The Arctic is experiencing an unprecedented change in climate. How will Arctic ecosystems respond to the changes that are occurring, and what are the potential feedbacks to global climate? Find out, and experience these ecosystems first-hand through the intensive “Field Course in Arctic Science,” offered through Summer Sessions at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, and as a component of the University of the Arctic Thematic Network on Global Change in the Arctic. This 4-week, 4-credit course will be taught at the University of Alaska Fairbanks and the Toolik Field Station in northern Alaska from August 3 to 28, 2009.

Students in the course will learn about the ecology of arctic and boreal ecosystems through daily lectures delivered by a variety of scientists and guest faculty, active participation in field sampling, and evening discussions of the relevant science literature. The field course will span a broad range of disciplines, including local geomorphology and natural history, fire ecology, plant ecology, invertebrate and mammal biology, carbon budgets, and the implications of a warming climate. The students will gain a firm background in the structure and function of the ecosystems in northern Alaska and become familiar with the tools and techniques used to measure the ecological impacts of climate change.

The course is limited to ten finishing undergraduate or starting graduate students. The cost of food, lodging and travel between the field sites will be covered. Students are expected to pay for their round trip travel to Fairbanks, Alaska, tuition at the University of Alaska (summer tuition is at the in-state rate) and their food when based in Fairbanks. Students will need to bring all-weather clothing including winter jackets and rubber boots, a warm sleeping bag, and preferably a tent.

Interested students should submit a current curriculum vitae and a cover letter stating their experience and how the course would benefit them to Dr. Syndonia Bret-Harte (ffmsb@uaf.edu) by April 30, 2009.
 
To view the course syllabus, please click here: AON Course Syllabus