Long-term ecological research in New Mexico

The Sevilleta Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) is seeking applicants for our 2013 Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Program. Application deadline is March 11, 2013.

This interdisciplinary REU Site Program at the Sevilleta LTER in central New Mexico will train up to 10 undergraduate students who will conduct independent research under the guidance of a University of NM faculty mentor from Biology and/or Earth and Planetary Sciences. The summer program includes a seminar series, journal club, an annual symposium, professional development workshops, ethics training, and field trips. Students will conduct independent research on the Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge and present results at a research symposium at the end of the summer. The program includes faculty mentors in ecology, evolution, behavior, geology, 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 under-represented minorities, pursuing careers in bio-geosciences. Students will be exposed to a large, multidisciplinary research program, encouraged to continue into professional careers, and prepared for the rigors of graduate school, professional research, and responsible citizenship. The REU program exemplifies the integration of research and education.

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 (May 27 - August 9).  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 the biosciences. Students are not eligible if they have completed an undergraduate degree by summer 2013. 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.

Application information can be found at http://sev.lternet.edu/REU or you can contact the REU Coordinator, Amaris Swann, at reu2013@sevilleta.unm.edu.

Email: amswann@sevilleta.unm.edu