Coastal and Environmental Fellowship Projects

1. Coastal and Environmental Fellowship Projects 2019

2. Biological Sciences

3. 1 - Parasitoid-prey interactions Student will work on several different projects exploring various aspects of parasitoid-prey interactions. This will involve a mix of field work, laboratory rearing and experimentation, and trouble-shooting different parts of the experimental process Mix of laboratory (2/3) and field work (1/3) We are looking for 1 fellow to work 20+ hours per week Professor: Evan Preisser

4. 2 - Environmental influences on distribution and life history characteristics of sharks Sharks play an important role in marine ecosystems and their patterns of abundance and distribution greatly influence marine communities through their wide range of interactions with other organisms. Environmental conditions such as temperature, salinity and energy density dramatically influence distribution of sharks and are directly related to their life history characteristics. Large coastal species of sharks are occasionally encountered in recreational and commercial fisheries but patterns of occurrence of these species have not been quantified through systematic surveys in Rhode Island waters.  This program has three goals: 1) investigate species composition of sharks in Rhode Island waters by conducting fishing surveys at a variety of locations in Rhode Island waters; 2) investigate life history characteristics (size at birth, gestation period, litter size, size and age at maturity, maximum size) of prominent species of widely distributed sharks with subpopulations at a variety of geographical locations throughout the world; 3) conduct URI Shark Camp during one week in mid-July. The camp will expose minority students to CELS programs at URI through a combination of campus visits and fishing for sharks from the URI vessel Cap'n Bert. Duties for the fellow will include preparation for the camp, logistics and mentoring campers during one week in July.  The Coastal Fellow will lead a team of students conducting fishing surveys, tagging sharks, recording information on their biology and analyzing catch data to quantify composition of inshore shark fauna and characterize temporal and spatial distribution patterns in local waters. The fellow will also lead the lab-based project investigating geographical life history characteristics of several species of sharks based on data collected from local populations and information gathered from scientific publications. The fellow will conduct a large amount of fieldwork, but also work in the lab analyzing data and will be involved in public outreach with shark camp and possibly conducting interviews with media. The fellow should be comfortable on boats and willing to spend extended time on a small boat dealing with fishing gear and bait. The fellow should be highly organized and capable of overseeing volunteers and constructing schedules for participants helping with fieldwork. Ability to drive from the URI campus to the marina where the boat is located is highly desirable. Professor: Bradley Wetherbee

5. 3 - Phylogeneticsof Coral-algal associations in Caribbean sea fans Shallow water anthozoans, the major builders of modern coral reefs, enhance their metabolic and calcification rates with algal symbionts. Controversy exists over whether these anthozoan-algae associations are flexible across species or habitats. In some cases a single species can associate with several coral hosts across multiple habitats. In other cases, unique associations exist providing their coral hosts with singular metabolic capabilities to cope with environmental variation such as for example unusual increase in temperature. Understanding the nature of these associations is critical to develop science-based conservation strategies as climate change progresses.Within this project the fellow will quantify genetic variation in 15 species of soft corals and their algal symbionts across habitats. Sampling has already been done. The fellow will be trained in basic molecular biology techniques, including DNA isolation, PCR amplification and Sanger sequencing. Depending upon progress, the fellow will also be trained in basic genetic analysis to generate phylogenetic trees and understand patterns of association between the coral hosts and their symbiotic algae across habitats. The position involves mainly working in the lab using basic genetic techniques such DNA isolation, PCR amplification and Sanger sequencing. The second aspect is related to analyzing those data to generate phylogenetic trees. This second part involves computational work. NOAA initially funded the project; funds that were used for field work and the initial genotyping of the colonies. Professor: Carlos Prada

6. 4 - High temperature limits in marine invertebrate embryos The project involves studying developmental mechanisms in tunicate (Ciona intestinalis) and oyster (Crassostrea virginica) embryos subjected to high water temperatures. The aim is to understand what the developmental factors are that limit normal embryogenesis to a certain temperature range. The fellow may perform various lab techniques such as in-situ hybridization, live embryo imaging with fluorescent reporter transgenes, and cellular stress assays. There are no prior experience requirements, but some lab experience is a plus. This project consists of primarily laboratory and some field work, (collecting of animals). Professor: Steve Irvine

7. 5 - Distribution of marine ecological engineers in New England Engineering species are a vital component of many ecosystems and have strong influence on the surrounding environment. In this project, we will map using existing literature sources and field surveys the distribution of species known to act as engineers (e.g. bivalve reefs, polychaete worm reefs, large structure forming seaweed beds) within Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island and New England. A suitable candidate will have an interest in learning to develop their skillset in: 1) Geographical Information Systems, 2) systematic literature reviews, 3) data mining and working with historical datasets. This position will require a mixture of computer-based, library-based and field-based research. Professor: Andrew Davies

