[ECOLOG-L] Suggestions for a digital light meter

[Kate Goodenough]

Hi all,

I am working on a bird project and I want to record available light from
artificial sources located adjacent to the colony. Does anyone have
suggestions for a good digital light meter?

Thanks,
Kate

-- 
Katharine Goodenough

"If we knew what it was we were doing, it would not be called research,
would it?"
- Albert Einstein

Conservation Ecology Lab
Department of Biology
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA 92182
(619) 666-9823

[ECOLOG-L] Ideas for a long range pit tag reader

[Andrea Long]

 I am a Ph.D. at the University of Florida studyin
Hi all,

 I am a Ph.D. at the University of Florida studying the effects of fire 
ants on various wildlife species. At present, I am dealing with fence lizards 
and am in need of some 'wisdom' or help in regards to equipment. I have pit 
tagged my lizards with 134 khz tags but only have a scanner that reads out to 
about 1 inch (and reads slowly at that). For identification from a distance I 
have painted them different color codes but my project will last 2 years within 
enclosures and the paint will need to be reapplied often which may not be 
possible as they are fast and difficult to capture (these are relatively large 
enclosures). Thus, if I am unable to capture the individual I will lose that 
recapture data which is important for my mark-recapture study. What would be 
optimal is if I could scan them from a couple of inches away once I sighted 
them using a long range pit tag reader. However, the most likely candidate I 
found through biomark can scan 9 - 12
 " but costs almost $3,000. Does anyone a) know of other long range scanners 
that read 134 khz and are more reasonably priced, b) have a long range pit tag 
reader they may be willing to lend out that is not in use until I can get a 
grant to purchase my own, or c) have a used long range pit tag reader that they 
may not need for a project anymore and be willing to sell at a more reasonable 
price. Any help/ideas would be greatly appreciated and thanks for taking the 
time to read this!

Best,
Andrea

Re: [ECOLOG-L] Subject: Re: Non-Majors Biology

[malcolm McCallum]

There is no reason that accreditation must define exactly what the
courses offered must be.
It could easily just define what is necessary for specific tracts
within biology.  ESA could even do the ecology/organismal tract, then
SETAC do the Environmental studies/env science tract, and so on.
Accreditation can be very liberal, it need not define every single
detail, but rather take into account broad far-reaching ideas and
needs.  For most programs it would be a rubber stamp.  For some
programs, it would simply require the institution to finally anty up.
But in certain critical situations, the institution would actually
need to establish a program with sufficient resources to offer the
major.  THis is really where they butter hits the bread for me.

Example:
Sufficient faculty to offer a major/minor in biology (number/diversity)
Minimum diversity of course necessary to offer a biology degree vs
ecology, vs genetics, etc.
Minimum classrooms needed?
Instrumentation required for specific courses to be offered.

Business accreditation is incredibly defined to a fault.  THey even
have size of offices defined, the number of pubs in CABLE journals
published in a rolling time frame for the faculty to be qualified.
Biology, I think, changes much faster than business.  But, I'm not
sure that this kind of detail is necessary or even useful.

Maybe this is the problem with accreditation thus far.  Biology is not
really a major anymore nor is it a discipline.  It is far more diverse
than say English or Chemistry.  Really, it is as broad as is business.
 What school would as a marketer to teach accounting or visa versa?
Would they get accreditation?  Likewise, what qualifications does a
human geneticist have to teach ecology or ichthyology?  I'm sure there
are individuals who can, but most would be teaching from the book at
best...and messing it up.  The inverse is also true.  However, we have
institutions that require just this, especially where there is little
faculty governance.  In many cases, the admin do not possess the
guidelines or the backgrounds to accurately assess needs for biology.
Thus, these decisions are made based on either perception that any
biologist can teach anything.  They also result in small programs
becoming established with poorly thought out strategies and meager
resources that most of you would not even consider possible.

I'm not saying that accreditation is the answer, but certainly it
would go a long way to giving programs at very small schools a chance
at serving the students.  Currently, there are a few papers that
suggest there is a common core to biology, beyond that, a school can
start a program with a room and a professor...any professor with an MS
or PHD in any biological area.  This was fine in 1930, its not in my
opinion fine in 2013.

Biology programs should not be thought of as a cheap, easily
established science program, few biological discplines can be done on
the cheap.


