[ECOLOG-L] Assistant Professor - Conservation Biology at Towson University
Assistant Professor in Conservation Biology Department of Biological Sciences The Jess and Mildred Fisher College of Science and Mathematics FCSM-N-2922 Position: The Jess and Mildred Fisher College of Science and Mathematics invites applications for a tenure-track, 10-month Assistant Professor position in conservation biology in the Department of Biological Sciences beginning August 2016. Qualifications: Ph.D. in biology, molecular biology, ecology, or a related field. Postdoctoral experience is preferred. ABD applicants considered, but appointment will be at the Instructor rank and all degree requirements must be completed by February 1, 2017. Strong foundation in ecology and evolutionary biology and be interested in combining field research with modern molecular techniques to address issues in conservation biology. Possess a strong commitment to excellence in teaching, show potential for a productive research/scholarly program and pursue extramural funding. Responsibilities: Faculty assigned an instructional workload of six (6) course units per academic year for the first year. Beginning the second year the workload reverts back to the standard instructional workload of seven to eight (7-8) course units. Teaching responsibilities will include courses in introductory biology, an advanced undergraduate course that investigates molecular approaches to conservation, and a graduate-level course in the area of specialty. Develop a research program that involves undergraduate and graduate students and complements existing research in the department. Department of Biological Sciences: Biological Sciences is a dynamic department with broad areas of research interest in cell and molecular biology, organismal biology and ecology, physiology, science education and a strongMaster's program. Faculty also actively contribute to two interdisciplinary programs: Molecular Biology, Biochemistry and Bioinformatics and Environmental Science and Studies. The Department provides a supportive and collaborative environment for research and teaching and is committed to excellent student education in synergy with internationally recognized research programs. Most of the faculty maintain active research programs and 64% have been awarded significant extramural funding support in the last five years. The Department of Biological Sciences supports molecular approaches to ecological, evolutionary and conservation biology research with next generation sequencing instrumentation for RNA and DNA analysis, and additional instrumentation for protein analysis. Towson University: Towson University (www.towson.edu) was founded in 1866, is recognized by U. S. News and World Reports as one of the top public universities in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions, is Baltimore's largest university, and is the largest public, comprehensive institution in the University of Maryland System. TU enrolls over 18,000 undergraduates and approaching 4,000 graduate students across six academic colleges (business, education, fine arts, health professions, liberal arts, science & mathematics), has over 865 full-time faculty, and offers more than 65 bachelor's, 45 master's, and 5 doctoral programs. Our centrally located campus sits on 330 rolling green acres and is 10 miles north of Baltimore, 45 miles north of Washington D.C., and 95 miles south of Philadelphia. Application Process: Review of applications begin October 23, 2015 and continue until position is filled. Applications, including curriculum vitae, separate statements of research and teaching interests, copies of recent publications, and the names and contact information of three references can be sent electronically to the address below. Vanessa Beauchamp vbeauch...@towson.edu Department of Biological Sciences Towson University 8000 York Road Towson, MD 21252 A Criminal Background Investigation is required for the hired candidate and the results may impact employment. Please be sure to visit http://www.towson.edu/odeolapplicantdata.asp to complete a voluntary on-line applicant data form. The information you provide will inform the university's affirmative action plan and is for statistical-related purposes only. The information will not be used for any other purpose. Please note that the search number for which you have applied is: FCSM-N-2922. Towson University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and has a strong institutional commitment to diversity. Women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] Lecturer, Biodiversity and Introductory Biology - Towson University
