GRADUATE STUDENT RESEARCH FELLOWSHIPS

TROPICAL ISLAND BIOCOMPLEXITY

In 2004, we will continue to develop graduate training at the Gump Station (2003 participants photo below). For graduate students new to Moorea, we offer a limited number of seed fellowships for an interdisciplinary field course introducing Moorea as a model system for studies in biocomplexity. We are also offering junior research fellowships to support graduate students who are already conducting research in Moorea. A limited number of conference bursaries are also available for students presenting their Moorea research at national and international meetings.

Students from institutions and groups historically underrepresented at Gump are particularly encouraged to apply for these programs.

INTRODUCTORY COURSE - TROPICAL ISLAND BIOCOMPLEXITY

Dates: 21 June – 14 August, 2003 (students must be based at the Gump Station for this entire period)

• Archaeology & Anthropology
• Conservation Biology
• Tropical Ecology
• Environmental Science
• Evolutionary Biology
• Geology & Paleontology
• Coral Reef Biology
• Tropical Medicine and Public Health

In recognition of the increased need for interdisciplinary training in the natural sciences, the Gump Station and Pacific Education and Research Laboratories (PEARL) is offering a field course in Tropical Island Biocomplexity for graduate students new to Moorea. The fellowships are aimed at outstanding students who intend to conduct thesis research in French Polynesia. It is open to students in any area of the physical, biological or social sciences, including tropical medicine and public health. The goal is to provide an introduction to tropical island systems and advanced field methods in several related, but historically separate fields of study. Students are expected to develop ideas for their thesis research project and to participate in occasional field trips, discussion groups, and lectures. In addition, students will attend a weekly seminar led by Gump Station researchers, and cultural workshops (dance, language, traditions etc.) led by Tahitian instructors associated with the Atitita Center.

Students will learn about the island of Moorea as a model system in biocomplexity, from its geological origin, through the assembly of marine and terrestrial biotas, to the arrival of humans and the evolution of prehistoric society. We will also consider the impact of invasive species on native ecosystems and other consequences of globalization, climate change, and economic development.

Following the completion of the course, students are welcome to stay on at the Gump Station until September 7, 2003 during which time lodging will be provided by the Gump Station. Students will need to cover their own food and other lab fees during this period.

Eligibility: Up to ten students from any university can participate in the course. Those who are likely to conduct a majority of their graduate research at the Gump Station are strongly favored. The Gump Station welcomes applications from students enrolled in a graduate degree program at any recognized institution. We are particularly interested in increasing participation of underrepresented students. The Station strongly encourages women, minorities and persons with disabilities to compete fully in its programs.

Financial Support: A limited number of full fellowships (airfare, lodging and lab fees) will be available to students from institutions and groups historically underrepresented at Gump. Other students will receive support to cover their lodging and lab fees.

Applications. A 1-page statement of interest and research goals (i.e., a potential thesis project based at Gump) should be sent along with a 2-page CV to Neil Davies. Applications must be attached to an email as PDF. Applications must be received by 16 May, 2004 but reviewing will begin immediately.

Permits: To begin research at the Gump Station (and to obtain a research visa) students should fill out a research application.

JUNIOR RESEARCH FELLOWSHIPS

Long-term graduate students conducting the majority of their fieldwork in Moorea are eligible for support in return for some assistance at the Gump Station. Please contact Neil Davies.

CONFERENCE BURSARIES

Support is available for students to present research they carried out in Moorea at national and international meetings. Please contact Neil Davies.