Summer 2016 REU. Plant Evolutionary Genetics. University of Minnesota. St. Paul, MN
Ruth Shaw’s Research Group in the Dept. of Ecology, Evolution & Behavior at the University of Minnesota is seeking applicants for an NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) position in summer 2016 to study the process of ongoing adaptation in experimental populations of partridge pea (*Chamaecrista fasciculata*) in prairie habitat. The student will work closely with Dr. Ruth Shaw to develop an independent project in the area of plant evolutionary genetics, with possibilities including estimation of heritability and phenotypic selection on various plant traits and studies of population dynamics. The student will gain invaluable experience in performing field work and in conducting an independent research project, from hypothesis formulation through oral and written dissemination of results, as grounding for future work in inquiry-based scientific research. The student must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and should be enrolled as an undergraduate in Fall 2016. The ideal candidate should enjoy working outdoors and have an interest in learning about the evolution and ecology of plants in the Midwest prairies, and candidates planning to pursue a graduate career in evolution, ecology, or conservation biology are particularly well-suited for this position. The REU intern will receive a stipend of $5,000 and room and board in the Twin Cities (with occasional overnight travel to field sites). Costs of travel to and from the Twin Cities will also be provided. The deadline to apply for this position is March 11, 2016, and the 10-week internship is expected to begin on Monday, June 13 and end on Friday, August 19. Please contact Ruth Shaw ( [email protected]) for more information. The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. Individuals of underrepresented groups are especially encouraged to apply. Please spread the word to any interested and qualified undergraduates. To apply, please e-mail the following application materials to Ruth Shaw (shawx016@@umn.edu) with the subject line “REU” no later than March 11, 2016: 1) a statement explaining the following: - Why you are interested in this position? - What previous experience do you have that is relevant for this position? - What are your future plans? Please call this opportunity to the attention of undergraduates likely to be interested: Ruth G. Shaw Professor and Editor in Chief, *Evolution*Dept of Ecology, Evolution and Behavior 100 Ecology1987 Upper Buford Circle University of Minnesota St. Paul MN 55108
