Internships, Jobs, and other Opportunities

in Environmental Science

 

Bicknell’s Thrush Field Technicians Needed for Mountain Birdwatch 2.0 (Norwich, VT)

Please direct inquiries about these positions to Julie Hart (contact info at bottom of the announcement).

FIELD TECHNICIANS (10) needed for a monitoring program of high-elevation songbirds in the Northeastern U.S. from 30 May 2009 to 26 June 2009. An international monitoring program is being established in June 2009 targeting Bicknell’s Thrush and other high-elevation songbirds.

Technicians will conduct point counts for ten target species at designated points along trails in the Adirondacks, Catskills, Green Mountains, White Mountains, and the mountains of central Maine. Learn more about Mountain Birdwatch here: http://www.vtecostudies.org/MBW/. Successful applicants will be eager to spend long summer days in this beautiful mountain region, are in good physical condition, and capable of early morning (4:00 am) starts. Must be comfortable backpacking and camping alone in remote locations. Familiarity with New England birds preferred, but training will be provided. Mosquitoes and black flies are prevalent at this time of year. High-elevation weather is highly variable and can be near freezing at night and in the 80s during the day. Thunderstorms and muddy trail conditions are inevitable. Compensation is $450/wk plus mileage reimbursement. Rustic housing is provided on days off. Applicants must be flexible to changes in daily/weekly schedules due to weather. Applicants should have their own vehicle, backpacking equipment, and binoculars. Application deadline is 15 Feb 2009 or until positions are filled. To apply, send letter of interest, resumé, and contact information for three references to: Julie Hart (EM: jhart AT vtecostudies.org), Mountain Birdwatch Coordinator,

Vermont Center for Ecostudies, PO Box 420, Norwich, VT 05055.

Julie Hart

Mountain Birdwatch Coordinator

Vermont Center for Ecostudies

PO Box 420 • Norwich, VT 05055

802-649-1431 x 6

http://www.vtecostudies.org/MBW/

 

Ecosystem Management at Eco-Informatics Summer Institute (Oregon)

We are announcing a CALL FOR APPLICANTS for the Eco-Informatics Summer Institute (EISI) (http://eco-informatics.engr.oregonstate.edu/) from June 15- August 21, 2009, at the HJ Andrews Experimental Forest (http://andrewsforest.oregonstate.edu/) in the beautiful Oregon Cascade mountains. Please view attached brochure for more details.

Eco-Informatics, an emerging discipline, integrates mathematics, computer science, statistics, and engineering with the study and management of ecosystems.  Through a ten-week undergraduate/early graduate research experience, the EISI will provide interdisciplinary training for young scientists to help manage ecosystems in our technologically sophisticated,

globalized world. 

Through the integration of research and education, effective mentoring, and hands-on experiences at the HJ Andrews, fifteen participants will gain:

1. valuable research experience in Eco-Informatics and in their own disciplines.

2. three hours of class credit.

3. the foundation and opportunities to develop and seek support for their own graduate program, including a peer-reviewed research proposal.

4. the training to become outstanding interdisciplinary scientists and effective contributors to the science and management of ecosystems.

 

Participants will receive:

1. a total stipend of $4,000, from which tuition for the summer class (approximately $ $680+5%.) will be deducted.

2. travel, up to $500, for transportation to the Summer Institute will be provided to participants.

3. free lodging at the HJ Andrews Experimental Forest.

4. 3 meals per day for the first and final weeks of the program.

5. the opportunity for down time and group activities such as  white water rafting. 

 

For more details and application, please go to:

http://eco-informatics.engr.oregonstate.edu/ The application deadline is February 16th, 2009.

To view Oregon State University’s Graduate Brochure, please visit.

 http://oregonstate.edu/admissions/publications/graduatebook2008.pdf

If you have any questions, please e-mail me at

Katherine.Hoffman@geo.oregonstate.edu.

 

Sincerely,

Desiree Tullos

Director, Summer Institute for Eco-Informatics

Assistant professor, Biological and Ecological Engineering

Oregon State University

541.737.2038

http://rivers.bee.oregonstate.edu/index.html

 

Restoration Ecology/Conservation Biology Internships (Institute for Applied Ecology, Pacific Northwest)

Institute for Applied Ecology

Dedicated to native ecosystem conservation, research, and education

PO Box 2855, Corvallis OR 97339-2855     

phone: 541-753-3099      fax: 541-753-3098

 

The Institute for Applied Ecology (www.appliedeco.org) will be hiring up to nine interns this summer for field work and related activities.  Our paid positions are intended to provide field experience to individuals considering conservation biology or restoration ecology as a career. Internships are partially supported by the Native Plant Society of Oregon, and interns are encouraged to write short articles for the NPSO Bulletin.

PRAIRIE RESTORATION RESEARCH: (3 positions) Interns will help on a large scale research project studying prairie restoration methods in Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia.  Field work will involve botanical surveys, soil sampling, and other ecological measurements.  Applicants with plant identification skills are particularly encouraged to apply. Approximately 65% of the work is conducted out-of-town/overnight (mostly in Washington).  Applicants MUST be able to start mid-April.  Internships are 10 weeks the potential for an extension. 

CONSERVATION RESEARCH (3 positions):  Interns will work on a variety of projects throughout the summer including rare plant habitat surveys, threatened and endangered species research and monitoring, and invasive species research throughout the state of Oregon.  Approximately 50% of the work is conducted out-of-town/overnight (accommodations include both hotels and primitive camping sites). Applicants MUST be able to start by the second week of May, with preference to those who can start in mid- to late-April. Internships will last 12 weeks, with the potential for an extension. 

PRAIRIE SPECIES HABITAT CONSERVATION PLAN (2-3 positions) Interns will complete habitat assessments on public and private lands in Benton County, OR.  Fieldwork (daytrips from Corvallis) will include general botanical survey and surveys for threatened and endangered plant species.  Applicants with plant identification skills or familiarity with Willamette Valley flora are encouraged to apply.  Applicants MUST be able to start by the first week of May, with preference to those who can start in mid- to late-April. Position will run through early July.

We encourage you to visit our website, www.appliedeco.org for more information on these projects.

Qualifications:    

• Interest in conservation biology, restoration ecology, botany

• Plant identification and ecological research skills (or enthusiastic willingness to learn)

• Attention to detail

• Ability to work long hours in hot, dry and cold, wet conditions with exposure to poison oak

• Ability to hike up to 3 miles carrying a 30 pound pack and work in a bent-over/kneeling/sitting position for long periods of time

 

Compensation: $9.00/hr plus travel expenses associated with overnight field work (food and lodging).  Housing in Corvallis is not provided.

To Apply:  Applications must be emailed to jobs@appliedeco.org no later than Monday, February 17, 2009. Include a letter of interest stating when you would be available to start work (this is a MUST) and which project(s) you would prefer, resume, transcripts (unofficial is fine), and two letters of recommendation.  INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. Non-U.S. residents must also include a copy of their work visa.  Applications will be considered upon receipt. 

 

REU Plant-Insect Interactions and Plant Population Dynamics (Florida State University)

Full-time summer Research Experience for Undergraduate (REU) opportunity studying plant-herbivore interactions and population dynamics in an agricultural weed. Research involves a combination of greenhouse/lab and field experiments in the vicinity of Florida State University in Tallahassee. Possible topics for REU projects include (but are not limited to) plant or insect responses to density, plant resistance or tolerance to herbivory, and plant demography.

Research will occur May-September 2006. Dates somewhat flexible, but experience involves at least 10 weeks of full time (40-45 hours/week) work. Generous stipend plus allowance for travel and housing expenses.

Research is in collaboration with Stacey Halpern (Pacific University), Nora Underwood (Florida State University), and Brian Inouye (Florida State University). Application due Feb 15. Please see full ad at http://bio.fsu.edu/~nunderwood/homepage/ for additional information. We strongly encourage applications from women, students of color, first generation college students, and other underrepresented groups.

 

Conservation and Land Management Internships (Western US)

The Conservation and Land Management Internship Program is now accepting applications for 2009! Apply online at www.clminternship.org   

Would you like to put your education to use assisting in important conservation projects? Do you like to experience new landscapes, habitats, and species diversity? The CLM Internship Program is a wonderful opportunity to begin a career in natural resource management and conservation!

Each year, the Conservation and Land Management Internship Program places 75-100 college graduates in five-month paid internships to assist professional staff at the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), National Park Service (NPS), US Fish and Wildlife Service (NFWF) or US Geologic Survey (USGS). Internships are primarily located in one of the thirteen western states, including Alaska!  Each internship is unique and may focus on botany, wildlife, or a combination of the two. Projects may include monitoring or assessing threatened and endangered species and habitats.

Applicants with strong botanical backgrounds are especially encouraged to apply!

Benefits of the CLM Internship Program are numerous! As a CLM intern, you will receive a stipend of $11,000 and will attend an all expenses-paid week long training workshop. In addition, the CLM Internship Program provides opportunities to make connections in various governmental and non-profit organizations, to learn what it’s like to work at a federal agency, to explore your career goals and expand your resume.

For more information and to apply online, please visit our website: www.clminternship.org   

 

NIMBioS REU Program (University of Tennessee)

NIMBioS- The National Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis at the University of Tennessee is hosting an REU program for summer:  June 1 - July 24 2009.  Undergraduate majors in math, biology, and related fields will live on campus and work with UT professors on state-of-the-art research projects.  Stipend and housing provided.  For more information please visit www.nimbios.org.  The application deadline is Feb 16, 2009. Please pass this information on to any successful undergraduates that may be interested. 

NIMBioS is a synthesis institute sponsored by the National Science Foundation, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture with additional support from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. 

Sarah Duncan

NIMBioS

 Education and Outreach Coordinator

865-974-9364

sduncan7@utk.edu

 

(3) PISCO Intertidal Marine Ecology (Oregon State University)

Partnership for Interdisciplinary Studies of Coastal Oceans (PISCO)

Job ID# 2009-3, 4, or 5

 

PISCO Employment Opportunity 3

Job Description: 

We are looking for enthusiastic individuals to assist in rocky intertidal research on the Oregon Coast. The marine ecology research focuses include mussel and barnacle larval recruitment and settlement, community ecology, and species interactions projects. This position involves both lab and field work. The lab work will include counting samples at a stereo microscope. The field work activities will involve hiking to field sites, climbing on coastal cliffs with heavy equipment and working on rocky exposed shores. The individual must be willing to work early mornings or late nights, some weekends, and some overnight stays at field sites. 

Desirable qualifications: 

* Self-motivated, ability to work both in a team setting and also independently

* Undergraduate course work in marine biology/ecology

* Familiarity with the rocky intertidal ecosystem and marine invertebrates of the Pacific Northwest

* Previous field work experience

* Excellent organizational and logistical skills

* Valid driver’s license and a good driving record

* Hardworking and willing to work weekends and after hours

 

Program:

PISCO is a large-scale marine research program that focuses on understanding the nearshore and intertidal ecosystems of the U.S. West Coast.  An interdisciplinary collaboration of scientists from four universities, PISCO integrates long-term monitoring of ecological and oceanographic processes at dozens of coastal sites with experimental work in the lab and field.  We explore how individual organisms, populations, and ecological communities vary over space and time.  PISCO’s findings are applied to issues of ocean conservation and management, and are shared through public outreach and student training programs. For more information visit our website at: http://piscoweb.org/

Salary: $11.00/hr

Dates: March 23, 2009-September 2009

Location: Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon

Housing:  We do not offer housing. 

Transportation:  Transportation is provided to and from field sites.

 

If you would like to apply for this position, please email with Job ID# 2009-3, 4, or 5 as subject:

* a letter of intent explaining your interest in this work, your background, your dates available, and other pertinent information

* a CV or resume

* a copy of your college transcripts (unofficial copies accepted)

* email and phone contact information for at least two references

 

To:           Jerod Sapp; PISCO lab manager; pisco@science.oregonstate.edu

               for more information, contact Jerod by email or check out our website at www.piscoweb.org

 

 

PISCO Employment Opportunity 4

Position Announcement

Physical Oceanography/Marine Ecology Seasonal Research Assistant available at Oregon State University.   Job ID#: PO1 2009

Job Description: We are looking for an enthusiastic individual to assist in scientific research in the nearshore oceanographic environment for the Partnership for Interdisciplinary Studies of Coastal Oceans (PISCO). The primary responsibilities are to assist in conducting oceanographic research on and offshore of the Oregon coast at six sites. At sea work includes: participating in research cruises on the R/V Elakha and R/V Kalipi; deployment, maintenance, and retrieval of oceanographic instruments; and occasional SCUBA to observe and recover moorings. Shore and lab work includes: constructing moorings and other sampling devices; assisting with downloading and maintaining oceanographic data and data logs; mussel growth measurements; assisting with instrument calibrations; assisting with water sampling collection and processing; and assisting professors, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students in their research as needed. This position requires working weekends and early mornings, and very long hours in the field. It may also require staying at housing on the coast for short periods.

Required Qualifications: 

* SCUBA diving certification and significant diving experience 

* Boating experience and resistance to motion sickness

* Ability to work collaboratively as part of an ecological research team

* Interest in physical and biological oceanography

 

Desirable Qualifications:

* Strong attention to detail

* First Aid and CPR certification

* AAUS scientific diving certification

* Cold water/ dry suit diving experience

* Physically fit, hardworking and willing to work required hours

* Marine biology and/or oceanography coursework and/or fieldwork

 

Program: This project is part of the Partnership for the Interdisciplinary Studies of Coastal Oceans (PISCO), a large-scale marine research program that focuses on understanding the nearshore

ecosystems of the U.S. West Coast <http://www.piscoweb.org/what/area/index.html> .  An interdisciplinary collaboration of scientists from four universities http://www.piscoweb.org/what/campuses/index.html, PISCO integrates long-term monitoring of ecological and oceanographic processes at dozens of coastal sites with experimental work in the lab and field.  We explore how individual organisms, populations, and ecological communities vary over space and time.

Salary: $11/hr. 

Dates: Approximately mid-March 2009 through September, 2009.

Location: Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon

Housing:  We do not offer housing. 

Transportation:  Transportation to and from field sites and dock is provided.

 

If you would like to apply for this position, please email with Job ID# PO1 2009 as subject:

* a letter of intent explaining your interest in this work, your background, your dates available, and other pertinent information

* a CV or resume

* a copy of your college transcripts (unofficial copies accepted)

* a copy of your dive logs

* email and phone contact information for at least two references

 

To:           Jerod Sapp; PISCO lab manager; pisco@science.oregonstate.edu

               For more information, contact Jerod by email or check out our website at www.piscoweb.org. Review of applications will begin on February 15.

 

 

PISCO Employment Opportunity 5

Marine Ecosystem Ecology summer research internship available at Oregon State University. Job ID#: PO2 2009

Job Description: We are looking for an enthusiastic individual to assist in scientific research in the nearshore oceanographic environment for the Partnership for Interdisciplinary Studies of Coastal Oceans (PISCO). This work has a strong focus on understanding how coastal ecosystem processes such as primary production, nutrient cycling and dissolved oxygen deficits (hypoxia) respond to changes in ocean conditions. Responsibilities include both laboratory and offshore field work.  At sea work includes: participating in research cruises on the R/V Elakha and R/V Kalipi; water sample collection; deployment, maintenance, and retrieval of oceanographic instruments; and occasional SCUBA diving (if qualified) to observe and recover moorings. Shore and lab work includes: chlorophyll-a and nutrient analysis of water samples; entering data; making sample devices; maintaining field equipment; preparing field collectors; assisting with instrument calibrations; and assisting professors, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students in their research as needed. This position requires working early mornings, long hours in the field and occasional weekends. It may also require staying at housing on the coast for short periods.

Required Qualifications: 

* Strong attention to detail

* Ability to work on a ship in rough seas 

* Ability to work collaboratively as part of an ecological research team

* Interest in near shore physical and biological oceanography Desirable Qualifications:

* AAUS scientific diving certification and cold water/ dry suit diving experience

* Prior experience working on small boats in the open ocean

* Prior experience with laboratory analysis

* First Aid and CPR certification

* Physically fit, hardworking and willing to work required hours

* Marine biology and/or oceanography coursework and/or fieldwork

Program: This project is part of the Partnership for the Interdisciplinary Studies of Coastal Oceans (PISCO), a large-scale marine research program that focuses on understanding the nearshore ecosystems of the U.S. West Coast http://www.piscoweb.org/what/area/index.html.  An interdisciplinary collaboration of scientists from four universities http://www.piscoweb.org/what/campuses/index.html, PISCO integrates long-term monitoring of ecological and oceanographic processes at dozens of coastal sites with experimental work in the lab and field.  We explore how individual organisms, populations, and ecological communities vary over space and time.

Salary: $11/hr. 

Dates: Approxomately mid-March 2009 through September, 2009.

Location: Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon

Housing:  We do not offer housing. 

Transportation:  Transportation to and from field sites and dock is provided.

 

If you would like to apply for this position, please email with Job ID# PO2 2009 as subject:

* a letter of intent explaining your interest in this work, your background, your dates available, and other pertinent information

* a CV or resume

* a copy of your college transcripts (unofficial copies accepted)

* a copy of your dive logs (if applicable)

* email and phone contact information for at least two references

To:           Jerod Sapp; PISCO lab manager; pisco@science.oregonstate.edu

               For more information, contact Jerod by email or check out our website at www.piscoweb.org.  Review of applications will begin February 15.

 

           (2) Summer Amphibian Research Positions (Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, Maryland)

Job Title: Salamander Field Technicians (2 positions)

Job Type: Seasonal

Location: Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Closing date: March 1, 2009

Opportunity Description:  Student Field Technicians: Salamander surveys in Shenandoah National Park

The U.S. Geological Survey’s Amphibian Research and Monitoring Initiative Northeast program will be hiring 2 student field technicians in 2009. One technician is needed beginning in the spring (01 May) through mid-August. Another technician will be hired for the summer from mid-June through mid-August. Both positions could be extended for 4-6 weeks in September and October, pending funding.

Technicians are primarily responsible for conducting salamander surveys in Shenandoah National Park (Virginia). Major duties involve terrestrial salamander surveys that include: active sampling for salamanders during the day by lifting of cover objects; passive sampling at night during and after rain events; capturing, measuring, weighing and possibly marking salamanders with elastomer; collecting tail tips for genetic analyses; and conducting habitat assessments. Technicians may also participate in a stream salamander surveys as well.

The position requires completion of academic coursework in wildlife biology or related fields.  Previous field experience with salamander surveys and the catching, handling, measuring and marking of amphibians is preferable. Students must be willing to work independently but most fieldwork will be conducted as part of teams of 2-3 people, so a demonstrated ability and desire to work effectively with a group is imperative. Work will be conducted on steep, rocky terrain during varying weather conditions.  Students need to be in good physical condition and comfort and competence with outdoor work. Students must possess a valid driver’s license and be able to work at least 40 hours per week under a flexible schedule (including early morning, nighttime and weekend work). Students are responsible for all costs of transportation to and from Shenandoah National Park. Housing accommodations are provided while in Shenandoah National Park in a facility shared with other research technicians and staff.  Compensation is commensurate with the level of education and experience (approximate wages are: $14-15/hour for two or more years of college, $16-18/hour for completion of BA/BS degree or higher).

To apply, send the following to Jennifer Sevin via email (sevinJ@si.edu) and copy to zootraining@si.edu by March 1, 2009 (for spring-summer technician) or April 1, 2009 (for summer only technician):

1.)     Cover Letter

2.)     Resume, including previous field experience, list of classes taken, contact information, and three reference contacts

3.)     One piece of evidence of current or recent (within past 12 months) enrollment in degree program (e.g., transcript, letter from University admissions, a current registration card)

Evan H. Campbell Grant

NE Amphibian Research and Monitoring Initiative

USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center

12100 Beech Forest Rd., Laurel, MD 20708

phone: 301.497.5842 fax: 301.497.5784

http://www.pwrc.usgs.gov/nearmi/

 

(6) Biological Technician Positions (USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, Maryland)

The USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center in Laurel, Maryland is seeking to hire 5 to 6 full-time temporary Biological Science Technicians for summer 2009 to assist in running several large-scale wildlife monitoring programs. Students interested in working with biological data related to wildlife surveys are encouraged to apply.

Please refer to these websites for more information about these programs: www.pwrc.usgs.gov/naamp

www.pwrc.usgs.gov/bbs

www.pwrc.usgs.gov/point

www.pwrc.usgs.gov/bbl

Applications deadline:

Please send cover letter and resume by: March 9, 2009

Statement of Work 2009

1. Types of Services Required: Assist in maintaining one of several wildlife monitoring databases: North American Amphibian Monitoring Program (NAAMP), North American Breeding Bird Survey (BBS), the Bird Point Count Database, and Bird Banding Laboratory (BBL).  Duties include: working with wildlife survey data, performance of quality assurance and quality control procedures on biological data, assisting with database management, photocopying and filing, preparation of maps, graphs, charts and other materials for web pages, and assisting in preparation of administrative correspondence.

2. Required Expertise/Skills:

Applicants must be currently enrolled at an accredited college or university.  Preference given to majors related to these positions, such as biology, wildlife management, or similar. Preference given to applicants with knowledge of computer software used to summarize and visualize data, with a strong interest in learning more (i.e. Excel, Access, ArcGIS).  Applicants must have good communication skills and be able to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.  Knowledge of distributions and natural histories of North American birds and/or amphibians is not required, but considered a plus.

3. Description of Working Conditions: These are full-time (8 hours/day, 40 hours/week), temporary positions. Work will be performed in an office environment located on the USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center campus in Laurel, MD.  Extended periods of computer use will be required.

4. Compensation: Compensation is commensurate with level of education and experience, salary range is: GS-3 is $12.69, GS-4 is $14.25/hr and GS-5 is $15.94.

Student is responsible for all costs of transportation to and from the principal duty station location. The Government does not provide housing, meals or other living expenses while working at the principal duty station. Travel away from the duty station is not expected.

5. Principal Duty Station: USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, 12100 Beech forest Road, Laurel, Maryland 20708-4038. Student may enter building only during business hours or when project manager is present.

Number of Students Required: 5 to 6

Estimated hours per position: 500

Approximate Start Date: 26 May 2009

Approximate End Date:   31 August 2009

We are flexible on start and end dates to accommodate the academic schedule of selected applicants.

Send resume and letter of interest to:  Linda Weir, Wildlife Biologist, lweir@usgs.gov

Inventory and Monitoring Internships (National Park Service in Colorado and Montana)

The National Park Service Rocky Mountain Inventory & Monitoring Network is looking for 2-3 field biological technicians to help out with vegetation, soil, and stream monitoring in 6 Colorado and Montana National Parks this summer. Only current undergraduate and graduate students are eligible. The job will be based out of Fort Collins,CO but most of the summer will be spent traveling and working outdoors. This is an awesome opportunity to spend some time in the national parks and gain federal job experience! 

We prefer students with some botanical training and experience in plant or stream ecology. Salary is based on experience and education (GS-4 or GS-5 level,$14.12 - $15.80/hr). In addition to salary, technicians will be compensated for travel (~$20/day).

Please see our website and click on “Seasonal Jobs” for more information about the job and application procedure: http://science.nature.nps.gov/im/units/romn/

Applicants should submit electronic copies of their resume, one or two reference letters (letters may be sent directly), current transcripts and proof of enrollment to Donna Shorrock at donna_shorrock@nps.gov by March 6, 2009.

Please email or call Donna at 970-225-3583 if you have any questions. 

Marine Ecology Internship (University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill)

Position title: Undergraduate research internship in marine fisheries and ecological conservation

Agency/location: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Institute of Marine Sciences, Morehead City, NC

Responsibilities: We seek summer interns to work in Charles H. (Pete) Peterson’s lab at the University of North Carolina’s Institute of Marine Sciences in Morehead City.  Interns will work on multiple studies in marine ecology, including foraging ecology of cownose rays, fish and crab predation on juvenile oysters, predator-prey interactions on oyster reefs, and impacts of climate change on estuarine habitats. Other studies include the effects of beach nourishment on coastal habitat, human effects on barrier island ecology, and sea turtle hatchling predation. This internship will involve field and laboratory work.  Interns will interact with both faculty and graduate students at the Institute of Marine Sciences.  Start and end dates are flexible.

