[ECOLOG-L] Travel Awards: Microbial Ecology Section, ESA

[Jay T. Lennon]

The Microbial Ecology Section is sponsoring ($250) travel awards to help
support student travel to the 2011 ESA meeting in Austin, TX.  Both
undergraduate and graduate students are encouraged to apply.  The student
must be the presenting author on a poster or paper that has been accepted
for presentation at the annual meeting.  The study should deal with the
ecology of bacteria, archaea, microeukarya, or viruses; studies that promote
the integration of microbial ecology into the general study of ecology are
especially welcome. 

Application Process:  Applications shall consist of a copy of the abstract
accepted by the ESA for presentation at the annual meeting, with a brief
cover letter from the student describing the work to be presented.  Be sure
the following information is provided:

•Name
•Professional address
•E-mail and phone number
•Title of talk/poster
•Session (Date, time and location)
•Poster number

A recommendation from the student's advisor must also be submitted. 
Supplemental letters of reference from the student's thesis committee or
other faculty from the student's home institution may also be included.
Applications shall be submitted to the Chair of the Microbial Ecology
Section and will be evaluated by Section officers and section volunteers.
Criteria for evaluation will include the quality of the work and the degree
to which the abstract and the research described reflect the section's goal
of integrating microbes and microbial ecology into the general study of
ecology. 

The deadline for receipt of applications is May 31.  Successful applicants
will be notified of their award by June 30. 
Send applications including all supporting material by email to Jay T.
Lennon at the following address: lenno...@msu.edu

[ECOLOG-L] Postdoctoral Research Associate: Ecosystem Modeling and Model-Data Fusion, University of New Hampshire

[Jingfeng Xiao]

Please distribute the following job announcement to potential applicants.
Thanks. 

Jingfeng

**

The Complex Systems Research Center, University of New Hampshire has an
immediate opening for a Postdoctoral Research Associate. This position is
funded by National Science Foundation (NSF) and National Aeronautics and
Space Administration (NASA), and may be renewed annually for up to three
years, depending on successful and satisfactory performance. The successful
candidate will work on ecosystem modeling, model-data fusion, and
uncertainty assessment. The overarching goals of this project are to advance
towards diagnostics of continental-scale carbon fluxes using eddy flux
measurements, remotely-sensed data, and new spatially explicit ecological
data (e.g, disturbance, stand age) through modeling and model-data fusion
(or data assimilation), and to assess the magnitude, distribution, and
interannual variability of ecosystem carbon exchange across North America.
The Postdoctoral Research Associate will be responsible for generalizing a
process-based forest ecosystem model to other terrestrial vegetation types,
optimizing model parameters using model-data fusion techniques along with
eddy covariance flux observations and other data constraints, and conducting
state-of-the-art uncertainty assessment of carbon fluxes.

The successful candidate will join a research team at the Complex Systems
Research Center (CSRC; http://www.csrc.sr.unh.edu/), Institute for the Study
of Earth, Oceans and Space (EOS; http://www.eos.sr.unh.edu) at the
University of New Hampshire. UNH is a Research-I, Land, Sea and Space Grant
University that has been recognized both nationally and internationally for
research excellence in ecology, environmental science, geoscience and
forestry. Located in the Seacoast region of New Hampshire, members of UNH
enjoy the high quality of life and beautiful natural surroundings the region
provides. 

A Ph.D. in areas such as ecology, biometeorology, forest science,
atmospheric sciences, remote sensing, or a related field, is required.
Applicants should be enthusiastic, creative, and highly motivated.
Applicants must possess strong modeling, quantitative, and analytical
skills, and experience in ecosystem modeling and model-data fusion is highly
desirable. Excellent communication skills and experience in handling large
data sets are also expected. A start date of no later than August 1, 2011 is
preferred. 

Please submit a cover letter, CV, and the names and contact information of
three references to Dr. Jingfeng Xiao (j.x...@unh.edu) and Dr. Scott
Ollinger (scott.ollin...@unh.edu) via email with the subject line
“Application for Postdoctoral position”. Applications must be received by
June 15, 2011 to receive full consideration. 

The University System of New Hampshire is an Equal Opportunity/Equal
Access/Affirmative Action institution. The university system seeks
excellence through diversity among its administrators, faculty, staff, and
students. The university prohibits discrimination on the basis of race,
color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender
identity or expression, disability, veteran status, or marital status.
Application by members of all underrepresented groups is encouraged.

**

-- 
Jingfeng Xiao, PhD
Complex Systems Research Center
University of New Hampshire
449 Morse Hall, 8 College Road
Durham, NH 03824
Email: j.x...@unh.edu
http://www.eos.sr.unh.edu/Faculty/Xiao
Tel: (603) 862-1873; Fax: (603) 862-0188

[ECOLOG-L] Available positions

[alisha borden]

Hello,

My name is Alisha Borden and I am a graduate from Stevenson University in
Baltimore, MD with a BS in Biology. I was wondering if there are any entry
level positions available in the area of conservation biology. I am
currently not working in the field of biology, but am hoping to get back in
the field. I hope to hear from someone soon!

