[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Assistantship - Plant Invasions in the Mojave Desert
We seek a highly motivated graduate student to examine the interactions among native and invasive plant species in the Mojave Desert. Invasive annual species, including red brome (Bromus rubens), Mediteranean grass (Schismus barbatos), and Russian thistle (Salsola spp.) have become prevalent in the Mojave Desert. This has severe consequences for native wildlife habitat, including the desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii), as well as rare plant species (ex. white-margined penstemon - Penstemon albomarginatus). The Bureau of Land Management is interested in investigating the effects of rehabilitation treatments (herbicide, seeding, etc.) on native and rare plant species, as well as desert tortoise habitat. Research questions will focus on plant-plant, plant-soil, and plant-animal interactions. Research will be in conjunction with the Las Vegas office of the Bureau of Land Management. Funding: The competitive stipend for the research assistantship is $19,200 per year for four years, which includes a tuition and fee waiver. PhD candidates are preferred although MS students may be considered. Qualifications: • BS degree in biology, ecology, or related field • Field experience and coursework in plant and soil ecology • Desire to interact with land managers and help improve land management decisions • Previous research experience with good experimental and field skills • Strong verbal and written communication skills • Evidence of statistical knowledge, laboratory analytic skills, and ability to publish research results in refereed journals is highly desired. Personal Qualifications: The candidate should be self-motivated, focused, and able to work independently and as part of a team. You should be capable of driving to remote sites on 4WD roads, hiking several kilometers, withstanding harsh field conditions, and willing to camp in primitive areas with no facilities. Fieldwork will be located outside of Las Vegas, NV. How to Apply: Please email the following to Beth Newingham at beth.newing...@ars.usda.gov: (1) your resume or CV (including GRE scores and percentiles); (2) a letter of interest, including research interests, professional goals and prior experience, and (3) contact information for three references. Further questions can be directed to Dr. Newingham at beth.newing...@ars.usda.gov. The student would be a UNR student although housed with the USDA Agricultural Research Service on campus. Information about the University of Nevada, Reno’s graduate programs in the Natural Resources and Environmental Science department can be found at https://www.unr.edu/nres/graduate-degrees. Information about the Newingham Lab can be found at http://newinghamlab.weebly.com. Applications will be considered starting immediately and will continue until the position is filled. The preferred start date is November or December 2018 as a technician to assure sampling for the spring and summer of 2019. Student status may start when appropriate.
[ECOLOG-L] Seeking technicians for post-fire restoration research in Great Basin
Dr. Newingham’s Aridland Ecology Lab is seeking research technicians to assist with the collection and management of field data related to fire, climate change, and restoration/rehabilitation studies in the Great Basin and surrounding aridland ecosystems. This is a great opportunity to learn about natural resource issues and land management in collaboration with universities, state, and federal agencies. Studies include: • Effects of climate change on plant invasions and reestablishing native plants after fire. • Evaluating how grazing after fire affects plant recovery and rehabilitation. • Effects of post-fire rehabilitation treatments on plants, biological soil crust, and soil properties. • Quantifying post-fire wind erosion and interactions with post-fire rehabilitation treatments. Job duties include: • Collecting plant and soil data in the field, sample organization, and sample processing in the lab. • Data entry and management in Excel. • Use of a GPS and ArcGIS. • Willingness to travel to remote field sites and camp in primitive settings. • Willingness and ability to work in varied field conditions that may involve: 1) off-road hiking up and down hills, 2) carrying loads up to 30 lbs, and 3) withstanding periods of inclement weather during all seasons. • Working with graduate students and other technicians in the lab. • Interacting with scientists and land managers from state and federal agencies, such as the US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Nevada Department of Wildlife, UNR, and other universities. Minimum qualifications: • Education: Pursuing or attained a BS degree in biology, ecology, natural resources, geology, hydrology, or closely related field. • Ability to perform repetitive tasks while maintaining accuracy and good organizational skills. • Demonstrated ability to work independently and with a group. • Strong oral and written communication skills. Preferred qualifications: • Plant identification, soil sampling and processing, proficiency in Excel and with GPS units. Please send a resume, unofficial transcript, a letter detailing your skills, experience, and/or interest, as well as contact information for three references to Beth Newingham at beth.newing...@ars.usda.gov. Full-time employment May – August with possible full or part- time work into fall and beyond pending funding. Review of applications will begin April 15, 2018 and continue until positions are filled.
