[ECOLOG-L] program coordinator position at the University of California, Irvine

[Diane Pataki]

The Center for Environmental Biology (CEB) at the University of California,
Irvine seeks a Program Coordinator to facilitate research programs focused
on sustainable management of California ecosystems, and to conduct original
research in partnership with local land managers. The position involves
opportunities to collaborate with several faculty at UC Irvine, and with
managers of public lands in southern California interested in applied
research in ecology and sustainable management. The position will be
approximately 50% coordination and data synthesis and 50% research-oriented.
The ideal candidate will have research interests pertaining to ecosystem
services, as well as the ability to interact with a diverse group of
stakeholders interested in the future of California’s biological resources.
 Applicants should have a Ph.D. in environmental biology, conservation
biology, environmental science, ecology, or a related field.  Appointments
will be made at the post-doctoral or project scientist level depending on
experience.  Candidates should send a cover letter explaining their
interests and experience along with a c.v. and the names of three references
to Diane Pataki, dpat...@uci.edu.  More information about CEB can be found
at http://www.uciceb.com.  Applications will be reviewed beginning Jan. 15,
2011, and the position will remain open until filled.  

[ECOLOG-L] Call for Papers: Seasons and phenology: Evidence from observations, reconstructions, measurements and models at EGU (Austria)

[This Rutishauser]

Dear colleagues:

The EGU General Assembly 2011 is being held April 3-8, Vienna 
() and abstract submission is 
now open.

Please consider submitting an abstract to session CL2.13 
Seasons and phenology: Evidence from observations, reconstructions, 
measurements and models (co-sponsored by USA-NPN, PAGES & ILEAPS)
Link: . 
The description of the session is attached below.

We would appreciate if you could also bring this session to the attention of 
researchers and students who are likely to be interested in this topic.

You may submit an abstract at
.
While there is an abstract processing charge of EUR 40 per abstract, please 
note that the registration fees will be reduced to take into account the 
abstract fee.

The deadline for submission of abstracts is fast approaching---
MONDAY 10th JANUARY 2011.

Looking forward to seeing you in Vienna!
This Rutishauser (ru...@giub.unibe.ch), 
Annette Menzel (TU München, Germany, men...@forst.tu-muenchen.de), 
Jake Weltzin (USA National Phenology Network,jwelt...@usgs.gov), 
Alison Donnelly (Trinity College Dublin, Ireland, donne...@tcd.ie)


Session abstract:
Observations of plant and animal phenological records, remote sensing 
observations and the timing of snow and ice cover from all continents and 
several oceans show that many physical and biological natural systems are 
changing their seasonal timing, particularly due to increases in temperature.

We invite contributions with cross-disciplinary perspectives that present 
seasonality changes based on recent plant and animal phenological observations, 
historical documentary sources, or seasonality measurements using climate data, 
remote sensing, flux measurements or modelling studies. We seek contributions 
across all spatial and temporal scales that compare and integrate seasonality 
changes, emphasize applications, discuss species interactions and decoupling 
and that advance our understanding of seasonality response to long-term climate 
change and single extreme events.


***
This Rutishauser

University of Bern, Institute of Geography
Research Groups in Climatology & Meteorology (Klimet)
and Phenology & Topoclimatology (Phenotop)
Hallerstrasse 12, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland
Phone: +41 (0)31 631'88'83, Fax: +41 (0)31 631'85'11
ru...@giub.unibe.ch, http://www.geography.unibe.ch/

Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Unitat d’Ecofisiologia CSIC-CREAF
CREAF (Center for Ecological Research and Forestry Applications)
t...@creaf.uab.es, http://www.creaf.uab.es/

http://www.giub.unibe.ch/~rutis/

Re: [ECOLOG-L] ESA Agroecology Section Website

[Wayne Tyson]

Ecolog: 

It seems that this is a kickoff for this organization/website, but the "mission 
statement" seems vague and the "long-range plan" and by-laws non-existent (404 
Error). Maybe they can/will be posted or a notice posted when they are 
available on the website. 

Perhaps Ecolog members would care to offer some breadth of understanding on 
this subject? 

The mission statement reads: 
"Mission Statement, Officers, Documents, Important Past Events 

"About
"Updated November 2010
"The Agroecology Section will promote an understanding of the importance of the 
application of ecological concepts and principles to the design and management 
of sustainable Agroecosystems among ecologists, agriculturists, and members of 
related disciplines. Other objectives include encouraging education and 
research in Agroecology, sponsoring meetings and publications for the 
communication of research and educational activities in Agroecology, and 
increasing student participation in the Society.

"Our goal is to promote holistic research that works within the local ecosystem 
to sustain the environmental and economic viability of a community through the 
promotion of natural farming systems."

I would like to have my understanding promoted from its present ignorant state 
to a more enlightened one. Specifically, I would like to know whether or not, 
"when push comes to shove" that self-sufficient ecosystems will be winners or 
losers when it comes to the economic viability of a community. Perhaps you 
could provide an example of an agroecological case compared with one which is 
not that we could see and feel each of them, preferably in different parts of 
the USA/World to limit the travel and carbon expenditures to reach the sites? 
By what standards are such cases determined? 