On Wed, May 30, 2012 at 6:52 AM, David L. McNeely  wrote:
>  george middendorf  wrote:
>> For a wider list of disciplines with programmatic accreditation,
>> including several
>> of those listed by earlier responders, take a look at the CHEA (Council for
>> Higher Education Accreditation) website > {stuff cut}
>> I’d like to suggest that ecologists interested in developing an accreditation
>> system for biology step cautiously.  There’s been quite a bit of discussion
>> over the past two decades regarding establishment of foundations and
>> standards in the discipline—not all of which have been favorable to
>> ecology, evolution, organismal biology, and natural history.
>
> American Institute of Biological Science has led some efforts at accrediting 
> undergraduate biology programs.  Those attempts have failed, mostly breaking 
> down due to lack of agreement as to what constitutes the "core" of biology as 
> a discipline.  From my perspective, the failure has been because too many 
> folks really don't see what the essential substance of the core is -- 
> evolution, genetics, ecology, biodiversity.  But some folks in biology seem 
> to focus on how organisms are structured and work, especially at the cellular 
> level.  Ironically, so far as institutional offerings are concerned, the 
> institutional programs that are broadest and most complete with respect to 
> the spectrum of the discipline appear to be at regional institutions, where a 
> "general" biology program is still usually offered.  But some of those can 
> be, where a focus on preparing students for medical school has dominated, 
> quite limited.
>
> If undergraduate biology program accreditation appears to be seriously 
> considered again, I would encourage ESA to become involved.  ESA is large, 
> has credibility, and a presence on most campuses (at least a member or two).  
> If no ecological organization participates, then we stand a chance of being 
> read out of programs because other groups dominate.
>
> I c

[ECOLOG-L] Reminder: Travel Grants to ESA Annual Meeting--Urban Ecosystem Section Due Friday June 1st

[Christopher A. Lepczyk]

Dear Students,

Just a quick reminder that the Urban Ecosystem Section of the Ecological 
Society of America will again be offering travel grants to this year's 
annual meeting.  Applications are due this Friday, so if interested, 
please follow the directions below:


*2012 Urban Ecosystem Ecology Section Travel Awards* -UEE will award
student travel awards of $400 each to assist with expenses at the annual
meeting in Portland, OR. Applications (meeting abstract, statement of
need (<300 words), and a letter of recommendation) should be submitted
to Christopher Lepczyk, UEE section Chair (lepc...@hawaii.edu) with the
subject line “UEE Travel Award” no later than June 1st, 2012. Recipients
will be notified no later than July 1.

Please note that the UEE Section will also be having a best presentation
award beginning at this year's annual meeting. Information regarding
this award will be forthcoming.

Aloha,
Chris Lepczyk
UEE Section Chair

Christopher A. Lepczyk
Assistant Professor
Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Management
University of Hawaii at Manoa
Honolulu, HI 96822
808-956-2617
lepc...@hawaii.edu

[ECOLOG-L] Three open-rank faculty positions at North Carolina State University

[Kevin Gross]

Three Open-Rank Faculty Positions
Global Environmental Change and Human Well-Being 
North Carolina State University
Raleigh, NC USA 

North Carolina State University is proud to announce its Chancellor’s
Faculty Excellence Program. Starting in 2012, NC State will hire
thirty-eight faculty in twelve research areas or “clusters” to promote
interdisciplinary scholarship and the development of innovative curricula in
emerging areas of strategic strength.

As part of this university-wide program, the Department of Biology and the
Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources are hiring a cluster of
three faculty at any rank to provide leadership for a new initiative in
Global Environmental Change and Human Well-Being. We seek leaders in any
area of biology under this theme, and encourage applications from those who
study global change as it relates to fisheries and aquatic diversity,
quantitative ecology, evolutionary biology, or other areas. Successful
applicants are expected to have a strong vision for their vibrant and
extramurally funded research program, a commitment to leadership in the area
of Global Environmental Change, and demonstrated excellence and innovation
in graduate education.

This cluster will strengthen and bridge emerging initiatives at NC State
including: 1) the Southeast Climate Science Center; 2) the Nature Research
Center of the NC Museum of Natural Sciences; and 3) programs in Ecology and
Evolutionary Biology. More information on these positions and this
initiative can be found at http://www.theglobalchangeforum.org/clusterhire/

We are targeting applicants already holding a position at the level of
Assistant Professor or higher (or equivalent), but exceptional postdoctoral
fellows also will be considered. To apply for these positions, go to
http://jobs.ncsu.edu/postings/7389 and provide a cover letter, curriculum
vitae, and a 1-page vision for Global Environmental Change and Human
Well-being, focused on your research program and/or building this
programmatic theme at NC State. Confidential inquiries and nominations
should be directed to Dr. Damian Shea, Search Chair, d_s...@ncsu.edu,
919-513-3065. Review of applications will begin 15 August 2012 and continue
until the positions are filled. We welcome applications from groups of
individuals and dual-career couples and will work with candidates to
identify suitable employment opportunities for spouses or partners.

NCSU is an AA/EO employer. All qualified applicants will receive
consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin,
religion, sex, age, veteran status or disability. In its commitment to
diversity and equity, NC State University seeks applications from women,
minorities, and persons with disabilities. NC State welcomes all persons
without regard to sexual orientation. ADA Accommodations: please call
919-515-3148.

[ECOLOG-L] Kew Millennium Seed Bank position, the Pacific

[David Duffy]

"International Project Officer -  closing date of June 22nd. 

In short, we are looking for a good project manager able to push forward
partnerships in Pacific region, starting with NZ and New Caledonia.

** **

Please forward this to any relevant mail-lists or colleagues that you think
may be interested in applying for this position.  

