[ECOLOG-L] ESA Graduate Student Policy Award for Congressional Visits Day event
2011 ESA Graduate Student Policy Award for Congressional Visits Day Applications due Thursday, January 20, 2011 The Ecological Society of America (ESA) invites applications for its 2011 Graduate Student Policy Award (GSPA). Offered each year, this award gives graduate students hands-on science policy experience including interacting with congressional decision-makers, federal agency officials, and others engaged in science and public policy. The Society's GSPA is given to up to three applicants. Winners participate in the annual Congressional Visits Day, a two-day event that will be held March 30 and 31, 2011. ESA covers travel and lodging expenses associated with this event for all GSPA recipients. Awardees also have the opportunity to be interviewed for ESA's podcast, The Ecologist Goes to Washington and for ESA's blog, Ecotone. ESA is co-organizer of Congressional Visits Day, sponsored by the Biological Ecological Sciences Coalition to promote federal investment in the biological sciences, particularly through the National Science Foundation. Participants receive tips on effective communication and information on the federal budget and appropriations process. During the second day of the event, participants meet with congressional decision makers to discuss federal support of research and education in the biological sciences. Eligibility: Applicants must be ESA members and United States citizens residing in the country. Past GSPA recipients are not eligible. To Apply: Send to p...@esa.org by close of business, Thursday, January 20, 2011: - A cover letter outlining your interest in science policy and relevant experience - A one-page statement that reflects your insights and perspective on the importance of federal support of science and ecology in particular. Extra credit for examples of ecological success stories (i.e. where investment of federal dollars had a tangible return, particularly for your home state). -A one-page resume Applicants will be notified of decisions by early February 2011. Please direct questions to p...@esa.org. To hear the insights of last year's ESA GSPA winners, visit the links below: http://www.esa.org/egwash/?p=184 (Alexis Erwin, Cornell University. Investing for the Future: Federal Science Funding and its Benefits for Communities) http://www.esa.org/egwash/?p=177 (Colin Phifer, University of Hawaii-Hilo. Talking Story: Using Narrative to bring Ecology Home) http://www.esa.org/egwash/?p=164 (Patrick Shirey, Notre Dame. Asian Carp Two Ways: The Politics and Science of Ecological Risks) Nadine Lymn Director of Public Affairs Ecological Society of America 1990 M Street, NW Suite 700 Washington DC 20036 202.833.8773 ext. 205 202.833.8775 Fax Please consider the environment before printing this email. Thank you.
[ECOLOG-L] Call for Applications: NIMBioS Investigative Workshop on Malaria Modeling and Control
The National Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS) is now accepting applications for its *Malaria Modeling and Control Investigative Workshop *to be held June 15-17, 2011, at NIMBioS. Objectives: Malaria is a life-threatening parasitic disease, transmitted by mosquitoes. In 2008, 243 million malaria cases led to about 863000 deaths, a slight drop from 2006 statistics. This slight drop in mortality resulted from a number of improved policies: increased international funding for research and healthcare, provision of insecticide-treated bednets, and a revival of support for indoor residential insecticide spraying. Despite this slight drop, challenges like drug resistance, the global financial slow-down and changing climatic conditions pose a threat to malaria control efforts. Mathematical models continue to play a major role in studies of malaria transmission dynamics and control. Although existing models have advanced our understanding of malaria, new models are urgently needed to capture new challenges to malaria control. Of note, there are increasing reports of malaria even in places where it had been eradicated. A model that captures mosquito dynamics with respect to current climatic changes, incorporates the use of a potential vaccine, and reflects the economic burden of the malaria-afflicted nations can inform policy makers on the most effective combination of control tools. Such a model can therefore help to reduce the malaria burden significantly, as well as contribute to finding a means to eradicate malaria in the near future. This workshop will bring together experts in the mathematics and biology of malaria dynamics to discuss cutting-edge approaches to modeling malaria transmission and control, with the goal of forming a global Working Group to develop a model that would incorporate pertinent workshop questions. The workshop will address the following questions: 1. How effective are present malaria control measures? What can be done to eradicate malaria in the near future? Can we generate a timeline? 2. What is the current state of things with malaria modeling? How do we capture the dynamics of the mosquito population to reflect climatic changes and global warming issues in order to produce an accurate model that represents the dynamics of the vector population? 3. What is the most realistic combination of control schemes that take into account feasibility and the health and economy of endemic areas most affected by malaria? 4. Will control mechanisms be more effective if based on the make-up of the population at risk- for instance genetic makeup and other physical properties such as high attractants to mosquitoes? What factors are more pertinent to consider in this regard? 