Do you love the Earth? Want to see it continue to flourish into the future? Come join the Biodiversity and Conservation Genomics Center with Jill Wegrzyn and Rachel O’Neill labs for a year-long intensive research training program! You will work with a small team of graduate and undergraduate student mentors to assemble and analyze the first genome for a local species of conservation concern. In addition to gaining skills in bioinformatics, molecular biology, and conservation biology, you will receive mentorship in applying for summer funding (e.g. UConn’s OUR SURF, IDEA, EEB URGs Undergraduate Summer Fellowship) and partake in discussions about how genomics can assist conservation.
No prior research experience required. Applications from students from underrepresented groups and students who are interested in continuing research after AY23-24 will be prioritized.
Internship schedule:
Session | Internship | Modality | Time commitment | Pay / Credits |
Summer 2023 | Training | Online | 10-20 hours/week | Pay |
Fall 2023 | Research | In-person | In-person meeting 1x/week 10-15 hours/week | Pay or 3 EEB/MCB Research Credits |
Winter break | Summer 2024 SURF Application | Online | In-person meeting 1x/week 10-20 hours/week | TBD |
Spring 2024 | Research | In-person | In-person meeting 1x/week 10-15 hours/week | Pay or 3 EEB/MCB Research Credits |
Spring 2024 | Conservation Genomics Journal Club | In-person | Weekly 1 hour meeting + reading | 1 EEB/MCB Seminar Credit |
Summer 2024 | Research (if SURF award received) | TBD | Full time (30-40 hours/week) | Stipend (~$4,000) |
To apply please complete the following application by Friday, March 24, 2023:
Application (deadline 3/24): https://forms.gle/rRYhiMQeRhscx1Qb9
Current intern testimonials:
“Working with the conservation genomics team has helped me immensely, especially when it comes to personal goals. Beyond learning wet and dry bench skills, I feel that our team creates a great support system that is preparing me for graduate school, helping me write grant proposals, and expanding my skills. And it doesn't hurt that everyone is friendly!”
"Being a part of the Conservation Genomics Center has been a well-rounded opportunity for me to dive into research and propel my bioinformatics skills. The cohesion of working collaboratively within the team and working independently on the project allowed me to advance skills beyond science, in areas such as communication, critical thinking, and time management. The projects are relevant to our current biodiversity crisis and feel impactful outside of the University which is a fulfilling experience!"
“As a member of the conservation genomics team, working with my colleagues has been an incredible experience! Not only have they helped me develop my technical skills, but I've also gained a network of amazing friends and mentors. Learning from experienced researchers has been especially helpful in preparing for my future academic pursuits, like graduate school and job opportunities. On top of that, my colleagues and mentors have taught me so much about complex scientific ideas, how to ask insightful questions, and even allowed me to develop my creativity. I've also gained valuable experience in genome assembly and annotation, among other highly in-demand technical skills. But what sets our team apart is the supportive and collaborative atmosphere we've created. Coming to work every day is not only productive, but it's also a lot of fun!”
For more information, contact: Michelle Neitzey/MCB at michelle.neitzey@uconn.edu