Biological Diversity

Opportunity:  Research Experience for Undergraduates Intern Position studying forest microclimate and fungal symbiont effects on seedling success

Position period: June 2 – August 8 (10 weeks, flexible on start date)

Location:  H.J. Andrews Experimental Forest, Blue River, Oregon and Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon

Description of the project: This research addresses how interactions between forest species mediates the effects of climate change using a reciprocal transplant field experiment at the HJ Andrews Experimental Forest. While this project is a collaboration between several labs, the position will be primarily hosted by the Busby Lab (https://agmicrobiome.org/) from Oregon State University. This study was established in 2024 and encompasses plots across a range of microclimates from both a range in elevation and fire severity. At each plot we have planted hemlock and douglas fir seedlings at both heterospecific and conspecific focal trees. During this field season, our research has two main goals: 1. Collecting data on forest structure, microclimate, burn severity at the plot and focal tree level. 2. Measuring seedling success with several metrics including height and photosynthetic activity. In addition to the main goals, we may have few other projects related capturing the effects of the abiotic environment on seedlings, including litter decomposition and soil nitrogen mineralization.

Duties include: 1) learn and conduct focal tree measurements including basal area and burn rating 2) learn and assist in seedling surveys including data entry and error checking 3) assist in downloading and maintenance of temperature loggers, 4) co-lead a smaller project such as litter decomposition at focal trees, and 5) assisting in safety duties including gear prep, radio/sign out, and burn area hazard checks.

This internship will provide the undergraduate student an opportunity to participate in 10 weeks of mentored, paid, independent research. The student will interact with scientists, university faculty, federal scientists, and graduate students conducting research in the area. Participants will closely work with faculty, postdoc, and field mentors. The REU student will conduct supervised and guided research and be encouraged to tailor the research project to his/her own interests.

Apartment-style, shared-room housing is provided at the HJ Andrews Experimental Forest field station. The field station is located in the Willamette National Forest near Blue River, OR and provides access to great hiking and mountain biking trails, swimming holes, and other outdoor recreational opportunities. The Andrews Forest is also remote and about an hour away from comprehensive services and stores. The field station community ranges in size seasonally from 40-70 residents, and includes permanent staff, longer term field crews, visiting writers and artists, shorter term research crews, classes and conferences. The Lookout Creek watershed contains old growth coniferous forests, clear fast streams and diverse montane meadows.  It is a beautiful landscape in which to work.  There are also challenges associated with the steep terrain and remote location.      

This position lasts for 10 weeks, June 2 through August 8, 2025 at 40 hours/week. The REU intern will be responsible for 1) meeting all requirements of the mentors and 2) writing a final research report on the research experience. Housing and a stipend of $6,000 will be provided. There are funds to defray the cost of traveling to the H. J. Andrews Experimental Forest. Please note that the REU program is considered an educational program rather than employment; therefore, Oregon State University (OSU) does not provide Worker’s Compensation insurance coverage nor medical insurance on your behalf. You are responsible for your own health insurance coverage.  

Position Requirements: Applicants should have a valid driver’s license, the ability to carry a heavy pack (40+ lb) for moderate distances (5+ mi) over uneven, mountainous terrain, and be comfortable spending long days on their feet in the field. The position will involve working early mornings and in inclement weather. Applicants should have a strong work ethic, be self-motivated, and comfortable with working in remote areas alone. Being a team player is necessary for group work/living situation. Ability to adapt to a variable work schedule is also necessary. Our transects are in steep mountain slopes and across valleys with old-growth forest towering 200 feet or more.

Eligibility: Eligibility is limited to currently enrolled undergraduates that have a graduation date no sooner than fall 2025. All applicants must be U.S. Citizens or permanent residents.

To apply: Please submit a brief cover letter (1 page) indicating your interest, experience and professional goals after graduation, resume or CV, transcripts (unofficial are acceptable), and 2 professional references (names, addresses, phone number, and email address) as 1 pdf document to:  Amelia Fitch. Please include in the subject: HJA REU 2025 Application. Only complete applications will be considered. Review of applications will start April 4, 2025, and continue until a suitable candidate is identified.

The Winter 2025 issue of the Andrews Forest Newsletter is online at https://andrewsforest.oregonstate.edu/publications/newsletter/winter-2025