5. How can vaccines be effectively captured in a malaria model that addresses questions 3 and 4 and can advance and provide answers to question 1? *Location: *NIMBioS at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville *Co-Organizers: *Miranda I. Teboh-Ewungkem (Dept. of Mathematics, Lafayette College, Easton, PA); Folashade Agusto (NIMBioS, Univ. Tennessee, Knoxville); Frederick Baliraine (Univ. California, San Francisco, Dept. of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, San Francisco General Hospital) For more information about the workshop and a link to the online application form, go to http://www.nimbios.org/workshops/WS_malaria_modeling If needed, applicants may request travel and lodging support. Participation is limited, and those selected to attend will be notified within two weeks of the application deadline. *Application deadline: March 13, 2011* The National Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS) brings together researchers from around the world to collaborate across disciplinary boundaries to investigate solutions to basic and applied problems in the life sciences. NIMBioS is sponsored by the National Science Foundation, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture with additional support from The University of Tennessee, Knoxville. 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 /To receive email notifications of blog updates, click here. http://www.nimbios.org/wordpress/subscribe2updates/ To sign up to receive our bi-monthly newsletter, click here. http://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/manage/optin/ea?v=001RgvbKVLa7a4Psoj8H7c43A%3D%3D/
[ECOLOG-L] Lichen Podcast from the Encyclopedia of Life (Updated)
One Species at a Time Podcast Series from the Encyclopedia of Life Lichens Xanthoparmelia plittii and Umbilicaria mammulata Most of us walk past lichen-covered rocks, splotched with grays, greens, and golds, without giving them a closer look. Ari Daniel Shapiro visits with mycologist Anne Pringle and graudate student Benjamin Wolfe to learn about these amazing symbiotic organisms, formed when a fungus partners with an algae. Each lichen can host an entire microcosm, a microbial landscape teeming with life. These worlds-within-worlds are proving an invaluable tool for scientists studying our changing landscapes. Listen to the podcast on the Learning + Education section of the Encyclopedia of Life! http://education.eol.org/podcast/lichens About the Encyclopedia of Life The Encyclopedia of Life is a collaborative effort among scientist and the general public to bring information together about all 1.9 million named and known species, in a common format, freely available on the internet. Learn more at www.eol.org
[ECOLOG-L] Land Health Assessment/Range Technician
Contract length: April 4, 2011 October 14, 2011; potential for extension pending funding and performance review. Rate of Pay: $8,457 living stipend + $2,675 education award Field Course: Participate an undergraduate/graduate-level field-based environmental methods course on the Black Rock NCA Location: Positions will be filled in each of the five following BLM Nevada Districts: Battle Mountain, Carson City, Elko, Ely, Las Vegas, and Winnemucca. Terrain is typical of the Great Basin with wide long valleys bordered by mountain ranges. Field conditions include hot, arid days with high exposure to the sun, as well as cold, damp winter weather. Resources include big game habitat, Wilderness Study Areas, active grazing allotments, abandoned mine lands, historic and prehistoric cultural sites, and wild horse management areas. Position Objectives: The Great Basin Institute, in cooperation with the Bureau of Land Management Battle Mountain, Carson City, Elko, Ely, Las Vegas, and Winnemucca District Offices, is recruiting range technicians for six (6) land health assessment teams. Teams will consist of three to four members including a GIS Lead. Each team will be comprised of environmental scientists (ecologists) having diverse areas of training and expertise to work cooperatively in a field based setting. The overall objective of the team is to perform land health assessments through inventory and monitoring (Proper Functioning Condition) of the geomorphic, hydrologic and vegetative characteristics; water quality and quantity sampling; wildlife habitat monitoring for Sage Grouse (endangered species candidate) and other indicator species. Data are utilized for management and adaptive management decisions, restoration projects, and/or to improve sage grouse habitat to achieve a healthy and productive ecological condition. The principle purpose of this project is to generate an understanding of the process used to develop land health assessments, including the data capture and evaluation. Duties: General field duties include walking long distances over uneven terrain, assessing the physical processes of the stream corridor or meadow/spring features, collecting GPS points, observing and monitoring wildlife, identifying vegetative demographics and distribution, collecting water samples and water quality data, and taking photo-points. The Range Tech will also collaborate with the GIS Lead, GBI staff and the district BLM staff for project planning, equipment organization and maintenance, and data QA/QC. The successful applicants will have good communication skills (both verbal and written) and be team oriented. Office tasks may include assisting with data organization, processing and QA/QC; post-processing GPS points; and contributing to report writing. Qualifications: Bachelors degree in one of the major natural sciences applicants with advanced degrees encouraged to apply; Understanding of basic principles related to the fields of botany, soil science, wildlife biology, geology, and/or hydrology; Applicants should possess relevant or related field experience knowledge of and/or experience working in sage grouse habitat and/or high desert ecology, preferable; Ability to navigate and set a bearing using a compass and to read a topographical map; Ability to collect, QA/QC, and post-process data using handheld GPS units, preferred; Experience using ArcGIS 9.x/10.0, preferred; Ability to communicate effectively, both written and orally, with a diverse audience; Physically fit to work outdoors, carry personal and field equipment, and withstand working and camping in inclement weather during summer, fall, and/or early winter in northern Nevada; Possess a clean, valid, state-issued drivers license and the ability to operate a 4WD vehicle on and off paved roads; and Meet AmeriCorps eligibility requirements: (1) U.S. citizenship or legal resident alien status, (2) eligible to receive an AmeriCorps Education Award (limit of four in a lifetime or the equivalent of two full-time education awards), and (3) pass National Sex Offender Public Registry (NSOPR) and federal criminal background checks. 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.