 

http://www.kew.org/about-kew/jobs/ref_May2012_IPO.htm

**· **The main function of the role is to form, coordinate and
managing projects and project teams. The ambitious targets of the MSBP
Strategy and Business case require strong and mutually beneficial
partnerships to be developed and supported worldwide. You will develop and
maintain productive relationships with partners and other stakeholders, and
lead MSB work on plant conservation and sustainable use projects in at
least one country.  Priorities for strengthening MSB partnerships include
New Caledonia & New Zealand, and are periodically reviewed.

**· **Working jointly with SCD colleagues and other RBG Kew
Departments you will identify, secure and maintain a diverse range of
funding streams for country projects, regional programmes and thematic
research and activity areas, including by preparing proposals and
advocating the need for matching funding from partners.You will
demonstrate your skills in supporting fundraising events and being an
advocate for the importance of plant conservation to prospects, press and
visitors. In consultation with partners and colleagues, you will prepare
budgets for particular identified projects, manage fund transfers to
partners, oversee expenditure associated with projects and activities in
country and in the UK and prepare biannual budget reports with Kew’s
Finance.

**· **You will advise SCD Departmental Management Team on MSB2
strategy development by participation in at least one of the sectional
specialist groups contributing to SCD/RBG Kew wider strategy (e.g.
International Forestry, Food security, Ecological Restoration and Species
Conservation).

**· **The ability to communicate in English and one other major
European language is key to this role and ability in French would be an
advantage.
You will possess a relevant degree in a biological subject or equivalent
academic qualification and several years of experience working in the
environment sector. 

**· **You must demonstrate international project management
experience including delivering project objectives. Your proven track
record and significant relevant experience of working in a
scientific/environmental team context acquired in a developing country,
with strong international/cross-cultural experiences, is essential for this
role. Your leading, influencing and negotiation skills, are key to this
role.

**· **You will have a thorough understanding of plant conservation
and sustainable use, biodiversity and development issues and will have
significant knowledge of at least one regional flora. Your complete
familiarity with the Logical Framework Approach as a tool for project
management is also required."

PLease don't respond to me.

David Duffy.
-- 

Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit
Botany
University of Hawaii
3190 Maile Way
Honolulu Hawaii 96822 USA
1-808-956-8218

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Position: Univ. Edinburgh Disease Ecology

[Amy Pedersen]

A PhD-student position is available at the University of Edinburgh’s Centre for 
Immunity, Infection 
and Evolution (CIIE) and working closely with partners in other institutions in 
the UK and Kenya.

The Wellcome Trust-funded Centre for Immunity, Infection and Evolution (CIIE) 
has become a major 
centre for interdisciplinary research into infectious disease since its 
inception in 2008. This thriving 
Centre is attracting dynamic and enthusiastic researchers, operating at the 
interface between 
disciplines (e.g. infection biology, immunology, evolutionary biology, ecology, 
epidemiology and 
mathematical modelling) to create new research paradigms to tackle infectious 
diseases.

CIIE is hosted within the Institute for Immunology and Infection Research 
(http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/biology/immunology-infection) and 
Institute for 
Evolutionary Biology 
(http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/biology/evolutionary-biology), 
these being part of the ‘Edinburgh Infectious Disease’ research community, one 
of the largest 
groups of infection biologists world-wide.

The PhD opportunity is funded by the Environmental and Social Ecology of Human 
Infectious 
Diseases (ESEI) project led by the University of Edinburgh together with nine 
other institutional 
partners in the UK and Kenya. This is an interdisciplinary project aiming to 
understand the 
mechanisms leading to the emergence of pathogens into urban populations, and 
their subsequent 
spread. Further details of the overall research programme are available at 
http://www.zoonotic- 
diseases.org/home/research/urbanzoonoses. The PhD will be co-supervised by 
members of the 
project consortium, and would involve working closely not only with the 
specific expertise relevant to 
the project, but also with economists, public health and veterinary public 
health practitioners, social 
scientists, epidemiologists and urban planners. Both projects will involve 
interacting with policy 
makers and a formal policy advice process in both the UK and Kenya.

How to apply:
 By 22nd June 2012, interested individuals who meet the 
eligibility criteria should send 
a pdf file – one document – which should include 1) CV (max. of 2 pages 
including the email and 
name of two academic referees) and 2) a one page statement of research 
interests directly to 
eric.fe...@ed.ac.uk, clearly marking “ESEI PhD studentship application” and 
“Project 2” in the subject 
line. Shortlisted candidates will be informed about interview dates (likely to 
be sometime in July).

Note: Due to restrictions imposed by the funding body, these opportunities are 
only open to those 
who meet the Medical Research Council eligibility criteria for PhD funding (see 
http://www.mrc.ac.uk/Fundingopportunities/Applicanthandbook/Studentships/Eligibility/index.
 
htm).

