Engaged Undergraduate Research Grants
Thinking outside of the (Nest)Box for Biological Research and Science Communication
Engaging students with citizen scientists who define real-world research questions about the reproductive success of nesting birds and help foster excitement about communicating science to the public.
More than 100,000 enthusiastic people interested in birds are actively engaged with Cornell scientists by gathering and reporting information about birds in their neighborhoods. This project allows students to learn how to tap into this group of citizen scientists to solicit research questions that the students investigate. The suggestions for research topics are developed by leaders of birding organizations in New York, California and Texas who seek requests from their membership. Students work with staff at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology to set up research protocols by installing nest boxes that attract cavity-nesting songbirds. After monitoring local nests and distilling information from the scientific literature, students report their findings through digital media to the public and through peer-reviewed scientific journals.
Topics: Education; Energy, Environment and Sustainability
The Team
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David Bonter, Lab of Ornithology
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
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Robyn Bailey, Lab of Ornithology
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
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Wesley Hochachka, Lab of Ornithology
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
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Todd Bittner, Cornell Botanic Gardens
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
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Miyoko Chu, Lab of Ornithology
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
- Community partner: California Bluebird Recovery Program
- Community partner: New York State Bluebird Society
- Community partner: Texas Bluebird Society