[ECOLOG-L] Renewable Energy Land Health Assessment Lead
Renewable Energy Land Health Assessment Lead Contract length: March 7, 2011 November 18, 2011; potential for extension pending funding and performance review Rate of Pay: $17.00/hour Benefits: Health insurance, Paid personal leave, Participate in 400/600-level field-based environmental methods course on the Black Rock NCA. Location: The successful applicant will be selected and assigned to the Las Vegas BLM district in southern Nevada. Terrain is typical of the Great Basin with wide long valleys bordered by mountain ranges. Field conditions include hot, arid days with high exposure to the sun, as well as cold, damp winter weather. Resources include big game habitat, Wilderness Study Areas, active grazing allotments, abandoned mine lands, historic and prehistoric cultural sites, and wild horse management areas. Position Objectives: The Great Basin Institute, in cooperation with the Bureau of Land Management Las Vegas District Office, is recruiting one (1) experienced environmental scientist (ecologist) to work cooperatively as District Lead on a four-person interdisciplinary field team. The overall objective of the team is to perform land health assessments through inventory and monitoring (Proper Functioning Condition) of the geomorphic, hydrologic and vegetative characteristics; water quality and quantity sampling; wildlife habitat monitoring. Data are utilized to assess land health in areas having high potential for renewable energy development and to inform management decisions for clean energy efforts on public lands. The principle purpose of this project is to generate an understanding of the process used to develop land health assessments, including the data capture and evaluation. Duties: General field duties include walking long distances over uneven terrain, assessing the physical processes of the stream corridor or meadow/spring features, collecting GPS points, observing and monitoring wildlife, identifying vegetative demographics and distribution, collecting water samples and water quality data, and taking photo-points. The District Lead will also coordinate with the GBI Program Lead and the BLM Lead for project planning, equipment organization and maintenance, vehicle coordination, field protocol and data QA/QC, and team deployment and supervision. The successful applicants must have strong communication skills (both verbal and written) and exhibit strong leadership and organization skills. Office tasks include data organization, processing and QA/QC; post-processing GPS points; utilizing GIS to edit polygons as well as point and line data; and to create reports with GIS maps, pictures and concise field notes. This position requires advanced GIS skills in ArcGIS 9.x and related mapping software and will play a vital role in facilitating the effective and efficient collection of monitoring data. This position will require pre-season travel to and from field sites with occasional camping in order to ground truth transect start points and to ensure that all transects are successfully completed during the field season and may require long hours including early mornings and weekends. Qualifications: Bachelors degree in one of the major natural sciences applicants with advanced degrees encouraged to apply; Understanding of basic principles related to the fields of botany, soil science, wildlife biology, geology, and/or hydrology; Applicants should possess relevant or related field experience knowledge of and/or experience working in desert ecology, preferable; Knowledge of or experience with land mitigation for renewable energy development and/or clean energy efforts (i.e. solar, geothermal) preferable; Ability to navigate and set a bearing using a compass and to read a topographical map; Ability to collect, QA/QC, and post-process data using handheld GPS units, required; Possess a clear understanding of GIS theory and applications, including experience with ArcGIS 9.x to create maps, manipulate and analyze data, and generate reports; Ability to communicate effectively, both written and orally, with a diverse audience; Physically fit to work outdoors, carry personal and field equipment, and withstand working and camping in inclement weather during summer, fall, and/or early winter in northern Nevada; Possess a clean, valid, state-issued drivers license and the ability to operate a 4WD vehicle on and off paved roads; and Meet requirements of federal agency security background checks (e.g.: FBI criminal and National Sex Offender Public Registry) 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.
