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Alabama A&M University: We are offering a NSF sponsored Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program that will focus on natural resource and environmental issues. The program will last from June 7 to July 23, 2010. Each student will participate in projects with various researchers from the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences (NRES) and other entities with focuses on areas including forestry and plant sciences, insects and wildlife ecology, molecular biology and genetics, soil mineralogy and biogeochemistry, hydrology and environmental monitoring, and 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 detailed information on the summer 2010 research projects, available mentors, application form, and application process, please visit our REU website or contact Dr. Elica Moss at elica.moss@aamu.edu, Ph: 256-372-8219. Deadline: March 19, 2010. Posted: 2/25/10.

Auburn University: One Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) position is available in Dr. Alan Wilson's lab for summer 2010 to study aquatic community ecology. The REU student will join a dynamic lab of graduate, undergraduate, and high school students where they will develop an independent research project, within the context of an existing NSF-funded project, to further our understanding of the ecological mechanisms mediating zooplankton-phytoplankton interactions. Auburn University offers vast field and laboratory resources enabling the REU student to consider a variety of scientific approaches, including whole-pond and mesocosm field experiments and small-scale lab studies. Although a majority of the student's time will be spent in and around Auburn, Alabama, travel opportunities throughout the Southeast and Midwest may be available pending the interests of the student. The ideal candidate will be hard-working, honest, enjoy teamwork, and interested in pursuing a career in science. Starting dates are flexible, but preference will be given to a student available June to August 2010. The REU student will earn a stipend of $400/week for 10 weeks and receive additional support for lodging, travel expenses, and their research. The REU student will be invited to attend the Ecological Society of America's annual meeting in Pittsburgh this August with our lab. Interested students are encouraged to apply online by 15 April 2010 for full consideration. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and currently enrolled as a freshman, sophomore, or junior. If you have questions, please contact Dr. Alan Wilson, Fisheries and Allied Aquacultures, Auburn University, 203 Swingle Hall, Auburn, Alabama 36849. wilson@auburn.edu, 334.246.1120. Posted: 3/25/10.

Chicago Botanic Garden and Northwestern University: Research Experience for Undergraduates, Summer 2010, Plant Biology and Conservation: From Genes to Ecosystems. We are pleased to invite applications from undergraduate students to participate in a summer Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program in plant conservation and biology, supported by NSF. Nine 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: molecular and quantitative genetics, pollination biology, biogeochemistry, and restoration ecology. 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 24 to July 31, 2010 (10 weeks). Eligibility: Undergraduate freshmen, sophomores, juniors or seniors graduating in December 2010 are welcome to apply. We particularly 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 February 26, 2010. For more information, contact Dr. Nyree Zerega (nzerega@chicagobotanic.org) or Dr. Louise Egerton-Warburton (lwarburton@chicagobotanic.org). Posted: 1/12/10.

Clean Air - Cool Planet: The highly competitive CA-CP Climate Fellowship program pairs outstanding students with challenging real-world opportunities to propel society toward a low-carbon future. Highly qualified graduate and undergraduate students in fields ranging from the humanities to environmental policy or economics to statistics, engineering, physical or biological sciences complete important, challenging, and in-depth projects. Applications will be accepted until January 31st, 2010. Placements run for ten weeks, between May and August, 2010, and include a $5000 stipend. For more information, see Climate Fellowships for Summer, 2010. Posted: 12/23/09.

Colorado State University: We seek a motivated undergraduate student to implement an independent research project examining the belowground responses of native prairie vegetation due to experimental manipulations of rainfall. Research will involve a combination of lab and field experiments, and will include travel to two grassland study sites. Research sites located at the Shortgrass Steppe Long Term Ecological Research (LTER) site near Ft. Collins, CO, and the mixed grass prairie near Hays, KS. REU student will work closely with a PhD student to develop their research project. Additional information on the REU program. Research will occur mid-late May- early August 2010. Dates somewhat flexible, but experience involves at least 10 weeks of full time (40-45 hours/week) work. Stipend of $1,200 per month plus allowance for travel to field sites and a professional meeting to present research are included. Housing may be available at the Shortgrass Steppe LTER site, or we can help you find housing in Fort Collins, CO. For more information or to apply, contact Kerry Byrne ( kmbyrne@rams.colostate.edu). To apply, please send a CV or resume with contact information for 2 references, a one page letter of interest, a copy of your most current transcript (unofficial is fine). Posted: 4/6/10.

Colorado State University: We seek two undergraduates to participate in NSF-sponsored Research Experiences for Undergraduate opportunities in Yellowstone National Park during summer 2010 with our research team from CSU. We are conducting research on the effects of the reintroduction of wolves on riparian willow communities in Yellowstone. Specifically, our larger project focuses on the interacting effects of elk and bison herbivory and water availability on willow growth and establishment. Students will work with a graduate student and PIs to develop and complete independent research projects over a 10 week period starting in mid May. Prior to the field season, undergraduates will communicate with the research team to explore research ideas and begin project development. Potential topics include willow drought stress physiology, and patterns of seed dispersal and seedling establishment. Qualifications: Applicants must be enthusiastic, responsible, and self-sufficient. Students should have undergraduate coursework in biology, ecology, environmental sciences or related fields, and be interested in pursuing a career in the sciences. Because research sites are located between 0.5 and 5 miles from park roads, applicants must be comfortable hiking distances up to 10 miles a day in various weather conditions. Yellowstone is bear country; bear safety training will be provided and grizzly encounters are rare, but conducting research in this environment requires special awareness of one’s surroundings. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and be enrolled in a college or university in fall 2010 (spring 2010 graduates are ineligible). A valid U.S. driver’s license and a clean driving record are required. Students will receive a $400/week stipend for 10 weeks, and shared housing will be provided in Gardiner, MT. Research costs will be covered by the project, and additional support will be provided for travel to Montana. To apply: Please submit a one-page letter outlining your interest and suitability for the position, a resume or cv, and contact information for 2-3 professional references by email to Kristin Marshall (kmarsh2@lamar.colostate.edu). Be sure to include your availability for a 10 week period beginning on or around May 17, relevant coursework and any previous research experience. Posted: 4/6/10.

Colorado State University: The SGS-LTER is an ecological research project funded by the National Science Foundation and composed of over 20 scientists and students studying the ecological dynamics of the shortgrass steppe in Colorado. Our research site is located 40 km northwest of Fort Collins in the Pawnee National Grassland. Current research includes experiments on plant and animal populations, plant/animal interactions, biogeochemical interactions, disturbance dynamics, water and energy dynamics, and paleoecology. The REU program is a twelve week process (mid- to late May through mid- to late August) of learning about ecology and gaining experience in conducting ecological research. Selected individuals will work with scientists from the SGS-LTER group and develop individual research projects that fit into the larger SGS-LTER research program. Past projects include: refugia effects of prickly pear cactus, dendrochronological history of limber pine and ponderosa pine, effects of fire on vegetation. This award includes a $250 to $300/week stipend and covers all research related costs. More details. To apply for the SGS-LTER Research Experience for Undergraduates program please send a resume, statement of research interests (not to exceed 2 pages), a copy of your most current transcript, and three letters of recommendation (may be sent via e-mail) to: Dr. Sallie Sprague, SGS-LTER Project Manager, 1499 Campus Delivery, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1499. (970) 491-2366, sallie.sprague@colostate.edu. Posted: 2/4/10.

