[ECOLOG-L] Conference: biogeography of microscopic organisms
Symposium: The importance of being small: does size matter in biogeography? Conveners: Diego Fontaneto, David Roberts, Juliet Brodie Location: Leiden, The Netherlands, August 13th 2009 Submission of abstract for talks or posters is now open: www.biosyst.eu (go to -scientific program -Symposia) This symposium is based around the hypothesis of everything-is-everywhere (EisE) amongst small organisms. This hypothesis was proposed at the beginning of the 20th century for microbial diversity and, about ten years ago, extended to describe spatial patterns of diversity for any organism smaller than 2 mm, under the simple observation that microscopic organisms such as protists seem to be cosmopolitan, at least in habitats that support their growth. Since its recent resurgence, this topic became hotly debated, with evidence apparently supporting and denying the hypothesis. Until very recently the EisE hypothesis was effectively untestable because of the constraints in analyzing microbial communities, especially for those organisms that are unculturable and/or difficult to identify by conventional (e.g. morphological) methods. Plus, of course, there is an acute shortage of taxonomic expertise for many groups. Modern molecular-based techniques may circumvent many of these problems and allow significantly a higher throughput of samples thereby increasing the quality and quantity of data. Such techniques are now being used to inform the debate around microbial biodiversity and biogeography. The symposium will provide an opportunity to review how far we have come and in which direction efforts might best be directed in the future. Preliminary list of speakers Diego Fontaneto: body size and biogeography David Bass: Spatial patterns in protist distribution. David Williams: are there endemic species in small organisms? Mark Blaxter: spatial patterns in small animals, a morphological and phylogenetic approach. Wilhelm Foissner: possible reasons for protist endemism, with examples from bromeliads and floodplains. David Jenkins: underlying biological mechanisms. Luc De Meester: spatial scales, dispersal, and metacommunity dynamics. Joaquin Hortal: species concepts, theoretical and experimental biogeography and ecology. For more information: diego.fontan...@nrm.se
[ECOLOG-L] Vegetation monitoing and error estimates
Hi, I am currently setting up a number of permanent sampling plots in a fenced-off wildife reserve, in a effort to measure the impacts of a growing population of african elephants on the woody vegetation (miombo woodland). I am having trouble estimating 1) sampling error i.e. number and selection of plots to represent the area of interest 2) Measurement error —e.g. errors in field measurements of tree diameter, height and canopy. Would anyone have advice fr me or be able to recommend a good website? Thanks in advance, Regards Carole On Fri, Mar 20, 2009 at 4:39 PM, Wayne Tyson landr...@cox.net wrote: Ecolog Forum: What do you not know about ecology that you would most like to know, either in your specific field or in general? WT -- Malcolm L. McCallum Associate Professor of Biology Texas AM University-Texarkana Editor, Herpetological Conservation and Biology http://www.herpconbio.org Fall Teaching Schedule Office Hours: Ecology: M,W 1-2:40 pm Cell Biology: M 6-9:40 pm (don't ask!) Forensic Science: T,R 10-11:40am Office Hours: MW 12-1, 5-6, TR 11:40-12:30, 1880's: There's lots of good fish in the sea W.S. Gilbert 1990's: Many fish stocks depleted due to overfishing, habitat loss, and pollution. 2000: Marine reserves, ecosystem restoration, and pollution reduction MAY help restore populations. 2022: Soylent Green is People! Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. _ News, entertainment and everything you care about at Live.com. Get it now! http://www.live.com/getstarted.aspx
[ECOLOG-L] PhD Assistantship: Plant water relations of loblolly pine-switch grass bioenergy plantations
A PhD assistantship ($19,000/yr for 3 yrs) is available immediately in the lab of Dr. John King in the Dept. of Forestry and Environmental Resources at North Carolina State University. Project: Plant water relations of loblolly pine- switch grass bioenergy plantations Conduct research on plant water relations of loblolly pine-switch grass bioenergy plantations. The work will be conducted in collaboration with scientists of Weyerhauser Corporation at a field site on their ownership in the lower coastal plain of North Carolina. The research will consist of measurements of physiology (photosynthesis, stomatal conductance), plant water potential and hydraulic conductivity, understory evapotranspiration, sap flow, and plant-soil water relations. The successful candidate will have a background in plant physiology, forestry, ecology, or related field, be willing to perform field work and help maintain the experiment, and have a solid work ethic. Interested persons should contact Dr. John S. King (john_k...@ncsu.edu) with technical questions and may learn about our graduate program and application procedure at the department web site (http://cnr.ncsu.edu/fer/grads/index.php).
