Geographic Information Systems at the University of Southern Maine

News

• Announcements
• Brown Bag Lectures
• Calendar
• Email List

Education

• Certificate Program
• GIS Courses
• Workshops
• Course Modules

Research

• Lab Projects
• Student Projects
• Grant and Proposal Support
• Research Experiences for Undergraduates

Opportunities

• Workstudy
• Internships
• Partnerships
• GIS Jobs Databases

Resources

• Field Equipment
• Software
• Hardware
• Personnel
• Online Data
• Online Tools
• Contact Information

GIS Groups

• Maine GIS User Group
• Maine GeoLibrary Board
• Maine Office of GIS
• Maine State GIS Stakeholders
• USM-GIS Advisory Committee

Research Experiences for Undergraduates

The University of Southern Maine is a National Science Foundation (NSF) Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) site. The program gives students an opportunity to learn cutting-edge precision digital survey techniques as applied to geologic mapping in coastal Maine while working on a research project for presentation at a professional meeting. The dates for this summer's field school are May 23, 2009 - July 18, 2009. Abstracts produced by the REU students from 2008 can be viewed online.

Remote coastal sites are accessed via sea kayak. Data is collected in the field using Trimble GeoXTs, SpectraPrecision Total Stations, and Real Time Kinematic GPS. The field data is combined with available imagery and data and with previous years' field data for database construction and spatial analysis, including geologic interpretation, structural analysis and tectonic modeling.

This program is designed for undergraduate students who have completed their junior year in a geoscience major, geography major with a geology minor, or other applicable degree program. Background coursework in geology and/or geography, prior field experience and established GIS computer skills are highly recommended. Training is provided in all areas.

Students receive a stipend of $2400, travel reimbursement and support to attend the NEGSA meeting to present their work and 6 credits for their field experience (GEY360/GEO360 - Field Mapping in the Island Environment: Data Collection to GIS). When not camping in the field, dormitory accommodations are provided at the University of Southern Maine’s Gorham Campus.

General information about the program is available online as a PDF. To apply to participate in the REU Program, submit: 1) the completed application form; 2) a copy of your college transcript, and; 3) a letter of recommendation from your faculty mentor to: Dr. Mark Swanson, Department of Geosciences, University of Southern Maine, Gorham, ME 04038. Completed applications for these positions must be in hand by Monday, March 23, 2009. Applicants will be notified via e-mail by Friday, March 27, 2009.

For more information about the REU Program, contact Mark Swanson.