Undergraduate research position spring 2005

We seek a highly motivated upper-level undergraduate with a strong quantitative background to conduct research on seed dispersal by wind in tropical forests. This research is part of an interdisciplinary NSF-funded project to develop and validate mechanistic models of seed dispersal for 50 wind-dispersed tropical tree and liana species. This REU position involves field work, lab experiments, data analysis and potentially modeling directed towards understanding how seed release probabilities vary with windspeed and other factors. The work will be conducted largely independently, under the direction of Helene Muller-Landau in consultation with the other ecologists and atmospheric modelers on the research team. The position is based at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute field station on Barro Colorado Island, Panama, which provides opportunities to attend twice-weekly research seminars and interact with a wide variety of scientists on a daily basis. No background in ecology is required, but interest and willingness to learn are critical for students lacking such background. Students with substantial coursework in mathematics and/or the physical sciences will be preferred. We will pay all travel, room and board, plus a stipend of $300 per week. There is the option of obtaining academic credit for this research through the department of Ecology, Evolution and Behavior at the University of Minnesota. To apply, email a resume, a letter of interest (briefly stating your research interests, scientific background, and professional goals), and the names and contact information for 3 references to Helene Muller-Landau at hmuller@umn.edu. Application review will commence November 1 and continue until the position is filled.