[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship: Plant-Insect Interactions in Human-Modified Ecosystems

[Tania Kim]

I am seeking a highly motivated graduate student (PhD preferred, but MS
applications considered) to join the Kim Lab in the Department of Entomology
at Kansas State University. I study the ecology of plant-insect interactions
(e.g. pollination, plant-herbivore) and how these interactions vary with
land management and land-use change. Potential project topics include
examining how disturbance (e.g. fire, grazing) affect plant-insect
interactions, modelling how land-use change affects insect biodiversity and
ecosystem function, and IPM effects on non-target insects and plants. 
Students interested in the fields of community ecology, agroecology,
landscape ecology, and food web interactions are encouraged to apply.
Projects will involve a combination of field work, laboratory/greenhouse
work, and spatial modeling. For more information about current work in the
Kim lab, please visit my website: taniakimecology.com. Positions will be
competitively funded through four-year research assistantship (tuition and
stipend). Students are also encouraged to apply for external fellowships
such as the National Science Foundation Pre-doctoral Fellowship
(https://www.nsfgrfp.org). 

Requirements: Competitive applicants will have backgrounds in biology,
ecology or entomology with an interest in conservation and insect ecology.
Prior experience conducting field work and independent research is
desirable.  Strong quantitative skills (statistics, programing) are also
desirable. Teamwork and good communication skills (oral and writing) are
important.

To apply: A start date of Fall 2019 is preferred, although earlier start
dates (as early as January 2019) may be considered. For consideration please
email a cover letter stating your research interests and qualifications,
your CV with names and contact information for 3 references, and unofficial
transcripts to Dr. Tania Kim (t...@ksu.edu). I will begin screening
applications in mid-October 2018, have initial online or phone interviews in
late October/early November, and extend an invitation for an on-campus visit
in December. Final decisions will be made by late December 2019.  Please
contact me with any inquiries for additional information or to arrange a
phone call. I will also attend the Entomological Society of America
Conference in Vancouver, Canada (November 10-15) so interested students can
arrange to talk to me then as well. 

Information about the Department:

The Department of Entomology maintains excellent research facilities with
state-of-the-art equipment and a research insect collection. It was recently
ranked the 4th best Department of Entomology in the world by the Center for
World University Rankings; these rankings are based on the number and
quality of professional publications produced by the department and quality
of faculty research. In the most recent rankings of PhD programs in US
Departments of Entomology, we were ranked 8th nationally for overall quality
by the National Research Council (http://www.phds.org/rankings/entomology).
Our mission is to: 1) provide entomological knowledge for a safe,
sustainable, and competitive food, feed, and fiber system through integrated
research and education; 2) maintain a stakeholder/clientele-driven focus to
research, extension, and teaching activities; 3) generate fundamental
information for the advancement of science and for applied uses; 4) train
students for professions in education, government, business and industry;
and 5) disseminate useful, unbiased information.

Diversity and Inclusion:

Kansas State University embraces diversity and promotes inclusion in every
sector of the institution. The university established the Office of
Diversity, led by the associate vice president for diversity and a dedicated
staff. Additionally, each college has a designated Diversity Point Person to
provide insight and guidance. Kansas State University received the
prestigious Higher Education Excellence in Diversity, or HEED, award from
Insight Into Diversity magazine for the past three years. Multicultural
students account for 15 percent of our student population, a university
record, and continue to trend higher.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship - Malone Ecology Lab

[Sparkle Malone]

Graduate Research Assistantship Announcement

Department of Biological Sciences
Florida International University

Graduate positions (MS and PhD) are available to pursue research in post-fire 
recovery or C dynamics in the Florida Everglades with the Malone Ecology Lab at 
Florida International University (Miami, FL). Research will focus on estimating 
post-fire recovery rates in Everglades fire-dependent ecosystems or 
understanding the effects of increased freshwater inputs and salt water 
intrusion on the current and future carbon balance of Everglade wetlands.

Qualifications:

  *
Undergraduate degree (BS or BA) in a related field (e.g.,
Ecology, forestry, biology, environmental science, etc.).
  *
Familiarity with ArcGIS, R, and Landsat products.
  *
Prior research experience.

To apply, please submit the following to Dr. Sparkle Malone 
(smal...@fiu.edu):
1) Resume or curriculum vitae
2) Transcripts
3) Contact information for three references

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position 
is filled.

Malone Ecology Lab: http://Malonelab.fiu.edu
FIU Graduate School: http://gradschool.fiu.edu
Department of Biological Sciences: http://biology.fiu.edu

WorldsAhead
Sparkle L. Malone
Assistant Professor
Department of Biological Sciences
Owa Ehan 239
11200 SW 8th St
Miami, FL 33199
Phone: 305-348-1988

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship, Restoration Ecology, Colorado State University

[David J Cooper]

Master of Science Degree Position: Graduate Department Program in Ecology at 
Colorado State 
University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA.
Advisor: Dr David Cooper
Project Title: Examine methods for establishing vegetation on a constructed fen 
in Alberta’s oil sands 
region
Start of term: May 2018
Project background: 
Northern Alberta contains the largest deposit of oil sands in the world and 
conventional open-pit mining 
used to access portions of the deposit removes large expanses of upland forests 
and peatland basins. 
After years of forest and open-water wetland reclamation, industry partners and 
restoration scientists 
have constructed the first self-sustaining reclamation fen and associated 
watershed (the Fen) on a mine 
near Fort McMurray, Alberta. This project is a collaboration between Colorado 
State University (CSU) 
and Waterloo University, involving fen ecology, hydrology, and geography. 
Funding has been granted 
from industry partners and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research 
Council of Canada. The 
overall research goal is to evaluate the Fen's design, compare it to regional 
natural fen systems, and 
develop a globally applicable strategy for similar peatland reclamation 
projects. 
A multi-factorial design was planted in 2013 to determine the most effective 
method to establish 
mosses and plants. After four years of evaluation, a second phase will be 
implemented in 2018 to further 
evaluate methods that were most successful during the first phase.  
A Master's position is now available, under the guidance of Dr. David Cooper at 
CSU. The candidate will 
help design and implement a field experiment to develop methods of introducing 
vegetation to the 
constructed fen. Topics of research could include; species selection, 
vegetation community dynamics, 
interactions between vascular plants and bryophytes, and/or plant responses to 
environmental gradients 
such as water level and salinity measures of planted species..

Candidate Profile: 
Highly motivated candidates should have a B.S. in Ecology, Botany, 
Environmental Sciences, or 
Wetland/Peatland Biology and be familiar with plant identification, vegetation 
surveying, wetland 
ecology, restoration concepts, and/or statistical analysis. 

How to apply and contact information: 
Please send your CV and a motivation letter to Dr. David J. Cooper, 
david.coo...@colostate.edu
Website: http://warnercnr.colostate.edu/~davidc/David_Cooper/Home.html

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship in Stored Product Entomology

[Rob Morrison]

  GraduateResearch Assistantship in Stored Product EntomologyOne graduate 
research assistantship is available for aPh.D. student in the Department of 
Entomology at Kansas State University. Theresearch will focus on the 
development of behaviorally-based managementstrategies such as attract-and-kill 
and the use of long-lasting insecticidenetting to prevent infestation by a 
range of stored product insects (e.g., redflour beetle, lesser grain borer, 
Indian meal moth) in mills, warehouses, andother facilities. This will include 
laboratory assays, semi-field experiments,and field trials. The student will be 
co-advised by faculty from the USDA-ARSCenter for Grain and Animal Health 
Research in Manhattan, KS. Successfulcandidates for this position should 
possess a M.S. in entomology, biology, or arelated field. The student is 
expected to be supported for at least three years,which includes an annual 
stipend of $25,000, graduate student fringe benefits,and tuition and fees 
applied towards the Ph.D. program. The position will beavailable starting in 
January 2018, or until a qualified candidate has beenidentified. Interested 
individuals should send their curriculum vitae, a coverletter, and the contact 
information for three references to either Dr. RobMorrison 
(william.morri...@ars.usda.gov)or Dr. Kun Yan Zhu (k...@ksu.edu)by September 
30, 2017 or as soon as possible. However, complete applicationsmust be 
submitted online at http://entomology.k-state.edu/for-students/admissions.html.
_Rob Morrison, Ph.D.Research EntomologistUSDA-ARS 
Center for Grain and Animal Health ResearchStored Product Insects and 
Engineering Research Unit1515 College Ave.Manhattan, KS 
66502william.morri...@ars.usda.govwww.ars.usda.gov/pa/cgahr/spieru/morrison

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship in Forest Micrometeorology

[Joseph N. Boyer]

Graduate Research Assistantship in Forest Micrometeorology

The Center for the Environment (http://www.plymouth.edu/center-for-the-
environment/) at Plymouth State University (PSU) in NH is inviting 
applications for a MS graduate research assistantship specifically in the 
area of forest micrometeorology using an eddy covariance tower at the 
Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest. The student is expected to take course 
work to earn a MS in Applied Meteorology.

The current research area of interest is in interpretation of energy 
balance estimates in complex terrain. This project involves synthesizing 
data from an eddy covariance flux tower, and making ancillary measurements 
to support energy balance closure. The research will require the student to 
understand field instrumentation, how to analyze large data sets with open 
source scripting languages, and the principles around forest energy budgets.

Responsibilities: The graduate student will assist with maintaining and 
analyzing data from the eddy covariance flux tower at Hubbard Brook 
Experimental Forest. This includes comparisons of eddy covariance 
measurements with other instruments at the sites, data management, and 
possibly satellite derived products. The student will travel monthly to the 
remote forest site to maintain equipment, deploy experiments, and 
participate in field data collection.

Required qualifications: The candidate must have proven abilities to 
conduct independent research and to work as part of a scientific team. 
Experience in data analysis, strong quantitative skills and the ability to 
work in a harsh environment are also required. Experience in or an interest 
in learning open source scripting languages (e.g., python, R) is also 
required. A strong background in statistics is desired. Also, an interest 
in working at the interface of meteorology and forest ecology is desired. 

The participating degree program for this GRA is the Department of 
Atmospheric Science & Chemistry (ASC). The annual GRA stipend ($5,331) and 
tuition support (12 credits) are supported through CFE but the MS degree 
resides in and is managed by ASC. The student will be co-advised by Eric 
Kelsey (ekels...@plymouth.edu, Meteorology) and Mark Green 
(mbgr...@plymouth.edu, Hydrology).

Applications should be submitted to PSU Graduate Studies, 
http://www.plymouth.edu/graduate/. For more information about the MS in 
Applied Meteorology, please contact Program Coordinator, Eric Hoffman 
ehoff...@plymouth.edu.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate research assistantship: Modeling viral transmission

[Ferguson, Paige]

Dr. Paige Ferguson, Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological 
Sciences at the University of Alabama, is seeking a PhD or exceptional MS 
student to begin in Fall 2017 or Spring 2018. Research will focus on modeling 
the transmission of infectious hematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV) among 
salmonids in the Columbia River Basin landscape. The student will extend an 
existing model to investigate generalist and specialist phenotypes. Throughout 
the project, the student will be collaborating with colleagues at multiple 
institutions around the country. The position comes with Research 
Assistantships for three years and addition years of Teaching Assistantships 
through the Department of Biological Sciences.

In the Columbia River Basin, IHNV causes severe disease, predominantly in 
juvenile steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and less frequently in Chinook 
salmon (O. tshawytscha). Mortality events following IHNV infection can be 
devastating for individual hatchery programs. Despite reports of high local 
mortality and extensive surveillance efforts, there are questions about how 
viral transmission is maintained. Modeling this system offers important 
insights into disease transmission in natural aquatic systems. Currently, our 
dynamic epidemiological model evaluates the relative importance of potential 
transmission routes. The student will extend the model to develop understanding 
of how transmission of generalist and specialist genogroups has generated the 
explicit spatio-temporal patterns of infection across the CRB hatchery 
landscape.

Applicants should have a background in ecology, epidemiology, ecological 
modeling, and statistics. Applicants should have strong skills in computer 
programming, GIS, and communication across disciplines. Applicants should be 
highly motivated and prepared to conduct independent modeling research.

To apply, please email Dr. Ferguson 
(pffergu...@ua.edu) the following:
1. a cover letter describing your interest in the project and prior experiences 
that have prepared you for the project
2. your undergraduate transcript (an unofficial copy is fine),
3. GRE scores,
4. a sample of your scientific writing (for example a manuscript or lab 
report), and
5. contact information for 3 references.
Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until positions 
are filled.

Additional information is available from the following links:
Dr. Ferguson’s Research: http://bsc.ua.edu/paige-ferguson/
Department of Biological Sciences: http://bsc.ua.edu/
Graduate School: http://graduate.ua.edu
University of Alabama: http://www.ua.edu
Outdoor opportunities in Alabama: http://www.outdooralabama.com
Tuscaloosa: http://www.tuscaloosa.com/visitor-services

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship (M.S.)-Aquatic Ecology

[Howard Whiteman]

Graduate Research Assistant, Watershed Studies Institute, Murray State 
University.  One full-time position to begin late May 2017.  Qualifications: 
B.S. in biology, ecology, or related discipline.  Previous experience with 
field experiments, stream/riparian ecosystems, amphibians, fish, and/or stream 
invertebrate ecology highly desirable.  Responsibilities: To conduct research 
on trophic interactions in stream and riparian food webs while completing a 
M.S. degree in Watershed Science.  This project is fully funded, including 
travel to field sites in Colorado.  Salary: $16,500 per year.  Other benefits 
include housing at the Hancock Biological Station (Murray, KY) during the 
academic year and High Lonesome Ranch (De Beque, CO) during summers.  To Apply: 
 Email a letter of application, curriculum vitae including undergraduate GPA 
and GRE scores, and the names and email addresses of three references to Dr. 
Howard Whiteman (hwhite...@murraystate.edu ). 
 Deadline: February 15, 2017 or until the position is filled.  Women and 
minorities are encouraged to apply.  Murray State University is an equal 
education and employment opportunity, M/F/D, AA employer.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship - High-elevation Appalachian Birds

[Christopher Rota]

Graduate Research Assistantship – Multi-species dynamics of Appalachian 
bird communities, School of Natural Resources, Wildlife and Fisheries 
Resources Program, West Virginia University

Description: The School of Natural Resources at West Virginia University 
is seeking a highly motivated graduate student at either the PhD or MS 
level to study multi-species dynamics of high-elevation Appalachian bird 
communities.  The student’s thesis or dissertation will evaluate the 
role of interspecific interactions, climate, and environmental 
conditions in shaping the distribution and temporal dynamics of 
Appalachian breeding birds.  The project will have a strong quantitative 
component, and the student should have an interest and aptitude in 
developing advanced quantitative skills.