[ECOLOG-L] Full-time Technician Fire, Climate, and Restoration Ecology
The Newingham Aridland Ecology Lab is seeking a full-time technician to assist in the collection, management, and analysis of field and laboratory data related to fire, climate change, and restoration studies in the Great Basin and surrounding ecosystems. Studies include examining the effects of climate change and grazing on plant invasions and post-fire-restoration; the effects of post-fire restoration on plant invasions, plant community trajectories, fire regimes, and soil properties; and the long-term recovery of ecosystems to wildfire. This position will work with graduate students and technicians in our research group, as well as interact with scientists and land managers from various universities, state and federal agencies, and NGOs. The individual will need a thorough understanding of research plot establishment, soil and vegetation field sampling techniques, general laboratory techniques, maintaining data loggers and other field equipment, use of GPS and GIS, data handling and statistical analysis, and manuscript writing. Additionally, the individual must have prior supervisory experience, including leading field crews. The incumbent must also be willing to travel to remote field sites and camp in primitive settings sometimes for extended periods. Responsibilities Field Work: The candidate will assist in the establishment of study sites, collect field data, and supervise and coordinate field crews. Field data collection will require working at diverse and remote locations based out of Reno, NV. This will require camping or staying in hotels overnight possibly for extended periods. Data collection may include soil, plant and insect sampling, as well as maintaining data loggers and electronic equipment. Use of a GPS is necessary for field orientation and data collection. Laboratory Work: The candidate will process soil, plant, and insect samples in preparation for further laboratory analysis. Lab work requires adherence to strict safety and research protocols for sample preparation and careful identification of study samples. This includes organizing, labeling, and sending out samples to other labs for analysis. The candidate will also be responsible for using GIS for field preparation and data analysis. Data Analysis and Writing: Enter data into electronic spreadsheets, data management and quality control, statistical analysis, and manuscript and report writing. Minimum Qualifications Education: BS degree in biology, ecology, natural resources, or closely related field. MS degree is preferrred. At least four years of field ecology research experience. Previous experience with soil, plant, and/or insect sampling and sample analysis. Experience with field and laboratory safety protocol and procedures, including basic analytical chemistry skills. Experience with data management, graphing, and statistical analysis. Ability to use Excel, as well as other graphing and statistical software packages. Experience using GPS and GIS. Willingness and ability to camp and work in varied field conditions possibly for extended periods that may involve: 1) off-road hiking up and down hills, 2) carrying loads up to 30 lbs, and 3) withstanding periods of inclement weather during all seasons. Possess valid drivers license. Ability to operate 4WD vehicles. Ability to perform repetitive tasks while maintaining accuracy and good organizational skills. Demonstrated ability to work independently and with a group. Strong oral and written communication skills. Supervisory experience, including leading field crews. Employment and Application Information The candidate will work with the USDA Agricultural Research Service and University of Nevada, Reno. The position is based in Reno, NV, with a preferred start date in November or December 2015. Salary is commensurate with experience. Please send a resume, list of four references, unofficial transcript, and a letter detailing your skills, experience, and/or interest to Dr. Beth Newingham at beth.newing...@ars.usda.gov. Review of applications will commence October 12, 2015 and remain open until the position is filled. Please contact Dr. Newingham with any questions.
[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Teaching Assistantships in Fire Ecology University of Idaho
We are seeking highly motivated students to pursue a Ph.D. or M.S. in Natural Resources at the Department of Forest, Rangeland and Fire Sciences at the University of Idaho. The University of Idaho is currently developing a graduate online degree with a focus in fire science and natural resources. Teaching assistantships are available for graduate students to assist with instruction of both online and face-to-face courses. Applicants should have a desire to teach, interest in fire and natural resource ecology research, quantitative skills, excellent writing skills, and the ability to communicate effectively. All assistantships will have duration of two years for MS and three years for PhD, starting in August 2014 or January 2015. All assistantships include a stipend of $17,500 amp;#8208; $21,000 per annum and a waiver of out-of-state tuition. The university is an AA/EEO employer and encourages applications from women and minorities. For more information, contact Eva Strand (e...@uidaho.edu) or Penny Morgan (pmor...@uidaho.edu). To apply, please email Eva Strand (e...@uidaho.edu) a cover letter describing your teaching and research interests, goals and relevant experience, a complete CV, college transcripts, GRE scores and contact information of three referees. Review of applications will begin immediately, and the positions will remain open until a suitable candidate is found. After selection, the successful candidate will apply to be admitted to the College of Graduate Studies of the University of Idaho; detailed information about the application procedure is available online at www.uidaho.edu/graduateadmissions.
[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantships in Fire Ecology University of Idaho
We are seeking two highly motivated students to pursue a Ph.D. or M.S. in Natural Resources at the Department of Forest, Rangeland and Fire Sciences at the University of Idaho with a focus in fire ecology. Two research assistantships are available on a Joint Fire Science funded project. The project focuses on how vegetation recovery and fuel conditions in past fires influence fuels and future fire management in five western U.S. ecosystems. We collaborate with the Rocky Mountain Research Station of the US Forest Service. We will re-measure existing plots and additional plots to fill landscape-level stratifications at 15 fires that burned in five different ecosystems in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, California, South Dakota, Colorado, and Alaska. Applicants should have spatial analysis skills, quantitative skills, fieldwork experience, and an interest in fire ecology. Strong writing skills, the ability to communicate effectively, and the desire to work in a team are essential. All assistantships will have duration of two years for MS and three years for PhD, starting in August 2014 or January 2015. All assistantships include a stipend of $17,500 amp;#8208; $21,000 per annum and a waiver of out-of-state tuition. The university is an AA/EEO employer and encourages applications from women and minorities. For more information, contact Eva Strand (e...@uidaho.edu), Beth Newingham (b...@uidaho.edu), or Penny Morgan (pmor...@uidaho.edu). To apply, please email Eva Strand (e...@uidaho.edu) a cover letter describing your research interests, goals and relevant experience, a complete CV, college transcripts, GRE scores and contact information of three referees. Review of applications will begin immediately, and the positions will remain open until a suitable candidate is found. After selection, the successful candidate will apply to be admitted to the College of Graduate Studies of the University of Idaho; detailed information about the application procedure is available online at www.uidaho.edu/graduateadmissions.
