Cary Institute REU: Translational Ecology for Undergraduates
The Cary Translational Ecology Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program aims to train a new generation of environmental scientists who are both prepared and motivated to translate ecological science to the public, weaving together activities in 5 strands:
Cutting Edge Independent Research Projects
Working closely with a mentor scientist, students delineate a research question and hypotheses, develop and implement a project, analyze data, give an oral presentation in a formal symposium and write a paper. Skill building workshops support student learning. The bulk of students’ time is spent in this facet of the program.
Reflective Practice and Training Activities
Students participate in a Scientific Writing Workshop, a Statistics/R Workshop, Responsible Conduct of Research trainings, and sessions in asking good questions, applying theory in research, giving effective talks, and future options in work and study.
The Forum on Translational Ecology showcases examples of translational ecology in action, as well as a diversity of professional role models and careers. Students are supported in reflecting on themselves as scientists and translators of science.
Communication
With mentoring, students write short “elevator speeches” about their research, participate in a Communication Workshop where they hone their speeches for different audiences, and write and review each other’s lay-friendly summaries of their findings.
Application
Students consider the rich ways that their own research might influence society with applications to policy and management, and how society influences their science.
Education
REU students teach younger students in the Sharing Science Program, and participate in an Education Roundtable with education scholars and practitioners.
There are 11 potential projects that REU participants can work on, described here on the project website.
Program Details – Students in the 2018 program will receive a stipend of $6,600, housing in the Bacon Flats dormitory located on our campus just next door to the research and administration building where students conduct much of their work, and a food allowance of $900 for the 12 week program.
Students of diverse backgrounds come from all parts of the country to participate in the program, and a small pool of funds is available to help defray the costs of travel to the program for those students in need of assistance.
Apply here by January 28th, 2018 by 11:59pm
