In this summer program, students will employ a modern integrative approach to wetland science that makes use of recent technological and theoretical developments across the geochemical, biological, and physical sciences.

Students will conduct research at NGRREC’s state-of-the-art field station in Alton, IL and local field sites situated at the confluence of the Mississippi, Illinois and Missouri rivers. Under the mentorship of NGRREC scientists, students will gain experience in project design, field and lab-based research methods, data collection and analysis, and present results as a scientific paper, create a scientific poster and participate in a public poster session, and showcase their project at our annual NGRREC-REU research symposium to increase science communication skills.

The program will deepen a student's understanding of wetland ecosystems while advancing STEM skills, scientific literacy and ability to think critically about environmental issues.

NGRREC has a range of research labs students will have the opportunity to work in, which house equipment such as water analytics, climate chambers, aquarium arrays, and more.

Projects can include fieldwork - from local wetlands to conservation areas - and study any aspect of the wetland ecosystem, from water and soil quality to plastic pollution.

Our program also has a strong focus on career development, including a career panel, workshops and many opportunities to interact with NGRREC staff from our Research, Education and Outreach divisions.

Students will also gain experience in science communication with the public through involvement in NGRREC's community outreach STREAM series.

The program will provide financial benefits to students, including:

• A living stipend of $8,000.00 and relocation reimbursement (up to $500.00).
• $1,000.00 in research funds per project.
• Room and board