Summer Research Experience in the Integrative Biology of Social Behaviors at Michigan State University
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Michigan State University (MSU) is now accepting applications for a new National Science Foundation-funded summer program providing Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) in the Integrative Biology of Social Behaviors. Social interactions lie at the core of animal and human societies and the behavior and physiology of animals are profoundly affected by the behavior of other members of their species. The 12 mentoring faculty members involved in this REU program are engaged in examining an array of social behaviors from a broad range of scientific disciplines.
Program Overview: The Integrative Biology of Social Behaviors is a 10-week summer program that will run from May 20 through July 27, 2013. In 2013, we will be accepting 10 students. This is a full-time program, so students should not take additional courses. Student participants will receive free room and board, round-trip travel expenses to MSU for the program, and a $5,000 stipend for the summer.
Program Activities: Participating students will receive hands-on research experience studying a wide range of model organisms (mammals, fish, insects, and digital organisms) over many levels of organization (molecules, cells, individuals, and populations). Students will also benefit from a weekly journal club and from participating in modules on research ethics, statistics, applying to graduate school, and careers in the biological sciences. At the end of the program, students will present their summer activities at a university-wide undergraduate research symposium.
Application Requirements: Students entering their junior or senior year at any U.S. college or university are eligible. Applicants should have a background in animal behavior and/or biology and should be majoring in a relevant discipline. Applications from women and members of underrepresented groups, including people with disabilities, are especially encouraged.
How to Apply: Applications are due by Feb. 15, 2013 and should be emailed to ib...@msu.edu. Applications must include: a personal statement describing your interests, career goals and the ways in which participation in this program will help you achieve them; a brief resume or curriculum vitae; your college or university transcripts (transcripts do not have to be official); a completed application form (posted on our website); and two letters of recommendation from your professors or employers. Previous research experience is NOT necessary for a successful application.
For more information and the application form, visit: https://www.msu.edu/~ibsb/index.html