What is the definition of a "natural farming system?" 

WT

- Original Message - 

From: "Rich Smith" 
To: 
Sent: Wednesday, December 15, 2010 11:22 AM
Subject: [ECOLOG-L] ESA Agroecology Section Website


Dear ECOLOG subscribers,

I wanted to let those of you who are interested in sustainable agriculture and 
agroecology (but are not yet members of the ESA Agroecology Section) know that 
our new Agroecology Section website is now up and running. Please take a few 
moments to check it out. 


http://www.esa.org/agroecology/index.html

The site will be updated on a regular basis and new content pertaining to 
agroecology science and practice will be added frequently—so check it often. 
You’ll also notice that you have the ability to interact with the site through 
Facebook and twitter, and we hope that you will take the opportunity to do so. 


If you are interested in sustainable agriculture and agroecology, please 
consider joining ESA's Agroecology Section when you initiate or renew your ESA 
membership (there's a link on the website).

Many thanks to our Secretary/Treasurer/Web-master, John Quinn, for his tireless 
efforts to put the site together.

Sincerely,

Rich Smith, Chair 
(on behalf of the Agroecology Section Officers)
--
Richard G. Smith
Assistant Professor of Agroecology
Department of Natural Resources and the Environment
264 James Hall
University of New Hampshire
Durham, NH 03824
Email: richard.sm...@unh.edu
(603) 862-2724 Office
(603) 953-3396 Cell
http://nre.unh.edu/faculty/smith
 









No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG - www.avg.com 
Version: 8.5.449 / Virus Database: 271.1.1/3317 - Release Date: 12/15/10 
07:34:00

[ECOLOG-L] conference announcement: biodiversity-friendly cacao certification

[Anthony Waldron]

Fundacion Maquipucuna cordially extends to all an invitation to the first 
international conference on the certification of biodiversity-friendly cacao. 
Presentations by Robert Rice,Celia Harvey, Tom Dietsch, Eduardo Somarriba, Teja 
Tscharntke, Deborah Faria and many others will focus on the conservation of 
biodiversity via shade-grown cacao, the trade-off between biodiversity 
protection and farmer livelihoods, all to the end of creating a market 
certification for biodiversity-friendly cacao. Our aim is that the 
certification conserve biodiversity, but in a way that takes into account the 
needs of economically poor cacao smallholders and also of the demand side. If 
you are interested in presenting or attending, please contact 
anth...@maquipucuna.org as soon as possible. The conference runs from 15 - 17 
January 2011 in Quito, Ecuador, and is free. There is also a birding side trip 
from 17 to 20 January, visiting the cloudforest reserve of Maquipucuna, the 
Tigrillo reserve in the Ecuadorean Choco, and sites at various altitudes along 
the way, and costs about $350 depending on numbers.

Anthony Waldron, Director of Conservation, Fundacion Maquipucuna

> Date: Wed, 15 Dec 2010 11:22:52 -0800
> From: richgsm...@yahoo.com
> Subject: [ECOLOG-L] ESA Agroecology Section Website
> To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU
> 
> Dear ECOLOG subscribers,
>  
> I wanted to let those of you who are interested in sustainable agriculture 
> and 
> agroecology (but are not yet members of the ESA Agroecology Section) know 
> that 
> our new Agroecology Section website is now up and running.  Please take a few 
> moments to check it out.  
> 
>  
> http://www.esa.org/agroecology/index.html
>  
> The site will be updated on a regular basis and new content pertaining to 
> agroecology science and practice will be added frequently—so check it often.  
> You’ll also notice that you have the ability to interact with the site 
> through 
> Facebook and twitter, and we hope that you will take the opportunity to do 
> so.  
> 
>  
> If you are interested in sustainable agriculture and agroecology, please 
> consider joining ESA's Agroecology Section when you initiate or renew your 
> ESA 
> membership (there's a link on the website).
>  
> Many thanks to our Secretary/Treasurer/Web-master, John Quinn, for his 
> tireless 
> efforts to put the site together.
>  
> Sincerely,
>  
> Rich Smith, Chair 
> (on behalf of the Agroecology Section Officers)
>  --
> Richard G. Smith
> Assistant Professor of Agroecology
> Department of Natural Resources and the Environment
> 264 James Hall
> University of New Hampshire
> Durham, NH 03824
> Email: richard.sm...@unh.edu
> (603) 862-2724 Office
> (603) 953-3396 Cell
> http://nre.unh.edu/faculty/smith
>  
> 
> 
>   
  

[ECOLOG-L] Biodiversity definition CONCEPT Challenge See also definition of biodiversity Re: [ECOLOG-L] ECOLOG-L Digest - 13 Dec 2010 to 14 Dec 2010 (#2010-341)

[Wayne Tyson]

Ecology  Biodiversity  Laws  101215



Ecology is such a squishy, fuzzy, fractal, chaotic phenomenon, it's no 
wonder definitions of terms are such a challenge.




Defining, pinning down, measuring something that is infinitely complex and 
continuously changing may be impossible, even irrelevant. If true, that 
would mean a fundamental paradigm shift away from conventional practice.




