[ECOLOG-L] Methods in Ecology and Evolution Launch Symposium

2010-03-18 Thread Graziella Iossa
Dear EcoLog user,

Just one month before Methods in Ecology and Evolution Launch Symposium, a 
one-day symposium to mark the launch of MEE, the new journal of the British 
Ecological Society. The symposium will take place on April 22 2010 at Charles 
Darwin House, the new BES office. We have an excellent line-up of speakers, 
please see the website below.

Registration and further particulars are available online at 
http://www.methodsinecologyandevolution.org/view/0/launchsymposium.html
There are spaces left but register soon as we are restricted to 120 delegates.

We look forward to meeting you there,
Graziella Iossa and Rob Freckleton

---
Dr Graziella Iossa

Journal Coordinator
Methods in Ecology and Evolution

Tel. +44(0)207 685 2518
Fax +44(0)207 685 2501
Email coordina...@methodsinecologyandevolution.org
Web http://www.methodsinecologyandevolution.org/
Submit to MEE http://mc.manuscriptcentral.com/mee-besjournals 
MEE Launch Symposium - 22 April 2010, book online: 
http://www.britishecologicalsociety.org/journals_publications/methodsinecologyandevolution/booking.php

Think before you print...



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[ECOLOG-L] postdoctoral position in community/evolutionary ecology

2010-03-18 Thread nicolas loeuille
Dear colleagues,

Please find below the description of a postdoctoral position open in my lab.

Sincerely

Nicolas Loeuille

*Postdoctoral position in community/evolutionary ecology*

A postdoctoral position is open within the Ecology and Evolution
Laboratory at the University Pierre et Marie Curie (Paris, France).

The postdoctoral position is focused on the understanding of how
plant-herbivore coevolution affects community structure, at local and larger
scales. Theoretical models will be developed, based on key plant traits
(such as defense and tolerance) and herbivore generalism. The project
involves collaborations with the Plant Science Center (Umea, Sweden) and the
BIOEMCO laboratory (Paris) that will allow comparisons of the theoretical
results with relevant empirical data sets.

Candidates should have a strong background in theoretical ecology,
mathematics and modelling. Net salary ranges from 2000 to 2450 euros
depending on the experience of the candidate. Contract is for one year,
though funding for a second year will be sought to develop the project
further. The postdoctoral fellow will be based at the University Pierre 
Marie Curie (Paris) where the main contact will be Nicolas Loeuille (
nicolas.loeui...@gmail.com).

Requests concerning the scientific project and applications should be
directed to nicolas.loeui...@gmail.com. Applications should contain a CV
with a list of publications, a summary of research interests, and a cover
letter detailing the motivations for the proposed project. Two
emails/letters of support should be sent separately.

starting date: between now and the end of 2010.
deadline for application: 20 april 2010.


-- 
-
http://www.nicolas-loeuille.com
fastest ways to reach me:
-mobile phone: +33-6-60-76-27-90
-email: nicolas.loeui...@normalesup.org
-skype: nicolasloeuille
-gtalk:nicolas.loeuille

Nicolas Loeuille
Universite Paris 6
Laboratoire d'ecologie, UMR 7625
Batiment A, 7eme etage, case 237
7 quai st bernard 75252 Paris Cedex 05
France
Phone: +33-1-44-27-36-10
Fax : (+33)1 44 27 35 16
--


[ECOLOG-L] Biosphere 2 REU Program Summer 2010

2010-03-18 Thread Mitchell Pavao-Zuckerman
The University of Arizona will be holding a 10-week Research Experiences for
Undergraduates (REU) program this summer in environmental and Earth system
sciences at Biosphere 2 (B2
http://www.b2science.org/earth/program-reu.html).  Students will participate
in a variety of activities that will help them pursue a career in
environmental sciences. Students will conduct their own research under a
mentor, interact with other participants and scientists, and present
research findings in a formal symposium setting.  A unique part of the B2
REU experience will be the opportunity to interact with the public who visit
B2 on tour and to obtain training in outreach related to their research
topics.  Additionally, students will participate in professional development
workshops, an ethics in science workshop, and field trips to local
attractions.  Students in their Sophomore or Junior years from a wide range
of disciplines and interests including biology, ecology, plant sciences,
hydrology, soil science, geology, atmospheric science, mathematics, physics,
chemistry, or computer science are encouraged to apply.  Only U.S. citizens
or permanent residents are eligible for this NSF funded program.
 
Research at Biosphere 2 aims to catalyze interdisciplinary thinking and
understanding about the Earth, its living systems, and its future. Students
in the REU program will conduct research in the Earth system and
environmental sciences that examines some facet of
soil-water-atmosphere-plant interactions.  Improving understanding of these
interactions is important in gaining insight into the impacts and causes of
global environmental change and variation.  Key to research at B2 is the use
of methods and techniques that allow linking across scales.  Additionally,
some REU projects will be conducted in partnership with the southwestern
Critical Zone Observatory (http://www.czo.arizona.edu/).  Projects will
focus on a variety of topics that include (but aren’t limited to): coupling
ecohydrology and biogeochemistry, investigating abiotic and biotic
contributions to ecosystem processes, integrating measurements across
scales, using innovative tools to link climate and ecological function, and
modeling of ecosystem and soil processes.