Qualifications: Degree in wildlife science, ecology, zoology, or closely 
related field.  Candidates should have experience identifying breeding 
birds (preferably within the eastern US) by sound and sight.  Preference 
will be given to candidates experienced with generalized linear mixed 
models, particularly within a Bayesian context, though a demonstrated 
interest and aptitude in developing quantitative skills will go a long 
way.  Candidates must have a minimum 3.25 GPA.  Preference will be given 
to candidates who scored above the 50th percentile in both the 
quantitative and verbal components of the GRE.

Stipend: $16,536 (MS) or $19,848 (PhD), plus health insurance and 
university tuition waiver.

To Apply: Interested individuals should send a CV, cover letter, a 500-
word statement of purpose (why do you want to work on this project, your 
research interests, and long-term career goals), unofficial copy of 
transcripts and GRE scores, and contact information for 3 references as 
a single PDF file to Dr. Christopher Rota at 
christopher.r...@mail.wvu.edu.  Explicitly state within your cover 
letter whether you are applying for the MS or PhD position.  Review of 
applications will begin the week of January 23, and the position will 
remain open until a suitable candidate is found.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate research assistantship, Microbial ecology (NC State)

[Holly Menninger]

Graduate Research Assistantship (M.S. or Ph.D) -- Dept of Applied Ecology,
NC State Univ
Microbial ecology of caviar and fish eggs

A research assistantship is available to support an exceptional,
highly-motivated student who has an inquiring mind and is in pursuit of a
M.S. degree or Ph.D. in Zoology, Functional Genomics, or any other relevant
graduate research degree program. The successful candidate will work in a
molecular biology research laboratory and may conduct field studies on fish
reproduction and spawning. The project is an exciting one that bridges food
science, basic ecology, and fisheries science. The research focus goal is,
in part, to understand the microbial communities that live in preserved
sturgeon roes (caviars) and also, more generally, to understand the
microbes that live on fishes and how they might be transferred to the eggs
once they are laid. The successful candidate will spearhead laboratory
research experiments including metagenomics, microbial culture, and fish
rearing in recirculating aquaculture systems and work among a large group
of scientists interested in topics as diverse as beer ecology, deep
learning algorithms, ant nest microbiomes, and the biodiversity of belly
buttons.

The position could start as soon as January or August 2017. This is a
two-year position for M.S. students with a possible one-year extension
depending on funding and performance. The time frame will be longer for
Ph.D. students and will allow for adequate time to complete the degree
requirements.

Questions should be directed to Dr. Benjamin Reading(bjrea...@unity.ncsu.edu
)

More information and how to apply:
http://robdunnlab.com/the-microbial-ecology-of-caviar-and-fish-eggs/

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship - Western Larch Regeneration

[Andrew Nelson]

The University of Idaho Silviculture Lab (housed within the Department 
of Forest, Rangeland, and Fire Sciences) is seeking a highly motivated 
candidate for graduate research, preferably at the M.S. level, with an 
interest in silviculture, forest regeneration, or tree improvement. The 
student will work on a National Science Foundation, Center for Advanced 
Forestry Systems (CAFS) funded project examining the performance of 
genetically superior western larch (Larix occidentalis) families in the 
nursery and in a field experiment testing the interacting effects of 
pure versus mixed-family plantings, site quality, and competing 
vegetation intensity. The student is expected to begin January 2017.

The project is a collaboration between the Inland Empire Tree 
Improvement Cooperative and the Intermountain Forestry Cooperative at 
the University of Idaho. Members of these cooperatives included numerous 
private, state, and federal organizations that the student will interact 
with through attendance and presentations at annual meetings. Seedlings 
will be grown at the University of Idaho Franklin H. Pitkin Forest 
Nursery, which grows more than 400,000 seedlings per year. The Nursery 
is conveniently located near the University of Idaho main campus in 
Moscow, Idaho. Outplanting field sites will be located across the Inland 
Empire (northeastern Washington to the crest of the Bitterroot 
Mountains).

This assistantship includes a stipend for up to 2 years, a waiver of 
tuition and fees, and health insurance. Assistantships require 20 hours 
per week of work related to research, outreach, and teaching. The 
student will attend the CAFS annual meeting to present project updates.
Required qualifications include at least one degree in Forestry, 
Ecology, or a related discipline, and an interest in improving 
regeneration success and forest productivity. The successful candidate 
will demonstrate an ability to work both independently and as a team 
member, and be comfortable traveling and working in the field and 
greenhouse. Applicants must have a valid U.S. driver’s license or 
ability to obtain one soon after their initial appointment. Additional 
qualifications include previous research experience and an interest in 
working with forest landowners and agencies to improve forest 
management.

Interested applicants should send a cover letter detailing their 
interest in the position, their resume or curriculum vitae, contact 
information for three professional or academic references, unofficial 
transcripts, and scores on the Graduate Record Exam in a single pdf file 
to Dr. Andrew Nelson (asnel...@uidaho.edu).

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship - Western Larch Regeneration

[Andrew Nelson]

The University of Idaho Silviculture Lab 
(http://nelsondrew.wixsite.com/silviculture) (housed within the 
Department of Forest, Rangeland, and Fire Sciences) is seeking a highly 
motivated candidate for graduate research, preferably at the M.S. level, 
with an interest in silviculture, forest regeneration, or tree 
improvement. The student will work on a National Science Foundation, 
Center for Advanced Forestry Systems (CAFS) 
(https://research.cnr.ncsu.edu/cafs/) funded project examining the 
performance of genetically superior western larch (Larix occidentalis) 
families in the nursery and in a field experiment testing the 
interacting effects of pure versus mixed-family plantings, site quality, 
and competing vegetation intensity. The student is expected to begin 
January 2017.

The project is a collaboration between the Inland Empire Tree 
Improvement Cooperative 
(http://www.webpages.uidaho.edu/ietic/mainbody.htm) and the 
Intermountain Forestry Cooperative (https://www.uidaho.edu/cnr/ifc) at 
the University of Idaho. Members of these cooperatives included numerous 
private, state, and federal organizations that the student will interact 
with through attendance and presentations at annual meetings. Seedlings 
will be grown at the University of Idaho Franklin H. Pitkin Forest 
Nursery (http://www.uidaho.edu/cnr/cfnsr), which grows more than 400,000 
seedlings per year. The Nursery is conveniently located near the 
University of Idaho main campus in Moscow, Idaho. Outplanting field 
sites will be located across the Inland Empire (northeastern Washington 
to the crest of the Bitterroot Mountains).

This assistantship includes a stipend for up to 2 years, a waiver of 
out-of-state tuition for non-Idaho residents, a waiver of in-state 
tuition and fees, and health insurance. Assistantships require 20 hours 
per week of work related to research, outreach, and teaching. The 
student will attend the CAFS annual meeting to present project updates.

Required qualifications include at least one degree in Forestry, 
Ecology, or a related discipline, and an interest in improving 
regeneration success and forest productivity. The successful candidate 
will demonstrate an ability to work both independently and as a team 
member, and be comfortable traveling and working in the field and 
greenhouse. Applicants must have a valid U.S. driver’s license or 
ability to obtain one soon after their initial appointment. Additional 
qualifications include previous research experience and an interest in 
working with forest landowners and agencies to improve forest 
management.

Interested applicants should send a cover letter detailing their 
interest in the position, their resume or curriculum vitae, contact 
information for three professional or academic references, unofficial 
transcripts, and scores on the Graduate Record Exam in a single pdf file 
to Dr. Andrew Nelson (asnel...@uidaho.edu).

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate research assistantship in forest biometrics

[Bharat Pokharel]

*Graduate research assistantship in forest biometrics
*

A master level graduate research assistantship in the Department of 
Agricultural and Environmental Sciences is available from fall 2016 at 
Tennessee State University, Nashville Tennessee for highly motivated 
student to work on project that evaluates the opportunities as well as 
direct and indirect costs associated with intensive harvesting of woody 
biomass for bioenergy production. The goals of the project are to a) map 
stand level forest attributes across the forest landscape using forest 
inventory and analysis (FIA) data, Landsat images and airborne LiDAR 
point cloud, and b) evaluate impacts on long-term forest productivity 
that supports major ecological services due to intensive biomass 
harvesting practices.  The graduate student will have the opportunity to 
interact with scientists from academia, industries and government 
agencies in the Southern United States.  A working knowledge or 
background in forestry/ecology, GIS, forest inventory, and statistical 
modeling are essential but not required.  This is a fully funded 12 
months research assistantship position that includes: competitive 
monthly stipend and a full tuition waiver for two years. Interested 
students who have bachelor degree in forestry or ecology or agriculture 
or statistics or geography or any other related fields should email PDF 
copy of their 1) CV/Resume, 2) statement of research interest and 
experience, 3) GRE scores (TOEFL scores are required for international 
applicants), 4) unofficial copy of university transcripts, and 5) names 
of and contact information for three professional references to Dr. 
Bharat Pokharel at bpokh...@tnstate.edu or contact at +1-615-963-6054 if 
there are any questions.  Review of applications will commence upon 
receipt and will continue until a suitable candidate is chosen.


Tennessee State University is a public university located in downtown 
Nashville, Tennessee. Nashville is a multi-cultural city well-known for 
country music. Tennessee State University is an AA/EEO (affirmative 
action and equal employment opportunity) employer.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship (PhD) Exploring Wolf-Cougar Interactions in Washington

[Aaron J. Wirsing]

Agency
University of Washington

Location
Seattle, WA

Job Category
Graduate Assistantships (PhD)

Website
http://www.predatorecology.com/

Salary
Full support (stipend, tuition, and medical benefits) provided for 4 years. 

Start Date
09/28/2016

Last Date to Apply
04/15/2016

Description

After an 80-year absence, the gray wolf is naturally recolonizing the Pacific 
Northwest of the 
United States, dispersing from populations in the Rocky Mountains and British 
Columbia. This 
process has raised questions about how wolves might interact with other 
predators and prey as 
well as the their economic impacts in managed landscapes where logging, cattle 
ranching and 
hunting are permitted. One interesting scenario is that wolves could alter the 
behavior of the 
region’s other top predator, the cougar, and as a result modify patterns of 
predation on native 
ungulate populations. Our goal is to explore this possibility using a natural 
experiment that 
compares movements and foraging behavior of cougars before and after wolf 
recolonization.  

We seek a highly motivated doctoral student who will have the opportunity to 1) 
capture, handle, 
and deploy GPS collars on cougars; 2) inspect cougar kill sites to quantify 
prey selection and kill 
rates; 3) undertake spatial and statistical analyses of cougar behavior prior 
to and after the arrival 
of wolves; and 4) collaborate with a diverse group of researchers.

This project falls under the umbrella of a larger study led by the Washington 
Department of Fish 
and Wildlife (WDFW) whose overarching goal is to understand whether and how the 
return of 
wolves is affecting native ecosystem dynamics and, in particular, ungulate 
populations. Thus, the 
student will work closely with WDFW and collaborate with other researchers 
exploring ungulate 
behavior and demography while completing a Ph.D. in Environmental and Forest 
Sciences 
(http://www.sefs.washington.edu/) at the University of Washington under the 
co-supervision of 
Associate Professor Aaron Wirsing (University of Washington), Dr Thomas Newsome 
(Deakin 
University / University of Sydney / Oregon State University), and Dr Brian 
Kertson (WDFW). The 
student will conduct field research at sites in Washington State where data on 
cougar movements 
and foraging were collected by WDFW prior to the return of wolves. The 
fieldwork will involve travel 
in large trucks with trailers, use of snowmobiles, extensive hiking, capturing 
of cougars with the 
assistance of hounds or via the use of cage traps, anesthetizing cougars for 
GPS collaring, and tree 
climbing. The doctoral student will also be responsible for training and 
supervising field 
technicians and volunteers. 

Qualifications

Applicants must have a M.S. degree in wildlife science or a closely related 
discipline. Preference will 
be given to those who have experience 1) capturing, handling, and collaring 
cougars, or other 
large carnivores; 2) inspecting kill sites; 3) working with and analyzing large 
data sets; 4) analyzing 
GPS and kill site data; 5) using resource selection/utilization analysis tools; 
and 6) working in 
remote locations under sometimes challenging conditions. Given that this 
project is part of a larger 
multi-species effort, we will also prioritize applicants who are interested in 
both predator-predator 
and predator-prey interactions. A current valid (U.S.) motor vehicle license is 
required for this 
position, as is a driving record that will merit approval to operate State 
government vehicles. 

Full financial support (stipend, tuition, and benefits) will be provided for 4 
years. The student will 
be expected to secure teaching assistantships to cover the remainder of their 
tenure if it extends 
beyond this time frame.

To apply for this position please send a 1-page cover letter that outlines your 
experience 
undertaking large carnivore research and analyzing large datasets, as well as 
your long-term 
career goals. Please also include a CV (maximum of 2 pages) that includes 1) 
GPA and GRE scores; 
2) publications, awards and grants; 3) work and research experience; and 4) 
current contacts for 3 
professional or academic references.

Please submit your application as a single PDF document named with the 
following format: 
Lastname_Firstname. 

Applications should be emailed to: Associate Professor Aaron Wirsing at 
wirsi...@uw.edu and 
please cc Dr Thomas Newsome at t.news...@deakin.edu.au

Please note that the student must be willing to start the project by 09/28/2016 
(the beginning of 
the autumn quarter at UW). Only those who have been shortlisted (up to five 
people) will be 
contacted. The shortlisted candidates may be required to conduct Skype and/or 
face-to-face 
interviews. 

Review of applications will commence on 04/16/2016.

