Research opportunities

Amphibians and aquatic insects play varied and integral roles in both freshwater ecosystems and their adjoining terrestrial habitats, often accounting for a large proportion of energy in these systems.  This study will rely on field collection of insects and amphibians, and measuring wetland physical and chemical properties to quantify biodiversity, dispersal patterns and assess the food-web structure in dynamic coastal dune wetlands of Michigan.

Volunteers are needed for field and laboratory work. Field work will consist of collecting larval amphibians, invertebrates, plant, and water samples throughout the spring and summer season (May through August). Day trips to wetlands along the Lake Michigan coastline are required and overnight trips are an option. Skills acquired during field work will include standard collection methods, identification of amphibians, invertebrates, and plants, conservation and ecology practices and principles, as well as project design and management. Lab work will include, but not limited to sorting invertebrates, water chemistry analysis, species trait analysis, and data entry. Students will gain skills in invertebrate identification, general laboratory procedures, and data management programs.  There is a possibility of continuing lab work throughout the academic year, including Honors thesis projects. Both field and lab components will help students understand the current concepts, techniques, and importance of ecology in a changing environment and focus on coastal dune wetlands, which are a threatened habitat. 

Volunteers must be reliable, respectful of research ethics, hardworking, have an eye for detail, and a willingness to learn. This opportunity provides hands on experience of science in action. As a member of the Schriever lab team you will work closely with graduate students.

If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact with resume:

Dr. Tiffany Schriever

tiffany[dot]schriever[at]wmich.edu