You will receive:
$5,000 stipend
Lodging at Biosphere 2’s student village
Food allowance
Travel to and from Tucson, AZ
 
Applications are due April 5 2010, and application material can be found at:
http://chubasco.hwr.arizona.edu/b2app/ 


Mitchell Pavao-Zuckerman
Biosphere 2
P.O. Box 210088
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ 85721-0088
mzucker...@arizona.edu


[ECOLOG-L] Communications Outreach Intern Opportunity

2010-03-18 Thread Meggan Dwyer
The Marine Environmental Research Institute (MERI) is recruiting a committed
and engaged intern to fill a Communications and Outreach  position for the
spring/summer of 2010. Located on the rocky coastline in Blue Hill, Maine,
MERI is a non-profit scientific research and education organization
dedicated to understanding the impacts of environmental pollutants on
wildlife and human health, and to interpreting this information for a broad
audience.



This is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience pitching media,
assisting in editorial coverage, writing, distributing press releases,
building contacts (media and government agencies), and enhancing your
graphic skills. The ideal candidate will have a background in environmental
journalism and communications and possess a personal interest in the marine
environment and human health.



*Job Description:*



·Assist the Director, Associate Director and development staff with
the implementation of MERI’s communications, outreach and development
strategies

· Assist in development, implementation and maintenance of the MERI
website, including writing and editing text, visual content, and designing
layout.

·Assist with preparation of publicity and marketing materials,
including flyers, advertisements, fact sheets and press releases, with a
particular focus on graphics.

·Organize and manage the MERI Image Library; serve as staff
photographer for programs and events.

·Update and organize email databases.

·Assist in operating the MERI audiovisual system for lectures and
events.

·Assist with day-to-day operation of the MERI Center, and with some
weekend and evening programs and events.

·Perform other duties as assigned by the Director or designee



*Reports to*:  Development Coordinator, Associate Director and Director



*Qualifications:*

Applicants should possess a BA or BS degree in environmental sciences,
journalism, communications or a related major (Juniors and Seniors may also
apply), and have prior workplace experience as well as good interpersonal
communications and writing skills. Applicants must be fluent in English.
Applicants must be able to adapt to a changing work environment, and at
times, be available to work nights, weekends, and holidays.  The ideal
candidate will be knowledgeable about presenting scientific and
environmental information to a diverse audience through different media.

Knowledge of computer software including the Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe
Photoshop, InDesign and other graphics software is required; photography and
graphics skills a definite plus. Must possess authorization to work in the
US, a valid drivers license and a good driving record.

*Time Requirements:*

This position requires a 6-month commitment (minimum) from approximately
April to October 2010 (start and end dates are somewhat flexible). Upon a
satisfactory review, the internship may be extended up to one year.
Full-time hours (40 hours/week); additional hours to be agreed upon by
intern and the Director.

*To Apply:*

If you are interested in applying for this position, please email a cover
letter, resume, writing sample and three references in pdf or doc format to:



Sarah Curts

scu...@meriresearch.org



No phone calls please


[ECOLOG-L] Orange-breasted Falcon Volunteer Hack Site Attendant-Belize

2010-03-18 Thread Angel Muela
ECOLOG-L Digest - 15 Mar 2010 to 16 Mar 2010 (#2010-71)The Peregrine Fund is a 
nonprofit organization working to conserve birds of prey and their habitats 
worldwide. Successful applicants will be provided with the rare opportunity to 
monitor and look after young Orange-breasted Falcons prior to and after they 
are released in the forests of Belize.   The release period will begin 
approximately in late June and will continue for eight to 12 weeks. This 
position will require working long, challenging hours. The short time in which 
the study can be completed and the remote location preclude time off. 
Applicants receiving positions will participate in a unique effort to restore 
Orange-breasted Falcons to their native habitat. The Peregrine Fund will 
provide hack site attendants with one spotting scope and one tripod that must 
be returned once the releases conclude. In addition, The Peregrine Fund will 
provide transportation between the base camp and the release site.

Specific Responsibilities

1. Monitor, feed, and ensure the well-being of young  Orange-breasted Falcons 
during the entire process of release
2. Communicate with Raptor Release Coordinator and local partners on a regular 
basis
3. Attendants must be able to read color-coded bands through a spotting scope
4. Keep detailed field notes of the falcons' behavior, movement patterns, 
interactions with other species, etc.

Compensation:

1. Accommodation and board will be provided
2. Appropriate recognition in scientific papers and personal references
3. Volunteer is expected to cover his/her travel costs, as well as to pay all 
his/her medical costs.  Proof of medical insurance in effect during the time 
period of the releases will be required
4. Great field experience and the opportunity to work in pristine Neotropical 
rainforest and reintroduce a rare species into the wild

Qualification : 
 
1. Biologist or biology student with basic Neotropical flora and fauna knowledge
2. Knowledge in raptor biology and ecology desirable
3. Willingness to live and work in remote, rugged areas with snakes, biting 
insects, etc.
4. Be in good health and capable of walking long distances in extreme weather 
conditions (heat, humidity, and rain)
5. Fluency in written and spoken English is desirable
6. Understanding of and commitment to The Peregrine Fund's mission and approach 
to raptor conservation

Please, send cover letter, resume, and names and contact information of three 
references, as well as availability  to:  Angel Muela- amu...@fondoperegrino.org


Angel Muela | Coordinador 
Programa de Liberación de Rapaces
Fondo Peregrino Panamá-The Peregrine Fund | +507 6617-0928
http://www.peregrinefund.org
Celebrating 40 years of conserving birds of prey worldwide


[ECOLOG-L] postdoc position

2010-03-18 Thread Karina VR Schafer
Rutgers University – Newark, NJ, Department of Biological Sciences


Postdoc position


 

to analyze and publish eddy covariance data, field experimentation setup and
maintenance.  

