Source: Jasmine Sharp, ani7j@k-state.edu
Photo available. Download at http://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/may11/524sharp.jpg
News release prepared by: Tyler Sharp, 785-532-2535, media@k-state.edu

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

A NATURAL EXPERIENCE: STUDENT TO CONDUCT RESEARCH DURING INTERNSHIP IN GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK

MANHATTAN -- Jasmine Sharp's summer internship is for the birds -- and maybe other critters, too.

Sharp, senior in French, Manhattan, will be conducting ecological research in Grand Teton National Park in northwestern Wyoming. The internship is through Grand Teton National Park Services and is funded by the U.S. government. Her research will include monitoring birds to document breeding and nesting success. Sharp will use spotting scopes and binoculars to look for activity by the adults and young. She will likely assist in another research project involving pikas, small hare-like animals.

A biology minor, Sharp has conducted three years of research through K-State's Developing Scholars Program and the Division of Biology. She said moving beyond the biological lab research is appealing.

"I've always desired to have a hands-on research experience in the field and this opportunity to work at Grand Teton will allow me to do this," she said.

Sharp is excited to work as a wildlife biologist.

"I believe this is a wonderful experience to have under me," she said. "It will allow me to further my interest in wildlife biology."

Sharp plans to graduate in May 2012 and find a career in biology.

"I hope to work in coastal areas since my main interests pertain to marine and tropical ecology," she said. "I'd like to be involved in working for wildlife sanctuaries."

Sharp, a 2007 graduate of Manhattan High School, also studied in France in summer 2010.