Subject: Summer 2018 Research Experience for Undergraduates in Desert Aquatic Ecology in Arizona
The Grimm Lab at Arizona State University is seeking motivated undergraduate students to participate in research in desert stream and wetland ecosystem ecology during summer 2018. Successful applicants will work with graduate students and technicians to assist with ongoing surveys of nutrient cycling, wetland and riparian plant cover, and oxygen dynamics in several streams across Arizona. Additionally, participants have the opportunity to work with Grimm Lab members and the PI to develop a personal research project.
We have 2 different opportunities available, both based in Tempe, AZ:
(1) Dry and drying stream nitrogen cycling: The student will investigate the nitrogen cycling capacity of dry stream segments across Arizona. The position will include work in the field as well as the lab, with potential to work with a computer model of watershed nitrogen cycling.
(2) Plant effects on oxygen and nitrogen status: The student will investigate how water availability affects wetland plant distribution, nitrogen uptake, and oxygen status in urban and desert contexts. This position will include work in the field, greenhouse, and lab, with the potential to work on statistical programming and soil-water balance modelling.
The successful applicants are awarded a stipend, which includes cost of travel, lodging, and food.
Eligibility
Undergraduate students supported with NSF funds must be U.S. citizens, U.S.
nationals, or permanent residents of the United States. An undergraduate student is a student who is enrolled in a degree program (part-time or
full-time) leading to a baccalaureate or associate degree. Graduating seniors are not eligible to apply.
How to apply
Applications are evaluated upon submission, and positions will remain open until filled. Successful applicants will be interested in conducting research, be prepared start field work regularly at 5 am and work under high heat conditions, and be willing to learn computer programing. Please send application materials to Grimm Lab graduate student Amalia Handler
(amhandle@asu.edu) by May 23, 2018. Start and end dates are flexible based on the applicant’s schedule, but would ideally include 10 weeks of work.
Application materials must include:
1. Cover letter describing relevant experience and interests 2. Resume or CV 3. Contact information for two references 4. Unofficial undergraduate transcript
For any questions: Please contact Amalia Handler (amhandle@asu.edu).