[ECOLOG-L] MS or PhD in Ecosystem Resiliency to Fire
MS or PhD Position - Ecosystem Resiliency to Fire University of Idaho We seek a highly motivated MS or PhD student to examine ecosystem recovery after extreme wildland fire in the western United States. While post-fire recovery is often measured a few years after fire, little is known about long-term ecosystem responses and what the various ecosystem trajectories are after extreme events. This graduate position will focus on quantifying ecosystem recovery and trajectories based on field soil and vegetation indicators and may include shrubland, grassland and forest ecosystems. Research questions are flexible and may include topics related to community ecology, ecosystem ecology, restoration, and climate change. The candidate will work in an interdisciplinary team in an effort to link concepts on ecosystem and human resiliency. While the student will have a disciplinary focus, collaborations will include remote sensing and social scientists. The University of Idaho is strong in interdisciplinary endeavors and provides numerous opportunities for the student to interact with others in more formal interdisciplinary programs (i.e. NSF-IGERT). We seek candidates with a high degree of analytical, written, verbal, and collaborative skills. Evidence of the ability to publish research results in refereed journals is highly desired. Applicants should have a degree in biology, ecology, soil science, natural resources, environmental sciences or a related field. The assistantship includes a stipend for 3 years plus instate-fees and insurance. We prefer a start date in April or May 2012 to facilitate a field season this summer. Potential students should contact Dr. Beth Newingham (b...@uidaho.edu) for more information and may learn more about the Newingham Ecology Lab at http://www.webpages.uidaho.edu/~beth. Information about the University of Idahos College of Natural Resources can be found at www.cnr.uidaho.edu. Please send the following to Dr. Newingham: 1) a letter of interest and qualifications, 2) resume or curriculum vitae, 3) names, emails, and phone numbers of three references, 4) academic transcripts, and 5) GRE scores. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until filled.
[ECOLOG-L] PhD Opportunities in Coupled Earth, Life and Social Sciences
NOTE: Dr. Newingham will be at ESA in Austin Monday-Thursday. Please contact her via e-mail to set up a meeting time for either position. An interdisciplinary team at the University of Idaho is inviting applications for two funded PhD student positions to work collaboratively on a NASA research project focusing on quantifying biophysical and human recovery to extreme wildland fires at community and regional scales in the US northern Rockies. Each student will focus on one of the following areas: 1) remote sensing of historical and current fires (led by Dr. Alistair Smith); and 2) field-scale analyses of soil and vegetation recovery after fire (led by Dr. Beth Newingham). Although students will have a disciplinary focus, they will be required to work within a larger collaborative group that includes students evaluating the social perceptions following fires. We seek candidates with a high degree of analytical, written, verbal, and collaborative skills. Evidence of the ability to publish research results in refereed journals is highly desired. Applicants should ideally have a degree in natural resources, geography, biology, environmental sciences or a related field. The assistantships include a stipend for 3 years starting at $20,000 /year + instate- fees and insurance. We anticipate a start date of January 1, 2012, which is negotiable. Applications must include 1) a letter of interest and qualifications, 2) resume or curriculum vitae, 3) names, emails, and phone numbers of three references, 4) academic transcripts, and 5) GRE scores. Applications may be e-mailed to the addresses below or via mail to: Alistair Smith or Beth Newingham, Department of Forest Ecology and Biogeosciences, University of Idaho, PO Box 441133, Moscow, ID 83844-1133. Students must also apply to the University of Idaho College of Graduate Studies (see www.grad.uidaho.edu). Please direct inquiries to alist...@uidaho.edu and/or b...@uidaho.edu. Information about the University of Idahos College of Natural Resources can be found at www.cnr.uidaho.edu. Review of applications will begin November 1, 2011 and will continue until filled; earlier applications are highly encouraged.
