A Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) position is available at the Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium (LUMCON) for the summer of 2011. The REU will participate in field research studying the effects of hydrologic remediation to counteract the effects of the oil spill as part of a NSF RAPID project directed by Drs. Brian Roberts (LUMCON) and Beth Middleton (U.S. Geological Survey, National Wetlands Research Center). Field research will be conducted in long-term research sites in Texas, Louisiana and Florida on ecosystem processes related to elevation, production, decomposition and greenhouse gas emission rates. In addition to gaining experience by assisting in a variety of project activities, the REU will identify a research question, develop and orally present a research proposal, conduct their proposed independent research project, and gain experience in science communication by presenting results of their project in a manuscript-style research paper and orally at a laboratory-wide research symposium. LUMCON is a NSF-funded REU site (more info about the program can be found at www.lumcon.edu/REU) and the REU selected for this position will have the opportunity to participate in the REU program activities and interact with other peers participating in other aspects of LUMCONs summer field program while in residence at the Marine Center in Cocodrie, LA.
Candidates must be available for the ten week period beginning June 4th and ending August 12th. We will provide a $500/week stipend for ten weeks, room and board at the Marine Center, and support for their research. The ideal candidate should be interested in pursuing a career in ecology, creative, hard-working, detail orientated, dedicated, and comfortable working as part of research team. Students from traditionally underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply. Interested students are encouraged to apply by March 1, 2011 but applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Eligible candidates must be current undergraduate students and citizens or permanent residents of the United States or its possessions. To be eligible you must be returning to an undergraduate degree program in the fall (e.g., if you will graduate in May or June, you are NOT eligible). Applications should include: copy of unofficial transcripts, contact information for two academic references, CV/resume, and a one page statement that describes your interest in the REU position, academic goals, and any previous research experience. Please confirm in your statement that you meet each eligibility requirement above (e.g., currently enrolled undergraduate, US citizen or permanent resident, available for the entire 10 week period). Applications should be sent to Dr. Brian Roberts at [email protected]. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