8. 6 - How do multiple coastal stressors structure the genomic diversity of marine populations? We will be raising larvae of the eastern oyster (Crassostreavirginica) over their entire larval duration. Larvae will be raised in three treatments: control conditions, high intensity diel-cycling of hypoxia and pH, and low-intensity diel-cycling of hypoxia and pH. We will measure larval growth, respiration, larval survival, and metamorphosis success. Lastly, we will be taking samples of larvae and preserving them for genetic analysis. The position involves primarily work in seawater, wetlab facilities. Professor: Jonathan Purtiz

9. Cell & Molecular Biology

10. 7 - Comparative analysis of genome-scale metabolic models Computational modeling of metabolic networks is an emerging technique in microbiological studies, which enables the application of genotype-phenotype simulations into guiding our discoveries of some fundamental molecular processes in microbial stress responses. In this project, students will acquire hands-on trainings in the comparative analysis of metabolic networks encoded by organisms adapting to a variety of temperature and nutrient conditions. The goal is to identify molecular pathways that correlate with stress responses or adaptations of several organisms at the bacteria and archaea domains. Successful candidates are required to have course preparations in microbiology, biochemistry, or related fields. Familiarity with using command line applications on the computer is preferred but not required. The project primarily involves work in computer labs. Professor: Ying Zhang

11. Fisheries, Animal and Veterinary Science

12. 8 - Improving Disease Resistance in Oysters The goal of our research is to develop tools to manage the impact of infectious diseases in oyster aquaculture and fisheries. Students will be involved in projects investigating the molecular mechanisms of disease resistance in oysters and/or how probiotics modulate the immune responses of larval oysters. Students will learn experimental design, how to perform experimental infections of oysters with selected pathogens, basic molecular methods (DNA and RNA extraction), selected assays of immune function, and basic bioinformatics skills. This requires Primarily laboratory, with some field and outreach work. We are looking for 2 fellows; each will be required to work ~40 hours per week. Professor: Marta Gomez-Chiarri

13. 9 - Do marine invertebrate larvae and microplastics mix well together? In this project the student will design and conduct a controlled laboratory experiment which looks at the effects of microplastics on marine invertebrate larvae (most likely sea stars). The work will be conducted in Kingston Campus Aquarium/labs. The student will be responsible for the experiment using animal husbandry for rearing larvae, and conducting regular survival, food and plastic counts. Larvae will be sampled and photographed, and using image analysis growth will be quantified. Preliminary trials will be conducted such as filming feeding behavior of the larvae, investigating the plastic materials used or working with adult invertebrates with some visits to the Bay campus aquarium potentially being required. This project will provide the EC Fellow with highly transferrable employable skill sets which will also have relevance to their studies. This project is primarily lab work. Professor: Coleen Suckling

14. 10 - Exotic Animal Behavior Analysis? The fellow selected for this project would learn to objectively quantify animal behavior from video recordings using specialized software. The primary focus of the project will be to analyze social interactions among beluga whales at Mystic Aquarium. The fellow may also analyze video of New England cottontails at Roger Williams Park Zoo for breeding behavior. No prior training is necessary, although preference will be given to students who have taken AVS 343 or AVS 344X/443. This project is primarily computer based work. Professor: Justin Richard

15. 11 - Apoptosis and disease resistance in oysters The long term goal of this project it to develop tools to manage the impact of infectious diseases in oyster aquaculture. The role of the fellow will be to determine how parasites interact with the blood cells of oysters in order to infect them, and to evaluate differences in these responses between breeds of oysters that are either resistant or susceptible to the parasite. This project is primarily laboratory work. Professor: Marta Gomez-Chiarri

16. 12 - Probiotics for shellfish aquaculture The long-term goal of this project is to develop tools to manage the impact of infectious diseases in oyster aquaculture. The role of the fellow will be to determine the ability of probiotics to prevent disease in oyster hatcheries. This project is primarily laboratory work. Professor: Marta Gomez-Chiarri

17. Geosciences

18. 13 - Innovative treatment technologies- Floating Wetlands Stormwater pollution is the most significant threat to water quality in southeast New England. It causes closures of beaches and shellfish beds, degrades wildlife habitat, and threatens drinking water supplies. With every rain, storm drains carry various contaminants directly to local streams, ponds, and Narragansett Bay with no or only minimal treatment. With 60% of the Bay’s watershed in Massachusetts, solutions need to be implemented across both states. Small ponds that detain stormwater often provide inadequate treatment and minimal if any habitat value. Floating islands of native wetland plants within such ponds offers an innovative approach to a common stormwater problem. I propose to integrate approach of field and mesocosm studies to remediate contaminants from stormwater and in wet detention ponds (primarily man-made structures) in Rhode Island (RI), and sharing of this innovative approach. The proposed work will particularly emphasize using waste materials to remediate water pollutants. The position will entail lab, field and public outreach work. Professor: Soni Pradhanang

