Summer undergraduate research position in plant disease ecology – University of Florida

The Flory Lab (florylab.com) at the University of Florida (UF) in Gainesville, FL is seeking a highly motivated undergraduate for a Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) position for summer 2019. This position is part of a larger research project funded by the NSF/USDA/NIH Ecology and Evolution of Infectious Disease program aimed at understanding how plant pathogens might mediate the long-term outcome of interactions between an invasive grass (stiltgrass) and native plant species. Depending on the student’s interest, the project may include experiments in a greenhouse or growth chamber, field work experience, and programming in R. With the help of mentors, the REU student will develop an independent project, acquiring skills in question formulation, experimental design and execution, data analysis, and science communication. The REU student will work closely with Amy Kendig, a postdoc in the Flory lab, and Luke Flory, one of the project principal investigators, and will interact with other UF researchers involved in the project.

Applicants must be enrolled in a baccalaureate degree program with an anticipated graduation date after September 2019 and must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident (including possessions/territories). The ideal candidate will be interested in pursuing a graduate degree or career in ecology, evolution, environmental science, or biology following graduation.

The REU position is 10-12 weeks in duration during summer 2019 with a flexible start date and a stipend of $497/week.

To apply, send the following to Amy Kendig at amy.kendig@ufl.edu (if possible combined as a single Word or PDF file):
1. A brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience, interest in the position, and career goals (maximum one page, single spaced)
2. A resume or CV
3. Undergraduate transcript (official or unofficial)
4. Contact information for two references (research advisors are preferred if you have prior experience)

Applications are due February 15, 2019. Please email Amy with any questions.