Contact Person
Aaron Wirsing

Contact Phone
(206) 543-1585

Contact email
wirsi...@uw.edu

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship Announcement: “Vegetation change in northern Alaska”

[David Inouye]

Graduate Research Assistantship Announcement

"Vegetation change in northern Alaska"


A graduate research assistantship at the Masters level is available with

Dr. Robert Hollister in the Department of Biology, Grand Valley State 
University (GVSU)


(http://faculty.gvsu.edu/hollistr/Projects.html) 





The project is working to document and understand vegetation change 
in northern Alaska associated with climate change.  The current 
funding for the research is from NSF as part of the Arctic 
Observatory Network and the GVSU component contributes to a larger 
project that links findings from automated sensor platforms that 
measure a suite of vegetation surface properties at the sub-meter 
scale (led by Steve Oberbauer at Florida International University) 
with medium-scale aerial imagery, using Kite Aerial Photography 
acquired throughout the growing season and satellite imagery (led by 
Craig Tweedie at the University of Texas in El Paso) to scale 
observed changes to the regional level.  The research incorporates a 
warming experiment to forecast vegetation change due to climate 
change at study sites established in the mid 90's as part of the 
International Tundra Experiment (ITEX) network (ITEX is a network or 
collaborating researchers that use a common protocol so that 
observations from across the tundra can be analyzed together and 
result in high impact synthesis papers).  The project now includes 
over 20 years of observations and there are a wide array of options 
for study.




The duties of this position will include field sampling of tundra 
vegetation in Barrow and Atqasuk, Alaska, leading the field crew in 
Alaska, coordinating logistics, organization and analyses of data 
collected previously and by the candidate, and the completion of a 
thesis and peer-reviewed publications, as well as the successful 
completion of the requirements of the degree.  Competitive candidates 
for this position will have a strong work ethic, proficiency in 
written and oral communication, strong GRE scores, and evidence of 
scholastic success.  Preference will be given to applicants who are 
self-motivated and enthusiastic about conducting field-based 
research.  The position will be based in Grand Rapids, MI, with field 
work in Alaska.  The position is available to begin in May or August 2016.




The successful candidate will receive tuition support and a 
competitive stipend.


To apply, please submit the following as an attached pdf to Robert 
Hollister holli...@gvsu.edu


1)personal statement of career goals

2)resume or curriculum vitae

3)transcripts

4)GRE scores

5)contact information for three references



Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a 
candidate is selected.

[ECOLOG-L] GRADUATE RESEARCH ASSISTANTSHIP IN BAKER CYPRESS ECOLOGY AT HUMBOLDT STATE UNIVERSITY

[Jeffrey Kane]

Masters Assistantship available in Fire and Forest Ecology 
Department of Forestry and Wildland Resources, Humboldt State University 

GRADUATE RESEARCH IN BAKER CYPRESS ECOLOGY

Dr. Jeffrey Kane, Assistant Professor, Department of Forestry and Wildland
Resources at Humboldt State University
(http://humboldt.edu/fwr/faculty/detail/jeff_kane) seeks applications from
highly-motivated students interested in pursuing graduate studies in fire
and forest ecology as a member of the HSU Wildland Fire Lab
(http://www.humboldt.edu/firelab/). The selected student will use
dendrochronology techniques to investigate the impacts of climate and fire
exclusion on tree growth, reproduction, and mortality in a rare conifer,
Baker cypress (Hesperocyparis bakeri), of northern California. 

ANTICIPATED START DATE 
• Fieldwork would start June 1st, 2016 and student would begin coursework at
HSU in Fall 2016

ASSISTANTSHIP BENEFITS 
• Stipend: $17,000 per year for MS student (for 2 years) 

ELIGIBILITY 
Strong candidates for admission to the HSU, Department of Forestry and
Wildland Resources graduate program will have: 
• Grade point average of 3.0 or greater on a 4.0 scale in all college and
university work 
• GRE scores in the top 40th% (~ 500 Verbal, 600 Quantitative, 4.5
Analytical Writing)
• Demonstrated research interest and experience in forestry, ecology, or
related field

HOW TO APPLY 
Send (as a PDF or Word Document): 1) a CV (including GPA, GRE scores and
complete contact information); 2) a letter of interest (clearly stated
research interests and background); 3) unofficial transcripts, and 4) the
names and contact information of three references to: jk...@humboldt.edu.
Review of applications will begin on March 1st, 2016. 

After an initial screening, one student will be asked to submit a formal
application through CSUMentor (http://www.csumentor.edu/AdmissionApp/). 
Women and applicants from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds are
especially encouraged to apply. Students who do not have a previous degree
in forestry are eligible for admission to the Department of Forestry and
Wildland Resources graduate program.  However, students who are admitted may
be required to take prerequisite undergraduate forestry courses (e.g. forest
mensuration, silviculture). 

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship (PhD) in Remote Sensing Ecosystem Science

[Nancy Glenn]

The Department of Geosciences at Boise State University currently has an 
open graduate research assistantship (GRA) starting summer or fall 2016 
to study the response of northern peatland ecosystems to increased 
temperature and elevated atmospheric CO2 with remote sensing. This 
project is supported by DOE’s SPRUCE experiment. This exciting project 
will provide the student an opportunity to better understand how a 
changing climate will affect the vulnerable boreal peatland forest while 
gaining skills and methods to monitor changes with lidar and optical 
remote sensing. Seasonal repeat measurements with remote sensing will be 
made to monitor leaf area, aboveground biomass, canopy heights, and 
ground inflation/deflation at the SPRUCE experiment. A canopy 
transmittance model will also be developed. The GRA will have the 
opportunity to interact with SPRUCE collaborators, present at national 
meetings, and become part of the Boise State University Boise Center 
Aerospace Laboratory (BCAL) remote sensing team. 

We seek a highly qualified student with a strong quantitative science 
background and eagerness to utilize geospatial tools for ecosystem 
science. The ideal candidate will have a recent MS degree is ecology, 
forestry or equivalent nature resources discipline, strong statistics, 
programming, and geospatial skills. 

The GRA provides a full PhD stipend, health insurance, and tuition for 
Boise State University. Boise State is Idaho’s largest university and is 
a metropolitan research university of distinction situated in the 
capitol of Idaho.

To apply: email a 2-page CV, unofficial transcripts, along with a cover 
letter explaining your interest to Dr. Nancy Glenn 
(nancygl...@boisestate.edu).

For more information on BCAL: http://bcal.boisestate.edu/ and the DOE 
SPRUCE experiment: http://mnspruce.ornl.gov/project/overview

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship in Ecohydrology, U of Hawaii, Manoa

[Yin-Phan Tsang]

*Graduate Research Assistantship in Ecohydrology, Department of Natural
Resources and Environmental Management, University of Hawaii, Manoa*



A M.S. graduate assistantship in Ecohydrology and Environment Science in
the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Management at
University of Hawaii, Manoa may be available Fall 2016, contingent upon
funding. The applicant will be expected to fulfill all Department and
University requirements for a graduate degree in a timely manner, conduct
original applied research related to Ecohydrology and its application to
freshwater ecosystem and natural resources management, participate in
Department and University activities, working with project collaborators
and its stakeholders, and be an active lab member.



*Position Description: *This research addresses the needs for the distinct
hydrologic and watershed conditions in Hawaii islands and empirically
tested the hydrologic theories that incorporates climatic and anthropogenic
characteristics, with a broader aim to link “ridge to reef” and to
understand freshwater influences to Hawaii coastal systems. Toward that
end, this project examines the flow processes and establish empirical
models to describe the stream flow and sediment transport in Hawaii streams
and watersheds. This research seeks to improve the hydrologic models to
describe water availability in facing climate change, and its management
implication to freshwater ecosystem, sustainable agriculture, and sediment
input in coastal area of Hawaii. The research objectives are to:

1) identify current status of surface hydrology in Hawaii watersheds
and understand its impact on freshwater ecosystem and natural resources
management.

2) survey and compile data to establish models for Hawaiian streams to
link with ecosystems and agriculture



*Qualifications and Application Instructions: *Competitive applicants will
be highly motivated and independent, have some experience with hydrology ,
environmental science, or environmental management, GIS and statistical
background is a plus, willing to work collaboratively and communicate
projects with stakeholders, be willing to engage with the Department and
the University. Preference will be given to applicants with hydrology and
aquatic ecology experience and who have published. Interested individuals
should email Dr. Yin-Phan Tsang as soon as possible. Please provide the
following materials: 1) cover letter describing general research interests
and specific experiences; 2) brief statement of professionals goals; 3)
resume; 4) transcripts (unofficial ok); and 6) list of two references with
contact information (email, phone, address); and 6) GRE and TOEFL scores,
if available.



*The University of Hawai'i at Mānoa (UHM) *was founded in 1907 as the
College of Agriculture and Mechanical Arts, renamed the College of Hawai'i,
the institution in 1912, during which the first graduation conferred four
degrees. In 1920, the institution became the University of Hawai'i. Located
in the Pacific Ocean, midway between Asia and the Americas, the Hawaiian
Islands form a bridge between East and West. Many graduate programs at UHM
have benefited from Hawai'i's unique geographical location and the
advantages that it provides. The university offers internationally renowned
programs in Asian theatre, astronomy, developmental and reproductive
biology, international business, marine biology, ocean and earth sciences
and technology, second language studies, travel industry management, and
tropical agriculture. The *Natural Resources and Environmental Management
department* *(NREM)* at UHM emphasizes the science and management of
natural resources and their links to environmental quality. NREM provide
students with scientific knowledge of the physical, chemical, biological,
economic, social, and policy elements of natural resources management. This
allows them to understand the principles that underpin productive,
sustainable land use, and enhanced environmental quality.





*Please direct correspondence to:*

Yin-Phan Tsang, Ph.D.

Natural Resources and Environmental Management

University of Hawaii, Manoa

Phone: +1 808-956-6361

Email: tsa...@hawaii.edu

http://yinphantsang.org/

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate research assistantship in Insect Ecology

[Zsofia Szendrei]

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] Graduate Research Assistantship in remote sensing at Montana State University

[Scott Powell]

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] Graduate Research Assistantship positions at Michigan Technological University to study invasive watermilfoil in Michigan waterways.

[Erika Hersch-Green]

We have two Graduate Research Assistantships available for two graduate
students (MS/PhD) to work on the population genetics and community ecology
of invasive watermilfoil in Michigan waterways funded by the Michigan
Invasive Species Grants Program. One student will focus on the genetics
(microsatellites) and patterns of hybridization with native watermilfoil in
relation to herbicide resistance, and one student will focus on
understanding the ecology of invaded and treated communities within various
waterways to help understand the effects of the invasive and its control,
and design and implement management practices to better control invasive
watermilfoil.  Students will collaborate with each other and other members
of a multifaceted team that includes university researchers, community and
state agencies, and private and corporate interest groups.

Minimal qualifications include a background in ecology, evolution, invasive
species, and/or population genetics (through coursework OR research
positions) and a growing interest in these fields. A strong academic record,
evidence of excellent written and analytical skills, and enthusiasm for
field and laboratory research will be highly favored. 

Interested persons should contact Dr. Erika Hersch-Green (ehers...@mtu.edu)
and/or Dr. Casey Huckins (cjhuc...@mtu.edu) by email and include a CV, a
statement of interest in the research assistantship and their research
interests in general, and the names of three references. Suitable candidates
will then be contacted for an interview to discuss projects and reference
letters will be requested. Invited students will need to submit a formal
application to the graduate school at Michigan Technological University. 

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until April 15th
or until the positions are filled. 

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate research assistantship

[Guiming Wang]

Hi all,

Below is an announcement for an MS-level graduate research assistant 
position.  Sorry for cross posting.

Guiming Wang



Research Assistantship
M.S. in Wildlife and Fisheries Science
Mississippi State University

Project Title: Fine-scale seasonal movements of eastern wild turkeys in 
Mississippi 

Project Description: One M.S. Research Assistantship is available within 
the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture at Mississippi 
State University.  Thesis research project is aimed to: 1) understand 
fine-scale movements of eastern wild turkeys in response to 
spatiotemporal variation in resources and weather in multiple sites 
across Mississippi using GPS telemetry; and 2) assess the effects of 
genetic relatedness and social affinity on the movements of wild turkeys 
using radio telemetry and microsatellite analysis in central 
Mississippi.  The student will collect GPS relocation data across 
Mississippi.  The research project involves spatial modeling of movement 
data.   

Qualifications: B.S. degree in wildlife sciences or a related field.  
Extensive in-state travel is required.  Desirable qualifications include 
excellent written and oral communication skills and good organizational 
skills.  A minimum 3.0 GPA and having taken the GRE is desired.  
Coursework in GIS or spatial analysis would be beneficial.

Location: Starkville, Mississippi

Starting Date: 1 August, 2015

Stipend:  $16,500 per year plus tuition and health benefits

Closing Date: 1 May, 2015 or until position is filled

Application: Apply via electronic application within the Office of 
Graduate Studies, Mississippi State University.  Also create a single 
PDF document containing the following: 1) cover letter describing 
credentials and professional goals; 2) a resume; 3) three references; 
and 4) a copy of university transcripts and GRE/TOEFL scores.  Please 
email this file to Dr. Guiming Wang (guiming.w...@msstate.edu) with 
“Wild turkey Assistantship” in the subject line.

Inquiries:  Dr. Guiming Wang; email: guiming.w...@msstate.edu; phone: 
662-325-0414

MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY 
AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship in Aquatic Ecology

[Howard Whiteman]

Graduate Research Assistant in Aquatic Ecology, Watershed Studies Institute, 
Murray State University.  One full-time position to begin June 2015.  
Qualifications: B.S. in biology, ecology, or related discipline.  Previous 
experience with field and/or lab experiments, pond ecosystems, and amphibian 
and invertebrate ecology highly desirable.  Responsibilities: To conduct 
research on the predatory effects of size-structured salamander populations on 
community and ecosystem interactions while completing a M.S. degree in 
Watershed Science. Salary: $12,000 per year plus potential for competitive 
tuition waivers.  Other benefits include housing at the Hancock Biological 
Station (Murray, KY).  To Apply:  Email a letter of application, curriculum 
vitae including undergraduate GPA and GRE scores, and the names and email 
addresses of three references to Dr. Howard Whiteman 
(hwhite...@murraystate.edu).  Deadline: March 1, 2015 or until the position is 
filled.  Women and minorities are strongly encouraged to apply.  Murray State 
University is an equal education and employment opportunity, M/F/D, AA employer.


