We would love to host undergraduate researchers in the lab.

Some opportunities include:

1. Investigating the effects of forest fragmentation and invasive species on species interactions in a plant-caterpillar-bird network in deciduous forests in Connecticut.
   • Students will be trained in a variety of ecological field techniques, plant and insect identification and community ecology.
   • Students will participate in field surveys and experiments involving caterpillars, plants, birds and deer in forests of Eastern Connecticut, data entry, management and analysis and project planning.
   • Attendance of lab meetings is encouraged
   • Applicants should be prepared to work in the field, including through hot and wet weather.

Preferred Qualifications: Evidence of active interest in biology and the natural environment through formal coursework, previous work experience or extra-curricular activities. Completion of BIOL 1107 or 1108 or similar introductory biology course.

How to Apply: Interested students should email Dr. Robert Bagchi (robert.bagchi@uconn.edu) with a subject line of “Undergraduate Research Opportunities” and with answers to the following questions:

1. What topics in Ecology do you find most interesting?
2. What skills and experiences of yours do you think will help you with your work with us?
3. What do you want to do after you graduate and how might this experience help with that?

Please also attach an up-to-date list of previous qualifications and job experiences (a CV or resume is fine) and a list of completed courses and grades (e.g. an unofficial transcript).

Funding: There are four main possibilities

1. Obtain research funding through a University or external source (e.g., UConn SURF). Check out the Office of Undergraduate Research for opportunities
2. Participate in UConn’s Work-Study Program
3. Work in the lab as part of an Independent Study or Honor thesis course.
4. Volunteer.

Note that we generally encourage students to participate via one of the first three options, although there are situations where volunteering makes more sense. Talk to us about which option makes most sense for you!

We are committed to accepting and training students with diverse backgrounds or without prior research experience.