[ECOLOG-L] Graduate research assistantship in Insect Ecology
I have funding to support a graduate research assistantship for a M.S. or Ph.D. in the Department of Entomology at Michigan State University. My lab studies the ecology of insects in agriculture with a focus on the interactions among plants, herbivores, and natural enemies. The current project addresses how insects respond to different soil tillage practices, in particular the ecology of fear in food webs, in organic agroecosystems. Student applicants should be highly enthusiastic and interested in working at the interface of ecology, entomology, and agriculture. The position comes with an annual stipend, full tuition waiver, and benefits package including health insurance. Preferred start date is Summer or Fall 2015, although this may be flexible. For additional information visit the following websites: Szendrei Lab: http://vegetable.ent.msu.edu Michigan State Entomology: http://www.ent.msu.edu Interested individuals should apply by sending an updated C.V. and recent GRE scores to Zsofia Szendrei via email (szend...@msu.edu). --- Zsofia Szendrei Assistant Professor Department of Entomology Michigan State University 348 Food Safety and Toxicology Bldg. 1129 Farm Lane, East Lansing, MI 48824 Email: szend...@msu.edu Cell: 517-974-8610 Website: http://vegetable.ent.msu.edu/
[ECOLOG-L] Tropical Avian Ecology Field Course
2015 SUMMER COURSE ANNOUNCEMENT (July 15-Aug 9) FIELD COURSE IN TROPICAL AVIAN ECOLOGY (TAE C-15) COURSE LOCATION: Bocas del Toro Biological Station, Boca del Drago, Isla Colon, Republic of Panama. The biological station is located on a hill facing the Caribbean Sea. Coral reef and seagrass ecosystems lie in front of the station and lowland tropical rain forests surround us. This juxtaposition of the two most biologically diverse ecosystems provides tremendous opportunities for education and research. See: http://www.itec-edu.org/ for details. INSTRUCTOR: Scott T. Walter, Ph.D., Tulane University, tel: 337-591-1188, email: scott.t.wal...@gmail.com, Specialty: bird ecology, reproduction, behavior, systematics and conservation. COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course will begin with an introduction to the ecology and conservation of tropical birds within the context of how a wide range of species utilize and interact with diverse ecosystems. We will learn extensive field identification techniques to facilitate identification of a variety of bird species from families common in the U.S., as well as species in families unique to the Neotropics. Field observations will also be used to identify various bird guilds, and to study avian habitat use across different landscapes around the ITEC field station. A review of avian conservation topics will then transition the class into field research. Following training in ecological study design, students will form small groups to conduct research projects. We will address data management, statistical analysis, and presentation techniques as students prepare to orally present their research results. Finally, each student will design and implement an independent research project that includes data analysis and formal presentation. Lectures in research manuscript preparation will guide students in writing short reports on group and individual research projects. FORMAL LECTURES: Throughout the course there will be classroom lectures that provide the foundation for the avian ecology and conservation information that we will further observe and study in the field. As different birds are active at different times of the day and night, our schedule will vary to accommodate the study of particular species. The majority of our time will be spent observing and studying birds in the field. Lecture topics may include: Ø Tropical bird background Ø Residents and migratory species Ø Bird field identification Ø Avian guilds Ø Niche partitioning: habitat use vs. availability Ø Bird conservation topics Ø Bird research in the tropics Ø Importance of seed dispersal by birds Ø Bird demographic measures Ø Research paper critiquing Ø Experimental design and data collection Ø Research implementation; planning and logistics Ø Data management Ø Statistical analysis Ø Research presentation pointers Ø Research manuscript preparation INFORMAL LECTURES: Informal lectures will be provided periodically during orientation walks, during group field projects or in discussion groups. These will cover a wide variety of topics and will generally be prompted by what we encounter in the field, or by the direction taken during group discussions. READINGS: Readings corresponding to lecture subjects will be assigned in the texts. We will also read and critique papers brought by students and faculty and additional readings may be assigned from time to time. TEXTS, READINGS AND HANDOUTS: - The Birds of Panama, George R. Angehr and Robert Dean. Zona Tropical Publications. 