[ECOLOG-L] Graduate seminar formats
I'm looking for creative and innovative ways to teach a graduate discussion seminar this spring. They can be group activities or ways for individual students to lead the discussion. The more creative the better! Beth Beth A. Newingham, Assistant Professor Forest Ecology and Biogeosciences College of Natural Resources University of Idaho b...@uidaho.edu
[ECOLOG-L] Technician for Wireless Sensor Network in Frank Church Wilderness
Please note we are extending the deadline until early January. WIRELESS SENSOR NETWORK TECHNICIAN. The candidate will be responsible for technical support in the design, installation, and testing of a large wireless sensor mesh network near the Taylor Wilderness Research Station in central Idaho. This is a very remote location in the center of the Frank Church River of No Return wilderness area. The candidate will install, operate, test, and maintain electronic sensors and electrical power for those sensors. The candidate will build weatherproof containers for sensors and communications and control electronics. The candidate will conduct communication and testing protocols for the sensors and the wireless mesh network. The position requires a basic understanding of digital and analog sensor operation, wireless mesh communication technology, computer networking and communication protocols, elementary electrical power (battery and grid), and electrical construction methods. The incumbent must be willing to travel to remote field sites, fly in small aircraft, hike in steep rugged terrain while carrying heavy loads, and camp in primitive settings. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Education/Experience: Requires three years of college including electronics or computer based courses in specified area of discipline plus two years or more of related work experience. Additional work experience may be substituted for college on a year-for-year basis. Demonstrated ability to: perform complex and technical tasks related to research area. Good interpersonal and communication skills. Some positions may be required to work with toxic, volatile and corrosive chemicals or carcinogenic substances; and/or be required to work in adverse environmental conditions; and/or carry or lift heavy materials. Must: Applicants who are selected as final possible candidates must be able to pass a background check and show proof of eligibility to be employed in the United States. Specific to the position: Experience: At least one year of experience in the field or laboratory on related projects involving; a) sensor deployment and testing, or b) data collection and transmission, c) wireless mesh networks, d) power generation, power storage, and application of electric energy by alternative/renewable methods. Must: Be able to work in adverse environmental conditions; carry lift heavy materials; and fly in small aircraft Must: Possess valid drivers license, pass a driving record check, and be able to drive UI vehicles. ADDITIONAL DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS: Training, coursework or experience as an electronic or computer technician. Previous experience working in remote locations. Demonstrated ability using Excel or other spreadsheet software. Strong oral and written communication skills. Experience with field and laboratory safety protocol and procedures. Willingness and ability to travel to remote field sites for weeks at a time. Ability to perform repetitive tasks while maintaining accuracy and good organizational skills to plan field campaigns and maintain financial records. Demonstrated ability to work independently and with an interdisciplinary group. To apply: https://www.sites.uidaho.edu/AppTrack/Agency/Applicant/ViewAnnouncement.asp? announcement_no=13504038161 For more information about the position contact: Kathleen Kavanagh ka...@uidaho.edu
[ECOLOG-L] Interdisciplinary PhD assistantships in social and ecological resiliency
Interdisciplinary PhD Research Fellowships in Social and Ecological Resilience of the Southern Idaho Sagebrush Steppe Ecosystem Up to five Ph.D. research fellowships are available to join a collaborative, interdisciplinary team focusing on the social an ecological resilience of the sagebrush steppe ecosystem of the Columbia Plateau and northern Great Basin in southern Idaho. This region is a mosaic of public lands, private ranches, agricultural parcels, and areas experiencing rapid urban and recreational development. The social and ecological components, structures and processes within this ecosystem are rapidly changing as a result of population growth, economic opportunities, policy changes, land conversion, climate change, invasive species and shifts in disturbance regimes. To capture the range of variation in the system and determine thresholds for resilience, the student and faculty team will evaluate the characteristics and impacts of these drivers in study areas across a climate gradient that include minimally altered to highly impacted rangelands. With funding from the National Science Foundations Integrative Graduate Education and Research Traineeship program (IGERT), the students will pursue interlinked dissertation projects important for the overall theme, and work together to identify and address interdisciplinary issues critical for development of effective planning and policy for future resilience of this threatened system. The team will interact with members of five other IGERT-sponsored student/faculty teams pursuing similar objectives in other ecosystems in the Pacific Northwest and Costa Rica. This opportunity is especially appropriate for students seeking to develop skills for interdisciplinary collaboration and team- based research that addresses complex problems involving interacting human and natural systems. PhD Assistantship in Plant Ecology We seek a highly motivated PhD student to participate in a project focusing on plant community responses to environmental changes in sagebrush ecosystems, which include fire, climate, invasive species, and land conversion. The student will identify plant community factors and/or processes affecting ecosystem resiliency in response to changing disturbance regimes. Topics may include plant community composition, habitat types, and species interactions that identify a gradient of resiliency. Species interactions beyond plant-plant interactions may further affect resiliency and include plant-insect, animal and microbial interactions. Many opportunities exist to integrate these research topics with other sagebrush steppe team members focused on biogeochemical cycling, ecohydrology, wildlife ecology, and rural social systems across a wide range of spatial and temporal scales. Contact Beth Newingham (b...