REU Site: 25 years of Undergraduate Research in Evolution and Systematics at the American Museum of Natural History

American Museum Natural History, New York NY

Investigators

Abstract

This award is funded under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Public Law 111-5). The American Museum of Natural History REU Site will provide a research program for undergraduates during the summers of 2009-2013. Eight students will be selected each year to participate in an intensive 10-week research program in biological systematics and evolutionary questions. Systematics and evolution are central concepts in biological disciplines. Knowledge of the manner in which species are related to each other and the mechanisms by which they become distributed across the globe provide a framework (in evolutionary trees for example) for organizing and communicating ideas regarding biodiversity or comparative genomics. This program provides students with a coherent, hands-on introduction to research in systematics and comparative evolutionary biology, and serves a critical role in attracting, inspiring and educating undergraduate students in the fundamental importance of these biological disciplines. Students enrolled in the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) REU program have at their disposal world-class collections of fishes, dinosaurs, reptiles, amphibians, mammals and invertebrates, as well as cutting edge research facilities in the Molecular Genomics laboratories and the museum's research library. Students are mentored by museum curators and projects variously include use of genetic, histological, anatomical or paleontological data and range from primary taxonomic to integrative phylogenetic studies. Students will also be provided opportunities to immerse themselves in the richness of New York City's cultural institutions and summer venues. Eight students will be selected for a 10 week summer program at the American Museum of Natural History REU program in Systematics and Evolutionary Biology. Additional information can be found at http://rggs.amnh.org/pages/academics_and_research/fellowship_opportunities, or by containing the Program Director, Dr. Mark E. Siddall at 212 769 5638; Siddall@amnh.org.