Project 2: “Peri-domestic wildlife in urban Nairobi: ecology and 
epidemiological role in zoonotic 
pathogen emergence”

We are seeking a biologist/ecologist, preferably with a relevant Masters level 
degree, with 
quantitative skills, and in particular an interest in the epidemiology of 
pathogen transmission. The 
student would be registered at the University of Edinburgh, and would also be 
part of collaborators 
research groups at the University of Nairobi, the International Livestock 
Research Institute (both in 
Nairobi, Kenya) and the University of Liverpool. This studentship would involve 
extensive periods of 
time in the field in Kenya.

Urbanized environments in Africa are melting pots of activity and interaction: 
the wealthy live 
alongside the poor; livestock live alongside people; human and livestock waste 
is poorly disposed of 
near food production areas; formal and informal trading take place in internal 
and externally 
connected networks. This degree of mixing and contact creates ecological niches 
with opportunities 
for pathogen transmission, and several influential reports (Smolinski et al., 
2003; Knobler et al., 
2006) have linked urbanization to the risk of emerging infectious diseases 
(EIDs).

Approximately 60% of human pathogens are zoonotic (Taylor et al., 2001), and 
approximately 80% of 
novel pathogens have zoonotic origins (Woolhouse & Gowtage-Sequeria, 2005). 
Additionally, 
urbanization is likely to make pathogen emergence more likely, but the actual 
mechanisms for this 
happening are poorly understood.

This project would address a set of questions as part of a wider research 
programme on disease 
emergence in urban environments. The focus would be on the ecology and role of 
peri-domestic 
wildlife species (eg rodents, scavenging birds) on transmission of pathogens 
between livestock, 
humans and the environment in a study site established in the city of Nairobi, 
Kenya. Questions to 
be addressed are: 1) What is the diversity and community assemblage of both 
micro-organisms and 
macro-parasites in the peri-domestic species? 2) What is the nature of the 
peri-domestic wildlife 
interact

Re: [ECOLOG-L] Field Experience! Certificate Programs and Internships

[David L. McNeely]

Lauren, look into the Student Conservation Society.  This organization funds 
internships with government agencies and NGOs.  Expenses and a small stipend 
are paid.  The internships include ones involving management activities, and 
research.  There are usually large numbers of internships in widespread parts 
of the U.S. and perhaps in other countries.  David McNeely

 Lauren Kiser  wrote: 
> Dear Ecologgers,
> 
> I would love to get some feedback/advice on the subject of obtaining more
> field experience.
> 
> I am an M.S. student obtaining my degree in Integrated Environmental Science
> (B.S. Biology), and I am beginning to apply for internships and jobs
> post-graduation. I have the educational background, and my application
> package is well-written, but I lack experience (time and again, this is what
> I am told).
> 
> I am subscribed to Ecolog, I browse Texas A&M's job board, and I also have
> access to Ecojobs.com. I have been applying for internships that I come
> across, and looking into certificate programs (the one at Sacramento City
> College, http://www.scc.losrios.edu/Documents/catalog/programs/BIOL.pdf, is
> precisely what I am looking for).
> 
> What I want to know is: do YOU have any recommendations? Are you aware of
> any field ecology/biology certificate programs (preferably in the U.S., as
> that would most likely be the cheapest option for me)? Do you know of any
> internships, organizations or agencies involved with wildlife ecology,
> particularly large carnivores? For internships, I can afford the cost of
> travel, but I would prefer recommendations of places/programs that cover
> housing and food. International internships are welcomed and encouraged, as
> I love to travel and experience a variety of climates and cultures.
> 
> I am particularly interested in mammalogy, animal behavior, and conservation
> biology. I am not trying to focus on wildlife management- more so the study
> of endangered species, charismatic megafauna, mammalian carnivores... I
> would really love to gain field experience with radiotelemetry, collaring
> and tracking, scat-sniffing dogs, and experience with capture-recapture
> methods (using program MARK, etc.). I am also open to opportunities in
> ornithology and herpetology.
> 
> I recognize how hard it is to break into the field of mammalogy and
> conservation biology. Field studies that accept people lacking in experience
> are rare. I do have some varied experience (I have attached my CV for those
> who are curious). Because opportunities are limited and competition is
> fierce, I recognize my need to improve my skills. Any suggestions are
> welcome, and thank you if you read this whole message!
> 
> Warmest regards,
> 
> LK

--
David McNeely

Re: [ECOLOG-L] Field Experience! Certificate Programs and Internships

[David L. McNeely]

Lauren and others, my previous post, which referred to the Student Conservation 
Society, should have said Student Conservation Association.  Good luck, David

