Professor Dan Hernández is recruiting several students to join his research team (the EcoCarls!) for Summer 2026. Research this summer will focus on a variety of projects, including studies of the ecosystem impacts of bison reintroduction at Spring Lake Park Reserve, ecological outcomes of prairie restoration practices in the Carleton Arb, and work with local farmers in the Regenerative Agriculture Alliance to monitor the impacts of regenerative agricultural practices on soil ecological processes and greenhouse gas emissions. The projects will involve extensive fieldwork, thus a willingness to work outside in summer conditions is required. Students will learn field research skills in soil sampling, greenhouse gas monitoring, and laboratory techniques for measuring soil carbon and nutrient pools and fluxes.
Students will be hired to work over the entire 12 weeks of summer, but the duration of individual positions will ideally be for 8 weeks between June 15th-August 28th. Students will work 40 hours per week and be paid the standard stipend rate set by Carleton. Some of our research will extend into fall term as well, thus the ability to take 3 credits of directed research in fall 2026 is preferred.
Previous research experience is not required. It is not uncommon for students without previous research experience to be selected for a summer research opportunity and no specific coursework is required. Students from all backgrounds and class years are welcome to apply.
Applications are due February 15th, 2026. Apply here!