[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship in Silviculture - University of Minnesota
Graduate Research Assistantship in Silviculture The University of Minnesota, Department of Forest Resources is seeking a PhD-level graduate student to participate in a research project examining the response of various adaptive silviculture strategies for climate change in forests in northern Minnesota, with potential for inclusion of additional fieldsites across the US. The student will join a team of collaborators from the University of Minnesota and the U.S. Forest Service to assess the influence of various silvicultural treatments on a core set of response variables including species composition, forest health, and productivity of both understory and overstory vegetation. The project is being established as part of a multi-site, large-scale, long-term silviculture experiment, and may include modeling vegetation response to explore potential long-term effects. The position is available for Summer 2014 and includes stipend, tuition waiver, and health insurance. The ideal candidate will have a B.S. and/or M.S. in forest ecology, forestry, natural resources conservation, environmental science, biology or a closely related field, experience or interest in applying vegetation and ecosystem simulation models to evaluate long-term management outcomes, as well as a strong work ethic, demonstrated quantitative capabilities, a record of leadership, and a proven ability to work independently. The application deadline for this position is March 15, 2014. Interested candidates should contact: Dr. Linda Nagel (lmna...@umn.edu, 218-726-6484)
[ECOLOG-L] FW: Webinar Tomorrow: Climate-sensitive, Insular Ecosystems of the Southeastern U.S.: The State of the Science and a Case Study of Limestone Cedar Glades in the Central Basin of Tennessee
*NCCWSC 2013 CLIMATE CHANGE SCIENCE AND MANAGEMENT WEBINAR SERIES* A partnership between the U.S. Geological Survey's National Climate Change and Wildlife Science Center (NCCWSC) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Conservation Training Center (NCTC) ***Climate-sensitive, Insular Ecosystems of the Southeastern U.S.: The State of the Science and a Case Study of Limestone Cedar Glades in the Central Basin of Tennessee**”* *Jennifer Cartwright, USGS Tennessee Water Science Center* *Wednesday, February 19, 3:30 PM Eastern** **via WebEx (Register at https://nccwsc.usgs.gov/webinar/304) * *Description:* In the Southeastern U.S., “insular ecosystems” may be particularly vulnerable to ecological effects from climate change. These insular ecosystems are characterized by (1) occurrences that are spatially discrete, (2) relatively small geographic footprints, and (3) steep ecological and environmental gradients at their boundaries. Such insular ecosystems tend to support concentrations of endemic and disjunct species; thus their contributions to regional biodiversity are often disproportionate to their small geographic sizes. Components of this project included a systematic literature review to document the biodiversity of selected insular ecosystems and to evaluate their potential vulnerability to climate change; a conceptual model for ecosystem integrity based on abiotic stress regimes and application of this model to generate hypotheses for ecological alteration based on changes in temperature or precipitation; and a 2-year field investigation in Limestone Cedar Glades to explore links between hydrology, soil physical and chemical properties, and ecological outcomes such as soil microbial community structure. This case study serves as an example of the type of empirical research that researchers argue is necessary to better evaluate the climate-change vulnerability of this class of ecosystems. *YOU MUST PRE-REGISTER TO JOIN THIS WEBINAR VIA WEBEX **TO REGISTER, PLEASE VISIT: **https://doilearn.webex.com/doilearn/j.php?ED=262691387RG=1UID=0RT=MiMxMQ%3D%3D* https://doilearn.webex.com/doilearn/j.php?ED=262691387RG=1UID=0RT=MiMxMQ%3D%3D *CLOSED CAPTIONING* will be provided. After joining the webinar, please open another web browser and go to: http://fedrcc.us//Enter.aspx?EventID=2310859CustomerID=321 http://fedrcc.us/Enter.aspx?EventID=2310859CustomerID=321 THIS WEBINAR WILL BE RECORDED *If you cannot attend the webinar, it will be posted, with closed captioning, approximately 1-2 weeks after the presentation is given and posted on the NCCWSC website: https://nccwsc.usgs.gov/webinar/304 *UPCOMING NCCWSC WEBINARS* For the schedule of upcoming webinars in the NCCWSC Climate Change Science and Management Webinar Series, please click here:https://nccwsc.usgs.gov/webinars Learn more about NCCWSC at https://nccwsc.usgs.gov and the CSCs at http://www.doi.gov/csc/index.cfm.
