NSF-Funded Summer REU: Investigating Morphological Diversity of Frogs and Toads

The Moen Lab at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater is seeking applications from a group of highly motivated and diverse undergraduate students to conduct independent research projects concerning the morphological diversity of frogs and toads under the supervision of a postdoctoral mentor.

As part of the program, the successful applicants will be trained to conduct scientific research and receive mentoring to advance their careers as scientists. Successful projects may lead to future research opportunities in the Moen lab and publication of a manuscript. Successful applicants will also receive a $3600 stipend and housing through OK State University.

Brief description of the program
The program runs for 8 weeks, from 1 June – 24 July 2020. Students will work with a research mentor to choose a project, collect and analyze data, and present the results of the project at the end of the summer. Students will also travel to the Biodiversity Institute at the University Kansas to see one of the world’s largest amphibian collections, select specimens for research, and talk to curators and graduate students about collections-based research and careers. 

Research projects will focus on the evolution, morphology, and mechanics of movement of anurans (frogs and toads). Potential subjects include:

(1) The relationship of body form and function
(2) Evolutionary biomechanics
(3) Macroevolution of ecology, morphology, and biogeography

Eligibility:
Currently enrolled, non-graduating undergraduate students majoring in biology, or biology-related discipline are eligible to apply. Previous research experience is desired, but not strictly necessary. Students from historically underrepresented groups in the STEM-related fields are strongly encouraged to apply.

How to apply:
The application will have four parts: a general form, an essay, a transcript, and contact information for a reference. Applications are due March 1st, 2020. Successful applicants will be notified within two weeks following the application deadline.

For detailed instructions, follow this link: 

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeeGsOaVOgftw7nqJNXVvnB9IOBj3Yc01jzlV727VmCTHJdVA/viewform?usp=sf_link

If you have questions or concerns, please contact either the principle investigator Dr. Daniel Moen (daniel.moen@okstate.edu) or his postdoc Dr. Gen Morinaga (gen.morinaga@okstate.edu).