 Lauren Kiser  wrote: 
> Dear Ecologgers,
> 
> I would love to get some feedback/advice on the subject of obtaining more
> field experience.
> 
> I am an M.S. student obtaining my degree in Integrated Environmental Science
> (B.S. Biology), and I am beginning to apply for internships and jobs
> post-graduation. I have the educational background, and my application
> package is well-written, but I lack experience (time and again, this is what
> I am told).
> 
> I am subscribed to Ecolog, I browse Texas A&M's job board, and I also have
> access to Ecojobs.com. I have been applying for internships that I come
> across, and looking into certificate programs (the one at Sacramento City
> College, http://www.scc.losrios.edu/Documents/catalog/programs/BIOL.pdf, is
> precisely what I am looking for).
> 
> What I want to know is: do YOU have any recommendations? Are you aware of
> any field ecology/biology certificate programs (preferably in the U.S., as
> that would most likely be the cheapest option for me)? Do you know of any
> internships, organizations or agencies involved with wildlife ecology,
> particularly large carnivores? For internships, I can afford the cost of
> travel, but I would prefer recommendations of places/programs that cover
> housing and food. International internships are welcomed and encouraged, as
> I love to travel and experience a variety of climates and cultures.
> 
> I am particularly interested in mammalogy, animal behavior, and conservation
> biology. I am not trying to focus on wildlife management- more so the study
> of endangered species, charismatic megafauna, mammalian carnivores... I
> would really love to gain field experience with radiotelemetry, collaring
> and tracking, scat-sniffing dogs, and experience with capture-recapture
> methods (using program MARK, etc.). I am also open to opportunities in
> ornithology and herpetology.
> 
> I recognize how hard it is to break into the field of mammalogy and
> conservation biology. Field studies that accept people lacking in experience
> are rare. I do have some varied experience (I have attached my CV for those
> who are curious). Because opportunities are limited and competition is
> fierce, I recognize my need to improve my skills. Any suggestions are
> welcome, and thank you if you read this whole message!
> 
> Warmest regards,
> 
> LK

--
David McNeely

[ECOLOG-L] Call for Papers - 39th Annual Natural Areas Conference

[Amberly Moon]

39th Annual Natural Areas Conference
October 9-12, 2012 ♦ Norfolk, Virginia

Hosted by the Natural Areas Association and co-hosted by the Virginia 
Department of Conservation and Recreation.

The conference will provide hands-on workshops, field trips and 
enlightening presentations designed to foster learning and promote 
discussion around the conference theme: Keeping Natural Areas Relevant and 
Resilient in today’s dynamic, competitive and technology/information-
driven environment. It has become apparent to many natural resource
managers that program budgets are tighter, constituent support is more 
critical than ever, outreach and messaging have become critical program 
functions – and time is more valuable than ever before. Yet, we endeavor 
to maintain and grow active resource protection and conservation programs. 
How can public and private conservation efforts stay relevant and 
resilient in this changing landscape? And, how can natural areas managers 
maintain resilient ecosystems that can withstand or adapt to change?

The 2012 Natural Areas Conference, through plenary sessions, symposia, 
contributed oral and poster presentations,networking opportunities and 
field trips will provide a forum to explore these themes as well as other 
topics that are relevant to natural areas conservation, ranging from 
invasive species to fire ecology to outreach, communication and marketing.

Abstracts for all papers and posters presented at the 2012 Natural Areas 
Conference will be published in a special Conference Proceedings edition 
of the Natural Areas Journal!

Presentation Types:
Oral Presentations
20 minutes in length, followed by 5 minutes for questions (time strictly 
enforced). Microsoft PowerPoint is required for oral presentations. If 
your abstract is accepted, you will be provided further information on 
operating system requirements for your presentation, instructions on 
getting your presentation loaded, etc. Also, check the NAA
2012 conference website for this information as it
becomes available.

Poster Presentations
Strongly encouraged as they allow extended informal discussions and active
participation of co-authors. They are displayed in highly visible 
locations throughout the conference week. You are required to be present 
during the formal poster session on October 10 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. 
Posters must be landscape-oriented, sized 4 ft by 4 ft (1.2 m x 1.2 m) or 
smaller.

Conference Themes/Session Topics
While presentations on all topics relevant to natural areas conservation 
and management will be considered, submissions related to the following 
topics and which support the overall conference theme will be given special
consideration.
• Natural Areas Program Relevance and Resilience
• Marketing, Communications and Outreach
• Land Conservation
• Coastal/Marine Issues
• Cave/Karst Issues
• Cultural Resource Management
• Managing Climate Disruption Effects
• Managing Public Access in Natural Areas
• Fire Ecology and Management
• Invasive Species Management
• Conserving Rare Species

Student Presentation Competition
Students planning to present a paper and/or poster at the conference are 
strongly encouraged to enroll in the Student Presentation Competition.
Along with your abstract, send a short statement of intent to participate 
in the competition and proof of student status (copy of current 
registration, letter from academic advisor, etc.). Mail hard copy 
documents to Rick Myers, Virginia DCR-Natural Heritage, 217 Governor 
Street,Richmond, VA 23219 or attach a scanned copy as a PDF file to your 
email abstract submission. Winners will be announced and awards presented
at the conference.