[ECOLOG-L] tenure-track faculty position Wildlife Ecology and Management
*Department*: Forestry *Position*: Wildlife Ecology and Management *Rank*: Assistant Professor *Appointment*: Full-time, Nine-month, Tenure-track, excellent opportunities for summer employment *Description*: The Arthur Temple College of Forestry and Agriculture at Stephen F. Austin State University is seeking an assistant professor in the areas of wildlife ecology and wildlife management. The candidate will teach courses in the Forest Wildlife Management major, possibly including Vertebrate Natural History, Wildlife Techniques and electives in area of expertise, and will participate in a summer field experience for forestry undergraduates. Candidate will also be expected to be active in research and contribute to a nationally recognized applied wildlife research program. This includes advising M.S. and Ph.D. students, developing extramural sources of funds, and publishing in peer-reviewed journals. We seek an individual that can complement existing areas of expertise within the college, particularly in the ecology of game and non-game birds. Participation in outreach and service is also expected, including involvement with appropriate student organizations. *Qualifications*: Candidates must have a Ph.D., completed by the date of hire, in wildlife ecology, wildlife management, or a closely related field. Candidates should demonstrate: (1) a strong commitment to teaching, advising and student professional development; (2) evidence of ability to secure grants and develop and manage a competitive research program; and (3) a publication record, including publications in refereed journals. Expertise and experience in avian ecology and management is preferred. A basic understanding of and appreciation for applied forest or range management is strongly encouraged. *Application*: All applications must be submitted online at https://careers.sfasu.edu: (1) a letter of application to include a summary of academic training, professional experience, qualifications, and teaching and research interests related to the position; (2) curriculum vitae; (3) names and complete contact information (including phone and email addresses) of three references; and (4) transcripts of all college or university work (attached as Other Document). This position is posting number 0602882. Applications will not be considered complete until all documents have been received. Official transcripts will be required prior to interview. Review of applications will begin on March 21, 2014 and continue until the position is filled. *Community, University, and College*: Stephen F. Austin State University is located in Nacogdoches, TX, a community of about 33,000 in the East Texas Pineywoods region. The university is a comprehensive institution dedicated to excellence in teaching, research and service. University enrollment is currently about 13,000 undergraduate and graduate students. Undergraduate students can choose from 80 degree programs, including 120 areas of study, offered by 6 colleges. Graduate students can earn degrees from 40 master and 3 doctoral programs. The Arthur Temple College of Forestry and Agriculture enrolls about 740 undergraduate and graduate students earning degrees in wildlife management, forestry, environmental science, spatial science, and agriculture. The forestry graduate program enrolls about 75 master-of-science and doctoral students. For More Information Contact: Chris Comer, Associate Professor and Chair, Faculty Search Committee Arthur Temple College of Forestry and Agriculture P. O. Box 6109 419 East College Street Stephen F. Austin State University Nacogdoches, TX 75962-6109 Phone: 936-468-2317 Email: come...@sfasu.edu Stephen F. Austin State University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer committed to diversity.
[ECOLOG-L] Short Course: Pollen Analysis
Hello all, Id like to announce an upcoming short course in pollen analysis, to be offered at the University of Maine this coming June, offered by the Climate Change Institute and PalEON. The course is designed to be suitable for a broad range of applications, from modern analyses to paleoecological reconstructions. We will also include professional development mini-courses in the evening on social media, open data, R, GitHub, and related topics. The course is open to anyone: undergraduates, grad students, researchers, faculty, etc. We are in the process of applying for funds to support international travel. For more details, you can check my website: http://jacquelyngill.wordpress.com/2014/02/11/announcement-pollen-analysis-short-course/ Come for the pollen, stay for our beautiful wilderness and oceans (were just an hour from Acadia National Park!). If you have questions, please dont hesitate to contact me. Feel free to print out a flier (a pdf can be downloaded at the website) and share it with your students and colleagues. Space is limited! It is our hope that, pending interest, we can offer this course every other year. Regards, Jacquelyn Gill (University of Maine) Andrea Nurse (University of Maine) Simon Goring (University of Wisconsin)
[ECOLOG-L] definitions in (community) ecology
Hey everyone, We’re taking a survey to find out how certain terms are used in ecology (and how prevalent their use is) since we see them used interchangeably. We’re asking researchers from all levels (undergrad, grad, professor, non-academic) to define a set of common terms in ecology, like assemblage and community. The survey is short, four questions with two supplemental info questions. We’d appreciate your taking the time to fill it out! The web address: http://climateecology.wordpress.com/ Thanks! Nate and Andy
[ECOLOG-L] JOB: Conservation Research Program Director at Institute for Applied Ecology