19. Graduate School of Oceanography

20. 14 - Colors of the Coastal Zone In this project, the fellow would work with a senior graduate student to build a sensor that measures the color spectrum of underwater sunlight. The sensor will be deployed in Narragansett Bay and then the data will be compared with the color spectrum measured by NASA satellites. The fellow will gain experience in technology development, data analysis and coastal field work. Some coding knowledge is preferred but not required. The project involves elements of ocean engineering - the student should have an interest in this field. The position involves 50/50 laboratory and field work. Professor: Melissa Omand

21. 15 - Plankton and nutrient dynamics at the mouth of Narragansett Bay In fall 2016, Narragansett Bay (NB) and Rhode Island Sound (RIS) experienced a significant planktonic bloom of toxin producing Pseudo-nitzschia spp. that led to closures of shellfish harvesting. The bloom occurred primarily in mid and lower NB with its longest duration in RIS. Shellfish managers raised the possibility that the source of this harmful algal bloom was outside of the local region. The main objective of our current work is to determine the potential for intrusions of RIS water to carry harmful algae and nutrients into NB. This work is done through a combination of field sampling and hydrodynamic-ecosystem modeling.The Coastal Fellow will primarily participate in the sampling effort around the lower Bay and RIS, and help process plankton and mussel samples, thus field, laboratory, and microscope work.The fellow should come with a strong enthusiasm for the marine environment, be willing to start sampling days with the sunrise, and not be afraid of working on the water. Knowledge of how to use a microscope, a plus. Professor: Lucie Maranda

22. Marine Affairs

23. 16 - 3D Storm Impact Visualizations The Marine Affairs Visualization Lab and the Information Technology Services Lab are looking for two new Student Technology Assistants (STAs). The students will be hired through the Coastal and Environmental Fellows Program for the summer (20 hours/week) doing primarily lab work. Students may continue to work as STAs or interns during the 2019 - 2020 academic year. (a) The students will create 3D models/visualizations associated with existing 'Storm Surge Inundation' STA project. (b) The students will learn the 3D modeling and animation applications Rhino, Rhino Terrain, and Maxwell 4. (c) The students will learn to work with GIS, LiDAR, and possibly other data collection and analysis methods.(d) Students will work faculty, staff, researchers, and fellow students, in a highly professional environment on the URI main campusRequirements:- Commitment to work over the summer and the 2018/19 academic year- Interest in the intersection of coastal management, policy, and technologyPreferred:- Experience with GIS- Experience with coding- graphic design skills Professor: Austin Becker

24. 17 - Understanding Recreational Saltwater Angling at Block Island Wind Farm The student will work on a qualitative research study, which seeks to understand recreational saltwater angler's experience with the Block Island Wind Farm. The fellow will transcribe audio recorded interviews and perform some preliminary coding of this qualitative data. Other data collection or analysis tasks may be required. This project will primarily involve working on a computer at home or in a URI office. Professor: David Bidwell

25. 18 - An Assessment of Disaster Risk for Critical Coastal Infrastructure in Caribbean Island Small Island Developing States Caribbean decision makers need state of the art tools and data to plan for a disaster-resilient future. This research will enhance decision-making capacity by providing a hurricane and sea level risk assessment vulnerable coastal infrastructure. These include airports, beaches, cruise ship terminals, power plants and maritime infrastructure that are vital for island economies and access. The Caribbean is one of the most natural-disaster prone regions worldwide. In the 2017 hurricane season, it suffered extensive damage to structures and critical services (e.g., water, telecommunications, energy and transport). Such hazard events pose significant risk to sustainable development as well as major economic sectors (e.g. tourism, agriculture and international commerce). The approach creates a method to identify and geo-spatially classify critical coastal infrastructure in a standardized and replicable fashion. Using input from infrastructure managers, it will establish a new standard to create geospatial data to assess infrastructure change, risk, and other research questions suitable for the regional scale, but with sufficient resolution such that individual facilities can utilize the data for local-scale analysis. Specifically, the approach creates, delineates and validates coastal infrastructure components so that exposure and risk can be determined. This work will facilitate and support the development of local and regional plans for resiliency of these critical assets and help decision makers prioritize resilience investment decisions in the coming decades.  Research will be conducted at URI, though we collaborate with colleagues in the Caribbean, thus there could be future opportunities to conduct field work in the Caribbean; (not part of the summer scope, though).The Fellow will assist in the creation of new data for the project. GIS experience is required, but one intro GIS course would be sufficient. Professor: Austin Becker