Each submitted abstract must include the following and carefully adhere to 
these guidelines:
• Title – Complete title must be in bold text, including subtitle.
• Author(s) – List the full first and last names of each author. Underline 
and list the corresponding/presenting author first, and include his/her 
full contact and affiliation information below this item. Use superscripts 
to identify multiple authors with different affiliations. Do not use
superscripts for single authors or multiples from the same affiliation. 
Separate multiple email addresses from the same affiliation with 
semicolons. Hyperlink email addresses.
• Presenter’s contact information – Name, address,phone number, email.
• Body of Abstract – Abstracts must not exceed 250 words. Emphasize the 
results of a study or the practical application of a resource management 
project or program. If there is more than one paragraph, double space 
between paragraphs and do not indent.
• Key Words – Capitalize all KEY WORDS and include no more than five.
• Abstracts must be submitted electronically by attaching the Microsoft 
Word file containing the abstract to an email message. The email must 
include the information listed exactly as below.
• Format – Indicate oral presentation or poster presentation.

Abstract Submission must 

[ECOLOG-L] Field Experience! Certificate Programs and Internships

[Lauren Kiser]

Dear Ecologgers,

I would love to get some feedback/advice on the subject of obtaining more
field experience.

I am an M.S. student obtaining my degree in Integrated Environmental Science
(B.S. Biology), and I am beginning to apply for internships and jobs
post-graduation. I have the educational background, and my application
package is well-written, but I lack experience (time and again, this is what
I am told).

I am subscribed to Ecolog, I browse Texas A&M's job board, and I also have
access to Ecojobs.com. I have been applying for internships that I come
across, and looking into certificate programs (the one at Sacramento City
College, http://www.scc.losrios.edu/Documents/catalog/programs/BIOL.pdf, is
precisely what I am looking for).

What I want to know is: do YOU have any recommendations? Are you aware of
any field ecology/biology certificate programs (preferably in the U.S., as
that would most likely be the cheapest option for me)? Do you know of any
internships, organizations or agencies involved with wildlife ecology,
particularly large carnivores? For internships, I can afford the cost of
travel, but I would prefer recommendations of places/programs that cover
housing and food. International internships are welcomed and encouraged, as
I love to travel and experience a variety of climates and cultures.

I am particularly interested in mammalogy, animal behavior, and conservation
biology. I am not trying to focus on wildlife management- more so the study
of endangered species, charismatic megafauna, mammalian carnivores... I
would really love to gain field experience with radiotelemetry, collaring
and tracking, scat-sniffing dogs, and experience with capture-recapture
methods (using program MARK, etc.). I am also open to opportunities in
ornithology and herpetology.

I recognize how hard it is to break into the field of mammalogy and
conservation biology. Field studies that accept people lacking in experience
are rare. I do have some varied experience (I have attached my CV for those
who are curious). Because opportunities are limited and competition is
fierce, I recognize my need to improve my skills. Any suggestions are
welcome, and thank you if you read this whole message!

Warmest regards,

LK

[ECOLOG-L] Postdoc position -- biogeography / ecology / evolution

[Sarah Berke]

We have a postdoctoral position available in the Jablonski Lab at the
University of Chicago -- here is the ad, please disseminate widely!
Questions can be addressed to me or Zack Krug (email in ad).

Thanks,

Sarah


2012:

Seeking a postdoctoral scholar to participate in an ongoing collaborative
research project (D. Jablonski-K. Roy-J. W. Valentine) on the evolutionary
history and future of modern spatial patterns of diversity, such as the
latitudinal gradient. Marine bivalves will be used as a model system due to
their excellent fossil record, ecology diversity and highly resolved
taxonomy. Research involves quantifying present-day biogeographic patterns,
quantifying the Cenozoic spatial and evolutionary dynamics underlying them,
and relating these patterns to environmental change. Postdoctoral scholar
will assist in analyses and modeling of diversity dynamics, and take the
lead on some new research projects. Experience in some combination of
modeling, statistical, phylogenetic, and spatial (GIS) analyses and/or
database management required. Familiarity with paleontological, climatic
and/or biogeographic data is preferable. One-year appointment renewable for
one or more additional years. Starting date negotiable but prefer summer to
early fall 2012. Requires either Ph.D in hand or dissertation submitted and
approved for degree. Please email a letter documenting research interests
and experience, a CV, and the email addresses of two references to Dr.
Andrew Z. Krug (ak...@uchicago.edu) at the University of Chicago.
Applications required by July 1, 2012 for full consideration. The *University
of Chicago is an equal opportunity**/*affirmative action employer, and
encourages applications from under-represented minorities and women.




_
Sarah K Berke
Postdoctoral Scholar
Department of the Geophysical Sciences
University of Chicago
5734 S. Ellis Ave
Chicago, IL 60637

[ECOLOG-L] Postdoctoral Research Associate in Population Modeling at the University of Maine

[Shawn McKinney]

We seek applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the U.S.
Geological Survey, Maine Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit
(http://www.coopunits.org/Maine) at the University of Maine, Orono. The
Associate will work in collaboration with Dr. Shawn McKinney to analyze
multiple, long-term (40+ years) data sets on black bear (Ursus americanus)
populations in Maine. The project objectives are to: estimate demographic
parameters and population change rates; predict population trajectories;
evaluate the effectiveness of the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and
Wildlife’s current bear monitoring program and population estimates; and
determine whether alternative research and monitoring methods are appropriate.  