[ECOLOG-L] Open Positions at the Institute of Environmental Sciences, University of Zurich, Switzerland
Dear all, find below three PhD and one Postdoc positions at the Institute of Environmental Sciences (University of Zurich, Switzerland) in the groups around Andy Hector and Lindsay Turnbull. Please spread the word about it. Many thanks Maja Weilenmann Post-doctoral Position Institute of Environmental Sciences, University of Zurich Modelling Growth of Tropical Tree Seedlings This project will use modern modelling approaches (mechanistic process models, maximum likelihood and MCMC estimation) to analyse several existing datasets on the growth and survival of tropical tree seedlings from Bornean rainforests. How do plants grow? How do they allocate photosynthate to different structures such as leaves, stems, roots and flowers in different environments, and how do they make such decisions? These are the type of questions we are interested in. We are looking for an experienced and well-motivated person to join our team of students and post-docs working on plant growth. Applicants need to hold a relevant PhD and be experienced with computer programming and statistical modelling (particularly using C and R). A background in statistics and some knowledge of plant ecology is also desirable. The project is a collaboration between the groups of Andy Hector, Lindsay Turnbull (http://www.uzh.ch/uwinst/) and Drew Purves (Microsoft Research, Cambridge, U.K. Key reference: Turnbull, L. A., Paul-Victor, C., Schmid, B. Purves, D. W. (2008) Ecology, 89, 1352. Start data: From April 2009. Working language: English Salary: Up to approx. 94,000 CHF. Please send a short relevant electronic CV and application letter to wei...@uwinst.uzh.ch entitled: YourNameCV.ext. 2 PhD Positions, Institute of Environmental Sciences, University of Zurich: Structure and Functioning of Forest Ecosystems We are looking for well-motivated candidates for PhD projects on the diversity, stability and functioning of forest ecosystems. The projects will extend work on the relationship between diversity and functioning of ecosystem in grasslands (http://www.uzh.ch/uwinst/) to forest ecosystems. One project will be associated with the Sabah Biodiversity Experiment in Malaysian Borneo (experience of tropical would be advantageous) and the other project will work with data from temperate forests. Applicants need to hold a relevant Honours or (preferably) Masters degree. You should have a good background in ecology and experience of the relevant forest ecosystems would be advantageous. The project will require knowledge of statistics and programming (particularly using R and C). The projects are collaborations between the groups of Andy Hector, Lindsay Turnbull at the University of Zurich (http://www.uzh.ch/uwinst/) and external groups, particularly Drew Purves at Microsoft Research, Cambridge, U.K. Start data: From April 2009. Working language: English Salary: 40 - 45,000 CHF. Please send a short relevant electronic CV and application letter to wei...@uwinst.uzh.ch entitled: YourNameCV.ext. PhD Position, Institute of Environmental Sciences, University of Zurich: Data-Constrained Plant Growth Modelling How do plants grow? How do they allocate photosynthate to different structures such as leaves, roots and flowers in different environments, and how do they make such decisions? This project seeks to understand plant growth with the simplest possible assumptions and will use extensive data sets and modelling to approach this problem from an entirely new angle. The project will involve extensive computer modelling including both simulations and fitting models directly to data. The project may also include new data collection depending on the interests and aptitudes of the successful candidate. We are looking for a well-motivated person to conduct this research, culminating in a PhD from the University of Zurich, Switzerland. Applicants need to hold a good, relevant first degree and have some experience with computer modelling. They must also be able to work in a team with other students and post-docs. A background in statistics and some knowledge of plant ecology is also desirable. The project is funded by Microsoft Research, UK and the successful candidate will receive extensive help and technical support from this source. The project will be based in Zurich, where the successful candidate will be expected to live. The project is co-supervised by Dr. Lindsay Turnbull (University of Zurich) and Dr. Drew Purves (Microsoft Research, UK) and requires an immediate start. Key reference: Turnbull, L. A., Paul-Victor, C., Schmid, B. Purves, D. W. (2008) Ecology, 89, 1352. Working language: English Salary: 40 - 45,000 CHF. Please send your CV and application to: linds...@uwinst.uzh.ch. Please label your attached CV file: CV.applicant.name.doc ++ Maja Weilenmann Verwaltungsassistentin Institut für Umweltwissenschaften Universität Zürich
[ECOLOG-L] Associate Engineer Position for Dept of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology and Biosphere 2
The Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology and Biosphere 2 seek a creative engineer with background in design, construction, deployment and maintenance of robust automated field instrumentation. This position will provide self-starting individuals with opportunity to manage instrumentation projects and collaborate with research scientists using the instrumentation for research. The initial project is to support deployment of a new optical spectrometer (using Quantum Cascade Lasers, QCL) for measurements of isotopic composition of atmospheric CO2. Deployment includes field sites (at Harvard forest, Massachusetts , and possibly in the Amazon of Brazil), and within the University of Arizona s Biosphere 2, the unique enclosed ecosystem facility outside of Tucson , AZ. Candidates should have training and experience in mechanical, civil, or electrical engineering, and familiarity with software packages used in computer-aided design, data acquisition, and in data analysis. Relevant experience includes pressure and flow control, thermal management, electronics, and optics. Additional background in measurement of isotope ratios in gases or materials (including design of calibration to maintain traceable high-accuracy), or of biosphere-atmosphere fluxes, is a strong plus. The position is based at the University of Arizona , but involves time near Boston , MA for deployment of a QCL system at Harvard Forest (collaborating with scientists at Aerodyne Research, and at Harvard University s laboratory for atmospheric chemistry). Subsequent work focuses on instrumentation for Biosphere 2. Competitive salary and benefits are provided; the University of Arizona is an equal-opportunity employer. Anticipated start date: Summer 2009 To apply, please review job number 41142 on the UA Career Track at www.uacareertrack.com For more information on this project, see: http://eebweb.arizona.edu/faculty/saleska/research.htm (Prof. Saleska group), http://www.b2science.org/ (Biosphere 2)
[ECOLOG-L] NTFP/Sustainable Palm Management Postdoc
Postdoc in Palm Ecology, Conservation, and Sustainable Management San Diego Zoo’s Institute for Conservation Research seeks a postdoctoral fellow (with funding up to five years) interested in the sustainable use and management of wild palm populations. The position will focus on three harvested palm species (Chamaedorea, Brahea, and Astrocaryum spp.) to better understand how palms respond to leaf harvest and to develop best management practices and certification protocols. Activities will include demographic studies, manipulative experiments, research on palm-wildlife interactions, and modeling, in addition to reforestation, restoration, and other community-based conservation activities. Field work will occur at multiple study sites in Mexico and Peru. The successful candidate will have a PhD in a related field and must be fluent in English and Spanish. Candidates should have experience in plant population ecology and demographic analyses; ability to collaborate and work with others across disciplines and cultures; knowledge and experience in community-based conservation, a strong commitment to applied conservation research; and the ability to work in challenging field conditions. Additionally, personnel-management, organization, data analysis, and communications skills are highly desirable. Starting date: August 2009 (preferred). Funding is available for five years, though the Fellow is expected to write additional grants for project support. To apply: Send a letter describing your interests and experience, CV, three letters of recommendation (emailed separately), and any relevant publications to: Bryan Endress, Division Head, Applied Plant Ecology, San Diego Zoo’s Institute for Conservation Research, 15600 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, CA 92027. Electronic applications (PDF/Word documents) are preferred: email to: bendr...@sandiegozoo.org. Please visit http://www.sandiegozoo.org/conservation/ for more information about San Diego Zoo’s Institute for Conservation Research. Please contact Bryan Endress (email above) for any questions. Application Deadline May 10, 2009.
[ECOLOG-L] undergraduate field course in aquatic macroivertebrates at the University of Tennessee at Martin
The University of Tennessee at Martin is offering a field course on the aquatic macroivertebrates of Reelfoot Lake and surrounding aquatic environments. This is an introductory course covering structure, classification, ecology, and identification. The course involves field work and physical activity. It will be taught at the Reelfoot Lake Research and Teaching Station in Samburg, TN (approximately 35 miles west of Martin, TN). The course runs from May 11 - May 29 and meets Monday-Friday from 9 - 3. On-site housing will be provided. Costs: In-State (including Hickman, Fulton, and Graves Counties,KY) = $663 + food Out-of-State = $ 1,995 + food For more information about this course, please contact Dr. Tom Blanchard at tbla...@utm.edu or call (731) 881-7594
[ECOLOG-L] PhD Assistantship: Developing short-rotation cropping systems for bioenergy plantations
A PhD assistantship ($22,000/yr) is available immediately in the lab of Dr. John King in the Dept. of Forestry and Environmental Resources at North Carolina State University. Project: Developing short-rotation cropping systems for bioenergy plantations. Conduct research on the development of short-rotation cropping systems for bioenergy plantations. The work will be conducted at two field labs in the piedmont and lower coastal plain physiogeographic regions of North Carolina. The research will consist of testing a variety of early successional, rapidly growing tree species such as sweetgum, yellow poplar, cottonwood, red maple and others for potential as bioenergy crops and determining the best silvicultural systems for short-rotation cropping. Emphasis will be placed on quantifying aboveground and belowground productivity and the environmental consequences of intensive, short rotation cropping for soil nutrients, carbon, and water. The successful candidate will have a background in plant physiology, forestry, ecology, or related field, be willing to perform fieldwork and help maintain the experiment, and have a solid work ethic. Interested persons should contact Dr. John S. King (john_k...@ncsu.edu) with technical questions and may learn about our graduate program and application procedure at teh department website (http://cnr.ncsu.edu/fer/grads/index.php).
