| Affiliations: | STEM Research Leadership |
| Project Leader: | EV Voltura
Veterinary Pathobiology |
| Faculty Mentor | Sarah A Hamer, Ph.D. |
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Meeting Times:
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TBA |
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Team Size:
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8
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| Open Spots: | 5 |
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Special Opportunities:
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Students actively engaged in The Parrots’ Project activities will have the potential to gain comprehensive, hands-on experience across multiple stages of the research process (e.g., conducting thorough literature reviews, synthesizing existing knowledge, identifying relevant research gaps, experimental design, data collection and analysis, field/lab work, scientific writing and communication by assisting with the preparation of research reports, publications, etc.). Through these activities students will cultivate critical thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration skills vital to addressing complex issues at the nexus between parrot, human, and environmental health. Members will be given the opportunity for co-authorship of publications or presentations if normal requirements are met.
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Team Needs:
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We seek undergraduates with a variety of backgrounds to move this project forward. Majors of interest include, but are not limited to: biology, chemistry, neuroscience, animal science, nutrition science, environmental science, pre-med and pre-vet, library science, public communications, philosophy, statistics, public health, sociology, natural resources/conservation, English language and literature, engineering, management information systems, foreign languages, and visual arts. There is a large amount of literature only available in languages other than English and thus those who speak multiple languages are encouraged to apply. The time commitment is expected to be 10-15 hours per week and may include weekend and holiday work. Applicants should be comfortable either working with animals or learning about how to work with animals in research in an ethical manner. To apply, please submit an application via email that includes the following: Cover Letter – Please include your major, GPA, current course load, an explanation of why you are interested in the project, what you hope to gain from participating the project, and a real world example of how you improved a team project in the past. |
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Description:
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Parrots are among the worlds’ most endangered vertebrate orders. Put simply, a future with fewer parrots will have both direct and indirect negative impacts on human health and well-being. The Parrots’ Project is an interdisciplinary research initiative that involves working to compile and synthesize the growing body of knowledge about parrot cognition, diet, health/disease, and behavior to inform the development and effective execution of innovative One Health-oriented studies which aim to improve human, parrot, and environmental health. Through its integrative approach, the Parrots’ Project aims to leverage knowledge engineering to support public health initiatives that recognize the intricate connections between these three entities. |