Consciously or unconsciously, ecologists and others who ponder the wonder of 
life seem to variously try to conventionally measure, then intuit, relate, 
and re-check, only to find an infinity of not-quite-fits, and measure again 
in a cycle that is simultaneously revealing, frustrating, close, and far, in 
a never-ending quest for some Holy Grail of certainty when contentment may 
lie in an acceptance of small glimpses of "this wonder of life."




Trying to hammer this genie into a bottle in the image of our 
self-conception may be useful up to a point (it is quite a challenge to 
avoid trying to put such phenomena into terms we already know, and a 
fearsome prospect to open our hearts and minds to a kind of osmosis wherein 
we assume a more passive than aggressive posture and "let it happen") where 
the phenomena we glimpse "write" the rules and we are mere stenographers.




Critical thinking is all very well, but when it comes to being critical 
about our own thinking-well, that sort of thing just isn't usually done, is 
it? We are uncomfortable with the idea that the error might lie in the 
certainty of our views (definitions, methods, yes, even numerical 
"discipline" . . . ) rather than in challenges to them.




Yet the history of scientific advance is written, not about the certainty of 
paradigms, but of the heretical challenges that, at long last, finally break 
through. We are, after all, a social species, and conformity to groupthink 
is historically tied closely to the very survival that enabled us to 
entertain the luxury of contemplation of something besides our next meal-or 
mega-fortune.




As an example of such an heretical challenge, we might look at the concept 
of biodiversity and the conclusions that are derived from it. Biodiversity, 
for example, might be a valid concept based on an intuitive hunch, and like 
all hunches in history, the concept must stand up to continuous testing; the 
problem comes in when we stop the testing. An assemblage of species that is, 
say, largely (99 percent or some other large number) composed of one species 
(or of low genetic diversity) with a large number of species (or of high 
genetic diversity) might be as resilient as its environment makes possible. 
Historically, the earth of, say, 3.7 billion years BCE might have been an 
approximation of that hypothetical. Given the literal hell's fire and 
brimstone that life apparently has had to endure to reach its present level 
of complexity, one might be able to conclude that such "low diversity" might 
have possessed an as yet not understood kind of flexibility not dependent 
upon diversity.




I dunno . . . what say y'all?



WT


- Original Message - 
From: "Mimi Tzeng" 

To: 
Sent: Wednesday, December 15, 2010 1:16 PM
Subject: Re: [ECOLOG-L] ECOLOG-L Digest - 13 Dec 2010 to 14 Dec 2010 
(#2010-341)



Funnily enough, I was recently faced with exactly that problem - though on 
a

very small-scale, non-Nobel Prize winning level. The task was to write a
brief intro for an online article directory about Biodiversity, aimed at 
the

general web-browsing public. I came up with:

"Biodiversity can refer to genetic diversity within a species, species
diversity within an ecosystem, ecosystem diversity within a region, or all
three of them taken together. In each case, it's a combination measure of
the total number of genes, species, or ecosystems (called "richness") and
their abundances relative to each other.

For example, an ecosystem where one species comprises 99% of the total
number of individuals isn't very diverse, even if there are hundreds of
other species in the other 1%. Likewise, high genetic diversity within a
species is crucial to how well it can adapt to changing environmental
conditions - and its survival in the long term.

Biodiversity has become an increasingly important part of policy planning
for issues in resource and environmental conservation. The loss of
biodiversity has an impact in other areas, like medicine and 
bioinformatics.

Learn more about all aspects of biodiversity with the articles below."

I'm open to suggestions on how to improve this if anyone has any. The live
version is at http://www.brighthub.com/guides/biodiversity.aspx. Bright 
Hub

is one of the few content sites with basic science articles; the article
topics are based on what people actually search about (as opposed to what
people probably ought to be searching about).

Regards,
Mimi Tzeng


- Original Message -

From: "Ritchie, Euan" 
To: 
Sent: segunda-feira, 13 de Dezembro de 2010 23:05
Subject: [ECOLOG-L]

Re: [ECOLOG-L] ECOLOG-L Digest - 13 Dec 2010 to 14 Dec 2010 (#2010-341)

[Mimi Tzeng]

Funnily enough, I was recently faced with exactly that problem - though on a
very small-scale, non-Nobel Prize winning level. The task was to write a
brief intro for an online article directory about Biodiversity, aimed at the
general web-browsing public. I came up with:

"Biodiversity can refer to genetic diversity within a species, species
diversity within an ecosystem, ecosystem diversity within a region, or all
three of them taken together. In each case, it's a combination measure of
the total number of genes, species, or ecosystems (called "richness") and
their abundances relative to each other.

For example, an ecosystem where one species comprises 99% of the total
number of individuals isn't very diverse, even if there are hundreds of
other species in the other 1%. Likewise, high genetic diversity within a
species is crucial to how well it can adapt to changing environmental
conditions - and its survival in the long term.

Biodiversity has become an increasingly important part of policy planning
for issues in resource and environmental conservation. The loss of
biodiversity has an impact in other areas, like medicine and bioinformatics.
Learn more about all aspects of biodiversity with the articles below."

I'm open to suggestions on how to improve this if anyone has any. The live
version is at http://www.brighthub.com/guides/biodiversity.aspx. Bright Hub
is one of the few content sites with basic science articles; the article
topics are based on what people actually search about (as opposed to what
people probably ought to be searching about).