*Job Title: Conservation Research Program Director* *Office Location: Corvallis, Oregon* *IAE:* The Institute for Applied Ecology (IAE) fills a unique niche among non-profit organizations in Oregon because of its combined focus on restoration, research and outreach. Located in Corvallis, Oregon, we work with a diverse group of partners including other nonprofits to accomplish our mission: *to conserve native species and habitats through restoration, research and education*. Our board and staff work together through our programs: Habitat Restoration, Conservation Research, Ecological Education, Estuary Technical Group, and the Native Seed Network. Thanks to a dedicated staff and board, IAE has become a leading organization in the Pacific Northwest developing and implementing cutting-edge techniques for habitat restoration, conducting large scale habitat restorations and reintroductions of threatened and endangered plant species, initiating educational opportunities and distributing materials for school-aged children in the fields of ecology and habitat conservation, and conducting research on rare and invasive plants and native habitats crucial to restoration and conservation in our region. IAE seeks a Conservation Research Program Director with exceptional communication skills and a research background in species and habitat conservation on public and private lands. We are especially interested in candidates with experience and willingness to work in a nonprofit environment. *Overview of Position: *We seek a qualified botanist or plant ecologist to manage our Plant Conservation Research Program. This program conducts studies and long term monitoring of plant populations primarily in Oregon with funding from a diversity of government and private agencies. Areas of emphasis include evaluation of habitat management practices on rare plant and butterfly populations, habitat restoration and species reintroduction; development of invasive species assessment and control methods; assessing effects of climate change; conducting population viability analysis; and long-term population monitoring. There will also be some opportunity to initiate new research, particularly in collaboration with program partners. This position will join our technical staff of able ecologists, and will work with a wide range of federal, state and private agencies to implement a broad variety of projects, mostly on federal lands. *Specific responsibilities:* *Program management* - Plan and manage day-to-day aspects of the Conservation Research Program, including staff, budget, coordination with IAE business office and other programs, and working with the Executive Director. - Obtain funding for program staff and research activities, largely through grants from agencies. - Communicate with agency partners about projects and conservation research activities through written reports, emails, orally and in person as needed. - Supervise a staff of 2-8 ecologists and technicians. - Mentor Conservation Interns hired seasonally to assist with projects. - Plan and coordinate field research activities including field work, botanical surveys, plant propagation and outplanting, data collection, statistical analysis, etc. - Write annual technical reports on individual projects, as well as manuscripts for publication as appropriate on a case by case basis. *Field Work* - Conduct field research activities, approximately 70% of time April-August; occasionally during the remainder of year. Activities include botanical surveys, plant propagation and outplanting, measuring of individual, population, and community data. - Overnight (1-4 nights/week) out-of-town travel and field work will be required approximately 30% of the time. Overnight travel is expected seasonally (primarily April - August) and on an as needed basis. *Required Education:* PhD plus 3-5 years of relevant experience or MS plus 5-10 years of relevant experience in ecology or related field. *Required Qualifications:* - Broad understanding of ecological principals, habitat management, and conservation biology. - Demonstrated understanding of experimental design within a variety of systems and methodologies and ability to perform advanced statistical analyses. - Highly organized. Experience managing multiple simultaneous projects, preparing and managing budgets, and supervising staff in a team environment. - Successful track record of funded grant proposals. - Proficiency with computer software packages including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access) and statistical software. - Strong people skills. Positive, outgoing, energetic, and flexible. - Strong written and oral communication skills to both technical and non-technical audiences. - Must be physically capable of walking on uneven terrain for sustained periods, lifting moderate
Re: [ECOLOG-L] definitions in (community) ecology
Folks might want to take a look at this paper (after doing the survey!). Fauth, J. E., J. Bernardo, M. Camara, W. J. Resetarits, Jr., S.A. McCollum, and J. Van Buskirk. 1996. A conceptual approach to simplifying the jargon of community ecology. American Naturalist 147:282-286. It includes definitions based on the original usage of the terms and a logical conceptual framework. You can get the pdf from my sadly in need of updating website. http://www.myweb.ttu.edu/wresetar/ It would be interesting to see how differently these terms are actually used, since my impression is that usage of most of these terms does not show any consistency with actual definitions. In common usage, it seems a community is still that group of organisms on which I worked. Community is thus used in place of every set included in the survey (and many that are not). So, while most may be able to define the terms, they may still not use them consistent with the definitions. Part of the problem is that predator communities and prey communities are particularly common usages that fit no known definition of community. So, while we have good definitions for many sets in community ecology, the particular constructs of predator and prey are more than a little problematic when dealing with groups that are not taxonomically proscribed. Some sets of predators might be roughly categorized as a guild, but diverse sets of predators that don't utilize similar resources in a similar way present a definitional problem. So, predators, in general usage, share a vaguely defined common food type. How should one refer to all the predators in a given locality? I would argue that predator communities is a non sequitur, since I know of no communities that consist only of predators, and few that consist primarily of predators. But what is a proper description of a set of predators? For prey, it is even more vague, since the only thing prey share is the risk of being eaten. And so prey communities makes even less sense logically, since you can't even BE prey unless there are predators in your community! I have searched in vain for a simply term from the actuarial and insurance side of things for groups that share a common risk. What should we call groups of unrelated prey in a community. Simply saying prey, like predator, does not specify a set, but can refer to single or multiple prey species. William J. Resetarits, Jr. Professor Department of Biological Sciences Texas Tech University Lubbock, Texas 79409-3131 Phone: (806) 742-2710, ext.300 Fax (806) 742-2963 http://www.festivalofecology.org/100-influential-papers http://www.unifr.ch/biol/ecology/sayingseco.html On 2/18/14 10:41 AM, Nathan Lemoine lemoine.nat...