Stable Isotope analysis of invasive signal crayfish in Buskin Lake, Kodiak, Alaska
Lead Researcher: Matthew Van Daele, Sun'aq Tribe of Kodiak
Internship Description
We have received grant funding to analyze stable isotopes (carbon and nitrogen) in 550 signal crayfish samples, and 50 representative food items of these crayfish, to evaluate the diet of this invasive species.
Nature of the Research Project
Applied Research, Field Research, Informatics/Computational Research, Wet Lab/Bench Research
Student Learning Outcomes
Build and revise conceptual models to propose how a biological system or process works.
Recognize gaps in our current understanding of a biological system or process and identify what specific information is missing.
Select; carry out; and interpret statistical analyses.
Suggest how collaborators in STEM & non-STEM disciplines could contribute to solutions of real-world problems.
Use appropriate language and style to communicate science effectively to targeted audiences (e.g. general public; biology experts; collaborators in other disciplines)
Research Location
The crayfish and food samples will be taken from Buskin Lake, which is located approximately five miles south of the town of Kodiak (and on our road system). The samples will be prepared in Kodiak, but mailed off-island to an analytical stable isotope laboratory for processing.
All aspects of the summer work (sample collection) will be conducted on-site. Likely in late summer and early fall the first samples will be shipped for analysis, and over the winter this sample prep and analysis will continue, before moving into an interpretation phase. These latter stages could be conducted remotely (i.e., the intern would not need to be present in Kodiak for this part).
Remote Option? no
Preferred Timing
Start Date: 2021-05-24
End Date: 2021-08-27