Higher Education
Research and Instruction for Undergraduates and Beyond
For a 2012 Coursework Flyer, which prints out to 8 1/2 x 11" click here.
Our summer 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 RMBL. Some activities are scheduled, such as the annual bird count and faculty-led modules on plant identification, sampling techniques, 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 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.
SUMMER PROGRAM ONE: Advanced Independent Research / REU (with Senior Thesis Option)
10-week session: June 8 - August 16
This program targets students who wish to conduct a full-time independent research project in field biology; applicants may be currently enrolled in an undergraduate program, graduates of an undergraduate program, or may be early in their graduate career. 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, 2012 for REU Awards.
APPLICATION Deadline: March 4, 2012 for RMBL financial support and scholarships.
APPLICATION Deadline: June 1, 2012 or until programs are filled, for students not receiving financial support.
SUMMER PROGRAM TWO: Independent Research and Course
10-week session: June 8 - August 16
Students conduct independent research under the supervision of RMBL scientists (75-80% time) while taking one of three field courses (20-25% time): 1) Methods in Field Ecology 2) Research Training in Wildlife Biology, or 3) Field Botany. This program targets students who are relatively new to field biology as well as those who wish to receive training in a particular area.
APPLICATION Deadline: March 4, 2012 for RMBL financial support and scholarships.
APPLICATION Deadline: June 1, 2012 or until programs are filled, for students not receiving financial support.
To learn more about living conditions at RMBL, what to bring, how to get here, and necessary forms visit our Summer Arrival Info/Forms link.
***NEW*** FALL COURSE: The Ecology of Food
For an Ecology of Food Flyer, which prints to 8 1/2" by 11", please click here.
12-week session: August 24 - November 16, 2012
This unique course investigates food production using a rigorous scientific approach. In addition, students will learn to communicate their findings to the public using various forms of media. Students will travel from Colorado to Mexico, visiting a variety of sites including small organic farms and large-scale dairies. At each place students will explore the types of food produced and consumed, as well as the consequences and costs for water, for energy and carbon and resource use, and for biodiversity and natural ecosystems.
APPLICATION Deadline: April 1, 2012 or until program is filled.
RMBL provides equal opportunities in science and education without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, or sexual preference.