SUMMER RESEARCH EXPERIENCE FOR UNDERGRADUATE (REU) OPPORTUNITY:
ECOSYSTEM CONSEQUENCES OF PLANT-MICROBE INTERACTIONS
The Phillips lab at Indiana University
<http://sites.bio.indiana.edu/~phillipslab/index.html
<http://sites.bio.indiana.edu/%7Ephillipslab/index.html>> invites
applicants for a summer REU student to investigate the role of
plant-microbe interactions in forests. The overarching goal//of this
NSF-funded research is to develop a predictive framework for examining
how trees and their microbial associates influence carbon and nutrient
cycling across environmental gradients. This project is being conducted
in the mixed hardwood forests of south-central Indiana where we have
established plots along a "nutrient economy" gradient, with plots
dominated by tree species that associate with arbuscular mycorrhizal
(AM) fungi, plots dominated by trees associating with ectomycorrhizal
(ECM) fungi, and mixed plots (dominated by both AM and ECM trees).
The successful REU student will conduct an independent research project
on a question related to how soil fungi alter nutrient availability,
with guidance from scientific mentors in the Phillips lab. In addition
to conducting research, the student will gain experience in science
communication by presenting their results a the end of the summer in
written form (manuscript style research paper) and as an oral
presentation. The student will have the opportunity to assist with other
projects in the Phillips lab, and will gain experience in
state-of-the-art soil biogeochemical methods, as well as general lab and
field skills.
The REU student must be able to work with minimal supervision and as
part of a research team. A willingness to conduct moderate physical
activity in the field under adverse conditions is essential. The student
may be required to work long hours, and will be expected to endure field
conditions that include rain, heat, humidity, insects, etc. The student
must be comfortable being alone in the woods, and must be able to carry
soil samples (up to 30 lbs.) in a backpack through moderately rugged
terrain.
The REU student will receive a $5,000 stipend, free room and board, and
funds to support transportation to and from Bloomington. Start/end dates
are somewhat flexible, but the student must be able to work for at least
12 weeks - from mid-May to early August or mid-June to late August (if
on the quarter system).
Students must have relevant course experience (i.e., one or more courses
in environmental science, ecology, plant science, soil science or
microbiology) and be undergraduates (preferably starting their junior or
senior year in fall, 2014). Women and members of underrepresented groups
are especially encouraged to apply. Only U.S. citizens or permanent
residents are eligible for this NSF funded program.
To apply:Please send an email to both Drs. Richard Phillips and Tanya
Cheeke which includes 1) a one page cover letter describing your
research/educational background and specific interest in the position,
2) a resume that includes a list of pertinent courses (with grades) and
any previous research experience, and 3) the names, email and phone
numbers of two references.
Applications are due March 21, 2014. Applications should be emailed
directly to both Rich Phillips [email protected]
<mailto:[email protected]> and Tanya Cheeke [email protected]
<mailto:[email protected]>
**Please make sure to reply to both Tanya and Rich, and include "Summer
REU" in the title of your email**
Richard P. Phillips
Assistant Professor
Department of Biology
247 Jordan Hall, 1001 E. Third St.
Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405
[email protected] <mailto:[email protected]>
Tanya Cheeke
Postdoctoral Researcher
Department of Biology
247 Jordan Hall, 1001 E. Third St.
Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405
[email protected] <mailto:[email protected]>
R&D Subcontract Pro Forma