Lecturer, Biodiversity and Introductory Biology Department of Biological Sciences The Jess and Mildred Fisher College of Science and Mathematics FCSM-N-2881L Position: The Jess and Mildred Fisher College of Science and Mathematics invites applications for a non-renewable, non-tenure track, 10-month Lecturer in the Department of Biological Sciences beginning August, 2015. Qualifications: M.S. in Biology or a related field. Possess a strong commitment to excellence in teaching. Responsibilities: Teach four 3 credit courses per semester. Two introductory level courses that focus on ecology and evolution (BIOL 202), and phylogenetics and biodiversity (BIOL 208). BIOL 208 aims to introduce students to the processes that generate diversity and methods of studying that diversity, including phylogeny and the mechanisms by which living organisms solve similar functional problems. This course is not a simple survey of kingdoms of living organisms, although it includes a very general sketch of the conventional survey of living organisms. Towson University: Towson University (www.towson.edu) was founded in 1866, is recognized by U. S. News and World Reports as one of the top public universities in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions, is Baltimore’s largest university, and is the largest public, comprehensive institution in the University of Maryland System. TU enrolls over 18,000 undergraduates and approaching 4,000 graduate students across six academic colleges (business, education, fine arts, health professions, liberal arts, science mathematics), has over 865 full-time faculty, and offers more than 65 bachelor’s, 45 master’s, and 5 doctoral programs. Our centrally located campus sits on 330 rolling green acres and is 10 miles north of Baltimore, 45 miles north of Washington D.C., and 95 miles south of Philadelphia. Application Process: Review of applications begin immediately and continue until position is filled. Submit resume, a one-page statement on teaching philosophy and contact information for two references. Electronic submission of application materials in PDF or Word format is encouraged. Submit application material to Dr. Vanessa Beauchamp, Department of Biological Sciences, Towson University, 8000 York Road, Towson, MD 21252. E-mail vbeauch...@towson.edu. A Criminal Background Investigation is required for the hired candidate and the results may impact employment. Please be sure to visit http://www.towson.edu/odeo/applicantdata.asp to complete a voluntary on-line applicant data form. The information you provide will inform the university’s affirmative action plan and is for statistical-related purposes only. The information will not be used for any other purpose. Please note that the search number for which you have applied is: FCSM-N-2881L Towson University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and has a strong institutional commitment to diversity. Women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] minors and citizen science
Wavyleaf basketgrass is a relatively new (since 1996) invasive species in Maryland. We've developed a cell phone app for the public to help collect locations of wavyleaf basketgrass populations but are running into University level IRB issues with minors being allowed to use the app. This app is freely available to the general public (just search wavyleaf in your app store). Users register, fill out a brief survey and then submit points as they hike and find populations. We're going to change the registration process so that if a user self-identifies as being under 18 they skip the survey and their data will not be used in any published studies but they can still look for and submit points. Our IRB office insists on having a signed parental consent form for any minor that submits points as this is considered locational data. This creates a logistical nightmare for us. I'm not even sure how we would go about doing this. There are all sorts of other citizen science cell phone apps out there where participants under 18 can easily submit locational data about plants, birds, phenology, etc. I'm interested to hear how other groups have dealt with this issue. Any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks! -Vanessa
[ECOLOG-L] Wetland related educational resources
Im a member of the Education and Outreach Committee for the Society of Wetland Scientists and haven been tasked with helping to overhaul the academic section of our website. This section is intended to be a resource for both students and educators. The current web page is at http://www.sws.org/education/ Im looking to compile lists of schools that have wetland related programs at the undergraduate and/or graduate level; syllabi, lab activities, homework sets and sample exams for wetland related courses; and wetland related programs and resources aimed at the K-12 level. Im also interested in hearing about any other resources that would be helpful for students and educators at any level. Please email me off the list at vbeauch...@towson.edu. Ill post a compiled list of resources once I have them together. We have a tight deadline for this and I need any input by April 11. Thanks!