@uidaho.edu), Lee Vierling (l...@uidaho.edu) and Dave Tank (dt...@uidaho.edu) for more information. PhD Assistantship in Ecohydrology We seek a highly motivated PhD student to participate in a project focusing on the interactions between ecological and hydrological patterns and processes in sagebrush ecosystems undergoing changing disturbance regimes and anthropogenic influences, including climate change, invasive species, and land conversion. Resiliency to these drivers of change can be assessed by examining changes in water status and flux in the soil and plant environment, which may be mediated by soil-plant-microbial interactions. The sagebrush steppe team seeks a student interested in topics such as 1) effects of changing climate regimes (snow to rain-dominated) and/or 2) the effects of plant community structure changes on water dynamics and feedbacks on vegetation. These spatiotemporal dynamics include changes in snow redistribution, interception, evaporation, transpiration, sublimation, and soil water content and fluxes. Many opportunities exist to integrate these research topics with other sagebrush steppe team members focused on biogeochemical cycling, plant ecology, wildlife ecology, and rural social systems across a wide range of spatial and temporal scales. Contact Beth Newingham (b...@uidaho.edu), Tim Link (tl...@uidaho.edu), and Lee Vierling (l...@uidaho.edu) for more information. PhD Assistantship in Biogeochemical Cycling We seek a highly motivated PhD student to participate in a project focusing on biogeochemical responses to changes in the structure and function of sagebrush ecosystems, resulting from urban sprawl, climate change, invasive species and shifts in disturbance regimes. Quantifying changes in biogeochemical cycling is fundamental to understanding the resilience of sagebrush ecosystems as they respond to these drivers of change across spatial and temporal scales. We seek a student with keen interest in studying biogeochemical pools and fluxes of C, N and/or other nutrients in the context of developing indices
[ECOLOG-L] Palouse Team - Interdisciplinary PhD Research Fellowships in Social and Ecological Resilience of Palouse Prairie
Palouse Team PhD Assistantship Announcements Interdisciplinary PhD Research Assistantships in Conservation Biology, Sustainable Production and Social-Ecological Resilience of the Palouse Region Ecosystem Up to five Ph.D. research assistantships are available to join a collaborative, crossdisciplinary team working on aspects of conservation of the endangered Palouse Prairie ecosystem in the context of bioregional planning and sustainable agriculture in southeastern Washington State and Northern Idaho. Students will work with mentors on linked dissertation projects to address the biological, biogeochemical and socioeconomic aspects of this issue. With funding from the National Science Foundations Integrative Graduate Education and Research Traineeship program (IGERT), the individual fellows will pursue disciplinary research important for the overall theme, and work together to identify and address interdisciplinary issues critical for development of effective planning and policy. The team will interact with members of five other IGERT-sponsored student/faculty teams pursuing similar objectives in other ecosystems in which sustainability and conservation in the face of changing conditions and pressures is desired. This opportunity is especially appropriate for students motivated to develop their skills for interdisciplinary collaboration to address complex problems involving interacting human and natural systems. PhD Assistantship in Soil Biogeochemistry. Seeking a highly motivated and qualified student to pursue the study of soil-plant relations and feedbacks in the endangered Palouse Prairie. The student will contribute to our understanding of resiliency in this unique ecosystem that is increasingly threatened by invasive weed species and urban sprawl. Research will focus on: 1) the importance of soil and site properties in determining the likelihood of invasion, and 2) the impact of invasive species on processes that control carbon storage and nutrient availability. In addition, the student will conduct collaborative research to examine interdisciplinary aspects of conservation of Palouse Prairie within a dynamic, human dominated landscape, with team members in fields such as entomology, conservation/restoration plant ecology, virus ecology, and rural and community economics. Contact Jodi Johnson-Maynard (jmayn...@uidaho.edu). PhD Assistantship in Entomology, Landscape Ecology and Landscape Genetics. Seeking a highly motivated and qualified student to pursue the study of populations of native insects linked to the ecological communities specific to the Palouse Prairie, now existing exclusively as widely distributed small remnants. Target populations will be key pollinators, specialist herbivores affecting predominant plant species and other indicator species. Research will focus on: 1) determining the genetic diversity and structure of arthropod populations, 2) examining how behavioral and ecological correlates of genetic structure influence level of landscape connectivity, and 3) assessing requirements for connectivity as part of conservation and restoration planning. In addition, the student will conduct collaborative research to examine interdisciplinary aspects of conservation of Palouse Prairie within a dynamic, human dominated landscape, with team members in fields such as soil science, conservation/restoration plant ecology, virus ecology, and rural and community economics. Contact Sanford D. Eigenbrode (sanfo...