Ecology in Context:
Independent Research in Ecology for Undergraduates Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies, Millbrook, New York

Ten undergraduate students will join the Cary Institute research community in 2009 to:

· Complete a research project of their own design.
· Be a part of an exciting research community.
· Work closely with leading ecologists.
· Exchange ideas with a diverse group of students, scientists and educators.
· Have access to state of the art facilities.
· Explore ecology career options and rewards.
· See how ecological research has an impact on our society.

The program emphasizes the community nature of the scientific enterprise, fosters reflection and builds self confidence and skills. To complement their mentored research, students have many chances to interact, give and receive feedback and support, and participate in a rich assortment of enrichment activities, workshops and field trips.

Dates: May 26 to August 14, 2009 (12 weeks)
Eligibility: Undergraduate freshmen, sophomores, juniors or first semester seniors. Must be citizens or permanent residents of the U.S. or its possessions.
Stipend: $5,100 stipend, plus $600 allowance for food and free housing in Bacon Flats Lodge.
Other support: Some assistance is available for travel to and from the program as well.

Projects for 2009:

· Ecological functions of Hudson River marshes, shallows and tributaries.
· Microbial process in urban ecosystems.
· Investigating people’s ideas about ecosystems.
· What, if anything, controls tick populations and Lyme disease risk?
· Ecosystem response to an introduced pest in a hemlock forest.
· Flow related variations in the chemistry of Wappinger Creek at the Cary Institute.
· Elevation fluctuations in stream-connectivity for hydrology and biology within the Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest, NH.
· Terrestrial salamanders in the Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest.
· Urban carbon budgets and urban forests as carbon sinks.
· Ecological perspectives on managing forest for sustained yield: insights from a model.
· Songbird behavioral ecology: how do veeries use their songs for mate choice and territory defense?
· The social ecology of vacant lots in Baltimore, Maryland.

To apply:
See our website at:
http://www.ecostudies.org/reu.html

Online application only.
Applications must be submitted by February 1, 2009.

For more information, contact:
Patricia Zolnik
Undergraduate Research Coordinator
Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies
PO Box AB, 2801 Sharon Turnpike, Millbrook, NY 12545
(845) 677-7600 x326
Fax: (845) 677-5976
E-mail: zolnikp@caryinstitute.org