Howard H. Whiteman
Professor, Department of Biological Sciences
Director, Watershed Studies Institute

Department of Biological Sciences
Murray State University
Murray, KY  42071-0009

Phone: (270) 809-6753
FAX:   (270) 809-2788

http://campus.murraystate.edu/academic/faculty/hwhiteman/index.shtml

http://www.murraystate.edu/wsi/

Everything is in a watershed

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship, Fire Ecology

[Michael Stambaugh]

A Master of Science graduate assistantship is available with Dr. Michael 
Stambaugh in the Department of Forestry 
(http://www.snr.missouri.edu/forestry/) at University of Missouri. In 
the theme of oak woodland restoration and management, this project will 
investigate the effects of different treatments on forest community 
vegetation composition and structure. This work, funded by the U.S. 
Forest Service, will be conducted over 2.5 years and take place at 2 to 
3 sites in southeastern Kansas. The duties of this position will include 
pre- and post-treatment vegetation sampling and data analysis. Emphasis 
will be placed on treatment effects on oak regeneration, growth, and 
survival. Completion of coursework, a thesis project, and peer-reviewed 
publication(s) are also required. Competitive candidates for this 
position will have a B.S. degree in forestry or a closely related 
discipline, proficiency in written and oral communication, strong GRE 
scores, and evidence of scholastic success. Prior experience in field 
data collection is preferred, but not required. The position will be 
based in Columbia, MO, with two summers of field work in Kansas. The 
position begins in May 2015.

The successful candidate will receive tuition support and a competitive 
stipend. To apply, please submit the following to Dr. Michael Stambaugh 
(stambau...@missouri.edu):

1)  personal statement of career goals
2)  resume or curriculum vitae
3)  transcripts
4)  GRE scores
5)  contact information for three references

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a 
candidate is selected. 

Dr. Michael Stambaugh
Research Assistant Professor
Department of Forestry
University of Missouri
203C Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building
Columbia MO 65211
Email: stambau...@missouri.edu
Website: http://web.missouri.edu/~stambaughm/

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship for M.A. in Economics or M.S. in Systems Ecology at the University of Montana

[Naughton, Helen]

Graduate Research Assistantship for M.A. in Economics or M.S. in Systems Ecology
at the University of Montana
A masters-level Graduate Research Assistantship is available for an outstanding 
candidate to research the effects of alternative forest management practices on 
subsequent fire suppression expenditures.  Position starts as early as June 1, 
2015 and no later than August 15, 2015.  Tuition waiver and research assistant 
stipend will be provided for a two-year period.  The successful applicant has 
the option to pursue either an M.A. in Economics within the College of 
Humanities and Sciences or an M.S. in Systems Ecology, an interdisciplinary 
degree offerered jointly through the College of Forestry and Conservation and 
the College of Humanities and Sciences.
Empirical investigations into the effects of fuels treatments and previous 
fires on subsequent fire suppression expenditures are needed.  Such information 
can help public land management agencies as they seek to find economically 
efficient solutions to reduce wildfire risk while simultaneously creating 
landscape conditions that facilitate the use of natural fire to improve 
ecosystem health.  The project’s goal is to develop spatial econometric models 
of fire suppression expenditures for individual fires using geospatial and 
ancillary data.  These models will be used to evaluate and compare the effects 
of fuels treatments and previous fires on subsequent fire suppression 
expenditures.  The successful applicant will assist in data collection, model 
development and interpretation, and preparation of peer-reviewed publications.
A bachelor’s degree in economics or evidence of substantial econometrics 
knowledge and skills is required. Previous experience with geographic 
information systems (GIS) and statistical programs (e.g. Stata, R, Matlab) is 
highly desirable.  Candidates must possess an excellent academic record, strong 
references and demonstrated writing and communication skills. Education or 
experience directly relevant to the project described above would be nice. 
Individuals interested in spatial statistics, geospatial analysis, applied 
econometrics, and natural resource management are encouraged to apply.
To apply, send (1) a cover letter that describes your interest in this project; 
(2) resume or CV; (3) GRE scores; (4) academic transcripts; (5) a writing 
sample and (6) contact information for three references.  Evaluation of 
candidates will begin March 15, 2014.  Please direct questions about this 
opportunity to Helen Naughton, Associate Professor of Economics, University of 
Montana; helen.naugh...@umontana.edumailto:helen.naugh...@umontana.edu; phone 
+1 406-243-4586.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship-stream and riparian food webs

[Howard Whiteman]

Graduate Research Assistant, Watershed Studies Institute, Murray State 
University.  One full-time position to begin late May 2015.  Qualifications: 
B.S. in biology, ecology, or related discipline.  Previous experience with 
field experiments, stream/riparian ecosystems, and/or stream invertebrate 
ecology highly desirable.  Responsibilities: To conduct research on trophic 
interactions in stream and riparian food webs while completing a M.S. degree in 
Watershed Science.  This project is fully funded, including travel to field 
sites in Colorado.  Salary: $16,500 per year.  Other benefits include housing 
at the Hancock Biological Station (Murray, KY) during the academic year and 
High Lonesome Ranch (De Beque, CO) during summers.  To Apply:  Email a letter 
of application, curriculum vitae including undergraduate GPA and GRE scores, 
and the names and email addresses of three references to Dr. Howard Whiteman 
(hwhite...@murraystate.edu).  Deadline: December 20, 2014 or until the position 
is filled.  Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.  Murray State 
University is an equal education and employment opportunity, M/F/D, AA 
employer.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship to Study Fire, Larch, and Carbon Cycling in Siberia

[Heather D. Alexander]

M.S. Position Available to Study Fire, Larch Forests, and C Dynamics in Siberia

I am seeking a MS-level graduate student to conduct research on fire, larch
forests, and carbon dynamics in far northeastern Siberia. The student will
join a collaborative team of researchers, including scientists from the
University of Texas – Brownsville, Woods Hole Research Center, Colgate
University, Northern Arizona University, and Russian Academy of Sciences.
The student will spend 4-5 weeks during summers 2015 and 2016 conducting
field-based research out of the Northeast Science Station in Cherskii,
Russia.  Research may include measurements of larch succession within
experimental burn plots and across natural burn gradients, quantification of
changes in permafrost characteristics following fire, and estimation of
carbon pools and fluxes in stands with varying fire histories. 

The student will be employed as a Graduate Research Assistantship (GRA) in
the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Texas-Brownsville
(http://www.utb.edu/biology/). The successful applicant will be expected to
enroll full time in the UTB Biology Master’s program pursuing the thesis
option. This is a unique opportunity to join a young and expanding
department located in one of the fastest growing, culturally diverse regions
in the nation situated minutes from Padre Island, Laguna Madre, and the Gulf
of Mexico. The Department of Biological Sciences offers degrees at the B.S.
and M.S. level and is expanding its graduate programs. By fall 2015, UTB
will be fully merged with UT Pan Am (UTPA) in Edinburg as UT Rio Grande
Valley (UTRGV), with a combined undergraduate enrollment of over 30,000.
 
Applicants must have a Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, or a related
field. Successful candidates must demonstrate an aptitude for research and
ability to work independently. Prior experience in fieldwork related to
plant and ecosystem ecology is preferred, as are data analysis and
scientific writing experience. The applicant must be able and willing to
travel internationally and be field capable. A current, valid U.S. driver's
license and good driving record is also required. 

The GRA will be expected to work 19 hours/week in the laboratory of his/her
faculty advisor and participate in outreach events associated with
grant-related and departmental activities.The position will begin in spring
2015 and end in fall 2016. The available GRA has $1250 per month stipend
($15,000 annually) and is benefits eligible. The GRA also includes a tuition
scholarship of $2,450 per semester for spring and fall 2015 and spring and
fall 2016. This should covers tuition and fees for 9 credit hr per semester
and includes an out-of-state tuition waiver. All travel to Siberia is
covered by the research grant.

Interested applicants should send to Dr. Heather Alexander
(heather.alexan...@utb.edu) a copy of their CV or resume, unofficial
transcripts and GRE scores, a written statement of graduate research
interests, and letters of recommendations from two referees. 
Applications not containing all of these elements will not be considered.
Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the
position is filled.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate research assistantship in stormwater research

[Kara Woo]

We seek a highly motivated Ph.D. student to work on interdisciplinary 
environmental issues related to stormwater and low impact development 
(LID), with the specific topics to be defined primarily by the successful 
candidate in collaboration with interested faculty in the Washington State 
University (WSU) Center for Environmental Research, Education and Outreach 
(CEREO; http://cereo.wsu.edu) and WSU’s Low Impact Development Stormwater 
Research Program (http://puyallup.wsu.edu/stormwater/) Aging 
infrastructure, climate change, human pressures on groundwater supplies, 
and emerging pollutants are motivating adoption of LID approaches to 
stormwater management, and creating a broad landscape of opportunities for 
interdisciplinary research that answers fundamental questions about complex 
ecosystem functioning in service to broader societal needs. This work is 
anticipated to provide the successful candidate with exceptional 
opportunities to interact with diverse individuals and groups working at 
the forefront of stormwater research and management in non-profit 
organizations, municipalities, universities and the private sector. 

The successful candidate will have a background in aquatic science, 
ecology, ecotoxicology, civil engineering or a related discipline, strong 
quantitative skills (e.g. statistics, modeling), strong communication 
skills for both written technical communication and communication with the 
public, and comfort with both self-directed and highly collaborative work. 
A Masters degree is preferred, but accomplished and exceptionally motivated 
individuals with a Bachelors degree will receive full consideration as 
well.

The graduate student will work directly under the mentorship of Professor 
Stephanie Hampton (http://environment.wsu.edu/people/faculty/hampton.html), 
in residence at WSU-Pullman, with frequent travel to and residence at WSU-
Puyallup Research and Extension Center 
(http://puyallup.wsu.edu/stormwater/) where stormwater and LID research 
facilities are ideal for a wide diversity of projects. The student may be 
admitted as early as January 2015, and the possibility exists for temporary 
employment as a research assistant in the Fall of 2014. 

Please submit 1) a CV or resume, 2) names and contact information for 3 
professional references, and 3) a cover letter briefly describing how your 
background fits this position, and your interests in future research. We 
will begin reviewing applications on 26 September 2014. Please direct 
inquiries to Stephanie Hampton (s.hamp...@wsu.edu) with subject header 
“stormwater research”.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship, Fire Ecology

[Michael Stambaugh]

A Master of Science graduate assistantship is available with Dr. Michael 
Stambaugh in the Department of Forestry 
(http://www.snr.missouri.edu/forestry/) at University of Missouri. This 
project will investigate conditions of historic fire regimes at national 
wildlife refuges located in Oklahoma and Texas. This work, funded by the 
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, will be conducted over 2 years and take 
place on 2 to 3 refuges. The duties of this position will include sampling 
trees for fire history reconstruction, wood sample preparation, and 
identification and dating of fire scars using dendrochronological methods. 
Completion of coursework, a thesis project, and peer-reviewed publication(s) 
are also required. The student may build upon fire regime data to 
investigate topics such as long-term forest and fire dynamics or fire-
climate interactions in the southcentral U.S. Competitive candidates for 
this position will have a B.S. degree in forestry or a closely related 
discipline, proficiency in written and oral communication, strong GRE 
scores, and evidence of scholastic success. Prior experience in 
dendrochronology is preferred, but not required. The position will be based 
in Columbia, MO, with field work throughout Texas and Oklahoma. The position 
begins in January 2015.

The successful candidate will receive tuition support and a competitive 
stipend. To apply, please submit the following to Dr. Michael Stambaugh 
(stambau...@missouri.edu):
1)  personal statement of career goals
2)  resume or curriculum vitae
3)  transcripts
4)  GRE scores
5)  contact information for three references

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a candidate 
is selected. 

Dr. Michael Stambaugh
Research Assistant Professor
Department of Forestry
University of Missouri
203C Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building
Columbia MO 65211
Email: stambau...@missouri.edu
Website: http://web.missouri.edu/~stambaughm/

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate research assistantship in soil science at the University of Nevada, Reno

[David Inouye]

The recently established Sullivan Lab of Soils, Biogeochemistry, and 
Ecosystem Ecology at the University of Nevada, Reno seeks a motivated 
graduate student. The successful applicant will study soil science in 
arid ecosystems of the Great Basin, Colorado Plateau, or Sierra 
Nevada in the western United States. Applicants seeking a Masters of 
Science position are preferred but PhD applicants will be considered, 
especially those who already have a Masters' degree. The successful 
applicant will begin the position in January 2015 in time to begin 
the spring semester.


Numerous research opportunities are available depending on the 
applicant's interest but may include study of soil nutrient cycling, 
soil methane oxidation, biogeochemistry and microbial activity in 
primary succession soil chronosequences, and soil processes after 
restoration of degraded or disturbed ecosystems.


Applicants must have a Bachelor's degree in soil science, forestry, 
range, biology, ecology, environmental science, or a closely related 
field. Laboratory and/or field research experience is mandatory, but 
the ideal applicant will also have strong quantitative and scientific 
writing skills. Financial support for the position includes two years 
of a monthly stipend (with possible extensions for PhD applicants), 
support for travel to scientific meetings, analysis, and health 
insurance. Consideration of applications will begin August 15th, 2014 
and remain open until filled.


To be considered for the position, please email a CV, a description 
of research interests, experience, and academic/scientific 
background, as well as names and contact information for three 
references to:  bsulli...@cabnr.unr.edu. Prospective applicants are 
welcome to contact me at this email address with questions prior to 
application submission.


For information on the Sullivan Lab, past research, publications, and 
interests, please see my website at bensullivanecology.weebly.com.