@uidaho.edu) and Lisette Waits (lwa...@uidaho.edu). PhD Assistantship in Conservation/Restoration Plant Ecology. Seeking a highly motivated and qualified student to pursue restoration ecology research within the Palouse Prairie and related canyon grassland systems of Northern Idaho. The field research will develop restoration methods appropriate for a range of plant communities at various stages of secondary succession to enhance resilience of those plant communities. The outcome of the research will include development of a decision tool to assist those actively involved in restoration. Research may include: 1) sequence of introduction of native species, 2) seeding techniques, 3) invasive plant management, 3) species selection for seed mixes that may incorporate native annuals, 4) feasibility of establishment of biological soil crust. In addition, the student will conduct collaborative research to examine interdisciplinary aspects of conservation of Palouse Prairie within a dynamic, human dominated landscape, with team members in fields such as soil science, entomology, virus ecology, and rural and community economics. Contact Tim Prather (tprat...@uidaho.edu). PhD Assistantship in Rural and Community Economics. Seeking a highly motivated and qualified student to pursue the study of rural community economics and social dynamics found in the Palouse Prairie region, including both patterns of decline and revitalization. The student will contribute to our
[ECOLOG-L] Graduate assistantship studying fire, nutrients and restoration of wildlife habitat
Graduate Assistantship to Study the Effects of Prescribed Fire as Habitat Restoration for Wildlife We seek a highly motivated graduate student to examine the effects of prescribed fire as habitat restoration for the northern Idaho ground squirrel. The northern Idaho ground squirrel is a threatened mammal endemic to Idaho, which prefers meadows or open forested habitat. Reductions in habitat, presumably from fire suppression, are likely contributors to the decline in northern Idaho ground squirrel populations. This study aims at understanding post-fire nutrient dynamics in soils and plants, which affect both quantity and quality of ground squirrel food. Investigating changes in plant community composition, as well as chemical composition of soils and plants, are important aspects of this study. Research will be conducted in conjunction with Idaho Fish and Game, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and the US Forest Service. Funding: The competitive stipend for the research assistantship is $16,744 per year for two years, which includes a tuition and fee waiver. Additional years of funding are possible; thus, students potentially interested in a PhD are encouraged to apply as funding may become available. Qualifications: BS degree in biology, ecology, or related field Familiarity with plant, soil, wildlife and/or fire ecology Interest in linking changes in soil and plant nutrient availability to wildlife habitat Desire to interact with land managers and help improve land management decisions Previous research experience and good experimental and field skills are desired Strong verbal and written communication skills Evidence of statistical knowledge, laboratory analytic skills, and ability to publish research results in refereed journals is highly desired. Personal Qualifications: The candidate should be self-motivated, focused, and able to work independently and as part of a team. You should be capable of driving to remote sites on 4WD roads, hiking several kilometers, withstanding harsh field conditions, and willing to camp in primitive areas. Field work will be located near beautiful McCall in central Idaho. How to Apply: Please email the following to Beth Newingham at b...@uidaho.edu: (1) your resume or CV (including GRE scores and percentiles); (2) a letter of interest, including research interests, professional goals and prior experience, and (3) contact information for three references. Students must also apply to the University of Idaho College of Graduate Studies (see www.grad.uidaho.edu). Further questions can be directed to Dr. Newingham at 208-885-6538 or via e-mail at b...@uidaho.edu. Additional information about the Newingham Ecology Lab can be found at www.webpages.uidaho.edu/~beth. Information about the University of Idahos College of Natural Resources can be found at www.cnr.uidaho.edu. Applications will be considered starting December 5, 2009 and will continue until the position is filled. The preferred start date is Spring 2010 to assure sampling for the spring and summer of 2010.
[ECOLOG-L] Research Technician in Post-fire Restoration
We are seeking a research technician to assist with the collection and management of field and laboratory data related to post-fire restoration studies in the Great Basin. Studies include examining the effects of fire and restoration practices on soils, plants, and insects in sagebrush ecosystems. This position will work with other scientists and land managers from the US Forest Service Rocky Mountain Research Station and the Bureau of Land Management. The individual will need an understanding of research plot establishment, soil, vegetation and/or insect field sampling techniques, general laboratory techniques, as well as data entry and management. The incumbent must be willing to travel to remote field sites and camp in primitive settings at multiple sites in the Great Basin. This position will be based out of Boise, ID. Employment dates are approximately June 15-November 15, 2009, but these dates are negotiable. Applications will be accepted on the University of Idaho Employment Services Web site until May 10, 2009. See http://tiny.cc/TmA7Y for the job posting and how to apply. For further information, please contact Dr. Beth Newingham at b...@uidaho.edu or 208-332-4402.