Thank you,

Alisha Borden

[ECOLOG-L] Casey Dunn's Creature Cast: World of Animals (for academics)

[Clara B. Jones]

http://creaturecast.org



-- 
Clara B. Jones
Associate, Community Conservation Consultants, Inc.
URL: www.communityconservation.org
E-mail: foucaul...@gmail.com
Blog: http://vertebratesocialbehavior.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/cbjones1943

"A perrenial skeptic will say that there is always room for doubt; but,
pragmatically, at some point, you have to say that *X* is true."  Phil Plait

[ECOLOG-L] Research Technician - Soil and Water Quality

[Eric Holzmueller]

Research Technician.  The Department of Forestry, Southern Illinois
University Carbondale invites applications for a full time professional
researcher position on a funded project assessing soil and water quality
associated with cover crops and tillage practices in agricultural watersheds
near Decatur, Illinois.  The position will involve: independent field work,
supervision and direction of field teams of graduate and undergraduate
students, database management, soil quality analysis, water quality
analysis, and helping to manage a water quality laboratory.  The position
requires significant overnight travel and field work in all weather
conditions; must maintain a valid driver’s license. Qualifications
(Required):  M.S. or B.S./B.A. degree with equivalent experience in
Forestry, Soil Science/Agronomy, Environmental Science, Hydrology, or a
related discipline.  (Preferred):  Experience in soil quality
characterization, surface and ground water quality monitoring, hydrologic
assessments, and geographic information systems.  This is a 12 month
grant-funded position and could be extended dependent upon funding
availability and workload needs for at least 6 years. Application deadline:
 May 20, 2011, or until filled, with an anticipated start date ASAP.  To
apply:  submit a letter of application, resume, unofficial transcripts
(officials required upon hire), and names and contact information of 3
references to:  Dr. Karl Williard, Department of Forestry, Mail Code 4411,
Southern Illinois University Carbondale, 1205 Lincoln Dr., Carbondale, IL 
62901 Tel: (618) 453-7478, Fax: (618) 453-7475, Email: willi...@siu.edu 
SIUC is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer that strives to
enhance its ability to develop a diverse faculty and staff and to increase
its potential to serve a diverse student population.  All applications are
welcomed and encouraged and will receive consideration. 

Re: [ECOLOG-L] Temperature & Wind Speed Data Loggers

[Seth W Bigelow]

Rogelio:

I have used the Onset wind speed sensors (~$200) logged on the Onset 
MicroStation logger (I think these are also about $200). The micro station 
has room to plug in 4 sensors, so you can add a temperature sensor -- 
these are fairly inexpensive, perhaps $60. You will also have to purchase 
the Onset software ("Boxcar") for downloading the data, and a cable. 

It's important to remember to save some money for proper mounting 
equipment. At a minimum you'll need to purchase a cross-arm. If you're 
logging near the ground you can buy your own pole but depending on the 
soil it can be surprisingly difficult to install the pole vertically. Your 
air temperature sensor will need to be in a radiation shield, also, so the 
sun doesn't shine directly on it. These will run about $100.

The Onset  wind sensor provides reasonable quality for the price. It's 
starting threshold is about 1 m/s (2.2 mph), so usefulness is limited in 
low-wind situations like understories of forests with dense canopies. 

Dr. Seth  W. Bigelow
Biologist, USDA-FS Pacific Southwest Research Station
1731 Research Park Drive, Davis California
sbige...@fs.fed.us /  ph. 530 759 1718

[ECOLOG-L] 14th International Conference on Shellfish Restoration - Sterling Scotland

[Antonio Agüera]

More information at www.aqua.stir.ac.uk/shellfish2011
The 14th International Conference on Shellfish Restoration (ICSR) comes this
year to the United Kingdom for the first time in its 26 years history. The
conference will be held at the University of Stirling in the heart of
Scotland and its title and theme will be “Shellfish: our undervalued
resource”. The conference will run from the evening of August 23rd to the
morning of August 27th with a gala dinner and ceilidh on the evening of
August 26th at the Management Centre at the University of Stirling. The
programme will feature invited keynote and panel presentations, case
studies, and contributed oral and poster presentations. All sessions will be
presented in English.

The theme of the conference, “Shellfish: our undervalued resource”, reflects
the UK perception of shellfish as something that is good to eat, often in
upmarket restaurants. Shellfish fisheries and aquaculture are indeed a very
important part of the UK economy; shellfish reefs however form an ecosystem
that provides myriad benefits (“ecosystem services”) many of which have been
lost through acute fishing pressures, disease, pollution and other factors.
On a global scale, shellfish reefs are considered amongst the most
threatened habitats. This conference hopes to change perceptions of the
value of shellfish as a resource by bringing scientists from all over the
world to discuss how we can learn from experience overseas, particularly in
the USA, where there has been considerable investment and community-based
efforts to restore and enhance shellfish populations.
Cheers
Antonio Agüera
Wageningen IMARES.