Benjamin Sullivan
Assistant Professor
Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Science
University of Nevada, Reno
bsulli...@cabnr.unr.edu

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship, hydrology/sediment transport, at Louisiana State University

[Yijun Xu]

Applications are invited for a highly motivated student at the PhD or MS level 
to analyze riverine sediment transport and geomorphological change in coastal 
Louisiana. The study is part of an interdisciplinary research, supported by the 
NSF coupled natural-human systems (CNH) program that aims to develop models to 
assess the resilience and sustainability of a CNH coastal system. Therefore, 
the student will work closely with a group of faculty and graduate students 
from natural and social sciences. The position is available to start 
immediately. 

Qualifications: A strong work ethic, strong quantitative skills, good 
communication skills, and the ability to work both as part of a team and 
independently are critical, in addition to being prepared for work under 
variable field conditions and possessing a valid U.S. driver's license. 
Applicants with an MS in hydrology, water resources, or a similar discipline 
(e.g. soil physics, geology, geography, environmental sciences) are preferred. 
Applicants with research experience in any of the following areas: surface 
hydrology, sediment transport, geomorphology, and GIS/landscape modeling will 
be highly competitive.  

To apply: Submit the following via email to Jun Xu (y...@lsu.edu; 
http://www.rnr.lsu.edu/hydrology/): resume, unofficial transcripts  GRE 
scores, a letter describing relevant research experience, and names and contact 
information for three references. Missing any of the above documents will not 
be considered. 

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship

[Guiming Wang]

Dear all,

Below is an announcement for a graduate research assistant position 
available in the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture at 
Mississippi State University.  Sorry for cross posting.

Sincerely,

Guiming Wang, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture
Mississippi State University
Mississippi State, MS 39762
USA
Phone: (662)325-0414

 
Project Title: Movement ecology of American beavers on DOD land in northern 
Alabama 

Project Description: One M.S. Research Assistantship is available in the 
Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture at Mississippi State 
University.  The graduate research assistant will develop and conduct a 
research project to understand 1) the effects of food resource 
distributions on the movement patterns of American beavers at wetland 
scales using telemetry; and 2) the effects of habitat structure and 
suitability on population genetic structure differentiation and gene flow 
of the beavers at landscape scales using microsatellite analysis and 
spatial analysis.  The student will collect field data, conduct DNA and 
microsatellite analysis in labs, write manuscripts for publications, and 
present findings in professional society meetings.  The student will 
closely work with Wildlife Research Biologists from the USDA APHIS National 
Wildlife Research Center.

Qualifications: B.S. degree in wildlife sciences or a related field.  
Desirable qualifications include excellent written and oral communication 
skills.  A minimum 3.0 GPA and GRE scores are required.  Coursework in 
Geographic Information System (GIS) would be beneficial.

Location: Starkville, Mississippi

Starting Date: August 16, 2014

Stipend:  $16,500 per year plus tuition and health benefits

Closing Date: 30 July 2014 or until position is filled

Application: Apply via electronic application within the Office of Graduate 
Studies, Mississippi State University.  Also create a single document 
(e.g., a PDF) containing the following: 1) cover letter describing 
credentials and professional goals; 2) a resume; 3) three references; and 
4) a copy of university transcripts and GRE/TOEFL scores.  The name of the 
file should contain the first and last name of the applicant (e.g., Jane 
Doe.pdf). E-mail this file to Dr. Guiming Wang (gw...@cfr.msstate.edu). 
Reviews of applications begin on July 1, 2014.  

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship: Terrestrial Laser Scanning + grassland fire ecology

[Devan McGranahan]

Description:
We are offering a Graduate Research Assistantship to apply terrestrial laser
scanning (TLS, or ground-based lidar) in the study of grassland fuel
composition and structure. The student will be co-advised by Drs. Devan
McGranahan and Stephanie Day, in the Range Science and Geosciences
departments, respectively, at North Dakota State University in Fargo, North
Dakota. The student will pursue a degree in the Range Science Program in the
NDSU School of Natural Resource Sciences. The student can enter at either
Master of Science or PhD levels based on qualifications and academic
background. 

The student will conduct field experiments to develop TLS technology to
determine grassland biomass and structure, data that will inform
spatially-explicit fuel and fire behavior models. Field work will consist of
developing and conducting TLS sampling schemes, performing conventional
field sampling techniques for calibration, and applying the developed TLS
method to conduct ecological research on grassland fuelbeds in the region. 

Requirements: 
The student will be expected to develop proficiency in working with TLS
equipment and programming post-processing software; therefore, successful
candidates for this position will demonstrate experience in computer
programming, preferably in the R and/or MATLAB environments. Experience with
geographical information systems is preferred. Previous experience with TLS
or lidar technology is beneficial but not required. 

Minimum qualifications: 
- Bachelor’s degree in relevant field of biological, environmental, and/or
computer sciences. 
- Proficiency with computers and computer programming. 
- Demonstrated ability to work both independently and as part of a team. 
- Ability to conduct field work.
- Interest in developing and applying technological solutions for ecological
research.
- Valid driver’s license. 
- Authorization to study and work in the United States. 

Preferred qualifications:
- Experience with statistical computing and geographical information systems.
- Experience with TLS or lidar technology and/or data processing.
- Knowledge of sampling and modeling grassland fuels and fire behavior. 

Start date: 
Flexible, but August 2014 preferred. 

Compensation:
Annual GRA stipend of $14,000 – 16,000 depending on level of academic study.
Full tuition waiver for both MS and PhD students. 

Application process: 
Interested applicants should submit the following preliminary materials by
email to devan.mcgrana...@ndsu.edu: Cover letter/statement of intent, CV or
resume including e-mail and telephone information for 2-3 references,
unofficial transcripts from all post-secondary schooling, and GRE scores.
Selected applicants will be invited to interview via phone and prepare
official application materials for the University. 

About graduate research at NDSU:
North Dakota State University is a leading research university in the
region. The Carnegie Commission on Higher Education ranks NDSU in its top
Doctoral Research University Very High Research Activity category. Not
only is NDSU in the top quarter of U.S. universities in research
expenditures, it is one of the top 108 universities in the country. Located
in the Fargo, ND/Moorhead, MN metropolitan area, NDSU has enjoyed vigorous
growth and has an enrollment of about 14,400 students, with approximately
2,200 graduate students. 

Stable link:
http://www.ndsu.edu/range/faculty_and_staff/devan_allen_mcgranahan_phd/researchemployment_opportunities/

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate research assistantship in rangeland cattle - wildlife interactions

[Boughton,Raoul]

Title: PhD Graduate Assistantship
Agency: University of Florida, Department of Wildlife, Conservation and Ecology.
Duration: Jul-Aug, 2014 - December 31, 2017
Position Description: Graduate Student Research Assistantship (PhD) in Wildlife 
Ecology and Conservation available for a highly motivated cross disciplinary 
individual to fulfill within the newly established Sustainable Rangeland 
Ecosystem Program of Dr Raoul Boughton, at the Range Cattle Research and 
Education Center, University of Florida.  The student's home department will be 
Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation.  The research assistantship duties will be 
based at the Range Cattle Research and Education Center that is 3.5 hrs from 
the main campus of Gainesville, as such personal transportation and travelling 
is a must. A high level of flexibility will be granted to allow for course 
requirements to be completed in Gainesville.  Dissertation research is to be 
developed by the student in collaboration with Dr Boughton and should be 
focused around ecosystem services supporting wildlife that rangelands provide 
and/or wildlife - cattle ranching interactions.
More information on the Sustainable Rangeland Ecosystem Program and the Range 
Cattle Research an Education Station can be found at 
http://rcrec-ona.ifas.ufl.edu/faculty/Boughton.shtml
Qualifications: Applicants must be highly motivated, have a great attitude and 
a strong work ethic. Well-developed oral and written communication skills are 
desired and the ability to work cooperatively within a diverse team and with 
private landowners a necessity. Students with a strong interest in agro-ecology 
and conservation within working rangeland systems are preferred. Excellence in 
academics is expected and an awarded M.S. degree or equivalent in Wildlife, 
Biology, Conservation, Ecology, Agro-Ecology or related field preferred. 
Applicants should possess a valid driver's license and meet the requirements of 
admission to the department.
Minimum requirements for entry to Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Department 
and UF Graduate School must be met 
http://www.wec.ufl.edu/prospective/prospective_letter_grad.php
Information on the Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Department can be found at 
http://www.wec.ufl.edu
Salary/Stipend: $16,000 plus tuition waiver
Application Procedure: Interested applicants should first send a cover letter 
explaining their interest along with CV, and GRE scores to 
rbough...@ufl.edumailto:rbough...@ufl.edu as soon as possible.  Dr Boughton 
will then select an applicant to complete full application procedure 
http://www.wec.ufl.edu/grad/admissions.php
Contact:   Raoul Boughton
Assistant Professor | Rangeland Scientist | Wildlife
 Email: rbough...@ufl.edumailto:rbough...@ufl.edu
 Phone: 863 735 1314

Last Application Date: June 15th 2014



Raoul Boughton
Rangeland Scientist | Wildlife
Assistant Professor
Department of Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation
University of Florida - IFAS | Range Cattle Research and Education Center
3401 Experiment Station | Ona, Florida 33865
Ph: (863) 735 1314 ext. 216
Mobile: (863) 840 3678
Fax: (863) 735 1930
Email: rbough...@ufl.edumailto:rbough...@ufl.edu
Website: http://rcrec-ona.ifas.ufl.edu/faculty/Boughton.shtml

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship- PhD

[Jose, Shibu]

I am looking for a PhD Graduate Research Assistant in the School of Natural 
Resources at the University of Missouri to work on a project examining 
ecological interactions in temperate agroforestry systems.

Qualified applicants should have a M.S. in forestry, ecology, biology, soil 
science or a closely related discipline, a GPA  3.2, and combined verbal and 
quantitative GRE scores  1100.   Position is available in May 2014.  Review of 
applications begins immediately and continues until the position is filled.

Please submit applications including a cover letter describing your interest 
and experience, a resume, and names and contact information of three 
references, copies of transcripts and GRE scores (unofficial at this time are 
acceptable).  All applications should be sent to 
jo...@missouri.edumailto:jo...@missouri.edu


Shibu Jose, Ph.D., H.E. Garrett Endowed Professor and Director
The Center for Agroforestry
Editor-In-Chief, Agroforestry Systems
203 Anheuser Busch Natural Resources Bldg.
University of Missouri
Columbia, MO 65211

Tel: (573) 882-0240
Fax: (573) 882-1977
Email: jo...@missouri.edu
Web: www.centerforagroforestry.org

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship in Silviculture - University of Minnesota

[Linda Nagel]

Graduate Research Assistantship in Silviculture 

The University of Minnesota, Department of Forest Resources is seeking a 
PhD-level graduate student to participate in a research project examining 
the response of various adaptive silviculture strategies for climate change 
in forests in northern Minnesota, with potential for inclusion of additional 
fieldsites across the US. The student will join a team of collaborators from 
the University of Minnesota and the U.S. Forest Service to assess the 
influence of various silvicultural treatments on a core set of response 
variables including species composition, forest health, and productivity of 
both understory and overstory vegetation. The project is being established 
as part of a multi-site, large-scale, long-term silviculture experiment, and 
may include modeling vegetation response to explore potential long-term 
effects. The position is available for Summer 2014 and includes stipend, 
tuition waiver, and health insurance.

The ideal candidate will have a B.S. and/or M.S. in forest ecology, 
forestry, natural resources conservation, environmental science, biology or 
a closely related field, experience or interest in applying vegetation and 
ecosystem simulation models to evaluate long-term management outcomes, as 
well as a strong work ethic, demonstrated quantitative capabilities, a 
record of leadership, and a proven ability to work independently.  The 
application deadline for this position is March 15, 2014.  

Interested candidates should contact:
Dr. Linda Nagel (lmna...@umn.edu, 218-726-6484) 

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship - Historical Ecology at Univ of Wisconsin Madison

[Forrester, Jodi]

Graduate Research Assistant (PhD) Position, Historical ecology. University
of WIsconsin - Madison.  HISTORICAL CONTROLS ON PRE-EUROPEAN VEGETATION AT
the U.S. MIDWEST TENSION ZONE.  

We have an opening for a PhD grad RA on a new project focused on the drivers
and controls of pre-European vegetation transitions across the U.S. Midwest
ecotone or transition zone from prairie-savanna to northern forest. The
proposed research will develop predictive statistical models using
historical, fine-grained data of vegetation from the U.S. GLO Public Land
Office Survey, and available data on soils, climate, and disturbance. While
some fieldwork may be needed, this is primarily a GIS-based historical
ecology project. 

The position will be available for fall 2014.  Salary is approximately $21,
000 per year, with excellent health insurance, plus full tuition remission.
We anticipate four years of funding.

Qualifications: M.S. in ecology, biology, forestry, geography, or related
fields preferred.  Student is expected to have strong interests in ecology,
as well as existing skills in GIS. Skills in spatial analysis and modeling
are desired. Applicants should be able to work independently, but also
cooperatively with other researchers in the lab and on the project, and
collaborators in other labs. 

Application materials: To apply please send the following items in a single
PDF file and assembled in this order:  a full cv, letter of interest,
unofficial transcripts, and names and contacts of three professional
references.  Send to djmla...@wisc.edu. David  Mladenoff, Forest Landscape
Ecology Lab, Dept. of Forest and Wildlife Ecology, University of
Wisconsin-Madison.  Evaluation will begin in early January and the decision
made by early spring or sooner.  http://landscape.forest.wisc.edu/ Posted 06
Jan 2014.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship (Spring 2014): ecohydrology, ecosystem services, the resilience of socio-ecological systems; University of Arizona, Tucson - Watershed Management and Eco

[Mitchell Pavao-Zuckerman]

The student would join an interdisciplinary team working on an NSF funded 
Dynamics of Coupled 
Natural and Human Systems project titled Strengthening  Resilience of Arid 
Region Riparian 
Corridors: Ecohydrology and Decision-Making in the Sonora and San Pedro 
Watersheds   
[http://udallcenter.arizona.edu/wrpg/cnh/]. The project links ecohydrology and 
decision making 
approaches to evaluate the resilience of arid riparian areas to climate change 
and land-use practices. 