Research program: Uncertainties about the actual greenhouse emissions and
potential sink strengths especially of urban areas are largely unknown.
Therefore, measurements and subsequent evaluation of CO2 fluxes are of
crucial importance to estimate sink strengths of vegetation in and around
urban areas. The structure and function of the New Jersey Meadowland with
regards to its ecosystem service as a carbon sink needs yet to be determined
as it may represent a potentially underutilized CO2 sink that can be
enhanced with proper management strategies. Thus, CO2 sink strength of the
New Jersey Meadowlands will be investigated and assessed for management.

 

Tasks: analysis and modeling of eddy covariance data and experimental field
setup in order to assess CO2 sequestration of New Jersey wetlands and
grasslands. The results shall be published in peer reviewed journal and
potential extension of position is possible pending on funding solicited by
applicant. 

 

Requirements: Holding a PhD in environmental science or engineering, ecology
or related discipline with experience in eddy covariance data collection,
analysis and interpretation. Willing to travel and conduct field
experimental work.

 

The position is funded for 9 months with full benefits, starting
immediately. Extension upon externally solicited funding 

Please send a CV and application statement to 

 

Karina V.R. Schäfer, PhD

Ecosystem Ecologist

Department of Biological Sciences

195 University Ave

Rutgers University

Newark, NJ, 07102

U.S.A. 

or email to karin...@andromeda.rutgers.edu

 

 


[ECOLOG-L] Visiting Asst. Professor in Phys. Geogr. at Univ. at Albany, SUNY

2010-03-18 Thread Monika P Calef
The Department of Geography and Planning at the University at Albany
invites applications for a one-year VISITING ASSISTANT PROFESSOR
position for the 2010-11 academic year.  The successful candidate will
teach three courses per semester, including remote sensing at both an
introductory and an advanced level; an introductory physical geography
course; and at least one GIS course. Although this is primarily a
teaching position, the successful candidate is expected to participate
fully in the life of the department by attending meetings and serving on
committees. Candidates must have, or be very near completion of, a PhD
in Geography from a university accredited by the U.S. Department of
Education or internationally recognized accrediting organization.
Preference will be given to those with expertise in remote sensing, GIS
and the physical environment.  Applications will be accepted until the
position is filled. Salary commensurate with qualifications. 
To apply, send a cover letter, curriculum vitae, statements of teaching
and research interests, and arrange for three letters of reference to be
sent to:  Christopher J. Smith, Chair, Department of Geography and
Planning, AS 218, University at Albany, Albany, NY 1.  Applicants
must address in their applications their ability to work with and
instruct a culturally diverse population. Applications should refer to
search P10-AA. Email applications are accepted: cjsm...@albany.edu;
Website: http://www.albany.edu/gp. The University at Albany is an Equal
Opportunity, Affirmative Action, Immigration Reform and Control Act and
Americans with Disabilities employer.  Minorities and women are
especially encouraged to apply.  Federal regulations require notice to
all perspective employees with information on crimes that occurred on
campus. Please refer to the following website for complete details:
http://police.albany.edu/ASR.htm. 

Please do not respond to this email directly.



Dr. Monika Calef   ---   Assistant Professor

Dept. of Geography and Planning  and Dept. of Informatics

University at Albany, State University of New York (SUNY)   
Arts  Sciences Room 208  ---  1400 Washington Ave  ---  Albany, NY
1
Phone: (518) 591-8563  ---  Email: mca...@uamail.albany.edu


[ECOLOG-L] Colors in animals

2010-03-18 Thread Michael S. Batcher
Is there a standard set of colors, with color chips (as in soil colors) for
animals?  I was looking at a description of a bird and came across the color
buffy which just did not bring forth an image in my mind.  Google lead me
to Buffy the Vampire Slayer, which, while a fun show, was less than
illuminating. Can anyone give me some guidance on this?  Thanks in advance.

 

Michael S. Batcher, MS, AICP

Ecologist and Environmental Planner

1907 Buskirk-West Hoosick Rd.

Buskirk, NY 12028

 

Phone: (518) 686-5868

Cell: (518) 961-1923

 


[ECOLOG-L] NSF REU in Plant Virus Ecology--UNC-Chapel Hill

2010-03-18 Thread Charles Mitchell
NSF Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU)
Summer 2010
Plant Virus Ecology

POSITION SUMMARY

The Mitchell Lab (Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at 
Chapel Hill) is seeking one REU student to conduct independent research on 
the ecology of viruses that infect plants.  The research will be part of our 
research project on the joint effects of global change and biological 
invasions on insect-vectored generalist pathogens 
(http://www.bio.unc.edu/faculty/mitchell/lab/InvasionEID.htm).  The REU 
student will work as part of a team including two Ph.D. students, a 
technician, and a postdoctoral researcher.  The REU student will conduct 
greenhouse experiments to examine the factors that control (A) virus 
transmission, and (B) virus impacts on host fitness.  The student will 
receive training in fundamental concepts and theories of the ecology of 
infectious disease.  These concepts and theories are largely general across 
systems, spanning human and wildlife hosts as well as plants.  Additionally, 
the REU student will further broaden their research experience by 
contributing to other research projects on the ecology of infectious disease 
(this will be a minority of the total time, and may occasionally be 
outdoors).  The project could become a senior honors thesis.  The ideal 
student will be preparing to enter a graduate (M.S. or Ph.D.) program in 
Ecology or a related field in Biology or Environmental Sciences.