[ECOLOG-L] Post Doctoral Position in Entomology at the University of Maryland

[David Inouye]

Post Doctoral Position in Entomology at the University of Maryland

CLOSING DATE: May 16, 2011 or until filled

DEPARTMENT: Entomology

STARTING SALARY: Commensurate with qualifications and experience

ADDITIONAL SALARY INFO: This is a full time 2 year position with the 
possibility of a 1 year renewal. The University of Maryland offers a 
health benefits package.


DESCRIPTION: The Department of Entomology at the University of 
Maryland, in cooperation with the USDA ARS, is seeking a post 
doctoral candidate in Biological Control. The post doc candidate will 
be expected to develop a strong research program focusing on 
biological control of Emerald Ash Borer evaluating exotic parasitoids 
and indigenous natural enemies. This project consists of both field 
and laboratory components. The successful candidate is expected to 
show initiative and innovation and be able to work independently as 
well as part of a team. The candidate will conduct research under the 
supervision of Dr. Paula Shrewsbury in the Department of Entomology 
at the UMD in College Park MD, in collaboration with Dr. Jian Duan of 
the USDA ARS in Newark DE.


The Department of Entomology has excellent infrastructure support. 
College Park is the flagship campus of the University System of 
Maryland. The University's proximity to Washington, D.C. offers 
diverse opportunities for partnerships with governmental and 
non-profit organizations and research groups.


QUALIFICATIONS: This position requires a recent Ph.D. in Entomology 
or a closely related field. Research experience in classical 
biological control and/or wood boring insects is highly preferred. 
Strong statistical skills would be helpful. The candidate must enjoy 
working outdoors and be in good physical condition to endure the 
rigors of field research in MD.


TO APPLY: Application packet should include a letter of intent 
addressing applicant's research experience and skills, and long term 
career goals; curriculum vitae; transcripts; names and contact 
information of three references that are familiar with your research. 
Submit applications electronically to Joanne Lewis at 
jcle...@umd.edu. Call Joanne Lewis at 
301-405-3912 if you have questions. For full consideration, complete 
applications should be received by May 16, 2011. The search will 
continue until the position is filled.


THE UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AND AFFIRMATIVE 
ACTION EMPLOYER AND STRONGLY ENCOURAGES APPLICATIONS FROM 
UNDERREPRESENTED GROUPS.



Paula Shrewsbury, Ph.D.
Associate Professor and Extension Specialist in Ornamental and Turf IPM
Department of Entomology
4112 Plant Science Bld.
University of Maryland
College Park, MD 20742
email: pshrewsb...@umd.edu
office phone: 301.405.7664
fax: 301.314.9290

Re: [ECOLOG-L] Temperature & Wind Speed Data Loggers

[David Green]

Hi Rogelio,

We've used this relatively inexpensive weather station for wetland weather
monitoring:
http://www.amazon.com/Ambient-Weather-WS-1090-Wireless-Station/dp/B0044P7CUI
/ref=pd_sbs_hg_12. It features data logging of up to ~4000 readings of
around 6 parameters which can be exported to Excel automatically. It's
pretty easy to set up and is fairly accurate.

Hope that this helps.

David

-Original Message-
From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news
[mailto:ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU] On Behalf Of Rogelio Rodriguez
Sent: Friday, May 06, 2011 5:48 PM
To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU
Subject: [ECOLOG-L] Temperature & Wind Speed Data Loggers

Hi,

I'm interested in if anyone knows of an affordable temperature and wind
speed data logger.  I'm aware of the HOBO temperature data loggers, but I'm
also looking for a device that records wind speed.  I'm also aware of the
Kestrel handheld units that will record both temp and wind speed, but I need
a device that can be set out for a number of days and automatically record
and store temp and wind speed data.  Any info will be appreciated.

Thanks,

Rogelio Rodriguez 


  =

[ECOLOG-L] Birding Apps for iphone

[gcunningham]

Hello Ecologgers,

Does anyone have a suggestion as to which birding app is best for the
iphone?  Want one with songs, maps, pictures, etc.

Thanks for your input!

Greg



dr gregory b cunningham
assistant professor of biology
st. john fisher college
a-224 skalny science centre
3690 east avenue
rochester, ny
14618

Fisher Goes Green:  http://home.sjfc.edu/green/

(585) 385-5299 --> phone
(585) 385-7311 --> fax

[ECOLOG-L] Full-time, Temporary Biology Positions-- Kutztown University

[Allison Roy]

We are still accepting applications for the following positions:

*Full-Time Temporary Biology Faculty Positions, Kutztown Univerisity*
The Department of Biology invites applications for temporary faculty
positions to teach introductory biology for non-majors, and other biology
courses as needed, for the 2011-2012 school year.  Required:  (1) A Master's
degree in Biology or related field, Ph.D preferred, and (2) one year of
college-level teaching experience in introductory biology, or equivalent
experience teaching a broad range of biology topics. Additional teaching
experience and/or experience teaching biology to non-science majors is
desirable.  Courses to be taught include lecture and laboratory sections of
non-majors Introduction to Biology and other biology courses as needed.
Full-time temporary faculty are also encouraged to participate in service to
the department, which could include the revisions of non-majors biology
courses.  Successful interview and demonstration of relevant ability
required.  Salary competitive.  Send letter of application, Curriculum
Vitae, official copies of graduate and undergraduate transcripts, and three
current letters of reference by mail to Chair of Temporary Search Committee,
Department of Biology, Kutztown University, Kutztown, PA 19530.  No
electronic submissions will be accepted.  Review of applications will begin
April 15, 2011, and continue until the position is filled.