We are looking for a PhD or MS candidate with a background and interest in 
working with ecological 
and climate data that informs decision-making linked to ecosystem services and 
the resilience of 
socio-ecological systems. The candidate will conduct field work in semi-arid 
watersheds to help 
develop ecological indicator data sets that link to decision making and to 
monitor ecosystem and 
ecosystem service responses to climate and land-use variability. There will be 
opportunities to work 
with stakeholders in semi-arid watersheds, and to conduct research in a 
bi-national setting. This 
position requires a background in environmental science, ecohydrology, plant 
science, ecosystem 
ecology, environmental statistics, geography or related field. Expertise in 
Geographical Information 
Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and explicit skills in data analysis and 
modeling, and interested in 
working with stakeholders is preferred.   

The student would be enrolled in the Natural Resources Program, Watershed 
Management and 
Ecohydrology focus with the School of Natural Resources and Environment at the 
University of 
Arizona. See program websites for more information on application and program 
details 
(http://snre.arizona.edu/academic/grad/prospective and 
http://www.snr.arizona.edu/academic/grad/gradprograms).  Candidates selected to 
receive the 
assistantship will have a full tuition waiver and receive a stipend and 
benefits according to the 
program, - the student would start Spring term 2014 (mid-January).

[ECOLOG-L] GRADUATE RESEARCH ASSISTANTSHIP (M.S.) in Wildlife Ecology

[David Inouye]

GRADUATE RESEARCH ASSISTANTSHIP (M.S.) in Wildlife Ecology

The School of Agricultural, Forest, and Environmental Sciences and 
the South Carolina Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit at 
Clemson University is seeking candidates for a graduate research 
assistantship (M.Sc) in Wildlife  Fisheries Biology to take the lead 
on a research project designed to better understand the ecological 
impacts and damage caused by invasive feral pigs in a variety of 
habitats throughout South Carolina.  The student will lead an effort 
to quantify feral pig habitat preferences and levels of habitat 
disturbance using a variety of tools such as camera traps, live 
trapping, habitat surveys, and habitat suitability modeling.  While a 
large deal of the research effort will involve fieldwork throughout 
the state, the student should also have strong quantitative and 
analytical research skills necessary for modeling disturbance over 
time and space. The ideal candidate will also have an inquisitive 
mind towards developing novel solutions for mitigating the habitat 
destruction caused by this invasive species. Experience with 
geospatial referencing tools and habitat suitability modeling is a 
plus.  The ultimate goals of this project will be to gain a broader 
understanding of the ecosystem damage invasive species such as hogs 
may have on different habitat types. This work will directly support 
the development of an adaptive management plan for feral hog harvest 
and population management in the state.  The project will focus on 
South Carolina populations but the results of this work will have far 
reaching impacts on invasive species management throughout the 
southeast.   The position will be available beginning in January or 
August of 2014.  Research stipends are approximately $14,000, and a 
full tuition waiver is available.


Applicants should possess an undergraduate degree in Biology, 
Wildlife Ecology, Biostatistics, or related field, a good work ethic, 
and strong quantitative or modeling skills. Experience with 
statistical analyses of ecological data, proficiency in ArcGIS, 
and/or population and occupancy modeling are desired, but not 
required. To be competitive, applicants must have undergraduate and 
graduate GPAs  3.0 and GRE scores above the 60th percentile. 
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. 
Applicants that are selected for a phone interview will be contacted 
directly by Dr. Kate McFadden. Interested applicants should send a 
cover letter outlining their qualifications for the project, copies 
of undergraduate transcripts and GRE scores, and contact information 
for at least 3 references.  Application materials can be sent by 
e-mail and should be saved as a single pdf in the following format: 
Last Name_FeralHogs MS.pdf


 Contact information is:

Dr. Kate McFaden, G20 Lehotsky Hall, Clemson University, Clemson, 
South Carolina, 29634, 864-656-4141, mailto:k...@clemson.eduk...@clemson.edu

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship in Forest Resources at Penn State University

[Aaron Stottlemyer]

A masters level graduate research assistantship is available starting in 
summer 2014 in Penn State’s Department of Ecosystem Science and Management 
(http://ecosystems.psu.edu/) for a highly motivated student to study the 
influence of mycorrhizas and other site factors on oak regeneration 
dynamics in Pennsylvania’s Ridge and Valley Physiographic Province.  Ideal 
candidates will have a B.S. degree in forestry or closely related 
biological discipline, field experience, knowledge of eastern deciduous 
forest vegetation, competitive GRE scores, excellent organizational and 
communication skills, and be able to begin fieldwork in April or May 2014.  
She/he will have opportunities to collaborate with other Penn State 
faculty, federal (US Forest Service) researchers, and Pennsylvania Bureau 
of Forestry managers contributing to this project.  The selected candidate 
will be supervised by Dr. Aaron Stottlemyer 
(http://www.personal.psu.edu/ads175/blogs/PSUD_FEL/) and supported with a 
stipend, tuition remission, housing and transportation during the field 
season.  Inquiries should be sent to Dr. Aaron Stottlemyer (ads...@psu.edu) 
and include a brief description of research interest/experience and career 
goals, CV, unofficial transcript, and GRE scores (if taken).  For more 
information about graduate programs in Forest Resources at Penn State and 
application instructions, see 
http://ecosystems.psu.edu/graduateprograms/forest-resources.





Dr. Aaron D. Stottlemyer

Assistant Professor of Forestry

Penn State University, DuBois

DuBois, Pennsylvania 15801



email: ads...@psu.edu

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship: Dry Forest Restoration

[Charles Halpern]

We invite applications for a Master's level graduate research 
assistantship in forest ecology/restoration in the School of Environmental 
and Forest Sciences at the University of Washington 
(http://www.sefs.washington.edu/).  The assistantship will begin in Autumn 
2014.


The student selected for this position will participate in a study 
exploring the effectiveness of thinning and prescribed burning in meeting 
ecosystem restoration objectives.  The student will play a central role in 
remeasuring and analyzing data from a long-term thinning and burning 
experiment (Mission Creek) in the eastern Cascades of Washington.  This 
project is funded by the Joint Fire Science Program (www.firescience.gov).


We encourage applications from students with strong interests in plant 
community ecology, fire ecology, ecological restoration, or quantitative 
analysis.  The successful student will have:


-  An undergraduate degree in forestry, biology, ecology, natural 
resources management, or a related field
-  Proven ability to conduct ecological field work, with a broad grounding 
in the natural sciences
-  Strong quantitative skills and willingness to learn appropriate 
statistical techniques
-  Experience with field equipment and techniques relevant to the project 
(e.g., map and aerial photo interpretation or use of global positioning 
units)
-  Experience with standard vegetation sampling methods and plant 
identification
-  Competent computer skills including proficiency with word processing, 
spreadsheet, statistical, and database management software

-  Excellent organizational and communication skills
-  Proven ability to set and attain goals, work independently, and give 
acute attention to details and deadlines
-  Ability and willingness to conduct field work under diverse conditions 
that include frequent or extended periods of travel, primitive housing, or 
camping in remote settings

-  Ability to drive a vehicle on and off road

The student will be co-supervised by Drs. Jonathan Bakker 
(http://faculty.washington.edu/jbakker/) and Charlie Halpern 
(http://faculty.washington.edu/chalpern/).  She/he will have opportunities 
to collaborate with post-doctoral and federal (US Forest Service) 
researchers and land managers contributing to this project.


Inquiries should be sent to Drs. Jonathan Bakker (jbak...@uw.edu) or 
Charlie Halpern (chalp...@uw.edu).  Applications should include a CV and a 
statement of research interests that articulates how the applicant meets 
the expectations of this position.


Information about the SEFS graduate program and application materials can 
be found at 
http://www.sefs.washington.edu/academicPrograms/graduate/applicant.shtml

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship - Iowa State Univ.

[Thomas Sappington]

GRADUATE STUDENT POSITION

I am recruiting a graduate student (M.S. or PhD if masters degree is already
in hand) for a research project involving characterization of insect flight
behavior using laboratory flight mill systems (http://www.ent.iastate.edu/).
 I am a Research Entomologist with USDA-Agricultural Research Service, Corn
Insects and Crop Genetics Research Unit, with a courtesy faculty appointment
in the Department of Entomology at Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.  My
laboratory is located on the ISU campus.  

Our group's mission is to study the population ecology, genetics, and
behavior of corn insect pests, and my interests are mainly in the realm of
dispersal, migration, and gene flow.  The graduate student will work with at
least two pest insects.  The western corn rootworm (WCR), Diabrotica
virgifera virgifera, is a chrysomelid beetle and the worst pest of corn in
North America. It also is spreading in Europe as an invasive species.  It
recently has developed resistance in the Midwestern U.S. to a particular
type of transgenic Bt corn, with many implications for farmers, industry,
public-sector scientists, and government regulators. Characterization of
long-distance movement of WCR adults is critical to understanding the
dynamics of resistance evolution and spread of resistance in this insect. 
The grad student's main project would be to investigate and compare flight
behaviors of resistant and wild-type WCR using laboratory flight mills.  In
addition, the western bean cutworm, Striacosta albicosta, is a noctuid moth
pest of corn that has undergone a recent range expansion out of the Great
Plains to the East Coast.  The trigger for the expansion is unknown, and
almost nothing is known about this species' flight capacity and behavior. 
Recent establishment of a laboratory colony will allow flight mill studies.
 It will be a demanding project requiring attention to detail, perseverance
(especially in the beginning when learning to tether insects to the flight
mills), and critical thinking. The information gained for both species will
be of immediate interest to the scientific community and of ultimate benefit
to corn growers.  There will be room for additional side projects as well
depending on the student's interests and talents.

Pending final approval of funding (anticipated), this will be a research
assistantship, including stipend and tuition, for 2.5 – 3 years.  Start
date: as soon as practicable, but preferably no later than mid-August 2013.

If interested, please send to me: 1) a cover letter describing your
background in science, career goals, and research interests; 2) your C.V.;
3) contact information for three references; 4) copy of transcripts; and 5)
GRE scores.  Please send to tom.sapping...@ars.usda.gov .  Screening will
begin immediately, and continue until the position is filled.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship in Ecology

[David Inouye]

Drs. William J. Platt (Professor, Louisiana State University) and 
Kevin M. Robertson (Adjunct Professor, Tall Timbers Research Station, 
Florida) are seeking a student interested in working toward a Ph.D. 
degree in the areas of ecology and conservation biology of pine 
savannas in the southeastern U.S. Coastal Plain. Our areas of 
interest include disturbance ecology (fire, hurricane, anthropogenic) 
and conservation of native longleaf pine savannas. We are especially 
interested in a student with a strong interest in plant community 
ecology, plant identification, and multivariate statistics to focus 
research on potential responses of the highly diverse longleaf pine 
plant community to microsite history, including overstory pine 
structure and associated fuel loads, fire behavior, root competition, 
and soil chemistry. We have ongoing long-term studies of mature 
longleaf pine forests in southern Louisiana and southern Georgia for 
which the recent history of pine stand structure and fire regime are 
well known.


We are offering a one-year research assistantship through Tall 
Timbers Research Station in Tallahassee, Florida for support when 
dissertation research is being established at the Wade Tract 
old-growth longleaf pine savanna preserve in southern Georgia. 
Further support is expected to be available through teaching 
assistantships. The student should have a keen interest in study of 
ecological concepts and a wholistic interest in the ecology of pine 
savanna ecosystems. The student will be based in Dr. Platt's lab in 
the Department of Biological Sciences at Louisiana State University, 
Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Prospective students must formally apply and 
be accepted into a degree program in the Biological Sciences 
Department at LSU 
(https://bl2prd0610.outlook.com/owa/redir.aspx?C=2usQtq3FqUqBr5R_irb9r-oOR_1E488IvwK1MaepIHqJ-CR1OHyxbYXWpuySt9nCCl3dD9_TG4o.URL=http%3a%2f%2fwww.biology.lsu.edu%2fhttp://www.biology.lsu.edu/). 



The Department of Biological Sciences at LSU has strengths in 
ecology, evolution, and systematics 
(http://www.biology.lsu.edu/cos/biosci/http://www.biology.lsu.edu/cos/biosci/). 
Baton Rouge is a cosmopolitan city that is culturally diverse and 
unique, located at the crossroads of the greater New Orleans area and 
Cajun country. It falls withint the proposed North American Coastal 
Plain Biodiversity Hotspot region and is within approximately one 
hour drive of many natural areas, the Gulf coast, and New Orleans. 
Tall Timbers Research Station and Land Conservancy is a non-profit 
organization known as the birthplace of fire ecology since its 
establishment in 1958 
(http://www.talltimbers.org/fireecology.htmlwww.talltimbers.org/fireecology.html). 
Tall Timbers provides research access to thousands of hectares of 
pine savannas and woodlands managed with prescribed fire, including 
the Wade Tract, a proposed Natural Areas Landmark that is one of the 
very few remaining and the most-studied old-growth longleaf pine 
savannas 
(http://www.talltimbers.org/wadetract.htmlhttp://www.talltimbers.org/wadetract.html). 
Tall Timbers is located north of Tallahassee, Florida, in the center 
of one of the nation's top six biodiversity hotspots, and the 
surrounding Red Hills Region has been named one of the Last Great 
Places by The Nature Conservancy. If interested, contact Dr. William 
Platt (mailto:btp...@lsu.edubtp...@lsu.edu) and copy Dr. Kevin 
Robertson (mailto:krobert...@ttrs.orgkrobert...@ttrs.org)

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship for Endangered Species Conservation and Recovery

[Ting, Tih-Fen]

I am recruiting a MS-level graduate student (M.S. in Environmental Science) to 
participate in an on-going research project on Franklin's ground squirrel 
(Poliocitellus franklinii), a state-threatened species in Illinois.  The 
graduate research assistantship should be available for two years with a 
January 7, 2013 start date.  The assistantship will provide tuition and service 
fee waiver, a stipend for the spring and fall semesters, summer salary, and 
research support.
The selected student will be able to pursue a thesis topic related to habitat 
management or habitat connectivity for Franklin's ground squirrel.  The student 
must have a strong work ethic, leadership skills, keen attention to detail, 
ability to follow directions, and ability to supervise a field crew of 
undergraduate research assistants during the field seasons.  Applicants should 
have a background in ecology or environmental science.  Experience or 
coursework in GIS and/or GPS is highly desirable.  Experience with wildlife 
trapping, handling, and PIT-tagging would be plus.
Interested students should email the following to Dr. Tih-Fen Ting at 
tti...@uis.edumailto:tti...@uis.edu as soon as possible.

