Rochester, NY

Position Title: Research Experiences for Undergraduates: Interdisciplinary Problem Solving in Human Dominated Wetland Ecosystems

Organization: Rochester Institute of Technology

Location: Rochester, NY

Position Overview:  This Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program emphasizes engaging students in interdisciplinary earth systems research that builds collaboration and communication skills for solving complex environmental problems. We will use wetland restoration as a lens through which participants will get hands-on experience in studying the interactions between science and society that shape ecosystem functions and services.

Projects will be grouped into interdisciplinary research clusters that include the following approaches: (i) biogeochemistry and ecology, (ii) sociological feedbacks, and (iii) geospatial patterns and scaling. This summer research experience centers around four key components (1) mentored research projects, (2) interdisciplinary skill development, (3) professional development workshops, and (4) scientific communication and outreach.

Duties: Students will participate in weekly workshops focusing on both interdisciplinary research skills and professional development. Skills workshops are designed to expose all participants to the wide range of approaches that are used in interdisciplinary earth science research, with topics ranging from sequencing to remote sensing. Professional development workshops will focus on scientific best practices and communication skills and will culminate in activities where students will disseminate their research in a range of settings, including youth programs, community events, and RIT’s undergraduate research symposium.

Qualifications: This program is for students who are enrolled in a college or university, including community college, and who will not yet have completed their undergraduate degree by the end of the summer session. This program is particularly well suited for students who will be completing their second or third year and who have limited access to earth science or environmental science research opportunities at their home institution. This is an interdisciplinary program and they welcome participants from all academic majors who are interested in environmental science questions. They encourage women, members of under-represented minorities, and deaf or hard-of-hearing students to apply. NSF funding requirements restrict participation to students who are US citizens, US nationals, or permanent residents.

Start/End Dates: May 30 to August 5

Salary/Pay: REU participants receive a stipend of $6000, free on-campus housing in RIT’s Global Village, meal allowances and a travel stipend

Application Deadline:  February 15

How to Apply: Please use the online application to view the full job description as well as how to apply.