For full description, criteria, and complete listing of vacancies, please
visit our website at
www.kutztown.edu/employment.
Kutztown is an AA/EOE member of the PA State System of Higher Education and
actively solicits applications from women, veterans, persons with
disabilities, and minorities.

Dr. Allison Roy
Assistant Professor
Department of Biology
Kutztown University
Kutztown, PA 19530
Ph: 610.683.4318
Fax: 610.683.4854
r...@kutztown.edu

[ECOLOG-L] Final Call-Abstracts & Hotel Deadline is Wed, 5/18, for Arthropod Genomics Symposium

[Doris Merrill]

***Print this e-mail from a PDF*** ( 
http://www.k-state.edu/agc/symp2011/Announcement5.pdf ) 


Arthropod Genomics:  Exploring Diversity, Relating Similarity 
5th ANNUAL ARTHROPOD GENOMICS SYMPOSIUM 
June 9 – 12, 2011, in Kansas City, USA 
www.k-state.edu/agc/symp2011 



You still have time to register and make arrangements to attend!!! 



Deadlines: 
Wed., May 18 Poster Abstract Submissions:  Six platform presentations will be 
chosen from submitted poster abstracts.  Please follow guidelines posted to 
symposium website. 
Wed., May 18 Hotel Reservations at the KC Marriott on the Plaza 
Wed., May 18 Registration:  Registration will continue to be accepted after May 
18, if space is available. 



REGISTRATION: The registration fee is $395 ($225 for graduate and undergraduate 
students) on or before Wednesday, May 18, and will include a welcome reception 
Thursday evening, breakfast and lunch on Friday and Saturday, and breakfast on 
Sunday.  Access REGISTRATION ONLINE at   
http://www.k-state.edu/agc/symp2011/register.html .  


PRE-CONFERENCE MEETINGS: 
-International Tribolium Meeting, 6/8 and 6/9. 
-International Aphid Genomics Consortium, 6/9.  Schedule posted to: 

  
http://www.k-state.edu/agc/symp2011/images/2011_7thIAGC_Kansas_Program-New.pdf 



WORKSHOPS 
June 9:  A pre-symposium workshop, “Genome Project 101,” by Scott Cain, OICR, 
and Dave Clements, Emory University; Thursday afternoon, June 9, 4:00-6:00 p.m. 

June 11:  “Comparative genomics with the generic synteny browser (GBrowse_syn): 
Configuration and display of various co-linearity data types,” by Sheldon 
McKay, iPlant, will be presented Saturday morning, June 11. 



ORGANISM MEETINGS 
Friday afternoon/evening, June 10 
Meet with scientists who are also working with your organism of interest during 
small group gatherings.  If you are interested in coordinating topics and 
leading discussions as a group leader, please e-mail dmerr...@ksu.edu .   
Additional information will be posted to the conference website as details are 
finalized. 



POSTER SESSIONS: There will be two poster sessions.  A few platform 
presentations will be chosen from submitted poster abstracts.  



ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSION:  Participate in a roundtable discussion with the 
ArthropodBase Consortium regarding the generation of integrated arthropod 
genome databases and tools for genome projects.  Discussion will focus on I5k, 
led by Kevin J. Hackett, USDA.  Symposium attendees are encouraged to attend. 



TENTATIVE SYMPOSIUM PROGRAM 
   Thursday afternoon, June 9 – Pre-Symposium Workshop 
   Thursday evening, June 9 – Keynote presentation and welcome reception 
   Friday & Saturday, June 10 and 11 - Platform and Poster sessions 
   Friday afternoon/evening, June 10 – Organism meetings 
   Saturday morning – Gbrowse_syn Workshop 
   Sunday morning, June 12 – Roundtable discussion focusing on I5k with 
 Kevin J. Hackett, USDA, and the ArthropodBase Consortium.  
 All are invited to attend!  
   Noon, Sunday, June 12 - Activities will conclude. 



KEYNOTE SPEAKER: 
Marc A.T. Muskavitch 
DeLuca Professor of Biology 
Boston College 
“Advancing vector genetics through the power of vector genomics” 
  
FEATURED SPEAKERS: 
Gregor Bucher 
Department of Developmental Biology 
Georg-August University, Gӧttingen, Germany 
“iBeetle: Genome wide RNAi screen for embryonic and metamorphic development in 
Tribolium” 
  
Owain Edwards 
Invertebrate Genomics and Evolution, CSIRO Ecosystem Sciences, Perth, Australia 
“DNA methylation and phenotypic plasticity in the pea aphid, Acyrthosiphon 
pisum” 



Cassandra Extavour 
Dept of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University 
“Overcoming the gene discovery bottleneck for arthropod evo-devo:  Creating de 
novo developmental transcriptomes” 



Toni Gabaldón 
Center for Genomic Regulation (CRG), Barcelona, Spain 
“Arthropod genomes as seen through the lens of evolution” 



