Project Opportunities

Discipline: Biology

Ecosystem Ecology & Biogeochemistry Research Assistant Wanted

We are seeking an undergraduate student for a summer research assistant position on a project addressing coupled hydrology and nutrient cycling of arctic hillslopes. The research is based out of the Toolik Field Station in northern Alaska. Primary duties will include collecting water samples; assisting with experiments measuring nutrient uptake; maintaining equipment for automated collection of water samples, stream discharge, and chemistry; and data entry. The student will join a collaborative team that includes hydrologists and biogeochemists, and will be expected to work closely with graduate students and PIs in the field. 

The student must be enthusiastic and able to work under adverse field conditions. The field work involves off-trail hiking up to 2 km carrying a pack. Strong communication skills are required. Ideal timing of the position is late-May to mid-Aug. Preferred qualifications include experience with ecological field research and demonstrated interest in ecosystem ecology, biogeochemistry, or high-latitude ecosystems.

Prospective students may apply online to Job Posting Number 0066058 at: https://www.uakjobs.com/applicants/jsp/shared/frameset/Frameset.jsp?time=1363887987989

Please contact Tamara Harms ( tkharms@alaska.edu ) stating interest and briefly describing qualifications and experience. Applicant review will begin March 15 and continue until a suitable candidate is identified. Applicants are encouraged to apply by March 30, 2013. 

Stream Ecology Research Assistant Wanted

We are seeking enthusiastic undergraduate students to assist with a project investigating spatial scaling of ecosystem processes in stream networks. Research will be conducted in boreal streams in Interior Alaska, and the student will be based out of Fairbanks. Primary duties will include collection of water, fish, and invertebrate samples; assistance with measures of ecosystem metabolism and nutrient uptake; maintenance of experimental fish exclosures; chemical analyses; and data entry. 

Students must be willing to work under adverse field conditions, and be able to haul sampling equipment across uneven terrain. Students will work closely with graduate students and PIs, and must have strong communication skills. The ideal period of work is June through early August. Preferred
qualifications include experience with ecological field research, demonstrated interest in ecosystem ecology, biogeochemistry, or fisheries. Prospective students should contact Jay Jones ( jay.jones@alaska.edu ) with a brief statement of interest and description of qualifications by March 30.

Discipline: Mathematics

Summer Research Program Opportunity

The UAF REU program allows undergraduate students to enrich their mathematical foundation through research. This eight-week long summer program strives to take in-school studies and apply them to real world aspects, creating a bridge from the classroom to everyday occurrences. Students within the program are encouraged to work with one another sharing their knowledge and learning together.

For more information, contact Project Leader Dr. Alexei Rybkin by email at arybkin@alaska.edu or visit

http://www.dms.uaf.edu/~rybkin/REU/REU2013Flyer.html

Discipline: Remote sensing and environmental science

Undergraduate Research Assistant Wanted

The lidar research program at the Geophysical Institute, http://www.gi.alaska.edu/splidar, has an undergraduate research assistantship available for a student at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. The undergraduate research assistant will make lidar (laser radar) observations at the Lidar Research Laboratory at Poker Flat Research Range (LRL-PFRR) as part of a team of student and faculty researchers. These measurements are conducted in the evening and nighttime at LRL-PFRR. Transportation is provided. The position provides hands-on experience in laser science and engineering, remote sensing, and environmental sciences.

For more information, contact Project Leader Dr. Richard Collins by email at rlcollins@alaska.edu