Qualifications: Upper-division undergraduates or recent graduates with an interest in field work, research experience, and a biology background will be most competitive. SCUBA certification preferred.

 Salary and housing: A monthly stipend of $1300 will be provided.

Closing date: March 1, 2009.

Contact/Application: Please send the following 3 documents to the email below

1)  Resume, including GPA, email addresses of three references, and transcript (unofficial);

2)  A description of relevant experience (in 500 words or less); and

3)  A brief essay on how this internship fits into your professional goals (in 500 words or less)        

Email Nate Geraldi (geraldi@email.unc.edu) for further information.

NSF REU in Marine Science (University of Texas, Marine Science Institute)

Field Experiences in South Texas Coastal Dynamics, June 7 – August 14, 2009

Ten fellowships will be available for the summer of 2009, for undergraduate students to conduct independent research projects on the causes, effects and consequences of coastal environmental change. Each student will work with a faculty mentor on topics such as:

·       Watershed processes, land-sea interactions, coastal hydrology

·       Biogeochemistry, organic matter cycling, water column optics

·       Zooplankton ecology, phytoplankton physiology and ecology

·       Fish reproductive physiology, environmental toxicology

·       Estuarine ecology, seagrass and marsh ecosystems

·       Larval fish ecology, behavior, mariculture

·       Benthic and community ecology

Information on faculty research interests may be found at http://www.utmsi.utexas.edu/people/deptms.htm

REU @ the Marine Science Institute

The Marine Science Institute is located in Port Aransas, on 72 acres on the Gulf of Mexico.  REU projects will take advantage of the wide variety of coastal habitats near the Institute, including shallow bays, hypersaline lagoons, seagrass beds, estuaries, mangroves, and marshes.  UTMSI is the lead state agency for the 185,000-acre Mission-Aransas National Estuarine Research Reserve, the only reserve in the Western Gulf of Mexico biogeographic region.

The 10-week summer program begins with a 2-day research cruise on the R/V Katy and ends with a symposium in which students will present their research results.  Along the way, students will create web pages and blogs about their research, and participate in a variety of professional development activities.

·      Eligibility: Students must be undergraduates in their sophomore or junior year, and U.S. citizens or permanent residents of the U.S. and its possessions.

·      Stipends: Students will receive a summer stipend of $450 per week for the 10-week program, full room and board, a research allowance, and a travel allowance.

·       APPLY!  Program information can be found at http://reu.utmsi.utexas.edu

·       Deadline for applications is February 16, 2009.

Questions about the program may be directed to Dr. Edward Buskey, ed.buskey@mail.utexas.edu or Dr. Deana Erdner, derdner@mail.utexas.edu

All students who are offered a position at this REU site will have until March 15, 2009 to accept or reject the offer.  Any student who is asked to accept or reject an offer before this date should contact the NSF OCE REU Program Director, Lisa Rom, at elrom@nsf.gov or 703-292-7709.

REU in Plant Conservation (Chicago Botanic Garden, Northwestern University)

The Chicago Botanic Garden and Northwestern University are pleased to invited applications from undergraduate students to participate in a Summer Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program in plant conservation and biology. 

Eight undergraduate students will work closely with faculty from the Chicago Botanic Garden and Northwestern University to complete a research project, and present their results in a symposium at the completion of the program. Students can choose from a diversity of projects and study areas including: aquatics, molecular and quantitative genetics, pollination biology, biogeochemistry, and restoration ecology.

For details on the 2009 summer projects, please visit our web site: http://labs.corpus-callosum.com/cbg.  Our program emphasizes the collaborative nature of scientific research, scientific ethics, and career survival, and builds confidence in lab, field, and communication skills. 

The program will run from May 25 to August 2, 2009 (10 weeks).  Eligibility: Undergraduate freshmen, sophomores, juniors, or first semester seniors are welcome to apply. We especially encourage applications from students in under-represented groups. Please note that you must be a citizen or permanent resident of the U.S. or its possessions Participants will each receive a stipend ($4,160) plus housing and subsistence, assistance with travel to and from Chicago, and lab and field supplies.  We accept both postal mail and email applications, however, applications must be received by March 6, 2009. For more information, contact Dr. Nyree Zerega (nzerega@chicagobotanic.org) or Dr. Louise Egerton-Warburton (lwarburton@chicagobotanic.org).

 

REU Awards and Research Internships (Rocky  Mountain Biological Laboratory, Colorado)

Undergraduate Research Interns / REU / Senior Thesis Opportunities at the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory in Gothic, Colorado

Elevation: 9483 feet (2890.4 meters)

The Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory (RMBL) is currently accepting applications to fill 18 Advanced Undergraduate Research positions during summer, 2009.  This program targets rising seniors or students who have graduated.  Students conduct independent research under the supervision of RMBL scientists.  Potential topics include pollination, climate change, mutualisms, animal behavior and more.  Research statements written by mentors are available on our website (see below).  Students have the option of turning their research into a senior thesis at their home institution; the RMBL Science Director (sd at rmbl.org <sd@rmbl.org>) can help coordinate between RMBL and the home institution.  The Advanced Undergraduate Research Program is 10 weeks long (June 7 to August 15), though start and end dates are flexible.  Students should have a sincere interest in a career in field biology research. Fieldwork is difficult, and often tedious. We are looking for students with the mental and intellectual maturity to commit to hard work.  The application process is competitive.

The cost of the program is $4250.  Some students will pay the $4250 fee, some will receive partial or full scholarships from the RMBL and/or their home institution, and the remaining students will be funded from our National Science Foundation REU grant.  Students receiving a Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) award receive a $4,500 stipend, free room, board and travel.  Minorities underrepresented in the biological sciences are strongly encouraged to apply.

APPLICATION Deadline:  February 15, 2009 for REU Awards

APPLICATION Deadline:  April 1, 2009 for RMBL Financial support

APPLICATION Deadline:  April 1, 2009 or until programs are filled, for Regular Students

For more information about our Undergraduate Research Program, please see our website:

www.rmbl.org/education

(5) Science Education and Horticulture Internships (Highlands, North Carolina)

BIOLOGICAL STATION, HIGHLANDS NORTH CAROLINA

Five paid internships are available with applications due by April 4. Visit www.wcu.edu/hbs for application instructions. Positions are described below:

SUMMER INTERNSHIPS AT THE HIGHLANDS NATURE CENTER

Assistant Naturalists (2)

Wage: $8.50/hour, group housing, and possible college internship credit.

Hours: Full-time, temporary (40 hours per week, no overtime available, some Saturdays and evenings required), position is from mid-May through mid-August, but specific dates can be somewhat flexible.

Description:  Assistant Naturalists help with daily operations of the Highlands Nature Center.  Primary duties include working with the public to interpret the natural history of the Southern Appalachians and related Nature Center exhibits, answering questions about local natural areas and recreational opportunities, actively developing and teaching several environmentally-based educational programs for both children and adults, and serving as co-counselor for a series of Nature Day Camps for children ages 4 to 15.  Staff will also assist with the implementation of special evening programs for the public, and with the weekly evening lecture series.  Work also involves the feeding, cleaning, general care, and interpretation of live animal exhibits (mainly reptiles and amphibians).  Other general duties are also the responsibility of all Nature Center staff and include word processing; maintaining program schedules; participant registration; handling money; cleaning and maintaining exhibits, bathrooms, and animal enclosures on a daily basis; empty trash and recycling bins; care of live plants; etc.  Summer staff may also be occasionally asked to assist other Station employees in the office, library, or Botanical Garden.  These jobs may include heavy lifting (no more than 50 lbs.).  Assistant Naturalists work a 40-hour week, but the schedule will require flexibility including some weekend and evening work.

Qualifications:  Applicants should be majors (or recent graduates) in biology, zoology, botany, environmental science, science education, outdoor recreation, or other related fields.  Proficiency in dealing with the public is a must.  Ideal candidates should have experience working with children, familiarity with (or enthusiasm to learn) a variety of environmental education activities such as Project WILD, and experience caring for animals.  A basic knowledge of the flora and fauna of the Southern Appalachians is also desirable.  Applicants must be U.S. citizens and have a valid driver’s license, and must be in good physical condition to lead hikes.  Willingness to work a flexible schedule is a must.  Non-smokers are preferred.

To apply:  A State of North Carolina job application (PD107) must be completed.  Send application, cover letter, and a list of 3 references to Patrick Brannon, Highlands Biological Station, 265 N. Sixth Street, Highlands NC 28741.  Applications must be received by April 4.  For more information, please call 828-526-2623.

SUMMER INTERNSHIPS AT THE HIGHLANDS BOTANICAL GARDEN

Botanical Garden Assistants (2)

Wage: $8.50/hour, group housing, and possible college internship credit.

Hours: Full-time, temporary (40 hours per week, no overtime or benefits available), position is from mid-May through mid-August, but specific dates can be somewhat flexible.

Description:  Botanical Garden Assistants maintain gardens, trails, boardwalks, and bridges throughout the Station property, and helps to identify, label, and maintain native plant species.  This position may include working with the public to interpret the natural history of local plants and assisting with identification of native plant species. This job may involve heavy lifting (no more than 50 lbs.) and will sometimes involve working alone and in rainy weather.  Occasionally, the individual will be asked to assist other Station employees in the office, library, or Nature Center.

The successful applicant must be able to trim, cut, and pile brush; use a shovel, hoe, and other garden tools, as well as a wheel barrow, to do general gardening and trail repairs; help with lawn mowing and lawn maintenance on the campus; learn to identify wildflowers; collect and mount plant specimens; learn to make plant labels; and possibly help researchers with field work, as required.

Qualifications:  Applicants should be majors in biology, botany, horticulture, or some other environmental science.  The ideal candidate should have training and/or experience in field biology and landscaping, and good skills in dealing with people.  Familiarity with Southern Appalachian plant species and with horticultural practices is desirable.  Applicants must be U.S. citizens and possess a valid driver’s license.  Non-smokers are preferred.

To apply:  A State of North Carolina job application (PD107) must be completed.  Send application, cover letter, and a list of 3 references to Cyndi Banks, Highlands Biological Station, 265 N. Sixth Street, Highlands NC 28741.  Applications must be received by April 4.  For more information, please call 828-526-0188.

NATIVE PLANT GARDEN DESIGN INTERNSHIP (1)

Wage: $8.50/hour, group housing, and possible college internship credit.

Hours: Full-time, temporary (40 hours per week, no overtime or benefits available), position is from mid-May through mid-August, but specific dates can be somewhat flexible.

Description: Intern will work in the Highlands Botanical Garden to assist with design projects using native plants. The intern will help to identify, label, maintain, and improve existing native plant collections and update the Garden database to reflect the status of collections in the Garden. The intern will also work with horticulturists to design various demonstration gardens on site using native species. This job may involve heavy lifting (no more than 50 lbs.). Applicant must be flexible and capable and working well with various supervisors as well as independently.

Qualifications: Applicants should be majors in or have extensive experience in biology, botany, horticulture, landscape design, or some other environmental science. Familiarity with Southern Appalachian plant species and with horticultural practices is desirable. Applicants must be U.S.citizens and possess a valid driver’s license.

To apply: A State of North Carolina job application (PD107) must be completed. Send application, cover letter, and a list of 3 references to Anya Hinkle, Highlands Biological Station, 265 N. Sixth Street, Highlands NC 28741. Applications must be received by April 4. For more information, please call 828-526-2602.

REU Research in Assessment and Sustainable Management of Ecosystem Services (Arkansas Ozarks)

The University of Arkansas is conducting a Research Experience for Undergraduates (NSF/REU) during summer of 2009 for up to 15 undergraduates who have completed at least 3 semesters of coursework. The focus of this REU is on field-based research on ecological services, and each student will work with a faculty mentor on issues ranging from water quality to ecology of birds and black bears in the Ozarks. This program works primarily with federally recognized Native American tribes and Native American students. However, all other interested students are encouraged to apply. This 10-week program consists of a one-week emersion course on field methods, 8 weeks of intensive Research Experience and a one week Data Analysis and Symposia. Room and board are included at the University of Arkansas, as well as a $400 weekly stipend and a travel allowance.

University of Arkansas REU Program:

-10-week summer program, 1 June to 7 August  2009

-Stipend $4000, onsite room and board, round-trip travel costs

-Detailed Program Information:  www.ecoreu.uark.edu/

-Applications due: February 15, 2009

 

For applications and more information, contact:

Heather Sandefur

207 Engineering Hall

University of Arkansas

Fayetteville, AR 72701

ofc: 479.575.7585

email:  hsandef@uark.edu

 

Questions about this program can also be directed to Dr. Marty Matlock

(mmatlock@uark.edu) or Dr. Kimberly Smith (kgsmith@uark.edu).

Field Assistants for Lake Survey Project (University of Notre Dame, Midwest)

Position Description: 8-10 field assistants needed for lake survey project from late June to late August for approximately 10-12 weeks, with flexible start and end dates possible.  Project based at the University of Notre Dame but sampling will take place off-site Monday through Friday. Field sites include lakes in northern Indiana, northern Illinois, and southern Michigan. Accommodation at field sites provided.

Qualifications: Applicants should enjoy working outdoors and with others in a group setting. Field assistants will spend most of their time outdoors at the field site so candidates should be generally physically fit and have strong swimming skills. CPR/First aid certification before start date is required. Boating and/or snorkeling experience required. Valid driver’s license required. Experience identifying aquatic plants is preferable but not essential. Must pass background check.

Pay rate: $10/hour

Contact: For inquiries email Lindsay Chadderton (lchadderton@tnc.org) or

Joanna McNulty (mcnulty.9@nd.edu). To apply, send electronic resume, cover letter, and 3 references to Joanna McNulty (mcnulty.9@nd.edu), Program Coordinator for the Center for Aquatic Conservation at the University of Notre Dame.

Closing Date: Applications will be considered as received until March 1, 2009.

Field Internships / Independent Research in Forest Ecology/Global Climate Change (University of Minnesota)

We seek undergraduate or newly graduated students with a background or interest in biology, ecology, physiology, environmental science, biophysics, forestry, or related field. Interns are needed primarily from June until August but some workers as early as March and others workers are needed through November.

Field work will be split between research sites at the Cloquet Forestry Center in Cloquet, MN (http://cfc.cfans.umn.edu/), and the Hubachek Wilderness Research Center in Ely, MN.  An individual’s home base may be at either of these locations. Both research sites are in beautiful forested settings and provide access to the natural areas of Northern Minnesota including the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Typical work days are eight hours Monday through Friday, however some tasks require weekend, early morning or evening work. Travel between sites will be necessary.

General responsibilities include collecting and recording data in both field and laboratory environments in accordance with established protocols, limited data entry, and aiding principle investigators and graduate students as needed.  Specific field responsibilities include measurements of plant growth, physiology, and phenology; and routine maintenance of field instruments or research equipment. Desired qualifications include: 1) willingness to work hard in outdoor setting, 2) ability to follow research protocols, 3) familiarity with plant and tree species of Northern Minnesota, 4) an ability to work well and play well with others, and 5) enthusiasm and curiosity.

Independent Research

As part or independent of these positions, opportunities abound for guided research with project investigators: Peter Reich, Rebecca Montgomery, Roy Rich, Sarah Hobbie, or Jacek Oleksyn. We actively seek undergraduates, recent graduates or graduate students who want to undertake supervised research within the scope of the B4WARMED experiment. We encourage and will assist students to solicit student research funding as it may be available. Questions regarding research opportunities should be directed to Roy Rich at: rich0475@umn.edu. 

More information on independent research opportunities with B4WARMED can be found at: http://forestecology.cfans.umn.edu/opportunities.html

For more details follow the link or see attachment: http://forestecology.cfans.umn.edu/B4Warmed_Intern%20positions.pdf

Contact:

Please send resume including relevant experiences and work along with two references and dates available to:

Artur Stefanski                                         

Department of Forest Resources

University of Minnesota

1530 Cleveland Ave N.

St Paul, MN 55108 USA

email: stefa066@umn.edu

 

 

Field Research in Habitat Fragmentation of Tall Grass Praires (Illinois)

Summer field research experience for undergrads and recent graduates

Are you interested in gaining field research experience and learning about the ecology and evolution of plants and plant-animal interactions in fragmented prairie? We are looking for 3-5 summer field researchers for an NSF-funded project on habitat fragmentation of the tallgrass prairie. We are investigating how small plant population size influences inbreeding, demography, pollination, and herbivory in the purple coneflower, Echinacea angustifolia. This is a great summer internship or co-op for those interested in field biology or conservation research.

No experience is necessary, but you must be enthusiastic and hard-working. You will survey natural plant populations, measure plant traits in experimental plots, hand-pollinate plants, observe & collect insects, and assist in all aspects of research. Housing is provided and there is a stipend. Undergraduate students have the opportunity to do an independent project as an REU participant.

If you want more information or wish to apply, please visit this website http://echinacea.umn.edu/ or contact Stuart Wagenius. Applications due 6 March 2009.

Stuart Wagenius, Ph.D.

Conservation Scientist

Division of Plant Science and Conservation

Chicago Botanic Garden

1000 Lake Cook Road

Glencoe, IL 60022

phone: 847 835 6978

fax: 847 835 5484

email: stuart09@echinaceaproject.org

web: http://echinacea.umn.edu

 

Internship in Tropical Ecology and Evolution (University of Puerto Rico)

The Institute for Tropical Ecosystem

We are accepting applications for the Summer 2009 internship in Tropical Ecology and Evolution at El Verde Field Station, Puerto Rico.  The internship will run from June 1st  to August 7th, 2009.

Application deadline: 28 February 2009.

The program will offer students the opportunity to have hands-on experience fields such as:

- Plant Systematics and Population Biology.

- Plant Community Dynamics and Forest Ecology.

- Plant eco-physiology.

- Terrestrial Arthropod Ecology.

- Aquatic Insect Ecology.

Students will receive a stipend of $4,000.00 for the ten weeks duration of the program.  Round-trip plane ticket from home institution to Puerto Rico will be reimbursed, up to a maximum of $600.00.  The program will cover housing at the University of Puerto Rico and El Verde Field Station.  The National Science Foundation and the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras campus, fund the program.

The program is limited to undergraduate students pursuing a bachelor degree at a college or university during summer 2009 and to US citizen or permanent resident.

Application materials and further information can be found at http://ites.upr.edu/REU/

 

Forest Ecology/ Forestry/ Fire (Pinecrest, CA)

The U.S. Forest Service Pacific Southwest Research Station (www.fs.fed.us/psw/redding/) anticipates filling four temporary positions for the summer of 2009 (approximately late May or mid June through late August or mid September - start and end dates somewhat flexible) at the GS- 4 to GS-6 levels to assist with forestry and forest ecology research.  The duty station for the positions will be at Pinecrest, CA, 35 miles east of Sonora in the Central Sierra Nevada. 

Job description:  Successful applicants will assist with forestry and fire-related research projects in the Stanislaus-Tuolumne Experimental Forest, near Pinecrest, CA.  The objectives of the studies are 1) to evaluate the influence of stand spatial structure on natural regeneration and resilience to wildfire, and 2) develop methods for minimizing mortality of large pines when fire is reintroduced after a long period of fire suppression.  Duties will include laying out study plots using GPS, GIS, and compass, and taking data on forest structural attributes.  We will also be collecting tree cores using increment borers to investigate tree growth rates in changing competitive environments over time. 

These jobs are an excellent opportunity for students interested in gaining field experience.  One of the positions will be for a crew leader; for this position an undergraduate degree is required with some graduate work or experience beneficial.  Incoming graduate students looking for thesis/ dissertation research possibilities are especially encouraged to apply for the crew leader position.  Pay commensurate with education and experience (GS-4 = $13.18/hr [some undergraduate coursework specifically relating to the position], GS-5 = $14.74/hr [completed undergraduate degree, or one year of experience at the GS-4 level], GS-6 = $16.44/hr [some graduate coursework and/or experience]).  Employees are paid for federal holidays and accrue vacation time (4 hours per two week pay period). Housing in a nearby community and daily transportation to and from the work locations will be provided.

Qualifications:

o  Must be a student or will become a student in the fall.  No exceptions.

o  Coursework in forestry or ecology; GIS or GPS skills a plus but not necessary

o  Must be physically fit and capable of hiking long distances over difficult terrain

o  Enjoys being outdoors, and can deal with inclement weather and the occasional mosquito and stinging bee

o  Capable of living and working closely together with others

The Stanislaus-Tuolumne Experimental Forest is in a spectacular location just west of the Emigrant Wilderness and north of Yosemite National Park and contains some of finest remnant old-growth sugar pine mixed conifer forest outside of the National Parks. 

Please send resume, along with the name, title, address, phone number, and email address of at least three references to: eknapp@fs.fed.us.  While we will accept resumes as late as February 20, applicants are encouraged to apply promptly.  Positions are open until filled.  For more information call Eric Knapp (530) 226-2555.

Marsh Bird Field Technician (Ohio)

4-5 MARSH BIRD FIELD TECHNICIANS needed to assist two Masters research projects examining habitat use by secretive marsh birds in Ohio.  The study will examine factors influencing the distribution and abundance of marsh birds at multiple spatial scales.  Data collected for focal and secondary species will also be contributed to the Ohio Breeding Bird Atlas II.  Technicians will have an opportunity to work in large marsh complexes along Lake Erie and a variety of wetland habitats throughout the state.  Positions run from late April to July (exact dates to be determined). 

Responsibilities include conducting call-back surveys in early morning and evenings, identifying marsh vegetation, measuring habitat characteristics, and maintaining field equipment.  A six-day work week is possible, weather permitting.  A valid drivers license is required.  Knowledge of marsh vegetation and the ability to identify marsh birds such as rails and bitterns by sound are preferred but not required.  Preference will be given to applicants with strong vocal and visual bird identification skills.  Experience using a GPS unit and excellent navigational skills are also desired.  Applicants must be comfortable working in an aquatic environment, be able to use a kayak, have a strong work ethic, and be in good physical condition. 

Housing will consists of tents and/or a camper at various campsites throughout the state.

Applicants will need to supply their own binoculars. 

SALARY: $7.51 to $8.00 per hour depending on experience (Approximately $1,300 to $1,385 per average month at 40 hours per week) with possible overtime opportunities. 

TO APPLY: Please send a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references to KAREN WILLARD(willard.39 AT osu.edu) or BEN KAHLER (Kahler.14 AT osu.edu).  Email preferred but applicants may mail information to The School of Environment and Natural Resources, The Ohio State University, 2021 Coffey Rd., 210 Kottman Hall, Columbus, Ohio 43210-1085.  For more information, call Karen or Ben at (614) 292-9825.

Field Crew Positions in Forest Ecology (Pacific Northwest)

Summer Field Opportunities in Forest Ecology in western Oregon and Washington:  The DEMO Experiment

Description:  Field crew positions are available to participate in the Demonstration of Ecosystem Management Options (DEMO) Study, a long-term experiment that examines the responses of forest ecosystems to structural-retention harvests.

For more information on the study see: http://www.fs.fed.us/pnw/rmp/demo/

This summer we will measure growth and mortality of overstory trees, planted seedlings, and natural regeneration in mature forests of varying composition and structure.  Field sites are in the Umpqua National Forest (southwest Oregon), Gifford Pinchot National Forest (southwest Washington), and Capitol State Forest (western Washington).

These positions are best suited to mature, upper- level undergraduates or recent graduates who are considering advanced study or professional work in forest ecology or silviculture.  The nature of the work requires extended periods in the field (up to 8 consecutive days).  Housing is available during portions of the summer, but camping may be necessary at other times.

Qualifications:  Previous experience in vegetation sampling, familiarity with basic surveying and mensurational tools (compass, clinometer, diameter tape), and coursework in silviculture, forest ecology, or a related field.  Candidates must be in good physical condition, able to work long hours, and capable of navigating steep, slash-covered slopes. We seek individuals who are detail-oriented, have legible handwriting, and can work and live cooperatively with others.