Requirements:
•   PhD completed by time of start date in a discipline within the 
biological
sciences
•   A record of publication
•   Experience with Bayesian statistical modeling and MCMC methods
•   Proficiency with population analyses and modeling of long-term data sets
•   Proven ability to work independently, problem solve, and formulate and
execute a multi-year work plan
•   Evidence working as part of a team to address and identify solutions to
complex problems

In addition to the above requirements, the ideal candidate will have
experience with integrative population modeling, collaborating with a
natural resource agency, and using databases to extract and manage data for
analyses.

Review of applications will begin in June 2012 and will continue until the
position is filled.

The ideal starting time is late-August 2012, but is negotiable.

Salary is $42k to $47k per year (depending on qualifications) plus benefits,
and funding is for two years.

Please send 1) a letter of application addressing and providing evidence for
each of the six requirements; 2) a current CV; 3) contact information for
three references; and 4) at least one, but no more than three, relevant
publication(s), to: shawn.mckin...@maine.edu. Please send all materials via
email with “Postdoc in population modeling” as the subject line. For more
information on the Department of Wildlife Ecology and the University of
Maine, please visit http://www.umaine.edu/wle and http://www.umaine.edu.
The University of Maine is an EEO/AA employer. Women and members of
underrepresented groups in academia are especially encouraged to apply. 

Re: [ECOLOG-L] Relational Database Management Software for Mac?

[Kim van der Linde]

Filemaker pro. Very user friendly, originally developed on Mac, now also 
available on Windows.


Kim

On 5/30/2012 8:11 AM, Kayleigh Somers wrote:

Hi all,

Wondering if anyone out there has suggestions for an Access (although hopefully 
less user-hostile!)
equivalent for the Mac OS, to query databases.

Thanks!
Kayleigh Somers
Doctoral Candidate
University Program in Ecology
Duke University



--
http://www.kimvdlinde.com

[ECOLOG-L] hydrologic fracturing and water resources webinar

[Marc Seelinger]

There has been a lot of discussion about hydrologic fracturing methods used
to recover natural gas.  There have been many concerns from both the
environmentalists and the gas companies.  Many of these concerns relate to
water resources and wetland impacts.

To help move the dialog along, The Swamp School is presenting a FREE
interactive webinar today and later on this week on hydrologic fracturing
and water resources.  This webinar does not require any special equipment to
participate in other than a PC or Mac with an internet connection and a web
browser.  

If you would like to participate in this FREE no-obligation webinar, please
visit our website to sign up.  It can be found at http://SwampSchool.org

Thanks,

Marc Seelinger
The Swamp School, LLC

[ECOLOG-L] Call for Proposals: Life Discovery - Doing Science Education Conference

[Andrea McMillen]

Life Discovery - Doing Science Inaugural Education 
Conferencehttp://www.esa.org/ldc
Call for Short Presentation Proposals
Accepting proposals 5/30/2012 - 8/31/2012This Short Presentation format is 
designed for presentations that enhance understanding of key concepts, or 
project activities that feature effective ideas and approaches. Presentations 
should be limited to 15 minutes to allow for 15 minutes of Q&A.

Proposals on biology education topics are welcome; preference will be given 
towards those that directly address three key pedagogical tracks across four 
topics in biology education. [more information]

Conference Tracks
* Lessons and curriculum design in the digital age
* Classroom-true and field-tested technology
* Data exploration in a research-based biology

Cross Cutting Conference Topics
* Ecology and Earth Systems Dynamics
* Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services
* Evolution in Action
* Structure and Function

Conference Purpose
This conference will highlight the leading science, curriculum design and 
implementation and data exploration in a research-rich biology education for 
grades K-16.
* Discover the science of life in a changing world
* Swap ideas for a robust biology classroom
* Build partnerships with scientists and educators
* Explore digital resources and new technologies
 [more information go to www.esa.org/ldc]Proposal Deadlines
Short Presentations
Accepting proposal NOW! Submissions are due Aug. 31

Hands-on Workshops
Accepting proposals NOW! Submissions are due July 31.

Education Share Fair Roundtables
Accepting proposals 6/30/2012 - 9/31/2012Conference PartnersBotanical Society 
of America (BSA)
Ecological Society of America (ESA)
Society for Economic Botany (SEB)Society for the Study of Evolution (SSE)  
Many thanks our Conference Collaborators who promote the conference to their 
professional networks:
Animal Behavior Society
American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS)
BEACON Center for the Study of Evolution in Action
Center for Excellence in Education (CEE)
Ecological Research as Education Network (EREN)
National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis (NCEAS)
National Education Association (NEA)
National Evolutionary Synthesis Center (NESCent)
National Socio-Environmental Synthesis Center (SESYNC)
Virginia Association of Science Teachers (VAST)

For more information
Visit:  www.esa.org/ldc

Contact:
Andrea McMillen
and...@esa.org
202.833.8773 x 236

[ECOLOG-L] Relational Database Management Software for Mac?

