The Morton Arboretum’s Center for Tree Science Undergraduate Research Fellowship Students in the Center for Tree Science Undergraduate Research Fellowship (CTS-URF) program spend ten weeks at The Morton Arboretum under the mentorship of our Research Scientists and Research Associates. The CTS-URF is designed to engage undergraduate students in the scientific process through the completion of an independent research project, falling in one of our major research areas. Research at the Center for Tree Science is focused on trees, obviously, but there are many facets to tree science. Students will have the opportunity to indicate their preference among available mentors at the Morton Arboretum. Our scientists cover a broad range of topics: basic tree biology, forest ecology, arboriculture, biomechanics, root biology, soil science, genetics, phylogenetics, systematics, conservation biology, and restoration ecology.
Students participate in weekly activities, such as seminars, field trips, and social events. The program endeavors to promote critical thinking, independence, self-confidence, perseverance, and group working skills. Participation in the program will help prepare students for graduate studies and professional careers in science-related fields. At the end of the program, students will be required to prepare a scientific poster and give presentations of their work in a student research symposium at The Morton Arboretum. The students also interact with peers in similar programs based at the Chicago Botanic Garden and the Field Museum. More information on the CTS- URF program can be found at www.mortonarb.org/ctsurf. The 2017 program dates will be June 12 through August 18. Successful applicants receive a stipend, an opportunity for housing, and a nominal budget for research. Application review will begin January 1 and continue through February 24, 2017. Apply for the CTS-URF program HERE. Application materials to be submitted as one PDF document include: 1. Cover letter (one page maximum), describing why you would like to participate in the CTS-URF program, your career goals and how this program will help you meet them, prior research experience (if any), and your mentor and/or research area preference. 2. Curriculum vitae or resume. 3. Official or unofficial transcripts from your academic institution. In addition, a letter of reference from an instructor or advisor from your academic institution should be sent to the following email address: [email protected] Please contact [email protected] with questions. The Morton Arboretum is an equal opportunity employer committed to achieving a diverse workforce.
