Research Experience in
Urban Environmental Biogeochemistry

The Urban Environmental Biogeochemistry Laboratory at Towson University is pleased to announce that we will be hosting a Summer 2008 Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) site thanks to recent funding by the National Science Foundation. The REU site will be hosted by the Department of Chemistry in close collaboration with faculty from the departments of Biological Sciences and Physics, Astronomy and Geosciences.

Towson University is situated in the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area and is ideally sited to study environmental issues associated with urbanization. Ongoing biogeochemistry projects include:

• evaluation of trace element transport, bioavailability and accumulation associated with highway infrastructure
• influence of road salt on trace metal speciation and toxicity to aquatic organisms
• determination of the relative importance of contaminated sediment and contaminated diet in trace metal accumulation by grazing aquatic organisms
• role of suspended clay in nutrient dynamics of streams along an urban to rural gradient
• effect of metals on microbial degradation of polychlorinated biphenyls in urban sediments
• influence of metals on the mechanisms of carbamate pesticide degradation under urban conditions

The word "biogeochemistry" reflects the fact that the investigation of complex environmental questions often requires a multi-disciplinary approach. These projects involve multiple disciplines as well as collaborations between faculty in different departments. Students can benefit from the input of multiple experts on a project and will begin to appreciate the different tools that these experts bring to bear on complex issues.

Program Structure

This 10 week program will bring 7 students to Towson University for hands-on biogeochemistry research with a focus on urban issues. Ancillary activities include training in professional presentations, seminars by regional researchers and a workshop on environmental ethics. We will also offer organized outings to local areas of interest such as the Chesapeake Bay, Appalachian Trail and the nearby cities of Baltimore and Washington, D.C.

Eligibility

Participants must be US citizens or permanent residents. Students must have a minimum 3.0 GPA and have completed sophomore level courses in Chemistry, Biology, Geology or Environmental Science. Prior experience in multiple disciplines is not necessary but students should be interested in working within an interdisciplinary environment.

Stipends and Benefits

Students will earn a $4500 stipend over the 10 week program. Housing will be provided in 2 to 4 bedroom apartments on Towson University campus along with a meal allowance that can be used at campus dining facilities. Travel to and from Towson will be supported by the program as will travel to subsequent professional conferences where students may present their work.

Contact Us

For more information contact the program director:

Dr. Ryan Casey
Department of Chemistry
Towson University
Towson, MD 21252-0001
T: 410-704-3051
racasey@towson.edu