[ECOLOG-L] Lecturer:- Biodiversity and Introductory Biology
Lecturer:- Biodiversity and Introductory Biology Department of Biological Sciences Jess and Mildred Fisher College of Science Mathematics Applications are invited for a one-year, renewable, full-time lecturer position in the Department of Biological Sciences at Towson University starting fall 2013. Successful applicant must possess a strong commitment to excellence in teaching. Teaching responsibilities will include two introductory level courses that focus on ecology, evolution, phylogenetics and biodiversity (BIOL 202 and 208). BIOL 208 aims to introduce students to the processes that generate diversity and methods of studying that diversity, including phylogeny and the mechanisms by which living organisms solve similar functional problems. This course is not a simple survey of kingdoms of living organisms, although it includes a very general sketch of the conventional survey of living organisms. M.S. in appropriate field is required. Preference will be given to candidates with a Ph.D. and the ability to teach graduate level courses in molecular evolution and systematic biology. The successful applicant will teach 4 course units per semester (12 contact hours). Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Submit resume, a one-page statement on teaching philosophy and contact information for two references. Electronic submission of application materials in PDF or Word format is encouraged. Submit application material to: Dr. Susan Gresens, Dept. of Biological Sciences, Towson University, 8000 York Road, Towson, MD 21252 e-mail sgres...@towson.edu.
[ECOLOG-L] projection for fisheye lens
I have a Sigma 4.5mm 2.8 f/2.8 fisheye lens that I'm using to take hemispherical canopy photos. I intend to analyze the photographs in Gap Light Analyzer, but need to know the projection of the lens. The literature on the lens states that it has an equisolid angle projection, but that isn't an option on the menu. I've looked for other papers using this lens, but most don't include the program settings used. The ones that do state that projection information was obtained by the manufacturer or that they developed a custom projection. I emailed Sigma, but I don't think the person who replied understood what I was asking. Does anyone have projection information for this lens that I can use in GLA? Thanks in advance. I'll post a summary of replies to the list. - Vanessa Beauchamp Towson University
[ECOLOG-L] camera for canopy photos
I'm in the market for a setup to take and analyze hemispherical canopy photos. I’ve found two companies (Hemi-View from Dynamax and WinScanopy from Regent Instruments) with kits that include software, camera and all lenses, mounts and hardware but these are a bit out of my price range ($6K - 7K). It is possible to build something myself that will do the job for less? What cameras and lenses are good for this type of photography? How do I make sure the camera is totally level when taking pictures? What software do people like for photo analysis? Is it worth my time to build and configure my own system, or is a kit the way to go? The last posts to the list on this that I could find were in 2008. Please reply off list and I’ll post of summary of responses.
[ECOLOG-L] Master's Position available in plant ecology and science education
Student Opportunity Available in Plant Ecology and G6-12 Education. Department of Biological Sciences, Towson University, Towson, MD. In pursuit of an MS degree at Towson University, the successful candidate will undertake a floristic inventory of the newly acquired Towson University Field Station located in Monkton, MD. This 92 hectare parcel will serve as a long term ecological research site to investigate impacts of successional processes, herbivore pressure and climate change. Results from this study will serve as the foundation for future projects at this site. Additionally, for the first year of the project, the student will participate in the NSF G6-12 Fellowship Program and will contribute to a new project that is developing environmental science literacy frameworks and teaching resources for teachers and students in grades 6-12. The student will be advised by Dr. Sarah Haines (ESL Project PI) along with Dr. Vanessa Beauchamp and Dr. Roland Roberts. An ideal candidate for this position has a strong interest in science education, holds a B.S. in botany or ecology, is self motivated, works well independently, and has experience working in a field setting. The position will require long hours in the field under moderate conditions (often alone). Familiarity with Eastern North America flora and/or experience using taxonomic keys to identify plants is highly desirable. Prior experience with field research, plant sampling techniques, and data management are helpful but not required. The successful candidate will be supported for one year on a NSF G6-12 Fellowship as part of the Baltimore Ecosystem Study (BES) research and education community. The Fellowships are an integral part of the Environmental Science Literacy (ESL) Project funded by the National Science Foundation at four Long Term Ecological Research (LTER) sites around the nation. While supported by this fellowship, the student is expected to: • Spend 20 hours per week during the school year as a participant in the project. The school year schedule is flexible. • With a classroom teacher, develop classroom applications of ecological research being carried out during the project. • Join the ESL Project’s Research Team to participate in research into teacher and student thinking and learning. • Participate in professional development workshops during the summer and school year. • Receive on-going support from Project scientists and educators as they help 6-12 teachers implement new teaching approaches in their classrooms and schoolyards. • Participate in an annual symposium involving all participants in the project During this fellowship, the student will be supported by a stipend of $25,000 (with no tuition waiver). For the remainder of the project, the student will be supported by a teaching assistantship funded at $8,000 per year, plus a full tuition waiver, with