Cheryl Y. Hayashi 
Department of Biology, University of California, Riverside 
“Spider silks:  Functional and evolutionary insights into 
high-performance materials” 



Mary Ann McDowell 
Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame 
“A tale of two sand fly genomes:  Phlebotomus papatasi and Lutzomyia 
longipalpis” 



Pedro L. Oliveira 
Instituto de Bioquímica Médica, Programa de Biologia Molecular e Biotecnologia 
Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro and 
Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Entomologia Molecular 
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 
“An insight into the transcriptome of the digestive tract of the blood sucking 
bug, Rhodnius prolixus” 



Michael Pfrender 
Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame 
“Genome structure, functional diversification, and Genome X environment 
interactions in Daphnia” 



Dorith Rotenberg 
Plant Pathology, Kansas State University 
“A genomics-based approach to identify insect molecular components associated 
with vector competency in Frankliniella occidentalis, the primary thrips vect

[ECOLOG-L] Job Opportunity - Geospatial Field Technician(s) - multiple locations

[Laura Reynolds]

The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a nonprofit science 
corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use 
and invasive species impact ecology.  For the next three decades NEON will 
collect a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale 
across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems.  NEON will use 
cutting edge technology including an airborne observation platform that 
will capture images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, 
relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors 
to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who will observe 
and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water 
data.  A leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and 
publish this information.  The Observatory will be the first of its kind 
designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at 
continental scales.

Term Appointment:
These are temporary full-time positions.  The positions are available for 
start in June 1, 2011 with an anticipated completion date of September 
30st, 2011.  

Summary
The Field Technician(s) will travel and ground-truth abiotic and biotic 
characterizations of specific sites across a variety of landscapes. Work 
at these field sites may include long workdays, sometimes under harsh 
environmental conditions.  Typically, travel will occur during the 
workweek in 10 days up to 3 week blocks, but at times may include travel 
over weekends.  

Location – travel will be to the following locations- candidates can be 
located anywhere geographically within the United States as long as they 
are willing to travel.
Alabama: Talladega National Forest
Colorado: Niwot Ridge, Rocky Mountain National Park, Sterling
Massachusetts: Harvard Forest, Plum Island -Burlington, MA
New Hampshire: Bartlett Forest
Tennessee: Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Utah: Red Butte Canyon
Washington: Wind River Experimental Forest
Wyoming/Montana: Yellowstone National Park

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
•   Work as a member of a team to evaluate and validate the NEON study 
design for long-term monitoring of terrestrial organisms
•   Visit potential sample locations in the field at NEON study sites 
to ground-truth abiotic and biotic characterizations of specific sites 
across a variety of landscapes 
•   Navigate a variety of wilderness and managed landscapes with 
safety, precision, and efficiency 
•   Acquire and manage spatially-explicit photographs and data, 
including the transfer of data to and from a GPS unit to a computer
•   Extensive travel - 90% of time will be spent traveling between 
June and September 2011

Required Experience
•   Valid driver’s license – must be 21 to drive
•   Must be US Citizen
•   Proof of auto insurance
•   Extensive experience hiking in remote wilderness landscapes (maps, 
compass, GPS) away from roads and trails
•   Experience working with Microsoft office products including Word & 
Excel

Preferred Experience
•   Currently working toward BS, MS, Ph.D. degree in Ecology, 
Geography, or Biology or another related field
•   Experience as a field technician 
•   Experience leading hikes, or assisting nature societies with 
seasonal nature observations
•   Emergency response/first aid training such as wilderness first aid 
or wilderness first responder
•   Wildlife safety training course
•   Leadership role in an extended field data collection effort
•   Proven history of organizing spatial and site-specific information 
•   Experience working with vegetation maps and other ecological data 
•   Experience with field validation or accuracy assessment of 
ecological models, soil, and vegetation maps  
•   Experience working with GPS Pathfinder Office software

Skills and Abilities
•   Ability to follow instructions, a strong work ethic, and enthusiasm
•   Able to supply personal gear (adequate clothing and boots, etc.)
•   Ability to work independently and as part of a team
•   Attention to detail and accuracy
•   Ability to successfully work through problems with minimal 
supervision
•   Strong communication and interpersonal skills
•   Ability to work independently and as a member of an active science 
team
•   Proven ability to work well as a member of team in challenging 
situations and environments

Physical Abilities
•   Ability to hike with pack up to 25 lbs (carrying field equipment) 
to evaluate field sites off-trail for distances up to three miles
•   Ability to work in adverse weather conditions and in all types of 
terrain



Apply online at www.neoninc.org 


NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans 
and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply. 

