NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) summer position-Minnesota

Ruth Shaw=E2=80=99s Research Group in the Dept. of Ecology, Evolution & Behavior at

the University of Minnesota is seeking applicants for an NSF Research

Experience for Undergraduates (REU) position in summer 2017 to study the

process of ongoing adaptation in experimental populations of partridge pea

(Chamaecrista fasciculata) in prairie habitat. The student will work closely

with Dr. Ruth Shaw and Dr. Mason Kulbaba to develop an independent project

in the area of plant evolutionary genetics, with possibilities ranging from

studies of heritability and phenotypic selection on plant traits to studies

of pollination ecology and phenology. The student will gain invaluable

experience in performing field work and in conducting an independent

research project, from hypothesis formulation through oral and written

dissemination of results, as grounding for future work in inquiry-based

scientific research. The student must be a U.S. citizen or permanent

resident and enrolled as an undergraduate for Fall 2017. The ideal candidate

should enjoy working outdoors and have an interest in learning about the

evolution and ecology of plants in the Midwest prairies, and candidates

planning to pursue a graduate career in evolution, ecology, or conservation

biology are particularly well-suited for this position. The REU intern will

receive a stipend of $5,000 and room and board in the Twin Cities (with

occasional overnight travel to field sites). Costs of travel to and from the

Twin Cities will also be provided.  The deadline to apply for this position

is March 10, 2017, and the 10-week internship is expected to begin on

Monday, June 5 and end on Friday, August 11. Please contact Mason Kulbaba

(mkulbaba@umn.edu) for more information. The University of Minnesota

provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and

employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin,

gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran

status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

Individuals of underrepresented groups are especially encouraged to apply.

Please forward this advertisement to any interested and qualified

undergraduates.

To apply, please e-mail the following application materials to Mason Kulbaba

(mkulbaba@umn.edu) with the subject line =E2=80=9CREU=E2=80=9D no later than March 10, 2017:

1.  a statement explaining the following:

=E2=80=A2why you are interested in this position

=E2=80=A2what are your future plans

=E2=80=A2dates you are available to start and end this position

=E2=80=A2confirm eligibility for the REU program

=E2=80=A2the name and contact information of the person who will serve as your reference

=E2=80=A2your e-mail address and phone number

2.  resume

3.  transcript (unofficial is acceptable)

4.  1 letter of recommendation (sent by your reference)