Salary:  $12.50/hour or more, depending upon experience/qualifications.

Duration:  mid-June through mid-September 2009

Closing date:  March 6, 2009

To apply, send the following materials to the address below:

* a HANDWRITTEN letter describing interests, qualifications, specific dates of availability, and names and phone numbers of those providing letters of reference.

* a typewritten resume

* copies of either college transcripts or professional work products

* two letters of reference For more information:

Shelley Evans, Research Coordinator, College of Forest Resources, Box 352100, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195-2100;  Email:

saevans@u.washington.edu, Phone: 206.543.9792

or

Charlie Halpern, Research Professor, College of Forest Resources,

University of Washington, E-mail: chalpern@u.washington.edu

 

Field Assistants for Forest Ecology (Western Washington)

Summer Field Opportunities in Forest Ecology:

Restoration-thinning Experiment in the Cedar River Municipal Watershed, western Washington

Description:  Assist with post-treatment measurements of ground vegetation in an experiment on restoration thinning in young, closed-canopy forests of the Cedar River Municipal Watershed, western Washington.  We are studying responses of understory plant communities (including bryophytes) to changes in forest structure and light availability after experimental thinning.

Responsibilities:  quantifying the abundance of ground-layer species including bryophytes, herbs, shrubs, and tree seedlings; characterizing forest-floor conditions (woody debris, logging slash, and soil disturbance); and measuring various aspects of forest structure.

These positions are best suited to upper-level undergraduates or recent graduates who are considering advanced study or professional work in environmental science or field ecology/botany.

Qualifications:  Previous experience with surveying (including use of compass and meter tapes) and vegetation sampling.  Familiarity with the flora of western Washington. Ability to use taxonomic keys and to collect and catalogue plant specimens.

We seek individuals who are detail-oriented, responsible, able to spend long hours in the field under challenging conditions, and capable of working and living cooperatively with others.  Housing and daily transportation to the research sites will be provided.

Salary:  $12.50 - 14.50/hr depending on qualifications and experience

Duration:  mid-June through mid-September 2009

Closing date:  6 March 2009

To apply, send the following materials to the address below:

* a HANDWRITTEN letter describing interests, qualifications, specific dates of availability, and names and phone numbers of those providing letters of reference.

* a typewritten resume

* copies of either college transcripts or professional work products

* two letters of reference

 

For more information:

Shelley Evans, Research Coordinator, College of Forest Resources (CFR), Box 352100, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195-2100. E-mail:

saevans@u.washington.edu, Phone: 206.543.9792

or

Charlie Halpern, Research Professor, College of Forest Resources,

University of Washington, E-mail: chalpern@u.washington.edu

 

(6) U.S. Forest Service Position (Malheur National Forest in Prairie City, Oregon)

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

Forestry Aid/ Technician (Stand Examination)

SERIES & GRADE: GS-0462- 03/04/05

About the Position: Malheur National Forest will soon be filling up to 6 Forestry Aid/ Technician positions, GS-0462- 03/04/05, located at the Prairie City Ranger District.  This notification is being circulated to inform prospective applicants of this upcoming opportunity and to determine interest in the position.

Duties: Conducts routine procedural sampling tasks involving work methods and techniques that are well established and common to forest inventory functions. Conducts inspections, tests and/or sampling procedures; validates data and determines its sufficiency; and notes field conditions and circumstances under which data was collected for forestry programs.

The position: Six positions are being advertised with three temporary and three student hires. The incumbents independently, or as part of a team performs technical duties in support of the district silviculturist for a landscape scale inventory (stand examinations).

Location: This position is located in Grant County in eastern Oregon on the Malheur National Forest. The duty location is stationed at the Prairie City Ranger District, but project work may be within the three ranger districts.

Location of Malheur National Forest in eastern Oregon.

Measures and Records field data, and/or Sampling Support 100% Applies a practical knowledge of the methods and techniques of forestry and other biologically based resource management fields to perform work in support of an organization’s vegetation management efforts.

Collects technical data needed to prescribe stand treatment from a variety of sources such as instrument readings, measurements, tests, observations, and inspections. Measurements include radial growth, basal area, site index, stand density, stand condition, common stand exam, fuel loads, etc. May use a data recorder in the field. Interprets aerial photos, GPS equipment and/or maps to locate field plot locations. Contacts owners for permission to enter property. Locates specific study sites and reconstructs old plot configuration or establishes new plot parameters, as

instructed.

Work Schedule: A typical work week will be 4 ten hour days (Mon-Thurs) starting at 6:00 am. Three of the hires may be student hires (June-August) while three may be temporary hires (May-September (1039hrs).

Working conditions: The work is performed outdoors hiking in rugged terrain; to include very steep, wet, muddy, rough, uneven or rocky surfaces; positions require physical exertions, such as, bending, crouching, stooping, stretching, reaching, or similar activities. Individuals should be capable of working alone, or with other people, during early morning hours, night, or during the day. Due to the remoteness of the project area and as part of project work, the stand exam crew may be required to camp out periodically (i.e. spike camp). Work requires the use of safety equipment such as boots, gloves, goggles, and hardhats. May operate government vehicles on narrow paved and unpaved roads.

Vacancy Announcement: For either non-student or student hire please submit the form below and send it via email (wbrendecke@fs.fed.us) or mail (see form) to Will Brendecke. Interested applicants or those desiring further information should contact Will Brendecke of Dan Hubbard at (541) 820-3840/ 3842.

For non-student hires the vacancy announcement for this position will be posted on the U.S. Government’s official website for employment opportunities at, www.usajobs.gov under vacancy announcement TEMP-OCR-462-3-GEN, TEMP-OCR-462-4-TSP, TEMP-OCR-462-5-TSP.  This is an Open Continuous vacancy announcement with no closing date.  Those that wish to be considered for this position must apply to the vacancy announcement by February 27, 2009.  The Referral List for this position will be issued to the selecting official on March 6, 2007. Note: An Avue profile is required to apply to the announcement see https://www.avuedigitalservices.com/usfs/applicant.html to create a profile. Applicants need to indicate Prairie City, Oregon as their geographic location in order to be considered for this position.  All applicants who have applied to the announcement on or before the listed dates and are found to be qualified and in the quality group will be referred for consideration.

For student applicants fill out the form below and send with a copy of your resume? to the email or address listed above.

Hiring grade qualifications

MINIMUM FEDERAL QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

Grade 03: Qualifying experience for the GS-3 level includes six months general experience that demonstrates the applicant’s ability to perform the work of the position or that provided familiarity with the subject matter or processes of the occupation.

SUBSTITUTION OF EDUCATION FOR EXPERIENCE: Experience requirements may be met by successful completion of one (1) academic year of post high school education which included at least 6 semester/9 quarter hours in any combination of courses such as range management or conservation, agriculture, forestry, wildlife management, engineering, biology, mathematics, or other natural or physical sciences.

Grade 04: Qualifying experience for the GS-4 level includes six months general experience that demonstrates the applicant’s ability to perform the work of the position or that provided familiarity with the subject matter or processes of the occupation AND six months specialized experience at the GS-3 level that is directly related to the line of work of the position to be filled and which has equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position.

SUBSTITUTION OF EDUCATION FOR EXPERIENCE: Experience requirements may be met by successful completion of two (2) academic years of post high school education which included at least 12 semester/18 quarter hours in any combination of courses such as forestry, agriculture, crop or plant science, range management or conservation, wildlife management, watershed management, soil science, natural resources (except marine fisheries and oceanography), outdoor recreation management, civil or forest engineering, or wildland fire science. No more than 3 semester/4 quarter hours in mathematics is creditable.

COMBINATION OF EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Equivalent combinations of successfully completed education and experience may be used to meet the experience requirements.

Grade 05: Qualifying experience for the GS-5 level includes one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-4. Specialized experience is experience which is in or directly related to the line of work of the position to be filled and which has equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position.

SUBSTITUTION OF EDUCATION FOR EXPERIENCE: Experience requirements may be met by successful completion of a four (4) year course of study leading to a bachelors’ degree or the equivalent. Education must include at least 24 semester/36 quarter hours in any combination of courses such as forestry, agriculture, crop or plant science, range management or conservation, wildlife management, watershed management, soil science, natural resources (except marine fisheries and oceanography), outdoor recreation management, civil or forest engineering, or wildland fire science. No more than 6 semester/9 quarter hours in mathematics is creditable.

COMBINATION OF EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Equivalent combinations of successfully completed education and experience may be used to meet the experience requirements.

Note: Education transcripts must be submitted if used in the consideration of hiring grade.

To be considered, applicants must be U.S. citizens.

Thank you for your interest in this position

 

USDA Non-Discrimination Statement

Revised 6/8/2005

 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, reprisal, or because all or part of an individual’s income is derived from any public assistance program.  (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.)  Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA’s TARGET Center at (202)720-2600 (voice and TDD).  To file a complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, DC 20250-9410, or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TDD).  USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Contact Information:

OUTREACH RESPONSE FORM

Forestry Technician (Stand Examination) Prairie City Ranger District

GS-0462-3/4/5

Malheur National Forest

 

If you are interested in this position and will likely be applying for it, please complete this form and return it by February 27th to Will Brendecke 541-820-3840 (wbrendecke@fs.fed.us ) or Dan Hubbard (dhubbard02@fs.fed.us) , P.O. Box 337, Prairie City, OR  97869.

NAME: __________________________________________________________

EMAIL ADDRESS: _________________________________________________

MAILING ADDRESS: _______________________________________________

 

TELEPHONE NUMBER: ____________________________________________

EDUCATION: _____________________________________________________

                        Include titles of any degrees earned

Work Experience Related to the Major Duties as described on the Outreach Notice.  Please include name of the organization, location, position title, salary, dates of employment, and brief description of duties performed.

________________________________________________________________________

 

Thank you for your interest

(4) Field Technicians Needed for Fire Study (UC Berkeley Fire Science Lab, California)

UC Berkeley Fire Science Lab                                                                                                                                           

Fire and Fire Surrogate 5 Year Resampling

Carbon Sequestration and Fire Risk Assessment

Project Manager: Gary Roller (groller@nature.berkeley.edu)

Project Description:  This project will focus on the resampling of fire and fire surrogate treatments at Blodgett Forest Research Station. Additional research will examine carbon sequestration, soil chemical and physical properties, and tree growth and mortality. Other work on smaller studies will be conducted throughout the summer so some travel within California will be required.

Job Description:  Up to four field technicians are needed to assist a research associate in forest structure, vegetation, and fuels measurements. Field tasks will include but are not limited to: 1) typical forest inventory measurements, 2) fuel surveys, 3) tree coring, and 4) soil sampling. Field work will be conducted in mixed conifer forests in the Tahoe, El Dorado, and Sierra National Forests.  Technicians are needed for up to 4 months of work and start dates are flexible. Possible extensions are possible to allow for work on a fire crew to perform prescribed burns later in the fall. This position typically works eight 10-hour days with an early morning start, followed by 6 days off.  Housing is provided at all study sites but some camping may be required!

Additional Qualifications: 

•  Coursework or experience in forestry, natural resources management, forest ecology, or related field is desired but not required.

•  Applicants with strong botany interest and proficiency in identifying plants using keys are strongly preferred. 

•  Knowledge and ability to safely operate chainsaws.

•  Use of spreadsheet applications; ability to use or learn to use handheld data recorders, radios, GPS, and other field equipment

•  This position is physically demanding and will require the ability to hike off trail and work on steep slopes in hot sun for long periods.

Applicants must also be willing to work in dense brush and in buggy conditions. These positions are 100% field work.

•  Exposure to ticks, bees, rattlesnakes and other “surprises” are possible.

•  Technicians must be comfortable living in a bunkhouse or other shared living facility during the work week.

•  Technicians must have own vehicle, valid drivers license, and may be asked to drive to and from field sites.

TO APPLY: Please send a resume, cover letter, and 3 reference contacts to the above project manager. Feel free to email the project manager with any questions!

More information can be found at:

UC Berkeley Fire Science Lab:  http://www.cnr.berkeley.edu/stephens-lab/index.htm

UC Berkeley Center for Forestry: http://www.cnr.berkeley.edu/forestry/index.php

UC Berkeley Fire Surrogate Study: http://www.cnr.berkeley.edu/fire-surrogate-study/

 

Undergraduate Fellowships in Applied Plant Ecology (San Diego, CA)

The Applied Plant Ecology division of San Diego Zoo’s Conservation Research center has two fellowship positions available for summer 2009 (http://cres.sandiegozoo.org/index.html ).  Applied Plant Ecology focuses on conservation, sustainable management and restoration of ecosystems worldwide.  Students will have the opportunity to conduct independent research projects while participating in many of the division’s other projects and activities. 

One fellow will focus on seed ecology and conservation as part of our Millennium Seed Bank project, which collects, conserves, and studies the seed biology of San Diego County native plants.  The county is a biodiversity hotspot with an incredibly diverse native flora, making seed conservation and research critically important.

The second fellow will focus on post-fire coastal sage scrub and cactus scrub restoration research in the 900 acres of native habitat adjacent to the Wild Animal Park. This project provides an opportunity to work on plant population and community ecology while also exploring interactions between habitat and herpetofauna biodiversity.

Internships are 12 weeks in duration with flexible start/end dates.  Interns receive a $5,520 stipend for the summer.  For more information about these fellowships and download the application, go to: http://cres.sandiegozoo.org/involved/fellowships.html. All applications must be postmarked no later than February 28.

 

Crew Leader and Field Technician Needed (UC Berkeley Wildlife Research, California)

A crew leader and field technician and are needed to conduct a variety of animal surveys as part of a long-term food web study in the Carrizo National Monument from early April until mid-late August 2009. The Carrizo is the largest remnant of the San Joaquin grassland ecosystem and contains many endangered plants and animals. Employees will work on a team of 3-5 people and will conduct a variety of surveys, focusing especially on mark-recapture and radio telemetry of endangered kangaroo rats. Mark-recapture surveys of threatened squirrels, point counts for birds, visual line transects for reptiles, pitfall trapping for invertebrates, and spotlight surveys for predators and lagomorphs will also be conducted, and team members will help with vegetation sampling.

All applicants must be pursuing or have a bachelor’s degree in the natural sciences and have previous field experience. Previous supervisory experience is desired for the crew leader position. A strong interest in natural history, conservation, and/or management and a high level of responsibility, organization, and motivation are required. PIT tagging experience, small mammal trapping experience, and familiarity with the plants and animals of California are particularly desired. Must live and work well with others in an isolated setting and be positive and flexible. Applicants must be in good physical condition and able to tolerate hot field conditions.

The work schedule is approx. 40 hrs per week, usually 5 days on/2 days off but varies through season. Compensation is $2167/month plus health benefits for technician, $2423/month plus health benefits for crew leader. Housing is provided at an active research facility on the Monument at no cost.

To apply, please send a cover letter, resume, and contact information for 2-3 references to Laura Prugh by February 20, 2009 at prugh@nature.berkeley.edu. Inquiries can also be directed to Laura by email or phone (510-643-3918). For more information about the project: http://ecnr.berkeley.edu/persPage/dispPP.php?I=1512

 

Field Research in Boreal Forest (Northern Minnesota)

Northern Minnesota is a focal point of potential climate warming impacts because it sits at the transition between the boreal and temperate forest biomes. The B4WARMED (Boreal Forest Warming at an Ecotone in Danger) experiment is a unique manipulative experiment that warms both plants and soil in the field to emulate future climate scenarios. This experiment examines how tree seedlings and germinants respond to predicted warming with respect to physiology, phenology, growth, and survival.

For more information: http://forestecology.cfans.umn.edu/B4WARMED.html

We seek undergraduate or newly graduated students with a background or interest in biology, ecology, physiology, environmental science, biophysics, forestry, or related field.

Interns are needed primarily from June until August but some workers as early as March and others workers are needed through November.  

Research site and work day description: 

Field work will be split between research sites at the Cloquet Forestry Center in Cloquet, MN (http://cfc.cfans.umn.edu/), and the Hubachek Wilderness Research Center in Ely, MN.  An individual’s home base may be at either of these locations. Both research sites are in beautiful forested settings and provide access to the natural areas of Northern Minnesota including the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Typical work days are eight hours Monday through Friday, however some tasks require weekend, early morning or evening work. Travel between sites will be necessary.    

Responsibilities:

General responsibilities include collecting and recording data in both field and laboratory environments in accordance with established protocols, limited data entry, and aiding principle investigators and graduate students as needed.  Specific field responsibilities include measurements of plant growth, physiology, and phenology; and routine maintenance of field instruments or research equipment. Desired qualifications include: 1) willingness to work hard in outdoor setting, 2) ability to follow research protocols, 3) familiarity with plant and tree species of Northern Minnesota, 4) an ability to work well and play well with others, and 5) enthusiasm and curiosity.

Independent Research:

As part or independent of these positions, opportunities abound for guided research with project investigators: Peter Reich, Rebecca Montgomery, Roy Rich, Sarah Hobbie, or Jacek Oleksyn. We actively seek undergraduates, recent graduates or graduate students who want to undertake supervised research within the scope of the B4WARMED experiment. We encourage and will assist students to solicit student research funding as it may be available. Questions regarding research opportunities should be directed to Roy Rich at: rich0475@umn.edu. 

More information on independent research opportunities with B4WARMED can be found at: http://forestecology.cfans.umn.edu/opportunities.html 

Contact:

Please send resume including relevant experiences and work along with two references and dates available to:

Artur Stefanski M.S.                               

Department of Forest Resources

University of Minnesota

1530 Cleveland Ave N.

St Paul, MN 55108 USA

email: stefa066@umn.edu

 

REU in Arctic Research (Toolik Lake, Alaska)

Title:  Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU)   

Position Summary:  The Ecosystems Center of the Marine Biological Laboratory is seeking undergraduate applicants for several Arctic research projects. Successful candidates will participate in field research on either terrestrial or aquatic ecosystems in the Toolik Lake Research Natural Area on the North Slope of Alaska. The Research Experience for Undergraduate (REU) positions are available to U.S. citizens or Permanent Residents only who are currently enrolled as undergraduates at U.S. colleges or universities (no graduating seniors).   

Additional Information:  In addition to gaining experience by assisting on a variety of project activities, REU students typically assume an independent project that is linked to larger studies of lakes, streams, tundra or land-water interactions. REU participants are expected to collect and analyze data and to produce a poster describing their project near the end of the field season. We anticipate funding for support of two to four REU positions during the 2008 field season.

Candidates for these jobs should be available to live at Toolik Field Station for 8-10 weeks during June, July and August. Travel to Toolik Field Station is paid for by grant funds as well as the cost of room and board at the station.   

Basic Qualifications:  Applicants should have completed basic coursework in biology, chemistry and ideally ecology or ecosystem studies. Attention to detail and a desire to learn new laboratory and field techniques are essential.   

Preferred Qualifications:    

Physical Requirements: Applicants should be in good health, capable of rigorous outdoor activity, and prepared to live in a field camp where cooperation with others is essential, personal privacy is limited, and living accommodations are spare and simple.   

Required Applicant Documents:  Resume/CV

Cover Letter   

Special Instructions to Applicants:  Unofficial transcripts are required documents, but may be uploaded with your application or faxed to the Human Resources Office at 508-457-1548. If faxing, please reference this posting.   

Apply online at mbl.simplehire.com/An Equal Opportunity Employer

REU in Ecological Genetics (Texas A&M)

The department of Entomology at Texas A&M University is recruiting undergraduate students to participate in a 10-week intensive summer research experience. We are the only Entomology Department in the nation that hosts NSF-REU students.  If you are selected for this program you will be funded to go to Texas A&M University for ten weeks to complete a research project and to interact with other NSF-REU students in the Department and in the University. We will cover your airfare from and to your US city of origin, pay for your lodging, and living expenses and pay also for you to present your data at a national meeting this year.

As part of the NSF-REU effort, I will host one student in my laboratory this summer. My research interests center on the role of predators and parasitoids in the regulation of herbivore insect populations and, in particular, how host-plants influence these interactions. My current research focuses on population genetic aspects of insect herbivores and their natural enemies. One of the research lines in my laboratory involves the study of the evolution of host ranges in parasitoid and hyperparasitoid species. Projects involving specialist and generalist parasitoids of Lepidoptera in Maryland, Northern Italy and in Finland are allowing us to increase our knowledge on the influence of host-range in the population dynamics of parasitoids and hyperparasitoid species. The NSF-REU student joining our lab this summer is expected to contribute to this project by finding out if the population structure of parasitoid species differs between generalist and specialist parasitoids co-occurring in the same geographic areas. We hypothesize that specialist parasitoids will present a more structured population than generalist parasitoids. The NSF-REU student that joins our lab will learn to extract DNA, to do PCRs, and to use population genetic and molecular analysis software to analyze her/his data. The results obtained by the student will be presented in a poster at the Entomological Society of America meeting in Indianapolis at the end of the year.

The NSF-REU program is funded through the National Science Foundation’s Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program.  We especially encourage applications from underrepresented minorities and from students from 2-year institutions. All participants must be U.S. Citizens or permanent residents, and must be planning to enroll as an undergraduate in an accredited college or university in the fall of 2009.

If you are interested please send me an email with your CV and a one page statement of purpose to:

Dr. Raul F. Medina: rfmedina@tamu.edu or call me at the number below if you have any questions.

Raul F. Medina

Assistant Professor

Texas A&M University

Department of Entomology

College Station TX 77843-2475

USA

Phone: (979) 845-8304

Fax:     (979) 845-6305

 

REU in Integrated Ecology (Bradley University, Illinois)

Bradley University’s Biology Department is recruiting six undergraduate students to participate in a 10-week intensive summer research experience in integrated ecology. From June 8 - August 14, 2009, participants will work in collaborative research teams and will gain experience in molecular, physiological, organismal, community and ecosystem approaches to address real environmental problems along the Illinois River Corridor. Previous research has included forest and wetland ecology, invasive species, river ecosystem health, and the effects of land-use change on soil and plants. Participants will receive training in techniques necessary to carry out their research, as well as engage in weekly talks about broader scientific topics and ethical practices.  Projects will culminate in a final report and presentation of results at an end-of-summer scientific colloquium.

Students will receive a $3,500 fellowship stipend, $1,000 food stipend, free on-campus housing, and travel funds.  Minority and female students are strongly encouraged to apply.

The program is funded through the National Science Foundation’s Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program.  We especially encourage applications from underrepresented minorities and from students from 2-year institutions. All participants must be U.S. Citizens or permanent residents, and must be planning to enroll as an undergraduate in an accredited college or university in the fall of 2009.

Applications will be reviewed beginning March 2, 2009.

Successful applicants will be notified on or before April 3, 2009.

Applications are available at http://www.bradley.edu/academics/las/bio/research/underGrad.shtml

Questions may be directed to Dustin Hermann at dherrmann@bradley.edu

Dr. Sherri Morris

Biology Department

Bradley University

1501 W. Bradley Avenue

Peoria IL 61625

(309) 677-3016 (office)

(309) 677-3558 (fax)

 

Suburban Ecology Internship (Mianus River Gorge Preserve, Upstate New York)

Program Description: The MRGP offers 2 internship positions for undergraduate students interested in the conservation and management of protected areas in urbanizing landscapes. Interns will work alongside staff and graduate students on a variety of research studies including camera trapping and radio-tracking of white-tailed deer, monitoring screech owl populations, amphibian surveys, and more (see www.mianus.org). Interns will also be responsible for assisting high school students conducting ecological studies through our Wildlife Technician Program. Interns will have the opportunity to take 2-3 field trips to institutions such as the American Museum of Natural History for behind the scenes tours. Located in northern Westchester County, the MRGP is one hour north of NYC and one hour south of the Hudson Highlands and Catskill Mountains.

Each internship lasts for a period of 6-8 weeks (June-July). Interns will receive a stipend of $100/week.  