26. 19 - Modeling Combined Coastal and Inland Impacts from Extreme Storms University of Rhode Island’s (URI) Graduate School of Oceanography and Marine Affairs Department have created storm models able to predict any storm’s impacts on individual Rhode Island facilities in near real time. To take advantage of these models and increase Rhode Island’s storm preparedness, URI and the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency are determining how coastal town’s critical facility managers (FMs) perceive their assets as being vulnerable to quantifiable storm forces in a format that can be incorporated into URI’s storm models. URI’s storm models require: a point of concern (for example, a fire department’s communication antenna), the point of concern’s precise location (in latitude and longitude), the storm force that would cause the impact to happen (winds above 100 mph) and the impact of the storm force on the point of concern (the fire department is unable to communicate with emergency responders). This information is being collected through semi-structured interviews guided by a storm scenario and Google Maps with facility managers.The specific tasks for the CEF have not yet been determined. Applicants should have a strong interest in coastal resilience and coastal hazards. Knowledge/experience with coding and R a plus, but not required. This position potentially involves field work (interviewing facility managers) and work at URI. Professor: Austin Becker

27. Natural Resource Sciences

28. 20- URI’s Cooperative Extension Water Quality Program - Private Well Water Outreach The URI Home*A*Syst Program is an award winning voluntary residential pollution prevention program. We provide workshops, publications, and other educational resources and tools tocommunities and organizations to promote informed decision-making. We work in partnership with others to train residents to take actions to protect their health and the environment.This position is a great opportunity for undergraduates with a passion for public education and outreach. Skills Gained:• Organize and coordinate special events throughout Rhode Island• Gain knowledge about Cooperative Extension, education and community outreach• Improve public speaking skills, office and organizational skills• Opportunity to network with partnering agencies and community organizations Primary Duties and Essential Job Functions:• Attend 3 - 4 community events each week (e.g., farmers’ markets, RI Home Show, etc) in targeted areas to set up a table/tent, hand out information, and educate the public on drinking water pollution prevention• As applicable, attend and set up evening educational workshops (see website for schedule at http://web.uri.edu/safewater/workshops/)• Assist in delivering information and coordinating programs as they develop Preferred Skills:• Reliable, able to work independently and productively • Excellent oral and written communication skills• Comfortable with public speaking• Science background with the ability to learn handouts and materials• Valid driver license and reliable vehicle This position requirespublic outreach work in the field - at community events, farmers markets, public workshops. Professor: Alyson McCann

29. 21 - How social cues and body composition affect American Woodcock annual cycle spatial ecology Since the 1960’s, American Woodcock have declined in Rhode Island and throughout North America, as young forest habitat has decreased in abundance. Recognizing this decline, Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management has worked to create and establish young forest in order to mitigate losses of both young forest, and American Woodcock. Much of the focus of Rhode Island woodcock management has been on identifying areas most likely to be used by woodcock in Rhode Island, and as such where to create new early young forest habitat. However, with the advent of new GPS tracking technology, it is now possible to track birds throughout the majority of the year, if not entirely over the annual cycle, and identify areas most likely and least likely to be used by Woodcock on both the wintering and breeding grounds. By tracking woodcock both using radio-transmitters and GPS tags, we hope to be able to create resource selection functions for the same individual on their wintering and breeding grounds, while also tracking the fall migration of Rhode Island breeding woodcock. The majority of fieldwork will involve tracking and mapping locations of 30-40 American Woodcock with radio antennae and GPS units, in an effort to establish homeranges, and habitat selection. Other methods involved with this fieldwork will include surveying, setting up mist nets, banding and attaching VHF transmitters to captured American Woodcock. Spring and summer fieldwork will consist of surveying, capturing, and tracking and locating released birds. In September, to conclude the field season, we will be locating radio-tagged individuals with spotlights, catching them and exchanging VHF transmitters for GPS transmitters. This will allow us to establish movements over an entire year, by combining data from VHF transmitters and GPS tags. As a coastal fellow this will include primarily field work. The position requires individuals who can walk long distances quickly, work outside in hot, cold, and rainy conditions, and conduct research in habitats with biting insects and wetlands. We are seeking individuals who are careful with data collection, are hard-working, responsible, and enthusiastic about wildlife conservation. In addition, any experience with skills such as mist-netting, radio-tracking, or habitat assessments are an asset. The field season will operate from May to late September of 2018, although coastal fellows are always welcome to help catch woodcock in March and April, as well. Professor: Clayton Graham

30. 22 - Monitoring Populations of Endangered Salamanders in New Mexico This project is testing new methods for monitoring populations of the endangered Jemez Mountains salamander on federal lands high in the mountains of northern New Mexico. Our team will conduct surveys for salamanders, including searches beneath logs and rocks and artificial cover objects during the day, and on the ground surface at night. We will also assist the national park with surveys for leopard frogs and other threatened species. Fellows must be physically fit, capable of carrying a 30-pound pack, and hiking on steep slopes, often without trails, above 8000 feet elevation. At high elevations, conditions can be hot and dry or rainy and cold. Previous field experience is required and the most important qualities are a person who loves the outdoors, appreciates a physical challenge, and can maintain a positive attitude in challenging conditions. Preferred qualifications include backpacking and camping experience. 95% is field work, and 5% is lab work. Public outreach is possible, (not required), if fellow is interested. Professor: Nancy Karraker