  1.  Cover letter addressing background, qualifications, and research interest.
  2.  Resume, including contact information for three references.
  3.  Transcripts (unofficial or scanned copy acceptable).
Suitable candidates will also be encouraged to submit a formal application to 
the graduate research assistantship program.  Please do not hesitate to contact 
me at tti...@uis.edumailto:tti...@uis.edu if you have questions.

Tih-Fen Ting
Associate Professor, Department of Environmental Studies
University of Illinois at Springfield
Springfield, IL 62703
(217) 206-7876
tti...@uis.edumailto:tti...@uis.edu

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship (Ph.D.)

[Jason Hubbart]

Ph.D. Graduate Research Assistant: Investigating Carbon and Climate 
Mitigation by Urban Forests
 
The Interdisciplinary Hydrology Laboratory of the University of Missouri, 
in collaboration with Lincoln University, is seeking a Ph.D. graduate 
research assistant (GRA) to conduct independent research investigating 
urban forest carbon (C) sequestration and climate mitigation in a dynamic 
multi-land-use urbanizing watershed of the central U.S. The study takes 
place in the Hinkson Creek Watershed (HCW) encompassing the city of 
Columbia and the University of Missouri. The Interdisciplinary Hydrology 
Laboratory is located in the School of Natural Resources of the University 
of Missouri. The University of Missouri is among the top ten of the 
nation's universities with demonstrated excellence in teaching and research.

This is a four year position beginning when filled. The successful 
applicant will study total C storage and flux above and below ground in at 
least six forested sites along an urbanization gradient and localized 
microclimate and energy flux variability influenced by the presence, 
absence, and density of urban tree canopies. Applicants must possess a 
master’s degree and have completed at least one degree in physical 
hydrology, biogeochemistry, ecology, environmental sciences, water quality, 
or a similar natural resources related field. Experience in C 
biogeochemical cycling and measurement in C pools and fluxes is a plus. 
Strong verbal, written, and computational skills are mandatory. Successful 
applicants will be required to work collaboratively and independently, 
conduct field work under variable weather conditions, and aid in 
installation and maintenance of instruments and monitoring sites. 
Applicants must possess a valid US driver's license and be able to lift and 
carry equipment and tools. 

If interested in applying, please forward by email the following documents: 
transcript, curriculum vitae, recent GRE scores, recent TOEFL scores 
(international students only), cover letter (including academic, research 
and professional goals and interests), and the names and contact 
information of three references to: Dr. Jason Hubbart, Department of 
Forestry, University of Missouri, 203-Q ABNR Bldg, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; 
Tel No. (573) 884-7732; Fax: (573) 882-1979; Email: hubba...@missouri.edu. 
Website: http://web.missouri.edu/~hubbartj/

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship

[Jyotsna Sharma]

Dr. Jyotsna Sharma
Department of Plant and Soil Science
Texas Tech University
253, Plant Science Bldg, 15th St.
Lubbock, Texas 79409; USA
jyotsna.sha...@ttu.edu; 806.742.2637

An Graduate Research Assistant (M.S. or Ph.D.)is needed to investigate field
and molecular mycorrhizal ecology of a federally listed Midwestern orchid
species. The position will begin in January 2013.

Requirements:
1.B.S. and/or M.S. degree in an ecology-based discipline in Plant or
Biological Sciences, or a closely related field.

2.Field work experience in studying plants (auto- or synecology).
Experience with rare plant species, especially orchids, is highly desirable.

3.Laboratory experience with molecular biology techniques. Familiarity
with analyses of data is highly desirable.

4.Keen attention to detail, ability to follow directions, ability to
efficiently conduct field sampling away from Lubbock (if needed) and
molecular biology work in the laboratory, strong organizational and
coordination skills, and ability to communicate (verbal and written)
effectively in English.

5.A strong work ethic, ability to work independently and as a productive
member of a research team, ability to work non-regular hours, as needed.

6.Ability to complete all admission requirements.

Salary and Benefits:
Competitive salary. Assistantships include partial tuition payment, payroll
fringe, and health benefits.

Application:
Please submit to jyotsna.sha...@ttu.edu:

1.A statement of interest describing past experience and future goals.
The applicant should specifically address how their experience, skills, and
goals match the position description and requirements listed above;

2.Curriculum vitae, including names, complete address, phone, and e-mail
for at least three references;

3.Academic transcripts;

4.GRE scores; and

5.TOEFL scores (if applicable)

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate research assistantship at Colorado State University

[Jill Lackett]

We have an opening for a graduate student seeking a Ph.D. in the Graduate
Degree Program in Ecology at Colorado State University starting in January
2013. The successful applicant will:
1) develop sampling and analysis procedures for ground-based estimates of
ungulate population size in conservation areas; 2) develop methods for
estimating the effects of boundary harvest on survival of animals within
conservation areas, and 3) model cross boundary movement of ungulates
using telemetry data. The position is fully funded by the National Park
Service. An annul stipend, full tuition waiver, and expenses for field work
will be provided. Requirements include a master's degree in ecology,
wildlife biology, statistics or related field. Strong quantitative skills
are required. Training in maximum likelihood and / or Bayesian methods for
parameter estimation and GIS skills are desirable. There will be an
opportunity to do a preliminary interview at the Annual Meeting of the
Wildlife Society in Portland Oregon (October 16-18, 2012). To apply, send
letter of interest, curriculum vitae, GRE scores, master's degree
transcripts, and a writing sample (manuscript, report, etc) to
tom.ho...@colostate.edu. U.S. citizenship is not required, but only U.S.
citizens will be eligible for a full tuition waiver.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate research assistantship - wetland or soil ecosystems

[Carol Johnston]

I am seeking a highly motivated and qualified individual wishing to pursue 
an M.S. degree in Biological Sciences at the Department of Natural 
Resource Management, South Dakota State University. A research 
assistantship ($13,034/yr) is available for two years with a January 1, 
2013 start date; graduate assistants receive a 2/3 reduction of tuition 
costs. The successful applicant will conduct research in the area of 
wetland or soil ecosystems, and research topics may include prairie 
pothole wetland hydrology, invasion of non-native Phragmites australis, 
effects of agricultural management on soil carbon fluxes, or GIS analysis 
of wetland ecosystem services.

South Dakota State University is a public institution located in 
Brookings, South Dakota (www.sdstate.edu), with vibrant graduate programs 
in Biological Sciences, the Geographic Information Science Center of 
Excellence, and Wildlife  Fisheries. Applicants should have strong data 
management and computer skills as well as a background in ecology or 
environmental science.

Interested students should send via email a resume with cover letter 
(include GPA and GRE scores) and transcripts (photocopy is acceptable) to 
Dr. Carol Johnston, carol.johns...@sdstate.edu. Suitable candidates will 
then be encouraged to submit a formal application to the graduate school 
at: http://www.sdstate.edu/admissions/graduate/admission-requirements.cfm

**
Carol A. Johnston
Professor, Dept. of Natural Resource Management
Box 2104A
South Dakota State University
Brookings SD 57007-0896
Phone: 605-688-6464
Fax: 605-688-6677
E-mail: carol.johns...@sdstate.edu
http://www.sdstate.edu/nrm/people/carol-johnston.cfm

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship – Plant Pathology-Climate Change

[Art Chappelka]

The School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences at Auburn University 
currently has a graduate assistantship (M.S. $15,540) available in Plant 
Pathology/Climate Change research.  Auburn University assistantships 
include tuition and fee waivers as well as shared funding of health 
insurance.  The starting date for this position is negotiable, but January 
1, 2013 desired. As part of a larger research project the student will 
examine the relationship of future climate scenarios of elevated 
tropospheric ozone and altered rainfall amounts with a plant pathogen in 
altering susceptibility to loblolly pine decline an important disease 
complex in the Southern United States. Minimum qualifications include a 
B.S. degree in Forestry, Plant Pathology, Horticulture, Plant Biology, or 
a related field, and an interest in plant pathology and or climate 
change.  Additional information is available by contacting Dr. Arthur H. 
Chappelka (chap...@auburn.edu) or Dr. Lori Eckhardt (eckh...@auburn.edu) 
in the School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences, Auburn University.  SWFS 
education requirements for graduate school is located at the following 
website: http://www.sfws.auburn.edu/gpo/TestScoresandTranscripts.php . 
Interested students should send a letter of interest, resume, transcripts 
(photocopy is acceptable), and GRE scores if available (photocopy is 
acceptable) to Dr. A.H. Chappelka or Dr. Lori Eckhardt, School of Forestry 
and Wildlife Sciences, 602 Duncan Drive, Auburn, AL  36849-5418.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship, M.S. or Ph.D., in Sustainable Agriculture

[Todd Ontl]

We seek a highly motivated and qualified individual wishing to pursue an M.S. 
or Ph.D. degree in 
sustainable agriculture. The successful applicant will conduct research in the 
areas of ecosystem 
service modeling and agricultural stakeholder engagement. In addition to 
working with Iowa State 
University scientists, the successful applicant will also work with members of 
Environmental 
Defense Fund’s Right Practice – Right Place Project and the Natural Capital 
Project.

Required qualifications include a passion for agriculture, a strong background 
in the environmental 
or social sciences, some previous research experience, and an ability to work 
in a collaborative 
environment. 

Preferred qualifications include strong backgrounds in BOTH the environmental 
AND social 
sciences, some experience with systems science and modeling, work on water, 
strong quantitative 
skills, and demonstrated team skills.

Iowa State University is a large, public institution located in Ames, Iowa 
(www.iastate.edu), with 
many, diverse, and vibrant graduate programs. A beginning Graduate Research 
Assistantship at 
Iowa State University includes a stipend of $19,055 per year, plus benefits. 
Start date is negotiable, 
but early January 2013 is preferred. 

To receive full consideration, submit applications by Oct. 1, 2012; however, 
applications will be 
accepted until the position is filled. Interested individuals should provide 
the following materials: 
(1) letter of interest stating professional goals, research interests, and 
qualifications for the 
position, (2) a resume, (3) transcripts and GRE scores (unofficial copies 
acceptable at present), and 
(4) the names, affiliations, email addresses, and phone  numbers of three 
references.
For further information on the project or application contact Lisa Schulte 
Moore or John Tyndall.

Dr. Lisa Schulte Moore or Dr. John Tyndall 
Natural Resource Ecology  Management Natural Resource Ecology  Management
Iowa State University Iowa State University
339 Science II 339 Science II
Ames, IA 50011 Ames, IA 50011
Phone: 515-294-7339 Phone: 515-294-4912
Email: lschu...@iastate.edu 
Email: jtynd...@iastate.edu
Web: www.nrem.iastate.edu/landscape

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship in Root Ecology – Appl ication of Ground-Penetrating Radar

[Day, Frank P.]

A graduate research assistantship is available starting fall semester 2012 or 
spring semester 2013. The project involves cutting edge application of 
ground-penetrating radar to quantify root biomass and spatial distribution of 
roots. The research will be conducted at the Blackwater Ecologic Preserve in 
Virginia and at two sites in Florida (Kennedy Space Center and the Disney 
Wilderness Preserve). A doctoral student is preferred but a master’s student 
will be considered. Applicants should have strong data management and computer 
skills as well as a background in plant ecology. Successful applicants would 
develop their master’s thesis or doctoral dissertation around the research. The 
financial aid package is $22,000 per year plus full tuition waiver for a 
doctoral student. If interested, submit a resume with cover letter (include GPA 
and GRE scores) to Dr. Frank P. Day, Professor and Eminent Scholar, Department 
of Biological Sciences, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA 23529 
(f...@odu.edumailto:f...@odu.edu). Old Dominion University is an Affirmative 
Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and requires compliance with the Immigration 
Reform and Control Act of 1986

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship at Colorado State University - Ecology

[Lackett,Jill]

Graduate Research Assistantship. We have an opening for a graduate student 
seeking a Ph.D. in the Graduate Degree Program in Ecology at Colorado State 
University starting in December 2012 or May 2013. The successful applicant will 
study trophic and hydrologic controls on willow communities in Yellowstone 
National Park to reveal how the reintroduction of wolves has shaped ecosystem 
processes. The position is fully funded by an LTREB award from the National 
Science Foundation. An annual stipend, full tuition waiver, and housing during 
3-4 months of annual work in the field will be provided. Requirements include a 
master's degree in ecology or related field, strong quantitative skills, and 
the ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing. There will be an 
opportunity to do a preliminary interview at the Annual Meeting of the 
Ecological Society of America in Portland, Oregon (August 4-8, 2012) and at the 
Annual Meeting of the Wildlife Society, also in Portland (October 16-18, 2012). 
Contact Tom Hobbs (tom.ho...@colostate.edu) and David Cooper 
(david.coo...@colostate.edu) to express interest.

*
Jill M. Lackett
Research Associate
Natural Resource Ecology Lab
Colorado State University
970.491.2343 (p)
970.491.1965 (f)
jill.lack...@colostate.edu
NREL homepage:  http://www.nrel.colostate.edu/
 
For group mailings:
Use of this mail list is intended exclusively for internal communication at 
Colorado State University.  Any unauthorized use is prohibited.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship in Belowground Ecology – Application of Ground-Penetrating Radar to Determine Root Carbon Pools and Spatial Patterns

[Day, Frank P.]

A graduate research assistantship is available starting fall semester 2012. The 
project involves cutting edge application of ground-penetrating radar to 
quantify root biomass and spatial distribution. The research will be conducted 
at the Blackwater Ecologic Preserve in Virginia and at two sites in Florida 
(Kennedy Space Center and the Disney Wilderness Preserve). A doctoral student 
is preferred but a master’s student will be considered. Applicants should have 
strong data management and computer skills as well as a solid background in 
plant ecology. Successful applicants would develop their master’s thesis or 
doctoral dissertation around the research. The financial aid package is $22,000 
per year plus full tuition waiver for a doctoral student. If interested, submit 
a resume with cover letter (include GPA and GRE scores) to Dr. Frank P. Day, 
Professor and Eminent Scholar, Department of Biological Sciences, Old Dominion 
University, Norfolk, VA 23529 (f...@odu.edumailto:f...@odu.edu). Old Dominion 
University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and requires 
compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship (Search Still Open) – Cutting Edge Belowground Ecology Research

[Day, Frank P.]