Florida State University: Summer 2010: A full-time summer Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) position is available for studying carnivorous pitcher plants and their contained communities with Dr. T. Miller's lab. This is a unique funded opportunity to conduct independent research in plant and/or community ecology. Research involves a combination of field, greenhouse, and lab experiments with pitcher plants and the small communities of invertebrates and microorganisms that live inside their leaves. Possible topics for REU independent projects include studying what maintains (or prevents) hybrid plants from occurring in the wild, among-population genetic variation in pitcher plants, or work on the evolution of microorganisms inside the leaves. Dates somewhat flexible, but experience involves at least 10 weeks full time between May and August. I am looking for a candidate with a strong academic record and proven interest in ecology, evolution, or conservation biology. Applications will be taken on a rolling basis until the position is filled. If you have any interest, contact T. Miller (miller@bio.fsu.edu). Posted: 3/23/10.

Florida State University: Undergraduate Research Fellowship in Plant-Insect Interactions summer 2010. Full-time summer Research Experience for Undergraduates (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. Likely topics for REU independent projects include the evolution of induced resistance to herbivory and the effect of spatial distributions of damage on plant responses. Research will occur May-September 2010. 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. This research is a collaboration between Stacey Halpern (Pacific University), Nora Underwood (FSU), and Brian Inouye (FSUy). Applications are due Feb 15. Please see full ad at http://bio.fsu.edu/~nunderwood/homepage/ for additional information. We strongly encourage applications from women, students of color, first generation college students, and other underrepresented groups, and are partnering with SEEDS (a program of the Ecological Society of America) to further support underrepresented students who work with us. Posted: 1/15/10.

Fordham University: The Louis Calder Center - Biological Field Station, 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 31 through August 21, 2010. - Students work and live at our field station, which is equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories, which are in close proximity to forest, field and aquatic ecosystems. Student projects may include collaborations with scientists at the Wildlife Conservation Society and the New York Botanical Garden. Due to our proximity to New York City, many student projects examine the effects of urbanization on evolution, populations, communities, and ecosystems. - This year we will offer approximately ten awards to qualified undergraduates interested in conducting independent research. - Stipends of $6,000 plus a travel reimbursement will be awarded to successful applicants, and rent at the field station is free. - Funds are available to support research and travel to attend a scientific conference. A sample of some of the potential student projects for 2010 includes: a.. Searching for the lost pollinators of New York City b.. Impact of an invasive species on local mosquito species c.. Evolutionary genetics and genomics of bacteria d.. Hoot Song Function in the Stripe-throated Wren e.. Impact of an invasive species on local mosquito species f.. Molecular quantification of tick pathogens and their activity g.. Benthic algae in transported organic matter in small streams h.. Genetics of evolutionary changes in flowering time i.. The food web of temporary forest ponds j.. The evolution of transposable elements in bacterial pathogens k.. Effects of an invasive alga on nutrient dynamics in a recreational lake l.. Biological control of arthropods that transmit disease 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. - Applications can be obtained by contacting us by email: REUatCalder@fordham.edu, or by phone: 914-273-3078, ext. 10. - For details on the program and a list of research areas available this summer for students, see: www.fordham.edu/REUatCalder. Applications are due February 19, 2010. Posted: 1/14/10.

Georgia Tech: We will be hosting 9 NSF-REU participants this summer at Georgia Tech focusing loosely on the theme of Aquatic Chemical Ecology. See our REU program website for program details, application process, and contact information. The application deadline is February 15, 2010. At that time we will work with faculty mentors to select participants, and will offer students places in the program starting mid-February. The full-time, 10-week program will start in late May and run until the end of 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. Students can go to our website to get more information and to apply. 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 REU program in Ocean Sciences or unless they will graduate before this summer. We are particularly interested in increasing our proportion of minority students and in reaching students at non-PhD granting universities. As in the first 5 years of our REU program, the research theme of Aquatic Chemical Ecology is broadly interpreted. 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. Posted: 12/3/09, revised: 2/8/10.

Harvard Forest: we offer 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 2010. 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. 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 2010 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. Students are paid a stipend of $5520 for the 12 week session which runs from May 24 through August 13, 2010. 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 Summer Research Program in Ecology for our on-line application. Applications are due February 5, 2010. Posted: 12/1/09.

Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest: Summer Research Experience: Investigating and Communicating Change in Ecosystems. Eleven undergraduates will live and work at the Hubbard Brook 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 projects will be conducted under the supervision of research mentors active in research at the Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest/LTER site. Dates: June 1 through August 10, 2010 (10 weeks). Eligibility: Undergraduate freshmen, sophomores, juniors, or first semester seniors. Must be citizens or permanent residents of the U.S. or its possessions. Stipend: $4,500, plus meal-plan allowance and free housing. Potential projects: Animal Ecology o The effects of moose on bird habitat o Population dynamics of vertebrates. Biogeochemistry o Examining the role of low order streams in supplying carbon dioxide to the atmosphere o The influence of climate on the fate of nitrogen in forest soils. o Forest successional dynamics and biogeochemistry on contrasting sites Hydrology and Soils o Exploring hydrologic dynamics with water isotope monitoring Forest Vegetation and Carbon Cycling o Reconstructing forest history o Tree physiology and forest community dynamics o Tree population ecology o Investigating plant strategies for nutrient uptake. Visit www.hubbardbrookreu.org for further information and application instructions. Deadline: February 5, 2010. Posted: 12/21/09.

Huyck Preserve and Biological Research Station: we offer four eight-week Odum Internship in Field Ecology positions for undergrads. The internships start around June 21st and go through mid-August. Applications are due March 8th by email. Information and applications are on our webiste: www.huyckpreserve.org. Posted: 2/22/10.

Kansas State University: The Research Experiences for Undergraduates program in the Division of Biology at is accepting applications for this summer's 10-week program. We're pleased to again offer opportunities for research in ecology, evolutionary biology, and genomics at K-State (Manhattan, KS) and Konza Prairie Biological Station. For full details, please visit: http://www.k-state.edu/reu/. Deadline: March 1. Posted: 1/20/10.

Kellogg Biological Station: many positions this summer for undergraduates to participate in ecological research. KBS REU (Research Experiences for Undergraduates) Opportunities for 2010 include: --Four Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center REUs (Department of Energy) * Global Warming and Biofuel Crop Performance * Diversity and Productivity of Alternative Biofuel Crops * Invertebrate Populations in Miscanthus and Switchgrass fields * Biofuel Cropping System Implications for Water Quantity and Quality. --Five REUs at the KBS Long Term Ecological Research Site (NSF) * Ecological Genetics of Rapid Weed Evolution * Plant-Microbe Interactions and Biological Invasions * Phosphorus Retention in Freshwater Sediments * Modeling Complexity in Plankton Communities * Phytoplankton Community Ecology Under Global Change. Early Application is encouraged! Please visit the websites linked above for details of the projects and application instructions. Undergraduates at KBS will be part of a lively research community. Students will receive training in the research process, and work closely with a mentor-scientist. All these programs include a PAID stipend, and room and board. Posted: 1/11/10.