[Kayleigh Somers]

Hi all,

Wondering if anyone out there has suggestions for an Access (although hopefully 
less user-hostile!) 
equivalent for the Mac OS, to query databases.

Thanks!
Kayleigh Somers
Doctoral Candidate
University Program in Ecology
Duke University

Re: [ECOLOG-L] Subject: Re: Non-Majors Biology

[Judith S. Weis]

>There are a number of institutions of higher ed which have a biology
curriculum totally devoted to what goes on inside the cell membrane...
>

  There’s been quite a bit of
> discussion
> over the past two decades regarding establishment of foundations and
> standards in the discipline—not all of which have been favorable to
> ecology, evolution, organismal biology, and natural history.
>
> George Middendorf
> Biology
> Howard University
>
>
>
>
> Date:Mon, 28 May 2012 08:53:25 -0400
>> From:Tamara Cushing 
>> Subject: Re: Non-Majors Biology
>>
>> Forestry has undergraduate accreditation
>>
>> Tammy
>>
>> Tamara L. Cushing, Ph.D.
>> Assistant Professor, Forest Management and Economics
>> Clemson University
>>
>> 
>> From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news
>> [ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.
>> =
>> UMD.EDU] On Behalf Of Jane Shevtsov [jane@gmail.com]
>> Sent: Sunday, May 27, 2012 11:31 PM
>> To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU
>> Subject: Re: [ECOLOG-L] Non-Majors Biology
>>
>> What disciplines other than engineering have departmental
>> accreditation at the undergraduate level?
>>
>> Jane
>>
>> On Sun, May 27, 2012 at 2:47 PM, malcolm McCallum
>>  wrote:
>> > The problem with biology education today is that there are:
>> > 1) no standards for what the major is
>> > 2) no accreditation governing what a department should comprise
>> >
>> > Europe now has accreditation for the discipline and if the US does not
>> > follow suit you can watch rapidly as we not only fall behind in
>> > biology, but basically fall like a rock in stature.
>> >
>> > Too many departments just wing it at the whim of the administrations'
>> fol=
>> ly.
>> > Accreditation provides the departments with significant support and
>> > legitimacy in the face of those administrations that generally care a
>> > lot about money and little about quality or students.
>> >
>> > There are more of those than we care to admit.
>> >
>> > Look, we can't even agree whether biodiversity concepts belong in an
>> > intro to bio class.
>> > I find this not only disheartening but also frightening.  Where else
>> > they going to learn it, English?
>> > Most schools don't have an EVS course, and many never will.
>> >
>> > Malcolm
>> >
>>
>>
>

Re: [ECOLOG-L] Subject: Re: Non-Majors Biology

[David L. McNeely]

 george middendorf  wrote: 
> For a wider list of disciplines with programmatic accreditation,
> including several
> of those listed by earlier responders, take a look at the CHEA (Council for
> Higher Education Accreditation) website  {stuff cut}
> I’d like to suggest that ecologists interested in developing an accreditation
> system for biology step cautiously.  There’s been quite a bit of discussion
> over the past two decades regarding establishment of foundations and
> standards in the discipline—not all of which have been favorable to
> ecology, evolution, organismal biology, and natural history.

American Institute of Biological Science has led some efforts at accrediting 
undergraduate biology programs.  Those attempts have failed, mostly breaking 
down due to lack of agreement as to what constitutes the "core" of biology as a 
discipline.  From my perspective, the failure has been because too many folks 
really don't see what the essential substance of the core is -- evolution, 
genetics, ecology, biodiversity.  But some folks in biology seem to focus on 
how organisms are structured and work, especially at the cellular level.  
Ironically, so far as institutional offerings are concerned, the institutional 
programs that are broadest and most complete with respect to the spectrum of 
the discipline appear to be at regional institutions, where a "general" biology 
program is still usually offered.  But some of those can be, where a focus on 
preparing students for medical school has dominated, quite limited.

If undergraduate biology program accreditation appears to be seriously 
considered again, I would encourage ESA to become involved.  ESA is large, has 
credibility, and a presence on most campuses (at least a member or two).  If no 
ecological organization participates, then we stand a chance of being read out 
of programs because other groups dominate.

I continue to be amazed at the number of biologists who see ecology as 
peripheral to their science.  But then, biodiversity courses have totally 
disappeared from many campuses.  They persist mainly in large institutions or 
as service courses to resource management programs.

mcneely

[ECOLOG-L] Query for published article

[km masum]

Hi Everyone
Hope this mail will find you hale and hearty. 
I am going to do a research work on "Effect of invasive flora on food security 
of wildlife in protected area"
I am seeking some published work in this filed.
It will be helpful for me If anyone can provide some publications.
With Regards

Kazi Mohammad Masum
Assistant Professor
Department of Forestry and Environmental Science
School of Agriculture and Mineral Sciences
Shahjalal University of Science and Technology
Sylhet-3114, Bangladesh.
kmmasum-...@sust.edu: km_ma...@yahoo.com