Applicant Eligibility: All undergraduate students are eligible to apply. While we do not require applicants to major in a particular discipline, exposure to the fields of ecology or environmental science is helpful. Students must like to work outside, enjoy working both alone and as a member of a team, and demonstrate independent thinking. An off-site apartment is available rent-free; however, interns must have their own vehicle.  

Application Process: Please fill-out the application (www.mianus.org) and submit along with 1 letter of recommendation and your CV/resume. Deadline March 15, 2009. Applicants may be contacted for a phone interview. All applicants will be notified of their acceptance by April 15, 2009.

Applications can be submitted by e-mail: mweckel@mianus.org

Questions: Contact Mark Weckel @ 914-234-3455

Biological Science Technician (USDA Forest Service, Modoc National Forest, CA)

The Modoc National Forest is looking for 5 qualified Field Botanists and 2 Weed Crew members for summer 2009.  The employment extends from mid-May through August (start and end dates are flexible). The positions are based out of the Forest Supervisor’s Office in Alturas, CA, and will work throughout the 1.6 million acre forest. Plant habitats include red fir, whitebark pine, and mixed conifer forests; pumice flats; sagebrush and juniper covered lava flows; vernal pools; and fens.

Job descriptions and Qualifications: Botany Surveying (GS-5, $14.24/hour): Botanists conduct field surveys for Threatened, Endangered, Sensitive, and Watch List plants. Surveys require documenting locations using GPS and topographic maps, and maintaining field records.

Desired Skills: Must be able to identify plants to species using dichotomous keys, and have completed a plant taxonomy or systematics course. Familiarity with California or Great Basin flora a plus. Must be able to navigate cross-country using map and compass. GPS and GIS skills are helpful. Must be physically able to work long days in rough terrain, walking 5-10 miles per day.

Weed Crew (GS-4, $12.73/hour): Weed crews locate and manually remove noxious weeds, document weed locations using GPS and topographic maps, and maintain field records of treatments.

Desired Skills: Ability to identify plants, and to perform strenuous physical labor in hot weather conditions and rough terrain. GPS, GIS and navigational skills are helpful.

Basic Qualifications:

• GS-4: Minimum 2 years college with 12 semester hours of science/technical courses, or 6 months general experience plus 6 months specialized experience at GS-3 level.

• GS-5: Bachelor’s degree with 24 semester hours of science/technical courses, or 1 year specialized experience at GS-4 level, or a combination of education and experience.

• Over 18 years of age, and a U.S. Citizen To Apply:

Apply through the automated Forest Service job application site, AVUE: ttps://www.avuedigitalservices.com/usfs/applicant.html

For Botany Surveying Positions, apply for: Biological Science Technician (Plants) TEMP-OCR-404-5-PLANT

For Weed Crew Positions, apply for: Biological Science Technician (Plants) TEMP-OCR-404-4-PLANT

NOTE: You must list Alturas, CA as one of your top nine location choices to be considered for these positions.

Students: Continuing students are eligible for direct hiring under the Student Temporary Employment Program (STEP), and should submit a resume and transcripts directly to the Forest Botanist: Judy Perkins, Modoc National Forest, 800 W. 12th Street, Alturas, CA 96101; jperkins@fs.fed.us; (530) 233-8827.

APPLICATION DEADLINE:  FEBRUARY 28, 2009

Botany Positions (Western Washington)

Summer Botany Positions in western Washington: The DEMO Experiment

Description: Field crew positions are available to participate in the Demonstration of Ecosystem Management Options (DEMO) Study, a long-term experiment that examines the effects of current management practices on forest ecosystems (http://www.fs.fed.us/pnw/rmp/demo/).  This summer, field assistants are needed to measure understory plant abundance at two sites located within the Gifford Pinchot National Forest (southwest Washington).  Sites are near the Goat Rocks Wilderness and Cispus and Wind Rivers.  The location of the sites and nature of the work require extended periods in the field (up to 8 consecutive days), camping, and limited access to facilities (e.g., showers, telephone, email).  Travel to sites will be provided from Seattle, Washington and Portland, Oregon (depending on crew member preferences).

Qualifications:  These positions are best suited to individuals that have or are working toward a degree in botany, ecology, or related fields; have previous experience sampling vegetation; and are familiar with forest understory plants of the Pacific Northwest.  Candidates must be in good physical condition, able to work long hours, and capable of navigating steep, slash-covered slopes.  We seek individuals who are detail-oriented, have legible handwriting, and can work and live cooperatively with others.

Salary:  $12.00-$14.00/hr, depending upon experience.

Duration: mid-June through mid-September 2009, with some flexibility in end date.

Closing date:  Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis through March 6, 2009.

To apply, send 1) a cover letter that includes information on your qualifications and dates of availability, 2) a resume, 3) copies of either college transcripts (unofficial copies are acceptable) or professional work products, and 4) two letters of reference to:  Cara Nelson, College of Forestry and Conservation, University of Montana, 32 Campus Drive, Missoula, MT 59812.  Cara.nelson@cfc.umt.edu.

Field Crew Leader, Forest Dynamics (University of Wisconsin-Madison)

The Waller lab at UW-Madison seeks someone knowledgeable in temperate forest understory plant identification to lead a summer field crew in southern Wisconsin.  We prefer to hire an individual with student status in the fall, but will also consider non-students with the skills we are looking for.  Please pass this along to those that may be qualified.

JOB DESCRIPTION:  We seek an enthusiastic person skilled in plant identification of herbs, shrubs, and trees of North America with some prior fieldwork experience.  This person will lead a crew of 2-3 people in the collection of data on vegetation composition, plant traits, and earthworm abundance in Wisconsin forests.  The position will be based in Madison (housing not provided) but will require travel, including some overnight stays away from Madison. On average the position will be 3-4 days a week in the field and 1-2 days in the lab.  The applicant should hold a driver’s license with a good record. Start and end dates are negotiable.  Pay ranges from $9 - $12 an hour based on experience. For more information on work in the Waller lab see http://www.botany.wisc.edu/waller/ 

TO APPLY:  Applicants should send a cover letter, resume, and contact information for two references to Kathryn Amatangelo (kamatang@gmail.com). Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Native Wetland Plant Nursery Internship (Maryland)

INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITY: SUMMER 2009

Description:  General internship in a wholesale native wetland plant nursery

Start date:  May 18, 2009

Length of Internship: 12-15 weeks; 40 hours/week

Hourly wage: $9.00

Applicant requirements: At least 2 years of college with focus in horticulture, botany, plant science, or a related field; strong interest in ecological restoration.

Application deadline: March 23, 2009

Environmental Concern’s Wholesale Native Wetland Plant Nursery has been providing quality native plants for successful wetland restoration projects for 35 years.  We are seeking two summer interns who are interested in developing skills in the horticulture and nursery industry and share a passion for native plants and restoration of the Chesapeake Bay. 

Interns will receive specific training in native plant propagation and plant health care, and gain work experience in the wholesale native plant nursery industry.  They will work along side other nursery staff and will work closely with nursery management to develop one independent research project. Interns may also have the opportunity to participate in outplanting and environmental education projects with EC’s Restoration and Education Departments.

Who should apply: Applicants must have completed at least 2 years of college with a focus/strong interest in horticulture, botany, plant science, or a related field and should be capable of rigorous outdoor work, including lifting up to 50 lbs.  Applicants also need reliable transportation to and from work each day. 

Please send cover letter and resume to:

Environmental Concern Inc.

Attn: Leslie Hunter-Cario

P.O. Box P

St. Michaels, MD 21663

Phone: (410) 745-9620

Fax: (410) 745-3517

horticulture@wetland.org

 

Undergraduate Turtle Research Internship (Maryland)

University student needed for study of habitat use by mud turtles (Kinosternum subrubrum)

The Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary has one position open for an undergraduate intern to help with an on-going study of mud turtle (Kinosternum subrubrum) ecology and habitat use. Mud turtles are small, omnivorous turtles that divide their time between aquatic and terrestrial habitats. The objectives of our study are to determine how adult male and female turtles differ in their use of habitat space. We track turtles using radio telemetry and GPS devices in freshwater tidal wetlands on the Patuxent River estuary in central Maryland.

The Sanctuary is a 1,500 acre ecological field station and environmental education center in southern Anne Arundel County, Maryland. The Sanctuary is operated by the county parks department and is a member of the Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve.  To learn more about the Sanctuary visit www.jugbay.org.

Applicants should enjoy fieldwork and should be able to tolerate long hours in the field under hot, wet and muddy conditions. It helps to have a high degree of self-motivation. In addition to helping with turtle studies, the intern also helps with bird banding, reptile surveys, a BioBlitz, fish seining, and water quality studies. The intern will carry out an independent research project on some aspect of mud turtle ecology. At the end of the season in August, the intern gives an oral presentation and turns in a written report on their independent project. Interns work under the supervision of Sanctuary Director Chris Swarth. The Friends of Jug Bay, Anne Arundel County, and the Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve provide the funding for this project.

Qualifications: Applicant must be a life science major at the junior or senior level (recent graduates are okay).  Previous ecological field research is a plus.

Work schedule: May 1 to August 15. An earlier state date will also work. Interns work 5 days/week. Occasional weekend work and evening work is required.

Housing: There is no on-site housing.  Interns will need to find their own housing. The Sanctuary is 18 miles south of Annapolis and 15 miles east of Washington, DC.

Stipend Award: $3,600.

Application Procedure: Please send a cover letter with statement of goals and explaining why you want the position; resume detailing education and work experience; transcripts (need not be “official”); and the names and email addresses of 3 references. Send application materials to: Chris Swarth, Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary, 1361 Wrighton. Rd., Lothian, MD 20711, or by email to cswarth@jugbay.org.

Deadlines: Application materials must be received by March 20.

 

***Internships (Abroad)***

Summer Research in Dublin

This summer programme offers research projects and activities for students in organismal biology using biological collections, combining resources from University College Dublin, the National Museum of Ireland, and the National Botanic Gardens. Students must apply to work with a specific research group.

Please circulate this notice to undergraduate students and other colleagues who may be in contact with potential summer students. Note the closing date for applications is March 29 2008.

Collections-Based Biology in Dublin

Undergraduate Research Experience & Knowledge Award (CoBiD-UREKA)

Full funding for the 10-week programme will be provided for 10 successful candidates, including assistance with air transportation to and from Dublin, accommodation in Dublin, and a small weekly living allowance, as well as research project expenses. The programme is open to students of all nationalities.

Term dates: June 15 to August 21 2008

Students must submit an application form (available online) and arrange for a letter of support to be sent to UREKA@ucd.ie  For application instructions, research group descriptions, and more information:

http://www.ucd.ie/ureka/

Applications must be received by 29 March 2009

Bird Monitoring in Costa Rica (English Version)

Please respond to Pablo or John Ralph.

INTERNSHIPS AVAILABLE FOR BIRD MONITORING IN COSTA RICA -- We have openings for Volunteer Bird Banding Interns at a bird monitoring station in the coastal Caribbean town of Tortuguero, Costa Rica. Positions are available throughout the year with the minimum length of stay around 2 months.  Participants are expected to have experience in identifying birds, and they usually have removed from mist nets and processed at least 200 landbirds.  The Primary Bander will have extensive experience operating a capture station and can be awarded up to half their airfare to and from San José, Costa Rica.  Latin American Volunteers are especially encouraged and may be eligible for other reimbursements.  All volunteers receive their room and board while they are staying at the well-appointed station of the Caribbean Conservation Corporation, Estacion Biologica, in Tortuguero (http://cccturtle.org/ccc-costarica.htm ).  We and our collaborators in Costa Rica have been operating five monitoring stations near the village for over a decade.  We operate mist nets for resident and migrant species and conduct migration censuses of the millions of diurnal migrants moving along the coast.

or more information see http://www.fs.fed.us/psw/topics/wildlife/birdmon/landbird/tortuguero/ Positions will be open until filled.  Please send (emailed text documents preferred) a resume and a cover letter that includes your bird banding experience, ability with Spanish/English, dates available, three references and any questions to Pablo A. Herrera, paherrera@fs.fed.us , AND Dr. C. John Ralph, cjr2@humboldt.edu, 707 825-2994 (fax 707 825-2901), U.S. Forest Service, Redwood Sciences Laboratory, 1700 Bayview Drive, Arcata, California 95521.

***Opportunities***

Five Week Northern Rockies Environmental Science Field Course

Many aspects of environmental science are best learned in the field. Come join us for an intense, unique 5 week undergrad learning experience combining geology, geomorphology, hydrology, ecology and remote sensing. We cross the country starting in Pennsylvania and spend more than 3 weeks exploring the northern Rockies in Wyoming and Idaho. The course is designed for mid to upper level students with a background in any one of disciplines. Strong focus on group

problem-solving and collaborative research.

Monday June 1, to Friday July 3, 2009

$3100, EVERYTHING INCLUDED - tuition, fees, food, travel

 

DO NOT DELAY, CAMP IS NEARLY FULL

See webpage for more information:

http://www.lehigh.edu/~fjp3/fieldcamp/index.html

EES 395 Environmental Science Field Camp (6 credits)

We are offering this camp at the junior-senior level as a capstone experience.  The curriculum will revolve around basic geology, hydrology, ecology, soils, geomorphology, limnology, and impacts of western land use and resource management.  We will incorporate electronic mapping, GPS, and GIS technology into projects wherever practical.

This is a CAMPING field camp.  We never stay in a hotel and we prepare and cook all of our food fresh in a group kitchen. This is also a PHYSICALLY CHALLENGING camp.  We do a lot of hiking during the mapping projects. The venue provides excellent and numerous recreational

opportunities including fishing, local rodeos, and wilderness backpacking. Evenings and days off include visits to towns such as Wall Drug, SD, Jackson and Pinedale, WY, and Mackay, ID.

Contact me soon if you are interested,

Patrick Belmont (belmont@umn.edu)

 

Patrick Belmont, Ph.D.

Postdoctoral Associate, National Center for Earth-surface Dynamics,

University of Minnesota, St. Anthony Falls Laboratory

#2 Third Avenue SE

Minneapolis, MN 55414

USA

Fax: 612-624-4398

 

Scholarships for Wildland Conservation ($10,000)

Gloria Barron Wilderness Society Scholarship

The Wilderness Society is now accepting applications for the 2009 Gloria Barron Wilderness Society Scholarship. This $10,000 scholarship is awarded annually to a graduate student in natural resources management, law or policy programs.

The scholarship seeks to encourage individuals who have the potential to make a significant positive difference in the long-term protection of wilderness in North America.

The award is made in support of research and preparation of a paper on an aspect of wilderness establishment, protection, or management. The work may apply to a particular landscape or it may address issues broadly.  We strongly encourage proposals relating to climate change, as well as other topics regarding wilderness conservation.

For more information and application instructions, please visit our website at

http://wilderness.org/content/gloria-barron-scholarship-guidelines

 

Summer Field Course in Belize 2009

Ecology, Behavior & Conservation of Manatees & Dolphins

A Unique Field Course in the Drowned Cayes, Belize

May 30 - June 12, 2009

 

Instructors:  Caryn Self-Sullivan, Ph.D.(1, 2) and Bruce A. Schulte, Ph.D.(1)

(1)Department of Biology, Georgia Southern University

(2)President & Co-founder, Sirenian International

 

Want to be a Marine Mammal Biologist?

Want to be a Behavioral Ecologist?

 

Here’s your chance to join our research team for two intense weeks of total immersion into the world of Animal Behavior, Antillean manatees, bottlenose dolphins in Belize! 

Become totally immersed into island living, behavioral ecology and marine biology through lectures and learning activities, literature review, debate, projects, and field research. This unique field course combines an overview of the ecology, behavior, and conservation of sirenians and cetaceans with hands-on manatee & dolphin research in the Drowned Cayes, Belize.

View photos and videos from previous classes on our Facebook page!

(http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/event.php?eid=44549155278)

Get out of the classroom!  You’ll spend 3-4 hours on the water each day learning about the environment as we explore a labyrinth of mangrove islands, seagrass beds, and coral patches searching for elusive manatees and charismatic dolphins. You’ll collect behavioral and environmental data and learn about photo-id techniques; you’ll develop a Fact Sheet or Activity Booklet about a related topic to be published by the Hugh Parkey Foundation for Marine Awareness & Education and/or Sirenian International. Extra-curricular activities include diving or snorkeling at Turneffe Atoll, and exploring an ancient Maya City.

This unique course has a work load equivalent to 4 university credit hours and is divided into 4 major components: lectures and learning activities (~1 hour per day), independent reading and assignments (~2 hour per day), data collection in the field (~4 hours per day), project development (~1 hours per day) and debate/group discussion of reading materials (~1 hours per day). 

Want credit towards your degree? No problem! Sign up for independent study with an advisor at your school and pay the appropriate fees.  The course has 70 contact hours and is comparable to a 4 credit university course.  Just have you advisor contact Dr. Self-Sullivan (cselfsullivan@georgiasouthern.edu) to discuss the requirements for credit. Remember, if you are interested in getting independent study credit for this course at your school, you must make arrangements IN ADVANCE with BOTH your advising faculty and the course instructor.  Credit hour fees must be paid directly to your school and you must fulfill any Study Abroad requirements at your school. For more information start here: http://www.sirenian.org/CourseSyllabus2009.html

CREDIT:  The course is hosted by the Hugh Parkey Foundation for Marine Awareness & Education and Spanish Bay Conservation & Research Center as a non-credit course.  The lecture and field lab hours are equivalent of a 4-credit hour academic course; instructor will work with your academic advisor if credit is desired. 

LOCATION:  Hugh Parkey’s Belize Adventure Lodge http://www.belizeadventurelodge.com; extra-curricular activities include snorkeling/diving on the reef, and exploring an ancient Maya City.

YOUR SHARE OF COSTS:  $2595 includes course materials, housing, meals, field trips, ground & water transfers fees – DOES NOT include airfare, insurance, tips, or credit hours; students are required to have in place or purchase travel insurance equivalent to DAN Insurance, which costs $99/year. 

DEADLINES: Registration & non-refundable deposit of $500 due April 1st; balance due May 1st Register by March 1st and SAVE $100!

Instructor Links: Caryn Self-Sullivan, Ph.D. and Bruce A. Schulte, Ph.D.

ANNOUNCEMENT SUBMITTED BY:

Caryn Self Sullivan, Ph.D.

Department of Biology

202 Georgia Avenue, P. O. Box 8042

Georgia Southern University

Statesboro, GA 30460-8042

Email:  cselfsullivan@georgiasouthern.edu

Office:  Biology 2202B

Phone:  912-478-7164

Fax: 912.478.0845

http://www.bio.georgiasouthern.edu

 

Sirenian International, Inc.

200 Stonewall Drive, Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Email: caryns@sirenian.org

Mobile: +1.540.287.8207

Personal Fax: +1.540.242.9196

http://www.sirenian.org

The mission of Sirenian International is to promote the long-term conservation of manatee and dugong populations and our shared aquatic habitats around the world through research, educational outreach, and capacity building. Please remember us when budgeting for your charitable donations. Adopt a Mermaid Ambassador or Donate online at http://www.sirenian.org.

Summer Courses at the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre

Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre combines field, lecture and laboratory work into unforgettable learning experiences for senior undergraduates, graduate students and other qualified applicants. Courses investigate diverse topics related to coastal and marine ecosystems and offer unique opportunities for engaging hands-on learning with instructors passionate about teaching. Each six-week summer course carries credit equivalent to a full-year university course, while three-week courses carry credit equivalent to one half-year university course. Students participate in active learning, and contribute to new knowledge through independent or group research projects.  For more information see: www.bms.bc.ca/university

Students from non-member institutions can receive transfer credit through the University of Victoria.

BMSC is a field station on the remote West Coast of Vancouver Island, Canada. Owned and operated by five Western Canadian universities (SFU, UVic, UBC, U of A, U of C), it has offered summer and fall immersion field courses since 1972.

Courses Offered this Summer:

-Marine Invertebrate Zoology

-Amphibian Biology  

-Introduction to Marine Scientific Filmmaking

-Life History Strategies of Marine Organisms           

-Scientific Diving      

-Biology of Marine Fish            

-Biodiversity of Seaweeds

-Marine Behavioural Ecology

-Coastal Community Ecology

-Evolution & Development of Marine Organisms

-Biology of Marine Birds

-Coastal Biodiversity & Conservation        

-Neuroethology of Marine Invertebrates     

-Models in Ecology  

-Conservation Genetics

-Directed Studies

 

JOIN US IN AFRICA - Conservation and Biodiversity in South African Parks and Nature Reserves

Study in Africa in 2009

Conservation and Biodiversity in South African Parks and Nature Reserves

May 16 to June 11, 2009

Have you always wanted to go to Africa?  To see, study, and explore the rich diversity of wildlife and natural resources?  Here’s an amazing opportunity to do just that! 

In Summer 2009, the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, through the Office of Study Abroad, at Michigan State University will be making it’s 5th, 4-week excursion to South Africa, to explore the Conservation and Biodiversity of their Parks and Nature Reserves.  We’ll tour various parks and nature reserves throughout South Africa, including Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Kruger National Park, Manyeleti Nature Reserve, Pilanesberg Game Reserve, Kalahari Transfrontier Park, De Hoop Nature Reserve, Agulhas National Park, Boulders African Penguin colony, Cape of Good Hope, Table Mountain National Park and Robben Island.

At a time when natural resource managers are asked to consider global contexts of biodiversity and ecosystem approaches to management, this course will expose students to various South African ecosystems and will broaden students’ scope of management by taking into account the impacts that land-based activities and international policies have on the natural communities in these ecosystems. The role of game reserves, nature reserves, and national parks as management tools will be investigated and students will be introduced to social issues that are encountered when protection of biodiversity restrictions are imposed on a society.  We will also address the role of hunting as a management tool of big game species on private game reserves and the impact of hunting on the surrounding communities.

Students will familiarize themselves with the flora and fauna of the different ecosystems visited; will interact with government officials and land managers; and will participate in hands-on learning, including bushwalks, habitat sampling, population surveys and other field experiments.

This program is perfectly suited for undergraduate students studying ecology, natural resources, and wildlife biology, ecology and/or management. We can take a maximum of 12 students.  Preference is for Wildlife/Natural Resource type students with an ecology background, but students from other biological majors that are passionate and excited about exploring South African wildlife and natural resources are also encouraged to apply.

Each student participating in these programs enrolls in 6 credits of FW 480 - International Studies in Fisheries and Wildlife at MSU.  While this is a Michigan State University program, students from non-MSU colleges and universities are welcome and encouraged to apply.  Over the past 4 summers, students from Ball State University, Central Michigan University, Paul Smith’s College, University of Idaho, University of Findley, University of Tennessee, and the University of Vermont have participated in this program. Non-MSU students enroll as Lifelong Education students and tuition rates are significantly less than paying out-of-state tuition.  All students also must pay a program fee (approximately $3,800), which covers almost everything (transportation, lodging, field trips, park fees, and most meals) while you’re in country, and their airline ticket (approximately $1,750). 

While it sounds like a lot of money, for everything you get to see and do for 4 weeks in Africa, it’s truly a bargain.

It’s truly a life altering experience.  Join Us!!

See the following OSA website for some additional information -http://studyabroad.msu.edu/programs/safricacon.html 

E-Mail me (schne181@msu.edu) if you’d be interested in seeing a tentative itinerary and PDF of our information meeting presentation.

Don’t wait to apply. (http://www.studyabroad.msu.edu/applications/index.html)

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions or want more details. 

Jim Schneider (schne181@msu.edu)

Kellogg Biological Station Fall Study Away

Kellogg Biological Station (KBS) invites undergraduates to apply to our 2009 “ROKS” Fall Study Away program. (Residential Opportunities at Kellogg Station) http://www.kbs.msu.edu/roks/

Each fall, 12 students join the KBS research community to Learn and Intern on the shores of beautiful Gull Lake. 

ROKS combines undergraduate course work in natural and social science, mentored internships, seminars and discussions with leading scientists, and the opportunity to live at KBS--MSU’s largest off-campus research and education facility.

Freshmen, sophomores, and juniors are eligible to apply. All participants receive a $2000 scholarship to help with housing costs, and additional scholarship funds are available in cases of strong financial need.