2010. ISBN: 978-0-9798804-5-2. - Select readings from Behavioral Ecology of Tropical Birds, Bridget J.M. Stutchbury and Eugene S. Morton. Academic Press 2001, 165pp. ISBN: 978-0-12-67-8. - Select readings from Ornithology, Third Edition, Frank Gill, W.H. Freeman and Company, New York, 2007. ISBN 978-0-71-674983-7 - Select research articles. FIELD BOOK: A water-proof field notebook will be required in the course. The field book will contain all data related to group projects and independent research project. The field book should also contain all other incidental observations such as species lists, behavioral notes, etc., and contain detailed location information. FIELD PROJECTS: Course emphasis will be placed on hands-on experience with a wide variety of bird observation and sampling techniques. Field outings may include: Ø Field observations, sampling and survey techniques Ø Use of mist nets Ø Seed dispersal by birds Ø Use of rocket-, woosh, or cannon nets Ø Bird morphometric measures Ø Seabird colony visit to Bird Island Ø Dawn chorus auditory observation Ø Nocturnal bird auditory observation Ø Point count surveys Ø Habitat use vs. availability surveys Ø Nesting behavior Ø Foraging behavior INDIVIDUAL RESEARCH PROJECTS: Following group project completion and professor feedback, students will develop an ecological research question of their own interest, design a study, and implement the
[ECOLOG-L] Bioinfomatics workshop in Raleigh, NC update: Location set 5 available spots
Hi Everyone- We have booked into a conference space at Raleigh HQ and believe it will provide us with the space and resources we need for a terrific workshop. 310 S. Harrington Street Raleigh, NC 27603 http://hqraleigh.com/ For those of you who are traveling, there are several reasonable hotel and Air BnB options nearby. If you have any affiliation with NC state, their Raleigh campus has guest accommodations as well. I have attached a flyer for the workshop and full workshop details/registration info is here: https://biodatatraining.wordpress.com/
[ECOLOG-L] Plant and Foretry mini-symposium, New Forest, UK
PEPG New Forest Walk and Talk Please join us for a 2-day residential conference in the New Forest from 27th-29th April! The conference consists of a day of walks in the New Forest learning all about the historic landscape and current work being undertaken there. Day 2 is a day of talks by delegates around the theme of plants in a changing environment. This conference is highly relevant to both plant scientist and conservationists. Plus it is an absolute bargain: only £50 (SEB or BES members) or £80 (non-members) and covers all you accommodation, food, refreshments, transport during the conference, day of guided walks in the New Forest and day of conference talks! All you need to do is get yourself to Brockenhurst train station! Email: z.m.har...@soton.ac.uk for more info. Register here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/pepg-new-forest-walk-and-talk-tickets- 15156703107 DEADLINE: 27th March 2015
[ECOLOG-L] Geoviz. Visiting Assistant Professor - Miami University
Oxford, Ohio, 45056. Miami University. Visiting Assistant Professor with research and teaching expertise in geovisualization; including interactive digital and web mapping, applied techniques in GIS, and/or visual analytics. The successful candidate will design and teach a new course in Geovisualization, as well as teach Mapping a Changing World (242), and the introductory Human Geography course (101). The successful candidate is expected to contribute to the recently approved Geospatial Analysis Center (GAC) in the Department of Geography. Require: Ph.D. for appointment as Visiting Assistant Professor, ABD status for appointment as Instructor; training and experience appropriate for responsibilities. Desire: Ph.D.; teaching experience. Submit letter of application, vita, list of three references, evidence of teaching effectiveness, and a sample syllabus for the Geovisualization course (submitted as “other document”) to www.miamiujobs.com/applicants/Central?quickFind=53640. Contact phone number is 513-529-5010. For more information about the department consult the web site at www.miamioh.edu/geography. Screening of applications begins April 13 and continues until the position is filled. Miami University, an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer with smoke- and tobacco-free campuses, is committed to a multicultural environment and strongly encourages applications from minorities, females, veterans and individuals with disabilities. Miami’s Annual Security and Fire Safety Report with information on campus crime, fires, and safety may be found at: http://www.MiamiOH.edu/campus- safety/annual-report/index.html. Hard copy available upon request. Employment will require a criminal background check according to University guidelines.