Marine Biological Laboratory: The MBL Ecosystems Center is seeking undergraduate applicants for summer research fellowships (REU) in watershed and estuarine ecosystems in Massachusetts. Fellowships are sponsored by the Plum Island Ecosystem Long-Term Ecological Research program. REU positions are available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents who are currently enrolled as undergraduates at U.S. colleges or universities (no graduating college seniors). REU participants are expected to start the program in early June and work full-time for 10-12 weeks during the summer of 2010. Successful candidates will conduct independent research projects that are linked to larger studies of watersheds, streams, estuary, marshes, or tidal creeks. In addition, participants are expected to assist principal investigators, research assistants, and graduate students with ongoing projects and gain experience in a variety of research areas related to coastal science. REU participants are expected to collect and analyze data and present their research results in oral presentations and in poster and written formats by the end of their fellowship. Qualifications: Applicants should have completed basic coursework in biology, chemistry and ideally ecology or environmental science. Undergraduates with strong backgrounds in mathematics, computer science, statistics or physics are strongly encouraged to apply. Attention to detail, the ability to work as a member of a team, and a desire to learn new laboratory and field techniques are essential. Applicants must be willing to conduct moderately strenuous fieldwork in marine environments, primarily intertidal setting under variable weather conditions. Successful candidates will be expected to spend extended time at the field site in Plum Island Sound (3 hours from Woods Hole). Required Documents: Resume/CV, Cover Letter, Unoffical Transcripts. Apply online at: https://mbl.simplehire.com. Posted: 5/6/10.

Marine Biological Laboratory: Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU)- Arctic. The Ecosystems Center of the is seeking undergraduate applicants for several Arctic research projects. 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). Successful candidates will participate in field research on either terrestrial or aquatic ecosystems in the Toolik Lake Research Natural Area on the North Slope of Alaska. 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 2010 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 Documents: Resume/CV, Cover Letter. Please do not ask referees to send unsolicited letters. These will be requested from the final candidates only. Unofficial transcripts are required, but may be uploaded with your application package or faxed to the Human Resources Office, 508-289-7931. If faxing, please reference this posting. Apply online at: https://mbl.simplehire.edu. Posted: 2/17/10.

Miami University: We are pleased to announce the 2010 Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Program Ecology of Human-Dominated Landscapes, funded by the National Science Foundation and Miami University. This is an exciting paid summer research opportunity for undergraduate students. A flyer is attached that you can share with students. For your information, here are a few details regarding our program: • 8 positions at our REU site • 10 weeks between May 24 and August 6, 2010. This REU site focuses on collaborative research in ecology focused on human-dominated landscapes. Students will be immersed in their own research projects, while being part of a larger team of students and faculty. Each student will receive: • $4200 stipend • Free housing • Funds for travel to and from Miami University in Oxford, OH • Funds to use for their research • 12 credit hours, tuition-free and transferable. We desire undergraduates with interest in ecology and environmental science from any institution. Prior coursework in ecology and/or environmental science is recommended and we prefer students who are entering their junior or senior years. Students must be enrolled as an undergraduate student the following fall semester to qualify for our program. Students must also be US citizens or permanent residents. Miami University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women and minorities are strongly encouraged to apply. Applications will be reviewed starting February 1, 2010. For more information, please contact Zachary Callahan at ecoreu@muohio.edu or visit http://www.muohio.edu/ecoreu. Posted: 1/20/10.

Mississippi State University: An 10 week summer REU position is available for a student interested in applying general ecological theory to the dynamics and succession of soil bacterial communities (16S rRNA gene) during soil and ecosystem development. A number of potential opportunities exist that can be modified in ways to fit with a student's interests, background, & career goals. One example would to assess how 16S rRNA genes closely related to known bacterial nitrogen fixers change during soil and ecosystem development. The position is available beginning in May, 2010. Students should send a resume and statement of interest to Mark A. Williams (mw452@msstate.edu). Posted: 4/6/10.

Oregon State University: we are offering a competitive opportunity for a handful of motivated college students to participate this summer in an NSF-funded Research Experience for Undergraduate (REU) in Pollination Biology. To learn more about this opportunity, visit http://cropandsoil.oregonstate.edu/REU. Deadline: 3/15/10. Posted: 2/4/10.

Organization for Tropical Studies: REU Program in Costa Rica. Summer 2010: Jun. 13 - Aug. 6. Application Deadline: January 31, 2010. The OTS Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) was designed for advanced biology students interested in conducting field research under the supervision of an experienced tropical ecologist. OTS will support ten undergraduates, selected through a competitive application process, for an eight-week research program at the world-renowned La Selva Biological Station in the Caribbean lowlands of Costa Rica. In collaboration with a research mentor, students will design, conduct, and present field research projects at La Selva. The program will provide students with a first-hand look at the challenges and rewards of tropical field research. Students will participate in a rich academic field environment, including research presentations, discussions, an ethics component focusing on issues in tropical biology and conservation. In addition, participants will have access to the social, cultural, and recreational activities of the rural communities surrounding La Selva. Visit the REU website for more details. Posted: 1/22/10.

Radford University: A Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) position is available for summer 2010 to study disease ecology in aquatic freshwater communities with Drs. Jeremy Wojdak (Radford University) and Lisa Belden (Virginia Tech). The REU student will join a lab of graduate and undergraduate students working on an NSF-funded project focused on understanding the biotic factors that control trematode parasite transmission. The trematode we study first infects an aquatic snail host, then snails and amphibians as secondary intermediate hosts, and finally infects muskrats (among other organisms) as its definitive host. Thus, the REU student will gain experience with a number of diverse taxa. The student will work as part of our team at field sites and conducting mesocosm field experiments and lab studies, and will also be expected to develop his/her own independent research project. The ideal candidate will be hard-working, dedicated, careful, work well in a team setting, and be interested in pursuing a career in science. The start date is flexible, but preference will be given to a student available mid-May through August 2010. The REU student will earn a stipend of $400/week for 12 weeks and receive additional support for lodging ($1000), travel expenses ($500), and their research. The REU student will be invited to attend the Ecological Society of America's annual meeting in 2010 (and/or 2011) with our group. Interested students are encouraged to apply by 20 April 2010, but applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and be currently enrolled in a college or university (i.e. recent graduates are ineligible). Students from groups typically underrepresented in the sciences and students from smaller institutions with limited research opportunities are especially encouraged to apply. Applications should be sent to Jeremy M. Wojdak (jmwojdak@radford.edu) and should include: unofficial copy of transcripts, contact information for two academic references, CV / resume, and a one page statement that describes your interest in the REU position, academic goals, and previous research experience (if any). Please confirm in your statement that you meet each eligibility requirement above (e.g., citizenship, enrolled in college, available for 10-12 weeks during the summer). Posted: 3/31/10.

Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory: The RMBL is now accepting student applications for our Educational Programs: REU/Advanced Independent Research and Independent Research with a Course: Methods in Field Ecology, Research Training in Wildlife Biology, or Research Training in Field Botany. We have scholarships, we accommodate senior thesis students, and we strongly encourage applicants from under-represented groups. The deadline for REU and Scholarship applications is February 15, 2010. All information is available at www.rmbl.org/education. Posted: 1/20/10.

