Higher Education
Research and Instruction for Undergraduates and Beyond
Our undergraduate education program is centered on student research. Students are immersed in an active scientific community, with up to 160 scientists, postdocs, graduate students, undergraduates, staff and family members living onsite. With numerous ecologists living on-site, the scientific activity is on high speed all summer.
Students are encouraged to take advantage of the multitude of scientific activities at the field station. Some activities are scheduled, such as the annual bird count and faculty-led modules on plant identification, mist-netting, and trapping, to name a few. We also hold a series of statistics and experimental design workshops at the beginning of the summer. In addition, we have a growing informal education program for visiting children and adults; these theme-based sessions are an opportunity to meet scientists and learn about their research, as well as an opportunity to interact with the local community. Finally, volunteering to help any number of professors, post docs, graduate students, or peer undergraduates is a great way to observe a variety of field projects.
At the RMBL, the student-mentor relationship is embedded in a vibrant resident scientific community, which facilitates superb undergraduate research. Our program has two tracks which target undergraduates at different points in their education. The two tracks differ in the degree of independence students experience when conducting research. We encourage students of all backgrounds and with varying levels of experience to apply to each of the tracks. We review applications, choose a group of students that comprises a diverse mix, and place students in the program that best fits their experience.
PROGRAM ONE: Advanced Independent Research/REU (with Senior Thesis Option)
10-week session: June 7 - August 15
This program targets rising seniors or students who have graduated. Students conduct independent research under the supervision of RMBL scientists. Students accepted through the Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program receive a $4,750 stipend, free room, board and travel.
Minorities underrepresented in the biological sciences are strongly encouraged to apply.
APPLICATION Deadline: February 15, 2010 for REU Awards. This deadline is passed.
APPLICATION Deadline Extended: March 5, 2010 for RMBL financial support and scholarships.
APPLICATION Deadline: June 1, 2010 or until programs are filled, for students not receiving financial support.
PROGRAM TWO: Independent Research and Course
10-week session: June 7 - August 15
Students conduct independent research under the supervision of RMBL scientists (80% time) while taking one of three field courses (20% time): 1) Methods in Field Ecology 2) Research Training in Wildlife Biology, or 3) Research Training in Field Botany. This program targets rising sophomores and juniors as well as students who wish to receive training in a particular area.
APPLICATION Deadline Extended: March 5, 2010 for RMBL financial support and scholarships.
APPLICATION Deadline: June 1, 2010 or until programs are filled, for students not receiving financial support.
Summer Information:
To learn more about living conditions at the Lab, what to bring, how to get here, and necessary forms visit our Summer Arrival Info/Forms link.
Click here for transcripts