong, to choose from as mentors. Fellowship students essentially conduct a mini thesis from writing a proposal, to conducting their research and analyzing results, to presenting at the ESA meeting. The fellowship stipend is $6,000, plus all research expenses, plus travel to two ESA meetings and a leadership meeting making the total award over $12,000. The SEEDS fellowship is the highest honor in the SEEDS program, and fellows are encouraged as future leaders of ESA. To learn more about the SEEDS fellowship and to apply, visit http://www.esa.org/seeds/fellowship/about.php. For more information about SEEDS and the other activities supported by the program, visit http://esa.org/seeds/. Posted: 7/1/08.

Summer Jobs and Internships | Undergraduate Programs | Short Courses

Short Courses:

Summer Courses: The Highlands Biological Station, in Highlands, North Carolina, is offering its 2009 series of summer courses and workshops that can be taken for credit toward your academic program. HBS is an inter-institutional research center of the University of North Carolina. Highlands, North Carolina, is located in the southern Blue Ridge Mountains, at an average elevation about 3,800 feet, and situated near the Nantahala National Forest, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cherokee Indian Reservation, Appalachian Trail, Blue Ridge Parkway, and numerous other national reserves. For more information and to apply, visit www.wcu.edu/hbs, email hbs@email.wcu.edu or call 828-526-2602. Posted: 1/23/09.

SEEDS Field Trip: The Ecological Society of America’s SEEDS (Strategies for Ecology Education, Diversity, and Sustainability) program is pleased to announce the upcoming Fall 2009 Field Trip. Student Field Trips meet the SEEDS mission by providing exciting opportunities for underrepresented undergraduate students to explore their interest in ecology. Field trips allow students to spend four to seven days at an ecologically significant site, such as a field station, research laboratory, or national park, learning about the science of ecology, exploring career options, and seeing the practical applications of ecology. The 2009 SEEDS Fall Field Trip will take place from September 17-20 at the Mountain Lake Biological Station in Virginia. All expenses are covered by SEEDS. This field trip provides a unique opportunity for students to learn from, and perhaps contribute to, scientific research programs taking place at the research station. For more information about SEEDS field trips and to apply for the Fall 2009 field trip, please visit http://www.esa.org/seeds/fieldtrips/. All applications for this field trip must be received by midnight on May 1, 2009. Please contact Erin Vinson at erin@esa.org or 202-833-8773 with any questions. Posted: 4/3/09.

Alaska Wildlands Studies Summer Field Program: an intensive field course for college students focusing on the ecology, geology, and local culture of the rugged Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Alaska. The seven week course is taught through the Wrangell Mountains Center, a private, non-profit, environmental institute located in the historic mining town of McCarthy, in the heart of the park. The nearby peaks, glaciers, alpine valleys and subalpine forests provide an ideal setting for hands-on fieldwork, while the rich cultural history of the park provides a fascinating setting in which to conduct research. Students will gain a thorough understanding of ecological and geological principles in the context of the local wilderness environment through a combination of classroom lectures and rigorous field exercises. Using this skill set, students and faculty will collaborate to design field research projects based on each student’s individual interests. Using their field data, students will complete a final paper and presentation of their results. Participants earn 12 semester units (18 quarter units) of transferable, upper division college credit through the California State University Monterey Bay. This credit has been successfully transferred to a wide range of colleges and universities to satisfy ecology and biology degree field requirements and geology field camp requirements. Alaska field studies program participants receive credits for three courses: Environmental Wildlands Studies (ENVS 370 A), 4 semester units; Wildlands Ecological Evaluation (ENVS 370 B), 4 semester units; Wildlands Environment and Culture (ENVS 370 C), 4 semester units. Participants will receive a letter grade (or a pass/no pass on request) based on 1) assigned field exercises and daily entries in field journals; 2) formal presentations at group seminars; 3) written examinations; 4) written term paper; and 5) completion of required readings. Program Fee: $2395 plus $75 application fee, due 5/15/09. Estimated in-county expenses: $1525 per person for land transportation, fuel, lodging, field activities/permits, course materials. Scholarships and financial aid are available for this course. For scholarship information or for more details regarding the course and location, please visit our websites at: http://www.wrangells.org/aws.html http://www.wildlandsstudies.com/5.html. Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have about the program. Sophie Gilbert, Faculty (sophielgilbert@gmail.com); Megan Gahl, Faculty and Academic Coordinator (gahlm@unb.ca). Posted: 3/6/09.