[ECOLOG-L] Experienced Bird Bander Needed in Yosemite NP!
EXPERIENCED BIRD BANDER needed for the Monitoring Avian Productivity and Survivorship (MAPS) Program. The Institute for Bird Populations (IBP) is seeking an experienced bird bander to operate constant effort mist-netting and banding stations at Yosemite National Park, California from May 1 to August 8, 2009. Join this continent-wide, long-term effort to monitor the vital rates that cause changes in North American landbird populations. We are looking for an enthusiastic, self-motivated individual with some experience collecting data independently in the field and a solid background in mistnetting, bird banding, and ageing and sexing landbirds using plumage characteristics. We particularly encourage previous MAPS interns to apply. The successful applicant will be expected to learn the MAPS protocol during an intensive training session in Oregon beginning May 1, will join a 4-person crew at Yosemite for the remainder of the season operating 6 MAPS stations, and will occasionally serve as lead bander when the MAPS biologist cannot be present. A free campsite will be provided in addition to a per diem of $33 for 84 days in the field, totaling $2,772 for the season. A personal vehicle is not strictly required, but is a plus; mileage will be reimbursed at $0.35/mile for project-related use. The position entails spending a minimum of 6 of every 10 days in the field, depending on weather and logistical considerations. This volunteer position could potentially lead to a paid MAPS field biologist position with IBP during subsequent seasons. Interested applicants should send via email (preferred) or U.S. mail a cover letter, resume, and current contact information for three references, as well as complete and submit the MAPS Internship Application Form. The Application Form and further information can be found on our website, www.birdpop.org, or contact MARY CHAMBERS, The Institute for Bird Populations, PO Box 1346, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956. FAX 415-663-9482, PH 415-663-1436, EMAIL: mchamb...@birdpop.org. Position will be filled when a qualified candidate is found.
[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Opportunities in Experimental Plant Community Ecology/Restoration
Graduate Opportunities in Experimental Plant Community Ecology/ Restoration Graduate Assistantships (Masters or PhD level) are available in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Kansas. We are seeking highly motivated students interested in experimental community ecology, grassland biodiversity and prairie/savanna restoration. Research opportunities exist within the context of an NSF-funded study testing alternative models of plant community assembly and using grasslands as a model study system. Students will be encouraged to develop research projects related to one or more of the following themes: community assembly, plant succession, species coexistence and biodiversity, disturbance ecology, biological invasions, ecosystem restoration, effects of climate change. Successful applicants are guaranteed financial support (2 years for Masters, 5 years for PhD). The department also provides support for travel to attend and present results at national and international meetings. Additional funds to support graduate student research are available through the departmental endowment. Positions are available for either August 2009 or January 2010 start dates. For more information please contact: Bryan Foster Associate Professor Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas 66045-2106 785-864-4361, bfos...@ku.edu http://www2.ku.edu/~eeb/faculty/foster.shtml
[ECOLOG-L] NAAEE Contacts!