31. 23 - Onsite wastewater treatment systems: Nitrogen removal and resilience to climate change The Laboratory of Soil Ecology and Microbiology (PI: José Amador) is accepting applications for one 20-hour Coastal Fellow position for the summer of 2019. The fellow will have the opportunity to work on three different PhD student projects: Alissa Cox: “Effect of sea level rise on coastal onsite wastewater treatment systems, and assessing plant-uptake of nutrients and associated microbial communities in drainfields”. This project is investigating changes in groundwater tables along the southern RI coast, as affected by sea level rise. Rising groundwater tables are expected to reduce the amount of soil available to treat wastewater under onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS, also known as septic systems), before entering the groundwater. This component of the project involves fieldwork (ground-penetrating radar (GPR), groundwater table measurements, site visits) and data analysis. A second component of this project is investigating how much nitrogen and phosphorus grasses take up from shallowly placed pressurized drainfield laterals. This component will involve fieldwork (collecting vegetation samples, soil cores) and lab work (DNA extractions, PCR, sequencing).Bianca Ross: “Assessing nitrogen-removal in onsite wastewater treatment systems”. This project will focus on the study of wastewater in advanced nitrogen-removal onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS). We will be quantifying many wastewater properties, including effluent nitrogen content, pH, and temperature. The coastal fellow will assist in monitoring system/wastewater parameters in the field. In addition, the fellow will assist in laboratory analysis of the wastewater obtained from these systems. We will assess OWTS performance and evaluate which wastewater properties can be used as predictors of effluent nitrogen content.Sara Wigginton: “Factors and mechanisms controlling Nitrogen removal from layered soil treatment areas”. The aim of this project is to investigate how layered soil treatment areas perform in the removal of N from onsite wastewater treatment systems. We will be investigating how system design, soil properties, water quality, and microbial community assemblage alters N removal. We will also be monitoring nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions-- a common byproduct of N removal from wastewater. A portion of the project will involve field sampling (soil cores, greenhouse gas samples) in Barnstable County, Massachusetts, but the bulk of the research will occur at URI. A major component of this project will be assessing the microbial community (who drive N transformations) through molecular lab work.We are looking for candidates with the following qualifications / interests / willingness to learn: • Interest in wastewater, nitrogen cycling, and/or microbiology• General environmental lab work skills, or strong attention to detail and diligence / perfectionism• Experience or interest in DNA extraction, PCR, and/or genomic sequencing• Environmental field sampling techniques• Reliable transportation• Flexibility, and willingness to work both indoors and outdoors This experience is 60% lab work and 40% field work Professor: Jose Amador

32. 24 - Monitoring the Pawcatuck River after dam removals In the Northeast US, dams are being removed at a rapid rate as the structures age thereby becoming safety concerns and as improvements to fish passage have become more desirable. With the large cost involved in the dam removal process, finances are often slim for post-removal monitoring. The URI Watershed Hydrology Lab (WHL) has been monitoring two different dam removal projects along the Pawcatuck river designed to increase passage of important anadromous fish species. The WHL’s Coastal Fellow will assist with both projects. At the beginning of the summer, there will be an opportunity to participate in a fish tracking project – capturing tagged fish and downloading telemetry data at several locations along the river. The Coastal Fellow will also participate in the third year of data collection on wetland plant communities, stream morphology, and sediment characterization on established transects along the Pawcatuck River. The Coastal Fellow will be working daily with graduate students in the field. There may be opportunity for training with National Park Service and/or US Fish & Wildlife staff.We would like to have a student who is very comfortable with field work (in all kinds of weather) and being on the water. Some experience with canoeing or kayaking (or willingness to learn) is a plus. Experience in plant morphology and ID is a plus (e.g., taken Field Botany (even this summer) or Wetland Ecology). May need to drive periodically to research sites in own vehicle with mileage reimbursement. A detail-oriented person is ideal. This experience is 60% lab work and 40% field work Professor: Art Gold

33. 25 - New England Cottontail Conservation Genetics The New England cottontail (Sylvilagustransitionalis) is a species of conservation concern and the focus of a multi-agency and multi-institutional effort to conserve the species. The drastic decline in the distribution of New England cottontail in the Northeast region of the US precipitated the establishment of a captive breeding program in 2011 at the Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence, Rhode Island, which was subsequently expanded in 2015 to include the Queens Zoo in Corona, New York. In 2012, captive born New England cottontails were released on Patience Island in the upper bay of Narragansett Bay. The population has done well on the island and a population estimate was conducted in 2015 and 2017 by extracting DNA from fecal samples and identifying individuals using molecular genetic markers. This project would primarily include learning conservation genetic techniques to extract DNA from fecal samples and identify individuals to estimate the current population size of New England cottontail on Patience Island. This project also may include modeling the population dynamics of New England cottontail on Patience Island. Annually, we collaborate with biologist from the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management Division of Fish and Wildlife to translocate New England cottontail from Patience Island to mainland sites. This information will help state biologists know how many New England cottontail can be translocated from the island. The location of the laboratory work would be at the Wildlife Genetics and Ecology Laboratory in the Coastal Institute on URI’s main campus. Preferred skills are experience conducting molecular genetic laboratory work (such as, DNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis) and course work on wildlife conservation, management, and biometrics. This experience is Lab intensive. Professor: T.J. McGreevy

