Future Projects

The Center has ongoing research that employs undergraduate students and graduate students. Positions may or may not be available at any given time, depending on funding and current staffing. Contact the Center Director or individual faculty about opportunities within the Center.

Undergraduate Research Assistants

Undergraduate students typically participate in research projects by assisting graduate students with laboratory and field experiments. In addition, undergraduate students occasionally direct their own research on a component of a larger research project. The positions offer the opportunity to learn more about environmental and water resources engineering beyond what is covered in the classroom. Students are paid on an hourly basis, with assignments typically ranging from 10 to 20 hours per week during the school year and possibly more during the summer. Candidates from groups underrepresented in engineering are particularly encouraged to apply.

Graduate Research Assistants

The Center for Water and the Environment at The University of New Mexico typically has several open graduate research assistantships available for highly qualified M.S. or Ph.D. students at the start of each Fall semester. The assistantships will be funded by a National Science Foundation grant from the CREST (Centers for Research Excellence in Science and Technology) program, which is focused on performing world-class research on water and energy issues while expanding the presence of historically underrepresented groups in science and engineering disciplines. Only U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents can be funded under this program. Students from groups underrepresented in engineering are particularly encouraged to apply. Excellent communication skills are required. Students who have completed a B.S. or M.S. degree in environmental, chemical, or civil engineering will be considered.

Instructions to apply for graduate research assistant positions are at civil.unm.edu/admissions/graduate-admissions/index.html.

To be considered, identify in your Letter of Intent that you are interested in CREST and list the specific area or areas that you are interested in. For best consideration, apply by March 1. UNM is New Mexico’s flagship university and the only university in the state with the Carnegie Foundation’s highest classification for research activity. UNM is located in Albuquerque, a beautiful city that boasts a desirable climate, stunning landscape, and multicultural heritage. Albuquerque is perfect for outdoor activities including hiking, biking, camping, rafting, and skiing. For more information about the assistantships or research areas, contact Dr. Kerry Howe (Director, CWE) at howe@unm.edu.