[ECOLOG-L] Postdoc: Computational Genomics @ Lawton-Rauh Lab, Clemson Uni
Computational Genomics Postdoctoral Research Associate Position Clemson University The Lawton-Rauh Lab is recruiting a computational genomics postdoctoral research associate to join the RosBREED team on the newly-funded RosBREED2 project (www.rosbreed.orghttp://www.rosbreed.org; USDA-Specialty Crops Research Initiative, 5 years). The RosBREED team is an extensive collaboration amongst computational scientists, breeders, geneticists, physiologists, pathologists, and socio-economists. A major goal of this project is to translate genome evolution and diversity/divergence amongst cultivars and wild relatives into modern DNA-based diagnostic tools to help deliver new cultivars with combined superior horticultural quality and disease resistance. This computational genomics scientist will be based at Clemson University to work with Amy Lawton-Rauh as postdoctoral advisor. Resources will include the Institute for Translational Genomics (Stephen Kresovich), the CU-Genomics and Computational Biology Lab (Chris Saski), and research computing training opportunities (http://citi.clemson.edu/ciprac/). This position is targeted to begin late spring/early summer 2015 and is currently funded for two years. Activities: The major research focus for this postdoc will be on comparative genomics analysis of domestication-related genome regions plus locus-specific and genome-wide haploblock discovery and diagnostic tool implementation and optimization. This post has several specific, cutting-edge objectives for basic research-enabled tool development to successfully achieve goals of this grant coupled with excellent opportunities for other related exploratory projects. Scientific publications, extension articles, participation in conferences and project meetings, and networking across breeding programs and allied science programs both U.S-wide and internationally are expected. Job functions: *Work with the CU-GCBL web portal computational genomics group to collate and curate relevant genome sequence data from multiple platforms *Employ and optimize comparative analytical methods to discover haplotype blocks (haploblocks) in cultivars, diverse germplasm, and wild relatives *Actively participate in networking and project team activities (including extensively with the international RosBREED group) *Communicate results in multiple formats (journals, conferences, project reports, plus miscellaneous relevant media) Qualifications: Applicants must have a Ph.D. in Genetics, Bioinformatics, Genomics, Computational Biology, Biological Sciences, Crop Sciences, or a closely related field. The successful candidate will be a highly motivated team player with excellent communication skills and computational genomics experience. Preference will be given to candidates with evidence of successful management and documentation of large datasets and a strong publication record. Experiences with complex genomes, diverse sequencing platforms, workflow implementation and optimization, creative problem-solving, and a commitment to translation of genome dynamics models to practical applications are highly desired. Familiarity with the following is advantageous but not required: statistical genetics, population and quantitative genetics, and domestication processes. Pay work schedule: Standard hours: 37.5. Salary will be commensurate with credentials and experience. This position is funded for two years. Applying: If you are interested in this position, please send inquiries to Amy Lawton-Rauh (am...@clemson.edumailto:am...@clemson.edu). To apply, email the following: a cover letter, current CV, and the contact information (phone number and email address) of three referees. Consideration of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. To ensure full consideration, please submit materials by April 3, 2015. Applications will be reviewed as received and qualified applicants will be invited to interview on or after April 3, 2015 or until the position is filled. JOB LOCATION: Biosystems Research Complex (BRC) - Clemson Main Campus The Jeanne Clery Disclosure Act requires institutions of higher education to disclose campus security information including crime statistics for the campus and surrounding areas. As a current or prospective Clemson University employee, you have a right to obtain a copy of this information for this institution. For more information regarding our Employment, Campus Safety and Benefits, please visit the Human Resources-Prospective Employees web page below: http://www.clemson.edu/cao/humanresources/prospective/ Clemson University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any individual or group of individuals on the basis of age, color, disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status or genetic
[ECOLOG-L] Clarkson Early Career Colloquium in Bioscience Crossing Disciplines
This Miniconference is open to early-career scientists in the biosciences, including ecology and evolution - especially those who take an interdisciplinary approach, and who are interested in small research and teaching intensive university positions as a career option. You can email me directly if you have questions (tlan...@clarkson.edumailto:tlan...@clarkson.edu ). Tom Langen Chair, Dept. of Biology Professor, Depts. of Biology, Psychology Clarkson University . Clarkson Early Career Colloquium in Bioscience Crossing DISCIPLINES Invitation:Clarkson Early Career Colloquium in Bioscience Crossing Disciplines June 24-26, 2015 As scholars and educators in bioscience fields, the faculty and researchers at Clarkson University and its partner the Trudeau Institute are committed to expanding job opportunities and professional development for early- career bioscientists, with particular outreach to women and underrepresented minorities seeking academic appointments at small research universities that also have a strong commitment to undergraduate and graduate education. To further our goal of fostering a more diverse cohort of outstanding young scientists, we invite nominations and expressed interest to participate in the first Early Career Colloquium in Bioscience Crossing Disciplines. For this first colloquium, we are interested in broad areas of biosciences, including but not limited to bioengineering (including immunoengineering), ecological/evolutionary epidemiology, behavioral endocrinology, biotechnology, cell biology, and synthetic biology. At the Colloquium, selected participants will present in both large and small group settings, and engage in poster sessions with other established research faculty and their graduate students, from both Clarkson University and the Trudeau Institute. Significant benefits for the participants will be group discussion and individualized mentoring on all aspects of life for an early career tenure track scientist, including the job search, presentation of a job talk and posters, expectations at Universities (like Clarkson) that require both high quality teaching and productive, funded research programs, the work-life balance, and other topics that participants bring to the table. Clarkson University and the Trudeau Institute have partnered to create a world-class collaboration in biomedical sciences and the emerging field of immunoengineering. Participants in the Clarkson Early Career Colloquium will network and identify professional mentors among faculty and researchers at Clarkson University and the Trudeau Institute; learn about what a career at a small research and teaching intensive institution such as Clarkson is like, and how to be competitive for a job at one; and receive individualized, specific feedback from Clarkson and Trudeau faculty on the research talk and poster. Participants selected for the Clarkson Early Career Colloquium will have all expenses paid. To learn more about the Colloquium and Clarkson University, go to: www.clarkson.edu/colloquiumhttp://www.clarkson.edu/colloquium . Please direct questions to Dr. Tom Langen, Clarkson University Biology Department Chair (tlan...@clarkson.edumailto:tlan...@clarkson.edu). Application: Please submit a cover-letter, Curriculum Vita, and one letter of recommendation from an academic advisor or supervisor to Dr. Tom Langen, Clarkson University Biology Department Chair (tlan...@clarkson.edumailto:tlan...@clarkson.edu). The cover-letter should detail your career goals and your thoughts on why a diverse faculty is important at an institution of higher education like Clarkson University. Applications will be evaluated as they are received.