@gmail.com wrote: Hey everyone, We¹re taking a survey to find out how certain terms are used in ecology (and how prevalent their use is) since we see them used interchangeably. We¹re asking researchers from all levels (undergrad, grad, professor, non-academic) to define a set of common terms in ecology, like assemblage and community. The survey is short, four questions with two supplemental info questions. We¹d appreciate your taking the time to fill it out! The web address: http://climateecology.wordpress.com/ Thanks! Nate and Andy
[ECOLOG-L] Ecologists Needed: nominations due Feb 21 for international assessments of biodiversity and ecosystem issues
DEADLINE: February 21, 2014 Would you like to be a member of a platform to improve the role of science in international policy decisions? The Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES; www.ipbes.net) is a global program intended to strengthen the role of science in decision-making related to the conservation and sustainable management of biodiversity and ecosystem services. Like the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the Biodiversity Ecosystem Services panel is designed to supply the best available science to governments and decision makers worldwide in a time of rapid global change. IPBES is, however, an independent program with both a broader scope and a stronger emphasis on local and regional assessments and strategies. To promote this science-policy interface, IPBES is seeking scientists for expert groups. The U.S. government and IPBES welcome contributions from a broad multidisciplinary community of natural and social scientists. ESA invites the leadership of professional societies, nongovernmental organizations, and other groups to send nominations to our Office of Science Programs, where they will be collated and forwarded to U.S. government representatives to IPBES. Expert areas include: -- Pollination and food production -- Production and integration of assessments -- Scenario analysis and modeling of biodiversity ecosystem services -- Methods for valuing biodiversity and nature’s benefits to people -- A catalog of policy support tools and methodologies Find more information, including more details on the expert groups and the application form, here: http://www.esa.org/esa/?page_id=10615 DEADLINE: February 21, 2014
Re: [ECOLOG-L] definitions in (community) ecology
Sure! Here’s a direct link to the survey for those that don’t want to be redirected through the blog first: http://vcae.polldaddy.com/s/definitions-in-ecology -Nate On Feb 18, 2014, at 1:43 PM, Stavros, Natasha (3246-Affiliate) natasha.stav...@jpl.nasa.gov wrote: A direct link to the survey would improve the number of responses you get I'M sure. E. Natasha Stavros, Ph.D. Post-Doctoral Research Scientist Jet Propulsion Laboratory 4800 Oak Grove Drive, M/S 233-300 Pasadena, Ca 91109-8099 p: 818-354-5452 On 2/18/14 8:41 AM, Nathan Lemoine lemoine.nat...@gmail.com wrote: Hey everyone, We¹re taking a survey to find out how certain terms are used in ecology (and how prevalent their use is) since we see them used interchangeably. We¹re asking researchers from all levels (undergrad, grad, professor, non-academic) to define a set of common terms in ecology, like assemblage and community. The survey is short, four questions with two supplemental info questions. We¹d appreciate your taking the time to fill it out! The web address: http://climateecology.wordpress.com/ Thanks! Nate and Andy
[ECOLOG-L] Water Quality Outreach Specialist
National Great Rivers Research and Education Center (NGRREC) is currently accepting applications for a Water Quality Outreach Specialist who will, under the direction of the Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant, work with NGRREC to develop an extension and technology transfer program on nutrient and related water quality issues to inform community decision makers, policy makers and resource managers in the Mississippi River Basin and Gulf of Mexico, and work closely with IISG personnel, faculty and staff from the University of Illinois, NGRREC and appropriate state and federal agencies. See: http://www.ngrrec.org/News-Stories/Announcements/JobPostings/ --- Lisa G. Chambers, Ph.D. Assistant Professor Dept. of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences Saint Louis University Phone: (314) 977-3276 Fax: (314) 977-3117 http://chamberslab.weebly.com/
[ECOLOG-L] Research Training Opportunity with EPA - GIS global change
Dear Colleagues, Please share this announcement with any recent or soon-to-graduate Master’s students with geospatial analysis and programming skills. We have an opening for a global change research training opportunity and we are looking for a candidate with a strong background using geospatial software (e.g., ArcGIS) and a firm grasp of at least one programming language (e.g., Python). The successful applicant will work with an interdisciplinary group of scientists in the Washington, D.C. area and learn how spatial analyses, modeling and scientific programming can be used by EPA to address research questions and issues related to climate and land-use change. A copy of the fellowship announcement is included below. Thank you for your help in circulating this announcement to appropriate applicants. Please direct any questions to Phil Morefield (morefield.phi...