The full-time stipend is $450 per week, over 13 weeks ($5850 total).  
Alternatively, two half-time students (e.g. taking summer classes) could 
split the position.  The position may begin as early as Monday 10 May 2010, 
and end as late as Friday 20 August 2010 (15 weeks total, allowing the 
student two weeks off).  The student will be responsible for reporting the 
stipend as taxable income.  The student must arrange his/her own housing.

REU is a program funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF).  REU 
students must be enrolled in a degree program leading to a baccalaureate 
degree (i.e. to be eligible, you must not be graduating until at least Fall 
2010).  Additionally, REU students must be U.S. citizens or permanent 
residents.  The program particularly encourages applications from women, 
underrepresented minority groups, and persons with disabilities. 

To apply, please email Dr. Charles Mitchell at mitch...@bio.unc.edu: (A) a 
one page cover letter that explains why you are interested in the position, 
summarizes any relevant experience, and states whether you seek a full-time 
or half-time position, (B) a resume including your institution, major, 
expected graduation date, relevant courses, GPA, citizenship or permanent 
resident status, and work / research experience (if any), (C) the name and 
contact information for two people who can provide letters of reference.  
Letters will be requested only for semi-finalists, and official transcripts 
will be requested from finalists.  Applications will be reviewed until a 
highly qualified student is hired.  To guarantee full consideration, apply 
by 31 March 2010.


[ECOLOG-L] Ph.D. or M.S. assistantship, regional climate change impacts, Univ. North Dakota

2010-03-18 Thread Andrei Kirilenko
Graduate Research Assistantships are available at the Department of Earth
System Science and Policy (ESSP, http://essp.und.edu) at the University of
North Dakota. The successful candidate will work in one of the externally
funded projects:
-   Climate change and land use change impacts on a terminal lake watershed;
-   Climate change impacts on food security;
-   Climate change risk perceptions.

An ideal applicant would have an applicable background in natural science
with interest in remote sensing, GIS, numerical simulations, and/or
environmental modeling. Knowledge of, or a proven ability to learn computer
programming is a strong plus. Applications from the students majoring in
statistics, computer or physical science who exhibit interests in working
with environmental applications are also strongly encouraged. 

The assistantship is offered at the M.S. or Ph.D. levels and includes a GRA
and tuition waiver. A successful applicant will work and study within a
multidisciplinary team of faculty and students on one of the ESSP projects.
The ESSP academic program emphasizes teaching the components of the earth
system science and policy and applying the knowledge to address
environmental sustainability issues. The program includes gaining extensive
practical experience in using GIS and remote sensing, and substantial part
of the GRA will come from work in the spatial technology laboratory.
University campus is located in Grand Forks, a community of about 5 on
the North Dakota – Minnesota border close to Canada, which provides abundant
cultural and recreational opportunities. 

Interested students should contact Dr. Andrei Kirilenko at the address
below. Application should be sent directly to the UND Graduate School:
http://www.und.edu/dept/grad. Please feel free to contact me directly for
additional information or search the ESSP web site: http://essp.und.edu.

Do not hit “reply” to answer this message!

Andrei P. Kirilenko
Associate Professor
Department of Earth Systems Science and Policy
University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, ND 58202-9011
Phone: 701-777-6761
Fax: 701-777-2940
Email: my first name.my family name@und.edu 


Re: [ECOLOG-L] Colors in animals

2010-03-18 Thread Jörn Schmidt

Hi,

I don't know if there is any standard color set for animals, but buffy  
or buff is a yellowish brown...


I remember that you can look up plants by color, and than I found the  
following page...


http://www.whatbird.com/browse/attribute/birds_na_147/110/Color/

hope this was a help...

cheers

Jörn

Am 18.03.2010 um 16:51 schrieb Michael S. Batcher:

Is there a standard set of colors, with color chips (as in soil  
colors) for
animals?  I was looking at a description of a bird and came across  
the color
buffy which just did not bring forth an image in my mind.  Google  
lead me

to Buffy the Vampire Slayer, which, while a fun show, was less than
illuminating. Can anyone give me some guidance on this?  Thanks in  
advance.




Michael S. Batcher, MS, AICP

Ecologist and Environmental Planner

1907 Buskirk-West Hoosick Rd.

Buskirk, NY 12028



Phone: (518) 686-5868

Cell: (518) 961-1923





Dr. Jörn Schmidt

Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel
Department of Economics
Sustainable Fisheries
Wilhelm-Seelig-Platz 1
24118 Kiel

+49 431 880 5632

jschm...@economics.uni-kiel.de


[ECOLOG-L] Job Opportunity: Biological Technician in Ecology of Forest and Dynamics of Forest Tree Communities at SERC

2010-03-18 Thread Daniel Stover
The Smithsonian Environmental Research Center


Forest Ecology 

Biologist IS 9 ($51,630 per year plus benefits).

Biological Technician in Ecology of Forests and Dynamics of Forest Tree
Communities

2-year, grant-funded position 

Applications accepted through 31 April 2010

 

Based at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC) in
Edgewater, MD, approximately 26 miles east of Washington DC and 7 miles
south of Annapolis at a modern laboratory and office complex on 2,800
acres of land in the Muddy Creek Watershed on the western shore of
Chesapeake Bay.  Visit SERC's website (www.serc.si.edu
http://www.serc.si.edu/ ) for additional information.

