/College of Arts and Sciences
Department of Ecology & Evolution

Undergraduate Fieldwork & Research Opportunities

Gain hands-on research experience, expand your skills, and explore the natural world

On-Campus Research Opportunities

Undergraduate Lab Research Positions

Are you an undergraduate student looking to gain hands-on scientific experience right here in our department? Our faculty members regularly welcome motivated undergraduates into their research labs for paid assistantships, credit-bearing independent study (BIO 487), or volunteer roles.

  • How to get involved: We are currently compiling our active lab vacancy list for the upcoming semester. In the meantime, we highly recommend exploring our Faculty Research Labs Directory ↗ to learn about active projects and reaching out directly to PIs whose work aligns with your interests.

National Fellowships & Seasonal Fieldwork

External Job Boards & Programs

Expanding your research experience outside of Stony Brook is a fantastic way to develop your skills, build your network, and explore potential career paths in ecology and conservation.

  • Texas A&M Natural Resources Job Board: Widely considered the premier national hub for temporary, seasonal, and full-time field technician roles in ecology, wildlife biology, and environmental science.

  • NSF Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU): A prestigious national program funded by the National Science Foundation. REUs place undergraduate students directly into active research projects at hosting institutions across the country, typically providing a competitive stipend, housing, and travel support.

  • National Park Service - Scientists in Parks (SIP) Program: Offers fully paid winter and summer internships within national parks across the United States, focusing deeply on biological sciences, natural resources, and environmental education.

Featured Field Courses & Academic Immersions

Ecosystem Field Studies (EcoFS)

Apply your classroom and textbook learning while completely immersed in a transformative environmental academic setting. These exciting, hands-on courses allow you to earn 3 undergraduate college transfer credits in just three weeks.

  • Caribbean Ecosystem Field Studies: Study, SCUBA, and snorkel on the Caribbean coast of Mexico while learning practical scientific methods through active marine investigations.

  • Colorado Ecosystem Field Studies: Study, camp, and hike in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado while conducting active field research with a dynamic group of peers.

Student Organizations & Community Outreach

Alternative Spring Break Outreach (ASBO)

ASBO is a student-developed, student-run community service organization at Stony Brook University. The group works to promote a lifelong spirit of volunteerism through environmental outreach, natural disaster relief, and collaborations with local conservation organizations.

  • Meetings: Mondays from 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM in Frey Hall, Room 309.

  • Contact: asbosbu@gmail.com | Instagram: @asbosbu

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) at SBU

A dedicated student volunteering chapter offering active leadership positions across local fundraising and healthcare outreach teams.