Glacier and Climate Dynamics Group - Department of Geography

Position Title: Undergraduate Research Assistant
Website:  www.johnerichchristian.org
Application Instructions: DO NOT apply through HandShake as materials will not be forwarded. See “How to Apply” section below for submission information

Research Environment and Project Description:
Glaciers and ice sheets are dynamic components of the Earth System, and are changing rapidly. Making sense of these changes requires an understanding of how ice flow dynamically responds to climate variations. Research in the new Glacier and Climate Dynamics Group targets the physical interactions between ice and climate, using theory, computational models, and data analysis. The goal of this research is ultimately to improve interpretations of observed glacier change, and predictions of future change.

Role and Responsibilities:
This position is related to an NSF-funded project investigating changes of the Greenland ice sheet over the last century. Potential student research areas would be either a) analyzing relationships between topography and ice flow using an existing computational model, or b) analyzing the climate drivers relevant to glaciers in Greenland, using climate-model output and other datasets.
  
Time spent developing research skills and knowledge of the field of glaciology is also considered part of the role. A desired outcome is a research result that would be presented at the Undergraduate Research Symposium (spring 2025) or, ideally, a professional conference in AY 2024-25 (for which travel support would be provided). The position is full time over 8-10 weeks during the summer, with a preferred start date by July 1.  Payment is $4950.00 total.
 

Preferred Skills and Attributes:
Students from a variety of majors with a strong quantitative background (ideally coursework including calculus) may be well-prepared for this research. Some previous coding experience is desired, although advanced coding skills are not required. Coursework in Physical Geography or Earth Science is helpful but not required; most important is a strong curiosity and interest in applying quantitative methods to understand glaciers and climate. Interested students with further questions are welcome to email Professor John Christian at jchr@uoregon.edu

How to Apply & What to Include:
DO NOT submit your application through HandShake. Your materials will not be forwarded. Email the following information directly to Professor John Christian (jchr@uoregon.edu) to apply.

• Resume and cover letter that expresses your interest in the position
  • Note any relevant skills and experience that you posses and how it will directly contribute to the position
  • The cover letter can be within the body of your introductory email and resume as a PDF attachment
• Please also include a unofficial transcript

PLEASE NOTE: The posted expiration date that is noted is for job viewing only. Applications will be reviewed on a first come, first serve basis. Please DO NOT wait until close to, or on the expiration date to apply.

For any additional resources on resume and cover letter development, visit the UO Career Center website at: https://career.uoregon.edu/resumes You are also welcome to  visit the Undergraduate Research and Distinguished Scholarships drop-in hours for any additional guidance needed.