34. 26 - New England Cottontail Telemetry The New England cottontail (Sylvilagustransitionalis) is a species of conservation concern and the focus of a multi-agency and multi-institutional effort to conserve the species. The drastic decline in the distribution of New England cottontail in the Northeast region of the US precipitated the establishment of a captive breeding program in 2011 at the Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence, Rhode Island, which was subsequently expanded in 2015 to include the Queens Zoo in Corona, New York. In 2012, captive born New England cottontails were released on Patience Island in the upper bay of Narragansett Bay. Members of the Wildlife and Genetics Ecology Laboratory at the University of Rhode collaborate with wildlife biologists from the RI Department of Environmental Management Division of Fish and Wildlife to release captive born New England cottontail and translocate wild New England cottontail from Patience Island to the mainland. This project would include conducting Global Positioning Systems and Very High Frequency radio telemetry on released cottontails to determine their home range, movements, and habitat selection. The project also may include characterizing the habitat within an animal’s given home range at a mainland release site and/or Patience Island. The applicant will have the opportunity to interact with state biologists, US Fish and Wildlife biologists, in addition to personnel from URI. The information gained from this project will help state biologists conserve the species in RI and support the larger regional effort to conserve New England cottontail. The location of the work would mainly be in the field and also include computer work. Preferred skills are experience conducting radio telemetry, fieldwork studying wildlife, course work in wildlife management, conservation, field botany, and Geographic Information Systems. The applicant also must be willing to work outdoors alone in difficult to navigate habitat filled with prickly bushes, poison ivy, and ticks. This experience is comprised of primarily field work with computer analyses. Professor: T.J. McGreevy

35. 27 - DNA barcoding to clarify species interactions on coral reefs The objective of the coastal project is to use genetic methods (DNA barcoding) to clarify the host-parasite interactions between a group of fish (hosts) and small crustaceans (parasitic copepods). We previously used these species as a model system to develop and test theory about how predator-prey and host-parasite interactions control population size. At the time, taxonomists believed the host-parasite interaction involved one copepod species that infected one fish species. Recent genetic analyses (DNA barcoding) suggest, however, that the fish may actually be four species of very similar appearance, which also casts doubt on the classification of the copepod as a single species. The student will collect parasitized fish from the Virgin Islands field site, and combine DNA barcoding with traditional analysis of morphological features to clarify which fish species are present, how many copepod species are present, and who infects who? The proposed project is a critical first step towards testing the ecological causes of population decline. Population declines over the past 40 years are pervasive globally and threaten the integrity of most ecosystems. Conservation biologists argue that habitat-loss is the primary cause of population decline in most ecosystems and our long-term goal is to test new ideas about the causal links between habitat-loss, species interactions and population declines. Specifying the predicted ecological mechanisms for decline hinges on first clarifying whether this is a simple one parasite-one host interaction or a more complex multi-species interaction.  The fellow will work closely with the faculty supervisors (Graham Forrester and Chris lane)We are looking for a coastal fellow who has the following qualifications:1) A passport and willingness to spend roughly 1 week of the summer at an isolated Caribbean field site.2) The ability to obtain AAUS research diver certification by June 2019. See http://www.gso.uri.edu/diving/index.htm, for diving requirements. Applicants with current AAUS research diving certification and some experience (e.g. > 50 logged dives) may be preferred. 3) A strong academic background in ecology and marine biology, and an interest in marine conservation. Willingness to read primary scientific literature and contribute to project design.5) The ability to perform physically demanding field work for long hours each day in a team setting under sometimes stressful field conditions.6) An understanding of basic statistical principles and linear models (such as regression and ANOVA) familiarity with MS Excel and R is preferable.7) Past experience with lab methods for DNA extraction, DNA amplification, and Sanger sequencing may be preferred. This position involves a mix of field and lab work. Professor: Graham Forrester

36. 28 - Monitoring Populations of Toads and Turtles in Rhode Island Spadefoot toads are endangered in Rhode Island and there is a current initiative to create new breeding pools for the species. This Coastal Fellow would be primarily responsible for visiting existing and newly created breeding sites during nights of heavy rain to determine if toads are calling and collect data on breeding activity. During the day, the student would search for eggs and tadpoles and monitor water levels in breeding pools. During drier periods, the Coastal Fellow would work with Dr. Karraker and Dept. of Environmental Management Staff to monitor populations of Eastern box turtles and spotted turtles. The student would aid with trapping and measuring turtles. The Coastal Fellow selected for this project will have had some previous field experience, will need to be independent and motivated, and be capable of hiking over rough terrain and wading through ponds. This position is primarily field work. Professor: Nancy Karraker

