Two Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) positions are available in Dr. Jennifer Tank’s Stream Ecology Laboratory as part of the GLOBES IGERT program at the University of Notre Dame (the full announcement can be found at http://globes.nd.edu/news-and-upcoming-events/reu.shtml). Each undergraduate will have the opportunity to conduct research related to ongoing projects involving stream ecosystem function and biogeochemistry. Students will gain experience with stream ecology field techniques, laboratory methods, data management, and the use of computer models through their involvement in one of the two following projects:
• Restoration of Ecosystem Function in Agricultural Streams: In the agricultural Midwest, channelized headwater streams export excess nutrients and sediments, resulting in downstream eutrophication. Two- stage ditch construction is a novel restoration technique in which formerly incised channels are excavated to re-create floodplains on either side of the channel. During storms, restored floodplains are inundated and are predicted to increase sedimentation and biological processing of nutrients. In partnership with The Nature Conservancy, we are testing the efficacy of this restoration technique by measuring denitrification rates in the stream channel and on the constructed floodplains. We are also measuring continuous whole-stream metabolism, to quantify stream bioreactivity and estimate assimilatory uptake of nitrogen. • Salmon and watershed timber harvest influence stream dynamics in Southeast Alaska: We are studying the functional and biogeochemical response of streams to timber harvest legacy and annual salmon migrations in Southeast Alaska. Timber harvest exerts a strong physical influence on these streams, while salmon provide a significant nutrient subsidy to the biotic communities. We are using multiple ecosystem metrics (e.g. whole- stream metabolism, sediment nitrification assays, and nutrient flux estimates) to understand the abiotic and biotic drivers of stream ecosystem function in response to human and natural disturbance events. Ideal candidates would be Sophomore/Junior Biology, Ecology, or Environmental Science majors with a strong interest in aquatic ecology and/or biogeochemistry. The approximate start date for these positions is June 1, 2008 and would last 10 weeks. For additional information on either project, please contact Lab Manager Mia Stephen ([EMAIL PROTECTED]). Please submit application materials as indicated on the GLOBES REU website: http://globes.nd.edu/news-and-upcoming-events/reu.shtml. IN ADDITION, please send a letter of interest and a current resume or curriculum vitae to Mia Stephen ([EMAIL PROTECTED]), Department of Biological Sciences, 188 Galvin, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556. Electronic copies are preferred. Application review will begin on March 1, 2008 and continue until the positions are filled.