[ECOLOG-L] Job: Natural History Biologist Assistant
Temporary Full-time, Natural History Biologist Assistant, Ozark Region, West Plains 65775 Duties: The assistant will work with the Natural History Biologist to treat invasive plants on Natural Areas, conduct rare plant and animal surveys, submit Element Occurrence Records to the Heritage database, monitor federally endangered pondberry (Lindera melissifolia), and perform other duties as required. Dates: March 7 – Sept 23, 2011 Pay Rate: $10.73/hr. Hours: 40 hrs/week Housing may be provided. Required qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resources related field. Field botany and/or taxonomy or equivalent; basic familiarity with Ozark flora and fauna. Valid driver’s license. Ability to navigate using topo maps and GPS. Ability to work in harsh field conditions, including hiking in steep terrain. Ability to lift 50 pounds. Positive attitude and a strong desire to learn about the Ozark natural communities. Preferred qualifications: Experience using ArcGIS. Chainsaw experience. Application instructions: Please send cover letter, resume and copies of transcripts (unofficial copies are fine) to the contact below. Submission by email is preferred. DEADLINE: February 1, 2011 Susan Farrington Natural History Biologist - Ozark Region Missouri Department of Conservation 551 Joe Jones Blvd West Plains, MO 65775 (417) 255-9561 x 307 susan.farring...@mdc.mo.gov
[ECOLOG-L] Postdoctoral position in Ecology at Arizona State University
Post Doctoral Research Associate in Ecology School of Life Sciences Arizona State University Closing date: January 31, 2011 Start Date: April, 2011 Responsibilities: We seek a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to lead an NSF-funded project that aims to understand how water and energy limitation determine species interactions and trophic structure in riparian food webs along the San Pedro River in southeastern Arizona. The larger project goal is to link declining surface flows and groundwater levels in the San Pedro basin to individual water budgets and the abundance and diversity of animals in riparian ecosystems. This will be accomplished using a diverse set of methods in community and physiological ecology including lab and field measurement of metabolic and water use rates and large scale field experiments involving invertebrate and vertebrate animals. Thus there is ample opportunity for the successful candidate to expand knowledge and toolsets into the related fields of eco- physiology and eco-hydrology. The selected applicant will perform the following tasks: 1. Spearhead and coordinate a large scale, replicated field experiment designed to ascertain the role of groundwater in determining patterns of abundance, interaction strength, and trophic structure of animals in above-ground food webs in desert floodplains. 2. Collect and analyze samples of all members of the riparian food web for energy content (via calorimetry) and water content (via gravimetric methods). 3. Learn lab methods related to analyzing the composition of stable isotopes of water (2H and 18O) in body waters of animals. 4. Advise and manage a large team of undergraduate and graduate personnel in rugged field conditions during a spring-summer field research program 5. Perform essential administrative duties associated with the project, including financial reporting, progress reports and project collaboration 6. Actively publish in scientific journals, present research at society meetings, and interact regularly with other faculty in related fields at ASU The successful applicant will be advised by Dr. John Sabo and work closely with partners at ASU (Jon Harrison, Senior Personnel on award) and staff at the Gray Hawk Nature Center, a non-profit K-12 environmental education NGO who provide us with access to our primary field site. Qualifications: PhD in ecology, environmental physiology, ecohydrology or related field. Applicants must exhibit strong quantitative and communication skills, demonstrated ability to publish in peer‐reviewed journals, and a proven record of leadership and ability to coordinate large research programs. Location: The position will be located within the School of Life Sciences (SoLS) at Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona. SoLS includes ~100 faculty, 200 graduate students, a well developed undergraduate research enrichment program, and about 300 administrative and research staff. John Sabo is a member of the Faculty of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Sciences, one of six faculty groups in SoLS. SoLS has demonstrated research strengths in both ecosystem and physiological ecology. The research to be undertaken by the successful candidate will bridge these two strengths by linking water budgets of watersheds and animals to understand components of food web structure. The San Pedro River (primary research site) is one of the last free-flowing rivers in the western US supporting cottonwood-willow gallery forest along its shores. The river also provides an important stopover for an estimated 2-4 million migratory birds, has extremely high richness of birds, mammals, and reptiles, and supports endangered species such as the southwest willow flycatcher. Thus, this area is of considerable conservation concern and of notable aesthetic value. Salary: $36,200 annually plus benefits; funded for 1-2 years contingent on performance and funding. Contact: To apply email a cover letter that addresses your interest, experience (in response to the requirements stated above) and future career goals, curriculum vitae, most relevant (3) publications (PDF), and contact information for at least three references to: Dr. John Sabo, School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University at john.l.s...@asu.edu. Screening of applicants will occur immediately and will continue until a suitable candidate is found. A background check is required for employment. Arizona State University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer committed to excellence through diversity. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. For ASU's complete non-discrimination statement point your browser to: https://www.asu.edu/titleIX/. More information about John Sabo’s research can be found at the following URLs: Sabo: http://sols.asu.edu/people/faculty/jsabo.php Sabo Lab:
[ECOLOG-L] Reminder--Abstracts, Early Registrations Due Jan 14--Bay Area Conservation Biology Symposium, Feb 12
REMINDER: Call for Registration and Abstract Submission! Deadline for abstract submission is Jan 14. Register by Jan 14 to avoid registration fee increases. Please see www.bacbs2011.org. February 12, 2011 13th Annual Bay Area Conservation Biology Symposium Conservation in the Matrix: Ecological and Social Implications of Conservation Beyond Protected Areas Hosted by UC Berkeley at the International House Saturday, February 12th, 2011 8:00am - 6:00pm Features: Ivette Perfecto, University of Michigan Professor, Author of Nature's Matrix: Linking Agriculture, Conservation and Food Sovereignty Michelle Marvier, Santa Clara University Professor, Author of Conservation Science: Balancing the Needs of People and Nature Joel Reynolds, senior attorney at Natural Resources Defense Council and director of NRDC's Urban Program, Marine Mammal Protection, and Southern California Ecosystem projects Graduate Student Presentations in a breadth of topics Networking lunch Wine and Cheese Reception Registration: Student $25 Faculty/Professional $45 Online registration is open! www.bacbs2011.org This one-day conference is the major gathering for hundreds of individuals from the Bay Area region interested or actively engaged in conservation featuring graduate student work as well as distinguished speakers!
[ECOLOG-L] General Principles of Ecology for Undergraduates
Ecolog: I teach a sophomore/junior level general ecology course for undergraduates in Biology. My university is requiring faculty to develop Student Learning Objectives for all courses- these are suppose to list the core ideas that the course will deliver. This list has to be brief enough to fit as a small part of a syllabus- and it has to be clear enough that an inexperienced undergraduate can grasp. I have ~6 general ecology texts on my shelf, and have taught the course before, but this seems like a good opportunity to think broadly about what I am delivering to the students. I am wondering if there is some universal standard for Ecology. Does ESA have a list? Does anyone on this listserve know of any good source material? Thanks, Ryan McEwan Department of Biology The University of Dayton 300 College Park Dayton, OH 45469-2320 Lab: http://academic.udayton.edu/ryanmcewan
[ECOLOG-L] Wildlife Data Specialist
Position announcement: Wildlife Data Specialist Job Description: The Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation at the University of Florida Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center in Davie, Florida is seeking an enthusiastic individual to work as part of a multi-agency team modeling potential effects of climate change on biodiversity. Duties Include: This individuals primary responsibility will be to assist in the ongoing use, maintenance, and expansion of a database warehousing information describing climate effects on endangered species. This database is a key resource for the development and interpretation of species distribution models we are creating to support decision making by natural resource managers. Our collaborators include scientists and managers from the University of Florida, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Geological Survey, and the National Park Service. We anticipate that the database will be used for other purposes by current and future collaborators, so the person in this position will maintain regular and ongoing communication with individuals from other state, federal and research institutions. Specific duties will include mining the existing database for information and serving as an in-house species expert, advising on model development and interpretation in light of what is known about climate effects on our focal species. The ideal candidate will be motivated to use this knowledge to development publications exploring how species traits mediate responses to climate change. Additional duties will include expansion of the database, acquiring primary literature and government documents and extracting relevant data from those sources, data entry, QA/QC and assisting in development of optimal data structure for specific tasks and users. This is a two year temporary full time position with possible extension dependent on performance and funding. Qualifications: Applicant should have a Masters degree in ecology, wildlife biology, zoology, or related field and demonstrated experience with database development. Applicant must be able to work well independently and with others in a fast-paced environment. Individuals should be comfortable working across agency boundaries, making excellent written and oral communication skills essential for this position. The ideal candidate will have experience publishing in the scientific literature. Problem solving skills and good ecological knowledge are essential. Applicant must be eligible to work in the United States and have all paperwork completed prior to accepting the position. Salary: $17.00-20.00/hour depending on experience Position Starts: As soon as a suitable candidate can be identified. Review of applications will start immediately. To Apply: Please send resume or CV and letter of interest by email to: Dr. James Watling, watli...@ufl.edu, with the subject line Wildlife Data Specialist. In your letter please address how you have worked as part of a team, your database experience, research experience with endangered species and/or climate change issues, and examples of your ability to synthesize information and communicate it to a range of audiences. AA/EA/EEO. If an accommodation is needed to apply for this position, please call 954.577.6304