 

The Biological Technician will assist a large multidisciplinary
grant-funded project to assess the community ecology, spatial
interactions and dynamics of woody plants in large, stem-mapped plots.
The grant-funded position is offered for a period of  2 years.  The
primary responsibility of the incumbent will be to assist in the field
collection, laboratory processing, and data analysis of forest tree
populations to quantify woody plant communities in an array of
stem-mapped forest plots at SERC's long-term (20+ yrs) research sites
within the Muddy Creek watershed.  The position is primarily focused on
management of our forest sampling programs, but also supports
opportunities to assist with field sampling and experiments for an array
of external grants and long-term sampling programs.  The position
requires working with a team of Principle Investigators, technicians,
volunteers, undergraduate interns, graduate students, post-doctoral
fellows, and visiting scientists.  Experience and aptitude in data
management, computer graphics, statistical analyses and Geographical
Information Systems (GIS) are especially desirable.

 

Desired Qualifications and Experience:

*   Masters degree or equivalent experience in forest or plant
ecology.
*   Experience in identification of woody plants of the Mid-Atlantic
region or East Coast.
*   Experience in field sampling of forest trees in stem-mapped
plots.
*   Ability to manage and manipulate data files using software for
spreadsheets (esp. Excel), databases (esp. Access), statistical packages
(esp. SAS), and graphical presentation (esp. Deltagraph).
*   Ability to manage a team of volunteers in field sampling of
forest trees.  
*   Demonstrated initiative, independence and responsible maturity.

 

SELECTIVE FACTORS:

1. Knowledge or experience in identification of woody plants of the
Eastern Deciduous Forest.

2. Knowledge of forest ecology (i.e., evidenced by professional
experience or formal education).

3. Knowledge of field sampling techniques.

QUALITY RANKING FACTORS:

1. Knowledge of woody plants of the Eastern Deciduous Forest.

2. Skill in field ecology of forests.

3. Skill in scientific data analysis and graphics.

4. Knowledge of use of computer software for word processing, spread
sheets, and data management.

 

For consideration, please submit a letter of interest that describes how
your experience, education and training relate to the specific selective
factors above, photocopies of college transcripts, Curriculum Vitae or
resume and names of 3 references to:

 

Dr. Geoffrey G. Parker, Forest Ecologist

Smithsonian Environmental Research Center

PO Box 28, 647 Contees Wharf Road

Edgewater, MD 21037-0028

park...@si.edu

443-482-2210

 

Applications will be accepted from April 1 or until filled, but not
later than April 31. 

 

The Smithsonian is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  SERC Home Page:
www.serc.si.edu

 

 


***

Daniel B. Stover, Ph.D.

Field Director,

North America Regional Climate Center

Earthwatch Institute

 

Smithsonian Environmental Research Center

P.O. Box 28

647 Contees Wharf Road

Edgewater, MD 21037-0028

Phone: 1-443-482-2374

www.earthwatch.org http://www.earthwatch.org/ 


***


[ECOLOG-L] SUMMER COURSES AT HIGHLANDS BIOLOGICAL STATION

2010-03-18 Thread Highlands Biological Station
2010 SUMMER COURSES AND WORKSHOPS AT THE HIGHLANDS BIOLOGICAL STATION

The Highlands Biological Station, an inter-institutional research center of
the University of North Carolina is offering its 2010 series of summer
courses and workshops that can be taken for credit toward your academic
program.  The following list of field-based courses and workshops are
focused on the diversity of organisms in the region with special emphasis on
identification and collection techniques as well as principles of evolution,
ecology and conservation.  Scholarships, Grants-in-aid of research for
graduate students, and summer internships also available.
Highlands, North Carolina is located in the southern Blue Ridge Mountains,
at an average elevation about 3,800 feet, and situated near the Nantahala
National Forest, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cherokee Indian
Reservation, Appalachian Trail, and the Blue Ridge Parkway.  For more
information and to apply, visit www.wcu.edu/hbs, email h...@email.wcu.edu or
call 828-526-2602.


2010 Course Schedule:

TAXONOMY AND NATURAL HISTORY OF SOUTHERN APPALACHIAN MAYFLIES, STONEFLIES,
AND CADDISFLIES with John C. Morse (May 3 – May 15)
 
BIOLOGY OF PLETHODONTID SALAMANDERS with Stephen G. Tilley (May 17 –  May 29)
 
MAMMALS OF THE SOUTHERN APPALACHIANS with R. Wayne Van Devender (May 31 –
June 12)

BIODIVERSITY AND CONSERVATION OF BIRDS with Rob Bierregaard (June 14 – June 26) 
 
INSECT BEHAVIORAL ECOLOGY with James T. Costa and Lynn E. Fletcher (June 28
 – July 10) 

SPIDERS OF THE SOUTHERN APPALACHIANS with Kefyn M. Catley (July 12 – July 24)

FLESHY FUNGI OF THE HIGHLANDS PLATEAU with Andrew S. Methven (July 26 –
August 7)
 
LAND SNAIL IDENTIFICATION WORKSHOP with Amy and Wayne Van Devender (May 10–14)

IDENTIFICATION OF SEDGES WORKSHOP with Dwayne Estes (May 24–29)
 