[ECOLOG-L] MS opportunity investigating ecohydrology of reed canary grass

[Camille McNeely]

We are seeking a M.S. student for a funded project investigating the
ecohydrology of invasive Reed Canary Grass in semi-arid eastern
Washington.  The student will work with a team of researchers at
Eastern Washington University including R. Brown, C. McNeely, C.
Nezat, and C. Schwab.  The project will require extensive field work,
and will include hydrology, measurements of plant transpiration,
characterization of plant communities, and use of stable isotopes to
trace water sources.  A B.S. or B.A. in environmental science,
biology, botany, geology or a related field is required.  Previous
experience in statistics and relevant field research are desired but
not required.  A strong candidate will possess excellent teamwork,
problem-solving, writing, and quantitative skills. Student must be
admissible to the Biology M.S. program at Eastern Washington
University (see
http://www.ewu.edu/CSHE/Programs/Biology/Biology-Degrees/MS-Biology.xml
for more information).  Position begins mid-June 2011. Please send
questions or application materials to Dr. Camille McNeely at
camille...@gmail.com.  Applications should include a C.V., statement
of research and career goals, unofficial transcripts, and contact
information for 3 references.  If selected, admission to the M.S.
program will require additional materials.

[ECOLOG-L] Job Opportunities?

[Cyndi Rossini]

Hi everyone,

  I was curious if anyone had any leads on biology positions in Western 
Washington - Seattle area?  I have my B.S. in Botany but have experience with 
marine birds and surveying.  I am not currently working in the biology field 
but am anxious to get back into it as soon as possible.

Any help much appreciated...

Thanks
Cyndi 

[ECOLOG-L] Rangeland Technician

[Bridget Walden]

Description:
The Great Basin Institute is working cooperatively with the Bureau of Land
Management Southern Nevada District Office (SNDO) to recruit a Rangeland
Technician who will work in support of fire and fuel management programs.
The Mojave Desert is not a fire adapted ecosystem yet invasive, combustible
plant species such as tamarisk and red brome have invaded Wildland Urban
Interface (WUI) and areas critical to wildlife creating unnatural fire fuel
conditions which are destructive. The purpose of this position is to assist
the SNDO Fire and Fuels Management team to locate, plan, and implement fuels
projects. The short-term goals are to reduce fire risk to the public and
fire fighters, and to protect and preserve values at risk such as habitat
using the best available science, mechanical, chemical means, and
occasionally prescribed fire. The long-term goal is to restore native
vegetation to its natural state when and where possible, reducing or
eliminating fire risk to communities and wildlife habitat. The principle
purpose(s) will be to provide technical expertise and field support in
planning, managing and implementing fuels treatments within WUI and non-WUI
areas with respect to fire and fuel management activities and their effects
on Mojave Desert ecosystems including, standardization of field sampling
methodology, adequate analysis and reporting of data using common
statistical and graphical representation tools, and the transfer and storage
of all monitoring information into agency GIS. Specific duties will include:
Vegetation monitoring, fuel load monitoring, data collection with GPS units,
GIS data development, GIS data management, implementation planning support,
NEPA planning support, and other related fire and fuels duties as needed.
Project-related tasks are comprised of approximately 50% office tasks and
50% field tasks.

Compensation and Timeline:  
o   Rate of Pay: $22.74/hour
o   Annual contract beginning in May or June, depending on availability
o   Full time, 40 hours per week (overtime and/or weekend work hours 
required
occasionally)

Location:
The technicians will be based out of the BLM Southern Nevada District
office, which is located in northwest Las Vegas, NV. The Southern Nevada
District Office manages more than three million acres of Mojave Desert in
Clark and Nye counties. The scenery varies from the dramatically colorful
geologic landforms and largely unspoiled panoramic vistas of Red Rock Canyon
National Conservation Area to the remote and rugged wild landscapes of the
Gold Butte Back Country Byway. Recreation opportunities abound and viewing
sites for desert plants and animals are easily accessible.

Qualifications:
o   Bachelor’s Degree in Life Sciences, or related subject matter, or a
combination of experience and education – Applicants with a Master’s Degree
and/or professional work experience in a related field, such as natural
resources management/planning, outdoor recreation, community/land-use
planning, landscape architecture or preferably Geology/Geosciences
encouraged to apply;
o   Experience identifying plants using taxonomic keys or familiarity with
Mojave Desert plants, desired but not required;
o   Experience using hand-held GPS equipment for data collection and 
navigation;
o   Ability to read and navigate using topographic maps and a compass;
o   Experience using ArcGIS software to manage, manipulate and map data; 
o   Rudimentary knowledge of the National Environmental Policy Act;
o   Willingness, ability and desire to work in harsh, ever-changing desert
conditions, including extreme temperatures;
o   Ability to work in teams or independently and be self-motivated both in
the office and in the field with little supervision.
o   Ability to effectively communicate field data and research findings, 
both
written and orally, with a diverse audience;
o   Willingness to camp in remote, undeveloped sites for multiple days; and
o   Valid, state-issued driver’s license and familiarity driving 4WD 
vehicles
on- and off-road.

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

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

Re: [ECOLOG-L] Wildflower Guides to Southeastern U.S.

