Thank you for your interest!  The University of South Carolina is excited to host the inaugural class of our Summer NSF-REU Marine Science program in 2013. The overarching theme of our program is Marine Biogeochemistry - from Salt Marshes to the Deep Ocean.

What is "Biogeochemistry"?

Biogeochemistry is the study of interactions between biological, chemical, and geological processes in the environment. In the ocean, these studies often focus on nutrient cycles (like those of carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus and iron) and the role(s) of bacteria, phytoplankton, and marine animals, large and small, in mediating reactions within these cycles. For example, over the last 3.5 billion years, the evolution of photosynthetic processes in cyanobacteria has resulted in the oxygenated environment in which we live - this shows how microbes (biology) control the chemistry of our atmosphere which, in turn, influences many geological processes on Earth (e.g. weathering of rocks, interactions with the atmosphere). 

Our REU program will run from May 26 to August 3, 2013.  Students will have the opportunitity to participate in on-going research projects on a variety of different topics related to Marine Biogeochemistry.  These topics include phytoplankton photosynthesis and growth, bacterial diversity and community function, and nutrient and trace metal cycling.  Over the 10-week period, students will gain hands-on research experience, through developing their own short research proposal,  synthesizing and preparing their research into a formal written report, and giving an oral presentation of their findings.  In addition to their own research, students will participate in weekly seminars covering proposal and paper writting, science communication and outreach, applying to graduate school, and future careers in marine science.

All REU students will receive a summer stipend, on-campus lodging (double room), a meal allowance, support for travel to and from Columbia (up to $500) and funds for scientific supplies (up to $500) that can be purchased by the research mentor.  

To apply, please go to our application link on the side toolbar and follow the instructions.  Please make sure you visit the REU Mentor page to choose faculty mentors (up to 3) whose research interests match your own. Along with the online application, all applicants are required to obtain TWO letters of reference, submitted only by the reference writers.  See the Submit a Reference link for specific instructions.  

Applications have closed.

UPDATE: We've just started contacting successful applicants!! (March 4, 2013).

Questions?? -  Contact:  Dr. Tammi Richardson

Funding for this REU site is provided by the National Science Foundation’s Division of Ocean Science's located in Arlington, VA. The NSF contact for this program is Lisa Rom, elrom@NSF.gov or 703-292-7709. NSF does not handle REU applications; please contact each REU site directly for application information.