Student projects take advantage of the Biosphere 2 research infrastructure, including Landscape Evolution Observatory (LEO) (biosphere2.org/research/research-initiatives/landscape-evolution-observatory-leo), as well as field sites in the Sonoran desert and sky island mountains around Tucson. Projects focus on a variety of topics that include (but aren't limited to): coupling ecohydrology and biogeochemistry, investigating abiotic and biotic contributions to ecosystem processes, integrating measurements across scales, using innovative tools to link climate and ecological function, and modeling of ecosystem and soil processes. Students work with several outreach organizations (e.g., Arizona Institute for Resilience, Water Resources Research Center, Native Nations Climate Adaptation Program, The Indigenous Resilience Center) at the University of Arizona that address local and global environmental challenges.
REU Students receive a competitive stipend, lodging at Biosphere 2's student village, food allowance, and travel to and from Tucson, AZ, as well as support for travel to a professional meeting to present their work. Applications for summer of 2024 (June 3 - Aug 9, 2024) are due March 1st, 2024, and link to application form can be found at: biosphere2.org/education/university-programs/research-experience-undergrads-reu