Hello, The reason why we are sending this email is that here in NAAEE we are updating the contacts information database and we want to add you to our contact list, so that way we can stay in contact and share environmental information. We just want to know who can be the person to contact in case we wanted to invite you, send you some information, or tell you something related to the environment, if you can write us back and tell us who can be that person we will appreciate it. In addition, if you have a list of contacts who are interested in the environment we will appreciate it if you can forward the info we will send you as well if you want us to do the same with our list just let us know. Take a look to our site www.naaee.org http://www.naaee.org/ Regards PS. If you all ready got and answered this email, please accept our apologize. - Lucio Lastra Ortiz Legislative Intern NAAEE 2000 P Street, NW Suite 540 Washington, DC 20036 (202) 419-0412 (Phone) (202) 419-0415 (Fax) lu...@naaee.org
[ECOLOG-L] Final Call, 15th International Interdisciplinary Conference on the Environment
FINAL CALL FOR PAPERS and POSTERS THE 15TH INTERNATIONAL INTERDISCIPLINARY CONFERENCE ON THE ENVIRONMENT JULY 8-11, 2009 THE SHORES HOTEL DAYTONA BEACH, FLORIDA USA Abstract Deadline: April 3, 2009 The Interdisciplinary Environmental Association, committed to an interdisciplinary approach to environmental issues, is accepting submissions of papers and posters for the 2009 conference. We welcome research that crosses the boundaries of traditional disciplines to frame environmental problems, propose working models, or address field, community, or academic issues. While any interdisciplinary environmental topic is welcome, areas of special interest in 2009 include: * Coastal Resource Impacts and Management * Environmental Ethics * Regional Water Resources and Pollution Issues * Environmental Impacts of Tourism * Climate Change and Coastal Areas * Creative Visions of the Changing Landscape * The Economics of Sustainability * SPECIAL TOPIC: Accreditation of Environmental Programs For further information or to submit an abstract contact Dr. Kimberly Reiter, Conference Chair, at krei...@stetson.edu, or go to http://www.ieaonline.org. Mike --- Michael A. Reiter, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Environmental Science Bethune-Cookman University 640 Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Blvd. Daytona Beach, FL 32114-3099 V: (386) 481-2695 F: (386) 481-2662 http://www4.cookman.edu/faculty/reiter/index.html reit...@cookman.edu Accuse not Nature, she hath done her part; Do thou but thine. John Milton, Paradise Lost
[ECOLOG-L] Six M.Sc. Assistantship available at Arkansas-Pine Bluff
M.Sc. Graduate Research Assistantships (6 positions available) Aquaculture/Fisheries Center University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff -- 1. Economics of Year-Round Production of Hybrid Striped Bass Fingerlings Hybrid striped bass growers would benefit from year-round availability of the appropriate size of hybrid striped bass fingerlings. Indoor tank systems have been used to raise hybrid striped bass fingerlings, but the costs and risks have not been evaluated nor compared to pond production costs and risks. The graduate student would work with hybrid striped bass growers and researchers at the Stuttgart National Aquaculture Research Station to assemble a database from which costs and returns would be estimated related to production of hybrid striped bass in ponds and tanks. Mixed integer mathematical programming models of hybrid striped bass fingerling production will be developed to assess the farm-level trade-offs associated with alternative technologies to produce hybrid striped bass fingerlings year-round. Admission requires a B.S. degree in aquaculture, fisheries, agricultural economics, or a related field, a minimum GPA (last 2 years) of 3.0 and GRE score of 1,000 (verbal + quantitative). Applications will be considered until a candidate is selected (proposed starting date August 1, 2008). To apply, complete graduate application materials and assistantship application forms (www.uaex.edu/aqfi) and send to: Dr. Carole Engle Aquaculture/Fisheries Center, UAPB 1200 N. University Drive Mail Slot 4912 Pine Bluff, AR 71601 TEL: 870 575-8523 cen...@uaex.edu (for questions only; hard copy applications required). 