The Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve of the University of Minnesota has opportunities for students to work as plant community ecology interns. Most positions run from June through August, but some interns are needed as early as March and some are needed through December. Pay is $10.00 per hour. As a research intern, you will contribute to ongoing field experiments, have the opportunity to initiate individual research, attend scientific presentations, and interact with professors, post-docs, and graduate students. If you are an undergraduate or a newly graduated student with a background or interest in biology, ecology, environmental science, botany, soil science, or related field we encourage you to apply.
Cedar Creek research examines ecological processes occurring at the individual physiological level to the ecosystem level in response to (1) a variety of climate change scenarios including elevated CO2, increased temperature, increased nitrogen deposition, and altered precipitation patterns; (2) land management practices including prescribed burning, biofuel harvesting, and agricultural production; and (3) varied land use histories. Research is headed by a number of faculty from research institutions across the United States. Programs are funded by the National Science Foundation, the Department of Energy, the Leglislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources, and other sources. The Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve itself is a nine square mile tract of land 35 miles north of the Twin Cities. Because of its fortunate location in mid-continent at the triple meeting point of three great biomes of North America, it carries much of the continent's biological heritage. Cedar Creek is endowed with a diverse mosaic of prairie, savanna, sedge meadows, bogs, open water, forests, and even abandoned agricultural fields. Its large size, great natural diversity, and uniform soil substrate make it ideal for ecosystem studies. Typical work days are eight hours Monday through Friday, however some projects require weekend and evening work. On-site dormitory housing is available for approximately $340 per month. Most of the work you do will be out in the field, though a few jobs have indoor laboratory or computer components. Your educational institution may be able to approve this internship, with an appropriate independent project, for any field biology requirement of your major. To apply, please email the following materials together in one email by March 4th, 2013: **Letters of recommendation should be sent separately**: A completed application form (download here) A resume (maximum of two pages) A cover letter stating why this internship will benefit you A transcript (unofficial is acceptable) Two letters of recommendation (should be sent separately)** If you can start earlier than April 1st, we encourage you to complete the application process earlier as we may be hiring some interns before the application deadline. ** The letters should be emailed in by your references. Please have them write your last name in the subject title for the email. All materials should be emailed to [email protected]. If you have any questions regarding the application process or the internship please email the above address or call 763-434-5131. You will be considered for this internship if (a) you are a US citizen or (b) a foreign citizen attending a US college or university full-time.