St. Olaf College: REU: From Genes to Ecosystems: Environmental Science in a Changing World June 1 – August 6, 2010. Application deadline: April 16th, 2010. St. Olaf College is excited to offer an NSF-REU (Research Experience for Undergraduates) opportunity for up to 10 undergraduate students to conduct faculty-mentored research on a wide range of environmental science projects. Any undergraduate interested in biology, chemistry, or environmental science may apply, including students enrolled in Tribal Colleges or 2-year Community Colleges. Faculty-mentored projects range from conservation genetics of fish and freshwater turtles to green chemistry, paleoecological study of climate change, and food web studies in either prairie or stream ecosystems. Students involved in the St. Olaf REU program will receive the intensive one-on-one mentoring of a small, liberal arts college while having access to state-of-the-art technology typically found at large research universities. Several of the proposed projects will utilize stable isotope analysis and students will gain valuable experience using our newly acquired stable isotope ratio mass spectrometer. The program will provide each student $4600 for the 10-week program, including free housing on campus, and costs for travel to/from St. Olaf at the beginning/end of the program. For full details and to apply, please visit: http://www.stolaf.edu/depts/biology/reu/. St. Olaf College is a liberal-arts college located approximately 45 minutes south of Minneapolis/St. Paul. Students will have access to natural lands (restored and remnant ecosystems) at St. Olaf and Carleton Colleges, and the St. Olaf College Field Station at Weaver Dunes - a Nature Conservancy Field Site. These sites include a unique series of wetland, forest, and prairie restoration sites that provide a field laboratory for research questions ranging from soil biogeochemistry to population dynamics of small mammals to genetics and evolutionary ecology of trees and reptiles. Posted: 4/12/10.

Syracuse University: Undergraduate Summer Research Position: Plant Community Ecology, northern England, May 17 - Aug. 6, 2010 (12 wks). The lab of Jason Fridley is seeking a highly motivated undergraduate student interested in gaining research experience in field ecology as part of a research team investigating the effects of climate change on species-rich grasslands. The Buxton Climate Change Impacts study is a long-term experimental manipulation of temperature and rainfall in a species-rich limestone grassland in Derbyshire, England. The student will spend 6 weeks conducting field research at the main climate experiment and in the nearby countryside and 6 weeks working in the Fridley lab at Syracuse University (2 weeks before, 4 weeks after fieldwork). The undergraduate project will involve vegetation and soil surveys that contribute to ongoing research projects (including sensor-based environmental monitoring of soil properties and the assessment of genotypic variation in select plant populations) with considerable opportunities for independent research. Travel to and housing in the UK will be funded in addition to a 12-wk stipend of $500/wk. Eligibility: Relevant field experience and ecology-related coursework is desirable but not required. The student must be a U.S. citizen and enrolled in an accredited undergraduate college degree program. Students graduating in spring 2010 are ineligible. A valid U.S. passport is required. Interested applicants should send a statement of interest, resume, unofficial transcript, one letter of recommendation, and contact information for two additional references. The statement of interest should be less than 500 words and include the following information: (i) professional goals, (ii) interest in position, and (iii) relevant experience. Send application materials in one PDF or .doc file to Dr. Jason Fridley (fridley@syr.edu). The letter of recommendation should be e-mailed directly from the recommender with the applicants name in the subject line. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applications will be accepted through April 15, 2010. Posted: 3/31/10.

USDA Agricultural Research Service: The Fort Keogh Livestock and Range Research Laboratory in Miles City, Montana is advertising a summer internship as a Soil Ecologist for a college student. The job pays well and provides the intern with the opportunity to acquire hands-on work experience and learn about employment opportunities with the USDA's dedicated research unit the Agricultural Research Service (ARS). The application deadline is April 2, 2010. See the full announcement (pdf) for details. Posted: 2/22/10.

USDA Forest Service: Biological Science/Botany Field Technician Student Position, Fire Ecology Studies. Student will work as a field technician collecting vegetation data in a variety of habitats in central Oregon. Limited travel to other parts of Oregon and California may be required. This is primarily a field position, and duties include collecting vegetation data and samples, keying unknown species, and installing and maintaining research plots. Minimum Qualifications: The position requires a strong interest in botany and ecology, with coursework in plant taxonomy and the ability to use a key to identify plants to species. Must be able to work with a small field crew in a variety of physical conditions. Must be a student in good standing either accepted into a degree-seeking program, or currently enrolled at least half time. Must have a valid driver’s license. Preferred Qualifications Familiarity with vegetation of central Oregon. Knowledge of the principles and techniques of field ecology. Knowledge of vegetation sampling techniques. Comfort and/or experience using a PDA for direct field data entry. Experience using Trimble GPS units. Pay: GS-4 ($13.41/hour). A higher GS level may be considered for highly qualified students. Dates: May thru September 2010. Dates are flexible around student schedules. Location: Bend, OR. Housing not provided. Application: please send resume, cover letter, transcripts, and references to: Elizabeth Johnson (elizabethjohnson@fs.fed.us). For additional information email or call Elizabeth Johnson (541-383-5427). Posted: 3/8/10.

US Fish and Wildlife Service: The South Texas Refuge Complex has 4 3-month seasonal positions open with 3 vacancies at the Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge and one position at Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge. The positions are as follow: 1) Biological Science Technician (Invasive Plants) – we are seeking 3 applicants to assist with a variety of invasive plant species mapping, control, and monitoring on the Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge. Major duties will include implementing control measure directly through cutting vegetation with hand tools, applying herbicide with various types of spray equipment including back-pack sprayers and ATV mounted sprayers, conducing surveys, and recording occurrences using paper forms and handheld GPS units. Proficiency in the use of maps, GPS units, and Microsoft Excel is beneficial. A valid State driver’s license and the ability to obtain a Texas Pesticide Applicators License upon employment is required. The Biological Science Technician positions are being hired through the Student Temporary Employment Program (STEP) and the applicant must be enrolled, at least part time, in a degree seeking program through a college or university at the time of employment. Internship credits offered during the time of employment through a university qualifies for being enrolled at least part time, as well as enrollment for the following Fall 2010 semester. Graduating seniors, not receiving internship credits or enrolling for graduate school for the Fall 2010 semester, are not eligible. The position will be filled at a GS-4 level for those who have not yet attained their Bachelor of Science degree/diploma and at the GS-5 level for those who have their degree in-hand but are enrolling this coming fall for graduate school. The refuge will provide on site accommodations in 32’ travel trailers and all hookups (electric, water, propane) for those hired. Start and end dates are flexible based on students’ availability. The position will last for 3 months during the summer. To apply, please send resume, 3 references, and college transcripts to kimberly_wahl@fws.gov by April 22, 2010. 2) Biological Science Technician (Invasive Species) – we are seeking 1 applicant to assist with an invasive species mapping, monitoring, and control program at Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge. Major duties will include mapping and monitoring of invasive plant populations and collecting survey data for Nilgai antelope and feral pigs on the three Refuge units, totaling 84,000 acres. A valid State driver’s license is required. The Biological Science Technician position is being hired through the Student Temporary Employment Program (STEP) and the applicant must be enrolled, at least part time, in a degree seeking program through a college or university at the time of employment. Internship credits offered during the time of employment through a university qualifies for being enrolled at least part time, was well as enrollment for the following Fall 2010 semester. Graduating seniors, not receiving internship credits or enrolling for graduate school for the Fall 2010 semester, are not eligible. The position will be filled at a GS-4 level. The refuge will provide on-site housing. Start and end dates are flexible based on student’s availability. The position will last for 3 months during the summer. To apply, please send resume, 3 references, and college transcripts to leo_gustafson@fws.gov by May 3, 2010. Posted: 4/20/10.

University of Akron: We invite undergraduate students to participate in a summer 2010 Research Experience 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. Review of applications will begin February 16, 2009. For more information, and an application: visit us at the link above or contact the Program Director, Dr. Randy Mitchell (330-972-5122 or rjm2@uakron.edu). Posted: 1/12/10.

