We welcome enthusiastic and thoughtful undergraduate and graduate students and postdoctoral researchers. We are particularly interested in highly-motivated and relatively independent students who have a curiosity for morphological, physiological, and behavioral diversity. Graduate students will be expected to develop their own projects.
Our lab is an equitable and diverse group of graduate and undergraduate students from different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. We strive to foster a collaborative and inclusive environment where students can conduct science and develop their scientific identities. It is important to us that students be comfortable working in a team since projects are often collaborative. Being effective as a mentor is important to us and we will do our best to support you in your growth as a scientist.
Prospective students should send Professor Mehta an email with a brief description of their research interests and how those interests align with our lab. If you are planning to apply to our graduate program, please send a CV/resume with your educational history and research experience, if any. We look forward to talking with you!

Rita Mehta
Coastal Biology Building
130 McAllister Way
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
rmehta2@ucsc.edu
Office: 831-459-1490
Lab: 831-459-1988