Regards,
Mimi Tzeng


- Original Message -
> From: "Ritchie, Euan" 
> To: 
> Sent: segunda-feira, 13 de Dezembro de 2010 23:05
> Subject: [ECOLOG-L] Defining biodiversity, and does the term capture the
> public's attention?
>
>
> Hi everyone,
>
> I have just returned from the Ecological Society of Australia meeting and
> among other issues, there was much discussion about the term biodiversity.
> Many people argue that this term is hard to define, and importantly, the
> public have no idea what it actually means and therefore they have less
> connection/concern to preserve/conserve species and habitats. I thought it
> would be interesting to hear how others define biodiversity, and if this
> term isn't helpful for conveying the importance of species diversity to the
> public, what term(s) should we use?
>
> Over to you,
>
> Euan
>
>

[ECOLOG-L] Assistant Professor of Biology/Environmental Science

[John F Riebesell]

The University of Michigan-Dearborn invites applications for a tenure-track
assistant professor position in environmental biology beginning September
2011.  Applicants must hold a Ph.D., be committed to teaching, and be able
to develop an active research program that will involve undergraduate
students and attract external funding.   Previous teaching or postdoctoral
experience is preferred.  Teaching duties will likely include Ecology,
Environmental Science, and either Population Genetics and Evolution, or
Applied Ecology, or participation in introductory biology.  Future
development of new courses is also possible.  The area of specialization
within ecology/evolutionary biology/environmental science is open and should
complement existing faculty/departmental strengths.  Research space, modest
start-up funding, and teaching released time are available.  Submit a letter
of application, curriculum vitae, a statement of teaching philosophy, a
description of research plans, and the names of three references to: 
Environmental Biology Faculty Search, Department of Natural Sciences,
University of Michigan-Dearborn, 4901 Evergreen Rd., Dearborn, MI  48128. 
Review of applications will begin January 10, 2011.  The University of
Michigan-Dearborn is a non-discriminatory, affirmative action employer.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate positions: extinction, invasion, ecosystem engineering

[Kim Cuddington]

Two graduate positions in ecology: University of Waterloo

Funding is available for two graduate positions in the areas of extinction, 
invasion and ecosystem engineering. 

Position one:  Investigation of the role of species modification of the 
abiotic environment (ecosystem engineering) on population and community 
dynamics. We are particularly interested in the effects on invasive and 
endangered species (e.g., Hine’s emerald dragonfly). 

Position two: Investigation of the effects of variation in the abiotic 
environment on invasion and extinction risk. In particular, we would like 
the applicant to address the effects of autocorrelation in environmental 
signals (e.g. temperature) using a model invertebrate system. 

Both research questions can be addressed using either purely theoretical or 
purely experimental techniques. However, the ideal candidates will combine 
both approaches to produce powerful conclusions regarding these mechanisms 
and species dynamics. A background in either ecology or mathematics is 
required.

To be considered, candidates must be eligible for admission to the Biology 
graduate program at University of Waterloo 
(http://biology.uwaterloo.ca/graduate). 

Stipend: Candidates receive financial support through a combination of 
teaching and research stipend for a total of $19686/annum.  Travel funds to 
attend scientific conferences are available.

Location: Waterloo, Ontario. 
Maclean's reputational university rankings for Canadian universities has 
consistently ranked UW first in the "Most Innovative" and "Leaders of 
Tomorrow" sections. The city of Waterloo is part of Canada's Technology 
Triangle, and hosts companies such as Research in Motion, Maplesoft, Google, 
Sybase, and McAfee, as well as various thinktanks such as the Perimeter 
Institute for Theoretical Physics, and the Institute for Quantum Computing. 
It was named Intelligent Community of the Year in 2007.


Contact: Dr. Kim Cuddington
Department of Biology
University of Waterloo
Waterloo, Ontario 
Email: kcuddingATuwaterlooDOT.ca

[ECOLOG-L] ESA Agroecology Section Website

[Rich Smith]

Dear ECOLOG subscribers,
 
I wanted to let those of you who are interested in sustainable agriculture and 
agroecology (but are not yet members of the ESA Agroecology Section) know that 
our new Agroecology Section website is now up and running.  Please take a few 
moments to check it out.  

 
http://www.esa.org/agroecology/index.html
 
The site will be updated on a regular basis and new content pertaining to 
agroecology science and practice will be added frequently—so check it often.  
You’ll also notice that you have the ability to interact with the site through 
Facebook and twitter, and we hope that you will take the opportunity to do so.  

 
If you are interested in sustainable agriculture and agroecology, please 
consider joining ESA's Agroecology Section when you initiate or renew your ESA 
membership (there's a link on the website).
 
Many thanks to our Secretary/Treasurer/Web-master, John Quinn, for his tireless 
efforts to put the site together.
 