[ECOLOG-L] Graduate assistantship in post-fire restoration in Great Basin
We seek a highly motivated graduate student to participate in a project examining the effects of the post-fire restoration methods in sagebrush ecosystems. Public lands are often re-seeded using seed drills, particularly on Bureau of Land Management lands. Although agencies often monitor vegetation recovery, little is known about soil recovery and the impacts these drills have on soil properties. Thus, we seek a student to partake in a project looking at the effects of two seed drills and fire on soils (and related flora and fauna) in the sagebrush steppe. This experiment compares the effects of the well-known rangeland drill and a newer drill, the minimum-till drill. The student must be interested in taking basic soil physical and chemical measurements and is encouraged to develop further study, which may focus on questions related to plant, soil, microbial or animal responses to restoration techniques. Funding: The nationally competitive stipend for the research assistantship is $21,600 per year for two years, which includes a tuition waiver. Fees are not included, but the potential exists to compete for further funding, scholarships, and teaching assistantships. Additional years of funding are also possible through these avenues; thus, students potentially interested in a PhD are encouraged to apply as funding may become available. Qualifications: BS degree in biology, ecology, geology, or related field Familiarity with plant, soil and fire ecology Interest in community and ecosystem ecology in arid and semi-arid regions Desire to interact with land managers and have an interest in helping improve land management decisions Previous research experience and good experimental and field skills are desired Strong verbal and written communication skills Evidence of statistical knowledge, laboratory analytic skills, and ability to publish research results in refereed journals is highly desired. Personal Qualifications: The candidate should be self-motivated, focused, and able to work independently and as part of a team. You should be capable of driving to remote sites on 4WD roads, hiking several kilometers, withstanding harsh field conditions, and willing to camp in primitive areas. How to Apply: Please email the following to Beth Newingham at [EMAIL PROTECTED]: (1) your resume or CV (including GRE scores and percentiles); (2) a letter of interest, including research interests, professional goals and prior experience, and (3) contact information for three references. Further questions can be directed to Dr. Newingham at 208-332-4402 or via e-mail at [EMAIL PROTECTED] Information about the University of Idaho and College of Natural Resources can be found at www.cnr.uidaho.edu. Applications will be considered starting January 26, 2009 and will continue until the position is filled. The preferred start date is Summer 2009 but Fall 2009 is negotiable. NOTE: I will be at the Wildfires and Invasive Plants in American Deserts meeting December 9-11 in Reno, NV, and the American Geophysical Union meeting December 15-19 in San Francisco, CA. Interested students at these meetings should contact me by e-mail and we can set up a time to meet.
Re: [ECOLOG-L] GPS with datalogging capabilities
Fabrice- I just ordered some Trimble Junos based on strong recommendations. They cost $1250 per unit and they give you a $250 rebate when you send in an old GPS unit of any kind. I have not used the Junos yet, but they came highly recommended to me by the Twin Falls District of the Bureau of Land Management in southern Idaho. The Junos are nice because they fit in a shirt pocket, while being affordable. Beth
Part-time instructor needed
PART-TIME INSTRUCTOR The School of Life Sciences and the Division of Educational Outreach at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) invite applications for a part-time instructor to teach in the UNLV GS-0401 Educational Program (see http://ifpm.nifc.gov/faq/general.htm). Students are federal wildland fire management personnel from various states in the western US, who enroll in eight intensive two-week courses over a 14-month period. Courses include Fundamentals of Life Science, Principles of Modern Biology II, Principles of Ecology, Plant Ecology, Field Ecology, Conservation Biology, Biogeography, and Ecosystem Management. We seek a candidate to teach Biogeography sometime during April 2008. The two-week class will be held 9am-5pm, Monday through Friday. Due to the intensive nature of this course, a variety of course activities are encouraged, including lectures, labs and field trips. Candidates must hold a Masters degree in biology or a closely related discipline; a Ph.D. is preferred. Prior teaching experience is necessary and experience working with federal land agencies is preferred. Stipend for teaching the course is $5500. Applications should include a curriculum vitae, a statement of teaching philosophy relevant to the GS-0401 Educational Program, a brief statement summarizing the candidates research interests, and contact information for three professional references (at least two of which are previous supervisors). Send applications to Dr. Beth Newingham, School of Life Sciences, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV 89154-4004 or e-mail to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Review of application materials will begin on December 14, 2007 and continue until the position is filled. For further information, please contact Dr. Newingham. UNLV is an equal opportunity/Affirmative Action educator and employer committed to excellence through diversity.
Part-time instructor needed
PART-TIME INSTRUCTOR The School of Life Sciences and the Division of Educational Outreach at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) invite applications for a part-time instructor to teach in the UNLV GS-0401 Educational Program (see http://ifpm.nifc.gov/faq/general.htm). Students are federal wildland fire management personnel from various states in the western US, who enroll in eight intensive two-week courses over a 14-month period. Courses include Fundamentals of Life Science, Principles of Modern Biology II, Principles of Ecology, Plant Ecology, Field Ecology, Conservation Biology, Biogeography, and Ecosystem Management. We seek a candidate to teach Biogeography. The class will be held 9am-5pm, Monday through Friday, January 28-February 8, 2008. Due to the intensive nature of this course, a variety of course activities are encouraged, including lectures, labs and field trips. Candidates must hold a Ph.D. in biology or a closely related discipline; candidates with prior teaching experience and experience working with federal land agencies are preferred. Applications should include a curriculum vitae, a statement of teaching philosophy relevant to the GS-0401 Educational Program, a statement summarizing the candidates research interests, and contact information for three professional references (at least two of which are previous supervisors). Send applications to Dr. Beth Newingham, School of Life Sciences, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV 89154-4004 or e-mail to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Review of application materials will begin on November 5, 2007 and continue until the position is filled. For further information, please contact Dr. Newingham. UNLV is an equal opportunity/Affirmative Action educator and employer committed to excellence through diversity.