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 involve quantifying vegetation dynamics, greenhouse gas emissions, and soil hydrology, while developing and carrying out 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 campus of the University of Alaska-Fairbanks 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 must apply on-line through https:/uakjobs.com. You need to submit a cover letter that explains why you are interested in the program and how it fits into your long-term education and career goals. In this letter, also describe your background and include anything that you think would convince us that you are the most appropriate person for this position. You must also submit a C.V. or Resume and the names, telephone numbers, and email addresses of three professional references. For additional questions, please contact the supervisor of this project, Dr. Merritt Turetsky (mrt@uoguelph.ca). Posted: 3/31/10.

University of Arizona: We will be holding a 10-week Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program this summer in environmental and Earth system sciences at Biosphere 2. Students in their Sophomore or Junior years from a wide range of disciplines and interests including biology, ecology, plant sciences, hydrology, soil science, geology, atmospheric science, mathematics, physics, chemistry, or computer science are encouraged to apply. Only U.S. citizens or permanent residents are eligible for this NSF funded program. Students in the REU program will conduct research in the Earth system and environmental sciences that examines some facet of soil-water-atmosphere-plant interactions. Additionally, some REU projects will be conducted in partnership with the southwestern Critical Zone Observatory. Applications are due April 5 2010. Posted: 3/12/10, revised: 3/19/10.

University of Arkansas: REU Summer Research Program in the Arkansas Ozarks: Assessment and Sustainable Management of Ecosystem Services. 10-week summer program, 31 May to 6 August 2010, 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 a wide range of projects from water quality to chemical ecology to biological anthropology to ecology of birds 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, as well as a $400 weekly stipend and a travel allowance. Detailed Program Information: http://www.ecoreu.uark.edu/ Applications due: March 15, 2010. Questions about this program can be directed to Dr. Michelle Evans-White (mevanswh@uark.edu) or Dr. Kimberly Smith (kgsmith@uark.edu). Posted: 2/1/10.

University of California Santa Barbara: The research group of Jonathan Levine 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. He or she will set up experiments and use mathematical techniques to examine the influence of community size and demographic stochasticity on the coexistence of competitors. Students interested in working with statistical models of plant community dynamics will have the opportunity to visit the University of Washington, and work with Dr. Janneke HilleRisLambers, a collaborator on the project. 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. The position is 10-12 weeks and pays a $5500 stipend, though the start and end date are flexible. The REU will be responsible for their living accommodations. To apply, please email a cover letter, resume (with GPA), and contact information for two references to Dr. Ben Gilbert at bgilbert@msi.ucsb.edu by May 26th, 2010. Dr. Gilbert is also the contact person for any questions about the position. The student must be returning to school in the fall to be eligible. Posted: 5/13/10.

University of Illinois Springfield: we are offering undergraduates the opportunity to learn research techniques in restoration ecology along with Ph.D. scientists at the Therkildsen Field Station at Emiquon. The Emiquon Preserve, a project of The Nature Conservancy, is one of the largest wetland restoration sites in the US. Any undergraduate interested in biology, chemistry, or environmental science may apply. Pending NSF funding, ten undergraduate students, including up to five from community colleges, will be selected for this 10-week research project on site for the summer of 2010. The application deadline is March 15. Application information and forms may be found at http://www.uis.edu/emiquon/research/reu.html. Posted: 2/22/10.

University of Minnesota: The Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve (formerly Cedar Creek Natural History Area) has opportunities for students to work as Research Interns in two types of positions; 1) Plant community ecology and 2) Wildlife biology. Most positions run from June through August, but some interns are needed as early as March and some are needed through December. Your educational institution may be able to approve this internship,with an appropriate independent project, for any field biology requirement of your major. Typical work days are eight hours Monday through Friday, however some projects require weekend and evening work. If you are an undergraduate or a newly graduated student with a background or interest in biology, ecology, environmental science, botany, environmental education, wildlife biology, or related field we encourage you to apply. Below are brief descriptions of the two types of positions available: 1) Plant Community Ecology: We have three large scale projects that require most of our intern resources throughout the summer. Our BioCON experiment explores the ways in which plant communities respond to environmental changes such as increased nitrogen deposition, increased atmospheric CO2, decreased biodiversity, and altered precipitation patterns. In another large scale project we study how plant diversity affects the rates, dynamics, and stability of ecological processes at the population, community, and ecosystem levels in large, long term plots maintained at various levels of plant diversity. These plots host a number of sub-experiments looking at factors such as the effects of irrigation and increased temperatures. The third large scale experiment we will be surveying this year involves Oak Savannas. This study examines the effects of long-term prescribed burning treatments on vegetation structure and composition, productivity, and nutrient cycling in upland oak savanna and woodland vegetation. Throughout the summer we maintain and sample these experiments. 2) Wildlife Biology: This research will be looking at how harvesting resorted prairies for biofuel affects wildlife. The work will include wildlife surveys encompassing birds, small mammals, insects, reptiles, and amphibians. Bird survey duties will include identifying birds by sight and sound. Small mammal survey duties include operating Sherman live traps and species identification. Insect survey duties will include methods such as sweep netting and pitfall traps. Additional surveys will require plant identification skills. Duties may go beyond what is listed. The applicant must have a flexible schedule and be willing to work odd hours including weekends and holidays. The position will entail extensive travel throughout the western Minnesota prairie region and requires a valid driver's license. The starting date will be mid-March to mid-May. To apply for either of the above intern positions please visit http://www.cedarcreek.umn.edu/about/employment/internships/. The deadline for application submission is March 1st, 2010. Posted: 12/1/09.

University of North Carolina: NSF Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU), Summer 2010, Plant Virus Ecology. The Mitchell Lab (Department of Biology) is seeking one REU student to conduct independent research on the ecology of viruses that infect plants. The research will be part of our research project on the joint effects of global change and biological invasions on insect-vectored generalist pathogens. The REU student will work as part of a team including two Ph.D. students, a technician, and a postdoctoral researcher. The REU student will conduct greenhouse experiments to examine the factors that control (A) virus transmission, and (B) virus impacts on host fitness. The student will receive training in fundamental concepts and theories of the ecology of infectious disease. These concepts and theories are largely general across systems, spanning human and wildlife hosts as well as plants. Additionally, the REU student will further broaden their research experience by contributing to other research projects on the ecology of infectious disease (this will be a minority of the total time, and may occasionally be outdoors). The project could become a senior honors thesis. The ideal student will be preparing to enter a graduate (M.S. or Ph.D.) program in Ecology or a related field in Biology or Environmental Sciences. The full-time stipend is $450 per week, over 13 weeks ($5850 total). Alternatively, two half-time students (e.g. taking summer classes) could split the position. The position may begin as early as Monday 10 May 2010, and end as late as Friday 20 August 2010 (15 weeks total, allowing the student two weeks off). The student will be responsible for reporting the stipend as taxable income. The student must arrange his/her own housing. REU students must be enrolled in a degree program leading to a baccalaureate degree (i.e. to be eligible, you must not be graduating until at least Fall 2010). Additionally, REU students must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. To apply, please email Dr. Charles Mitchell at mitchell@bio.unc.edu: (A) a one page cover letter that explains why you are interested in the position, summarizes any relevant experience, and states whether you seek a full-time or half-time position, (B) a resume including your institution, major, expected graduation date, relevant courses, GPA, citizenship or permanent resident status, and work / research experience (if any), (C) the name and contact information for two people who can provide letters of reference. Letters will be requested only for semi-finalists, and official transcripts will be requested from finalists. To guarantee full consideration, apply by 31 March 2010. Posted: 3/19/10.