[ECOLOG-L] Workshop: Coevolution and the ecological structure of plant-insect communities
When Ehrlich and Raven published their now classic study of coevolution between butterflies and plants in 1964, the link between the development of coevolutionary theory and plant-insect interactions was cemented. Since this time, numerous studies of plant-insect interactions have revealed an important role for coevolution, even as the perceived importance of coevolution for the overall structure of plant-insect communities has waxed and waned. Currently, much of the research on the ecology and evolution of plant-insect interactions, both mutualistic and antagonistic, is expanding from simpler two-species frameworks to consider coevolution in the context of multispecies communities and networks. During the week of April 4-8 a workshop on coevolution and the ecological structure of plant-insect communities will be held at the Mathematical Biosciences Institute (MBI) in Columbus, Ohio. The central goal of this workshop will be to identify and develop promising new mathematical, computational, and statistical approaches for studying coevolution by fostering interactions and cross-talk between individuals using empirical and mathematical/computational approaches. Logistically, the workshop will be structured around a core of 16 talks, a poster session, and a panel discussion. To see more information about the workshop and a list of confirmed speakers, visit the workshop web page at http://mbi.osu.edu/2010/ws5description.html. The workshop is open to any interested participants and participation by graduate students and post-docs studying coevolution from a theoretical or empirical perspective is particularly encouraged. Limited funds are available from the MBI to defray the cost of workshop participation for graduate students. In order to register for this workshop and to request financial support, click on the “apply for event” tab on the workshop web page http://mbi.osu.edu/2010/ws5description.html. The application deadline for financial support is January 31.
[ECOLOG-L] short reading on scientific method and experimental design for undergraduate ecology course
I'm looking for one or two short readings on scientific method and experimental design for an undergraduate ecology course (mostly 2nd year students). Any suggestions? Somethings freely available and slightly entertaining would be great! Thanks, Anna Mosser aamos...@gmail.com
[ECOLOG-L] Microbial Metagenomics Summer Course
Microbial Metagenomics June 12th - June 25th, 2011 Michigan State University Learn state-of-the-art genomic methods to identify relationships between the structure and function of microbial communities A major goal of this course is to provide hands-on experience with some of the molecular and computational tools that can be used to study relationships between microbial communities and ecosystem functions. However, our vision for the course is to go beyond simply learning these techniques. You will apply them in an ongoing study of the effects of land use on the production of greenhouse gases, and hopefully develop ideas for their use in your own research. Morning lectures will discuss microbial and ecological principles underlying experiments that you will conduct during the afternoons. The laboratory sessions will include purification of DNA from soil for 454 pyrosequencing, quantitative PCR and assays for enzymatic activities. You will analyze sequence data with a suite of contemporary programs to measure community diversity, and use multivariate analyses to relate these structures to ecosystem function. Drs. Thomas Schmidt, Clegg Waldron and Jay Lennon of Michigan State University will teach this course. It is an intensive 2-week experience modeled after the internationally acclaimed MBL Microbial Diversity Course that Dr. Schmidt previously directed. Experiments will focus on links between denitrification genes and the production of N2O at the nearby Kellogg Biological Station Long Term Ecological Research Site (http://lter.kbs.msu.edu). Who can attend? This course is for advanced undergraduates, graduate students, and faculty. It can be taken as a three-credit course (MMG 490 or MMG 890, Section 432). What do I need to know in advance? We encourage diversity of backgrounds. The primary pre-requisite is a keen interest in adding molecular methods to your research. Familiarity with basic laboratory methods such as use of a pipetman and agarose gel electrophoresis is helpful. Where will it be held? Lectures and laboratory sessions will be held on the main campus of Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan, USA. Single-room accommodation is available on campus. When do I apply? Application is open until February 14th, 2011 at the site below. Additional information and application forms are available at: http://www.mmg.msu.edu/
[ECOLOG-L] SCALE 1.0.3 length slicing methodology?
Hi, I have a copy of SCALE 1.0.3 and I would like to do length-slicing with it. However, have found the instructions included to be rather confusing considering the rather simple appearing interface. If someone out there might have some simple, dumbed down instructions for the program or methodology, I would be eternally grateful. I am pretty sure that I am simply misunderstanding the interface, but this will work great for some data I have if I can master it. This isn't exactly rocket science, but heck, I'm not a rocket scientist either! :) Thank you in advance! -- Malcolm L. McCallum Managing Editor, Herpetological Conservation and Biology Peer pressure is designed to contain anyone with a sense of drive - Allan Nation 1880's: There's lots of good fish in the sea W.S. Gilbert 1990's: Many fish stocks depleted due to overfishing, habitat loss, and pollution. 2000: Marine reserves, ecosystem restoration, and pollution reduction MAY help restore populations. 2022: Soylent Green is People! Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message.