37. Public Outreach Projects

38. 29 - URI Watershed Watch URI Watershed Watch (WW) is a Cooperative Extension volunteer water quality monitoring program in the Natural Resources Science Department. We are the largest volunteer monitoring/citizen science program in RI. There are ~350 volunteers in the program, 1 full-time staff and 3-4 students. Each year we take on 1-2 Coastal Fellows as student staff, who are fully integrated into all aspects of the program, from training new volunteers, field monitoring, lab analyses, and data entry to helping out with public outreach. Fellows may choose a project that advances or expands core WW programs, such as cyanobacteria monitoring, microbiology or pollution projects, or advanced lake water quality research. Alternatively, Fellows may work directly with coastal or river watershed organizations on a project of the organization’s choosing. Qualifications: Ability to work in a group as well as independently. Comfortable working in a laboratory and also outdoors. Good computer skills, Excel in particular, are extremely helpful. Must have a valid driver’s license and be able to swim. Attention to details, willingness to read and follow directions and an interest in working with a diverse clientele (our volunteers) and staff are preferred. Interest in water quality, salt or fresh. Interest & courses in the sciences, biological or physical. The position is primarily lab based, but we endeavor to provide our fellows with a broad range of experiences including field and public outreach work. There is the possibility of keeping fellow(s) on the project through the academic year, even through to graduation, if desired. Professor: Elizabeth Herron

39. 30 - Water quality in Little Compton, RI In collaboration with the Little Compton Town Council (LCTC) we plan to conduct a Town-wide hydrological study to provide a quantitative assessment of water resources to help with future town planning decisions. This project focuses on addressing the question: of "what are the seasonal differences in water quantity and quality?" Another related question is "how far is sea water encroaching into the town?" The Coastal Fellow will work with Dr. Boving and the LCTC to collect well water samples, measure electrical conductivity, and play a major role in analyzing the data set. The position will entail mostly field work and some public outreach (work with LCTC on communication results). Professor: Thomas Boving

40. Plant Science & Entomology

41. 31 - Field release and evaluation of Hypenaopulenta, a Biological Control Agent of Invasive Swallow-worts The Coastal Fellow will work in the URI biological control lab (located in the URI greenhouse) to rear the biological control agent for swallow-worts; Hypenaopulenta (a moth species). The student will also conduct field releases and field monitoring for this insect. Release sites will be primarily in RI, MA, and CT. In addition, the student will assist with other projects conducted within the biological control lab including rearing additional insects, plant care and maintenance, and collecting research data in both laboratory and field settings. We have ongoing biocontrol projects for Phragmites, mile-a-minute, knapweed and lily leaf beetle. This position involves approximately 60% lab work and 40% field work, with some exposure to outreach while working at field sites. Professor: Lisa Tewksbury

42. 32 - Sustainable Vegetable Production Research The students working on the Sustainable Vegetable Production Research project will assist with planting, maintenance and data collection/harvest for vegetable variety trials and the teaching/demonstration garden at URI's Gardiner Crops Research Center. Students will also assist with other research projects and general farm maintenance as needed. The URI Vegetable Program conducts applied research to support commercial vegetable farmers and gardeners in RI and southern New England, and to promote sustainable practices. In 2019 we will be testing improved varieties of carrots, basil, and summer squash. The Vegetable Program also operates a 1-acre Teaching Garden which serves as a classroom for the Vegetable Production classes (PLS 324 and PLS 325) and way to demonstrate new crops, varieties, and practices to farmers and the public. Produce from the trials and garden goes to URI Dining Services, local food pantries, and the RI Food Bank.Preferred Skills and Abilities:- experience growing vegetables outdoors (farm experience preferred)- Passion for and interest in local food production and agriculture- Ability to work both quickly and carefully. The amount of work always exceeds the time available, so efficiency is essential.- Comfortable using hand and power tools including hoes, lawn mower, string trimmer, and rototiller- Good organization skills and ability to follow instructions precisely- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Reliability, communication and being able to talk and work at the same time are key. The ideal candidate takes responsibility and initiative to solve problems, but asks questions and seeks guidance before initiating solutions. - Willing to work outdoors in all weather; (this experience consists mostly of field work)Benefits:- pay based on experience, starting at $10.50/hr.- Positions last until August 30 with possibility of working up to 20 hours per week through October- free vegetables- opportunity to earn internship credit (PLS 399) Professor: Rebecca Brown

