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Project Overview
Intertidal Ecology Undergraduate Researchers collecting transect data in a quadrat.
Intertidal Ecology Undergraduate Researchers collect biodiversity data in intertidal transects permanently established around Appledore Island as part of a long-term monitoring program using National Park Service protocols. These transects are critical to evaluate the effects of climate change and introduced species in the Gulf of Maine, as well as to document shifts in species distribution and abundance. Researchers identify all species in their transects, analyze transect data, and design future studies. The program provides expertise in New England intertidal organisms, data analysis, and excellent training for employment in marine biodiversity surveys.
Prerequisites
Appropriate coursework in marine invertebrates and phycology is strongly recommended. Previous experience at SML is preferred, but not required. Relevant SML courses include: Ecology & the Marine Environment, Field Marine Invertebrate Biology, and the Shoals Research Apprenticeship.
Project Mentors
Dr. Kylla Benes (Davidson Honors College, University of Montana)
Lauren Pandori (Marine Biologist, Cabrillo National Monument)
Dr. Jennifer Dijkstra (Research Assistant Professor, Center for Coastal and Ocean Mapping, University of New Hampshire)
Dates: TBD
SML Research Symposium: August 9, 2025
Stipend: $TBD
Includes room & board for 3 weeks, and round-trip vessel transportation from Portsmouth, NH to Appledore Island. Researchers are responsible for their own transportation to/from Portsmouth, NH at the beginning and end of the program.
Four researchers will be selected.
To Apply
- Application Deadline: February 10, 2025, 11:45 p.m. Eastern time
- Applicants should be prepared to upload (as separate files): cover letter, resume/CV, and unofficial transcripts. Please use the following naming convention for all files: Last_First Name_file title (example: Smith_John_resume).
- Request two letters of recommendation. At least one letter must be from a professor/faculty member. The second can be from a graduate student TA or employer.
- Undergraduates in all majors may apply.
- Prior relevant field/lab experience preferred but not required.
- All applicants will be notified of their application status by email no later than March 14, 2025.
Note for international students: International students studying in the United States under an F-1 visa are eligible to work as a research intern at SML. Before applying, we encourage students to confirm with their academic institution about their eligibility for off-campus employment through a Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or other comparable program. Students not currently studying in the United States can also apply for a research internship but will be required to secure their own J-1 visa. Information on third-party assistance for J-1 applications can be found at the following website: https://j1visa.state.gov/participants/how-to-apply/sponsor-search.
Questions?
Email shoals.lab@unh.edu