Architecture of Earthquakes in the Deep Crust: International Arctic Expedition Science for Undergraduates

This NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) is focused on developing skills in arctic geoscience research. Our work will integrate studies of bedrock geology with records of environmental change in a remote, international setting. 

Research projects include: (1) geologic mapping and analysis of Proterozoic metamorphic bedrock and fault geometry to better understand earthquake rupture dynamics and landscape development; (2) lake coring to evaluate post-glacial environmental change and ecological succession during ice retreat; (3) evaluation of nutrient inputs to glacial and pro-glacial lakes; and (4) field calibration of ice albedo on a retreating ice sheet margin. Participants will present their research at a national scientific conference in the fall and prepare an ArcGIS StoryMap to explaining their research experience to the general public. 

Application Deadline: February 12, 2024

Application link: https://www.arcticreu.earth/

Timeline

• April-early May 2024: Weekly online meetings and logistical planning. 
• ~June 15-30: Lab work and orientation, Concord University and Montana State University. Professional development activities. 
• ~July 1-20: Field work based in Sisimuit and Kangerlussuaq, Greenland. 
• ~July 21-Aug 7: Campus-based lab research at Concord University and Montana State University. Professional development activities. 
• September: Three weekly online meetings and final review of research posters; additional career and graduate school mentoring. 
• October or December: Presentation of your research results at a professional conference such as the Geological Society of America or American Geophysical Union with additional career and graduate school mentoring (optional; funding provided). 

Am I Qualified?

Applicants should be undergraduates who are rising sophomore, junior, or senior geology/geoscience majors. Ideally, applicants will have completed or be enrolled in a course in mineralogy, petrology, or Earth materials although this is not required.  Coursework in structural geology and/or field geology or field methods is useful. NSF requires REU participants to be US citizens or permanent residents. 

Participants must have a planned date of graduation no earlier than December, 2024. Because of the late start time, students completing a geology field camp early in the summer might be able to attend this REU. 

We encourage applications from first-generation college students, veterans, and members of underrepresented groups including women, minorities, and native Alaskans.  We also encourage applications from students at community colleges and  from institutions with limited research opportunities.