For more information and to apply:

http://www.kbs.msu.edu/roks/

There are only SIX spots left for Fall 2009!

Applying early is strongly encouraged.

Gwen Pearson, PhD

Assistant Director for Education and Outreach

Kellogg Biological Station

http://www.kbs.msu.edu

pearso78@kbs.msu.edu

 

Math/Field Ecology for Graduates/Undergraduates at Kellogg Biological Station

**Scholarship Support Available**

Mathematics and Field Ecology Summer Program, 15 June - 31 July, for Undergraduate and Graduate Students at Kellogg Biological Station, Michigan State University

http://www.kbs.msu.edu/ELME

Kellogg Biological Station (KBS) will once again host the summer program known as ELME, Enhancing Linkages between Mathematics and Ecology.  ELME is a course-work based research experience designed for students with an interest in applying mathematics to questions in ecology and evolution.  The program is designed for students both with and without formal training in mathematics.  Participants in the full program take 3 one-week math courses on topics that are relevant to ecology/evolution and then apply these tools in a four-week field ecology/evolution course.  Students can enroll in a subset of the ELME courses if that better fits their needs and schedules.

Mathematics 1-week courses:

               Introduction to Theoretical Population Biology - MTH 490.431

               Robin E. Snyder, Case Western Reserve University

               June 15 - June 19

               Game Theory and Adaptive Dynamcis- MTH 490.432

               Christopher Klausmeier, Kellogg Biological Station, MSU

               June 22 - June 26

               Maximum Likelihood Analysis in Ecology - MTH 490.433

               Don Schoolmaster, Kellogg Biological Station, MSU

               June 29 - July 3

Ecology 4-week course:

               Field Ecology and Evolution - ZOL/PLB 440

               Gary Mittelbach and Jen Lau, Kellogg Biological Station, MSU

               July 6 – July 31

Undergraduate Fellowships (generous stipend, plus housing, travel, and tuition) are available for students enrolling in the full ELME program.  Graduate scholarships are available for tuition and housing.  More information about KBS and the ELME program is available at http://www.kbs.msu.edu/ELME.  The application deadline for enrollment and scholarships is March 2, 2009.

Summer marine biology courses for undergraduates at the Oregon Institute of Marine Biology

SUMMER 2009 COURSES AT THE OREGON INSTITUTE OF MARINE BIOLOGY

Courses are designed for upper division undergraduates.

Please pass this information along to any undergraduates who might be interested or the undergraduate biology advisor in your department.

FOR FURTHER DETAILS – www.uoregon.edu/~oimb

8 WEEK COURSES (June 22 - August 14, 2009)

INVERTEBRATE ZOOLOGY  Instructor: Cynthia Trowbridge

MARINE ANIMAL ADAPTATIONS Instructor: Patrick Baker

BIOLOGY OF FISHES Instructor: Daryl Parkyn

MARINE BIRDS AND MAMMALS Instructor: Jan Hodder and Doug Warrick

2 WEEK COURSES

COASTAL BIOLOGY July 6-9 and 13-16 Instructors: Stewart Schulz

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN August 17 – 28 Instructor: Brian Bingham

WEEKEND WORKSHOPS

BIOLOGICAL ILLUSTRATION June 20-21 and 27-28 Instructor: Lee Braithwaite

BIOLOGICAL INVASIONS July 11- 12 and 18 – 19 Instructor: James Carlton

SYMBIOSIS IN THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT July 25 – 26 and August 1 – 2

Instructor: Chuck Wimpee

 

Fellowships and dormitory housing are available.

ESA Outstanding Student Research Awards Application

Attention All ESA Students and Faculty,

The ESA Student Section is pleased to sponsor the Second Annual Outstanding Student Research in Ecology Awards program. We will award two students, cash prizes for excellence in research via an outstanding publication. There are awards for both UNDERGRADUATE and GRADUATE research so don’t miss out!

*** THE DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS IS SUNDAY MAY 31th. ***

ELIGIBILITY AND NOMINATION: At the time of the nomination deadline (SUNDAY MAY 31th), the paper must be published in a peer reviewed journal (2007-2009) and the nominee must be an undergraduate student, a graduate student, or have received a Ph.D. within the past two years. The nominee must be first author of the paper and be a member in good standing of ESA’s Student Section at the time of nomination. Awards will be granted only to Student Section members. To become a student section member, check the appropriate box on your ESA membership form when you renew your ESA membership (http://eservices.esa.org) or email membership@esa.org. Self-nominations and nominations by colleagues are welcomed.

SELECTION CRITERIA: Applications will be reviewed by an Awards Committee appointed by the Officers of the Student Section. Papers will be judged based upon the paper’s contribution to the field, including originality, study design and impact.

Nomination packets should include:

1. A copy of the paper

2. A brief letter describing the impact of the paper on the field and standing the date of completion of the degree if the nominee is no longer a student. ***Make sure to indicate whether the research was completed during undergraduate or graduate tenure***

3. A letter of support from the major professor that also confirms the nominee’s eligibility for the award

4. A CV from the nominee

SUBMITTING APPLICATIONS: Nomination packets should be sent (by May 31th) electronically as pdfs to the Student Section’s Secretary, Johanna Delgado-Acevedo, at (johannadelgado@yahoo.com) with the phrase “Outstanding Student Awards” in the subject line.

If you have questions, email Matthew Whiteside (mwhitesi@uci.edu) or Rob Salguero-Gomez (salguero@sas.upenn.edu)

We look forward to your applications,

The ESA Student Section

Chair: Matthew Whiteside

Vice Chair: Rob Salguero-Gomez

Secretary: Johanna Delgado-Acevedo

 

Matthew D. Whiteside

PhD Candidate

Chair ESA Student Section

Ecology and Evolution

321 Steinhaus Hall

University of California

Irvine,CA 92697-2525 USA

telephone: (949) 824-9423

fax: (949) 824-2181

http://webfiles.nacs.uci.edu/treseder/public/People/People.htm

 

ESA SEEDS 2009 Field Trip Opportunity for Undergraduate

The Ecological Society of America’s SEEDS (Strategies for Ecology Education, Diversity, and Sustainability) program is pleased to announce its Spring 2009 Field Trip.  Student Field Trips meet the SEEDS mission by providing exciting opportunities for underrepresented undergraduate students to explore their interest in ecology. Field trips allow students to spend four to seven days at an ecologically significant site, such as a field station, research laboratory, or national park, learning about the science of ecology, exploring career options, and seeing the practical applications of ecology.

The 2009 SEEDS Spring Field Trip will take place from June 7-13 at the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory (RMBL) in Crested Butte, Colorado. This field trip provides a unique opportunity for students to learn from, and perhaps contribute to, scientific research programs taking place at the research station.

For more information about SEEDS field trips and to apply for the Spring 2009 field trip, please visit us online at http://www.esa.org/seeds/fieldtrips/.  All applications for this field trip must be received by midnight on February 23, 2009. 

Please contact Erin Vinson at erin@esa.org or 202-833-8773 with any questions.

***Master’s Programs***

Graduate Research Assistantship in Nutrient and Herbivore Manipulation Study (Colorado State University)

We seek a highly motivated student with excellent academic credentials and previous research experience to lead a cross-site nutrient and herbivore manipulation study in northern Colorado and southern Wyoming.  These sites are two of over 50 sites that comprise the Nutrient Network, a global study of the controls on productivity and diversity in grasslands.  The study can be expanded to include interactions between nutrients, herbivores and other factors, such as global changes.  The successful candidate will play an important role in determining the nature of the full study.  The successful candidate will enroll in the Graduate Degree Program in Ecology at Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colorado.  We prefer a student who has a masters

degree and wishes to pursue a doctorate.  However, qualified candidates without masters degrees will be considered.  The project advisers are Julia Klein, Cynthia Brown and Dana Blumenthal.  For more information and to apply, contact Julia Klein after December 30, 2008 by email at Julia.Klein@ColoState.edu.  Review of applications will begin immediately.

Cynthia S. Brown

Assistant Professor

Bioagricultural Sciences and Pest Management

Colorado State University

1177 Campus Delivery

Fort Collins, Colorado 80523-1177

Phone:  (970)491-1949

FAX: (970)491-3862

Email: Cynthia.S.Brown@ColoState.edu

Graduate Study Opportunity in Stream Ecosystem Management (University of Maryland)

The Appalachian Lab, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES) has an opening for one graduate student (MSc or PhD in exceptional cases) to work on a project at the interface of geomorphology, ecology, and public policy. We would like to admit a student who is interested in studying the landscape effects of urbanization on stream ecosystems, including effective protection and management strategies. Student support has been secured through a fellowship from Maryland Sea Grant (http://www.mdsg.umd.edu/programs/research/fellows/). 

In the State of Maryland, stream restoration and protection is gaining considerable attention as practices for reducing nutrient and sediment discharge into the Chesapeake Bay. In recent work, researchers at UMCES have developed remote sensing and GIS tools for measuring the impact of urbanization on stream burial extent. However, tools are needed to aid management of remaining stream resources and to help in determining the most effective policies regulating future urbanization. For this task, AL-UMCES has partnered with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

To apply to join this effort, please submit a resume and research statement to Dr. Andrew Elmore (aelmore@al.umces.edu). The student would be enrolled through the Marine Estuarine and Environmental Science (MEES) graduate program at the University of Maryland. Applications are due immediately and will be filled when an acceptable candidate has been identified to start either summer or fall semester 2009.

This ad is also posted at http://www.al.umces.edu/about/employment.htm

Graduate Research Assistantship in Forestry (Michigan State University)

A graduate research assistant position at either the MS or Ph.D. level is available starting May 2009 with Dr. Sophan Chhin (www.msu.edu/~chhin) in the Department of Forestry (www.for.msu.edu) at Michigan State University (MSU). Research will involve examining the effect of silvicultural management practices (e.g., thinning) on interannual variation in physical (e.g., ring width, density) and chemical (e.g., cellulose and lignin content) wood properties.  The project will incorporate many methodological techniques from the discipline of tree ring research (dendrochronology).  The successful applicant is also expected to explore possible relationships between wood properties and past climate which may serve as the basis for future projections of wood parameters under different climate change scenarios.  This research will have implications for optimizing silvicultural practices for improved wood quality, and contribute to the sustainable production of bioenergy and biofuels in the context of climate change.  MSU is a land grant institution and there are many opportunities to conduct research at the network of MSU experiment stations throughout Michigan.

Applicants interested in a MS level position should preferably have a BS in forestry, biology, ecology, environmental sciences, or a similarly related natural resource field.  Applicants interested in a Ph.D. level position should preferably have a MS as well as some publishing experience.  Experience conducting tree ring analyses is desirable.

The position includes a tuition waiver and health benefits, and a competitive stipend (MS:  ~$19,000/year; Ph.D.: ~$21,000/year) for 3 years that is renewable annually based on satisfactory performance.  Please submit application package that includes a cover letter, curriculum vitae, transcripts, GRE scores, and contact information of three references to

(electronic applications are preferred):

Dr. Sophan Chhin

Assistant Professor, Silviculture and Forest Ecosystem Productivity

Department of Forestry

Michigan State University

126 Natural Resources Building

East Lansing, MI  48824-1222

Tel: (517) 353-7251

Fax: (517) 432-1143

E-mail: chhin@msu.edu

 

Applications will be considered immediately and continue until the position is filled.  To ensure full consideration please submit material by February 20, 2009.  MSU is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.

Master’s in Science Internship in Marine Ecology, Indonesia

Type of position: Internship MSc student

Institution: Radboud University Nijmegen & NIOO-CEME Yrseke (The Netherlands) and LIPI Oceanography, Jakarta (Indonesia).

Location Fieldwork: East-Kalimantan, Indonesia (3-5 months)

Lab-work: Nijmegen, The Netherlands (3-4 months)

Start date: Summer / Winter 2009,

Salary: non; student has to apply for funding.(http://www.beursopener.nl)

 

The PhD. project is about the interactive feedbacks between seagrass, eutrophication, and (green) turtle grazing. The project focuses on specific mechanisms that drive these processes, including the influence of shading, water-soil chemistry and the associated algal shifts. Next summer we’ve planned a second period of fieldwork. We are now looking for students who want to take part in this project for their master’s degree.

Students will have opportunity to creatively pursue their own hypothesis-driven research projects within the project. The candidates seeking the position should have a good (marine) ecology background. Details about the project, location and experiences (incl. pictures) of last fieldtrip: http://penyu.nl. To further inquire about the position and for project details e-mail Marjolijn Christianen (m.christianen@science.ru.nl).

MS Graduate Research Assistantship in Invasive Plant Ecology and Biofuels (Michigan Technological University)

A graduate research assistantship at the M.Sc. level is available in the Invasive Plant Ecology Laboratory of Dr. Catherine Tarasoff at the School of Forest Resources and Environmental Science, Michigan Technological University. The successful applicant will lead a project studying the legacy effect of invasive plant competition on biomass production and subsequent economic returns of the biofuel crop switchgrass. Field work will be conducted locally and at a partner research facility approximately 3 hrs drive. As the project is experiment-based, extensive field work is expected. However, it is also expected that the student will research and develop complimentary greenhouse experiments.

A background in forestry, botany, community ecology, weed science, or agronomy is desirable; as well as, an interest in the application of statistical methods and applied ecology. Proficiency in spoken and written English is a necessity.

Michigan Tech is one of the Nation’s premier Forestry and Environmental Science Universities. The School of Forest Resources and Environmental Science has been ranked *fourth in the nation* <http://www.academicanalytics.com/TopSchools/TopPrograms.aspx#9> for scholarly productivity among forestry schools, and *first in North America*

<http://saf.publisher.ingentaconnect.com/content/saf/jof/2006/00000104/00000005/art00005> based on citations per faculty member.

Michigan Tech is located in the snowbelt (>200” annual snowfall) of Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula on the south shore of Lake Superior. Michigan Tech is in the small town of Houghton, which was rated as one of the top 10 U.S. adrenaline outposts by National Geographic Adventure Magazine <http://www.nationalgeographic.com/adventure/0107/trips_5.html> and boasts excellent skiing, hiking, kayaking and mountain biking.

Consideration of applications begins immediately and will continue until the position is filled. The ideal start date is July 1, 2009 but other dates will be considered.

Interested persons should send a cover letter, GRE scores, one-page statement of professional interests, curriculum vitae including names and contact information for three references, and any other relevant materials to Dr. Tarasoff by email at ctarasof@mtu.edu.

Catherine Tarasoff – Invasive Plant Ecologist

School of Forest Resources and Environmental Sciences

1400 Townsend Drive

Michigan Technological University

Houghton, MI 49931

906-487-2396

ctarasof@mtu.edu

MS Assistantship in Limnology/Aquatic Ecology (Auburn University, Alabama)

** PLEASE DISTRIBUTE WIDELY **

One M.S. research assistantship is available in Alan Wilson’s lab (http://www.wilsonlab.com ) at Auburn University (AU) to study basic and applied limnology/aquatic ecology.  Current lab research projects revolve around understanding the ecological and genetic mechanisms mediating harmful cyanobacterial blooms and include an NSF-funded project focused on elucidating the ecosystem-level consequences of food-web evolution.  Students in my lab are welcome to participate on existing projects but are strongly encouraged to develop their own thesis projects using a suite of approaches available at AU including field limnocorral and whole-pond experiments, large-scale lake surveys, and laboratory-based mechanistic studies.  Travel opportunities to scientific conferences and field sites throughout the Southeast and Midwest are made available to all of my students.

The ideal candidate will be hard-working, enjoy teamwork, and have a solid foundation in aquatic

ecology, molecular biology, microbiology, or related fields.  Also, since outreach is an important component of my lab’s activities, prospective students motivated to educate others about the importance of protecting our natural resources are especially encouraged to apply.  Starting dates are flexible, but preference will be given to students available May to August 2009.  Stipends are competitive and accompanied by full tuition waivers and health insurance.

Interested students are encouraged to email (1) a concise letter of interest including the contact

information for three references (two professional and one personal), (2) copies of transcripts and GRE scores, and (3) a brief resume to Alan Wilson at wilson@auburn.edu by 1 March 2009 for full consideration.

Questions?  Contact…

Dr. Alan E. Wilson – Assistant Professor

Fisheries and Allied Aquacultures – Auburn University

203 Swingle Hall, Auburn, Alabama  36849

<mailto:wilson@auburn.edu>wilson@auburn.edu,

334.844.9321, http://www.wilsonlab.com

 

 

NSF Fellowships for Research on Vegetation-Climate Interactions in the Amazon

National Science Foundation (NSF) graduate fellowships ($30,000 per year, for up to two years) are available starting in the 2009-2010 academic year for Amazon-PIRE (Partnership for International Research and Education) for ecology and earth-system science students to study vegetation-climate interactions in the Amazon basin (Brazil).

Amazon-PIRE fellows must be admitted to a participating Ph.D. program at the University of Arizona or Harvard University. Fellowships support United States citizens or permanent residents, and include an annual stipend, tuition, health insurance, and travel to Brazilian field sites and

collaborating institutions.

Amazon-PIRE is a U.S.-Brazilian partnership addressing the question, “What is the future of Amazon forests under climate change?” and promoting international education, collaboration, and exchange.  Research focii include long term observations (via eddy flux measurements, forest plot surveys, physiological measurements, remote sensing, and aircraft sampling), experimental manipulations (in the Tropical Forest Biome of Biosphere 2), and modeling.  

Amazon-PIRE is committed to diversity in education, and encourages the application of women and underrepresented minorities. 

    * Application deadline for funding of graduate fellowships - February 2, 2009  

 

See the program website (http://www.amazonpire.org/opportunities.php)for key application deadlines for relevant programs and more information, and/or email: amazonpire@arizona.edu.

Graduate Study in Aquatic and Riparian Systems (University of South Dakota)

The Department of Biology at the University of South Dakota (http://www.usd.edu/biol/biology.cfm) is accepting applications from potential M.S. or Ph.D. students for Fall 2009.  Several faculty members conduct research in areas of ecology and conservation biology, with a particular emphasis on aquatic and riparian systems and their biota:

Dr. Daniel Soluk (Daniel.Soluk@usd.edu)

Dr. Soluk’s research involves population, community, and behavioral ecology of aquatic organisms.  He is currently conducting research on the conservation of endangered aquatic organisms (dragonflies) and ecosystems (Large Floodplain Rivers).  For more information or to contact Dr. Soluk directly see: http://www.usd.edu/biol/faculty/Dan%20Soluk_files/DanSoluk.htm

Dr. Jacob Kerby (Jacob.Kerby@usd.edu)

Dr. Kerby’s research focuses on the ecological impacts of both contaminants and disease on amphibians.  Recently, he received funding to determine the prevalence of a chytrid fungus (Batrachochytrium dendrobatitis) in amphibians found throughout the Midwest.  In addition, he is interested in how pesticides impact amphibians and in particular might alter their susceptibility to disease.  For more information or to contact him directly, see his website: www.usd.edu/~Jacob.Kerby

Dr. Mark Dixon (Mark.Dixon@usd.edu)

Dr. Dixon is a landscape ecologist who studies the drivers of vegetation and land cover change in riparian landscapes, with a particular focus on floodplain forests and their biota.  Current interests/projects include:

§  Effects of flow regulation on landscape dynamics, vegetation, and forest songbirds along the Missouri River

§  Mapping and classification of riparian plant communities along the Big Sioux River

§  Ecosystem services and responses to climate change within riparian areas in the desert Southwest

For more information, contact Dr. Dixon or see: http://www.usd.edu/biol/faculty/Mark%20Dixon/mark_d.htm

Dr. David Swanson (David.Swanson@usd.edu)

Dr. Swanson’s research interests are broadly based in the areas of ecological physiology, the evolution of physiological adaptation in animals (particularly vertebrates), and ornithology. With specific research foci including adaptation to cold in birds, freezing tolerance and overwintering strategies in amphibians, and woodland and wetland habitat use by migrating and breeding birds in the northern prairie region. Research includes ecological (field oriented), organismal, biochemical and molecular approaches.  For more information, contact Dr. Swanson or see: http://www.usd.edu/biol/faculty/swanson/index.html

All of these faculty members are accepting students for Fall 2009.  Please contact them individually if interested.  For more information on the graduate program, see http://usd.edu/biol/graduateprogram.cfm.  The deadline for applying for fall admission is March 1, 2009.

Mark D. Dixon

Assistant Professor

Department of Biology

University of South Dakota

Vermillion, SD 57069

Phone: (605) 677-6567

Fax: (605) 677-6557

Email: Mark.Dixon@usd.edu

 

Graduate Research Assistantship in Soil Carbon Dynamics (Colorado State University)

A Graduate Research Assistantship will be available at the Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory, Colorado State University. Funding is available for an MS/PhD research assistantship (beginning summer or fall 2009) to study soil carbon dynamics and ecosystem ecology. The project investigates soil carbon stabilization mechanisms impact the sensitivity of soil carbon turnover to temperature. The student will participate in collection and analysis of soil samples from several grassland and cultivated sites throughout North America, isolating and quantifying various pools of soil carbon, investigating biological control and response, and data interpretation, modeling, and reporting. In addition to a solid background in biology, chemistry, ecology, math, and soil science, experience with laboratory soil analyses, in particular soil fractionation procedures and isotopic analysis, is desirable. For more information go to http://www.nrel.colostate.edu/projects/agecosys/swarmII_abstract.pdf and read more about ‘Reconciling predictions of kinetic theory with observations of decomposition responses to temperature: Biological, biochemical, and edaphic constraints.’

Please Contact: Dr. Richard Conant (conant@nrel.colostate.edu; ph. 970-491-1919) or Dr. Eldor A. Paul (eldor@nrel.colostate.edu; ph. 970-491-1987) at the Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1499, U.S.A.

Graduate Fellowships in Marine Ecosystem Sustainability in the Arctic and Subarctic (University of Alaska-Fairbanks)

Graduate Program in Marine Ecosystem Sustainability in the Arctic and Subarctic (MESAS)

University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks and Juneau, Alaska

Application Deadline: Feburary 15, 2009

For further information, please go to: http://www.uaf.edu/mesas

Or contact the MESAS Program at: Email: mesas@uaf.edu Phone: 907-796-5451

The University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) is seeking motivated PhD candidates for our Marine Ecosystem Sustainability in the Arctic and Subarctic (MESAS) program.  This interdisciplinary NSF-funded IGERT (http://www.igert.org) program incorporates social and natural sciences to explore ecosystem approaches to managing and studying living marine resources.

The program will train future leaders who will be creative agents for change to develop society’s capacity to cope with, manage, and mitigate threats to our nation’s oceans, including climate change, fishing pressure, habitat loss, and pollution.   Graduates will be well-prepared to contribute to both the understanding and management of marine ecosystems to ensure ecosystem-based strategies for the sustainable use of living marine resources in the context of competing local, national, and international interests.

MESAS provides interdisciplinary coursework that combines elements from anthropology, ecology, economics, fisheries science, management, marine policy, and oceanography.  MESAS offers faculty mentorship, opportunities to mentor undergraduate students,  interaction with the terrestrial sustainability IGERT at UAF, as well as a summer internship program in areas outside each student’s major discipline. Research programs at the University of Alaska and in state and federal agencies offer interdisciplinary research opportunities.

MESAS provides training to graduate students at the Masters and PhD levels at the University of Alaska, in Fairbanks and Juneau, Alaska. Students of the program can pursue graduate degrees in Anthropology, Fisheries, Marine Biology, Natural Resources Management, Oceanography, Resource Economics, or Interdisciplinary Studies. NSF-funded fellowships are available to PhD candidates entering the program who are US citizens or permanent residents. Additional funding may be available to both PhD and MS students through participating departments. Alaska Natives and other under-represented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.