University of North Carolina: Estuarine and Coastal Barrier Ecology and Processes -Research Experience For Undergraduates at UNC's Institute of Marine Sciences. From May 23, 2010 to August 1, 2010 eight undergraduate students will each conduct their own independent research project under the supervision of a faculty member. The research projects will focus on challenges imposed by human activities on coastal environments including the effects of a US Marine Corps base and of military training on an estuary and a barrier island. All room and board expenses are covered by the program. Participants pay no fees or tuition charges. Each participant will receive stipend of $4500 + supplements to pay for housing and food + funds for travel to and from the program. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Application Deadline: February 12, 2010 For more information and application materials visit the link above. Posted: 1/25/10.

University of North Carolina at Charlotte: Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Summer Internship at the Center for Applied GIS (CAGIS), Department of Geography & Earth Sciences; fieldwork conducted in Sonoma County, California. We seek one undergraduate to participate in a landscape-scale field study to better understand scale-dependent effects of host density and species diversity on the severity of sudden oak death, a forest disease caused by the invasive plant pathogen Phytophthora ramorum. Epidemiological theory predicts that host density and species diversity affect disease dynamics of infectious diseases, yet few studies have tested these predictions in plant communities and/or examined scale-dependent effects of these processes in heterogeneous, natural ecosystems. Thus, this research project will provide the student the opportunity to gain experience working on a frontier of ecological knowledge, and acquire valuable interdisciplinary experience by interacting with landscape ecologists, plant pathologists, and natural resource managers. Under the supervision of Dr. Ross Meentemeyer and Ph.D. student Sarah Haas, the undergraduate will learn to: 1) collect ecological data on plant pathogens using advanced GPS survey technologies, 2) integrate field and spatial data in a GIS framework, and 3) use multivariate spatial statistical procedures for analysis. The position is full time for 3 months over summer 2010; start and end dates are approximately May 15 – August 15, subject to the student’s academic schedule. The first three weeks will consist of field work in forests in Sonoma County, California. The remaining time will be spent conducting laboratory processing and data analysis at CAGIS in Charlotte, NC. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and be currently enrolled as undergraduates; students who graduate in spring 2010 are eligible. Qualified students should have a strong academic background in ecology, biology, geography, forestry, plant pathology, or a related discipline. Preference will be given to students interested in pursuing a career in the sciences. For the field component of this research, students must be in good physical shape, be willing to work in remote field settings, and carry a heavy pack over rough/steep terrain for up to 8 hours a day (in potentially rainy weather). At the end of the summer, the student will make a poster presentation of their research that will be displayed within the Department of Geography & Earth Sciences at UNCC. The stipend is $1800/month. Lodging and airfare will be provided for field work in CA. TO APPLY: Please send the following to Sarah Haas electronically or by mail: (1) a 1-2 page letter describing your qualifications, research interests, and career goals; (2) a copy of (unofficial) transcripts; and (3) the names and contact information of two references. Submission of a resume is encouraged. Students from underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. Please write for clarifications or more information. Review of applications will begin on April 12, 2010. Sarah Haas (haaszoology@gmail.com), Center for Applied Geographic Information Science, 9201 University City Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28223. Posted: 3/18/10.

University of Notre Dame: One REU position is available in Dr. David Lodge’s Aquatic Ecology Laboratory for summer 2010. Research Overview: Biological invasions, which undoubtedly can cause extensive ecological and economic harm, can nonetheless be important natural experiments that allow us to test ecological and evolutionary questions. Our lab has used rusty crayfish as a model system to examine biological invasions. Rusty crayfish are native to streams in the Ohio River drainage, and have spread throughout large portions of the upper Midwest. Research for this summer will focus on comparing rusty crayfish populations in lakes in northern Wisconsin and Michigan and streams in the Ohio River basin to determine if there are morphological or genetic differences between populations. How these differences affect invasion success of rusty crayfish and ecosystem processes in lakes will be examined in subsequent summers. As part of an ongoing monitoring effort, we will also sample a number of lakes to determine abundances of rusty crayfish, other macroinvertebrates, macrophytes, and fish. The REU will design and complete an independent research project that fits into the goals of this research. Because we will be collecting crayfish from a many different populations, there is an opportunity for the student to design a project that compares some aspect of crayfish morphology, crayfish habitat use, or physicochemical characteristics of the habitat between different locations. In addition, the REU will participate in all aspects of field and lab work involved in the larger project. This will mainly consist of crayfish collection from lakes and streams using baited traps as well as hand collection while snorkeling or SCUBA diving. Strong candidates must be comfortable working in and around water. Boating and snorkeling/SCUBA experience is a plus. Questions about the project can be directed to Lindsey Sargent (lsargen1@nd.edu). This project is based at the University of Notre Dame Environmental Research Center in Land O Lakes, Wisconsin with possible travel to sites in the Ohio River drainage in Kentucky, Ohio, and Indiana. Some camping at research sites will likely be involved. Support: The award consists of a $4200 stipend and includes housing at the research station, lab supplies and travel (up to $500). Current sophomores and juniors, who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents, are eligible to apply; exceptionally well qualified freshmen may be considered. Please apply through the GLOBES website. The application materials include: (1) a cover letter stating your career goals and research interests; (2) a completed application form which can be found on the GLOBES website; (3), an official transcript, and (4) two recommendation letters from science faculty. The priority deadline is February 12th, 2010. We may consider later applications. Contact Ginna Anderson (g.anderso@nd.edu) with questions about applying. Posted: 2/5/10.

University of Notre Dame: One Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) position is available in Dr. Jeffrey Feder’s Evolutionary and Ecological Genetics Laboratory for summer 2010. The main project the REU will conduct will involve the monitoring of Rhagoletis pomonella (the apple maggot fly) in eclosion cages set up the summer of 2009 to determine the eclosion curves of different populations; this is with the hypothesis that the different host races will eclose at a time that briefly precedes the ripening of their respective host fruit. In addition to monitoring tents, the REU will also be involved in setting up an experiment to investigate host odor discrimination under natural conditions, driving up and down the Pacific Northwest to collect infested fruit, and then processing subsequent pupae for further experimentation. There also exists the opportunity for the REU to conduct an independent project involving questions related to the sympatric speciation of Rhagoletis pomonella. A valid driver’s license and passport is required, and the ability to identify trees from a moving vehicle is preferred (some training will be involved). Project Site Location: The Pacific Northwest, the lab is stationed in Vancouver, WA (20 minutes north of Portland, OR), but a lot of travelling up and down the I-5 corridor will be involved and trips to southern Oregon and Canada are likely. Please email ssim@nd.edu with questions. REU position is offered through the University of Notre Dame GLOBES program (see link for application materials and further information). Priority will be given to applications postmarked by Feb. 12, 2010. Eligible candidates must be current sophomores and juniors, who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Posted: 2/4/10.

University of Notre Dame: Two Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) positions are available in Dr. Jennifer Tank’s Stream Ecology Laboratory for summer 2010. 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, 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. These REU positions are offered through the University of Notre Dame GLOBES program, and application materials and further information can be found at: http://globes.nd.edu/reu2010.shtml. Priority will be given to applications postmarked by Feb. 12, 2010. Eligible candidates must be current sophomores and juniors, who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Posted: 2/3/10.