[ling huang]

Hi Jason

Did anybody mention the national Audubon series such as the
National 
Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Wildflowers--E: Eastern 
Region - Revised Edition (National Audubon Society Field Guides)

Ling Huang
Sacramento City College

--- On Sat, 5/7/11, Jason Hernandez  wrote:

From: Jason Hernandez 
Subject: Re: [ECOLOG-L] Wildflower Guides to Southeastern U.S.
To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU
Date: Saturday, May 7, 2011, 10:07 AM

I was asked by at least two people to summarize the replies to my query about 
Southeastern wildflower guides.  Here is what I got, followed by some more of 
my own comments:
 
Three respondants recommended Newcomb's Wildflower Guide for the mountains and 
piedmont.  The problem there is, Newcomb's area map is nearly identical to that 
in Peterson's Northeastern/North-Central guide, so unless Newcomb's is more 
comprehensive than Peterson, which I already own, it is not worthwhile for me 
to purchase Newcomb's.
 
I also received recommendations for Wofford's Key to the Blue Ridge Mountains; 
for the Lower Coastal Plain, Clewell's Guide to the Vascular Plants of the 
Florida Panhandle; Duncan and Duncan for the entire Eastern region (presumably 
both North and South -- the preview on Amazon did not let me see an area map, 
if any); Clair Brown's guide for Louisiana and adjacent states; and the Audubon 
Society's guide to the Eastern region.  Also, Sorrie's about-to-be-released 
guide for the Carolina Sandhills (June 1).  One respondant said that since 
there is no good guide to the entire region, he cobbles together a collection 
of guidebooks, scientific articles, and technical keys.
 
Here are my thoughts: it is too bad that Peterson-style line drawings seem to 
be out of vogue.  They can clarify what photographs obscure.  For example: say 
we are at a site where a roadside abuts a riparian zone, in South Carolina.  
There are numerous yellow Senecio blooming.  Is it the ruderal Senecio smalii, 
or the riparian Senecio glabella?  Look at a guide with two separate photos, 
and it may be difficult to tell -- especially if the guide in question is 
arranged by habitat, with ruderals in a separate section from riparian 
species.  But if there was a Peterson-style guide, arranged visually and with 
line drawings, we could simply turn to the page of clustered yellow rayed 
composites.  All Senecio species of that type would be lined up there as line 
drawings, with handy diagnostic arrows pointing to the key details -- in this 
case, the width and lobing of the leaves -- to distinguish S. smallii from S. 
glabella; there would then be a note on
 habitat at the end of each description, to add a further important detail.  
Peterson's system, in my opinion, has never been improved upon.
 
One responadant noted that "being a guide," the recommended volume did not have 
the best species coverage.  Well, it is true that no guidebook has the coverage 
of the technical floras; but Peterson's come close, given his admittedly 
arbitrary definition of a "wildflower": herbaceous angiosperms, excluding 
Poaceae, Cyperaceae, and Juncaceae.  To take the example I know best: before 
coming to the Southeast, I lived for over twelve years in the Pacific 
Northwest.  The Peterson wildflower guide to that region is Niehaus and Ripper, 
"Pacific States Wildflowers."  In twelve years, 98% of the wildflowers (by 
Peterson's definition) I encountered were in Niehaus and Ripper; only rarely 
did I need to consult the flora by Hitchcock and Cronquist.  Any guidebook less 
comprehensive than that is, in my opinion, substandard.
 
Given that Peterson's wildflower guides cover every part of the contiguous 48 
states except the Southeast, I wonder if it is worthwhile contacting the folks 
at Houghton-Mifflin about this?
 
Jason Hernandez

[ECOLOG-L] Temporary Position - Plant Taxonomist

[Brian R. Maricle]

PLANT TAXONOMIST 
  
Position Description: Full time 9-month temporary position with
specialization in plant or fungal taxonomy. A potential exists for the
position to become tenure track in the future. Appointment date: August 2011. 
  
Responsibilities: This position will require teaching Plant Taxonomy to
Biology majors, and other related courses (potentially Mycology), based on
qualifications of the successful applicant and departmental needs. The
successful applicant also will teach introductory biology courses for majors
or nonmajors, General Education courses, and introductory biology labs for
majors. Teaching three different courses per semester is a typical load.
Emphasis is on teaching and active participation with students in the
classroom and field or laboratory. Research activity with undergraduates and
M.S. students is encouraged. In addition, the applicant will be expected to
assist with retention, recruiting, and advising students, and contribute
service to the University and their profession. Experience with herbarium
curation is desirable; the successful applicant is expected to curate plant
teaching collections and has the potential to curate the Elam Bartholomew
Herbarium at the Sternberg Museum of Natural History. 
  
Qualifications: Minimal qualifications include an earned Ph.D. in biology,
botany, or an appropriate subdiscipline (ABD will be considered for
well-qualified applicants). The applicant must provide evidence of teaching
experience and scholarship, for example, teaching evaluations, peer-reviewed
publications, professional presentations, and the ability to acquire
research funding. Other necessary qualifications include strong
communication skills, a commitment to excellence in teaching and advising,
active participation with students, and the ability to develop a research
program that includes students. 
  
Contact: Dr. Elmer J. Finck, Chair of Department of Biological Sciences,
Fort Hays State University, 600 Park Street, Hays, KS 67601-4099 
Phone: 785-628-4214, Fax: 785-628-4153, email: efi...@fhsu.edu 
  
Fort Hays State University does not discriminate on the basis of gender,
race, religion, national origin, age, disability, Vietnam era veteran status
or special disabled veteran status in its programs and activities. The
University employs only United States citizens and aliens who are lawfully
authorized to work in the United States. FHSU is committed to the cultural
enrichment of its student body and work force through Affirmative Action and
Equal Education/Employment Opportunity. Members of historically under
represented social groups in higher education, women, and persons with
disability or veteran status are encouraged to apply. 
  