@epa.gov; 703-308-8135). A link to the announcement: http://orise.orau.gov/epa/applicants/description.aspx?JobId=14596 Develop and Use Geospatial Tools and Models to Analyze Impacts of Global Change Scenarios Research Participation Program Office of Research and Development National Center for Environmental Assessment U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Arlington, VA EPA-ORD/NCEA-IO-2014-01 Project Description: A postgraduate research training opportunity is currently available at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Office of Research and Development (ORD), National Center for Environmental Assessment (NCEA). This appointment will be served with the Global Change Research Program (GCRP) in Arlington, Virginia. The GCRP builds the capacity of programs, managers, and other decision- makers to assess and respond to global change (i.e., climate and land use) impacts on the environment and human health. The purpose of this research project is to develop and use geospatial tools, models, and workflows that facilitate integrated analyses of large datasets (e.g., land use, climate, and hydrologic model outputs). Joining an interdisciplinary staff of global change scientists, the selected participant may have the opportunity to: identify ways in which advanced geospatial analysis and modeling can be leveraged to achieve current and future project goals; develop tools and computer programs that automate geospatial and scientific workflows; analyze national datasets using spatial statistics; and develop figures, reports, presentations, and other materials that communicate research methods and results. The central focus of this research project is to develop geospatial tools, models, and datasets that improve our ability to analyze and understand the implications of plausible scenarios of global change. The research participant may be involved in one or more of the following research components: �X Developing and refining a land-use change model (e.g., ICLUS) and analyze outputs �X Developing tools that automate processing, analyzing, and summarizing large spatial and tabular datasets describing climate, land use, or other environmental changes �X Analyzing land use model output and identify implications for environmental endpoints (e.g., water quality) �X Describing methods and results in reports and journal articles �X Presenting research results at meetings and conferences The research participant will become familiar with the latest approaches, frameworks and models for understanding and addressing changes in climate, land use, and hydrology. S/he will learn: how geospatial software and scientific programming can be used to summarize information and develop tools that satisfy needs of EPA as well as the broader research community; how to critically evaluate climate, land use, and hydrologic model output and to identify both opportunities and limitations when using those data in research; and, how both detailed modeling and high-level assessment activities are used to accomplish EPA’s mission. This research training opportunity will provide an exceptional professional development opportunity in a highly collaborative, multidisciplinary environment. The research participant will have access to a team of experts collaborating in and across disciplines (geography, ecology, hydrology) on emerging and high-profile research topics. S/he will also have opportunities to submit research results for publication in peer reviewed journals. Qualifications: Applicants must have received a master’s degree in geography, computer science, climatology, landscape ecology, hydrology, or other environmental science, within five years of the desired starting date, or have completed all degree requirements prior to the start date. Familiarity with climate or land use change research is helpful. The appointment is full-time for one year and may be renewed upon recommendation of EPA and subject to availability of funds. The participant will receive a stipend. The participant must
[ECOLOG-L] Summer 2014 Student Contractor/Biological Technician Position - Patuxent Wildlife Resarch Center, Laurel, MD
The USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center in Laurel, Maryland is seeking to hire two full-time temporary student contractors to assist with the North American Breeding Bird Survey program (*www.pwrc.usgs.gov/BBS http://www.pwrc.usgs.gov/BBS)*, a long-term, continental avian monitoring program. Tasks will include working with wildlife survey data, performance of quality assurance and quality control procedures on biological data, data entry, assisting with database management, photocopying and filing, preparation of maps and assisting in preparation of administrative correspondence. *Application deadline:* Interested applicants should submit their resume and cover letter by *February 24, 2014. * Deadline extended. *Statement of Work* 1. *Types of services required: *During the spring field season, approximately 3000 BBS routes are sampled by participants skilled in avian identification. These data are then processed and analyzed by USGS to inform avian conservation efforts in the U.S. and Canada. Tasks will include processing incoming data and materials, performing data entry and quality control procedures using web-based and Teleform OCR technologies, tracking progress, assisting with database management, photocopying, scanning and filing materials, map preparation, and corresponding with participants. 2. *Required expertise/skills:* a. Applicants are required to have completed two years of undergraduate course work (student must be at least a second semester sophomore). b. Applicants must be majors in Biology, Wildlife Management, Environmental Science, or similar field. c. Applicants must be able to communicate effectively in English both verbally and in writing. d. Applicants must have knowledge of computer software used to summarize and visualize data (i.e. Excel and Access). e. Knowledge of North American birds is not required, but considered a plus. 3. *Eligibility requirements: *To be eligible for a student contract position, applicants must be either a currently enrolled student or a recent graduate. To qualify as a student, the applicant must be enrolled at least half-time in a degree-seeking program at an accredited college or university. Former students who graduated more than 10 months ago or who left school without graduating are not eligible to work under these contracts. Applicants will be required to show proof of their student status (or recent graduation). USGS employees, their spouses, and children are not eligible to participate in this program. U.S. citizens are eligible. Non-U.S. citizens may be eligible to participate, depending on their immigration status and the applicable regulations of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (formerly Immigration and Naturalization Service). Foreign students in the U.S. under F-1 visas are usually not able to participate in this program, due to USCIS restrictions against off-campus work. 4. *Description of working conditions: *Work will be performed in an office environment located on the USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center campus in Laurel, Maryland. Extended periods of computer use will be required. This is not a field or laboratory position. 