Undergraduate research opportunity in biology starting August 2026

This application is for undergraduate students interested in joining a research project focused on microbial communities, biomineralization, and coastal sand stabilization. Students will gain hands-on experience in microbiology, molecular techniques, and experimental design while contributing to ongoing research. Selected students are expected to commit approximately 5–10 hours per week and demonstrate strong work ethic, reliability, and interest in research.

Course Credit: Course credit will be offered as BIOL 3504 or 3550 beginning in Fall 2026

Project Overview This research project investigates microbial communities from coastal sand dunes and their ability to promote calcium carbonate formation through microbially induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP). These processes can help stabilize sand and reduce erosion in coastal environments. Students will contribute to building and testing microbial consortia using native isolates from Jockey’s Ridge State Park.

What You Will Do Culture and isolate environmental microorganisms, Perform microbial assays (urease activity, growth, biomineralization), Help design and test microbial consortia, Assist with molecular techniques (PCR, DNA analysis), Analyze experimental data, Participate in sand stabilization experiments, Option to present research at conference(s)

Please direct any questions to Dr. Myers at myersmar22@ecu.edu