This award provides support to establish a Research Experiences for Undergraduates Site at the University of Georgia, Savannah River Ecology Laboratory (SREL). The goal of this REU program is to provide research experience, training and career perspective for undergraduate students through the use of unique field sites, laboratory facilities and the association and active involvement in research with full-time research ecologists. Project participants will examine the influence of by-products of nuclear and fossil fuel energy production on selected biological and chemical properties in southeastern ecosystems. SREL faculty members, all actively engaged in research and publication, will be paired with students having compatible research interests. Student projects, while distinct and independent, are portions of ongoing research programs of SREL. The student experience is enhanced by interaction with a programmatic team comprising individuals with a diversity of ecological backgrounds, interests and ideas. Applicants from minority schools and regional institutions with limited research programs will continue to be actively encouraged. Participant selection is based upon the quality of an application, letters of recommendation and academic record. Through the research training of more than 380 undergraduate participants over the past 22 years, SREL has created a highly successful program of student/advisor interaction.