5. *Compensation: *The student contractor will be paid $14.12 per hour. Student contractors are paid only for hours worked (no holiday or leave benefits). Student is responsible for all costs of transportation to and from the principal duty station location. The Government does not provide housing, meals or other living expenses while working at the principal duty station. Official travel away from the duty station is not expected. 6. *Principal Duty Station: *USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, 12100 Beech Forest Road, Laurel, Maryland 20708-4038. Student contractors may enter the building only during business hours or when project manager is present. 7. *Additional information: *Number of students required is two. Estimated number of hours for the position is 544 (full-time for summer). There is a possibility of additional part-time hours continuing into the fall semester. The approximate start date is May 27, 2014. The approximate end date is August 30, 2013. There is flexibility in start and end dates to accommodate variations in academic calendars. 8. *How to apply: *Send resume and cover letter to Keith Pardieck via email (*kpardi...@usgs.gov kpardi...@usgs.gov*). Applications must be received on or before *February 24, 2014*. In your cover letter include an explanation of how you meet the eligibility requirements, your expected graduation date, and discuss your experience as related to sections 1 and 2 above. - Keith L. Pardieck National Coordinator North American Breeding Bird Survey USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center 12100 Beech Forest Road Laurel, MD 20708 301-497-5843 (Tel) www.pwrc.usgs.gov/bbs
[ECOLOG-L] Paid summer internship opportunities with DataONE
Dear Colleague We are pleased to invite applications for the DataONE 2014 Summer Internship Program. Eleven projects are available for consideration, ranging from provenance, to open science software development, to semantics, to online education and video development. A full list of projects is provided below and more information can be found at: www.dataone.org/internships. DataONE 2014 Summer Internship Projects 1. Enabling Data Annotation: Integrating User Management into the DataONE Metadata Environment 2. Integrating Ontology Search and Recommendation into the DataONE Metadata Environment 3. Scaffolding Citizen Science Projects to Improve the Quality of Citizen Science Data Through Targeted APIs Supporting Collection and Integration of Citizen Science Data into DataONE Member Nodes 4. Tuning the Citizen Science Instrument for Gathering Data While Documenting Data Quality 5. Providing Provenance Trace in OPeNDAP Hyrax Served Science Data in a DataONE Member Node 6. Understanding and Using Provenance from Digital Notebooks 7. Community Sustainable Scientific Metadata Standards Directory 8. SimilarityExplorer: Inspire Climate Science Discovery Through Advanced Big Data Analysis 9. Implementing Add-On Features that add Value to DataONE and Center for Open Science Communities 10. Creating Engaging Video Shorts for Stories About Data Management and Sharing 11. Developing Screencast Tutorials for DataONE Tools and Resources Open to undergraduate students, graduate students, and postgraduates who have received their degree within the past five years, the Summer Internship Program provides a $5,000 stipend for a for a nine week work period starting late May. Applicants must have a valid Visa to work in the US and be resident in the US during the internship period. Please forward this email to your students and within your circles. The application deadline is March 18th 2014. Full information and application details can be found at: www.dataone.org/internships. Additional questions can be addressed to interns...@dataone.org. Best Regards Amber Budden -- Amber E Budden, PhD Director for Community Engagement and Outreach DataONE University of New Mexico 1312 Basehart SE Albuquerque, NM 87106 Tel: 505-814-1112 Cell: 505-205-7675 Fax: 505-246-6007
[ECOLOG-L] For-Credit Summer Food, Farm, and Sustainability Institute
Food, Farm, and Sustainability Institute June 2-July 11, 2014 The Food, Farm, and Sustainability Institute at Hampshire College is an interdisciplinary academic program focusing on food production and sustainable agriculture, centered at the vibrant Hampshire College Farm Center. Over a 6-week period, students will gain hands-on work experience with the guidance of the Farm Center staff, learn through inquiry-based projects mentored by faculty with a range of expertise, and acquire ownership of knowledge through independent research projects. The institute will follow food from its origin in the soil, through plant cultivation and animal management; address issues in public health and politics; and end up in the kitchen, breaking bread and assessing the character of the food we produce and eat. Summary of Key Topics include: Agroecology; Organic and Sustainable Agriculture Soil Health and Sustainability Pest Management Food Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Safety Animals in Agroecosystems Course Credits Hampshire College recommends the equivalent of 8 academic credits for the completion of this program. Students are strongly encouraged to apply before the priority application deadline of April 14, 2014. Admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis. Find more information and apply here: http://www.hampshire.edu/academics/Food-Farm-and-Sustainability-Institute.htm Questions? Email f...@hampshire.edu or call 413.559.6843.