FERN IDENTIFICATION WORKSHOP with Dwayne Estes (August 9–14)
 
MOUNTAIN BIODIVERSITY WORKSHOP—FOR TEACHERS with Karen Kandl (June 21-25)

OBSERVING NATURE’S DETAILS—SCIENTIFIC ILLUSTRATION AND PHOTOGRAPHY WEEKEND
WORKSHOP with Nancy Lowe and John Pickering (April 24-25)


Cost and Credit Information
Course fee: $525 per 2-week course (**$425 for students from HBS member
institutions**)
Workshop fee: $275 per 1-week workshop (**$225 for students from HBS member
institutions**)
[Mountain Biodiversity can be taken for 2 graduate credits or 3 CEUs. 
Registration fee is $30] 
Course credit: Summer courses can be taken for 4 semester hours credit,
workshops can be taken for 2 hours credit, through either UNC-Chapel Hill or
Western Carolina University for an additional $85
Housing: $75/week
Check website for course applications, detailed descriptions, and
prerequisite requirements:  http://www.wcu.edu/hbs/currentyrcourses.htm


[ECOLOG-L] Observing Nature's Details Workshop April 24-25 at the Highlands Biological Station

2010-03-18 Thread Highlands Biological Station
OBSERVING NATURE'S DETAILS
This workshop is a survey of some visual techniques used by scientists to
record nature’s details.  In the process of learning scientific illustration
and macro photography techniques, students will become better observers of
the natural world.  Participants will use their photography skills to
collect data for the natural history website, www.discoverlife.org, and will
help document species for inventories at Highlands Biological Station and
environs.  Discover Life is an online encyclopedia of life, integrated with
maps, field guides, species information, and other web tools.

Part One: “Drawing From Nature” (Sunday, April 24)
Illustrator Nancy Lowe will teach drawing as a means to becoming a better
observer of nature's details. Students will work in both black  white and
color media, and learn to use light and shadow, line, form, texture, and
composition. Art supplies for Part One provided by instructor. No previous
drawing experience required.


Part Two:“Digital Camera Safari: Zooming In On Nature's Details” (Sunday,
April 25)
Dr. John Pickering and Nancy Lowe will teach macro photography of insects,
plants, lichens and other interesting details of natural history. For Part
Two, bring your digital camera. See
http://www.discoverlife.org/popa/camera.html to find out if your camera has
good macro and for a few recommendations for cameras. In addition to good
macro function, we recommend a camera with an optical zoom (a lens that
physically zooms in and out) of around 10x or more. Also bring laptop, GPS
unit, and cell phone, if available.

Classes will be held from 9-4 each day.  Course fees are $125 ($100 for
members of the Highlands Biological Foundation).  Housing can be provided
for a small fee if needed. The Highlands Biological Station is located in
Highlands, NC.  You can get more info about the course by calling
828-526-2602.  More information about the Highlands Biological Station and
its programs can be found at www.wcu.edu/hbs.

***
Artist Nancy Lowe is Outreach Coordinator for Discover Life In America, the
non-profit organization coordinating the All Taxa Biodiversity Inventory
(ATBI) in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  A former Artist-in-Residence
for the Smokies ATBI, Nancy has taught scientific illustration at Highlands
Biological Station and numerous other venues around the country.  John
Pickering is a Professor in the Odum School of Ecology at the University of
Georgia, and been involved with the Smokies ATBI and Discover Life in
America since their inception.   

Anya Hinkle, Ph.D.
Associate Director, Highlands Biological Station
265 North Sixth Street
Highlands, NC 28741
tel-828-526-2602
fax-828-526-2797
www.wcu.edu/hbs
ahin...@email.wcu.edu


Re: [ECOLOG-L] Colors in animals

2010-03-18 Thread Catherine Tarsiewicz
Hello Mr. Batcher  Ecolog,

Buff is referring to a color similar to the color name used in cosmetics for
human skin color.

http://www.whatbird.com/browse/attribute/birds_na_147/110/Color/

Catherine Tarsiewicz

On Thu, Mar 18, 2010 at 11:51 AM, Michael S. Batcher 
mbatc...@riverbeauty.net wrote:

 Is there a standard set of colors, with color chips (as in soil colors) for
 animals?  I was looking at a description of a bird and came across the
 color
 buffy which just did not bring forth an image in my mind.  Google lead me
 to Buffy the Vampire Slayer, which, while a fun show, was less than
 illuminating. Can anyone give me some guidance on this?  Thanks in advance.



 Michael S. Batcher, MS, AICP

 Ecologist and Environmental Planner

 1907 Buskirk-West Hoosick Rd.

 Buskirk, NY 12028



 Phone: (518) 686-5868

 Cell: (518) 961-1923





[ECOLOG-L] Parcel Condition Monitoring and Restoration Crew

2010-03-18 Thread Bridget Walden
Description:
The Great Basin Institute, in cooperation with the U.S. Forest Service Lake
Tahoe Basin Management Unit (LTBMU), is recruiting four research associates
to serve on our Parcel Condition Monitoring (PCM) and Restoration crew. The
PCM crew is responsible for conducting PCM site visits, invasive species
control and monitoring, and implementation of small erosion control
restoration projects on National Forest urban lots. PCM monitoring project
work will be the focus of the early season, with a transition to restoration
project work in the later portion of the season and invasive species work
intermixed season long. Specific duties will include: conducting cursory
inspections and data collection on PCM forms, and assessing the general
condition of the parcels by looking at vegetation/forest health, hazardous
fuels, watershed/soil erosion, presence of invasive weeds and other property
management conditions related to small forested parcels located within an
urban setting. Conducting invasive species control using various manual
control methods and conducting a variety of restoration activities including
installing erosion control features, seeding and re-vegetation, and
construction of fences. Data entry using oracle database software and field
data recorders will be conducted on a daily/weekly basis. This position
requires the incumbent to be physically capable of working, walking, hiking
in a forest environment and be able to perform physical labor associated
with manual weed control and erosion control restoration projects. The crew
will work Monday – Thursday, 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Timeline:  
o   May 24, 2010 to October 22, 2010

