Research Experience for Undergraduates: Disease Ecology A Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) position is available at Ball State University for Summer 2011 to undertake a project on the role of disease in freshwater ecosystems with Drs. Randy Bernot and Melody Bernot. The REU student will join graduate and undergraduate students working on an NSF-funded project focused on the differential effects of parasites and newly emerging contaminants on aquatic ecosystems. Our studies focus on trematodes, the snails they parasitize, and benthic community and ecosystem within which they interact. We are particularly interested in the role parasites play in mediating the flow of energy through ecosystems and the cycling of nutrients within ecosystems. Additionally, we frame these interactions within realistic environments containing emerging chemical contaminants such as manufactured nanomaterials.
The REU student will gain perspective and experience in parasitology, ecotoxicology, ecological stoichiometry, community ecology, and ecosystem ecology while developing an independent research project at an interface among these subdisciplines. Students will work as part of our team on the Ball State campus in Muncie, IN, conduct field and laboratory experiments, and develop his/her own independent research project. The REU student will earn a stipend of $500/wk for 10 weeks and receive additional support for their research. The student will also receive support to attend a national scientific meeting such as the annual meeting of the Ecological Society of America in 2011 and/or 2012. The ideal candidate will be creative, hard-working, careful, dedicated, interested in pursuing a career in science, and will play well with others in a team setting. Students from traditionally underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply. Interested students are encouraged to apply by March 15, 2011 but applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Eligible candidates must by U.S. citizens or permanent residents and be currently enrolled as a sophomore or junior in a college or university (i.e., recent graduates are ineligible). The REU student will be expected to participate for 10 weeks preferably starting in mid-May through August 2011. Applications should include: copy of unofficial transcripts, contact information for two academic references, CV/resume, and a one page statement that describes your interest in the REU position, academic goals, and previous research experience (if any). Please confirm in your statement that you meet each eligibility requirement above (e.g., currently enrolled, citizenship, available for 10 weeks). Please send applications (email preferred) to: Randy Bernot Assistant Professor Department of Biology Ball State University Muncie, IN 47306 765.285.8844 [email protected] Questions or inquiries for more information should also be directed to Randy Bernot at the address above.