an additional $3,000 per year available as summer support. With more than 21,000 students, Towson University is the second-largest public university in Maryland. As a metropolitan university, Towson combines research-based learning with practical application. Located in suburban Towson, eight miles north of Baltimore, our beautifully landscaped, 328-acre setting offers a pleasant environment for study and a diverse campus life, as well as easy access to a wealth of university and community resources. The start date for this position is July/September 2011 (tentative dates, some flexibility is possible). To apply for this position, send an application package that includes 1) your CV; 2) a letter of interest explaining how the experience will benefit you in your graduate career; 3) a description of your coursework background and relevant teaching experience (if any); 4) names and contact information for three references names and contact information for your academic advisor to Sarah Haines Towson University Department of Biological Sciences 8000 York Road Towson MD 21252 410-704-2926 FAX 410-704-2405 shai...@towson.edu Applications must be received by March 1, 2011.
[ECOLOG-L] Two Graduate Assistantships (MS) available in Plant Ecology at Towson University
Two Graduate Assistantships (MS) available in the Department of Biological Sciences at Towson University An ideal candidate for either of these positions has a strong interest in plant ecology or natural resource management, holds a B.S. in botany or ecology, is self motivated, works well independently, and has experience working in a field setting. Both positions will require long hours in the field under moderate conditions (often alone). Familiarity with Eastern North America flora and/or experience using taxonomic keys to identify plants is highly desirable. Prior experience with field research, plant sampling techniques, and data management are helpful but not required. Applications for either position must be received by March 1, 2011. Position #1 Successional Dynamics at the Middle Patuxent Environmental Area The Middle Patuxent Environmental Area (MPEA) is a 1021 acre undeveloped county park located in Howard County, MD. Principle activities at the MPEA include natural resource conservation, environmental education, research, and passive recreation. The area is managed using ecosystem management concepts to restore and protect the diversity of communities found in this region. A Master’s level research opportunity is available through the Biological Sciences Department at Towson University to assist the mission of the MPEA by re-sampling the herbaceous and shrub layers of long term monitoring plots within the park. Comparisons with older data sets (2001 and 2009) will allow for quantification of changes over decadal and shorter time scales to determine how management efforts need to be altered to facilitate the development of a diverse secondary successional hardwood forest community. The successful candidate will be co-advised by Dr. Vanessa Beauchamp and Dr. Roland Roberts. The successful candidate will be supported by a research assistantship for two semesters and a teaching assistantship for the remainder of the project. Both assistantships are funded at $8,000 per year, plus a full tuition waiver, with an additional $3,000 per year available as summer support. To apply for this position, send an application package that includes 1) your CV; 2) a letter of interest explaining your research interests and how the experience will benefit you in your graduate career; 3) a description of your coursework background and relevant research experience (if any); and 4) names and contact information for three references and/including your academic advisor to: Dr. Vanessa Beauchamp Department of Biological Sciences Towson University 8000 York Road Towson, MD 21252 Email: vbeauch...@towson.edu Phone: 410-704-2286 Fax: 410-704-2405 Position #2 Plant Ecology and G6-12 Education The successful candidate will undertake a floristic inventory of the newly acquired Towson University Field Station located in Monkton, MD. This 92 hectare parcel will serve as a long term ecological research site to investigate impacts of successional processes, herbivore pressure and climate change. Results from this study will serve as the foundation for future projects at this site. Additionally, for the first year of the project, the student will participate in the NSF G6-12 Fellowship Program and will contribute to a new project that is developing environmental science literacy frameworks and teaching resources for teachers and students in grades 6-12. The student will be advised by Dr. Sarah Haines (ESL Project PI) along with Dr. Vanessa Beauchamp and Dr. Roland Roberts. The successful candidate must demonstrate a strong commitment to environmental education and will be supported for one year on a NSF G6-12 Fellowship as part of the Baltimore Ecosystem Study (BES) research and education community. The Fellowships are an integral part of the Environmental Science Literacy (ESL) Project funded by the National Science Foundation at four Long Term Ecological Research (LTER) sites around the nation. While supported by this fellowship, the student is expected to: • Spend 20 hours per week during the school year as a participant in the project. The school year schedule is flexible. • With a classroom teacher, develop classroom applications of ecological research being carried out during the project. • Join the ESL Project’s Research Team to participate in research into teacher and student thinking and learning. • Participate in professional development workshops during the summer and school year. • Receive on-going support from Project scientists and educators as they help 6-12 teachers implement new teaching approaches in their classrooms and schoolyards. • Participate in an annual symposium involving all participants in the project During this fellowship, the student will be supported by a stipend of $25,000 (with no tuition waiver). For the remainder of the project, the student will be supported by a teaching assistantship funded at $8,000 per year
[ECOLOG-L] what to study for an new invasive species?
