Are you an undergraduate student who is interested in ecology, plant biology, and sustainability? The Hall Lab is looking for an enthusiastic and motivated undergraduate student to participate in research activities in urban ecology during the summer of 2018. The participant will work with faculty, graduate students, and technicians to explore how and why people manage their yards, and the consequences of those choices for biodiversity and outdoor water use. The student will work with team members to conduct field work in residential yards and Sonoran Desert parks across the Phoenix Metropolitan Area.
Metro Phoenix, Arizona, is situated in the northern Sonoran Desert, which is home to the iconic saguaro cactus and charismatic desert animal species. ASU is located in Tempe, a lively and vibrant college town with accessible public transportation and amenities.
This REU opportunity is a 10-week program that runs from mid-May to mid-August, 2018. The successful applicant will be awarded a $5,000 stipend, and up to $3,000 for housing. Additionally, funding is available for the REU student to prepare and present a poster at the January 2019 CAP LTER All Scientists Meeting in Tempe, AZ.
About the Project
The Hall Lab at Arizona State University explores ecological patterns and processes in human-dominated ecosystems to find solutions that will benefit people and nature. As part of a NSF-funded Macrosystems grant, the Hall Lab seeks to explore patterns of biodiversity and ecosystem services in urban areas. Documenting the social drivers and benefits of native and other plant species will help to inform city managers about sustainable urban practices.
Project Timeline
During the first three weeks of the REU program, the student will work on directed readings of the literature, and will “apprentice” with members of our teams. By the end of three weeks, we expect the student to complete a draft proposal of her/his research project. The following several weeks will be dedicated to collecting and analyzing data under our guidance. During the final two weeks, the student will write a report of her/his work and prepare an oral presentation of project findings for our research group.
Minimum Qualifications
The successful candidate must:
- Have an interest in ecological research.
- Have excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Be a quick learner and be able to work on projects with minimal direct supervision.
- Be able to work outside during the summer in Phoenix and be able to perform job duties in a variety of climatic conditions, including high temperatures. Summer temperatures in Phoenix can reach over 110 degrees F.
- Have a positive attitude.
- Be able to work independently and as part of a team.
- Be able to walk and stand for extensive periods of time, often stooping, bending, pulling, pushing, and lifting.
- Be able to lift or carry equipment, and supplies, not to exceed 40 lbs.
Desired Qualifications
- Students who are majoring in an environmental discipline (natural resources, conservation biology, plant or soil science).
- Flexibility in working on different tasks as needs change over the course of the project.
Eligibility
Undergraduate student participants supported with NSF funds in either REU Supplements or REU Sites must be U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or permanent residents of the United States. An undergraduate student is a student who is enrolled in a degree program (part-time or full-time) leading to a baccalaureate or associate degree.
How to apply
Please send cover letter, resume or CV, and unofficial transcripts to Laura Steger (e-mail: Lsteger@asu.edu) by April 13, 2018.