Smithsonian-Mason REU Offers Students a Pathway to Conservation Science

George Mason and Smithsonian open doors for selected undergraduates nationwide to tackle environmental challenges through hands-on research.

From cloning endangered black-footed ferrets to using drone technology to track wildlife, and even caring for red pandas up close, the opportunities at the Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation put students at the forefront of conservation science. As a global leader in conservation research, the school offers hands-on experiences that few other institutions can match.

Now, students across the country can apply for a ten-week summer research experience through the recent National Science Foundation funded Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program through the Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation—a partnership between George Mason University and the Smithsonian Institution. 

The 2025 REU program, Saving Critically Endangered Species and Habitats: Next-Generation Education, Research, and Training for Conservation Biologists, is only the second NSF-REU awarded to George Mason University. The program is led by College of Science Dean and Principal Investigator Cody W. Edwards, alongside Biology Professor and Co-Principal Investigator David Luther.

On-site at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute in Front Royal, VA, the program will select ten participants to take part in field-based conservation projects. These students will work on developing strategies to preserve endangered species and acquire skills applicable to careers in conservation biology.

“One of the best things about George Mason is the wide range of backgrounds and experiences our students bring, along with the access we provide to top-tier research thanks to our location and partnerships with leading institutions like the Smithsonian,” said Edwards. “Hosting an REU allows us to expand that access nationwide, reaching students who are passionate about conservation and eager to make an impact, but who may not yet be aware of the opportunities available at George Mason.”

Edwards said the REU will act as an “amplifier,” offering a launchpad for students who have the passion and potential but lack exposure to advanced training in the field.

“This learning opportunity is incredibly difficult to replicate as you get both a world-class education, along with an expanded network of top industry professionals. Many students apply to work with Smithsonian scientists and researchers at George Mason, and now this REU provides a broader pathway to do that,” said Edwards.

Participants will engage with researchers and mentors like Edwards and Luther in a collaborative setting that blends fieldwork and lab-based research. Through these collaborations, students will deepen their research experience, gain critical career skills, grow professional networks, and generate findings with potential to impact conservation efforts globally.

“Everyone I’ve met got their start with the help of a good mentor,” said Luther. “People can do a lot of good work on their own, but having someone to guide you early on, someone who helps shape how you approach problems, work through challenges, and make sound decisions is invaluable. That’s why I think this grant, and the research experience it offers undergraduates, is so special.”

Students will focus their work in one of three core areas aligned with the school’s expertise: assessing and monitoring wild populations, studying ecological resilience in the face of environmental threats, and improving the care and management of species in human care.

The SMSC is distinguished by its rich history of renowned experts and visionary faculty dedicated to educating and inspiring the next generation of conservation leaders. Over the years, SMSC has welcomed some of the most influential figures in environmental science. The late Jane Goodall, a global icon of wildlife conservation, visited the campus in 2017, 2018, and 2019 to share her insights and engage with students. George Mason’s Department of Environmental Science and Policy was also home to the legendary Thomas Lovejoy, often referred to as the “Godfather of Biodiversity,” who mentored some of SMSC’s current faculty.

“What excites me most about the REU is the opportunity it creates, not just for the individual student, but for the broader conservation community,” Edwards said. “Their work can spark new ideas and help drive forward conservation initiatives beyond their own project,” said Edwards. “The program builds networks of individuals who can collaborate to drive big changes.”

Edwards hopes the REU will also build momentum for further collaborations with neighboring institutions like the Smithsonian to continue broadening the reach of George Mason's academic and research programming.

Applications for the REU at the Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation are due by January 30, 2026.