Wavy-leaf basket grass (Oplismenus hirtellus ssp. undulatifolius) is an invasive grass in Maryland that has invaded forest understories in the last 15 years. The species is starting to be found farther and farther away from the initial invasion site and has been identified in three states. This species forms a thick carpet in the forest understory and several task forces have been organized in response to the perceived threats to native species posed by this grass. Virtually nothing is known about the ecology of this species. We have a list of research needs from stakeholders, but I am trying to compile a list of critical ecological information that is needed when attempting to control this species. If nothing is known about an invasive plant species, and the species poses a threat (a topic for another time), what are the most important avenues of research? I'd appreciate any advice from the list as to what they think is valuable to study or information about any reviews that have already addressed this. Thanks in advance!
[ECOLOG-L] Job Announcement - Assistant Professor, Plant Biologist, Towson University
Applications are invited for a tenure-track appointment in the Department of Biological Sciences (http://www.towson.edu/biology/) at Towson University starting Fall 2009. Candidates must be broadly trained biologists, with the ability to teach Plant Ecology. Applicants are expected to possess a strong commitment to excellence in teaching, show potential for a productive research/scholarly program, and pursue external funding. Teaching responsibilities will include courses in introductory biology, an advanced undergraduate course in the ecology and evolutionary biology of plants, and a graduate-level course in the area of specialty. The successful candidate will be expected to develop a research program that involves undergraduate and graduate students and complements existing research in the department. Ph.D. is required, postdoctoral experience preferred. Position is contingent on state funding at the time of hire. Towson University Founded in 1866, today Towson University is recognized by U.S. News World Report as one of the top public universities in the Northeast and Mid- Atlantic regions. Towson is nationally recognized for its programs in the liberal arts and sciences, business, education, communications, health sciences, and the fine and performing arts. The University places a strong emphasis on service learning and civic engagement through such activities as internships, practica, clinical placements, course assignments and student events. As the Baltimore area’s largest university and Maryland’s Metropolitan University, Towson articulates its research and scholarship mission through partnerships that link the University to the economic, educational and cultural life of the state of Maryland and the mid-Atlantic region. Towson enrolls approximately 21,000 undergraduate and graduate students in 62 undergraduate majors, 39 master’s programs and four doctoral programs. Located on a rolling 328 acres, the striking campus is eight miles north of downtown Baltimore and 45 miles from Washington, D.C. The campus and its surrounding cities provide an excellent environment for teaching and supporting the academic pursuits of the 800 full-time faculty who work here. Application Process Submit CV, copies of transcripts from all institutions attended, a one-page statement on teaching philosophy; a one-page statement on research interests; and three letters of reference. Electronic submission of application materials in PDF or Word format is encouraged. Submit application material to: Dr. Roland Roberts, Chair Plant Biology Search Committee Department of Biological Sciences Towson University 8000 York Road Towson, MD 21252-0001 email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Review of applications will begin on December 10, 2008 and continue until the position is filled. Upon submitting your Curriculum Vitae to indicate your interest in this position, please be sure to visit http://www.towson.edu/odeo/applicantdata.asp to complete a voluntary on- line applicant data form. The information you provide will inform the university's affirmative action plan and is for statistical purposes only and shall not be used to illegally discriminate for or against anyone. Towson University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and has a strong institutional commitment to diversity. Women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] M.S. Student Position: Analysis of patterns of gene flow in Maryland populations of Harperella (Ptilimnium nodosum)
