Summer Field Research University of Notre Dame Environmental Research Center (UNDERC)

Hiring Organization: University of Notre Dame Environmental Research Center (UNDERC)
Employment type: Full-Time
Job Location: Notre Dame, IN
Application Due Date: January 28, 2025

Applications are now being accepted for the UNDERC Summer 2025 Field Biology program. UNDERC provides opportunities to promote understanding of field biology and how field research is conducted through 10 weeks in the Northwoods. This opportunity is designed for students with some research experience who wish to conduct their own independent field study at the UNDERC property with the help of a graduate student or faculty mentor. Each student receives housing, travel between the Notre Dame campus and UNDERC, and a stipend ($5000).

 

UNDERC-Track 2: Our Track 2 opportunity is designed for undergraduates with at least one summer or semester of research experience at UNDERC (including Track 1) or elsewhere. An UNDERC-affiliated scientist will mentor each student on the development of a research proposal, implementation of the project, analyses of the data collected and the writing up and presentation of the project at the end of the summer. Research topics are determined by the student with their mentor, but include the following broad areas: Aquatic Ecology, Insect Ecology, Tree Functional Ecology, Small Mammal Ecology, Tree Population and Community Ecology, or Tree Ecophysiology. 

 

The UNDERC facility is owned by Notre Dame and contains 8000 acres of pristine lakes, streams, wetlands, and forests with abundant wildlife. The natural setting and modern facilities provide an unparalleled opportunity for gaining experience in field biology. UNDERC is also the core site in the Great Lakes Region for the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON). UNDERC provides tuition (1-3 optional credits), housing, and transportation between the Notre Dame campus and the site. Acceptance is based on a statement of purpose, past academic performance, and an informal interview with potential mentors to determine shared research interests. Preference is given to students pursuing a career in ecology or environmental science. Applicants are required to be present for the duration of course (28 May through 3 August).

 

Further information can be obtained at the UNDERC website (underc.nd.edu), or from UNDERC Assistant Director Dr. Michael Cramer (mcramer@nd.edu).

 

Applications are available online: (underc.nd.edu/education/undergraduate-field-courses/)

Application deadline is 28 January 2025. Notification of acceptance will be provided by 15 February 2025. Special consideration will be given to Native American and Puerto Rican applicants.

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