Seeking an undergraduate student to contribute to a National Science Foundation (NSF) Long Term Ecological Research (LTER) project addressing how forest species interactions influence plant regeneration following wildfire. This student will assist with understory vegetation resurveys involving seedlings of canopy trees and herbaceous plants in recently burned old-growth forests. In addition, this student will develop independent research related to the distribution and performance of nitrogen fixing Ceanothus sanguineus, which is of particular interest for its ability to influence nitrogen pools and canopy seedling survival rates. This student will have opportunities to present results of their summer research and will be co-mentored by Dr. Joe LaManna and PhD student Cole Doolittle (Marquette University).
This NSF-funded Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) internship provides an undergraduate student an opportunity to participate in 10 weeks of a mentored, paid, research experience. The internship is full-time (40 hours/week), for 10 weeks roughly from June-August 2022. The work will occur at the H. J. Andrews Experimental Forest (HJA) (https://andrewsforest.oregonstate.edu/), which is located approximately one hour east of Eugene, Oregon, in the beautiful Western Cascade range. The area is known for its recreational opportunities including hiking and backpacking, scenic volcanoes, and the Three Sisters Wilderness Area. Students will be provided with a stipend of $5,500 and apartment-style, shared-room housing at the HJA field station. There are funds to defray the cost of traveling to the HJA . Please note that the REU program is considered an educational program rather than employment; therefore, Oregon State University does not provide worker’s compensation insurance coverage nor medical insurance on your behalf. The student intern will be responsible for their own health insurance coverage.
Applicants should have a valid driver’s license, the ability to carry a heavy pack (40+ lb) for moderate distances (5+ mi) over uneven, mountainous terrain, and be comfortable spending long days on their feet in the field. The position will involve working in inclement weather. Being a team player is necessary for group work/living situation. Ability to adapt to a variable work schedule is also necessary. Eligibility is limited to currently enrolled undergraduates that have a graduation date no sooner than fall 2023 (no graduating seniors). All applicants must be U.S. Citizens or permanent residents. Students from traditionally underrepresented groups in science are strongly encouraged to apply.
To apply, please send: 1) a cover letter outlining your interest and relevant experience, 2) CV, and 3) contact information for three professional references to: Cole Doolittle with the subject line “LTER REU Application”. Review of applications will begin on March 20th, 2023 but applications will be considered until the position is filled.
See the original posting here: https://andrewsforest.oregonstate.edu/news/research-experience-undergraduates-reu-vegetation-studies
