Arcata, CA

Position Title: Crescent Cores to Code program

Organization: Cascadia Region Earthquake Science Center

Location: Arcata, CA

Program Overview: Cores to Code (C2C) is a 3-week summer research experience that will delve into the interdisciplinary study of the earthquake and tsunami history of the Cascadia subduction zone. The program will be based out of Cal Poly Humboldt, a minority-serving institution. Students will conduct geologic fieldwork in Humboldt Bay coastal marshes, collect marsh sediment cores, conduct laboratory analysis on the cores, and explore how these geologic data are integrated into the geophysical models that help characterize past earthquakes along the Cascadia subduction zone. At the end of the program, students will synthesize and present their findings to their peers, mentors, and local community.

Duties:

C2C offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience, develop technical skills, and engage deeply with earthquake and tsunami research. We will emphasize the interconnectedness of various subduction zone science disciplines. Expect to learn how different fields overlap and how this interdisciplinary approach can enrich your research. By preparing adequately, participating fully, and remaining adaptable, you can make the most of this educational experience and lay a strong foundation for your future scientific endeavors. The program goals and learning outcomes of C2C are as follows:

Hands-On Experience and Technical Skills

• Field experience: Students will visit a coastal site to conduct a stratigraphic study that will identify and map past land-level changes and tsunami inundation. Students will take and describe sediment cores, map tsunami deposits, conduct elevation surveys, and sample the modern environments of the site. 
• Laboratory experience: Students will process samples (photograph and archive cores), map site stratigraphy, and be introduced to quantitative laboratory techniques in subduction zone science. Instruction will include microscope work on microfossils that record paleoenvironments.

• Computational experience: Students will be introduced to modeling techniques in subduction zone science. Instruction will include computer time for modeling approaches.

Research Projects

• Conduct coastal geological studies in data- poor areas, and/or sites that could benefit from re-analysis using updated techniques. 
• Gain experience of the full range of research endeavors, including data acquisition, analysis, and dissemination; synthesize and present findings to peers, mentors, and local community at the end of the program.

Mentoring and Networking

• Forge connections with peers and professionals who’ve been in your shoes, offering mentorship and support during the summer and beyond. 
• Graduate students and early career researchers from diverse scientific backgrounds (e.g., coastal geologists, geophysicists) will serve as mentors in the program.
• Participants will have the opportunity to interact with local stakeholders and emergency managers.

Professional Development

Boost your skills beyond academics – from working on science communication to time management to teamwork.

Start/End Dates: June 7 – June 28, 2025

Salary/Pay: stipend of $2000, 

Application Deadline: Feb 15, 2025

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