[ECOLOG-L] NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR THE E. O. WILSON NATURALIST AWARD
NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR THE E. O. WILSON NATURALIST AWARD In recognition of the lifetime of outstanding contributions of Professor E. O. Wilson in the areas of ecology and evolutionary biology, including the study of social insects, biodiversity, and biophilia, this award was established in the year of Professor Wilson's retirement from Harvard University. The E. O. Wilson Naturalist Award will be given to an active investigator in mid-career who has made significant contributions to the knowledge of a particular ecosystem or group of organisms. Individuals whose research and writing illuminate principles of evolutionary biology and an enhanced aesthetic appreciation of natural history will merit special consideration. Nominations for the award will be solicited on an annual basis, and a committee appointed by the president of the American Society of Naturalists will select recipients of the award. The award will consist of an especially appropriate work of art and an honorarium of $2,000, presented at the annual meeting of the American Society of Naturalists. For the 2010 E. O. Wilson Naturalist Award, a nomination packet, including a letter of nomination, a curriculum vitae including a publication list, and three key publications, should be sent by February 10, to David Reznick david.rezn...@ucr.edu. Please indicate “E. O. Wilson Award” in the subject line. http://www.amnat.org/ASN/awa.html#wilson
[ECOLOG-L] Field technician position in tropical stream evolutionary ecology
Field technician position in tropical stream evolutionary ecology Research interns are needed to assist in a multi-disciplinary, multi- investigator, experimental study ecology and evolution in Trinidad. The research is led by professor David Reznick at the University of California and funded by the Frontiers for Integrative Biological Research program of the National Science Foundation. We seek to integrate multiple biological fields for the study of the interactions between ecological and evolutionary processes in Trinidadian streams. Duties of the position include assisting in monthly censuses of fish populations (guppies) in montane streams. The monthly censuses include long hours of laboratory time. Qualifications: Research will take place in semi-remote areas of Trinidad sometimes under bad weather conditions. Applicants must be able to live and work well with others. Research will also involve carrying heavy packs over slippery and steep terrain. Applicants must be in good physical condition and be able to meet the demands of field research under these conditions. Ability to drive a standard transmission vehicle is desirable but not required. Applicants with first-aid/first responder training, skills in automobile maintenance, and construction skills are highly desirable. Please address these skills when applying. Research technicians will be required to spend a minimum of 3-months in Trinidad, with possibility of extension for an entire year. Starting dates are flexible, starting as early as March 2011. Successful applicants will earn a stipend of $500/month and have their travel expenses, accommodation, per diem and insurance covered. Applicants should send cover letter, CV and the names, phone numbers and e-mail addresses of three or more professional references to Andrés López-Sepulcre (andre...@ucr.edu), David Reznick (g...@ucr.edu) and Connor Fitzpatrick (crfitz...@gmail.com). At least two of the references should be academics.
[ECOLOG-L] radio-transmitter with mortality switch
Hi all, I am seeking some advice on monitoring rats and their survival using radio-transmitters with an inbuilt mortality switch. Any information would be great! Cheers, Anke Anke Frank PhD Institute of Wildlife Research School of Biological Science Heydon-Laurence Building A08 The University of Sydney NSW 2006 Australia ph (work): +61 (0)2 9351 7267 Email: anke.fr...@sydney.edu.au
[ECOLOG-L] Energy and Growth
What are the prospects for achieving lasting economic growth? James Brown and his coauthors have some interesting thoughts. And they have something to say about ESA's statement on the ecological impacts of economic activities. View the new article in BioScience here: http://www.aibs.org/bioscience-press-releases/resources/Davidson.pdf Thanks, Rob Dietz steadystate.org
[ECOLOG-L] Tomorrow is the last day for early bird registration for WI Wetlands Conference
Tomorrow (January 14) is the last day to take advantage of discounted early bird registration rates for Wisconsin Wetlands Association’s 16th Annual Wetland Conference, *Wetlands in the Landscape*. Visit www.wisconsinwetlands.org/2011registration.htm to register for the conference today! Conference highlights: · Keynote Presentation by Dr. Lenore Fahrighttp://www.wisconsinwetlands.org/2011symposium.htm#keynote, landscape ecologist from Carleton University, Canada. · National Wetland Buffers Symposiumhttp://www.wisconsinwetlands.org/2011symposium.htm(organized by Dr. Ray Semlitsch) · Banquet (open to the public) with presentation by Dr. Cal Safinahttp://www.wisconsinwetlands.org/2011banquet.htm, award-winning author, marine ecologist, and founding president of the Blue Ocean Institute · Oral sessions with presentations on the latest in wetland science, restoration, and management techniques · Field trip to local wetlands · Poster session, exhibit hall, and silent auction fundraiser · Great opportunities to network with wetland colleagues and friends A full schedule is available online now at www.wisconsinwetlands.org/2011program.htm. The conference program, abstracts, and presenter biographies will be posted soon. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - *Katie Beilfuss* Outreach Programs Director Wisconsin Wetlands Association 222 S Hamilton St #1 Madison, WI 53703 608-250-9971 Fax 608-287-1179 www.wisconsinwetlands.org *Register today for our 16th Annual Wetland Conference, Wetlands in the Landscape, Feb. 16-17, 2011, in Baraboo, Wisconsin. More information at ** http://www.wisconsinwetlands.org/2011conference.htm**. *** # # # #