Sincerely,
 
Rich Smith, Chair 
(on behalf of the Agroecology Section Officers)
 --
Richard G. Smith
Assistant Professor of Agroecology
Department of Natural Resources and the Environment
264 James Hall
University of New Hampshire
Durham, NH 03824
Email: richard.sm...@unh.edu
(603) 862-2724 Office
(603) 953-3396 Cell
http://nre.unh.edu/faculty/smith
 


  

[ECOLOG-L] Internship in Organic and Isotope Geochemistry

[Rebecca Hays]

Internship —Organic and Isotope Geochemistry Field and Laboratory 
Assistants

The Stroud Water Research Center (SWRC) is seeking motivated science 
majors for Spring 2011 to assist in a wide variety of environmental 
research projects on the ecology, ecosystem dynamics, biogeochemistry, 
isotope geochemistry and organic geochemistry of streams and rivers.  We 
typically employ 5-10 interns during the summer, and 1-3 interns during 
other seasons.  

The three research groups at the SWRC – led by Drs. Aufdenkampe, Kaplan 
and Newbold – together study energy flow, nutrient cycling, and organic 
matter composition and dynamics in stream and river ecosystems.  Projects 
include following the movements of organic carbon and inorganic nitrogen 
from hillslopes to streams, the deposition and resuspension of organic 
particles in stream water, measurements of dissolved and particulate 
organic matter bioavailability, investigating streambed bacterial 
communities with molecular techniques, and determining the global 
importance of large rivers, such as the Amazon, as a sink or source of 
greenhouse gases.  More information on research projects can be found at 
http://www.stroudcenter.org/research/index.htm.

Internship tasks include: (1) sample collection and other fieldwork, such 
as streamflow measurements and operation of data logging equipment, in 
streams local to the Stroud Center; (2) laboratory analysis of water and 
sediment samples for a variety of basic chemical properties such as 
dissolved gas, nutrient and sediment concentrations, carbon and nitrogen 
content, stable isotope signatures, spectroscopic signatures, and mineral 
surface area; and (3) assistance to full time staff with sample 
preparation and analysis of organic contaminants and natural carbohydrate 
and amino acid compositions. Interns will thus be exposed to a wide 
variety of modern laboratory instrumentation, including: elemental 
analysis (EA) – isotope ratios mass spectrometry (IRMS); surface area 
analysis; Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR); gas 
chromatography – mass spectrometry (GC-MS), ion chromatography, and high 
pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). Additionally, assistance in 
implementing a network of environmental sensors to be installed in a study 
watershed is desired. 

Qualifications include: positive work ethic and attention to detail, 
training in basic wet-chemistry, and basic computer skills.  Course work 
in Organic Chemistry is highly desirable. Experience with electronics is a 
plus.

Stipend is a minimum of $350 per week.  Starting and ending dates are 
negotiable.

Send cover letter, resume, transcripts (unofficial transcripts 
acceptable), and names, addresses, telephone numbers of three references 
to the address below.  Email is preferred.  Review of spring intership 
applications begins immediately.  Applications for summer positions will 
be reviewed beginning March 15 until positions are filled.  Applicants who 
wish to be considered for a REU position should indicate their interest 
and qualifications for independent study.

Stephanie A. Dix Geochemist, Level III
Stroud Water Research Center
970 Spencer Road
Avondale, Pa 19311
s...@stroudcenter.org

The Stroud Water Research Center (www.stroudcenter.org) is an independent, 
non-profit institution devoted to basic and applied research on streams 
and rivers in North America and beyond.  The scientists work in 
interdisciplinary research teams, blending their individual talents in 
hydrology, biogeochemistry, microbial ecology, invertebrate biology, and 
ecosystem modeling to study the physical, chemical, and biological 
processes of streams, rivers and their watersheds.  The Stroud Water 
Research Center is recognized internationally for its pioneering research 
accomplishments.

[ECOLOG-L] Some resources re: Biodiversity

[Caryn Self-Sullivan]

The definition below is from one of the NCEP/AMNH synthesis documents,  
which I use with my students.  You can download the module "What is  
Biodiversity" (and dozens of other teaching conservation biology  
tools) online at:  http://ncep.amnh.org/   Follow the links to  
Resources then NCEP Modules & Resources.  Sometimes the best  
definitions for use with the public come from this secondary  
literature, which is written with the student in mind.  Species  
Richness is only one measurement of biodiversity, a term which is a  
shortened form of biological diversity.  The module talks about many  
ways to measure biodiversity, from population level to global level.   
I found that that population level biodiversity was a something my  
seniors didn't have a good perspective on until we did this module.


Biodiversity:  The variety of life on Earth at all its levels, from  
genes to ecosystems, and the ecological and evolutionary processes  
that sustain it. (from "What is Biodiversity."  (c) 2006 I.J.  
Harrison, M. F. Laverty and E.J. Sterling, available in English,  
French, Spanish, downloaded from http://ncep.amnh.org/ on 9/13/2010.



Caryn Self-Sullivan, Ph.D.
Email:  car...@sirenian.org
President & Co-Founder, Sirenian International, Inc.
200 Stonewall Drive, Fredericksburg, VA 22401-2110
Mobile:  540.287.8207  |  Fax:  888.371.4998

Visiting Assistant Professor
Department of Fisheries & Wildlife Sciences
College of Natural Resources & Environment
Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061-0321
Phone:  540.231.7740  |  Email:  car...@vt.edu
Office:  315B  Cheatham Hall
Office Hours:  T/Th 12:15-1:30 or by appointment

Adopt a Mermaid Ambassador or Donate online at 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.








