CMERC Undergraduate Research Program
Undergraduate education and training are central to the mission of Corey Marsh Ecological Research Center. Since 2019, undergraduate students have been conducting independent field research under the mentorship of MSU faculty based in multiple departments across the university.
In summer 2023, we launched a new, coordinated program for undergraduate researchers working at CMERC. The intent with this program is to provide students the opportunity to play an integral role in conducting student-led research and to do so in a supportive and enriched environment. While conducting summer research at CMERC, students are offered opportunities for professional development, networking, and collaboration.
Students may either apply to participate in an ongoing research project at CMERC or propose new work. Funding for these projects (summer salary, supplies, etc.) varies and we welcome students to inquire about potential internal or external sources of funding that may be available to them.
STUDENTS: Application information is below. If you have general questions about the CMERC Summer Undergraduate Research Program, please contact Dr. Jen Owen (owenj@msu.edu).
FACULTY MENTORS: Are you interested in being a mentor for a research project based at CMERC? Learn more here: 2025 CMERC Summer Undergraduate Research Mentor Guidelines
The Application for the 2025 CMERC Summer Undergraduate Research Program is open now through February 21, 2025.
This year's program will run from May 12 - Aug 1, 2025. These are PAID undergraduate research positions based at CMERC: students typically earn $15/hour for 20-40 hours per week. Housing and transportation are not provided. Certain projects may require planning or fieldwork activities before or after the program dates - these details will be communicated by individual mentors during the interview and selection process.
Undergraduate students enrolled for fall 2025 (min 6 credits) at Michigan State University are eligible to apply for this program. Students from any major may apply.
CMERC 2025 Summer Research Program Application
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MSU Fisheries & Wildlife Students Share Internship Experiences
MSU undergraduate students participate in hands-on field research experience with wildlife at the Corey Marsh Ecological Research Center, located just northeast of the main campus in East Lansing.
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Avian Influenza Virus Studies at CMERC
Dr. Jennifer Owen talks about how AIV is being tracked at Corey Marsh Ecological Research Center.
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Secretive Marsh Bird Research at CMERC
CANR student Hannah Landwerlen talks about her project to band and track marsh birds at CMERC.
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Cavity Nesting Bird Research at CMERC
CANR student Evan Griffis talks about his research project on cavity nesting birds at CMERC.
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