We are excited to announce the 2019 Simpson College Ecological Research (SCER) Program. The SCER Program will provide hands-on research opportunities for up to 4 undergraduate students working with faculty members Ryan Rehmeier and Clint Meyer in the Simpson College Department of Biology and Environmental Science. The goal of this program is to provide students with critical skills, training, and experience in conducting ecological research. Students will work with faculty mentors to design and conduct experimental research that addresses novel ecological questions. General topics could include ecology of soil, plants, invertebrates, birds, reptiles, mammals, or streams. The primary research site is a 285-acre tract of restored grassland just 25 minutes from campus in the rolling hills of Marion County in south-central Iowa. The site was formerly managed for conventional agriculture but has been restored and currently comprises multiple habitat types (prairie, savannah, stream, wetland, pond, forest).
Eligibility – This opportunity is open to any current Simpson College student who will not graduate before Summer 2019. Preference will be given to students majoring or minoring in Biology or Environmental Science.
Stipend & Housing – Each student will receive a stipend of $4000 over an 8-week period from June 3 - July 26, 2019. Each student would also receive an additional $600 to be used toward summer housing. On-campus housing is available for approximately $12/day.
Application Procedure – The application deadline is March 8, 2019. Students should submit a cover letter stating general research interests, potential career plans, prior research experience; a copy of your degree audit; and the names and contact information (email and phone) for 2 professional references (NOTE: The professional references should not include Drs. Meyer and Rehmeier). Students may be asked to complete an interview as part of the selection process. For more information or to submit your application materials, contact either Clint Meyer (clinton.meyer@simpson.edu, Carver 313B) or Ryan Rehmeier (ryan.rehmeier@simpson.edu, Carver 309).