Every ESS student participates in research, an internship, or service learning before graduating. Many students join faculty research labs as early as their second year. Here's how to get started.
Research Opportunities
Join a Faculty Lab
The best way to get research experience is to work directly with a faculty member. Most ESS professors welcome undergraduates in their labs.
How to get started:
- Look at the Faculty page and find professors whose work interests you
- Read about their research on their lab websites
- Email them directly—introduce yourself, explain why you're interested, and ask if they have openings
- Take their courses if you can—it's a good way to get to know them
Tips:
- Start early (sophomore year is not too soon)
- Be specific about what interests you
- Don't be discouraged if the first person you ask doesn't have space—keep trying
Summer Research Programs
Undergraduate Research Opportunities Center (UROC) UROC provides paid summer research fellowships, mentoring, and professional development for students interested in graduate school. Many ESS students have participated. Learn more about UROC →
Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs) NSF-funded summer programs at universities across the country. Competitive but excellent opportunities.
Open Positions - More information coming soon.
Swarth-Fogel Scholarship This scholarship supports UC Merced undergraduate students who wish to conduct field research at UC Merced NRS sites, or other sites housed within the UC Merced NRS administrative unit: the Merced Vernal Pools and Grassland Reserve, the Yosemite Field Station, the Sequoia Field Station, the UC Merced SCICON Sierra Foothills Field Station. Learn more about the Swarth-Fogel Scholarship →
Internships & Partnerships
ESS students have completed internships with:
- Yosemite National Park
- Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
- US Forest Service
- UC Natural Reserve System
- Sierra Nevada Research Institute
- California state agencies
- Local conservation organizations
- Environmental consulting firms
Talk to your advisor about finding internships that match your interests.
Yosemite Leadership Program
A two-year leadership development program in partnership with Yosemite National Park. Participants develop skills in environmental leadership, communication, and public lands management. Learn more about YLP →
Learn about our other opportunities such as the Field Curious Program and the UC Natural Reserve System Field Studies Program here.
Student Organizations
Composting Club
Student-run composting initiative on campus.
Community Garden
Students grow food and learn sustainable gardening practices in a campus garden plot.
Other Organizations
UC Merced has many student organizations focused on environment, sustainability, and outdoor recreation. Browse the full list on CatLife.
Service Learning
Some ESS courses include service learning components where you work with community partners on real environmental challenges. Ask your advisor or check course descriptions for opportunities.
Getting Started
Not sure where to begin?
Schedule a meeting with your academic advisors or the SNS Career Specialist:
- Chelsea Flannery (Academic Advisor): cflannery@ucmerced.edu
- Cynthia Granados (Academic Advisor): cgranados10@ucmerced.edu
- Maricela Melendrez (Academic Advisor): mmelendrez2@ucmerced.edu
- Robert Goodman (SNS Career Specialist): rgoodman@ucmerced.edu
They can help you identify opportunities that match your interests and goals.