Part-time instructor needed
PART-TIME INSTRUCTOR The School of Life Sciences and the Division of Educational Outreach at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) invite applications for a part-time instructor to teach in the UNLV GS-0401 Educational Program (see http://ifpm.nifc.gov/fag/general.htm). Students are federal wildland fire management personnel from various states in the western US, who enroll in eight intensive two-week courses over a 14-month period. Courses include Fundamentals of Life Science, Principles of Modern Biology II, Principles of Ecology, Plant Ecology, Field Ecology, Conservation Biology, Biogeography, and Ecosystem Management. We seek a candidate to teach Principles of Ecology, which examines basic ecological principles at the individual, population, community and ecosystem levels. The class will be held 9am-5pm, Monday through Friday, April 30-May 11, 2007. Candidates must hold a Ph.D. in biology or a closely related discipline; candidates with prior teaching experience and experience working with federal land agencies are preferred. The salary is $5,500 for the course. Applications should include a curriculum vitae, a statement of teaching philosophy relevant to the GS-0401 Educational Program, a statement summarizing the candidates research interests, and contact information for three professional references (at least two of which are previous supervisors). Send applications to Dr. Beth Newingham, School of Life Sciences, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV 89154-4004 or e-mail to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Review of application materials will begin on March 5, 2007 and continue until the position is filled. For further information, please contact Dr. Newingham. UNLV is an equal opportunity/Affirmative Action educator and employer committed to excellence through diversity.
Part-time instructor needed
PART-TIME INSTRUCTOR The School of Life Sciences and the Division of Educational Outreach at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) invite applications for a part-time instructor to teach in the UNLV GS-0401 Educational Program (see http://ifpm.nifc.gov/fag/general.htm). Students are federal wildland fire management personnel from various states in the western US, who enroll in eight intensive two-week courses over a 14-month period. Courses include Fundamentals of Life Science, Principles of Modern Biology II, Principles of Ecology, Plant Ecology, Field Ecology, Conservation Biology, Biogeography, and Ecosystem Management. We seek a candidate to teach Principles of Modern Biology II, an introductory level course that examines whole organism biology in an evolutionary context. Topics include biodiversity, the structure, function and reproduction of prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms, and evolutionary and ecological patterns and processes. The class is scheduled to be held 9am-5pm, Monday through Friday, March 19-30, 2007. These dates, however, are subject to change depending on the availability of the instructor. Candidates must hold a Ph.D. in biology or a closely related discipline; candidates with prior teaching experience and experience working with federal land agencies are preferred. The salary is $6,000 for the course. Applications should include a curriculum vitae, a statement of teaching philosophy relevant to the GS-0401 Educational Program, a statement summarizing the candidates research interests, and contact information for three professional references (at least two of which are previous supervisors). Send applications to Dr. Beth Newingham, School of Life Sciences, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV 89154-4004 or e-mail to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Review of application materials will begin on February 9, 2007 and continue until the position is filled. For further information, please contact Dr. Newingham. UNLV is an equal opportunity/Affirmative Action educator and employer committed to excellence through diversity.
Part-time Instructor(s) Needed
PART-TIME INSTRUCTOR(S) The School of Life Sciences and the Division of Educational Outreach at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, invite applications for one or two part-time instructors. Instructors will teach in the UNLV 401 Program for Fire Managers (see http://ifpm.nifc.gov/faq/general.htm). Students from government agencies in wildland fire management take 8 intensive, two-week courses over a 15-month period and come from various states in the western US. Courses include Introductory Biology (2 courses), Principles of Ecology, Plant Ecology, Field Ecology, Conservation Biology, Ecosystem Management and Biogeography. We seek candidates to teach Ecosystem Management and/or Biogeography at UNLV. Ecosystem Management is held January 22-February 2, 2007, and Biogeography is held February 26-March 9, 2007; however, these course times may be switched if needed. Candidates must have a PhD; those with teaching experience, research experience in the western US, and interactions with federal land agencies are preferred. Experience in fire ecology or management is desired but not mandatory. Applications should include curriculum vitae, statement of teaching philosophy specific for the UNLV 401 Program, statement of research interests, and three letters of reference (at least two of which are previous supervisors). Send applications to Dr. Beth Newingham, School of Life Sciences, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV 89154-4004, or e-mail to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Review of applications will commence on November 14, 2006, and continue until the positions are filled. Please contact Dr. Newingham at [EMAIL PROTECTED] for further information. UNLV is an Equal Opportunity/ Affirmative Action educator and employer committed to excellence through diversity.