Graduate Research Assistantship in Decomposition in Aridlands (University of Kentucky)

Graduate Research Assistantship Available at the University of Kentucky: A graduate research assistantship (MS or PhD level) is available in the Department of Plant & Soil Sciences at the University of Kentucky (Lexington, KY).  This position is affiliated with the grassland ecosystem ecology lab of Dr. Rebecca McCulley (see http://rebecca.mcculley.googlepages.com/) and is being supported by an NSF funded project entitled, ‘COLLABORATIVE RESEARCH:  Decomposition in drylands:  Soil erosion and UV interactions.’  As suggested by the title, the project is collaborative in nature (with Drs. Steve Archer, Dave Breshears, Heather Throop, and Paul Barnes), and the field sites for this work are in the desert grasslands of New Mexico and Arizona (see http://www.snr.arizona.edu/project/decomposition for more information).  The assistantship in Kentucky will support the microbial-side of the project; therefore, applicants for this position should have demonstrated skills with traditional and/or modern microbial techniques.  Candidates with an MS degree in soil science, ecology, microbiology, or related fields and proven interest, experience, and/or knowledge of dryland ecosystems are encouraged to apply.   The successful candidate will receive a graduate student stipend, health insurance, and tuition remission for at least 3 years.  For more information, please contact:

Dr. Rebecca McCulley

N-222D Ag Sci North

Dept. of Plant & Soil Science

University of Kentucky

Lexington, KY   40546-0091

Phone: (859) 257-6388

Fax: (859) 323-1952

Email: rebecca.mcculley@uky.edu

 

Graduate Research Assistantship in Nitrogen in Grazing Systems (University of Kentucky)

MS/PhD Graduate Research Assistantship: Nitrogen Cycling in Managed Grasslands

Location: University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY

Review/Close Date: Tentative start date – June 2009

Description:

An MS or PhD level graduate research assistantship is available in the grassland ecosystem ecology lab of Dr. Rebecca McCulley (see http://rebecca.mcculley.googlepages.com/) at the University of Kentucky to explore the effects of plant community composition and fungal endophyte symbiosis on nitrogen cycling, retention, and loss in cattle grazed, transition zone, managed grasslands.  Familiarity with the techniques used to measure trace gas fluxes and nitrogen isotopes is preferred (though not required).  Interested applicants are encouraged to send a CV and cover letter to:

Dr. Rebecca McCulley

N-222D Ag Sci North

Dept. of Plant & Soil Science

University of Kentucky

Lexington, KY   40546-0091

Phone: (859) 257-6388

Fax: (859) 323-1952

Email: rebecca.mcculley@uky.edu

The successful candidate will receive a graduate student stipend, health insurance, and tuition remission for at least 2 years.  Start Date: June 1, 2009.

Graduate Research Assistantship in Ecological Economics (Northern Arizona University)

School of Forestry, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, Arizona

There is an opening for a two-year graduate research assistant position at School of Forestry, Northern Arizona University (Starting July 1, 2009) in the field of ecological economics. The selected candidate will have the opportunity to work closely with the Ecological Restoration Institute to estimate economic impacts of ecological restoration treatments and biomass utilization (job and income creations).

With the worsening condition of the U.S. economy, there is a greater need for information on how to create more employment opportunities in economically depressed rural areas. We will estimate potential economic impacts (output, job, and income creations) of ecological restoration treatments and biomass utilizations, including biomass energy development. This project will generate time-sensitive information that communities and land managers can use to attract public funding for enhancing their social and economic environment while promoting ecosystem health.

The successful applicants should work well with people and have good communication (written and oral) and organizational skills. Candidates should have background and interest in forestry, natural resource economics and policy, or other related disciplines.

Application procedures

Candidates should submit:

- A one-page letter (email is satisfactory) describing qualifications and experience

- An up-to-date curriculum vitae or resume

- Copies of undergraduate college transcripts

- Names, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses of three professional references to:

Dr. Yeon-Su Kim

School of Forestry

Box 15018

Northern Arizona University

Flagstaff, AZ 86011

Phone: (928) 523-6643

e-mail: Yeon-Su.Kim@nau.edu

Graduate school admissions applications are completed separately through NAU and the School of Forestry. See the NAU web site (http://www.for.nau.edu) for details.

Graduate Research Assistantships in Earth System Science and Policy (University of North Dakota)

Graduate Student Research Assistantships (Master of Environmental Management, Master of Science, PhD) available at the University of North Dakota, Department of Earth System Science and Policy.

The Department of Earth System Science and Policy at the University of North Dakota has openings for students seeking a Masters of Environmental Management (MEM), Master of Science (MS) or PhD. 

Students for MEM seeking to develop of a career in private industry, government or non-profit organizations and wanting a professional degree with an internship project.

Students for MS and PhD with interests in the following specific areas: Climate change science - students with an interest in and/or skills in climate and impact modeling with computer programming and scripting.

Climate change policy - students with an interest in integrating social and demographic data with spatial analysis techniques; experience using ArcView software is a plus.

Hydrology - students with an interest in hydrological modeling with remote sensing data and field work.

Oceanography - students with an interest in satellite oceanography, ocean optics, and interaction of ocean and climate system.

Remote sensing of land systems- students with an interest in remote sensing of land systems using microwave, multi-spectral, hyperspectral and thermal sensors.

Biomass energy - students with an interest in using remote sensing and GIS to quantify land suitability for biofuels and their chemical composition.

Measurement and modeling of land use change - students interested in change analysis and integration of remote sensing data with land use change models such as GEOMOD, SLEUTH and Artificial Neural Networks.

Quantitative analysis of spatial, temporal and spectral data - students with an interest in analysis, transformation and synthesis of spatial, spectral and temporal patterns in earth science data for improved modeling and decision making.

Global change impacts and ecosystem services - students interested in multi-criteria and multi-method approaches to analysis of global change impacts on land systems and assessment of ecosystem services.

Financial support may be available to qualifying applicants, which generally includes a graduate research assistantship and tuition waiver.  Funding for assistantships is mainly provided through a sizable grant from NASA, and students receiving an assistantship work on a wide variety of research and applications projects.

The Earth System Science and Policy (ESSP) program is organized around the field of environmental sustainability and offers three degrees: Master of Environmental Management, M.S., and Ph.D.  Sustainability science has emerged as an intellectually exciting, growing discipline that is a driving concept for major scientific and environmental policy efforts around the globe.  By bridging theory with practice, global and local perspectives, and scientific and social disciplines, sustainability science seeks to meet the needs of society while sustaining the life support systems of the planet.

The mission of the ESSP program is to provide an integrated and creative learning environment that fosters intellectual growth, critical thinking, and practical engagement in research and management of the Earth systems and resources.  The ESSP program is a thematic one, emphasizing practical experience, student-centered learning, integration of knowledge across traditional disciplinary boundaries, and active dialogue both in and outside the classroom.

The MEM degree program is a professional degree for those seeking careers as environmental policymakers.  Graduates of the MEM program will have a comprehensive knowledge of the principles of environmental and natural resource management, acquired through practical experience in an internship.

ESSP alumni with MEM degrees have accepted jobs with private industry, non-profit organizations, and government agencies.

The MS degree program is a research degree acting as a qualification for pursuit of a PhD. The Master of Science is designed to accommodate a large range of research interests all of which must be multi-disciplinary.

Graduates of the MS program will have completed a research thesis on any one of a wide range of topics in the areas of climate change science, land systems science, hydrology, remote sensing, environmental modeling and environmental policy. ESSP alumni with MS degrees have gone on to undertake PhD degree programs at leading universities including Yale and Miami, or have accepted jobs with private industry, non-profit organizations, and government agencies.

The PhD degree program is a research degree requiring completion of a recognized MS program either internally or at an approved North American institution.  With the exception of in house MS applicants, all PhD students must complete the core 20 credit coursework load for ESSP in the first two semesters.  PhD students then undertake a major research project requiring development of a grant proposal, and resulting in significant research outcomes and publications. The PhD in Earth System Science and Policy is intended to prepare innovative researchers and problem-solvers for the public and private sectors, as much as for academia.

The University of North Dakota is located in Grand Forks, ND (146 miles to Winnipeg, MB, 315 miles to Minneapolis, MN, and 80.9 miles to Fargo, ND). Some curious facts about Grand Forks include: 1) GF ranks 2nd least expensive city to own and maintain a car, 2) GF ranks as the 6th best small city in the U.S. for relocating a family, 3) GF is ranked 12th out of 117 cities for the most safe small cities in the country, 4) GF is in the top 10 list of cheapest cities for car insurance, 5) the population of GF is 53,230, 6) the city area of GF, including an international airport, is 20.36 square miles, 7) the cost of living in GF is 19.5% lower than the U.S. average, 8) the unemployment rate in GF is 2.5% (U.S. average is around 4.6%), 9) there are about 14 students per teacher in GF public schools, and 10) the median age of GF residents is 32.

For more information, see the following websites:  

The University of North Dakota: www.und.edu

The UND Graduate School: http://www.und.edu/dept/grad/

UND Earth System Science and Policy: http://essp.und.edu/

Grand Forks Visitors Bureau: http://www.visitgrandforks.com/main.php

For students who are interested in applying, see:

http://www.und.edu/dept/grad/.  Recommended deadline for Application is June 1st,  however, early applications will receive top priority for admission.

If you have questions, feel free to contact the Chair of ESSP.

Soizik Laguette, Ph.D.

Chair

Department of Earth System Science and Policy

University of North Dakota

Clifford Hall, Stop 9011

Grand Forks, ND 58202-9011

Phone: 701-777-2532

Fax: 701-777-2940

E-mail: laguette@aero.und.edu

 

Graduate Study in Fluvial Geomorphology/Stream Ecology (University of Oklahoma)

*Fluvial Geomorphology/Water Resources/Stream Ecology*

The Geography Department at the University of Oklahoma has an opening for one graduate student (Master’s or PhD) to work on a project at the interface of fluvial geomorphology, ecology, and public policy. We would like to admit a student who is interested in studying landscape effects on any of the following river resources: water availability, sediment transport, primary productivity, temperature, and water quality. Full funding is available through a teaching assistantship and potentially a research assistantship after the second year. Supplementary fellowships are also available to exceptional candidates.

The University of Oklahoma is located in Norman, OK, which sits at the boundary between the Central Great Plains and the Cross Timbers physiographic regions in central Oklahoma. Oklahoma is made up of 12 different ecoregions, providing for a diversity of research opportunities, as well as leisure activities. Norman is a traditional college town, and is just 15 miles south of Oklahoma City.

Please send a CV, statement of research interests, contact information for three references, and unofficial transcripts to jjulian@ou.edu <mailto:jjulian@ou.edu> by Feb 5.

Jason P. Julian

Assistant Professor

Department of Geography

University of Oklahoma

Email: jjulian@ou.edu <mailto:jjulian@ou.edu>

Website: http://ags.ou.edu/~jjulian/

Graduate Study in Invasive Species and Plant Soil Feedbacks (Oklahoma State University)

ECOLOGY, DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCE ECOLOGY & MANAGEMENT, OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY, STILLWATER, OK.

Two graduate student positions are available for individuals interested in studying positive vs. negative plant-soil feedbacks related to biogeochemistry, soil microbial ecology, plant establishment processes, or restoration of rangeland ecosystems. Research projects will focus on the predominant invasive species in the Southern and Central Great Plains (e.g. salt cedar, Old World Bluestems, sericea lespedeza, or tall fescue).

Tentative starting date: June 1, 2009.

In addition to stipend, benefits include tuition waiver (up to 6 hours per semester).

Interested applicants are encouraged to send a letter stating your interest in the program and a resume to either:

Dr. Gail Wilson

gail.wilson@okstate.edu

405-744-5539

Or

Dr. Karen Hickman

karen.hickman@okstate.edu

405-744-9579

To apply, see website: http://nrem.okstate.edu/graduatestudents.html

Graduate Assistantship in Aquatic Systems Management (Mississippi State University)

Assistantship Description:

The Department of Wildlife and Fisheries at Mississippi State University seeks highly qualified students for a masters graduate research assistantship in aquatic systems management. Potential research project topics could include aquatic biogeochemistry of primary aquatic systems, best management practices and nutrient flux of nutrients, management of nonpoint source contaminants in impaired aquatic systems, and the use of GIS to understand water quality issues. The qualified candidate will also be encouraged to pursue their own research interests in aquatic systems management in concordance with ongoing research if so desired. Qualified candidates would work in close collaboration with other aquatic faculty members, be introduced to important researchers in federal and state agencies and be willing to be involved in a young, exciting, cutting-edge aquatic research program.

Qualifications:

B.S. in Biology, Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Soil Science or related discipline. Demonstrated excellence in coursework, good written and oral communication and importantly have the ability to work as a team member is required. An enthusiastic and vibrant individual will have high standing in qualification criteria. Applying candidate’s pre-requisites include a cumulative GPA greater than 3.0 in undergraduate coursework, and that the general GRE has been taken.

Assistantship Stipend:

$15 000 annual stipend, plus full tuition and health insurance for 2 years. In addition there will support for travel to regional, national and potentially international scientific meetings and other professional development activities.

Start Date:

June 1st, 2009 or sooner

Location:                                

Mississippi State University is a state land-grant university located near the city of Starkville in rural northeastern Mississippi.  Temperatures are mild, cost of living is low, and outdoor recreational opportunities are plentiful.

Application requirements:

Please send all inquires or queries to Dr. Robert Kröger: rkroger@cfr.msstate.edu (662)325-4731

Please apply online on the Mississippi State University 

Graduate School website: http://www.grad.msstate.edu/

Graduate Study in Ecology and Evolution (Rutgers University)

The Ecology and Evolution Graduate Program at NJIT/Rutgers is currently recruiting graduate students for Fall 2009.  Our graduate program is offered jointly by the Departments of Biological Sciences at the New Jersey Institute of Technology and Rutgers University-Newark.

Adding to the strength of the Federated Department are its collaborative interactions with the other academic units at Rutgers-Newark and NJIT, including the Departments of Chemistry, Physics and Earth and Environmental Sciences and the Center for Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience at Rutgers, and the Departments of Mathematical Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, and Computer Sciences at NJIT. We are also affiliated with the Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Natural Resources at Rutgers-New Brunswick. Students in our graduate program can cross register for courses at all three campuses.

Faculty that are actively seeking students include:

Dr. Daniel Bunker

http://newarkbioweb.rutgers.edu/department/FacultyProfiles/bunker.html

Dr. Claus Holzapfel

http://newarkbioweb.rutgers.edu/department/FacultyProfiles/holzapfel.html

Dr. Gareth Russell

http://newarkbioweb.rutgers.edu/department/FacultyProfiles/russell.html

Dr. Karina Schäfer

http://newarkbioweb.rutgers.edu/department/FacultyProfiles/schaefer.html

Prospective students should contact directly the faculty members whose interests best match their own.

Additional information can be found here: http://newarkbioweb.rutgers.edu/department/Graduate.html

The deadline for application to the Ph.D. Program is February 15, 2009.

The deadline for application to the M.S. Program is July 15, 2009.

Masters Program (Humboldt State University)

Humboldt State University (HSU) is a comprehensive public university with world-class graduate programs in natural resource management, located on the North Coast of California, in a beautiful, remote setting.  The Mathematical Modeling option of the Environmental Systems Graduate Program at HSU has an active research program in various applications of mathematics and statistics to environmental problems.  Thematic research areas include the quantitative study of (1) biodiversity and conservation through population ecology, fisheries biology and forest fire modeling; (2) interactions between the environment and individuals or populations; and (3) physical and biological understanding of climate change and its consequences. For a detailed list of research activities please visit our website at http://www.humboldt.edu/~envsys/math/.  The program is distinguished by its low student-to-faculty ratio, high level of faculty mentoring and interdisciplinary curriculum.  We are looking for qualified applicants who are interested in broadening their mathematical skills and applying them to problems in the environmental and natural resources sciences.  Our graduate students typically hold a bachelors degree in pure or applied mathematics, but other applicants with a strong quantitative background will also be considered.  Applications are due March 15, 2009. For more information regarding applications please contact Dr. Bori Mazzag (borim@humboldt.edu).

 

***Full-Time Employment***

 

Urban Forestry Crew Chief (Washington, D.C.)

Casey Trees (Washington, D.C.) is looking for an Urban Forestry Crew Chief to support our Tree Planting and Stewardship programs and activities.  The ideal candidate is an enthusiastic, highly motivated individual who enjoys working outdoors, in small crew settings, and in larger community-based projects and events with diverse volunteers.  The candidate should possess a broad range of technical field skills, good interpersonal communication skills, and a genuine interest in the conservation mission of the organization to restore, enhance and protect the tree canopy of the Nation’s Capital.

Learn more at www.caseytrees.org

Or visit the job posting at:

http://caseytrees.org/about/jobs/index.php

 

Water Resource Technician

http://www.capitolregionwd.org/Employment%20Opportunities/WRT%20III%2009/WRT%2009%20Position%20Description.pdf

12/24/08

POSITION TITLE: Water Resource Technician

REPORTS TO: Administrator

STATUS: Full time, exempt (from F.L.S.A.)

PRIMARY OBJECTIVE:

Perform skilled to highly skilled duties providing technical assistance in water resource protection and planning as it relates to the implementation of District goals and objectives.

POSITION OBJECTIVE: This Position is responsible for providing technical assistance in water resource protection and planning. Special emphasis will be placed on assisting with the operation and maintenance of a watershed-wide stormwater monitoring program, assisting with the monitoring, maintenance and inspection of District Best Management Practices (BMPs), assisting with monitoring of permitted sites to ensure compliance with District rules and assisting with GIS and database management. The workload will consist of approximately 40% water monitoring, 30% BMP monitoring, maintenance and inspections, 25% permit site monitoring and 5% GIS/database work.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Assist with the implementation of the District’s Monitoring Program. This will include the installation, operation and maintenance of monitoring equipment necessary to implement District’s Monitoring Program. Monitoring will include stormwater discharges at key outlets to the Mississippi River, stormwater BMPs, wetland biological monitoring and qualitative lake monitoring. Collect data necessary in assessing the inputs to the River relative to the existing quality of the River. Accurately record and store all data collected from monitoring program. Frequent (Weekly) confined space entry will be required for this position.

2. Assist with monitoring, maintenance and inspection of the District stormwater BMPs. This work will include routine field inspections to assess the function and performance of stormwater quality BMPs. Perform regular maintenance of BMPs as necessary. Monitor and document the long term effectiveness of the District’s BMPs. Maintain collaborate partnerships with local units of government for BMP maintenance. Assist staff with updating procedures for proper BMP maintenance and operation. Conduct regular restoration maintenance: invasive plant control, weeding, mulching, fence repair, and watering, other duties as assigned.

3. Primary work with the Permit Program will be assisting with the monitoring of permitted sites to ensure compliance with District rules. Other Permit Program duties may include assisting with the review of permit applications, site plans, and other materials; perform investigations and research needed to issue permits. Help maintain complete records of permit applications.

4. Create maps using ArcGIS 9.3 and assist with the District GIS Program.

5. Use word processing, spreadsheet, and database management software (such as Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, etc.) to produce correspondence, reports, forms, and technical information.6. Compose letters, memoranda, reports, and other written communications. Assist staff with surveys and collect/research data for special projects.

7. Keep staff informed of meetings, events, and deadlines by disseminating written and verbal information in a timely manner.

8 Attend and participate in staff meetings to keep abreast of staff activities and to share information with them so that work efforts can be coordinated when necessary.

9. Perform other duties as needed or required.

(The examples given above are intended only as illustrations of various types of work performed and are not necessarily all-inclusive. This position description is subject to change as the needs of the employer and requirements of the position change.)

SALARY

$24,960-$44,720, depending on qualifications and experience, plus benefits.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor of Science degree, or equivalent in the field of Limnology, Water Resources, Earth Science, Water Resource management, Natural Resources or related field. Experience with stream hydrology and water quality monitoring and chemistry are essential. Experience with construction sites, erosion and sediment control practices, development site plan reviews, stormwater management and Best Management Practices. One to two years professional experience is preferred. Good communication and computer skills are required. Received training on confined space entry procedures or able to obtain training in first six months of employment.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS and ABILITIES

1. Desired Qualifications

Experience with conducting in-stream flow measurements and developing stage discharge relationship. Experience with Global Water, ISCO and HoBo automated data loggers and automated water quality samplers. Experience with storing, summarizing and analyzing data, specifically water quantity and water quality data. Also experience in preparing technical reports and papers such as water monitoring reports and/or summaries of flow data. Knowledge of native and exotic plant identification and native plant communities. Knowledge and/or experience in natural area restoration and maintenance and invasive plant control.

2. Minimum Software Experience

Proficiency with a personal computer (PC), Pocket PC and Microsoft software packages for word processing, spreadsheet, database management and computer generated graphics. Specifically, but not limited to, Microsoft Office, Excel, Word, Access, PowerPoint. Ability to effectively use email and internet applications and other common software applications.

3. Desired Software Experience

Experience using work specific software including: Flowlink 5, Global Water, Boxcar, ArcGIS

9.3, Pendragon and GPS software.

4. Field Work and Equipment Fabrication

Lifting/physical labor and general building skills will be required. The field work component of this position is significant and includes, but is not limited to: lifting of items weighing 60#, walking over rough terrain, working in all variety of weather conditions, working inside of confined spaces such as storm sewers and stormwater BMPs, removing debris from stormwater BMPs, installing steel enclosures, hand trenching for cable chases, post hole digging and setting 4”x4”x10’ posts, building rain gauge platforms, fabricating PVC enclosures and anchoring cables/probes into storm sewers.

5. General Skills and Abilities

Ability to take direction, work independently with a minimum of supervision, use good time management practices, possess the ability to set priorities and balance large volumes of diverse

work. Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with the District Administrator, CRWD Board of Managers, Citizens Advisory Committee, Ramsey Conservation District staff, Ramsey County staff, City and agency staff, members of the public, Contractors, Developers, Developer Engineers and other interested parties. Ability to effectively communicate orally and in written form. Ability and skill with analysis, planning, and implementation of

monitoring programs and solutions. Ability to research and prepare detailed reports and analyses.

Must have valid Minnesota driver’s license and have vehicle available for periodic business use

on a mileage reimbursement basis. The vehicle must have insurance approved by the District.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

None, unless otherwise assigned. Occasionally provide work direction for and lead a team of seasonal employees and/or volunteers.

RESPONSIBILITY FOR PUBLIC CONTACT

High level of public contact requiring tact, courtesy and good judgment.

EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION

Salaried, exempt from the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act. The Capitol Region Watershed District embraces and values diversity and seeks to recruit, promote and retain employees that reflect the diverse community we serve. We believe that multilingual and bilingual staff and a diverse mix of employees enrich the workplace and enhance the quality of our service. The Capitol Region Watershed District encourages all qualified to apply for open position.

NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY

The Capitol Region Watershed District will not discriminate against or harass any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, or status with regard to public assistance.

 

Biological Science Technician (San Francisco, CA)

The Presidio Trust is a Federal government corporation that manages and protects the Presidio of San Francisco as part of the National Park System.  The Trust is now accepting applications for the following Federal excepted-service position. 

BIOLOGICAL SCIENCE TECHNICIAN      

Duties consist of technical biological science tasks common to natural resource management including: field resources management work in native plant restoration, protection, inventorying and monitoring; and assisting in wildlife management activities and water quality monitoring activities.  This position requires strenuous physical activity that includes exotic plant eradication, outplanting native plants, and leading volunteers and students in weeding and planting programs.  This is a term position with benefits, not to exceed September 30, 2010.

Requires 4 year college degree; excellent communication ability to motivate and lead volunteer groups and students; ability to operate and maintain resource management equipment such as tools, traps, and sampling/monitoring/photographic/lab equipment; knowledge of established practices, procedures, and techniques of one or more of the biological sciences; knowledge of routine natural resource management practices, methods, and procedures; knowledge of data collection techniques, including installation, operation, and maintenance of testing and sampling equipment; ability to follow detailed sampling procedures, train others to accurately follow procedures, and recognize departures from established quality control/quality assurance guidelines; basic understanding of natural resource management principles and techniques to support, understand, and relate results to the broader natural resource function; ability to develop reports and present information; and knowledge of database management, word processing, spreadsheet, data entry and specialized software programs essential to resource management activities.