University of Notre Dame: June 1 – August 6, 2010. The GLOBES (Global Linkages of Biology, the Environment, and Society) program is pleased to sponsor a Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program during the summer of 2010. Funded by an NSF-IGERT training grant, GLOBES undergraduate research fellowships provide an exciting opportunity to be involved in cutting-edge research with the intent of providing real world solutions to environmental and human health issues. Research topics include climate change, emerging infectious disease, endangered species, speciation biology, agricultural stream ecology, and the science & policy of environmental change. The program consists of 10 weeks of full-time research, developed and mentored by GLOBES fellows and faculty. Applicants are encouraged to contact faculty and fellows about potential projects before submitting applications (see website linked above). Other activities include a weekly seminar program and journal club, regular research lab meetings, workshops on career choices in the sciences, research ethics, problem solving, and scientific writing. Lastly, participants have the opportunity to give formal presentations at the end of the summer REU Symposium. The award consists of a $4200 stipend and includes housing on campus, meals, lab supplies and travel (up to $500). Eligibility: Current sophomores and juniors, who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents, are eligible to apply; exceptionally well qualified freshmen may be considered. Priority will be given to applications postmarked by February 12, 2010. Application forms can be found at globes.nd.edu and must include (1) a cover letter stating your career goals and research interests; (2) a completed application form; (3), an official transcript, and (4) two recommendation letters from science faculty. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Preference will be given to sophomores and juniors whose primary interest is a research career, and who will likely pursue a Ph.D. Award notifications will occur in late March/early April. Send Application Materials to: Virginia Anderson, GLOBES Administrative Coordinator, University of Notre Dame, Department of Biological Sciences, Notre Dame, IN 46556-0369. Phone: (574) 631-3287, Email: g.anderso@nd.edu. If you need to express mail, only send via FedEx or UPS, not the US post office. Posted: 1/21/10.

University of Puerto Rico: Undergraduate Internship in Tropical Ecology and Evolution – Summer 2010. The Institute for Tropical Ecosystem Studies is accepting applications for the Summer 2010 internship in Tropical Ecology and Evolution at El Verde Field Station, Puerto Rico. The internship will run from May 30 to August 7th, 2010. Application deadline: 28 February 2010. The program will offer students the opportunity to have hands-on experience fields such as: - Stream Ecology. - Fish diversity - Behavioral and Ecology of Lizards - Plant Reproductive Ecology and Evolution - Aquatic Insect Ecology. Students will receive a stipend of $4,500 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 program is limited to undergraduate students pursuing a bachelor degree at a college or university during summer 2010 that are US citizen or permanent resident. Application materials and further information can be found at http://ites.upr.edu/REU/. Posted: 1/14/10.

University of Tennessee, Knoxville: The National Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS) is now taking applications for an 8-week long summer research program for undergraduates (REU) and veterinary students (REV) interested in work at the interface between biology and mathematics. The program will take place June 7-July 30, 2010. Undergraduate majors in biology, math, and related fields will live and work in teams with UTK faculty. Disease modeling, population dynamics, biodiversity and climate change are among this year’s research topics. Some teams will include veterinary students or high school teachers. Stipend and housing is provided along with some funding for travel support. To apply, follow the links above. Application Deadline: February 19, 2010. Posted: 1/22/10.

University of Texas at Austin: Four REU positions are available for summer 2010 for undergraduates interested in interdisciplinary research in plant biology and ecology. The positions are associated with a new research program focused on linking ecological, physiological, and genomic responses of switchgrass to predicted future drought conditions in the central Texas region. If you are accepted into the program you will spend the summer learning how to do research, participating in group research projects, designing your own short research project, and presenting your work in an end-of-summer student symposium. Students in the program will work in a research group headed by one of the following: Dr. Tom Juenger, Dr. Christine Hawkes, Dr. Tim Keitt. The REU positions are for ten weeks with the program starting the first week in June and ending the first week of August 2010. All students will be housed in a UT dormitory, and the costs of the dormitory and meal plan are included in the program. 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. Who Should Apply? Students in their sophomore or junior years of college, with strong credentials and majoring in ecology, biology, genetics, or related discipline are encouraged to apply. Participants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Students must also be prepared for fieldwork outdoors in hot and humid conditions. The application deadline is March 25. Applications should consist of a single pdf file containing a cover letter describing your experience, interests, and future career plans, a copy of your transcripts, and two letters of recommendation. All materials should be sent via email to: Dr. Tom Juenger (tjuenger@austin.utexas.edu). Posted: 3/15/10.

University of Texas at Austin: We are seeking applications to the 2010 Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU): Global Change and Its Impacts. Students in their sophmore or junior years of college with strong credentials and majoring in biology, ecology, geological sciences, civil engineering, marine science, chemistry, or any other environmentally-related discipline are encouraged to apply. Participants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Students and teachers in the program will each work in a faculty-mentored research group. You will have the opportunity to explore research in the fields of ecology, geology, hydrogeology, civil engineering, urban planning, GIS, and coastal ecology, all as they relate to Global Change and Its Impacts. More about the REU program. This program stresses connections between scientific and policy fields related to the environment in the area of Global Change. Why is an interdisciplinary approach to Global Change issues important? Think about trying to manage complex environmental problems such as climate impacts on water resources. These problems cannot be approached successfully without considering the impacts of human influence on water or land use. The program illustrates approaches to attacking difficult, multidimensional environmental issues. The University of Texas at Austin is home to top faculty and researchers in the area of global change research. ESI’s mission brings together researchers from a variety of disciplines, and as such allows participants to gain a larger perspective on the state of global change science. The ten-week program runs from the first week of June to the first week of August 2010. All students will be housed in a UT dormitory, and the costs of the dormitory and meal plan ($500) are included in the program. We assume that local teachers will not need these amenities, but all participants will be awarded a stipend of $4,500 for the summer, and some travel funds will be available to help defray the cost of traveling to Austin. Receipt of the full salary amount will be contingent upon completion of the program requirements. The Environmental Science Institute REU program is more than just research – there will be a variety of social activities throughout the summer, and field trips to provide hands-on experience in areas outside of your own research. Applications are due Feb 1, 2010. Program runs from the first week of June until the first week of August. Please direct any questions you have to Roy Rich at rrich@mail.utexas.edu. Posted: 12/21/09.

University of Utah: I am currently seeking undergraduate field assistants for a small mammal disease ecology study in the Great Basin Desert, central Utah during the months of May-August 2010 (see dates below). This project is a great opportunity for students interested in small mammal ecology, disease ecology, parasitology, and field biology to gain hands-on experience in conducting field research. The fieldwork includes small mammal trapping, processing and data collection. Small mammal trapping requires early mornings and late afternoon work. Applicants should enjoy working outdoors during the summer. Other duties include equipment repair and maintenance, data entry, food preparation, and cleaning the field station. Applicants should be willing to spend long days working. Applicants should have a positive attitude and be able to work well with other members of the crew. During non-field work weeks there will be an opportunity to gain hands on experience in the laboratory. The assistantship consists of at least 7 field trips (duration of stay: 4 days per week) at remote sites in central Utah (limited cell phone access/ no internet) Tentative field weeks: • May 10th-19th • June 1st-7th • June 17th-23rd • July 7th-13th • July 25th-31st • August 10th-16th Applicants should have availability for 6 out of the 7 trips. Stipend: $8 per hour up to 40 hrs per week. • Applicants must be US citizens (or hold a valid green card) and currently enrolled as an undergraduate student not graduating in May (all qualified applicants will be considered). • Room and board and food will be covered during field trips. ONLY APPLICANTS ARE RESPONSIBLE for room and board and all other costs of living while staying in the greater Salt Lake City area at all other times throughout the study. • Time off can be taken on during non-fieldwork weeks. Interested applicants should send a cover letter describing your interest in this assistantship, any relevant previous experience, resume, and names and email address of 3 references to Craig Gritzen (c.gritzen@utah.edu), please put “field assistant 2010” in the subject line of the email. Posted: 4/16/10.

