Field Ecology in Mongolia
Approximately five weeks of field work in northern Mongolia at an International Long-Term Ecological Research site.
This is the third summer of a five-year funded project investigating the ecological, evolutionary and societal consequences of rising temperatures and increased grazing pressures in the Lake Hövsgöl region of Mongolia. This cold, dry region near the border with Russian Siberia consists mostly of steppe grassland and is used primarily for traditional grazing. It has been identified with the potential to show changes in the short term from global climate change.
The project is funded by the National Science Foundation and led by a team of five Penn Biology professors. Students will work alongside Penn professors and graduate students, as well as collaborators from the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia and the National University of Mongolia to conduct on-going field sampling. There will also be opportunity to pursue independent projects. Several preparatory sessions will be held at Penn before the field season begins, as well as on-site training in sampling techniques.
Four to six students will be selected to participate. Freshmen through juniors, from any Penn undergraduate school and in any discipline are encouraged to apply. However, students interested in ecology or environmental studies may reap the most benefits from this experience, and have typically been the strongest candidates. Due to granting agency regulations, participants must be US citizens.
The project is situated in a field camp with primitive conditions. The site is very remote and requires 2-3 days travel from the capital of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar; students will therefore need to be in good health, adaptable, and preferably have substantial outdoor experience. Housing is in gers – traditional Mongolian structures, which are warm and weatherproof. The site does not have running water or electricity, and meals are served family style with very limited food choices. Because of site limitations and the nature of traditional Mongolian cuisine, vegetarian, kosher, or other dietary restrictions cannot be accommodated. The US State Department’s travel page has some information on conditions:
No stipend is provided, but the project funds cover students’ travel, living expenses, and emergency evacuation insurance.
Process:
Students complete the application form electronically no later than 15 January 2010. After initial screening, candidates will be invited for an interview with emphasis on answering questions and concerns. Final selection will be made early in February to allow time for travel arrangements and immunizations.