[ECOLOG-L] International Conference on Invasive Spartina
The fourth International Conference on Invasive Spartina will be held July 7-10 at the University of Rennes in France. Plants in the genus Spartina play important ecological roles within their native ranges, and have had large ecological impacts as invasive species outside their native ranges. The meeting will cover both fundamental biology and applied research on the genus. For more information, see the conference website at http://ici-spartina2014.univ-rennes1.fr/index.php.
[ECOLOG-L] Two funded positions for MSc. Graduate Students available at CSU Northridge
I am posting this on behalf of colleagues (Drs. Steve Dudgeon and Janet Kubler). Please direct inquires to janet.kub...@csun.edu. - Please see the ads below describing two positions for prospective graduate students seeking MSc degrees in marine biology and pass along to students you think may be interested. The positions are funded for 2 years beginning this summer or fall semester 2014. Please not the deadline for completed applications of 15 March 2014. (1) Implications of oceanic pH change for nutrient availability to algae. Two-year graduate assistantship for a research Masters of Science in Biology to address the interaction of ocean acidification and nutrient enrichment on *Ulva sp*. Assistantship includes salary, research expenses, travel to conferences and potential reduced or waived tuition, for either U.S. or international students. We are looking for a motivated student with an interest in the broader context of climate change and human impacts on the environment, to join a growing research group in Marine Biology at California State University at Northridge, beginning Summer or Fall 2014. Contact Dr. Janet Kübler janet.kub...@csun.edu for more information and to arrange to visit the lab, or apply directly to the Biology Department ( http://www.csun.edu/science-mathematics/biology/ms-admission-process-and-requirements) Applications must be received by March 15, 2014. (2) The primary production bonus of ocean acidification. Two-year graduate assistantship for a research Masters of Science in Biology to investigate the possibility that *Ulva sp*. will have greater rates of primary production as ocean pH declines. Assistantship includes salary, research expenses, travel to conferences and potential reduced or waived tuition, for either U.S. or international students. We are looking for a motivated student with an interest in the broader context of climate change and human impacts on the environment, to join a growing research group in Marine Biology at California State University at Northridge, beginning Summer or Fall 2014. Contact Dr. Janet Kübler janet.kub...@csun.edu for more information and to arrange to visit the lab, or apply directly to the Biology Department ( http://www.csun.edu/science-mathematics/biology/ms-admission-process-and-requirements) Applications must be received by March 15, 2014.