2. Optimal Feeding Strategies of Channel Catfish for Cool Weather Feeding Description: While a number of winter feeding studies have been conducted on channel catfish over the years, there is a clear lack of understanding of the optimal feeding strategies for cool weather feeding. The successful applicant for this position will prepare a specific research proposal upon arriving on campus describing thesis research in the area of catfish physiology. Specifically, the student will examine winter feeding practices in channel catfish and gather data that evaluate endocrine amp; metabolic responses to experimental winter-feeding protocols and link these indices to production parameters collected from catfish ponds. A mixture of laboratory and field responsibilities will serve students with an interest to apply basic biology principles in an applied aquaculture setting. Qualifications: B.S. in aquaculture, fisheries, biology, or related field, minimum GPA of 3.0, and GRE score of 1,000+ (verbal + quantitative) are required for regular admission. Minimum TOEFL score of 550 for international students. Strong writing skills and computer proficiency are required. Demonstrated experiences with maintenance of animals/livestock, familiarity with aquaculture, analytical laboratory experience, and basic plumbing and construction skills are all desirable qualifications. Stipend: (Year 1 $17,800; Year 2 $18,800). Closing Date: Applications will be considered until a candidate is selected. Descriptions of application procedures and necessary forms can be found at the UAPB Aquaculture/Fisheries Center website, http://www.uaex.edu/aqfi/ . For further information on this specific opportunity please contact: Alf H. Haukenes Aquaculture/Fisheries Center 1200 N. University Drive, Mail Slot 4912 University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff Pine Bluff, AR 71601 Email: ahauke...@uaex.edu Phone: 870-575-8105 3. Controlling Copepod Populations for Water Reuse Freshwater supplies in the US have seen tremendous declines over the last several decades. Consequently, water used for aquaculture purposes will need to be reused in the near future. However, water reused in ponds needs to be free of larval fish predators, intermediate disease hosts, as well as disease organisms. Investigating methods to control cyclopoid copepods, known larval fish predators, in water destined for reuse is essential. Several aquaculture ponds throughout Arkansas will be monitored over a production cycle to determine copepod population cycles. Toxicity tests to several compounds will be tested to determine methods of control. Responsibilities: The successful applicant will conduct her/his M.S. degree research on cyclopoid copepod population dynamics and the toxicity of various chemicals to them. Qualifications: B.S. in aquaculture, fisheries, or related field, minimum GPA of 3.0, and GRE score of 1,000+ (verbal + quantitative). Minimum TOEFL score of 500 for international students. The student needs to enjoy the combination of field and laboratory work. Salary: Year 1 $17,800; Year 2 $18,800. Closing Date: Applications will be considered until a candidate is selected. Contact: Please complete graduate application materials and assistantship application forms
[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship, Microbial Ecology, Antarctica
A graduate research assistantship is available for a highly qualified student at Montana State University. The successful applicant will be involved in an NSF-funded project that examines microbial communities and dissolved organic matter in the Transantarctic Mountains and McMurdo Dry Valleys of Antarctica. The student will be based at MSU, but will collaborate with students and PIs at the University of Colorado-Boulder (McKnight) and The Ohio State University (Chin). Field work will be conducted in Antarctica. Ph.D. students are preferred, but M.S. students may apply. The assistantship includes a stipend, tuition, health insurance and expenses for research. Interested applicants should contact Dr. Christine Foreman (cfore...@montana.edu) and send a letter of interest (prior accomplishments, research experience and interests, future career goals), a CV, transcripts, and GRE scores. Details about the graduate program at Montana State University can be found through the Department of Land Resources and Environmental Sciences (http://landresources.montana.edu), and the graduate school (http://www.montana.edu/wwwdg/). Start date is summer/fall 2009. Founded in 1893 in the scenic Gallatin Valley just north of Yellowstone National Park, Montana State University has a total enrollment of 12,000 students, including ~ 1,200 graduate students. MSU is recognized as one of 94 U.S. research universities representing the top tier of the Carnegie Foundation rankings. Research funding currently exceeds $100 million annually and has been growing steadily. For more information see the MSU website at http://www.montana.edu. Named an All-American City, Bozeman is an attractive, culturally alive city located in the northern Rocky Mountain region. The 70,000 residents of Bozeman and nearby communities enjoy excellent schools, diversified medical facilities, a vibrant cultural and arts scene, and one of the most superb year-round recreational areas in the nation, including two world-class ski areas, blue ribbon trout fishing streams and the Gallatin National Forest.
