USGS Trajectory of Marsh Surfaces and Soil Composition Post Thin Layer Placement

Project Description

This project examines how coastal wetlands at Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge respond to thin-layer sediment addition, a restoration strategy used to help marshes maintain elevation relative to sea-level rise. Sediment was applied in 2016 and 2026, but uncertainties remain regarding soil compaction, vegetation change, elevation recovery, and the long-term trajectory of treated marsh surfaces. The participant will collect and analyze new and existing data to better constrain these uncertainties and evaluate restoration outcomes. Activities include marsh soil core collection and laboratory analysis (bulk density, grain size, organic matter), elevation and vegetation surveys, and synthesis of data across treated and control sites to inform future coastal restoration efforts along the U.S. Mid-Atlantic and Northeast coasts.

Learning Objectives

• Develop field and laboratory skills in coastal wetland science, including soil core processing, elevation surveying, and vegetation monitoring.
• Gain experience managing, analyzing, and synthesizing ecological datasets to evaluate restoration effectiveness and marsh resilience to sea-level rise.
• Deepen your understanding of coastal marsh dynamics, sediment processes, and applied restoration science.
• Strengthen your ability to interpret and communicate scientific findings through presentations and contributions to data products or publications.

Mentor

The mentor for this opportunity is Joel Carr (jcarr@usgs.gov). If you have questions about the nature of the research please contact the mentor(s).

Citizenship Requirements

This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR), and foreign nationals. Non-U.S. citizen applicants should refer to the Guidelines for Non-U.S. Citizens Details page of the program website for information about the valid immigration statuses that are acceptable for program participation.

ORISE Information

This program, administered by ORAU through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to manage the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), was established through an interagency agreement between DOE and USGS. Participants do not become employees of USGS, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE.

Questions

If you have questions about the application process please email USGS@orau.org and include the reference code for this opportunity.

The Qualified Candidate

• Currently pursuing or having received a bachelor's or master's degree in the relevant fields.
• Degree must have been received within the past four years, or anticipated to be received by 6/1/2029.