[ECOLOG-L] Upcoming webinar on measuring data use and reach from DataONE Webinar Series
Dear Colleagues Registration is now open for the third event in the DataONE Webinar Series ( www.dataone.org/webinars). *Make Data Count – measuring data use and reach** *will be presented by a panel featuring Dr. Jennifer Lin and Martin Fenner from the Public Library of Science (PLOS), Matthew Jones from the National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis (NCEAS) and DataONE, and John Kratz from California Digital Library (CDL). Date: Tuesday April 14th 0900PT / 1200 ET. Please register at www.dataone.org/upcoming-webinar *Abstract* California Digital Libraries, PLOS, and DataONE are partners in Make Data Count (http://articlemetrics.github.io/MDC/), an NSF-funded project to design and develop metrics that track and measure data use, i.e. “data-level metrics” (DLMs). DLMs are a multi-dimensional suite of indicators, measuring the broad range of activity surrounding the reach and use of data as a research output. In the webinar, we will discuss the findings from Phase 1 in which we gathered information about the needs of researchers– how do they want to get credit for the data they produce? What do they want to know about how their data is used? What do they want to know about others’ data to evaluate quality? We connected with the community to determine requirements and understand use cases for the data-level metrics prototype. We will also demo the latest from our working prototype and share the initial results (usage, citations, scholarly references and mentions, social media, etc.) collected on datasets from DataONE member repositories. -- Yiwei Wang, PhD Postdoctoral Scholar for Community Engagement and Outreach DataONE University of New Mexico 1312 Basehart SE Albuquerque, NM 87106
[ECOLOG-L] Biological Field Technician (Fisheries)
Trout Unlimited (Boise, Idaho) seeks a highly motivated biological field technician (Intern) to conduct fish and aquatic habitat surveys in southern Idaho and northern Nevada this summer. Field work will include, but is not limited to: backpack electrofishing; fish identification; stream habitat assessment; deployment of stream temperature loggers; GPS navigation; driving vehicles on poorly maintained roads; data entry and analysis. This will be a physically demanding job, involving hiking, driving, and camping in rugged terrain for 5 or more days (with 2 days off per 5 days worked). Weather conditions will be variable, with hot days being typical (up to 95 F). The position will be based out of TU’s Boise (Idaho) office, where individuals will be expected to find their own housing. Employment dates are from June 1 to August 31, 2015, although exact start and end dates are negotiable. Compensation will be from $1,500 to $2,000/month (paid bi-monthly) depending on experience, plus $20/day per diem while working in the field. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: -Enrolled in 4-year college degree program in fisheries, aquatic sciences, or a related field -Experience in stream fish and habitat sampling -Coursework in Ichthyology, or ability to identify non-game fishes -Excellent interpersonal skills, and ability to work independently and take initiative -Valid driver’s license -Previous field work in remote locations, including GPS experience -Use of 4 wheel drive vehicles or ATVs on rugged roads -Microsoft Office (including MS Access) and GIS software experience -Wilderness First Aid training HOW TO APPLY: Please send a brief cover letter describing your interest and qualifications (less than one page), resume, and contact information for two professional references via email to: Dan Dauwalter, email: ddauwalter (at) tu.org, by April, 3rd. **Please put “Biological Field Technician” in the subject line of the email.