[ECOLOG-L] Global Garlic Mustard Field Survey
Dear Colleagues, I would like to draw your attention to a new project on garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata), that will be of interest to educators, conservation groups, resource managers and citizen scientists. The project is an international collaboration aimed at obtaining much-needed data on the abundance and distribution of an invasive plant across its native and introduced ranges. Surprisingly, there are no standardized, global survey data for any invasive plant species! Our vision is that this collaborative effort will include a large contribution at the grass-roots level by individuals and groups interested in contributing to a large scientific study on invasive species. We have developed a basic sampling protocol that can be incorporated into field courses, surveys, or perhaps implemented into control efforts, by sampling prior to removal of the plant in late summer. The sampling protocol, along with contact information is available at the following website: http://invasionsrcn.org/portal/activities/alliaria-sampling/AlliariaProject_Feb2009.pdf/view Please forward this email to anyone who might be interested in participating. Thanks in advance. Sincerely, Rob Colautti Ph.D. Candidate Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology University of Toronto
[ECOLOG-L] MS and/or PhD Assistantships Biomass Energy and Earth Observation North Dakota
MS or PhD Assistantships are available for the following projects in the Department of Earth System Science and Policy at the University of North Dakota. Applications are encouraged from students with a background and interests in geography, agronomy, remote sensing, and ecology. An interest in learning, or existing skill with, quantitative analysis and crop modeling knowledge would be an advantage. 1. Identifying and Mapping Potential Land for Switchgrass Production in North Dakota. Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) is a potential renewable bioenergy crop for the Northern Great Plains regions. The adoption of switchgrass into the traditional cropping system depends on its productivity and economic returns for producers. Economic benefits depend, in part, on the sustained break-even yield of switchgrass, i.e., sustained yield threshold below which switchgrass is not economically competitive with other crop species in much of the Northern Great Plains. This yield threshold is site specific and depends on agrometeorological parameters, such as maximum or minimum temperature, precipitation, and growing degree days, soil types and characteristics, as well as crop management practices, and other economic and societal factors. This research seek to assess the suitability for switchgrass in North Dakota taking into account the potential productivity, tradeoff with crops and environmental limitations. It involves the use of GIS processing, decision tree classification, and transformation of regional economic and social scenarios into decision tree methods. Some knowledge of crop/grass physiology will be an advantage. 2. Spectral Characterization of Switchgrass for biomass energy and biofuel quality. Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) has been identified as one of the herbaceous crop that could be grown specifically for bioenergy supply. When grown for energy purposes switchgrass management practices must take into account both, biomass production and biofuel quality. Monitoring switchgrass and acquiring information about its growth throughout the growing season is important to optimize crop management or get information on biofuel quality. Crop growth models such as ALMANAC are good tools to diagnose switchgrass growing conditions, support management decisions, or predict yield over large areas. However, there is a need to develop rapid and non destructive methods, with no or few spatial and temporal limitations, that will provide real-time information on switchgrass biomass and biofuel quality throughout the cultural cycle over large areas. This project seek to investigate remote sensing of switchgrass physiology and biochemistry for assessment of plant development and biofuel value to be used as potential crop growth model input - i./e. hyperspectral remote sensing to assess levels of cellulose/lignin/fibre etc with a view to assessing optimum harvest time and fuel value. The student will be undertaking substantial field measurements, image processing, and use of crop growth model such as ALMANAC. Knowledge of crop/grass physiology will be an advantage. These projects can be tailored to MS or PhD program requirements. All students entering the ESSP Program are required to take the compulsory 20 credit ESSP 501 and ESSP 502 courses in the first two semesters. These courses cover the basics of broad earth system science including the Biosphere and Biodiversity, Energy, Environment and Society, the Geosphere and Earth Observation, the Water Cycle and Hydrology, and Biogeochemical Cycles. Information on the Earth System Science and Policy Program is available at: http://www.essp.und.edu/Default.aspx Applications will be considered until June 1, 2009. Students must meet the requirements for GRE, GPA, TOEFL standards (appropriate to MS or PhD) and meet all the requirements of the Graduate School of the University of North Dakota. A 12 - month GRA and full tuition waiver are available for each of these positions. Long term availability is subject to funding. PhD students are expected to write a grant to support their work as part of the process of proposing their dissertation topic. Interested students should contact Dr. Laguette directly at the address given below to discuss the projects. Applications must be made directly to the UND Graduate School (http://www.und.edu/dept/grad/). Soizik Laguette, Ph.D. Associate Professor and Chair University of North Dakota Department of Earth System Science and Policy Clifford Hall, Stop 9011 Grand Forks, ND 58202-9011 Phone: 701-777-2532 Fax: 701-777-2940 E-mail: lague...@aero.und.edu
[ECOLOG-L] Midwest Oak Savanna and Woodland Conference
Please post: CALL FOR PAPERS AND POSTERS! Midwest Oak Savanna and Woodland Conference '09 July 29-Aug 1 (Wednesday-Saturday) Lourdes College, Sylvania, Ohio Abstract Deadline: May 1, 2009 The mission of this conference is to promote conservation-based research, planning, management, and education focused on protecting, enhancing, and restoring oak savannas and woodlands in the Midwest. Academics, land stewards, and the conservation community are invited to offer informative presentations and research on oak savanna and woodland ecosystems. During the 1990’s, conferences emphasized development of recovery plans for fragmented oak savanna habitats. Take this opportunity to review those plans’ successes and the lessons learned. We also hope to look forward: Updates, new plans, and the future of savannas and woodlands in the face of invasives and climate change. Educating the human community that inhabits and uses natural communities is also essential to minimizing the loss and degradation these important ecosystems. An interactive educational track is planned for primary and secondary educators and community organizations that provide public programs. Featured speakers include: Dr. Roger Anderson, Illinois State University (Science Keynote); Scott Weidensaul, writer and environmentalist (author of Return to Wild America); and William Stanley, Director of ! Ohio Chapter of The Nature Conservancy. For more information: http://www.aeoned.org/oakcon/ or email: mo...@bex.net To submit a talk or poster: http://www.aeoned.org/oakcon/callforproposals/ Don’t miss this opportunity to reconnect with established colleagues and meet new people working on these invaluable ecosystems!
