Position Description: Geoscientists have struggled with engaging with and understanding the cultures of people on the land they study. Previously accepted practice has been to fly into a field site, collect samples, and return to their institution without significantly and meaningfully interacting with the local community. This project would take the first step to counteract this problem of “parachute science” by delving into the cultural history of the Pilbara in Western Australia, where the Drabon Group will begin field work next summer. Your part in the project includes researching local history, culture, and how local communities value and interact with the land; preparing presentations for the lab group about the researched topics; and discussing actions we can take to address the problem of parachute science, including ways to communicate our geologic research with local communities.

Duration: Three weeks (January 3 - 21, 2022)

Work Hours: Total of 20 hours over three weeks

Pay Rate: $300 stipend at completion of program

Number of Positions Available: 1

Qualifications/Requirements:

• No prior knowledge of the topic is necessary

All necessary software, data, and instructions will be provided.

The student will work under the direct supervision of the project host and present at the Drabon lab group meetings.

The Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences (EPS) welcomes everyone and aims for a diverse and inclusive community. Preferences will be given to freshman and sophomore students, but we encourage all interested students to apply. Students who are already working with members of the EPS community and non-Harvard students are not eligible for this position.