Careers

The Stream Ecology Lab offers students and early-career researchers opportunities to gain experience through fieldwork, sampling, and laboratory processing in Illinois. Available opportunities include seasonal field technician positions, undergraduate research, and internships focused on long-term stream monitoring.

Dr. R.W. Larimore Stream Ecology Internship

The Dr. R.W. Larimore Stream Ecology Internship promotes undergraduate research in stream ecology by providing fieldwork and research opportunities focused on Jordan Creek and ongoing stream monitoring.

Learn about the Dr. R.W. Larimore Stream Ecology Internship.

Field Technicians

Field technicians engage in sampling and laboratory processing for ongoing projects. These positions are often optimal for undergraduate students and recent graduates seeking field experience studying aquatic communities.

Inquiries about field technician opportunities may be directed to Yong Cao, Ph.D.

Undergraduate Research

The stream ecology lab welcomes undergraduate students interested in stream ecology research. Opportunities may include course credit or hourly employment.

Course Credit

Students seeking stream research experience can work with the INHS Stream Ecology Lab to develop an independent research project. Students may enroll in NRES 295 Undergraduate Research or Thesis for 1–4 credit hours per semester and may repeat enrollment up to 12 credit hours. Credit is not given for more than 12 total hours of Independent Study (IND) courses applying toward a degree in ACES.

Prerequisites include junior standing, a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or above at the time the activity is arranged, and instructor consent.

Student Hourly Employment

Currently enrolled students may work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year. During the summer, student employees may work up to 40 hours per week if not enrolled in summer courses.

Questions about undergraduate research opportunities may be directed to Yong Cao, Ph.D.