9424110 Cotter Ten women will undertake field and laboratory research to determine the origin of glacial and postglacial deposits in west- central Minnesota. The students will work on related projects using till analysis to determine the origin and glacial history of three problematic deposits. Additionally, paleoenvironmental studies of lacustrine deposits will be expanded to include micropaleontological, palynological and geochemical investigations. A field trip to the Canadian Rockies will illustrate active glacial processes. The culmination of the program, the "Friends of UMM REU" conference, provides the opportunity for the women to present results and discuss ideas with experts in the field. Facilities at UMM offer the opportunity to develop collegial ties with other undergraduate researchers, and to serve as mentors, instructors, and role models for underrepresented high school students involved in the research projects. The unique opportunity to work in a scientific community where underrepresented groups constitute a majority will break down traditional barriers and aid in maturation of the students as scientists.