[ECOLOG-L] Science Video on Spectral Remote Sensing of Vegetation
Hi All, We just released a new short video on the basic principles of using spectral sensors like Landsat and MODIS to characterize vegetation. You can watch it here! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3iaFzafWJQE Cheers, Leah
[ECOLOG-L] SMAPVEX15 Call for Volunteers in Tombstone, Az
All, SMAP will be conducting its first post-launch validation experiment in August 2015. The location will be Walnut Gulch, AZ (one of our core validation sites). The new PALS scanning system will fly a roughly 36 by 108 km domain temporally focused on SMAP descending overpasses. We expect that there would be 8 flights over a 3-week period beginning August 2, 2015. The exact dates will be resolved once the SMAP orbit is finalized. In addition, there will be several UAVSAR and AirMOSS flights during the study period. We are hoping to capture spatially variable convective rain events that occur in the region during this period of the year. Additional resources are being acquired to augment the precipitation and soil moisture observations available. These include more rain gages, mobile scanning rain radars, and temporary soil moisture stations. It is anticipated that these observations can be combined with high resolution hydrological modeling to provide accurate soil moisture information throughout the study domain. We are looking for volunteers to collect ground measurements as part of the campaign. These include soil moisture for calibrating in situ sensors, characterizing vegetation type and water content, and soil properties (with an emphasis on rock fraction). Beyond just collecting data, we are open to considering additional observations and people stepping up to lead activities. The base for the campaign will be the USDA ARS facility in Tombstone, AZ. The draft of the experiment plan will likely be posted within the next month. In the interim, could you please consider this request and let us know if you can participate and at what level. Thanks (PLEASE REDISTRIBUTE TO ANYONE YOU THINK MIGHT BE INTERESTED) Tom Thomas J. Jackson USDA ARS Hydrology and Remote Sensing Lab 301-646-3260 tom.jack...@ars.usda.gov
[ECOLOG-L] Epoch Times: Wildlife Is Being Lost at an Alarming R ate—Here’s Why You Should Care
I thought some of you might be interested in this article written in response to the WWF Living Planet Report. They questioned several biologists as to why the report was important. I was happy to contribute, but the comments by Ken Norris (Zool. Soc. of London), Chris Nagy (Mianus River Gorge), Rolf Skar (GreenPeach USA), Tim Caro (UC-Davis), Arne Mooers (Simon Fraser U), Doug McCauley (UC-Santa Barbara), Malin PInsky (Rutgers), and Laurel Sutherlin (Rain Forest Action Network) paint it pretty black and white. Might be an article worth showing your undergrads in particular! :) http://www.theepochtimes.com/n3/1291828-wildlife-is-being-lost-at-an-alarming-rate-heres-why-you-should-care/ Malcolm -- Malcolm L. McCallum, PHD, REP Environmental Studies Program Green Mountain College Poultney, Vermont “Nothing is more priceless and worthy of preservation than the rich array of animal life with which our country has been blessed. It is a many-faceted treasure, of value to scholars, scientists, and nature lovers alike, and it forms a vital part of the heritage we all share as Americans.” -President Richard Nixon upon signing the Endangered Species Act of 1973 into law. Peer pressure is designed to contain anyone with a sense of drive - Allan Nation 1880's: There's lots of good fish in the sea W.S. Gilbert 1990's: Many fish stocks depleted due to overfishing, habitat loss, and pollution. 2000: Marine reserves, ecosystem restoration, and pollution reduction MAY help restore populations. 2022: Soylent Green is People! The Seven Blunders of the World (Mohandas Gandhi) Wealth w/o work Pleasure w/o conscience Knowledge w/o character Commerce w/o morality Science w/o humanity Worship w/o sacrifice Politics w/o principle Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message.
[ECOLOG-L] Workshop: Amphibian Inventory and Monitoring Survey Techniques
Join us for a two day workshop on amphibian inventory and monitoring survey techniques in the beautiful Chequamegon National Forest near Cable, WI. June 22 - 23, 2015 Students will learn the importance of amphibian surveys, what amphibian assemblage and relative abundance means in terms of potential ecosystem health, and implement a variety of aquatic and terrestrial amphibian survey techniques in the field. To learn more about this workshop and other opportunities offered through 3 Sigma Institute in affiliation with Northland College and the USFS, please visit: http://www.3sigmainstitute.org/projects/FL-summer-academy/
[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship in remote sensing at Montana State University
The Spatial Sciences Center at Montana State University is seeking a highly motivated graduate student with research interests in remote sensing of ecosystem dynamics. The student will be expected to engage in ecological research that integrates novel remote sensing approaches and platforms including UAV, aerial, and satellite. Applicants should have a strong background in ecology and geospatial science, with an emphasis on remote sensing. The student should also have demonstrated field experience. Applicants with prior experience using UAVs are especially encouraged to apply. The student will be supported by a 2-year graduate research assistantship in the Department of Land Resources and Environmental Sciences at Montana State University. To learn more about the Department of Land Resources and Environmental Sciences at Montana State University please visit: http://landresources.montana.edu/; and to learn more about the research in Scott Powell’s lab, please visit: http://montana.edu/spowell/. To apply, please send a letter of interest, a resume/CV, transcripts (unofficial is fine at this stage), GRE scores, and contact details for 3 references to: Dr. Scott Powell at spow...@montana.edu. The position is available beginning in the fall of 2015, but a summer start date will also be considered.
