Description

How invasive hosts alter amphibian disease dynamics

The Johnson Laboratory (http://www.johnsonlaboratory.com) is accepting qualified undergraduates to apply for a National Science Foundation Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) opportunity to work on emerging infectious diseases in amphibians. This project will focus on how invasive species alter transmission and pathology of the amphibian chytrid fungus (see below) and will based out of the Blue Oak Ranch Reserve in the Bay Area of California. The position will begin in early May and continue into mid August 2021.

The Johnson Laboratory is committed to promoting diversity within the sciences. This search is open to all student candidates (that will not graduate prior to June 2021) from any race, color, religion, ethnic, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, age, or veteran status, especially those from underrepresented groups in science.

Research Project: How has the role of invasive bullfrogs as a pathogen reservoir changed in response to drought? The primary objective for this project is to understand how the globally invasive American bullfrog (R. catesbeiana) affects the spread and severity of Bd infections among native amphibians. Specifically, the selected student will survey the prevalence (proportion of infected hosts), intensity (zoospore equivalent load), and zoospore release (shedding) of Bd infection among bullfrogs in comparison with native taxa. By comparing newly collected data with previous samples (2016-2020), the student will use generalized linear mixed models to evaluate how patterns of infection in bullfrogs have shifted in response to drought. The selected REU student will work closely with our collaborative field team in the California Bay Area, where our research into amphibian disease ecology is focused. They will be stationed at the UC Reserve Blue Oak Ranch, which provides individualized housing, laboratory facilities, and a vibrant academic atmosphere. Finally, the selected student will gain experience in sampling amphibians and other aquatic organisms.

To apply: Email an application package that includes (1) a brief statement of interest detailing how obtaining an REU would advance your career goals; (2) a statement of how you will support diversity and inclusion if selected, and (3) a current CV. Please compile the application package into a single PDF and email to dana.calhoun@colorado.edu with the subject title (BD REU application) by April 20^th, 2021. Applications will be reviewed as soon as they are received.

*Please remember ONLY undergraduates that will be continuing their education in fall 2021 can apply (i.e., you must still be enrolled as a student to be eligible)*