Re: [ECOLOG-L] short reading on scientific method and experimental design for undergraduate ecology course
Here's something I wrote for the National Center for Science Ed's newsletter several years back. It's not precisely what you're asking for, but it may be useful or interesting. :) The Way Science Works. http://wendeeholtcamp.com/science.htm In fact, I think that the germ of the idea came from something I posted to Ecolog back in 2003... So there ya go. Wendee ~~ Wendee Holtcamp, M.S. Wildlife Ecology ~ @bohemianone Freelance Writer * Photographer * Bohemian http://www.wendeeholtcamp.com ~ 6-wk Online Writing Courses Start Jan 15 or Feb 26~ ~~~ Bohemian Adventures Blog - http://bohemianadventures.blogspot.com -Original Message- From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news [mailto:ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU] On Behalf Of Anna Mosser Sent: Thursday, January 13, 2011 9:40 AM To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU Subject: [ECOLOG-L] short reading on scientific method and experimental design for undergraduate ecology course I'm looking for one or two short readings on scientific method and experimental design for an undergraduate ecology course (mostly 2nd year students). Any suggestions? Somethings freely available and slightly entertaining would be great! Thanks, Anna Mosser aamos...@gmail.com
Re: [ECOLOG-L] radio-transmitters
I want to borrow or buy some used animal transmitters to experiment in a difficult area, near JFK airport. I have a couple of receivers and antennas that I used in the past with transmitters in the 150-151 mhz range. If you have some transmitters you now longer need but that still have some life in them and that are in that range, please let me know. Dr. Russell Burke, Professor Department of Biology Hofstra University Hempstead, NY 11549 516.463.5521 voice
[ECOLOG-L] swampbook
Hello, I wanted to let folks know about a new social network dedicated to wetlands. It is similar to facebook and gives you the opportunity to find a job, look for projects, get trained, meet new friends and learn about wetlands. There is no cost to sign up or use the site. Check it out at swampbook.com Thanks, Marc Seelinger, PWS Director The Swamp School m...@swampschool.org
Re: [ECOLOG-L] short reading on scientific method and experimental design for undergraduate ecology course
I would take a look Statistics without Math by William E. Magnusson and Guilherme Mourão. It is published by Sinauer. Many of the chapters are short and can stand alone. Sent from the cloud On Jan 13, 2011, at 8:30 PM, Anna Mosser aamos...@gmail.com wrote: I'm looking for one or two short readings on scientific method and experimental design for an undergraduate ecology course (mostly 2nd year students). Any suggestions? Somethings freely available and slightly entertaining would be great! Thanks, Anna Mosser aamos...@gmail.com
[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship - Estuarine Ecology
I am seeking a motivated student to fill a graduate assistantship at the Ph.D. level in the Coastal Marine System Science Program at Texas AM University-Corpus Christi (http://pens.tamucc.edu/cmss/). The position is available beginning in Fall, 2011. Student’s dissertation will focus on the effects of variable freshwater delivery, resulting from extreme climatic events such as drought, on estuarine plankton production and trophic dynamics. The University is affiliated with the Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies (http://harteresearchinstitute.org/), which is where the student will be housed. Interested students should preferably hold a M.S. degree in ecology, marine science/oceanography, or a related field and possess strong quantitative skills. Potential applicants holding a B.S. degree should have at least 2 years of research experience in an area related to plankton or estuarine ecology. The graduate assistantship will have an excellent stipend relative to the cost-of-living. Cost-of-living in Corpus Christi, Texas, is inexpensive and ample opportunities exist for cultural/artistic and outdoor activities. San Antonio is approximately 2 hours to the northwest, Austin 3 hours to the northwest, and Houston 3 hours to the northeast. I am looking to fill this position rather quickly, so to be considered for the position, please email me, Dr. Mike Wetz at michael.w...@tamucc.edu, as soon as possible. Along with a letter of interest, please send your C.V., unofficial transcripts and GRE scores. For more information on my laboratory and research interests, please see: http://sci.tamucc.edu/~mwetz/
