Undergraduate Research Opportunities
Are you passionate about delving into the mysteries of our planet’s oceans and ecosystems? Curious about the intricate web of life beneath the waves? At the Paytan Lab, undergraduate students have the unique chance to immerse themselves in cutting-edge research that could change the way we understand and protect our environment.

As an undergraduate researcher in the Paytan Lab, you’ll have the opportunity to:

1. Engage in Real-World Research: From the moment you step into the lab, you’ll work alongside experienced scientists, contributing to ongoing projects and conducting your own experiments. Your contributions can make a real impact on the field of marine and environmental science.
2. Dive into Diverse Topics: The Paytan Lab covers a wide range of research areas, including ocean chemistry, marine ecology, and environmental geochemistry. This diversity allows you to explore the areas that resonate most with your interests and career goals.
3. Access State-of-the-Art Facilities: UCSC boasts state-of-the-art research facilities and equipment, ensuring you have the tools you need to conduct groundbreaking research.
4. Mentorship and Support: Professor Adina Paytan and our team of experienced researchers are committed to your success. You’ll receive mentorship, guidance, and the support needed to excel in your research.
5. Contribute to Conservation and Sustainability: Your work in the Paytan Lab can contribute to a better understanding of our environment, which is crucial for the conservation and sustainable management of our planet’s natural resources.
6. Collaborate with a Diverse Community: UCSC is renowned for its collaborative and inclusive academic environment. You’ll have the chance to work with peers from diverse backgrounds, fostering a rich and dynamic research experience.

How to get started? It’s simple: explore our diverse range of research projects, choose the one that resonates with your interests, and reach out to the project leads.

 

Prospective Graduate Students 
Whether you are a recent graduate, or continuing your graduate education, we welcome applications from individuals who are enthusiastic about advancing scientific knowledge and contributing to our ongoing research. We encourage you to take the initiative and start a conversation with our research leaders and students. Engaging in a conversation with current lab members allows you to discuss your academic and research interests. This valuable interaction can help you identify common ground and ensure that the program is the right fit for you. Our lab group branches both Ocean Science and Earth & Planetary Science at UC Santa Cruz, and applications for each of these programs can be found on their respective websites. 

 

The Paytan Lab is located in the Earth & Marine Sciences Building on the UCSC campus. Find the Earth & Marine Sciences (EMS) Building on the campus map of McLaughlin Drive.

Mailing Address

Contact Information

Dr. Adina Paytan
Room C308,
Earth & Marine Science Building.
831-459-1437
apaytan@ucsc.edu

Website Manager
Zan Stremler
kstremle@ucsc.edu