Joining our lab is an exciting adventure that we hope will lead to a passion in science. We are always interested in new students who want to explore the fascinating world of undergraduate research. Before you begin here are a few things to do:
- Take a look at our page and see if any of the topics are of interest to you
- Browse our recent publications and see what sort of techniques and data collection methods we use
Our lab values the hard efforts put forth by students, but we also want ALL students to succeed in their undergraduate tenure. Performing undergraduate research in the OILER Lab is a privilege and treated as such. Additionally, due to the nature of the work performed in this lab, we have stringent dedication/time requirements. Take a look at our requirements listed below:
OILER lab students should be dedicated to the work they are performing and thus:
- Research DOES NOT occur between the hours of 0900-1700hrs. We work long hours, late nights, and weekends
- Our research requires fieldwork, we do not get to plan the weather. Sometimes decisions to do fieldwork are made and very little notice is given (sometimes less than an hour prior to departure). Students are expected to be available for fieldwork (we understand your have other commitments but continually missing fieldwork events may result in your dismissal from the lab)
You DO NOT need to know how to perform certain techniques or know how to do research on
your own. We WILL guide you and help you along the way. However, we do expect you to:
- Be motivated
- Be dedicated
- Be meticulous
- Be respectful
- Be awesome
We have a ZERO TOLERANCE policy concerning respect. That includes respecting the organisms we work with, your classmates, your professors, and your peers. This policy extends BEYOND the classroom, reports of a student being disrespectful to anyone at anytime is grounds for dismissal.