Primatology, Wildlife Ecology, and Conservation Field School: August 1st - 28th, 2009 in Kenya. This field school is a joint effort of Rutgers University, the National Museums of Kenya, and the Kenya Wildlife Services. Please share with interested undergraduate and graduate students. The field school provides a distinctive opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in field work methodologies and research on some of Kenya's exquisite wildlife including a variety of Old World primates. One site we will visit is the Tana River Primate National Reserve where students will conduct field work and observe yellow baboons, vervet monkeys, as well as two endemic and endangered species, the Tana River mangabey and the Tana River red colobus. We will also spend time on the Laikipia Plateau of central Kenya. At the different sites where we camp, students will receive lectures, complete readings and have discussions from the field school directors as well as a wide range of consultants to the program from places like the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, the African Wildlife Foundation, and Princeton University's Mpala Research Station. In addition, we will stay on Mugie Ranch where we are conducting a systematic vegetation study. We also have the opportunity to visit the rhino sanctuary and are privy to the data collection lab. We will observe radio-collared lions and all the other wildlife of the savanna ecosystem. Students will also do field work all in the course of a day, making the field school worth 6 academic credits. To obtain more information about this program, contact Dr. Jack Harris, Professor of Anthropology, Rutgers University (jwharris@rci.rutgers.edu) or me (wieczkja@buffalostate.edu). You can also visit the Rutgers Study Abroad web site. Posted: 2/18/09.

International Polar Field School in Svalbard: An Interdisciplinary Experience in Polar Studies. Dates: June 15- July 3, 2009. Location: University Centre in Svalbard, Svalbard, Norway. Websites: http://arcticportal.org/apecs/svalbard2009 and Course description and information about UNIS. In celebration of the International Polar Year (2007-09), this 3-week course will focus on environmental change in the Arctic and Antarctic through a series of lectures and field excursions in Svalbard, Norway. The course will cover topics on Glaciology, Geology, Meteorology, Oceanography, Marine/Terrestrial Biology, and the Human Dimension in Polar Regions. Applicants should be Undergraduates or Masters students, with a minimum of 1 year in physical/technical and/or natural sciences. Application deadline: March 27th, 2009. Posted: 2/16/09.

Summer Courses at the Oregon Institute of Marine Biology: Courses are designed for upper division undergraduates. Please pass this information along to any undergraduates who might be interested or the undergraduate biology advisor in your department. 8 week courses (June 22 - August 14, 2009) Invertebrate Zoology Instructor: Cynthia Trowbridge Marine Animal Adaptations Instructor: Patrick Baker Biology Of Fishes Instructor: Daryl Parkyn Marine Birds And Mammals Instructor: Jan Hodder and Doug Warrick 2 week courses: Coastal Biology July 6-9 and 13-16 Instructors: Stewart Schulz Experimental Design August 17 – 28 Instructor: Brian Bingham weekend workshops: Biological Illustration June 20-21 And 27-28 Instructor: Lee Braithwaite Biological Invasions July 11- 12 And 18 – 19 Instructor: James Carlton Symbiosis In The Marine Environment July 25 – 26 and August 1 – 2 Instructor: Chuck Wimpee Fellowships and dormitory housing are available. Further details on the Oregon Institute of Marine Biology website. Posted: 1/22/09.

Mathematics and Field Ecology Summer Program: 15 June - 31 July for Undergraduate and Graduate Students. Kellogg Biological Station (KBS), Michigan State University will once again host the summer program known as ELME, Enhancing Linkages between Mathematics and Ecology. ELME is a course-work based research experience designed for students with an interest in applying mathematics to questions in ecology and evolution. The program is designed for students both with and without formal training in mathematics. Participants in the full program take 3 one-week math courses on topics that are relevant to ecology/evolution and then apply these tools in a four-week field ecology/evolution course. Students can enroll in a subset of the ELME courses if that better fits their needs and schedules. Mathematics 1-week courses: Introduction to Theoretical Population Biology - MTH 490.431 June 15 - June 19; Game Theory and Adaptive Dynamcis- MTH 490.432 June 22 - June 26; Maximum Likelihood Analysis in Ecology - MTH 490.433 June 29 - July 3. Ecology 4-week course: Field Ecology and Evolution - ZOL/PLB 440 July 6 – July 31. Undergraduate Fellowships (generous stipend, plus housing, travel, and tuition) are available for students enrolling in the full ELME program. Graduate scholarships are available for tuition and housing. See the link above for more information and to apply. Deadline: March 2, 2009. Posted: 1/21/09.

Michigan State University: Kellogg Biological Station (KBS) invites undergraduates to apply to our 2009 ROKS (Residential Opportunities at Kellogg Station) Fall Study Away program. Each fall, 12 students join the KBS research community to Learn and Intern on the shores of beautiful Gull Lake. ROKS combines undergraduate course work in natural and social science, mentored internships, seminars and discussions with leading scientists, and the opportunity to live at KBS--MSU's largest off-campus research and education facility. Freshmen, sophomores, and juniors are eligible to apply. All participants receive a $2000 scholarship to help with housing costs, and additional scholarship funds are available in cases of strong financial need. For more information and to apply, visit the site linked above. There are only SIX spots left for Fall 2009! Applying early is strongly encouraged. Posted: 1/20/09.

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