[ECOLOG-L] Field courses at Reelfoot Lake Environmental Field Station
The University of Tennessee at Martins Reelfoot Lake Environmental Field Station is happy to announce its 2015 Maymester/Summer field courses. Anyone interested in enrolling in courses should contact Dr. Tom Blanchard at tbla...@utm.edu. Visit www.utm.edu/departments/reelfoot/ for application form and more information about the field station. 2015 Maymester and Summer Course Schedule: Field Herpetology (ZOOL 327/527) 3 semester hours) Meeting time:May 11-29 (Monday Thursday, full day) Instructor: Dr. Tom Blanchard (University of Tennessee at Martin) e-mail:tbla...@utm.edu phone:(731) 881-7594 The Reelfoot Lake area provides a great variety of aquatic and terrestrial habitats that supports a diverse assemblage of amphibians and reptiles. The lake itself is a relatively shallow, natural lake with abundant emergent and submerged vegetation and extensive areas of periodically flooded cypress forests. The loess bluffs that are to the east and south of Reelfoot Lake offer upland habitat unlike that which is found throughout most of northwest Tennessee. This course offers a great opportunity to observe a number of amphibian and reptile species in their natural habitats. The course will focus on the basic ecology of amphibians and reptiles, common techniques used to capture, handle, and mark various species, and the analysis of ecological data. Each day will include a 1 2 hr. lecture, followed by field trips to different habitats around the Reelfoot Lake area. Night-time sampling will be a common activity during this course. Prerequisites: introductory biology (BIO 130 and 140) or instructors approval. Field Ornithology (ZOOL 323/523 3 semester hours) Meeting time:June 1-July 1 (Mon., Wed., alternate Frid., Full day) Instructor: Dr. H. Dawn Wilkins (University of Tennessee at Martin) e-mail:hwilk...@utm.edu phone:(731) 881-7188 Field Ornithology is designed to teach students how to identify birds and to give students a better understanding of what it means to be a professional field ornithologist. We will investigate the numerous habitats around Reelfoot Lake as students learn to identify a wide range of species. In addition, students will use the scientific method and common field techniques in ornithology as they participate in research projects. Projects include observing differences in diversity between habitat types, censusing owls, erecting and monitoring nest boxes, observing interactions within heron rookeries, and mapping Osprey/Eagle nests. This course will require extensive field work in a variety of situations including hiking, wading, canoeing, and boating. Prerequisites: introductory biology (BIO 130 and 140) or instructors approval. Aquatic and Wetland Plants (ZOOL 306/506 3 semester hours) Meeting time:June 2-July 2 (Tues., Thurs., alternate Frid., Full day) Instructor: Dr. Ron Jones (Eastern Kentucky University) e-mail:ron.jo...@eku.edu Aquatic and Wetland plants is a field-oriented course designed to introduce students to the biology, ecology, and taxonomy of aquatic and wetland plants, with an emphasis on sight recognition and identification of species using diagnostic keys. The course includes field trips to various aquatic and wetland habitats around the Reelfoot Lake area where students will collect plant material that will then be identified through the use of keys. Students will also learn how to dry and preserve plant specimens for the herbarium. Some brief coverage of aquatic and wetland plant adaptations and the biological classification of hydrophytes will be developed in lectures. As many private, state, and federal agencies are interested in hiring people with plant identification skills, this course may be of particular interest to students planning to pursue careers in wetland consulting or rare species biology, as well as in other areas of environmental biology or ecology. This course requires field work involving physical activities such as hiking, wading and canoeing. Prerequisites: introductory biology (BIO 130 and 140) or instructors approval.
[ECOLOG-L] Bioblitz (Philadelphia, PA area) - chiropterologists and entomologists wanted!
My name Heather Kostick, and I am a Masters of Environmental Studies candidate at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA. I am planning to conduct a bioblitz at the Willistown Conservation Trust, Willistown, PA (it’s about 40-60 minutes from Philadelphia, PA). A bioblitz is a 24-hour intense surveillance period of an area with the purpose of getting a snapshot of the area’s ecosystem and biodiversity. I am specifically seeking volunteers that have a specialist background in the following fields: bats, fungi, and insects. The bioblitz will occur June 5 (at night: insects, owls, bats, mammals, amphibians, reptiles), and June 6 (during the day: plants, birds, reptiles, insects, aquatic life). Depending on background and experience, volunteers may be asked to lead/oversee a team of 5-8 students/volunteers. Those who specialize in birds, mammals, plants, owls, amphibians, and reptiles are also encouraged to contact Heather. If you are interested or have students who may be interested, please have them email Heather at upennbiobl...@gmail.com with the subject title bioblitz - [specialization]. Note: I am conducting this bioblitz as part of my Masters thesis. I am conducting this bioblitz along with Lisa Kiziuk, University of Pennsylvania lecturer and Willistown Conservation Trust Bird Conservation Program Director.
