Research, The Morton Arboretum

Students in the Center for Tree Science Undergraduate Research Fellowship (CTS-URF)
program spend 10 weeks at The Morton Arboretum under the mentorship of our Research
Scientists and Research Associates. The CTS-URF is designed to engage undergraduate
students in the scientific process through the completion of an independent research project,
falling in one of our major research areas. Students will have the opportunity to indicate their
preference among available mentors at the Morton Arboretum. Our scientists cover a broad
range of topics: basic tree biology, forest ecology, arboriculture, biomechanics, root biology, soil
science, genetics, phylogenetics, systematics, conservation biology, and restoration ecology.
The program endeavors to promote critical thinking, self-confidence, and perseverance, while
helping prepare students for graduate studies and professional careers in science-related fields.
Students participate in weekly activities, such as seminars, field trips, and social events. At the
end of the program, students will be required to prepare a scientific poster and give
presentations of their work in a student research symposium at The Morton Arboretum.
Students also interact with peers in similar REU programs based at the Chicago Botanic Garden
and the Field Museum. For more information on the CTS-URF program and how to apply,
please go to www.mortonarb.org/ctsurf.

The 2018 program dates will be June 11 through August 17. Successful applicants receive a
stipend, an opportunity for housing, and a nominal budget for research. Applications are
accepted from January 1 through February 23, 2018. Application materials to be submitted as
one PDF document include:

1. Cover letter (one page maximum), describing why you would like to participate in the CTS-
URF program, your career goals and how this program will help you meet them, prior research
experience (if any), and your mentor and/or research area preference.
2. Curriculum vitae or resume.
3. Official or unofficial transcripts from your academic institution.

In addition, a letter of reference from an instructor or advisor from your academic institution
should be sent to the following email address: ctsurf@mortonarb.org

Please contact ctsurf@mortonarb.org with questions.