On Dec 14, 2010, at 8:58 PM, Elizabeth Burnett wrote:


Euan and All,

I believe the basic definition of "biodiversity" is species richness  
or the number of species in a given ecosystem. I personally think of  
biodiversity in more complex terms, where there are a variety of  
living organisms that inhabit a variety of niches within an ecosystem.


I believe much of the public does understand this term (it is  
somewhat of a self-explanatory nature) but I think the obstacle is  
lack of appreciation for biodiversity. I don't believe this  
appreciation or connection to biodiversity can be established on an  
individual level by a word alone. I think these things are  
established through individual interaction with this biodiversity.  
If this is true, perhaps we ought not find a new term to convey the  
importance of species diversity to the public, but instead think of  
new experiences they could participate in that would allow them to  
understand and appreciate biodiversity on a deeper level, as we do.


Even with all the proper education on the workings of ecosystems,  
some people will likely not care to preserve/conserve. For many,  
they must experience these connections on a deeper, more personal  
level. This idea is and has been established in the connections  
between people and outdoor recreation as well as people and "nature"  
art (painting, writing, etc.).



E Burnett
- Original Message -
From: "Euan Ritchie" 
To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU
Sent: Monday, December 13, 2010 6:05:31 PM GMT -05:00 US/Canada  
Eastern
Subject: [ECOLOG-L] Defining biodiversity, and does the term capture  
the public's attention?


Hi everyone,

I have just returned from the Ecological Society of Australia  
meeting and among other issues, there was much discussion about the  
term biodiversity. Many people argue that this term is hard to  
define, and importantly, the public have no idea what it actually  
means and therefore they have less connection/concern to preserve/ 
conserve species and habitats. I thought it would be interesting to  
hear how others define biodiversity, and if this term isn't helpful  
for conveying the importance of species diversity to the public,  
what term(s) should we use?


Over to you,

Euan


Dr. Euan G. Ritchie, Lecturer in Ecology, School of Life and  
Environmental Sciences

Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, 3125, Australia.
Building T, Room T3.09.3
Phone: 03 9251 7606 International: +61 3 9251 7606
Mobile: 041 888 2992
Fax: 03 9251 7626 International: +61 3 9251 7626
Email: e.ritc...@deakin.edu.au
Skype:  euanritchie
Website: http://www.deakin.edu.au/scitech/les/staff/ritchiee/
Deakin University CRICOS Provider Code 00113B

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[ECOLOG-L] Catalina Island Volunteering - Organic Gardening

[Ryan Shepherd]

Camp Emerald Bay is looking for a qualified volunteer to spend several 
months on Catalina Island, helping us as we develop an environmental 
program for the thousands of young adults we host every year. The 
volunteer's primarily responsibility will be to maintain and develop our 
garden and compost facility, which has 350 sq. ft. of planter beds. 
Other work can be tailored to meet the individual’s learning objectives.


Emerald Bay is a camp located on the west end of the island, off the 
California coast. A far cry from the bustling tourist destination of 
Avalon, the West End offers camp staff unparalleled opportunities for 
hiking, trail running, swimming, snorkeling, mountain biking, kayaking, 
camping, and many more activities. A 'run into town' requires some 
planning, as the nearest town of Two Harbors is a 30-minute drive down 
dirt roads; but the island's spectacular beauty and atmosphere more than 
make up for any lack of modern conveniences.


The full announcement is available here:
http://www.campemeraldbay.org/system/files/emeraldbay/Garden_Volunteer_Announcement.pdf

Please contact Ryan Shepherd at ebgreent...@gmail.com to request an 
application. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis, with 
priority given to early applicants. Acceptance is usually announced two 
months prior to start date.


--
Ecology and Conservation Program
Camp Emerald Bay
ebgreent...@gmail.com

[ECOLOG-L] 3 Postdoctoral positions in Applied Conservation Science

[Rebecca Lewison]

The Institute of Ecological Monitoring and 
Management (http://iemm.sdsu.edu) has funding for 
three postdoctoral research scientists in applied 
conservation science and management. Each 
position has funding for two years, with 
potential for renewal. The research scientists 
will join a team of faculty in the Department of 
Biology at San Diego State University in an 
ongoing project to develop and implement 
multi-species monitoring and management programs. 
In collaboration with local agency scientists, 
land managers and government officials, the research scientists will
· Design single species and 
ecosystem-level conceptual models, monitoring programs, and management plans
· Develop monitoring and data analysis 
protocols to support management actions
· Author peer-reviewed literature on 
emerging topics in applied conservation science

· Facilitate workshops and multi-stakeholder meetings
· Train agency staff in field and analytical methods
· Support grant-writing efforts to 
implement monitoring and management needs


Candidates must have
· A PhD in ecology, conservation, or related field
· Experience in applied conservation science and management
· Excellent written and oral communication skills
· Grant writing experience

To build a research team, we will select 
candidates with complementary skill sets. These 
include: a strong background in statistical and 
other quantitative analyses, scientific writing, 
database management, GIS and related 
computational skills, conservation policy, and 
field sampling methods. Applicants must be able 
to synthesize and critically evaluate existing 
information from multiple sources including 
expert opinion, agency documents, technical 
reports and peer-reviewed literature. We 
particularly encourage applicants with experience 
in multi-species and ecosystem conservation efforts.