Compensation:  
o   Living Stipend:$8,000
o   $1,800 AmeriCorps Education Award, student loan forbearance and paid
interest accrual*
o   Housing Provided 

Location:
o   Housing is provided in South Lake Tahoe, CA
o   Duty station is located in Meyers, CA, approx. 10 miles from South Lake 
Tahoe.


* AmeriCorps Education Award may be used for past, present or future
education experiences, including payment of qualifying federal student
loans. Loan forbearance on qualifying federal student loans


Qualifications:
o   College coursework in a natural resource programs focused on 
environmental
science, biology, botany, or other field-related programs;
o   Experience or knowledge of data collection and entry methods/protocols;
o   Experience using hand-held GPS units and/or digital data recorders,
desirable; 
o   Willingness and ability to conduct manual labor, including repetitive 
tasks;
o   Clean, driving record and valid state-issued driver’s license. Applicant
should be comfortable driving in heavy traffic, on narrow mountain roads on-
and off-road;
o   Ability to work productively as part of a team to accomplish mutual 
goals;
o   Ability to communicate effectively with a diverse public;
o   Possess good organizational skills;
o   Ability to work in harsh and rapidly changing environments, work in all
types of weather conditions, traverse uneven terrain, and otherwise maintain
good physical condition; and
o   Meet AmeriCorps eligibility requirements: (1) U.S. citizenship or legal
resident alien status, (2) eligible to receive an AmeriCorps Education Award
(limit of two in a lifetime, regardless of award amount), and (3) pass
National Sex Offender Public Registry (NSOPR) and federal criminal
background checks.

For a complete position description please visit our website at
www.TheGreatBasinInstitute.org

How to Apply:
Qualified and interested applicants should forward a cover letter, their
résumé, and a list of three professional references to Bridget Walden, at
bwal...@thegreatbasininstitute.org. Please include where you found this
position posted. 

This program is available to all, without regard to race, color, national
origin, disability, age, sex, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or
religion. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. 


[ECOLOG-L] public data sets - tree allometry?

2010-03-18 Thread A. Thorn
Greetings, all.

I am working on some tree physiology models, and am missing a few parameter 
values on temperate tree allometry.  I'm sure that I could find the information 
I need in published papers, but I was wondering whether I could save myself 
some time by getting values directly from public data sets.  Can anyone 
recommend a database to check out?

My specific model species are Acer saccharum, Quercus rubra, and Betula 
papyrifera, though I'd be happy to have relevant parameter values for just one 
or two of these or related species.  I'm particularly interested in smaller 
trees, in the ~5 meter height range.  I need to know the relationships among 
diameter at breast height, tree height, and total leaf area.

Thoughts or ideas?

Thanks in advance,

Alexandra Thorn
Doctoral Candidate
Department of Biology
Tufts University



  


Re: [ECOLOG-L] Colors in animals

2010-03-18 Thread Zach Felix
Greetings-

I think this is a good question and one I have wondered about.  Is it 
appropriate to use the Munsell soil chart and the numbers found therein to 
quantify hue and chroma?  Can you use these numbers in statistical tests?

Zach Felix

Reinhardt College
Waleska, GA

 Date: Thu, 18 Mar 2010 14:15:50 -0400
 From: ctar...@gmail.com
 Subject: Re: [ECOLOG-L] Colors in animals
 To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU
 
 Hello Mr. Batcher  Ecolog,
 
 Buff is referring to a color similar to the color name used in cosmetics for
 human skin color.
 
 http://www.whatbird.com/browse/attribute/birds_na_147/110/Color/
 
 Catherine Tarsiewicz
 
 On Thu, Mar 18, 2010 at 11:51 AM, Michael S. Batcher 
 mbatc...@riverbeauty.net wrote:
 
  Is there a standard set of colors, with color chips (as in soil colors) for
  animals?  I was looking at a description of a bird and came across the
  color
  buffy which just did not bring forth an image in my mind.  Google lead me
  to Buffy the Vampire Slayer, which, while a fun show, was less than
  illuminating. Can anyone give me some guidance on this?  Thanks in advance.
 
 
 
  Michael S. Batcher, MS, AICP
 
  Ecologist and Environmental Planner
 
  1907 Buskirk-West Hoosick Rd.
 
  Buskirk, NY 12028
 
 
 
  Phone: (518) 686-5868
 
  Cell: (518) 961-1923
 
 
 
  
_
Hotmail: Trusted email with powerful SPAM protection.
http://clk.atdmt.com/GBL/go/210850553/direct/01/

Re: [ECOLOG-L] Colors in animals

2010-03-18 Thread kevina vulinec
These references might help.