Funding is available for a graduate teaching assistantship in the Department of Biological Sciences at Towson University. The successful candidate will assist in a research study regarding patterns of gene flow in Maryland populations of Harperella (Ptilimnium nodosum), a federally- endangered stream macrophyte. The study will focus on examining patterns and relationships between gene flow via seed and pollen using molecular markers. Understanding historical and contemporary patterns of gene flow and their effects on genetic diversity and genetic structure is necessary to manage and restore populations of Harperella. Identification of more genetically diverse plants may be key to restoring viable populations as these carry more adaptive genetic variance. Additionally, if we understand historical patterns of gene flow we can formulate more educated hypotheses about the manner of restoration efforts, in particular, we can identify the most genetically diverse subpopulations for protection and use in restoration activities. Students would be expected to use data generated from their studies for a Master's thesis at Towson University. The stipend is currently $12,000/year, plus a full tuition waiver and travel costs. The assistantship will begin in August 2009. Deadline for applications is 15 March 2009, but early applications are encouraged. The ideal student for this position is self-motivated, works well independently, and has a strong interest in conservation biology, plant molecular ecology and evolution. The position will require long hours in both the field and laboratory. Prior experience with field research and molecular ecology is preferred but not required. Towson University is located just a mile north of the vibrant city of Baltimore, Maryland. TU’s Department of Biology offers outstanding opportunities for graduate students in several areas including ecology, conservation biology and molecular ecology. Previous graduate students have gone on to Ph.D. programs at a number of major institutions or have found employment with state or federal management agencies. A complete list of departmental facilities, our current Graduate Faculty, and their teaching and research interests is available on our web site at: http://wwwnew.towson.edu/biologicalsciences/graduate_program.html For additional information, contact: Roland P. Roberts Dept. of Biological Sciences Towson University Towson, MD 21252 410-704-3034 [EMAIL PROTECTED]
MS position in plant ecology
Funding is available for a graduate teaching assistantship in the Department of Biological Sciences at Towson University. The successful candidate will assist in a research study of successional dynamics in the Middle Patuxent Environmental Area in Howard County, Maryland. Main focal points of the study include examining relationships between land use history and deer browsing on plant community composition and invasive species abundance. Results from the project will assist Howard County in managing this natural area. Students would be expected to use data generated from their studies for a Master's thesis at Towson University. The stipend is currently $12,000/year, plus a full tuition waiver and travel costs. The assistantship will begin in September 2008. Deadline for applications is 15 March 2008, but early applications are encouraged. The ideal student for this position is self-motivated, works well independently, and has a strong interest in plant ecology and invasive species management. The position will require long hours in the field under moderate conditions (often alone). Prior experience with field research, plant sampling techniques, plant identification and data management are helpful but not required. Towson University is located just a mile north of the vibrant city of Baltimore, Maryland. TUs Department of Biology offers outstanding opportunities for graduate students in several areas including ecology, conservation biology and molecular ecology and conservation. Previous graduate students have gone on to Ph.D. programs at a number of major institutions or have found employment with state or federal management agencies. A complete list of departmental facilities, our current Graduate Faculty, and their teaching and research interests is available on our web site at: http://wwwnew.towson.edu/biologicalsciences/graduate_program.html For additional information, contact: Vanessa B. Beauchamp, Dept. of Biological Sciences, Towson University, Towson, MD 21252, 410-704-2286 [EMAIL PROTECTED]