[ECOLOG-L] Gray Whale Research - Internship Opportunities, May-June 2009!
SEACR MARINE RESEARCH INTERNSHIPS SUMMER 2009 Gain Valuable Field Experience Working on Scientific Research Projects With Gray Whales This Summer May June!!! The Society for Ecological and Coastal Research - SEACR - is a non-profit organization, established in 1998, dedicated to scientific research on the ecology of nearshore marine systems. SEACR is sponsoring several longterm ongoing research projects on gray whale ecology in Clayoquot Sound, British Columbia, Canada. The projects are organized and run by the Whale Research Lab of the University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. http://www.geog.uvic.ca/whalelab/ INTERNSHIPS (to apply, see link: http://www.geog.uvic.ca/whalelab/seacr-application.html) Enthusiastic individuals with a keen interest in nature and science are invited to discover the challenges of marine field research along Canada's coastal rainforest through SEACR's Marine Research Intern Program! MRIP is a volunteer program where Research Interns assist experienced and dedicated marine biologists and ecologists with their field research. Through MRIP, Research Interns will live and work at a remote research field-station in the coastal rainforest of Clayoquot Sound, British Columbia, to aid researchers with ongoing field research related to coastal and marine ecology. Internships are offered on a competitive basis, at cost and provide invaluable exposure to boat based field work, the Pacific coastal ocean environment, marine mammal research, intensive training and mentoring in marine ecology, and encouragement to work and play hard! We are offering 2 or 4 week Marine Research Internships for May and June 2009. There is no deadline to apply. However, approved applications are reviewed and accepted on a first-come, first serve basis. QUALIFICATIONS This internship is an excellent opportunity for an individual working toward a career in marine science to gain practical experience in the field. Ideal candidates possess a personal interest in marine ecology and a commitment to conservation research. Marine research is difficult and challenging work, so being a Research Intern is not for everyone! Those who wish to participate in MRIP must be in good physical health, especially free of back and leg injuries, as the field hours (in the boat and in the lab) can be long - though very satisfying! This is not a program that certifies individuals in field research. It is, however, an experience that delivers a unique opportunity for education, development of field ecology research skills, travel, and enjoyment of wildlife. THE RESEARCH ENVIRONMENT Flores Island is the home of the Ahousaht First Nations peoples and is nestled in world-famous Clayoquot Sound, in the Pacific Coast rainforest. Flores is an excellent place to learn about marine ecology and the study of nature. Along with learning field and technical skills during the course of work, when the opportunity arises Research Interns may engage in informal talks with graduate students, take hikes along the Wild Side Trail, have beach campfires, and interact with the Ahousaht First Nations peoples. Professors from the University of Victoria, local scientists and previous MRIP researchers will be frequent visitors to the field research station. Flores Island's natural beauty, sandy beaches, and abundant wildlife will keep you enthralled. Being here is the experience of a lifetime. APPLICATION PROCESS COSTS To qualify as a candidate for the MRIP, see the preaplication process on our website: http://www.geog.uvic.ca/whalelab/seacr-application.html Unlike many other volunteer internship opportunities, SEACR provides and organizes the room and board for our interns at cost. The internship package includes basic accommodations and three meals per day at the research station. Interns and research staff live together and are responsible for cooking and cleaning duties. Rooms are shared with at least one other person. The internship costs do not include transportation to and from the research camp on Flores Island, personal items, or special dietary requirements. A non-refundable $500 deposit is required upon acceptance to MRIP. Two week Internship - $ 2000 Cdn Four week Internship - $ 3000 Cdn If you are interested in applying for a position, please see the details of our application process on our website http://www.geog.uvic.ca/whalelab/seacr-application.html Questions regarding the MRIP application or internships can be directed by email to: whale...@mail.geog.uvic.ca Society for Ecological and Coastal Research P.O. Box 35052 Victoria, British Columbia CANADA V8T 5G2 whale...@mail.geog.uvic.ca