Review of applications to commence on Jan 10 and 
will continue until positions are filled. Please 
send your statement of interest, CV, names of 3 
professional references, and a recent writing 
sample to i...@sdsu.edu


Drs. Rebecca Lewison 
rlewi...@sciences.sdsu.edu 
& Doug Deutschman 
d...@sciences.sdsu.edu, 
San Diego State University



Rebecca Lewison, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Biology Dept
San Diego State University
5500 Campanile Dr
San Diego, CA 92182
rlewi...@sunstroke.sdsu.edu
Phone: (619) 594-8287
Fax: (619) 594-5676

[ECOLOG-L] NSF-REU at Georgia Tech

[Benita Black]

We will be hosting 9 NSF-REU participants this summer at Georgia Tech 
focusing loosely on the theme of Aquatic Chemical Ecology.  We would like 
to ask for your help in publicizing this program to undergraduates.

Our program website is http://www.biology.gatech.edu/undergraduate-
program/reu/ 
including program details, application process, and contact information. 

Our research theme of Aquatic Chemical Ecology has 3 core areas of 
research from which students can choose: Biological and geochemical 
transformations of chemicals in aquatic ecosystems; Sensory biology and 
ecology of aquatic chemical communication; Ecological roles and 
consequences of chemicals in aquatic environments.  This program is an 
excellent choice for undergraduates majoring in any field of biology, 
chemistry, earth/ocean science, civil engineering, environmental 
engineering, chemical engineering, and related bioengineering areas who 
want to apply their classroom learning to an interdisciplinary research 
environment to solve complex scientific problems and learn about the 
importance of chemically-mediated processes.   

The application deadline is February 15, 2011.  The full-time, 10-week 
program will start in late May and run until the end of July.  
Participants will receive a stipend of $4500 plus accommodations with 
kitchen facilities in university housing, and help with travel expenses to 
and from Atlanta. 

Students can go to our website to get more information and to apply.  Any 
U.S. citizen or permanent resident who is currently enrolled in an 
undergraduate degree program is eligible, unless they have already been 
part of an NSF-REU program in Ocean Sciences or unless they will graduate 
before this summer.  We are particularly interested in increasing our 
proportion of minority students and in reaching students at non-PhD 
granting universities.   

We hope that you can send us your bright, curious, and motivated students!

[ECOLOG-L] Call for Applications: NIMBioS REU/REV Summer Program

[Catherine Crawley]

The National Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis
(NIMBioS) is now taking applications for its 8-week long summer research
program for undergraduates (REU) and veterinary students (REV)
interested in research at the interface between mathematics and biology.
The program takes place May 31- July 22, 2010 on the University of
Tennessee, Knoxville, campus. Undergraduate majors in biology, math, and
related fields,veterinary students, and high school math and biology
teachers will live on campus and work in teams with UTK faculty. Disease
modeling, population dynamics, behavioral ecology and intracellular
transport processes are among this year's research topics. Stipend and
housing are provided along with some funding for travel.

* Application Deadline:  February 18, 2011*

To apply to the Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU), go to
http://www.nimbios.org/education/reu2011

To apply to the Research Experience for Veterinary Students (REV), go to
http://www.nimbios.org/education/rev2011

To read about the experiences of past participants, go to
http://www.nimbios.org/press/reu_profiles2010

For more information about NIMBioS, go to http://www.nimbios.org or
contact Kelly Moran, NIMBioS Education and Outreach Coordinator, at
kmo...@nimbios.org or Suzanne Lenhart, NIMBioS Associate Director of
Education, Outreach and Diversity, NIMBioS, lenh...@math.utk.edu

-- 
Catherine Crawley, Ph.D.
Communications Coordinator
National Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS)
University of Tennessee
1534 White Avenue
Knoxville, TN 37996-1527
Phone: (865) 974-9350
Fax: (865) 974-9461
Email: ccraw...@nimbios.org
http://www.nimbios.org
http://twitter.com/nimbios

Re: [ECOLOG-L] Defining biodiversity, and does the term capture the public's attention?

[Elizabeth Burnett]

Euan and All,

I believe the basic definition of "biodiversity" is species richness or the 
number of species in a given ecosystem. I personally think of biodiversity in 
more complex terms, where there are a variety of living organisms that inhabit 
a variety of niches within an ecosystem. 

I believe much of the public does understand this term (it is somewhat of a 
self-explanatory nature) but I think the obstacle is lack of appreciation for 
biodiversity. I don't believe this appreciation or connection to biodiversity 
can be established on an individual level by a word alone. I think these things 
are established through individual interaction with this biodiversity. If this 
is true, perhaps we ought not find a new term to convey the importance of 
species diversity to the public, but instead think of new experiences they 
could participate in that would allow them to understand and appreciate 
biodiversity on a deeper level, as we do. 

