Overview and Who Should Apply
Microbiology of Low Oxygen Ecosystems (MLOxE) at Montana State is a summer research program supported by the National Science Foundation’s Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program. Microorganisms living in the absence of oxygen influence some of Earth's most important environmental processes (e.g., nutrient, toxin, and greenhouse gas cycling), play essential roles in human health, and can provide insight into how life first arose and diversified on this planet. Participation in MLOxE REU will prepare students to help solve pressing scientific problems by understanding the critical role of these microorganisms in ecosystems. Student projects may involve diverse low oxygen systems, such as the microbial habitats of the human body, terrestrial hot springs, or marine oxygen minimum zones. Students will be paired with faculty advisors in the Departments of Microbiology and Immunology, Land Resources and Environmental Sciences, Chemistry and Biochemistry, or Chemical and Biological Engineering. Research by MLOxE faculty (see list below) covers three core areas: 1) Microbial Interactions, 2) Metabolism and Physiology, and 3) Community and Ecosystem Function.
Trisheena Kills Pretty Enemy
Molecular analysis of mammalian gut microbiome - Credit -S. Walk
We seek students who have a passion for science and for applying science to the benefit of their communities and who would enjoy being part of a diverse group of peers who share these passions. All interested students are welcome and encouraged to apply. We particularly encourage applications from American Indian and Alaska Native students, other Underrepresented Minority (URM) groups, or schools with limited research opportunities.
Why Apply?
During the 10-week program, students will conduct lab, field, or computational research and participate in a range of activities. Activities will include team-building field trips, social outings with the REU cohort, educational and career development workshops, and networking designed to empower students to pursue science as a career and to build supportive professional and community relationships. Students will take advantage of these activities while spending the summer in the unique and beautiful landscape of southwestern Montana.
Support for Participants
Participants will receive a stipend of $7000 for the summer. An additional $2000 per student will be provided to faculty advisors to help support student research activities. Students will also receive compensation for travel to and from Bozeman. On-campus housing and 100 on-campus meals will also be provided.
More details at: https://etap.nsf.gov/award/7204/opportunity/11496