Preference will be given to applications postmarked or received
electronically by June 10, 2011. Applications must include: 
  
1. Curriculum vitae 
2. Unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts 
3. Statement of teaching interests and philosophy; this may include
supporting documentation 
4. Separate statement of proposed research involving students 
5. Copies of representative scholarly work 
6. Names, addresses, and telephone numbers of four references 
Please do NOT send letters of recommendation at this time.   
  
  
Finalists will have consented to and successfully completed a criminal
background check. 
  
The Department of Biological Sciences has 12 full-time faculty positions
representing the disciplines of botany, ecology, evolutionary biology,
microbiology, anatomy, and vertebrate zoology. A minimum of eight GTAs
assist with teaching undergraduate labs; an additional six graduate
assistantships are available through the Sternberg Museum of Natural History
and the Kansas Wetlands Education Center, and four graduate fellowships are
available through the department. The Department offers B.S. and M.S.
degrees in biology. Available departmental research resources include a
scanning electron microscope; a newly developed microbiology, cell, and
molecular research lab; extensive aquatic sampling equipment, excellent
computing facilities and technical support; large museum collections; a
1,000-acre tract of native prairie; a new greenhouse; and other related
resources. The Department is housed in the recently renovated (2001)
Albertson Hall, which includes fully mediated classrooms and laboratories.
The Department employs a fulltime lab coordinator and office manager, and a
half-time greenhouse manager. 
  
Fort Hays State University is a state-supported liberal and applied arts
institution governed by the Kansas Board of Regents. It primarily serves the
western one-half of Kansas. Approximately 10,000 students are enrolled in
four colleges (Arts and Sciences, Business, Education and Technology, and
Health and Life Sciences) and a Graduate School, which have a combined total
of 340 full-time faculty members. The campus is modern, spacious (4,160
acres), and attractive, and has outstanding museums, galleries, and cultural

[ECOLOG-L] Online Graduate Degrees

[Norman A. Greenhawk]

Dear All,

I have posted in this forum just twice, but both times I received an 
abundance of helpful responses, so I will post again.  

I have been (for a year now) considering applying for graduate school.  
The main hinderance is that I love my current position as herpetologist at 
a sustainable forestry project in Puerto Rico.

By good fortune, I came across the University of Florida's Master's 
program in Ecological Restoration.  What caught my eye is that the program 
in entirely distance learning- I could "attend" school and still remain in 
Puerto Rico and continue with my herpetological studies.

What I like about this program is that it is not like many of the "pay for 
a degree" so-called "schools".  I would have to apply to this program just 
like an at-school program, and meet minimum requirements for GRE scores, 
GPA scores, etc.

However, I was wondering if anyone out there is aware of similar graduate 
programs at other accredited schools.  Specifically, I would be interested 
in graduate programs conducted by distance learning in any of the 
following fields: Biology, Ecology, Herpetology, Tropical Ecology, 
Tropical Forest/Wildlife Management, etc.

A preemptive thanks!

Norman Greenhawk

[ECOLOG-L] research/conservation jobs in Ecuador, Brazil or CA

[Ilana Stein]

Hello Ecologgers,

I am writing to see if anyone knows of jobs or paid internship opportunities
in Ecuador, Brazil, or California in the areas of conservation work or
ecological research. I have a BA in environmental science from Mills
College, and field research experience in both (Brazilian) tropical forests
and coastal California ecosystems. I am looking for field tech jobs or
similar opportunities. My boyfriend (a Brazilian, with a degree in
environmental education and experience in permaculture) and I are currently
working with agroforestry research and indigenous tea production in the
Ecuadorian Amazon, but we are here on a volunteer basis and we both need to
find paid work in the near future. We would ideally like to find something
here in Ecuador, if possible, for the two of us. Any information on
opportunities within the areas of ecological research, conservation and/or
environmental education in Brazil or California (our home regions) will also
be greatly appreciated. We are also open to opportunities that do not pay,
but that provide food and lodging at no cost, if it is relevant and
interesting work.

Thank you very much for taking the time to read this,
Ilana Stein

[ECOLOG-L] Lyme Disease Testing

[MCK]

In the eastern US ticks are an accepted and unavoidable nuisance when working 
in the field.  Recently, with the increased prevalence of tick borne illness, 
people have become more cautious towards tick bites.  Recently, I attempted to 
get tested for Lyme disease based on my elevated levels of exposure over long 
periods of time, but without clinical symptoms my provider refused to 
administer the test.  This is frustrating to me particularly because of the 
likely possibility that I overlooked the minor symptoms during the summer, and 
now am just waiting for major permanent symptoms to surface to administer an 
exam.  Is anyone aware of recommendations for testing associated with high 
levels of exposure, or any other pertinent information associated with 
interacting with doctors, or Lyme disease detection?

matt