Data Visualization REU offered through the Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center

One of the most overlooked and important skills for any scientist is learning how to use the visualization of data for the greatest impact on the audience.

Engineering students have a unique opportunity this summer to team up with the Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center (BPCRC) to explore this.

Students can apply to participate in a remote (and paid) REU working on the Fluid Earth Viewer web application as part of the Permafrost Discovery Gateway, which allows access to Arctic permafrost, atmospheric and oceanic data. 

The REU is scheduled to run for 10 weeks starting in early- to mid-June 2021.

According to the Byrd Center, engineering work ranges anywhere from creating and optimizing code for new features and new platforms, to developing workflows for exporting and embedding visualizations. Other opportunities include creating educational tools for youth and teachers.

Undergraduate students with some background in atmospheric sciences, Earth sciences, geography, hydrology, GIS, or computer programming are invited to apply. The Byrd Center team will work with participants to create a managable and flexible portfolio of project work to complete over the summer that will increase their knowledge and skills. Mentoring from center researchers and IT are provided. 

Applications require a cover letter describing educational and career goals, and how the project can help further those goals. Also required is a resume indicating job and volunteer experience and related skills, as well as an informal transcript and three references. Submit all these materials in one email message to Michael Gravina at gravina.2@osu.edu. He is also available to answer questions or call 614-688-0080. 

To learn more about the project team, visit https://fever.byrd.osu.edu/about.html#about-team