REU at the HJ Andrews Experimental Forest LTER
Oregon State University
We are seeking applicants for an NSF-funded Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) position in summer 2018 to do tree physiology research at the H.J. Andrews Experimental Forest LTER on the west slope of the Oregon Cascades near Blue River, Oregon. This project will focus on characterizing the physiology of old-growth and second growth Doug-Fir trees, as well as their response to environmental conditions, using a combination of lab experiments and field observations. This research will contribute to a larger Ph.D. project on the impacts of heat waves and drought on Pacific Northwest forests, as well as facilitate research into needle endophytes. The student will be encouraged to participate in tree climbing, sample collecting, data analysis and lab experiments.
The position will be based at the H.J. Andrews Experimental Forest and travel will be required for short trips to Oregon State University (Corvallis, Oregon). The Andrews Forest was established in 1948 as an US Forest Service Experimental Forest, and since 1980 is one of the National Science Foundation’s Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) sites. The field station has modern apartments with full kitchens, a well-equipped computer lab, and wireless internet (see http://andrewsforest.oregonstate.edu for more information on the site, facilities and research programs at the HJ Andrews Experimental Forest). The landscape is home to iconic Pacific Northwest old-growth forests of cedar and hemlock, and moss-draped ancient Douglas firs; steep terrain; and fast, cold-running streams.
The goal of this program is to provide undergraduate students an opportunity to participate in 10 weeks of mentored, paid, independent research. The program includes a weekly seminar series and an opportunity for the student to interact with a multitude of scientists, OSU faculty, federal scientists, and graduate students conducting research in the area. Participants will work with the PI of the project (Dr. Chris Still) and a PhD student (Adam Sibley) on the grant. The REU student will conduct supervised and guided research and be encouraged to tailor the research project to his/her own individual interests.
This position lasts for 10 weeks, starting in June (dates flexible) and going through mid August 2018, working at least 40 hours/week. The student will be responsible for 1) meeting all requirements of the mentors and 2) writing a final research report on his/her research experience. Housing and a weekly stipend of $550 will be provided ($5500 total). There are also some funds to defray the cost of travelling to the H. J. Andrews Experimental Forest.
Position Requirements: Applicants should have a valid driver’s license, the ability to carry a heavy pack (40+ lb) and be comfortable spending long days on their feet in the field. The position will involve working in inclement weather. Students with experience and/or interest in plant physiology, field measurement techniques, tree climbing, and data analysis are particularly encouraged to apply. Eligibility is limited to currently enrolled undergraduates that have a graduation date no sooner than fall 2017. All applicants must be U.S. Citizens or permanent residents. Women, underrepresented minorities, and persons with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply.
To apply: Please submit a brief cover letter (1 page) indicating your interest, experience and professional goals after graduation, curriculum vitae or resume, transcripts (unofficial are acceptable) and 3 professional references (names, addresses, phone number, and email address) as 1 document to: adam.sibley@oregonstate.edu andchris.still@oregonstate.edu . Please include in the subject: HJA REU 2018 Application. Only complete applications will be considered. Review of applications will start Apr. 1st, 2018 and continue until a suitable candidate is identified.