Welcome to the Evolution, Ecology, and Environment (E3) REU!
We are seeking rising sophomores, juniors and seniors majoring in the life sciences who would like to join a new Research Experience for Undergraduates program based in the Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology (OEB) at Harvard University. Participants of the program will enjoy cutting edge research experiences within the context of a strong mentorship community made up of faculty, graduate students, and peers. In addition, members will participate in a professional development program that is aimed at preparing students for the graduate school application process, building confidence to succeed in graduate school, and exploring long-term career opportunities. These professional development activities will include attendance of the annual Leadership Alliance National Symposium (LANS) research and mentoring conference. The E3 REU is part of a larger umbrella program, hosted by the Harvard GSAS Summer Research Opportunities at Harvard (SROH).
Why E3?
Life has evolved numerous solutions to complex problems posed by past and present environments. In the interrelated fields of evolution and ecology, we study how and why living systems have evolved into their current forms, and how they function in complex environments. This involves both a broad comparative approach that addresses the many different ways that organisms have been able to make a living on the planet, and an interest in deep time that addresses the processes that have shaped living systems as we see them today. Scientists working in evolution and ecology have research interests spanning multiple levels of biological organization, from genetics and development to the functioning of whole organisms in complex ecological communities. This type of integrative biology is more relevant than ever, as we struggle to understand the actual range of biological diversity and how to preserve it. In particular, understanding and mitigating the effects of global climate change are among the most pressing modern concerns. The E3 REU program is designed to build an inclusive and diverse community of science mentorship so that REU participants benefit from the skills and knowledge of their peers in the program, their PhD mentors, and program faculty. We aim to train highly motivated young scientists and to prepare them for successful careers in the broad fields of evolution, ecology, and environmental biology.