Brodie, E. D., III. 1993. Consistency of individual differences in
antipredator behaviour and colour pattern in the garter snake *Thamnophis* *
ordinoides*. *Animal Behaviour*
45:851-861http://faculty.virginia.edu/brodie/edb3pdfs/Brodie%2093%20-%20AnBehav.pdf
.
Brodie, E. D., III. 1992. Correlational selection for color pattern and
antipredator behavior in the garter snake *Thamnophis ordinoides*. *
Evolution* 
46:1284-1298http://faculty.virginia.edu/brodie/edb3pdfs/evol1992.pdf
.


On Thu, Mar 18, 2010 at 11:51 AM, Michael S. Batcher 
mbatc...@riverbeauty.net wrote:

 Is there a standard set of colors, with color chips (as in soil colors) for
 animals?  I was looking at a description of a bird and came across the
 color
 buffy which just did not bring forth an image in my mind.  Google lead me
 to Buffy the Vampire Slayer, which, while a fun show, was less than
 illuminating. Can anyone give me some guidance on this?  Thanks in advance.



 Michael S. Batcher, MS, AICP

 Ecologist and Environmental Planner

 1907 Buskirk-West Hoosick Rd.

 Buskirk, NY 12028



 Phone: (518) 686-5868

 Cell: (518) 961-1923





-- 
Kevina Vulinec, PhD, Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources,
Delaware State University, Dover, Delaware 19901-2277, (302) 857-6457 Fax:
(302) 857-6455, kvuli...@desu.edu


Re: [ECOLOG-L] Colors in animals

2010-03-18 Thread David Duffy

Ridgway, R. 1912. Color Standards and Nomenclature. Washington, D.C

this may be helpful but I haven't seen:
The Ridgway color standards with a Munsell 
notation key. J. Optical Soc. Am. 39:592-599.






At 08:18 AM 3/18/2010, Jörn Schmidt wrote:

Hi,

I don't know if there is any standard color set for animals, but buffy
or buff is a yellowish brown...

I remember that you can look up plants by color, and than I found the
following page...

http://www.whatbird.com/browse/attribute/birds_na_147/110/Color/

hope this was a help...

cheers

Jörn

Am 18.03.2010 um 16:51 schrieb Michael S. Batcher:


Is there a standard set of colors, with color chips (as in soil
colors) for
animals?  I was looking at a description of a bird and came across
the color
buffy which just did not bring forth an image in my mind.  Google
lead me
to Buffy the Vampire Slayer, which, while a fun show, was less than
illuminating. Can anyone give me some guidance on this?  Thanks in
advance.



Michael S. Batcher, MS, AICP

Ecologist and Environmental Planner

1907 Buskirk-West Hoosick Rd.

Buskirk, NY 12028



Phone: (518) 686-5868

Cell: (518) 961-1923



Dr. Jörn Schmidt

Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel
Department of Economics
Sustainable Fisheries
Wilhelm-Seelig-Platz 1
24118 Kiel

+49 431 880 5632

jschm...@economics.uni-kiel.de





David Cameron Duffy
Professor of Botany and Unit Leader
Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit (PCSU)
University of Hawai`i
3190 Maile Way  St. John 410
Honolulu, HI  96822-2279
(808) 956-8218 phone
(808) 956-4710  fax   / (808) 956-3923 (backup fax)
email address: ddu...@hawaii.edu


Re: [ECOLOG-L] Colors in animals

2010-03-18 Thread Luke K. Butler
This resource includes 86 color swatches (including one called buff)  
intended to be used for comparison with samples in the field.  It also  
has some helpful notes on the Munsell system for quantifying colors,  
and it builds on Ridgway's work on coloration in birds.


Smithe, Frank B. 1975. Naturalist's color guide. American Museum of  
Natural History, New York.


Luke

***
Luke K. Butler, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Department of Biology
The College of New Jersey
2000 Pennington Road
Ewing, NJ 08628
609.771.2531
***

On Mar 18, 2010, at 8:02 PM, kevina vulinec wrote:


These references might help.

Brodie, E. D., III. 1993. Consistency of individual differences in
antipredator behaviour and colour pattern in the garter snake  
*Thamnophis* *

ordinoides*. *Animal Behaviour*
45:851-861http://faculty.virginia.edu/brodie/edb3pdfs/Brodie%2093%20-%20AnBehav.pdf 


.
Brodie, E. D., III. 1992. Correlational selection for color pattern  
and

antipredator behavior in the garter snake *Thamnophis ordinoides*. *
Evolution* 46:1284-1298http://faculty.virginia.edu/brodie/edb3pdfs/evol1992.pdf 


.


On Thu, Mar 18, 2010 at 11:51 AM, Michael S. Batcher 
mbatc...@riverbeauty.net wrote:

Is there a standard set of colors, with color chips (as in soil  
colors) for
animals?  I was looking at a description of a bird and came across  
the

color
buffy which just did not bring forth an image in my mind.  Google  
lead me

to Buffy the Vampire Slayer, which, while a fun show, was less than
illuminating. Can anyone give me some guidance on this?  Thanks in  
advance.




Michael S. Batcher, MS, AICP

Ecologist and Environmental Planner

1907 Buskirk-West Hoosick Rd.

Buskirk, NY 12028



Phone: (518) 686-5868

Cell: (518) 961-1923






--
Kevina Vulinec, PhD, Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources,
Delaware State University, Dover, Delaware 19901-2277, (302)  
857-6457 Fax:

(302) 857-6455, kvuli...@desu.edu