43. 33 - Laser Scarecrows for Bird Damage Prevention We are studying the use of robotic scarecrows equipped with green lasers to protect crops from birds. We are particularly interested in sweet corn, but are also testing lasers in other crops. The Coastal Fellow on this project would assist with field tests of the scarecrows on commercial farms. Duties would include installing scarecrows, observing bird activity in fields, and collecting data on bird damage to crops. This project mostly consists of field work.Required Qualifications:- Good communications skills, both with farmers and with the project team, are essential for keeping everyone updated and the project on-track- Valid drivers license- Ability to walk long distances over uneven groundPreferred Qualifications:- Interest in birds and ability to identify common species- experience with electronics/robotics construction or a willingness to learn- interest in agricultureBenefits:In addition to the standard Coastal Fellows benefits we offer free vegetables. Additional hours may be available working on other projects at the Gardiner Crops Research Farm. Professor: Rebecca Brown

44. 34 - Vertically-layered annual polycultures for intensive vegetable production The overall aim of this objective is to identify best management practices for vertically-layered annual polycultures suited to intensive urban production. Specific objectives are: 1) To document existing polyculture practices of Rhode Island farmers, including immigrant farmers in urban areas. 2) To evaluate the performance of these polycultures through replicated experiments. 3) To develop and evaluate new polyculture systems. 4) To develop and validate predictive models for these systems.The Fellow will assist with planting, managing, and harvesting trial plots at the Gardner Crops Research Center (the Agronomy Farm) and collecting, entering, and analyzing data from those plots. This experience is primarily field work. Professor: John Taylor

45. 35 - Enhancing the Sustainability and Productivity of Urban Agriculture through an Urban-adapted High Tunnel Production System Issue or problem: Urban growers and their communities could benefit from the higher sustainability and productivity of high tunnel production, but existing systems have several drawbacks. Their size makes them inappropriate for smaller-scale farms and potentially unaffordable for urban farmers, especially those from historically underserved communities. They are obtrusive in the urban landscape, making them potential targets for vandalism. Adjacent homeowners may find them aesthetically objectionable, and spatial constraints limit conservation strategies used to mitigate stormwater runoff from the impermeable covering. Contaminated urban soils also demand different soil management strategies from those used in conventional high tunnel production.Innovative approach: This collaboration between the University of Rhode Island and the state’s largest urban agriculture service provider and producer, the Southside Community Land Trust in Providence, RI, will develop an affordable, urban-adapted protected production system consisting of a scale-appropriate high tunnel that can be farmer-constructed, a cap-and-fill system for mitigating soil contamination, and multifunctional habitat strips for infiltrating stormwater runoff from the tunnel. Impacts: The system will provide multiple ecosystem services, which will be rigorously measured. Provisioning services will include the commercial production of high value, culturally important, or widely popular warm weather vegetable crops within the tunnels and cut flowers and/or native seed from the multifunctional habitat strips flanking the tunnels. Regulating services will encompass the capture and infiltration of stormwater runoff, pollination and pest control services, biodiversity conservation, and reduction of nitrate and phosphate leaching. Cultural services will include aesthetic value provided by the forb-rich habitat strips, recreation, and support for the traditional foodways of urban residents. Through training on the high tunnel technology, the project will intensify knowledge of that technology—and sustainable production practices in general—among urban farmers, including farmers from historically underserved groups, thereby increasing the food security and sovereignty of urban communities.The Fellow will assist the PI with planting, managing, harvesting, and collecting data from experimental plots (4 open field plots and 4 high tunnel plots) at the Gardner Crops Research Center (the Agronomy Farm). The Fellow will also enter and analyze data from the plots. This experience is primarily field work. Professor: John Taylor

46. 36 - Bumble Bees of Rhode Island A recent survey of the bumble bees of Vermont, (Richardson, L.L., K.P. McFarland, S. Zahendra and S. Hardy, 2018. Vermont Bumble Bee (Bombus) distribution and diversity in Vermont, U.S.A: A Century of change-https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs10841-018-0113-5), showed that of 17 historically native species, 3 were not found in surveys conducted between 2012-2014 and 4 species were in decline. We would like to conduct a similar survey of the bumble bees of Rhode Island. This experience is primarily field work. Professor: Steven Alm

47. 37 - Backyard Integrated Tick Management Effective tick control is an important public health measure for combating Lyme Disease. Our integrated tick management approach aims to reduce human-tick interactions by reducing the prevalence of ticks carrying disease causing agents at properties in Lyme-endemic towns located in southern Rhode Island. Fellows will be responsible for assisting with tick surveillance in backyards and interacting with participating homeowners. Interns in this project should be interesting in conducting fieldwork in a small team, be detail-focused, and be comfortable in casual- but professional- conversation with the public. Fellows are required to work 35 hours per week. This experience is primarily field work. Professor: Thomas Mather

48. 38 - Tick Burden on Small Mammals We will be assessing tick burden on small mammals in Southern Rhode Island backyards. We would prefer students to have interest or experience in handling and trapping small mammals. Fellows are required to work 35 hours per week. This experience is primarily field work. Professor: Thomas Mather