REU Site Research Directions: Selected students will collaborate with our team in 1 of 3 research directions:
- Research Track 1: Mapping disparities in flooding & disaster management
- Research Track 2: Mapping marine debris & mitigating impacts on coastal communities
- Research Track 3: Drone mapping and spatial storytelling for coastal and island communities (new for 2018 with an additional NSF supplemental grant)
The research training program is the first of its kind for U.S. undergraduates given its explicit international focus on community geography/GIS and participatory methodologies. Student mastery of geospatial STEM research skills will be accomplished largely through students creating an open and freely available geospatial data infrastructure to address social and environmental disparities related to marine debris and flooding/disaster management in Belize. This objective will include the creation of an online, interactive geospatial data and mapping portal through ArcGIS Online.
What Type of Undergraduate Students Do We Want in Our REU Site? We want undergraduates with the following traits:
- a passion for community-based research
- a desire to engage in a life-changing international field research experience
- a strong and creative work ethic
- a willingness to challenge yourself, while having fun, and being committed to collaborative learning
- an interest in living in Belize for the majority of the summer
- a desire to learn more about all aspects of research
- a willingness to step outside of your comfort zone, learn about yourself, and challenge your world views
The application window is now open for the Summer 2018 REU Site. The priority application deadline is March 2, 2018. Please begin your application using our Google form at https://goo.gl/forms/dB329rR8HposEV8O2.
A complete application includes: 1) an application form through Google Forms, 2) submission of a personal statement (limited to 3 double-spaced pages) and unofficial transcripts as attachments to belizereusite@gmail.com, and 3) submission of 1 reference letter from a faculty, employer, or mentor to belizereusite@gmail.com. The reference letter should be sent directly by the writer of the letter, not the REU student applicant. Applications materials should be addressed to Dr. Timothy L. Hawthorne (REU Principal Investigator). Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Potential candidates may be contacted for a follow-up Skype interview within one month of the priority application deadline. Learn more about the application process on our application instructions page. Watch the REU Site Video below to gain a better understanding of the creative approaches we utilize in our international research.