The UTEP Department of Biological Sciences is asking for funds to renew its Chihuahuan Desert Biodiversity (CDB) REU program set in on one of the most biologically diverse arid environments in the world. Research projects will address vital issues in ecological and evolutionary processes and their effect on biodiversity in the region. Projects will be mentored by a group of faculty that have projects examining critical issues impacting biodiversity including ecosystem and community ecology, evolutionary patterns and organismal behavior critical to the region's environmental and economic sustainability. Student projects are built on a combination of independent and teamwork with substantial field and laboratory training. Training will be provided by a team of expert and diverse faculty (by gender, race, ethnicity and culture), led by Dr. Seymoure (PI) and Co-PI Dr. Moody, who has been the REU CDB PI since 2013. Undergraduate students will have unique access to field directed research projects including lab-based methods of data analysis and use of state of the art technology. The remote location of IMRS and other field sites provide a demanding, but ultimately fulfilling research experience. This program allows access and opportunity to students from UTEP and other institutions.