The Presidio Trust is an equal opportunity employer, offering a competitive benefits package.  To apply call (415) 561-5300 (Monday-Friday, 8 am - 5 pm) to request an application package, OR download the application from our website, www.presidio.gov/jobs , and mail the application to Human Resources, Presidio Trust, P.O. Box 29052, San Francisco, CA 94129-0052.

Field and Lab Technician (University of South Carolina)

RESEARCH SPECIALIST I Position at the University of South Carolina

The University of South Carolina in Columbia has an opening for a full time grant-funded technician to work on research projects on the North and South Carolina Coastal Plains. Time will be split between wetland field work and laboratory/data analysis. Field work will take place in both freshwater and brackish/salt marsh wetlands. Laboratory work will include chemical analysis of water and soil/sediment samples using standard analytical methods and equipment.   Salary is $27,369 and offers full benefits of annual and sick leave, health insurance and retirement.  

A complete description of the position can be found at https://uscjobs.sc.edu and applications must be submitted through this website.  A cover letter and resume may be included, however, a list of three references is required.  Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

The University of South Carolina is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.  Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.

Daniel L. Tufford, Ph.D.

University of South Carolina

Department of Biological Sciences

209A Sumwalt    (office)

701 Sumter St, Room 401    (mail)

Columbia, SC 29208

Ph. 803-777-3292, Fx: 803-777-3292

e-mail: tufford@sc.edu

web: http://www.biol.sc.edu/~tufford

 

Field Technician (Abilene, TX)

Field Technician needed to begin in March/April 2009 to assess the impact of wind turbines on birds and bats. Work will be through private contract with consulting firm. Own field vehicle is required with paid mileage.

Housing may be provided.  This position will last until Feb 2010 and would require a commitment until the end of project.

Location: Abilene, TX

Salary: Hourly

Qualifications: Field experience, rabies vaccination or post vaccination titer, Bird and/or Bat ID skills and AAS or BS preferred. Applicant must be physically fit and will need to maintain concentration while searching over long distances in heat, wind and cold and in the presence of venomous snakes.

Please send resume to:

Linda Slobodnik, lmsconsulting@yahoo.com

Research Assistant (Technician) for work on Climate Change Experiments (Duke Forest, Durham, NC)

PROJECT TITLE: Research Assistant (Technician) for work on climate change experiments.

DESCRIPTION:  We seek a person with strong technical and problem-solving skills, experience in ecology and, ideally, some administrative/managerial experience to oversee day-to-day technical work on a climate chambers located at Duke Forest, near Durham, North Carolina. The aim of the project is to understand the effects of climate and in particular increasing temperatures on ant communities and the species and ecological processes that depend on them. The ideal candidate is someone who likes to tinker with equipment and solve problems in the field, works well with others and is well organized. Although some of the work will involve invertebrates (and in particular ants) experience with invertebrates is not necessary. This position will be 70% field technician/manager and 30% ecology research assistant. Key duties and responsibilities include:

(1) Maintain climate chambers (fix broken equipment, monitor equipment, deal with problems). Be in charge of day-to-day activities related to the climate chambers and research therein.

(2) Coordinate collection and processing of samples.

(3) Construct and lead the construction of new equipment, where appropriate.

(4) Hire and oversee undergraduate workers and assist students and other researchers using the climate chambers in their research.

(5) Contribute to project development.

(6) Assist with ecological fieldwork. Fieldwork generally entails sampling of ants with pitfall traps, work with leaf-litter and related lab work including work related to the seed dispersal of ant-dispersed plants.

Depending on the candidate, there is also room to write papers, design independent research projects and play an active scientific role.

Salary Range: $30,000 (plus benefits) depending on experience. This position has an initial appointment of one year, with the possibility of additional two years of additional support available, contingent on performance.  Funding is available for attendance at national meetings as well as well as for training and travel where necessary.

RESEARCH GROUP: The candidate would work in the lab of Rob Dunn at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, NC. The candidate would also work with the other PIs on the project (Nathan Sanders at the University of Tennessee, Aaron Ellison at Harvard Forest and Nick Gotelli at the University of Vermont) and will interact with the lab of Jim Clark at Duke University.

LOCATION: North Carolina State University. The position is based in the Department of Biology, a large interdisciplinary department with strong links to the research in the Genetics, Entomology, History and Forestry departments and also to researchers at neighboring Duke and UNC.

QUALIFICATIONS: Qualifications: MS in biology, ecology, engineering (or related disciplines) + field experience. A valid driver’s license is required. NC Driver’s license required within 60 days of hire.

APPLICATION: Applicants must apply online. See http://jobs.ncsu.edu (position # 01-16-0820) for instructions and required documentation. Please contact Rob Dunn (rob_dunn <at> ncsu.edu) with any questions regarding the requirements or obligations of the position. A CV, letter of intent and contact information for three references are required. Proper documentation of identity and employability will be required before the hiring process can be finalized.

PROPOSED HIRE DATE: We would like to hire as soon as possible. Work at the sites is already ongoing. North Carolina State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. NC State welcomes all persons without regard to sexual orientation. Persons with disabilities who need accommodations in the application process should contact Susan Marschalk, Department of Zoology, via telephone at (919) 515-2741.

Contact for additional information: Rob_Dunn <at> ncsu.edu

Rob R. Dunn

Assistant Professor

Department of Biology

North Carolina State University

Rob_Dunn@ncsu.edu

EVERY LIVING THING:

http://www.harpercollins.com/books/9780061430305/Every_Living_Thing/index.aspx

***Post Undergraduate Part-Time Employment***

Amazon Bird Surveying Opportunites

BIRD WATCHERS WANTED FOR WILDLIFE PROJECT IN THE PERUVIAN AMAZON

** ONLY 2 PLACES LEFT FOR PHASE I - JULY 6TH – SEPT 20TH 2009 **

Do you care about birds (the feathery kind)? Love toucans? Have enthusiasm for monitoring and identifying birds? If so, this could be a once in a lifetime opportunity to work with ornithologists and experts in tropical ecology to make a long-term contribution towards avian conservation in the rainforests of Peru!

Fauna Forever Tambopata is a long-term wildlife and ecotourism monitoring project based in and around the Tambopata National Reserve and Bahuaja Sonene National Park in the Amazon rainforest of south-eastern Peru. This region lies on the eastern edge of the Tropical Andes biodiversity hotspot, the richest and most diverse area on Earth. The Project is offering places

to bird watchers to help carry out avian monitoring. No previous research experience is required - all you need is a passion for birds! You will be expected to make a contribution to costs associated with training, local travel, food and accommodation.

The research sites are located in some of the world’s most biodiverse rainforests, including prize-winning ecolodge the Tambopata Research Center run by Rainforest Expeditions (www.perunature.com) where you will find one of the largest clay licks in the Amazon where hundreds of macaws and parrots gather daily…. a spectacle not to be missed! The positions are ideal for anyone interested in gaining tropical forest fieldwork experience in ecology and wildlife monitoring. You will be trained in avian monitoring techniques including mist-netting and point count surveying and species identification skills.

Qualifications/Experience:

Applicants should be at least 18 years of age, be in good health, have a fairly good level of physical fitness, and be able to swim 100 m unaided. A keen interest, educational qualifications, and previous experience in a related biological field would be an advantage. Some knowledge of Spanish would also be useful, but is not essential for most aspects of the work, which will be directed in both English and Spanish. A sense of adventure and the ability to endure often challenging conditions are essential - as is a good sense of humour!

To apply: Please fill in an Application Form on the Project website and email it with your CV (no more than 2 pages) to mail@faunaforevertambopata.org.

For more information please see the Project website: www.faunaforevertambopata.org

Amazon Herpetofauna Enthusiasts Wanted

HERPETOLOGISTS NEEDED FOR WILDLIFE PROJECT IN THE PERUVIAN AMAZON

** ONLY 2 PLACES LEFT FOR PHASE I - JULY 6TH – SEPT 20TH 2009 **

Do you care about amphibians? Love reptiles? Have enthusiasm for monitoring caiman? If so, this could be a once in a lifetime opportunity to work with herpetologists and experts in tropical ecology to make a long-term contribution towards reptile and amphibian conservation in the rainforests of Peru!

Fauna Forever Tambopata is a long-term wildlife and ecotourism monitoring project based in and around the Tambopata National Reserve and Bahuaja Sonene National Park in the Amazon rainforest of south-eastern Peru. This region lies on the eastern edge of the Tropical Andes biodiversity hotspot, the richest and most diverse area on Earth. The Project is offering places to herpetologists to help carry out reptile and amphibian monitoring. No previous research experience is required - all you need is a passion for herps! You will be expected to make a contribution to costs associated with training, local travel, food and accommodation.

The research sites are located in some of the world’s most biodiverse rainforests, including prize-winning ecolodges run by Rainforest Expeditions (www.perunature.com) and the two oldest ecolodges and research stations in the Peruvian Amazon: the Explorers Inn (www.explorersinn.com) and Reserva Amazonica (www.reserva-amazonica.info).

The positions are ideal for anyone interested in developing their surveying and identification skills in the field of neotropical herpetology. You will be trained in herptile surveying techniques and species identification skills.

Qualifications/Experience:

Applicants should be at least 18 years of age, be in good health, have a fairly good level of physical fitness, and be able to swim 100 m unaided. A keen interest, educational qualifications, and previous experience in herpetology would be an advantage. Some knowledge of Spanish would also be useful, but is not essential for most aspects of the work, which will be directed in both English and Spanish. A sense of adventure and the ability to endure often challenging conditions are essential - as is a good sense of humour!

To apply: Please fill in an Application Form on the Project website and email it with your CV (no more than 2 pages) to mail@faunaforevertambopata.org.  For more information please see the Project website: www.faunaforevertambopata.org

SharePoint Developer (NOAA)

I.M. Systems Group (www.imsg.com), a contractor to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, seeks an individual to serve as a SharePoint Developer.  This is a six month position that may be extended. This individual will work with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA’s) Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management

(OCRM- http://coastalmanagement.noaa.gov), part of NOAA’s National Ocean Service. Responsibilities: The SharePoint/MOSS Site Designer/Developer will provide MOSS/SharePoint design work, custom development, documentation and best practices consulting. This will include consulting with customers to identify and implement MOSS/SharePoint requirements.

The Developer will:

• Provide SharePoint design work, custom development, documentation and best practices consulting.

• Consult with customers to identify and implement SharePoint requirements using standard web parts, workflows ad business intelligence.

• Assess new and relevant SharePoint Services technologies that will meet customer needs.

• Prepare and update SharePoint Services documentation and define proper business process.

• Works with team members to design, spec out functions and features, build prototypes, test and deploy final versions of new SharePoint applications.  Works with end users to develop application documentation and appropriate training and help documents (print and online) to support users and ensure the successful use of the applications.

• Works with end users to identify possible areas for improvement to SharePoint sites that would enhance the functionality of the sites for clients and project workers.

• Works with users to identify and define new requirements and changes for sites and pages in an orderly, cost-effective, well-documented fashion; manage the testing and deployment of changed and new content and site modifications.

• Provides day to day support for inquiries or performance issues regarding all SharePoint applications.

• Adds and configures Web parts to SharePoint applications in development and operational modes as directed by management as needed.

• Based on expert knowledge of client access requirements for various levels of users, administers, configures and adjusts site permissions

• Uses SharePoint Designer to customize and brand Sharepoint sites pursuant to project and client requirements.

 

Qualifications:

Required:

• College or technical degree

• Hands on Sharepoint design and development experience

• Ability to work well individually and cooperatively with a range of individuals

• Ability to work on several projects simultaneously and to shift priorities as needed

 

To Apply:

Applicants should email their resume, cover letter describing experience relevant to the Responsibilities highlighted above, salary requirements and the names and contact information for three (3) references to jobs@imsg.com with the following subject line: NOA08022 – SharePoint Developer.   The vacancy announcement is open until filled.  The salary for this position is commensurate with experience.

IMSG is an equal opportunity employer.

Field Assistants for Juvenile Ring-Tailed Lemur Feeding Ecology in Madagascar

If interested, please contact Teague O’Mara directly at teague.omara@asu.edu

I am searching for several independent and capable field assistants to participate in data collection for a Ph.D. project that will focus on the development feeding ecology and stress measures of juvenile ring-tailed lemurs at the Beza Mahafaly Special Reserve.

Beza Mahafaly is located in Southwestern Madagascar. While in the field, assistants will be responsible for conducting full-day behavioral observations and recording GPS ranging coordinates. We will also be collecting fecal samples for steroid hormone analyses, and collecting monthly phenology data for several areas of the forest, both within the reserve and outside. Assistants will learn various field methods relevant for the study of animal behavior and behavioral ecology, as well as study design and what it takes to maintain the daily operations of a field project.

This is an ideal position for someone interested in gaining field experience in preparation for a graduate program in anthropology, ecology, or conservation biology. Independent projects are highly encouraged as long as they fit within the data collection protocol of the project. Please email me at teague.omara@asu.edu for a more detailed description of the project and to discuss how your ideas can fit in with the data collection scheme. Also, we may be able to find some small amounts of funding to help these projects so contacting me sooner is better.

Camp conditions are very basic, but also very nice. We live in tents and pull our own water from a well, but latrine and shower facilities (via a solar shower) are available. We also pay for a cook who prepares all of our meals from the food we provide. There is no phone or internet access at Beza, but a phone (and cell phone reception) is available in Betioky, approximately 45 km away from the site which can be regularly accessed by ox, cart or by bike.

Qualifications/Experience:

Applicants should have a B.S. or B.A. in Physical Anthropology, Biology, Ecology, Animal Behavior, or other related field. Previous experience working with primates is not necessary, though experience with animals, camping, and/or working outdoors is strongly preferred. The ideal applicant should have prior experience with living or working in a foreign country, with special preference for developing countries. Knowledge of French is helpful, but not necessary; however, a willingness to learn and use Malagasy is expected. Experience with collecting systematic data in a scientific context is preferred, and a strong interest in primate behavior and ecology is a must. There are no citizen requirements.

In general, applicants must be in good physical and mental condition; feel comfortable being far away from family and friends; be emotionally mature, energetic, and very patient. An excellent sense of humor is a must as things often go wrong or are delayed unexpectedly.

Salary/funding:

None at this time. Applicants must provide:

- Round-trip airfare to Madagascar (cost varies)

- Immunizations and malarial prophylaxis

- Malagasy visa (circa US$80)

- MICET facilitation fee (US$350)

- Daily station fees (approximately US$200/month)

- Own personal equipment (tent, field clothes, binoculars)

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):

I will provide food while at Beza, and internal travel while with me. Some additional support may be available to defray entrance and camping fees at Beza Mahafaly.

Term of Appointment:

Minimum 6 month commitment; 11 month commitment preferred. Position begins in late March or early April, 2009 and applications will be accepted until positions are filled.

Please visit http://www.public.asu.edu/~mtomara/page9/page9.html<http://www.public.asu.edu/%7Emtomara/page9/page9.html>or email me at teague.omara@asu.edu to receive an information pack describing the project and the site in more detail. If still interested, please submit the following (via email) to teague.omara@asu.edu:

1. Letter of interest (please include dates you are available)

2. Curriculum Vitae including relevant coursework, previous field/outdoor experience, and where/how you can be contacted

3. Name and contact info for least two people who can provide information about your experiences, skills, and training (preferably professors, research supervisors, or field school instructors with whom you’ve worked closely).

 

Seasonal Field Research Intern (Cedar Creek, University of Minnesota)

The Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve (formerly Cedar Creek Natural History Area) of the University of Minnesota has opportunities for students to work as Research Interns in three types of positions; 1) Plant community ecology, 2) Wildlife biology, and 3) Environmental education. Most positions run from June through August, but some interns are needed as early as March and some are needed through December. Your educational institution may be able to approve this internship, with an appropriate independent project, for any field biology requirement of your major. Typical work days are eight hours Monday through Friday, however some projects require weekend and evening work. If you are an undergraduate or a newly graduated student with a background or interest in biology, ecology, environmental science, botany, environmental education, wildlife biology, or related field we encourage you to apply. Below are brief descriptions of the three types of positions available:

1. Plant community ecology. We have two large scale projects that require most of our intern resources throughout the summer. BioCON is one of the large scale experiments where we explore the ways in which plant communities respond to environmental changes such as increased nitrogen deposition, increased atmospheric CO2, decreased biodiversity, and altered precipitation patterns. The other large scale project is the Big Biodiversity experiment that studies how plant diversity affects the rates, dynamics, and stability of ecological processes at the population, community, and ecosystem levels. There are multiple experiments nested within the Big Biodiversity experiment as well, looking at factors such as irrigation and increased temperatures. Throughout the summer we maintain and sample these experiments.

2. Wildlife biology. The starting date will be mid-April to mid-May. The research will be looking at how harvesting resorted prairies for biofuel affects wildlife. The work will include wildlife surveys encompassing birds, small mammals, insects, reptiles, and amphibians. Bird survey duties will include identifying birds by sight and sound. Small mammal survey duties include operating Sherman live traps and species identification. Insect survey duties will include methods such as sweep netting and pitfall traps. Additional surveys will require plant identification skills. Duties may go beyond what is listed. The applicant must have a flexible schedule and be willing to work odd hours including weekends and holidays. The position will entail extensive travel throughout the western Minnesota prairie region and requires a valid driver’s license.

3. Environmental education. We are looking for an out-going, self-motivated individual to serve as an intern for our growing environmental education and outreach programs, including formal K-12 science education programs and informal environmental programs for general audiences. This is a seasonal full-time position, starting mid-May and running through October, 2009. To apply for any of the above intern positions please visit our website, http://cedarcreek.umn.edu/interns/.

The deadline for application submission is March 9th, 2009.

Ecology Internships (Western US)

The Conservation and Land Management Internship Program is now accepting applications for 2009! Apply online at http://www.clminternship.org

Would you like to put your education to use assisting in important conservation projects? Do you like to experience new landscapes, habitats, and species diversity? The CLM Internship Program is a wonderful opportunity to begin a career in natural resource management and conservation!

Each year, the Conservation and Land Management Internship Program places 75-100 college graduates in five-month paid internships to assist professional staff at the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), National Park Service (NPS), US Fish and Wildlife Service (NFWF) or US Geologic Survey (USGS). Internships are primarily located in one of the thirteen western states, including Alaska!  Each internship is unique and may focus on botany, wildlife, or a combination of the two. Projects may include monitoring or assessing threatened and endangered species and habitats.

Applicants with strong botanical backgrounds are especially encouraged to apply!

Benefits of the CLM Internship Program are numerous! As a CLM intern, you will receive a stipend of $11,000 and will attend an all expenses-paid week long training workshop. In addition, the CLM Internship Program provides opportunities to make connections in various governmental and non-profit organizations, to learn what it’s like to work at a federal agency, to explore your career goals and expand your resume.

For more information and to apply online, please visit:

http://www.clminternship.org

Seasonal Biological Science Technicians (Bar Harbor, ME)

Job Title: Biological Science Technician

Job Type: full-time seasonal position

Organization: National Park Service

Location: Bar Harbor, ME (Duty Station first 9 weeks), and Fredericksburg, VA (Duty Station second 9 weeks)

Open Period: 1/7/09-1/28/09

Vacancies: 4 crew members

Duration: 18 weeks mid May to September (exact dates TBD)

Grade: GS-5

Pay: $14.74-15.94/hour

 

Job Description:

The National Park Service Inventory and Monitoring (I&M) Program is recruiting up to 4 seasonal Biological Science Technician to be a part of a 2-3 person field crew that will be collecting forest health data in 16 parks throughout the Eastern US.  Incumbents will establish permanent forest monitoring plots and collect data on forest health, structure and composition, regeneration, understory vegetation, coarse woody debris, and soil characteristics.    

The crew will work in park sites from Virginia to Maine.  The first 5 weeks of the season will be spent in training at Acadia NP (1 week) and sampling National Historic Parks in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut (4 weeks).  The crew will then spend approximately 5 weeks sampling in Acadia National Park, and 8 weeks working in Mid-Atlantic parks located in Virginia and Pennsylvania.  The crew will stay in park housing where available, and lodging may include hotels, historic buildings and cabins.  Other duties may include pressing unknown plant specimens, equipment maintenance and repair, preparing soil samples for processing, and data entry.

This is largely a field based position, and incumbents will be required to carry heavy field equipment (40+lbs), hike though rough terrain, and work in all weather conditions.  Park housing will be available at the duty stations (Bar Harbor, ME and Fredericksburg, VA).  When away from duty station (approx. 50% of the time), the National Park Service will pay lodging and per diem costs. 

For more information and to apply, please view the announcement (vacancy announcement # SH-NETN DEU 90-8T) on the USAJOBS website (www.usajobs.opm.gov). 

Forest Monitoring Technicians (Pennsylvania State University)

Job Opportunities:

Forest Monitoring Technicians

Summer 2009

The Pennsylvania State University School of Forest Resources is hiring two seasonal technicians to collect forest monitoring data in eight national parks in Pennsylvania and West Virginia, including the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, New River Gorge National River, and Gauley River National Recreational Area. This is the third year of a long-term monitoring program investigating forest condition at these national parks. The positions begin in mid-May 2008 and continue for 12 – 15 weeks with compensation of $11-13 per hour depending on experience.  Technicians will travel to and be housed in or near a national park each week.  Reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed.

Applicants should enjoy working outdoors in a variety of conditions and be able to identify common trees and shrubs of Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Training or experience in forest ecology and collecting forest data is desirable.  Knowledge or experience in one or more of the following areas is highly desirable: forest pests and pathogens; forest soils; and/or identification of herbaceous and graminoid plants.  Applicants should be able to navigate in the woods by compass and using GPS.  The ability to hike long distances over steep terrain will also be required.  Additional tasks will include data entry and quality control of data.

If interested, please send a brief cover letter, a resume, and contact information for three references to Stephanie Perles (sjp16@psu.edu) by February 28, 2009.

Seasonal Field Ecology Intern (Front Royal, VA)

Classification : Internship

Title : Field Ecology Intern

Agency : Conservation and Research Center, National Zoo, Smithsonian

Description: The Smithsonian Institution’s Conservation and Research Center is looking for 2-3 field research interns for a 5 month appointment (with possibility of extension) from May 2009 to September 2009. Duties will focus on vegetation surveys and invasive plant species surveys, but will also include camera trapping, small mammal trapping, white-tailed deer capture and radio telemetry, data entry, and GIS analysis.

Location : Front Royal, VA

Salary : $600/month stipend and free housing

Qualification : Applicant must have obtained a bachelors in wildlife biology, ecology or related field within the last 6 months. An applicant must be able to work outside in all types of field conditions. A good knowledge of Virginia’s plant species and their identification, as well as, previous field work and wild animal handling is highly regarded. To apply, please send cover letter, resume, unofficial transcripts, and contacts for three references to the email address below.

Start Date : May 2009

Application Deadline : February 21, 2009

Contact Person : Megan Baker

E-mail : crcecology@si.edu

 

Natural Resources ArcGIS Staff Position (central Illinois)

Hello Everyone,

Please see the below part-time job announcement for the Champaign County Forest Preserve District in Illinois.  Please forward to anyone you think may be interested in the position.

Position Announcement:  Natural Resources ArcGIS (Part-time)

Join the team responsible for conserving, restoring, and caring for nearly 3,500 acres of natural area throughout Champaign County, Illinois.  This is a part-time position.

Responsibilities

The Natural Resources ArcGIS position is responsible for assisting Natural Resources Staff with the conservation and restoration of natural areas by updating and developing new maps, overlays, and aerial pictures in ArcGIS format, and maintaining all departmental databases.

Education and Knowledge

The ideal candidate will possess or be working towards a degree in Restoration Ecology, Natural Resources, Park Management, Forestry, Botany, Geography or a related field.

Knowledge of ArcGIS 9.0 or higher is needed.  Additional knowledge of ArcView or ArcGIS extensions and components are a plus.

Experience with GPS units and software is needed.

Experience digitizing and overlaying photos and maps needed.

Experience with restoration or conservation of natural areas will be helpful.

