The UNM Sevilleta Field Station is seeking applicants for Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU). Our 2024 program will include at least 10 Ecology and 2 Art REU students. Program dates: May 27 – Aug 2, 2024.

The 2024 Sevilleta Ecology Research application can be found here. 
***please note: There is a typo on application Question #1. The program begins on May 27th.

The 2024 Sevilleta LTER Art application can be found here.

Application deadline is March 1, 2024.

The interdisciplinary REU Site Program at the UNM Sevilleta Field Station in central New Mexico will train undergraduate students who will conduct independent research under the guidance of faculty, staff researchers, and advanced graduate students in Biology, Ecology, Civil Engineering, and Earth and Planetary Sciences from University of New Mexico, New Mexico Tech, and New Mexico State Universities, along with scientists from U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. The summer program includes:

  • training computer programming and statistical analysis in R,
  • a weekly science communication workshop focused on journal reading, ArtScience literacy, and discussions with federal land managers,
  • a weekly seminar series and social potluck,
  • professional development workshops,
  • public speaking workshops,
  • ethics training,
  • field trips around New Mexico,
  • an annual symposium,
  • and opportunities to interact with a multitude of scientists conducting research in the area.

Students will conduct independent research in and around the Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) and present their projects at the annual symposium to be held in early August 2023. Working at the UNM Sevilleta Field Station and Sevilleta NWR site invites close interactions among students, faculty, federal scientists, and graduate students.

Students will have numerous opportunities to share ideas and explore issues within and across disciplines. The program’s goals are to (1) provide students with a high quality independent research experience, (2) expose students to a large, multidisciplinary research program, (3) inspire students to continue into professional careers, and (4) prepare students for the rigors of graduate school, professional research, and responsible citizenship. The program exemplifies the integration of research and education. As students conduct research, they will learn how to be independent scientists, and they will gain experience dealing with many technical, methodological and ethical issues that arise in scientific research.

In addition to the ten Biology REUs, two Art REU students (funded through the Sevilleta Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) program) will be selected for summer of 2024. The goals of Art REU students will be to observe and interpret the ecology, research, and landscape of the SNWR through the creation of artistic works. These artworks will be used to cultivate the understanding among the general public about the goals of University of New Mexico and Sevilleta NWR in studying, restoring, and protecting the ecology and landscapes present within the Sevilleta NWR. Final artworks will be displayed and maintained in facilities under the care of UNM.

Lodging and laboratory/studio space for all REU students will be provided by the UNM Sevilleta Field Station at NO COST to the student. In addition, candidates chosen will receive a stipend of $5000-6000 and a $500 food allowance during the 10-week summer program that will run from May 27– Aug 2.  We will also refund travel costs to and from the UNM Sevilleta Field Station up to $600 (stipulations apply). Students will have access to a $500 stipend for materials and supplies related to their research or artistic endeavors.

Applications will be accepted from students at any stage of their undergraduate program (freshman to senior) and any discipline, so long as the applicant is interested in the ecology of aridland environments. Students are not eligible if they will have completed an undergraduate degree by the end of Summer 2024.

We encourage applications from students at two and four year colleges, students early in their college career, students that are the first member of their family to attend college, non-traditional students, and students from traditionally underrepresented groups. REU applicants must be U.S. Citizens.