SUMMER RESEARCH EXPERIENCE FOR UNDERGRADUATE (REU) OPPORTUNITY: ECOSYSTEM CONSEQUENCES OF PLANT-MICROBE INTERACTIONS
***Applications due March 21, 2014*** 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]>