[ECOLOG-L] Several Wildlife Internship Opportunities in South Florida
The Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation at the University of Florida Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center is seeking an enthusiastic individual to assist with projects related to research and monitoring of native and invasive reptiles in South Florida. Intern will be expected to work 40 hours a week, including some nights, for a period of three months. Additional descriptions of ongoing research can be found: http://crocdoc.ifas.ufl.edu/ *Duties * Intern will work with scientists and managers from University of Florida as well as state and federal agencies. Primary duties include radio telemetry, live trapping, and camera trapping for Argentine Black White Tegus, as well as herpetofaunal surveys (75%) and necropsy of select specimens (25%). This opportunity will provide necessary training and exposure to arduous conditions of southern Florida and hands-on experience with native and invasive exotic reptiles. Additional duties include data entry and other tasks as assigned. Depending on availability, intern may have occasional opportunities to participate in other research projects. *Qualifications* - Possess or pursuing degree in ecology, biology, wildlife, environmental science, or related field - Maintain work quality and positive attitude in challenging, muddy, rocky, remote settings in hot and humid weather with biting insects, alligators, and venomous snakes - Experience regularly hiking long distances in heat - Excellent communication skills and accurate data recording are essential - Ability to work independently and with others in a fast-paced environment - Possession or ability to obtain a valid Florida’s driver’s license - Experience navigating off-trail with aid of GPS and compass - Working knowledge of South Florida ecosystems and wildlife, experience operating vehicles with 4WD and manual transmissions, and first aid/CPR training is helpful but not required *Salary*: $200/week. Shared housing available. *Start date*: As soon as ideal candidate is identified and available. Please indicate season and year of interest/availability in subject line when applying. *To Apply*: Qualified and interested applicants should send letter of interest, resume or CV, and contact information for two references to Mike Rochford at crocdoc_j...@hotmail.com. Please include Biological Intern in the subject heading with dates you are interested in working. Application deadline is March 31, 2015. *Other available internships can be viewed at the CrocDocs website http://crocdoc.ifas.ufl.edu/jobs/. Check out our facebook page https://www.facebook.com/TheCrocDocs for updates from the field and other opportunities.* -- Michiko Squires University of Florida - FLREC 3205 College Ave Davie, Florida 33314 (954) 577-6304
[ECOLOG-L] Grad position (PhD/Masters): Modelling landscape connectivity for caribou in Canada
A position is available for a PhD or Masters student interested in modelling landscape connectivity in forested environments. Boreal woodland caribou are a species-at-risk in Canada, and provincial jurisdictions are faced with the challenging task of planning for this species while maintaining the industrial, recreational and conservation values of the boreal forest landscape. Network models describing the arrangement and connectivity of habitat for caribou can be powerful tools to achieve these ends: they can help us examine the amount, the quality and the connectivity of habitat in an integrated framework, and enable us to predict how proposed changes to land use might impact populations. We are seeking a student to join our landscape ecology and informatics lab (http://ecologics.ucalgary.ca) at the Faculty of Environmental Design, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada to take the lead on a caribou landscape connectivity project. In this role, you will consult with wildlife managers, analyze spatial data, and build network models of habitat. A major goal of this work will be the development of tools that are helpful for decision-support. In addition to making applied contributions in landscape ecology, your task will also be a design exercise with the goal of creating and evaluating tools that are practical, accessible and informative for end users in wildlife management and landscape planning. Applicants from any educational background are welcome, although those with degrees in ecology or geography are particularly encouraged. Please email in PDF: (1) a CV; (2) a short cover letter in which you mention your GPA, discuss your research goals, and explain how these intersect with landscape connectivity research; (3) the names and contact information for two academic referees; and (4) a sample of your best written work. A good grasp of GIS and the R programming language will be essential to succeed in this task. In your application please discuss your experience using these software packages. If you do not have relevant experience, do not be discouraged. Rather, demonstrate convincingly that you are likely to be successful at learning how to use these tools, given appropriate training opportunities. Don't hesitate to contact Dr. Paul Galpern, Faculty of Environmental Design, University of Calgary for more information. Please submit your application to him by email on or before April 15th, 2015 (pgalp...@ucalgary.ca). Stipend support is available.