[ECOLOG-L] POSITION: KISC Manager
KISC Project Manager Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit (PCSU) Kauai Invasive Species Committee (KISC), located in Wailua, Kauai. Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws. RCUH Job ID#: 13742 MINIMUM MONTHLY SALARY: $3,620/Mon. (Salary commensurate with qualifications). DUTIES: Translates the Action Plan and guidance by the Kauai Invasive Species Committee (KISC) Chairperson or designee into appropriate action. Under oversight of the KISC Chairperson or designee, manages KISC field operations. Leads, supervises, and works with a team toward eradication/control of invasive alien plant and animal species targeted in the KISC strategic plan. Augments paid staff efforts with effective assistance from volunteers and work-training programs. Assures favorable public relations and quality control of action by the team. Obtains necessary permissions from landowners prior to action by the crew. Establishes and implements protocols to prevent seed dispersal by crew. Assures that information on plants and animals treated/controlled is kept in project records. Evaluates data and transmits periodically to appropriate KISC-designated repository for archiving and updating of Global Information System maps. Works with funding agencies to identify and obtain financial support for projects. Writes proposals to various agencies for funding. Gives presentations and communicates with funding agencies, partners, and the public. Prepares and tracks budgets and expenses. Prepares substantive written periodic progress reports for KISC and funding sources, annual report, press releases, and technical reports. Attends Coordinating Group on Alien Pest Species (CGAPS), KISC, and all Invasive Species Committee (ISC) meetings. Participates in outreach with community groups and with minors. PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION: Bachelors Degree from an accredited four (4) year college or university in Resources Management or related field (e.g. Biology, Botany, Forestry, Geography) (a minimum of two (2) years (e.g., 48 credit hours) of college-level coursework at an accredited college or university plus a minimum of five (5) years of administrative/managerial experience may substitute for Bachelors Degree). EXPERIENCE: Two to four (2-4) years of experience in project management involving planning, scheduling, internal/external relations, and administration. Two to four (2-4) years of supervisory or leadership experience. ABIL/KNOW/SKILLS: Knowledge of how to implement a natural resource-related project. Knowledge of the environmental, economic, and human impacts of invasive species. Excellent organizational, leadership supervision, and demonstrated ability to communicate clearly both orally and in writing. Have strong public speaking skills. Ability to read maps and aerial photographs and use geographic positioning systems (GPS). Advanced computer skills using programs such as Arcview, Microsoft Office including spreadsheets, and database (MS Access) management. Ability to work with small-mechanized equipment (chain saws, etc.). Must possess a valid drivers license and be able to drive a 4-wheel drive vehicle. Post Offer/Employment Conditions: Must be able to pass a post offer criminal background check. Must be able to complete basic helicopter safety course within twelve (12) months of hire. Must possess the American Red Cross Certification in First Aid/CPR (or be able to obtain the certificate following the training provided within three (3) months of hire). Must be able to obtain State of Hawaii Certification for Application of Restricted Use Pesticides within twelve (12) months of hire. PHYSICAL/MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS: Fieldwork will require excellent physical condition and coordination. Ability to lift and carry up to forty (40) pounds. SECONDARY QUALIFICATIONS: Demonstrated experience in grant preparation and fund raising. Familiarity with tropical and subtropical ecosystem and landscape. Knowledge of Hawaiian culture and biota and the threats from incipient alien plant and animal invasions. INQUIRIES: Allan Rietow 639-7544 (Kauai). APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: Please go to www.rcuh.com, click on Employment; select Apply and navigate to See Job Announcements and/or Apply for a Job. You must submit the following documents online to be considered for the position: 1) Cover Letter, 2) Resume, 3) Salary History, 4) Supervisory References, 5) Copy of Degree(s)/Transcript(s)/Certificate(s). All online applications must be submitted/received by the closing date (11:59 P.M. Hawaii Standard Time/RCUH receipt time) as stated on the job posting. If you do not have access to our system and the closing date is imminent, you may send additional
[ECOLOG-L] AIC MODEL SELECTION AND MULTIMODEL INFERENCE COURSES
ALTERNATIVE HYPOTHESES AND AIC MODEL SELECTION Research workers in many fields are realizing the substantial limitations of statistical tests, test statistics, arbitrary #945;-levels, P-values, and dichotomous rulings concerning statistical significance. These traditional approaches were developed at the beginning of the last century and are being replaced by modern methods that are much more useful. These methods rely on the concept of information loss and formal evidence. They provide easy-to-compute quantities such at the probability of each hypothesis/model and evidence ratios. Furthermore, simple methods allow formal inference (e.g. prediction/forecasting) from all the models in an a priori set (multimodel inference). I am planning to offer several 2-day courses on the Information-Theoretic approaches to statistical inference during March-June, 2014. These courses focus on the practical application of these new methods and are based on Kullback-Leibler information and Akaikes information criterion (AIC). The material follows the recent textbook, Anderson, D. R. 2008. Model based inference in the life sciences: a primer on evidence. Springer, New York, NY. 184pp. A copy of this book, a reference sheet, and several handouts are included in the registration fee. These courses stress science and science philosophy as much as statistical methods. The focus is on quantification and qualification of formal evidence concerning alternative science hypotheses. These courses can be hosted, organized, and delivered at your university, agency, institute, or training center. I have given 65 of these courses and they have been well received. The courses are informal and discussion and debate is encouraged. Further insights can be found at www.informationtheoryworkshop.com if are interested in hosting a course at your location, please contact me. Thank you. David R. Anderson quietander...@yahoo.com
