2012 Sevilleta LTER Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Program

The Sevilleta LTER is seeking applicants for Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU).  Application deadline is March 10, 2012 .  We will be looking for up to 12 REU students for the Summer of 2012. For more information go to http://sev/lternet.edu/REU or contact Jennifer Johnson at jjohnson@sevilleta.unm.edu.

This interdisciplinary REU Site Program at the Sevilleta LTER in central New Mexico will train ten undergraduate students who will conduct independent research under the guidance of UNM faculty in Biology and Earth and Planetary Sciences. The summer program includes a seminar series, a journal club, an annual symposium, professional development workshops, ethics training, and fieldtrips. Students will conduct independent research at the Sevilleta, and present results at the annual research symposium. They will also attend a weekly seminar and journal club, and interact with visiting speakers. The program includes faculty in ecology, the geosciences, and meteorology. Working at the LTER site invites close interactions among students, faculty, and graduate students. Students will have numerous opportunities to share ideas and explore issues within and across disciplines. A goal is to increase the number of students, particularly underrepresented minorities, pursuing careers in bio-geosciences. The program will provide exposure to a large, multidisciplinary research program, inspire students to continue into professional careers, and prepare students for the rigors of graduate school, professional research, and responsible citizenship. The program exemplifies the integration of research and education. As students conduct research, they will learn how to be a scientist, along with many technical, methodological and ethical issues that arise in scientific research.

Lodging and laboratory space for REU students will be provided by the UNM Sevilleta Field Station at NO COST. In addition, candidates chosen will receive a stipend of $5000 during the 11-week summer program (typically May 23 - Aug. 7, but dates will be determined in Jan 2012) .  We will also refund travel costs to and from the UNM Sevilleta Field Station up to $500.

Applications will be accepted from students at any stage of their undergraduate program (freshman to senior) and any discipline, so long as the applicant is interested in conservation biology and ecology. Students are not eligible if they have completed an undergraduate degree by Summer 2012. We welcome applications from students at four year colleges, students that are the first member of their family to attend college, non-traditional students, and students from traditionally underrepresented groups.  Students must be U.S. Citizens.