[ECOLOG-L] Job: Early Stage Researcher (PhD) in Economic and Social Evaluation of Fish Reintroductions
A three–year Early Stage Researcher (ESR), preferably a doctoral (PhD) student, in the field of “Economic and Social Value of Conservation of Endangered Migratory Fishes” is sought within a newly funded EU Marie Sk#322;odowska-Curie Initial Training Network (ITN) entitled IMPRESS. IMPRESS (Improved production strategies for endangered freshwater species, www.impress-itn.eu) is coordinated by the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NBUM) in Oslo, Norway, and involves 15 ESRs hosted by 9 different organizations in Europe. The candidate sought here will join the Fisheries Research group of Prof. Dr. Robert Arlinghaus in the Department of Biology and Ecology of Fishes at the Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries in Berlin, Germany and shall be recruited by June, 1, 2015. More details on the position and how to apply can be found here: http://www.igb-berlin.de/stellenangebote-details/items/515.html Please distribute this job to potential candidates. Many thanks in advance Robert Arlinghaus Prof. Dr. Robert Arlinghaus Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries Department of Biology and Ecology of Fishes Müggelseedamm 310 12587 Berlin and Laboratory for Integrative Fisheries Management Faculty of Life Sciences Albrecht-Daniel-Thaer-Institute of Agriculture and Horticulture Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin For running projects: www.besatz-fisch.de www.b-types.igb-berlin.de www.bioenv.gu.se/english/salmoinvade For further information and publication download: www.agrar.hu-berlin.de/fakultaet/departments/dntw/jp_bfm/publ_html www.besatz-fisch.de www.researchgate.net/profile/Robert_Arlinghaus?ev=hdr_xprf www.besatz-fisch.de/adaptfish News on twitter: https://twitter.com/RArlinghausFish
[ECOLOG-L] Funding Opportunity, call for research proposals with CTFS-ForestGEO
The Center for Tropical Forest Science - Forest Global Earth Observatories Research Grants Program is open for 2015! The Smithsonian Institution's Center for Tropical Forest Science - Forest Global Earth Observatories (CTFS-ForestGEO; forestgeo.si.eduhttp://forestgeo.si.edu) is a global network of forest plots and scientists dedicated to the study of temperate and tropical forest dynamics. The multi-institutional network is comprised of more than 60 forest research plots around the world, encompassing data on over 6 million trees. Deadline: 5PM EDT, Monday, June 15, 2015 Overview Eligibility: The CTFS - ForestGEO Research Grants Program funds research projects associated with the CTFS-ForestGEO network of Forest Dynamics Plotshttp://www.ctfs.si.edu/plots/. The program is intended to provide opportunities for senior researchers, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students to use existing Forest Dynamics Plots and conduct research in collaboration with scientists associated with these plots (e.g., plot principal investigatorshttp://www.ctfs.si.edu/plots/pi/). Projects can be field-oriented, herbarium- or laboratory-based, or analytical, and either basic or applied in nature. Anyone working directly in a CTFS-ForestGEO forest plot, analyzing plot data, or generating complementary data that strengthens CTFS-ForestGEO programs is eligible to apply. Priority will be given to early-career researchers and researchers with less access to other institutional funds. In rare cases, highly advanced undergraduate students will be considered. Social scientists and natural scientists are both encouraged to apply. Applicants of all nationalities are encouraged to apply. Budget Information: Proposed research projects can range from ~$2,000-$15,000 USD. More Information and Submission Instructions: For detailed information about the Research Grants Program and instructions about how to apply, visit the CTFS-ForestGEO website at www.forestgeo.si.edu/group/Grants+%26+Training/Grants+Programhttp://www.forestgeo.si.edu/group/Grants+%26+Training/Grants+Program. Questions?: Contact forest...@si.edumailto:forest...@si.edu.
[ECOLOG-L] anyone familiar with the journal Nature and Culture?
Anyone know have a general perception or experience with the journal, Nature and Culture? -- Malcolm L. McCallum, PHD, REP Environmental Studies Program Green Mountain College Poultney, Vermont “Nothing is more priceless and worthy of preservation than the rich array of animal life with which our country has been blessed. It is a many-faceted treasure, of value to scholars, scientists, and nature lovers alike, and it forms a vital part of the heritage we all share as Americans.” -President Richard Nixon upon signing the Endangered Species Act of 1973 into law. Peer pressure is designed to contain anyone with a sense of drive - Allan Nation 1880's: There's lots of good fish in the sea W.S. Gilbert 1990's: Many fish stocks depleted due to overfishing, habitat loss, and pollution. 2000: Marine reserves, ecosystem restoration, and pollution reduction MAY help restore populations. 2022: Soylent Green is People! The Seven Blunders of the World (Mohandas Gandhi) Wealth w/o work Pleasure w/o conscience Knowledge w/o character Commerce w/o morality Science w/o humanity Worship w/o sacrifice Politics w/o principle Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message.
