2013 UNLV Microbiology REU Application

Undergraduate students are invited to participate in a 10-week summer research program in environmental microbiology. Students will collaborate with faculty mentors in developing and carrying out hypothesis-based projects on microorganisms from diverse habitats such as hot springs, the deep terrestrial subsurface, hypersaline lakes, arid soils, and ephemeral water sources. Students may also choose to explore the mechanisms of magnetotaxis, sporulation, soil-forming processes, microbial adaptation to stressful and non-host environments, or the dynamics between primary producers and consumers. At the conclusion of the program, students will present their research results at a scientific colloquium. Students will receive a $5000 salary, housing, and a travel subsidy. First generation college students and members of an underrepresented group are strongly encouraged to apply.

• Applications will only be accepted from U.S. citizens and permanent residents (Green Card holders).
• Students receiving their baccalaureate degree in May/June 2013 are not eligible for this program.
• The application deadline is Friday Feb 15, 2013. Decisions will typically be made within two weeks.
• Download the podcast for tips on submitting a competitive application.

A complete application consists of the following:

• Application form (This page)
• Current transcript (unofficial are acceptable)
• One letter of recommendation from a professor, graduate student, lab instructor, supervisor in any science, technology, engineering and mathematics discipline. Letters from non-scientists will not be accepted.

All application materials should be sent to:

Written Statements

Note: The REU Selection Committee recommends that all statements be prepared with a word processing program. Applicants should cut and paste their statement into the box below.

Prepare a statement that answers the following questions:

• What are your career goals?
• How will participation in this program assist you in achieving your career goals?
• What relevant courses have you completed?
• Do you have any prior research or work experience?
• Why are you interested in the research projects of the selected mentors?
• Which publications of the selected mentors did you review?

The career statement is the most important part of the application. All applicants should consult the Eduers website for tips on preparing an outstanding statement. It is also recommended to ask the individual that is writing the letter of recommendation to review your statement.

Applicants may use Google Scholar to find the recent publications of the selected mentors. Be sure to mention which publication you reviewed for each mentor. The selection committee realizes that applicants may not understand everything in a mentor's publications, but will be impressed by the additional effort.

Remember that a complete application consists of the following:

• This application form
• Current transcript (unofficial are acceptable)
• One letter of recommendation from a professor, graduate student, lab instructor, supervisor in any science, technology, engineering and mathematics discipline. Letters from non-scientists will not be accepted.

All application materials including the letter of recommendation should be sent to: microreu@unlv.edu