Stream ecosystem metabolism in the context of global change (Reykjavik, Iceland)

A Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) position is available with the Hood Lab for summer 2017 to study stream ecosystem metabolism in the context of global climate change and eutrophication. The REU student will participate in the NSF-funded project “Interactive effects of temperature and nutrient supply on the structure and function of stream ecosystems” at The Ohio State University and in Reykjavik, Iceland. 

The successful candidate will join an international group of ecologists examining the influence of temperature and nutrients on stream metabolism and nutrient cycling. This research takes advantage of the unique geothermal environment in Iceland. Streams in Iceland’s Hengill region exhibit wide variation in ambient water temps due to spatial heterogeneity in geothermal activity. Our research leverages this spatial heterogeneity in stream temperatures to 1) develop theory, grounded in ecological stoichiometry and metabolic theory, for predicting the response of stream ecosystems to climate change and eutrophication, and 2) conduct experiments to understand how the temperature dependence of ecosystem metabolism differs across time scales and nutrient regimes. The student will work as a part of our team in Iceland on collaborative fieldwork and experiments. He/She will also develop an independent project. 

Iceland Project Website: http://www.montana.edu/wcross/Research/Iceland.html

The ideal candidate should be interested in perusing a career in ecology, hard-working, detail orientated, and dedicated to his/her work. The student will start on June 1^st, 2017 in Reykjavik, Iceland. We will provide a stipend of $500/week for nine weeks, round-trip transportation to Reykjavik, and support for lodging in Reykjavik.

Interested students should apply by Friday, February 24^th, but applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Eligible students must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Students who have received their bachelor’s degrees and are no longer enrolled as undergraduates are not eligible. Applications should include an unofficial copy of transcripts, contact information for two academic references, CV, and a one-page statement describing your interest in the REU position, academic goals, and previous research experience. 

Please send applications and questions to:
Lyndsie Collis (Masters Student)
Email: collis.21@osu.edu