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 18th year. Work at MLBS focuses on field-based ecology, evolution, physiology, and behavior. Learn more about the programs, complete an on-line applications. Courses web page: mlbs.org/courses.html REU web page: mlbs.org/REU.html. REU application deadline: February 20, 2010. Posted: 12/21/09.

University of Virginia: Undergraduate education is one our highest priorities at Blandy Experimental Farm. Since 1992 Blandy has provided Undergraduate Research Fellowships to students interested in ecology and environmental science. We have been aided in this effort by funding from the NSF's Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program. Our primary goal is to teach students to formulate testable hypotheses about important ecological and evolutionary questions. The format of the program encourages students to develop skills in experimental design, data collection, analysis, and critical reading of primary scientific literature. Students also learn to prepare and communicate scientific information to other scientists and the general public. Our program exposes students to a diversity of research projects that collectively illustrate how natural systems function and how science progresses. Through the course of the summer we provide students with information on various career options in ecology and the environmental sciences. Next summer we will offer 10 awards that carry a $4668 stipend + an additional meal budget, free housing, and a budget for supplies and research-related travel. Interested students can access the necessary application form and instructions directly from our application page. If you need further information please send an email to Kyle Haynes or call 540 837-1758 ext 292 M-F, 9-5 Eastern Time. The application and all supporting materials are due on March 1, 2010. These fellowships are only available for U.S. citizens and permanent U.S. residents. Posted: 11/18/09.

University of Washington: REU (Research Experience for Undergraduates): The role of birds in forest regeneration on the Mariana Islands. The Ecology of Bird Loss project examines the effect of bird loss on forests through changes in seed dispersal and food web dynamics. Current research projects focus on the Mariana Islands and compare forests on Guam, where forest birds are functionally extinct due to predation by the invasive brown treesnake, to forests on three of the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan, Tinian and Rota), where native avifauna populations are still intact. This summer the EBL project will sponsor two students through the NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program to examine the impacts of the loss of seed dispersers on regeneration of secondary forest on Guam, by comparing seed rain along the native/non-native forest boundaries on Guam to similar boundaries on nearby islands with birds (Saipan, Tinian and Rota). REU students will also participate in general research activities undertaken by the Ecology of Bird Loss project. Requirements: The successful applicants must be able to pay attention to detail, work well individually and as part of a group, and be flexible (i.e. willing to move to another island at a moment's notice). Research in the Mariana Islands involves working in high heat and humidity, walking over rough terrain sometimes carrying heavy and awkward loads (i.e. rolls of chicken wire, flats of seedlings), and tolerating the tedious, and at times monotonous, work necessary for all scientific endeavors. If a candidate is allergic to bees, he/she must carry a bee sting kit and be trained in its use, as the chances of getting stung are high. Relevant field experience is desired, but not required. Eligible candidates must be current sophomores and juniors; exceptionally well-qualified freshmen may be considered. Candidates must be US citizens with a valid US driver's license. Payment and benefits: Successful applicants will receive a round-trip ticket from their place of residence to Guam, housing on all islands and transportation to and from field sites. In addition, a modest stipend (approx. $400-$500 per week) and all costs associated with the research will be covered by the project. Duration: Applicants must be able to start between May 25th and June 15th and be available for 12 weeks. Applicants should note their availability in their application. To apply: Candidates should email a resume, cover letter, unofficial college transcript, and two letters of reference to hooshiar@uw.edu. Applications are due on March 10, 2010. Please contact Eliza Hooshiar (hooshiar@uw.edu), Crew Leader, if you have any questions related to the position. Posted: 2/15/10.

Summer Jobs and Internships | Undergraduate Programs | Short Courses

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Summer Jobs and Internships | Undergraduate Programs | Short Courses

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Ecological Genetics Field Study Abroad in China: Unique (and Low-Cost) Opportunity for Ten Undergraduates. 2011 Ecological Genetics Field Study Abroad in China. Learn Chinese and Ecological Genetics at the Unversity of Georgia. With funding from NSF's Partnerships for International Research and Education (PIRE) program, we are offering 10 undergraduates (U.S. citizens or permanent residents only) the opportunity to participate in a unique study abroad opportunity in China during the spring and summer of 2011. This will be the 4th year of the program and students have found it to be enormously rewarding. The research focus of our PIRE grant is a forensic phylogeographic study of species that are native to China and invasive in the southeastern U.S. as well as a growing number of species native to the southeastern U.S. and invasive in China. Each summer, we run an 8 week field course where we visit biological communities throughout China. Students can elect to continue in short-term research internships in our partner labs in China. Students will need to be prepared to take full advantage of this experience. Therefore, during the spring semester, students must enroll at the University of Georgia (UGA) and take 3 courses; two in intensive elementary Mandarin Chinese and a laboratory course in genetics. No prior experience with Chinese language is required, although students should have had at least a course in introductory biology and preferably courses in ecology and evolutionary biology. The cost to the student of the summer program is minimal: the grant covers travel to and within China, lodging and most meals. The student is responsible for health insurance, visa costs and personal expenses. Students are also responsible for the costs of enrolling at the University of Georgia for all required courses (12 credit hours) (all students are charged in-state tuition rate plus fees). Applications for the 2011 program are available at http://www.genetics.uga.edu/pire/undergrad.html. We encourage any interested students to contact Dr. Rodney Mauricio for more information (mauricio@uga.edu). Deadline April 15, 2010. Posted: 8/28/09, revised: 3/10/10.

Summer Field Ecology and Environmental Science Programs: The University of Notre Dame Environmental Research Center (UNDERC) offers two Field Ecology and Environmental Science Programs for the summer of 2010. Hands on field work … Paid tuition and housing… 6 credits/summer…and get paid $2,500/summer!! Applications due November 6th! UNDERC-East: (May 17 – July 23) Spend the summer studying northwoods ecology and conducting your own research in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula where UNDERC encompasses more than 7500 acres with abundant wildlife (including wolves, black bear, deer) and includes lakes, streams, wetlands, and forests that have been protected for nearly a century. UNDERC-West: (June 4 – August 13): Spend the summer studying the ecology of an intermountain valley in Montana, learn how Native Americans lived and how this created their environmental awareness, and conduct your own research. Explore more than a million acres on the Flathead Reservation with abundant wildlife (including bison, elk, mountain lion, and grizzly bear) and includes grasslands, montane forests, streams and lakes. (Pre-requisite -UNDERC-East). These programs promote understanding of field environmental biology and how field research is conducted through 9 – 10 weeks in the wild. Applications are accepted from students who will be completing at least their sophomore year at a 4-year college or university. Acceptance is based on past academic performance and a statement of purpose. Preference is given to students pursuing a career in environmental sciences. Additional information and applications are available online (http://underc.nd.edu) or from Dr. Michael Cramer, UNDERC-East Assistant Director (mcramer@nd.edu) or Dr. Gretchen Gerrish, UNDERC-West Assistant Director (ggerrish@nd.edu). Application deadline is Friday, November 6, 2009 and notification of acceptance will be provided by Friday, December 4, 2009. Posted: 9/23/09.

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