Knowledge of computer software (Excel or Access) used for database entry is also needed.

Candidates must be able to communicate clearly orally and in writing and have a valid Illinois driver’s license.

Expectations

This position will report to Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve in Mahomet, Illinois.  This position is part-time for one year.  The position can be used towards internship credit if needed.  Position is not to exceed 650 hours per year.  Pay rate is $8.50/hr to $9.00/hr, based on experience.

The numbers of hours worked per week are flexible.

To Apply

To apply please send a resume with names and phone numbers of three references to Dan Olson, Director of Natural Resources, P.O. Box 1040, Mahomet, Illinois  61853.  Or email to dolson@ccfpd.org  Applications will be accepted until March 1, 2009.   For additional FAQ’s please visit www.ccfpd.org.

Daniel J. Olson

Director of Natural Resources

Champaign County Forest Preserve District

P.O. Box 1040

Mahomet, Illinois  61853

(217) 586-4389

Fax - (217) 586-6852

 

Seasonal Research Assistant:  Disease Ecology and Evolution (University of Pennsylvania)

Disease Ecology and Evolution Project Assistant (April-September)

University of Pennsylvania

Full-time Project Assistants (paid) are needed for research on the ecology and evolution of the Lyme disease bacterium in Southeastern Pennsylvania. Research in the Brisson laboratory focuses on the evolving interactions among bacteria, ticks, and animal hosts, and Lyme disease prevalence. Duties include live-trapping small mammals and birds and sampling tick abundance and infection status. Early morning, moderately strenuous activity is required. Field research is conducted in small teams in Crow’s Nest Preserve, PA – about 45 minutes west of Philadelphia. Prior experience handling wild small mammals or birds is highly desirable; strong work ethic, meticulousness, and ability to work both independently and in small teams are required. The project offers research and learning experiences for Project Assistants, particularly with regard to the ecology and evolution of infectious diseases.

Desired dates of employment (35 hours/week): April 13 to September 12, 2009, although applicants available during summer break from college are also welcome.  Wage is commensurate with education experience. Near-site housing is available.

Consideration of applications will begin on Feb 23rd. Please submit via email a brief letter of application, a resume, and the names, phone numbers, and email addresses of three professional references to:

Dustin Brisson

dbrisson@sas.upenn.edu

 

Department of Biology

University of Pennsylvania

Leidy Laboratories, 209

433 South University Avenue

Philadelphia PA 19104-6018

V:215.746.1731

F:215.898.8780

 

Great Lakes Summer Student Fellowship Program (University of Michigan)

The Cooperative Institute for Limnology and Ecosystems Research (CILER), administered by the University of Michigan, announces the 2009 Great Lakes Summer Student Fellowship Program.  The 2009 program is hosted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL) and Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, and the U.S.Geological Survey’s (USGS) Great Lakes Science Center.

We seek to fill* twenty-two (22)* full-time, twelve-week positions.  Preference is given to currently enrolled or just-graduated undergraduates, although graduate student applications will also be considered.  Successful applicants will receive a stipend of $5,750 for the twelve-week fellowship.

Summer fellowships are available in a broad range of fields including Aquatic Ecology, Outreach and Communications, Maritime Archaeology, Data Analysis, Modeling, Marine Instrumentation, Oceanography, and Wetland Ecology.  Program information is available online: http://ciler.snre.umich.edu/summerfellows.php.

Fellowship applications must contain:

   1. a completed application form

   2. a résumé

   3. transcripts (unofficial copies are acceptable and can be mailed or e-mailed separately)

   4. one reference letter (can be sent electronically if it originates from the reference writer)

*E-mail applications to: GLsummerfellows@umich.edu

All application material is due *27-February, 2009*.  Late applications will not be considered.  Decisions about all positions will be made by *31-March, 2009.*

For specific questions about each opportunity, contact the individual mentors. These e-mail addresses are provided with the opportunity descriptions. 

/The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer/

Laura Welsh Florence, Outreach and Education Coordinator

University of Michigan--Cooperative Institute for Limnology and Ecosystems Research (CILER)

Mailing address:

NOAA-Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL)

4840 S. State Rd

Ann Arbor, MI  48108

(734) 741-2392 (office)

(734) 741-2055 (fax)

Laura.Florence@noaa.gov

lwelsh@umich.edu

 

Field Technician Positions (Altoona, PA)

Field Technicians needed to begin in March/April 2009 to assess the impact of wind turbines on birds and bats. Work will be through private contract with consulting firm. Own field vehicle is required with paid mileage. Housing may be provided.  This is a temporary position that will require a commitment until November/December 2009.

Location: near Altoona, Penn

Salary: Hourly

Qualifications: Field experience, rabies vaccination or post vaccination titer, Bird and/or Bat ID skills and AAS or BS preferred. Applicant must be physically fit and will need to maintain concentration while searching over long distances in heat, wind and cold and in the presence of venomous snakes.

Please send resume to:

Linda Slobodnik

lmsconsulting@yahoo.com

 

Research Technician Positions (Ozark Mountains, AR and MO)

I seek motivated individuals to assist with ecology, conservation biology, and fisheries biology research projects in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas and Missouri.  Work will include field sampling and experiments in streams, mesocosm and laboratory experiments, as well as office work.  Projects include the possibility of developing special research projects and co-authoring publications.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Two full time technician positions are available.  Start date is March 1, 2009 (flexible) and end date is September 1, 2009 (flexible).  Salary is $1,500 per month.  

DUTIES AND QUALIFICATIONS:

The technicians will perform work in the field, lab and greenhouse.  Duties will include field sampling, maintenance and operation of field and laboratory experiments, data collection, computer input, and analysis and writing (dependent on ability).  Preference will be given to candidates with a BS in ecology, conservation biology, fisheries or a related field. Applicants should have a willingness and ability to perform field work, good note taking skills, and a positive attitude.

HOW TO APPLY:

Send a cover letter, list of relevant courses and grades, and resume with names, phones numbers and email addresses of three references to danmag@uark.edu or:

Dan Magoulick

Arkansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit

Department of Biological Sciences

University of Arkansas

Fayetteville, AR  72701

For more information call 479-575-5449 or e-mail danmag@uark.edu.

 

Seasonal Field Botanist, Nature Conservancy (Fort Hood, TX)

SEASONAL FIELD BOTANIST (4 positions available)

SALARY:                 $13.00/hour

START DATE:          June 29, 2009

LOCATION:              Fort Hood, TX

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

•Associate’s degree in natural resources, environmental studies or equivalent combination of education and 6 months of experience.  Bachelor’s degree preferred.

•Experience managing and prioritizing tasks from multiple sources.

•Experience performing administrative duties emphasizing detail-oriented and numerical tasks.

•Experience working with Microsoft Office Suite software.

•Experience working and communicating with a diverse group of people

•Valid driver’s license.  Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee’s motor vehicle record.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Fort Hood Military Reservation, located adjacent to Killeen, TX, is home to two endangered birds: the golden-cheeked warbler and the black-capped vireo.  The Nature Conservancy, in cooperation with the Department of Defense, is conducting long-term monitoring and research on these species.  The seasonal field botanists will participate in several vegetation studies related to The Nature Conservancy’s endangered species research.  Projects include characterization of golden-cheeked warbler and black-capped vireo habitat and studying the effects of fire on grasslands.  Duties will include collecting detailed vegetation data using plots, transects, and pin frames; locating vegetation plots using GPS units; data entry and verification; and preparation of equipment for field work.  This is a seasonal position running from June 29 to October 23.  Four to six positions are available, depending on funding.

ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS:

•Experience collecting biological field data and keeping accurate, detailed field records. 

•Familiarity with the vegetation (woody and herbaceous) of the Edwards Plateau is highly desirable.

•Experience using GIS software and data to create maps, as well as using GPS units and reading maps.

•Familiar with the operation of 4WD, standard transmission vehicles.  Field sites are located in rugged, remote terrain.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL EFFORT:

The Seasonal Field Botanist will work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.  These conditions may include the following:

•exposure to intense heat and sunshine

•long work hours in isolated settings

•contact with poison ivy, chiggers, fire ants, scorpions, thorns, and venomous snakes

•extensive walking through brush, over loose rocks, and on steep slopes

•require physical exertion and/or muscular strain

•present occasional possibility of injury ABOUT US:

The Nature Conservancy is the world’s leading conservation organization, working in all 50 states and more than 33 countries. Founded in 1951, the mission of The Nature Conservancy is to preserve the plants, animals and natural communities that represent the diversity of life on Earth by protecting the lands and waters they need to survive.

To apply, visit http://www.nature.org/careers.  Click “how to apply”, “view positions” and then conduct an advanced search by Job opening ID #10783.  Please upload your cover letter and resume as one document (Word or text file).  Application deadline is April 15, 2009.  Applicants will be screened, interviewed, and hired as applications are received.

The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Seasonal Range/Botany Field Technicians (Multiple States)

Range/Botany Field Technicians (2 positions)

Start Date:  May 11, 2009

Location:  Multi-state - CA, UT, WY, ID

Job Description and Duties:  The Ecosystem Management Research Institute is hiring 2 seasonal range or botany field technicians to conduct vegetation and ecological site surveys in a number of regions in the western U.S. including California, Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming.  This work is in support of a NRCS Conservation Innovation Grant involving both private and public lands.  Field surveys will begin in mid-May and continue through mid-August.

Knowledge/Experience:  Experience and/or course work in botany, range ecology, vegetation ecology, or related fields; must have proficient plant key/taxonomic skills; previous vegetation/ecological site sampling experience preferred; must be able to navigate using maps, compass, and/or GPS device; ability to develop work schedules, prioritize tasks and complete tasks within those schedules; and computer experience in Excel and in GPS Inventory/GIS Mapping is desirable.  

Problem Solving:  Analyze situations with numerous variables, evaluate alternatives, and implement solutions. Communication:  Ability to function and interact professionally and productively as part of a work team; ability to work effectively with diverse individuals and groups of people in order to achieve project goals; and ability to communicate professionally, positively, and effectively with the public.

Working Conditions/Physical Effort:  Ability to work independently or as part of a small team; ability to perform strenuous physical work, sometimes alone, under adverse conditions or in inclement weather; ability to operate trucks with standard transmissions; and must have a valid driver’s license.

Salary:  $1,600 to 2,600/month, commensurate with education level and experience.  Housing, field equipment, and field vehicles will be provided.  Individuals are responsible for providing their own rain gear and transportation to first site (to be determined at a later date).  

Apply:  Submit a resume and cover letter addressing each of the identified qualifications.  Also, include the names, addresses, emails, and telephone numbers of at least three references.  Review of applications will begin in February and applicant selection will continue until positions are filled.

Send requested information to:  emri@emri.org or mail to EMRI, P.O. Box

717, Seeley Lake, MT 59868.   www.emri.org

Field Research Assistants (Great Basin, NV)

FIELD RESEARCH ASSISTANTS (4) needed for continuation of long-term studies of bird responses to fire and fuels management and riparian bird community dynamics *in the mountains of central Nevada*. Primary responsibilities include daily morning surveys (point counts) and vegetation sampling at survey locations. Excellent opportunity to explore these little-known, spectacular mountain ranges (Shoshone, Toiyabe, Toquima, and Monitor) and to interact with multidisciplinary teams of scientists and land managers. Duration approximately six weeks (*26 May through 2 July*) with few days off, but some afternoons free. Research assistants will work independently and in small teams. Field vehicle provided, or use your own 4WD vehicle and receive additional compensation for mileage. Camping at field sites will be the norm, with occasional access to small-town motels or Forest Service housing with hot shower and basic kitchen facilities. Applicants *must* have demonstrable experience and proficiency in identification of western birds by sight and sound; bachelor’s or advanced degree in ecology or related field preferred. Applicants must be in good physical condition, able to work independently in rugged and remote locations, and willing to work long hours as necessary. Applicants also must have good organizational skills, including ability to collect and maintain accurate hard-copy data records; a valid driver’s license with a good driving record and off-road 4WD experience; current health insurance coverage; patience and a sense of humor. Compensation approximately $3000, but negotiable and dependent on experience. Send cover letter and resume or CV (with names, telephone numbers, and email addresses of three references) to *both* Erica Fleishman (fleishman AT nceas.ucsb.edu), National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis, Santa Barbara, CA *and* David Dobkin (dobkin AT hderi.org), High Desert Ecological Research Institute, Bend, OR.

Pika/Global Warming Project Fieldwork, Paid  & Volunteer (Glacier National Park, Montana)

June  10 – September 30, 2009

The study involves locating pikas (small lagomorph) while hiking at high altitudes, backcountry camping, working with a GPS receiver, and identification of plants and other mammals.  Applicants should have experience with extended backpacking excursions, be in excellent physical condition, and experience with some ecological field work is a plus.  Expect early mornings, unpredictable weather, wild animals, and gorgeous scenery.  There are also opportunities to work with GNP’s citizen science project that involves interaction and communication with the public about the project and related global warming science. 

The assistants will work with the project leader (Lucas Moyer-Horner, U-Wisconsin-Madison).  The two paid positions ($100/week stipend) are competitive with preference to applicants with experience and those able to stay through September.  Housing and camping fee waivers are available for volunteer and paid positions.  Course credit may be available through your department. 

To apply, please send an email to lrmoyerh@wisc.edu, with the subject “PIKA GNP”.  Please include a letter of interest, resume and one letter of recommendation.  Applications will be accepted until the positions are filled. 

Research Assistant for Mt. Graham Red Squirrel Telemetry (SE Arizona)

We seek one research assistant to participate in population and behavioral studies on the endangered Mt. Graham red squirrel in the Pinaleño Mountains in southeastern Arizona with the research group of John L. Koprowski (www.ag.arizona.edu/~squirrel).  This isolated population of squirrels has been monitored since 1989 and we are currently conducting intensive telemetric studies to learn more about habitat use, demographics, and reproductive success. This job provides a great opportunity to hone wildlife data collection skills and contribute to a long-term research project on these endangered mammals in their unique “sky island” habitat.  More information on the Mt. Graham red squirrel and the project can be found at http://www.ag.arizona.edu/research/redsquirrel/.

This is a temporary field position to begin as soon as possible and lasting for approximately 5 months. Work consists primarily of radio telemetry and habitat measurement in the scenic Pinaleño Mountains of southeastern Arizona. The project website provides more information on this subspecies and the field locale. The successful applicant is expected to conduct radio telemetry to investigate the space use of endangered Mt. Graham red squirrels, collect measurements of habitat characteristics, perform behavioral observations, and work within our project databases. Assisting with live trapping of red squirrels and introduced Abert’s squirrels may also be possible. The position requires periods of up to 10 days housed in the field without return to Tucson, necessitating excellent teamwork. Housing in the field and transportation from Tucson to the study site will be provided, however we cannot provide housing while in Tucson during days off.  Fieldwork is conducted both in pairs and alone under all weather conditions from summer heat and monsoon rains to winter snow at elevations above 9000 ft., frequently on high slopes. Independence and a tenacious work ethic are required. Successful applicants should be willing and able to spend entire days hiking or outdoors in variable conditions and have weather-appropriate gear and clothing (snowshoes are provided).

Temperatures on Mount Graham can range from -10 - 7 degrees C in January up to 14 - 29 degrees C in July. Finally, the successful applicant will be required to drive University vehicles. 

Duties and Responsibilities:

-Collection of radio telemetry data on small mammals

-Collection of standard habitat classification variables

-Hiking in rugged terrain at high elevations, often in harsh conditions like deep snow or heavy rains

-Database work: enter and proof data

-Participation in other related field research projects as needed

-Familiarity with use of map and compass

-Attendance and participation in regular staff meetings

-Maintain and safeguard personally assigned and project equipment

-Assist in routine maintenance of biology research camp facilities

-Participate in day-to-day operations to include: purchasing, errands, etc.

-Completion of necessary University safety courses and certifications Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

-Three years of related laboratory/research, field research, technical maintenance or archaeological experience, OR;  

-Any equivalent combination of experience, training and/or education approved by Human Resources

-A valid state driver’s license during period of employment

-Legally approved to work in the U.S.

Preferred Qualifications:

In addition to above:

-Bachelor’s degree in wildlife science, biology or related discipline

-Experience with radio telemetry under boreal forest field conditions

-Ability to manage and navigate a PC-based computer database (MS Access)

-Experience with backcountry travel and hiking, especially in montane environments

-Experience with behavioral observation of small mammals under natural conditions

-Experience with live trapping and marking of small mammals

-Experience with habitat analyses, especially circular plot sampling in forested environments

-Experience in field studies with threatened/endangered species

-Experience working alone and with groups in a field-based setting

-Experience driving on mountain roads, putting on tire chains, and snowshoeing is a plus

Only online applications will be considered.  Please go to: https://www.uacareertrack.com and search for job # 42461 Research/Laboratory Assistant to apply. 

Salary will be $9.49 per hour to start and the position will be open until filled. 

For more information, please contact:

Melissa Merrick, Wildlife Biologist Senior

mmerrick@email.arizona.edu

 

Mount Graham Biology Programs

University of Arizona

School of Natural Resources

Biological Sciences Building

East, Rm.325

Tucson, AZ 85721

Phone: 520-624-6439 

Fax: 520-740-0143

 

Research Technician for Forest Ecology/Fire (Pinecrest, CA)

Temporary Research Technician – Forestry, Forest/Fire Ecology

The U.S. Forest Service Pacific Southwest Research Station (www.fs.fed.us/psw/redding/) anticipates filling four temporary positions for the summer of 2009 (approximately late May or mid June through late August or mid September - start and end dates somewhat flexible) at the GS- 5 to GS-7 levels to assist with forestry and forest ecology research.  The duty station for the positions will be at Pinecrest, California, which is 35 miles east of Sonora in the Central Sierra Nevada. 

Job description:  Successful applicants will assist with forestry and fire-related research projects in the Stanislaus-Tuolumne Experimental Forest, near Pinecrest, CA.  The objectives of the studies are 1) to evaluate the influence of stand spatial structure on natural regeneration and resilience to wildfire, and 2) develop methods for minimizing mortality of large pines when fire is reintroduced after a long period of fire suppression.  Duties will include laying out study plots using GPS, GIS, and compass, and taking data on forest structural attributes.  We will also be collecting tree cores using increment borers to investigate tree growth rates in changing competitive environments over time.  These jobs are an excellent opportunity for recent college graduates (Bachelors or Masters degree) to gain work experience.  One of the positions will be for a crew leader; for this position an undergraduate degree is required with some graduate work/ degree or experience beneficial.  Pay commensurate with education and experience (GS-5 = $14.74/hr, GS-7 = $18.26/hr).  Employees are paid for federal holidays and accrue vacation time (4 hours per two week pay period). Housing in a nearby community and daily transportation to and from the work locations will be provided.

Qualifications:

o GS-5: Bachelor’s degree or 1 year experience at the GS-4 level, GS- 7: Bachelor’s degree plus 2 years of graduate work in biology, botany, forestry, natural resources, or related area, or 1 year experience at the GS-5 level.

o Coursework in forestry or ecology; GIS or GPS skills a plus but not necessary

o Must be physically fit and capable of hiking long distances over difficult terrain

o Enjoys being outdoors, and can deal with inclement weather and the occasional mosquito and stinging bee

o Capable of living and working closely together with others.

o Must have a valid drivers license, be a U.S. Citizen, and be at least 18 years old.

The Stanislaus-Tuolumne Experimental Forest is in a spectacular location just west of the Emigrant Wilderness and north of Yosemite National Park and contains some of finest remnant old-growth sugar pine mixed conifer forest outside of the National Parks. 

Apply at www.usajobs.gov.  Search for either: Biological Science Technician (Natural Resources), or Forestry Technician (Research).  The later would be for applicants with coursework in the field of forestry.  Scroll down to vacancy announcement:  TEMP-OCR-404-5 (RESNAT), or TEMP-OCR-462-5 (RES), both open Nationwide.  [Note: for those with education and experience that qualifies them at a higher level, use the vacancy announcement same as above except “5” is replaced by a  “7” for GS-7.]  When applying, you must select Pinecrest, CA as one of the duty stations you would like to be considered for.  This is an Open Continuous vacancy announcement with no closing date.  Those that wish to be considered for these positions must apply to the vacancy announcement by February 22, 2009.  The Referral List for these positions will be issued to the selecting official on February 23, 2009.  All applicants who have applied to the announcement on or before the listed dates and are found to be qualified will be referred for consideration. 

For more information call or email Eric Knapp at (530) 226-2555, or eknapp@fs.fed.us.

Note: this is an expansion of an earlier posting; if you are a student, you may apply by sending a resume, along with the name, title, address, phone number, and email address of at least three references directly to: eknapp@fs.fed.us. 

Seasonal Field Assistant, Carbon Cycling (Alaska)

A full-time research assistant position is available for summer/fall fieldwork in Alaska. 

The focus of our research program is to understand the effects of climate change on carbon cycling in tundra ecosystems.  The position will be based in Alaska at a field site adjacent to Denali National Park.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Fieldwork will include maintenance of experimental plots and measurements of ecosystem-level respiration, photosynthesis, isotopes and plant biomass. The research assistant will also have the opportunity to develop her/his own individual research in the context of the larger project.

This position will begin mid-May and continue through the fall, with the beginning and ending dates somewhat flexible.  Applicants who could work through the fall are strongly preferred, but summer-only applicants will also be considered.

Please look at the following link for more information about ongoing AK research in Dr. Ted Schuur’s ecosystem dynamics lab at the University of Florida: http://ecology.botany.ufl.edu/ecosystemdynamics/schuur/

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS: 

* Course background in biology, ecology, botany or soil science

* Prior field research experience

* A desire to work out-of-doors in an incredible location and willingness to work long hours in the field (occasionally under adverse weather conditions)

* Ability to work and live with other researchers in a collaborative research environment Competent, careful, emotionally mature and enthusiastic applicants desired! 

 

SUPPORT: 

Shared cabin housing in Alaska, round-trip airfare to the field site and a monthly stipend will be provided.

APPLICATION: 

To apply, send a letter of application, a brief resume, transcripts (unofficial copy or a list of relevant coursework including grades is fine), and names and addresses of three references.  In your cover letter, describe your relevant research experience and explain why you are interested in this position and how it fits into your long-term education and career goals.  Please include the dates you would be able to work—-if you are able to work through the fall please mention this in your application.

We will review applications beginning March 2, 2009 until filled.

Application material should be sent to: 

Sue Natali at natali@ufl.edu

-or –

Sue Natali

Dept. of Botany and Zoology

220 Bartram Hall

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL 32611

 

(9) Research Assistants for Community Ecology of Lyme Disease (NY Hudson Valley)

Spring-summer Project Assistants (up to 9):  Research the dynamics of mammalian communities and the relationships between mammals, ticks, Lyme disease ecology, tree seed survival, songbirds, and gypsy moths.  Location is the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies in New York’s Hudson River Valley.  Duties include live-trapping small and medium mammals and reliably recording pertinent data, sampling abundance of ticks, tree seed collection, and laboratory assays of tick infection with the Lyme disease bacterium. Early morning and late afternoon hours.  Prior experience handling small- or meso-mammals highly desirable.  Desired dates of employment (35 hours/week) are approximately April 20 to November 1, 2009, although applicants available during summer college break are also welcome.  Wage is commensurate with education and experience.  On-site housing is available.  EOE/AAD/Min/Fem/Vet/Disab.  Consideration of applications will begin on March 1st.  Please submit via email a letter of application, a resume, and the names, phone numbers, and email addresses of three professional references to:

Manager of Human Resources

Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies

Job Ref# 09004

P.O. Box AB

Millbrook, NY 12545

 

E-mail: jobs@ecostudies.org

Be sure to cite Job Number 09004

Position reports to Dr. Richard S. Ostfeld.

Richard S. Ostfeld, Ph.D.

Senior Scientist

Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies

Box AB, 2801 Sharon Turnpike

Millbrook, NY 12545 USA

845 677-7600, ext 136

rostfeld@caryinstitute.org

http://ecostudies.org/people_sci_ostfeld.htm