Laboratory of Rachel Gittman, Ph.D.

Gittman Coastal Ecology Lab

We are seeking a motivated undergraduate researcher for hands-on marine ecology research based in Morehead City, NC. The Gittman Coastal Ecology Lab supports students through UNC’s Institute of Marine Science and ECU’s Department of Biology. The research for this position focuses on how marine animals and plants provide support to promote ecosystem resilience to disturbance. The primary project the undergraduate will focus on is the ability of clams to promote recovery of seagrasses after physical disturbance (i.e. enhancing growth rate and recolonization back into disturbed areas). Seagrass restoration has proven to be both challenging and costly, so this project supports a demonstrated research and management need.

Students must relocate to Morehead City for the summer position. We have 1-2 paid summer positions and volunteer or for-credit positions in the summer, fall, and spring. Ideally, the candidate will begin in May and end in August, but dates are flexible. Research may involve long days on the water in somewhat taxing environments; the student must be able to complete many field days during the summer. Preference given to students interested in continuing research (on location or remotely) past the summer.

Applicants will be encouraged to develop their own projects related to this research, or other topics of interest to the Gittman Lab.

Applications or additional questions should be directed to Sarah Donaher at sdonaher@live.unc.edu