Even with all the proper education on the workings of ecosystems, some people 
will likely not care to preserve/conserve. For many, they must experience these 
connections on a deeper, more personal level. This idea is and has been 
established in the connections between people and outdoor recreation as well as 
people and "nature" art (painting, writing, etc.).   


E Burnett
- Original Message -
From: "Euan Ritchie" 
To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU
Sent: Monday, December 13, 2010 6:05:31 PM GMT -05:00 US/Canada Eastern
Subject: [ECOLOG-L] Defining biodiversity, and does the term capture the 
public's attention?

Hi everyone,

I have just returned from the Ecological Society of Australia meeting and among 
other issues, there was much discussion about the term biodiversity. Many 
people argue that this term is hard to define, and importantly, the public have 
no idea what it actually means and therefore they have less connection/concern 
to preserve/conserve species and habitats. I thought it would be interesting to 
hear how others define biodiversity, and if this term isn't helpful for 
conveying the importance of species diversity to the public, what term(s) 
should we use?

Over to you,

Euan


Dr. Euan G. Ritchie, Lecturer in Ecology, School of Life and Environmental 
Sciences
Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, 3125, Australia.
Building T, Room T3.09.3
Phone: 03 9251 7606 International: +61 3 9251 7606
Mobile: 041 888 2992
Fax: 03 9251 7626 International: +61 3 9251 7626
Email: e.ritc...@deakin.edu.au
Skype:  euanritchie
Website: http://www.deakin.edu.au/scitech/les/staff/ritchiee/
Deakin University CRICOS Provider Code 00113B

Important Notice: The contents of this email are intended solely for the named 
addressee and are confidential; any unauthorised use, reproduction or storage 
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[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Assistantships (MS or PhD) in Forest Soil Carbon Dynamics and Gas Fluxes at Virginia Tech

[Brian Strahm]

Graduate Research Assistantship in

Forest Soil Carbon Dynamics and Gas Fluxes

Department of Forest Resources and Environmental Conservation
Virginia Tech

The Department of Forest Resources and Environmental Conservation at
Virginia Tech is seeking applicants for a USDA-funded graduate research
assistantship (MS or PhD) expected to begin in the summer or fall of 2011.

Research will focus on understanding the temporal and spatial variability in
soil CO2 efflux in a novel bioenergy production system where traditional
loblolly pine silviculture is intercropped with switchgrass as a cellulosic
feedstock.  Additional research will center on partitioning
autotrophic/heterotrophic soil respiration, characterizing the fluxes of
other greenhouse gasses (N2O, CH4), investigating soil organic matter
stability, and using stable isotope (13C) techniques to understand the fate
and fluxes of switchgrass-derived C.

This research is part of a large collaborative effort between Weyerhaeuser,
NC State University, Virginia Tech and the US Forest Service that will allow
the student a great opportunity to establish contacts with a diverse group
of scientists.

Research assistantships include a full tuition waiver, benefits, and a
competitive annual stipend including summer support (~$19,000 - $21,000). 
For more information on the graduate program in the Department of Forest
Resources and Environmental Conservation at Virginia Tech, please visit:
www.frec.vt.edu.

Interested students should contact:

Dr. Brian D. Strahm
Assistant Professor of Forest Soils and Ecology
Department of Forest Resources and Environmental Conservation
228 Cheatham Hall (0324)
Virginia Tech
Blacksburg, VA  24061
540-231-8627
brian.str...@vt.edu
www.soils.frec.vt.edu

[ECOLOG-L] Assistant Professor in Ecology

[Matt Forister]

Dear Colleagues, the University of Nevada, Reno, is advertising for an 
Ecologist position (assistant 
professor), please see description below and feel free to contact me with 
questions.  Matt Forister, 
foris...@gmail.com.


The Biology Department at the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) has targeted 
EECB (ecology, 
evolution, and conservation biology) as a strategic focus for growth and is 
seeking:

An ECOLOGIST - Assistant Professor (tenure track)

The position is open with regard to area of specialization. The department’s 
areas of research 
excellence include conservation biology, conservation and evolutionary 
genetics, behavioral 
ecology, and evolutionary ecology. Our EECB faculty are well funded by diverse 
sources, including 
NSF and NIH. 

Applicants for this position should have expertise that complements and expands 
the research 
capacity of the department. The successful candidate will be provided with a 
competitive start-up 
package and will be expected to maintain nationally recognized, extramurally 
funded research 
programs. The Department has 765 majors, 45 MS and PhD students, and 24 
state-funded faculty. 
In addition, a new interdisciplinary program in Neuroscience supports 114 
majors. Reno sits on the 
eastern flank of the Sierra Nevada in close proximity to desert and montane 
field sites and to Lake 
Tahoe, and it was recently rated one of the best small cities in the US for 
overall quality of life. 
Applicants should apply online at www.unrsearch.com, where they should submit 
an application 
letter, a curriculum vitae, a statement of research plans, a statement of 
teaching interests and 
philosophy, and contact information for three references. Please see 
https://www.unrsearch.com/postings/8591 for additional details.  Applications 
received by 21 
January 2010 will receive full consideration.  Start date for the position is 
fall semester 2011.

Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action. Women and underrepresented 
groups are 
encouraged to apply.