Undergraduate Summer Research Position: Plant Ecology, Syracuse University, May 16 - August 5, 2011 (12 wks). The lab of Jason Fridley at Syracuse University is seeking a highly motivated undergraduate student interested in gaining research experience in plant physiological ecology as part of a research team investigating the effects of climate change on species-rich grasslands.
Description The research is one component of a study that addresses long-term climate change impacts on a limestone grassland in northern England. The undergraduate project will involve lab physiological assays of ca. 20 species from the climate change experiment, conducted at the plant growth facilities of Syracuse University. The major objective is to quantify differences in resource uptake efficiencies among species that may underlie patterns of abundance shifts in response to long-term water and temperature manipulation. Activities will include plant propagation, physiological measurements involving gas exchange, water relations, and tissue nutrient analysis, and participation in data analysis, with considerable opportunities for independent research. The student will be provided with a $2000/month stipend for living expenses over the 12-wk duration. Eligibility Relevant field or plant propagation experience and ecology-related coursework is desirable but not required. The student must be a U.S. citizen and enrolled in an accredited undergraduate college degree program. Students graduating in spring 2011 are not eligible. Application Interested applicants should send a statement of interest, resume, unofficial transcript, one letter of recommendation, and contact information for two additional references. The statement of interest should be less than 500 words and include the following information: (i) professional goals, (ii) interest in position, and (iii) relevant experience. Send application materials in one PDF file to Dr. Jason Fridley ([email protected]). The letter of recommendation should be e-mailed directly from the recommender with the applicants name in the subject line. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applications will be accepted through April 1, 2011.
