Participating in a mentored research experience with a plant biology professor provides you specialized training in techniques and professional skills. Data suggest that students who get involved in research early in their undergraduate program benefit the most from the experience. Many employers are looking for students with specific skills, which may not be available in the courses you take. A research experience can greatly enhance your resume and shows potential employers that you can think and work independently. Whether you are looking to enter a job immediately after graduation or go on to graduate school, a research experience should be a top consideration to give you a leg up on the competition. Many paid and volunteer research experiences are available to students at ODU, and you can get course credit that counts towards your degree for participating in research. The first step is finding a professor with a research program that appeals to you.

Student researchers in the program have worked on a variety of projects in the field, in the greenhouse, and in the lab. Some examples are:

1. Effects of nutrient-rich wastewater on annual growth of Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum)
2. Comparing salt marsh and adjacent communities in an urban coastal restoration site
3. Testing for viability of orchid seeds and their germination in asymbiotic environments
4. Using genetics and morphological traits to understand hybridization in highbush blueberries
5. Studying how mangroves survive under varying environmental conditions.

In addition to their research projects, the students also learned how to extract DNA from plant tissues, measure photosynthesis, design experiments, collect and prepare plants for the herbarium, and conduct field work in a variety of wetland and terrestrial systems. We all had a lot of fun doing research, and the students found their experiences beneficial. From the students: “I got to be exposed to areas of Virginia I did not know existed and I enjoyed in-field learning about plant biology.” “I felt like I was in the right place working with the right people!”

We are now recruiting the next group of student researchers for summer 2024! Click the link above to access the application. We will accept applications until March 1, 2024.

Data suggest that students who get involved in research early in their undergraduate program benefit the most from the experience. Dr. Lisa Wallace, Dr. Taylor Sloey, or Dr. Erik Yando will again host undergraduate researchers in their labs for the summer. Up to eight students will be selected and paired with an investigator to work on a research project in plant biology for 10 weeks. Each student will receive a stipend of $6000 for the summer, travel funds to participate in a scientific conference, and funds for research supplies. To be eligible, you must be a current ODU undergraduate with a GPA of at least 2.7 and have a strong interest in a plant-focused job or graduate school upon graduation. We especially encourage minority students who are interested in plant biology to apply. If you aren’t selected for this program, check with professors as there may be other opportunities available. Additionally, you can check for other opportunities outside of ODU here.

Examples of student-led research projects in botany that you could do:

• Using genetic data to determine how plants move between habitats
• Evaluating experimental conditions for germinating orchid seeds
• Understanding how plant traits inform community composition and restoration success
• Examining how plant species important to conservation respond to changes in environmental conditions
• Using herbarium specimens to map how species are changing their distributions in response to climate change

Q&A about the TREEBUD student research program:

Do I need to have previous research experience to apply?

No prior research experience is needed to apply for this program.

Do I have to be a biology major to apply?

No, all majors will be considered as long as you demonstrate a strong interest in research on plants.

How much will I have to work over the summer?

You will need to commit to working on average of 40‐hours per week for approximately 10 weeks. If you plan to take courses or hold a second part-time job, this research experience may be difficult for you. Your faculty advisor will discuss a weekly work schedule with you.

What is the stipend amount?

The stipend for the summer experience is $6000.

Is housing provided?

No, you will need to find housing at or near ODU on your own. Additionally, we do not provide a housing allowance outside of the stipend amount.

What can I expect during my time this summer?

You will learn new techniques, go on field trips to see plants in their natural habitats, build professional skills, and interact with other students and faculty in the program in professional and social activities.

What is the process of applying for a position as an undergrad researcher? What is the selection process?

To apply, simply complete the application. Successful students will be contacted for an interview before final decisions are made. We expect to make offers by the end of the semester.

Will students who have not been selected be notified?

Yes, we will notify all students who submit a complete application, whether or not they receive an offer for a position.

I did not receive an offer.  Is there any other way I can be involved in research?

Yes, there are often other positions available for students, either for course credit or payment. Find a lab with research that interests you and contact the faculty member to find out if they have any open positions. Sometimes these are available but may not be advertised. Additionally, you can look outside of ODU for REU and other opportunities here.

Who can I contact if I still have questions?

Contact any of the faculty advisors if you have questions about their research or this program – Dr. Wallace (lewallac@odu.edu), Dr. Sloey (tsloey@odu.edu), Dr. Yando (eyando@odu.edu).