A graduate research assistantship is available starting fall semester 2012. The 
project involves application of ground-penetrating radar to quantify root 
biomass and spatial distribution. The research will be conducted at the 
Blackwater Ecologic Preserve in Virginia and at two sites in Florida (Kennedy 
Space Center and the Disney Wilderness Preserve). A doctoral student is 
preferred but a master’s student will be considered. Strong quantitative and 
instrumentation skills are required. Successful applicants would develop their 
master’s thesis or doctoral dissertation around the research. The financial aid 
package is $22,000 per year plus full tuition waiver for a doctoral student. If 
interested, submit a resume with cover letter (include GPA and GRE scores) to 
Dr. Frank P. Day, Professor and Eminent Scholar, Department of Biological 
Sciences, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA 23529 
(f...@odu.edumailto:f...@odu.edu).  Old Dominion University is an Affirmative 
Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and requires compliance with the Immigration 
Reform and Control Act of 1986.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship – DOE supported resear ch involving ground-penetrating radar and root imaging

[Day, Frank P.]

 A graduate research assistantship is available for 2 years starting fall 
semester 2012. The research will be conducted at the Blackwater Ecologic 
Preserve in Virginia and at two sites in Florida (Kennedy Space Center and the 
Disney Wilderness Preserve). The project involves extensive testing of  
ground-penetrating radar for quantifying root parameters, including biomass and 
spatial distribution. Doctoral students are preferred but master’s candidates 
will be considered. Strong quantitative and instrumentation skills are 
required. Successful applicants would develop their master’s thesis or doctoral 
dissertation around the research. The financial aid package is $22,000 per year 
plus full tuition waiver for a doctoral student. If interested, submit a resume 
with cover letter (include GPA and GRE scores) to Dr. Frank P. Day, Professor 
and Eminent Scholar, Department of Biological Sciences, Old Dominion 
University, Norfolk, VA 23529 (f...@odu.edumailto:f...@odu.edu).  Old 
Dominion University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and 
requires compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986.

Re: [ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship - Oregon State University

[Peterson, James]

MS or PhD Graduate Research Assistantship - Modeling Columbia Spotted Frog 
(Rana luteiventris) population dynamics

Department of Fisheries and Wildlife

Oregon State University, Corvallis OR



Responsibilities: The successful applicant will conduct a two-year research 
project developing decision models for predicting the response of Columbia 
Spotted Frog populations to alternative management actions. The project is a 
cooperative effort involving multiple state and Federal agencies in Utah and 
Nevada focusing on developing an adaptive framework for conserving Columbia 
Spotted Frog populations.

QUALIFICATIONS: The successful applicant should be highly motivated and have a 
B.S. in wildlife, fisheries, ecology, biology, zoology or closely related 
field. I also will give special consideration to students with BS in a 
quantitative or analytical field, such as statistics, and interests in 
ecological applications. Strong communication and interpersonal skills and an 
ability to work in a team situation are required. Field experience, such as 
experience with sampling herpetofauna, also is desirable, but not necessary. 
Minimum academic qualifications include a 1000+ on the GRE's combined verbal 
and quantitative a 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 system). Additional graduate program 
information can be found at:
http://fw.oregonstate.edu/Graduate%20Information/prospective.htm

Salary: Approximately $20,000 per year  plus tuition.

Closing Date: Until filled. Selection will be made by June 2012.

Contact: SEND a cover letter, resume, copies of transcripts, GRE scores, and 
the names and phone numbers of three references to:



Dr. James T. Peterson

Assistant Unit Leader, Associate Professor
USGS Oregon Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit
104 Nash Hall, Oregon State University
Corvallis, Oregon 97331-3803
Phone  541.737.1963

Email: jt.peter...@oregonstate.edumailto:jt.peter...@oregonstate.edu

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship in Interaction Diversity

[Lee Dyer]

 Position: Graduate Research Assistantship in Interaction Diversity and Fire 
Ecology in Longleaf Pine Forests

 We are seeking to recruit a highly motivated student to become part of a team 
of researchers examining the effects of fire on LL Pine forests in the Southern 
US with a focus on quantifying diversity of trophic interactions.  The 
successful applicant for this position should have a Bachelor's or Master's 
degree in ecology or evolution. Quantitative experience (statistical models, 
analytical models, simulations) is a plus. 
 The Research Assistantship would be part of the Ecology, Evolution, and 
Conservation Biology 
 graduate program at the University of Nevada, Reno  (links below).  Work would 
be conducted in 
 the Dyer lab, working closely with Dr. Joe O'Brien at the US Forest Service in 
Georgia as well as collaborators at UNR and across the Americas. 
We prefer to fill the position this coming Fall of 2012; but we are also open 
to a starting date in the subsequent Spring semester (start of 2013).  We can 
offer 5 years of competitive RA support, followed by TA positions. 
To apply, please send the following: (1) CV including names and contact info 
for 3 references; (2) 
GRE scores and GPA from previous programs; (3) cover letter stating your 
interest in pursuing a PhD 
and stating your ability to start in either Fall (2012) or Spring (2013).  Send 
materials to: 
ecod...@gmail.com.

 Relevant links:
 University of Nevada, Reno: http://www.unr.edu/
 Graduate Program in EECB: http://environment.unr.edu/eecb/
 Dyer lab: http://wolfweb.unr.edu/~ldyer/
www.caterpillars.org  The University of Nevada, Reno is located in the western 
Great Basin, close to the east side of the 
 Sierra Nevada mountains.  In my opinion, this is one of the best places to 
live in the world. Reno is a small, dynamic, and diverse city, with 
opportunities for excellent dining and 
community events along the scenic Truckee River that runs through town.  We 
find that quality of 
life here is high, particularly if you are interested in outdoor activities, 
including world class rock climbing, hiking, skiing, kayaking, tubing, 
swimming, photography, and birding. And if you love cool big cities (and 
traffic), the bay area (San Francisco) is just a few hours away by car.
 Position will be open until filled.

Lee Dyer  

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship in Molecular Ecology of Tropical Caterpillars

[Matt Forister]

Position: Graduate Research Assistantship in Molecular Ecology of Tropical 
Caterpillars

We are seeking to recruit a highly motivated student to become part of an 
NSF-funded team of 
researchers working on tri-trophic evolution and ecology in tropical forests.  
The project involves 
molecular phylogenetics and population genetics of a complex and diverse 
lineage of moths in the 
family Geometridae.  The successful applicant for this position should have a 
Master's degree in 
molecular ecology or evolution, and experience generating sequence data from 
non-model 
organisms.  Experience with next-generation sequencing is a plus, but not 
essential.

The Research Assistantship would be part of the Ecology, Evolution, and 
Conservation Biology 
graduate program at the University of Nevada, Reno  (links below).  Work would 
be conducted in 
the Forister lab, working closely with the Dyer and Smilanich labs.  We are 
hoping to fill the 
position this coming Fall of 2012; but we are also open to a starting date in 
the subsequent Spring 
semester (start of 2013).  We can offer 2 years of RA support, followed by TA 
positions; additional 
RA support pending availability of funds.

To apply, please send the following: (1) CV including names and contact info 
for 3 references; (2) 
GRE scores and GPA from Master's program; (3) cover letter stating your 
interest in pursuing a PhD 
and stating your ability to start in either Fall (2012) or Spring (2013).  Send 
materials to: 
foris...@gmail.com.

Relevant links:
University of Nevada, Reno: http://www.unr.edu/
Graduate Program in EECB: http://environment.unr.edu/eecb/
Forister lab: https://sites.google.com/site/greatbasinbuglab/
Smilanich lab: http://www.angelasmilanich.com/
Dyer lab: http://wolfweb.unr.edu/~ldyer/

The University of Nevada, Reno is located in the western Great Basin, close to 
the east side of the 
Sierra Nevada mountains.  Reno is a small and very livable city, with 
opportunities for dining and 
community events along the scenic Truckee River that runs through town.  We 
find that quality of 
life here is high, particularly if you are interested in outdoor activities: 
with a 30-minute drive from 
town you can be hiking or skiing in the alpine overlooking Lake Tahoe.

Position will be open until filled.
Matt Forister
foris...@gmail.com

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship in Forest Ecology

[Hallgren, Steve]

Graduate Research Assistantship in Forest Ecology

I seek a student of ecology to fill a MS GRA position in forest ecology to 
research the consequences of abrupt canopy tree mortality on forest succession 
in upland oak forests.  Old-growth oak stands suffered unusual total canopy 
mortality in 2008 that killed nearly 70 ha of forest in several stands 
surrounded by hundreds of ha of apparently healthy forests.  We have extensive 
measurements of the herbaceous and woody plants in these stands before and 
after canopy death.  Further study and re-measurement is warranted to determine 
effects on forest succession and biogeochemical cycles.  Will these dead stands 
recover to forest or change to grassland?  If the forest recovers, will it have 
the same composition as the original forest.  How will N and C pools and cycles 
change due to the sudden death.  As these stands are frequently 
prescribe-burned we would like to know the effects of fire on recovery from the 
sudden canopy death.  Increasing drought due to global change may lead to more 
abrupt forest death and more openings.  This study will provide new knowledge 
about the consequences of sudden forest canopy death.  The successful candidate 
will have considerable leeway to design a high quality project.

The MS Graduate Research Assistantship (GRA) stipend will be $15,500 per year.  
The GRA will begin in August 2012 and will be renewed for two years provided 
satisfactory progress in the project.  GRAs are offered with tuition waivers 
and health insurance.

Please contact:  Steve Hallgren, Oklahoma State University, 405-744-6805, 
steve.hallg...@okstate.edumailto:steve.hallg...@okstate.edu

Steve Hallgren
022 Ag Hall
Natural Resource Ecology and Management
Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OK 74078
office: 405-744-6805
FAX: 405-744-3530

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship at LSU

[Thomas Dean]

Please let others know about this opportunity

 

Thomas J. Dean

Professor, Quantitative Silviculture

School of Renewable Natural Resources

Louisiana State University AM and Agricultural Center

Baton Rouge, LA 70803

Phone: (225) 578-4216

Cell: (225) 328-0930

Fax: (225) 578-4227

 

http://www.rnr.lsu.edu http://www.rnr.lsu.edu 

 

Research Assistantship for Ph.D. in the School of Renewable Natural
Resources

Louisiana State University

A graduate research assistantship is available for a Ph.D. student
starting this Fall semester (2012) to assist in instigating studies into
the factors affecting the elongation of vegetative buds in various
southern conifers as well as baldcypress and tupelo in southern
Louisiana. Qualified candidates will have training in plant physiology
and be willing to conduct both laboratory and field studies. The annual
stipend is $26,000/yr and includes a full tuition waiver and a
scholarship for student fees. The assistantship is made available by the
Lucuis Gilbert Foundation, and the recipient must meet GPA and GRE
requirements: cumulative graduate GPA of 3.6 and verbal and quantitative
scores of the GRE of at least 310 (1,200 prior to Aug 2011) with at
least 153 and 144 on the verbal and quantitative sections, respectively,
and a analytical writing score of at least 4.0. Performance on the GRE
will be evaluated in combination with GPA, letters of reference, and
other evidence of the applicant's potential success in pursuing a
graduate degree and representation of the Gilbert Foundation ideals. 

Louisiana State University is a comprehensive Research I institution
enrolling more than 28,000 students. The campus is located in south
Louisiana, 60 minutes from New Orleans, close to Louisiana's Cajun
country, and in the heart of the state's abundant forestry, wildlife,
and fisheries resources. The School of Renewable Natural Resources has
30 teaching, research, and extension faculty, which includes the US
Geological Survey's Louisiana Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research
Unit.

For more information about graduate studies in the School of Renewable
Natural Resources you are encouraged to visit the School's web page
(http://www.rnr.lsu.edu) and the Graduate School web page
(http://gradlsu.gs.lsu.edu/). Interested applicants should send a CV, a
copy of GRE scores, graduate and undergraduate transcripts, and contact
information for references to

 

Dr. Thomas Dean, Professor 

227 Renewable Natural Resources

Louisiana State University

Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70803

fwd...@lsu.edu mailto:fwd...@lsu.edu 

(225) 578-4216

 

 

 

 

 

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship in social sciences and sustainable/bio-energy, UW-Madison

[Sara Rodock]

AVAILABLE: Graduate Research Assistantship in social sciences and
sustainable/bio-energy

We seek a motivated PhD or MS student to pursue research in the social
sciences related to bio- and sustainable energy. This project will
investigate public perceptions and values associated with emerging
sustainable energy platforms across Wisconsin. It also will engage the
public in dialogue about those  values and preferences toward helping
communities and others better plan their energy future.

Salary is $20,400 per annum; health coverage and a tuition waiver are
provided. Contingent on finalized funding, this is a three-year funded
project beginning in *Fall 2012*.

Expected duties include…

   - Plan and conduct a study of public perceptions and values toward
   bioenergy and other alternatives using appropriate social/political
   theories and quantitative and/or qualitative methods.
   - Prepare manuscripts for publication in scholarly journals and
   communicate findings through presentations to scientific and lay audiences.
   - Substantially contribute to the design and delivery of extension
   programs that work with government actors and energy stakeholders to
   understand and apply research findings.

*Qualifications*

   - Completed BS/BA is required; Master's degree is preferred; at least
   one degree should be in a relevant field.
   - Strong communication (writing and verbal) and analytical abilities
   - Ability to work independently and as part of a team
   - Ability to communicate with diverse study participants, stakeholders,
   partners, and the scientific community
   - Overnight travel (reimbursed by the project) is expected. A valid
   driver's license and clearance by the University's Office of Risk
   Management are required.

*Application process*

Applications will be reviewed upon receipt and review will continue until
candidates are chosen. Applications received before *Feb 1, 2012* are
guaranteed consideration. The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an equal
opportunity-affirmative action employer. We promote excellence through
diversity and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.

Interested applicants are asked to e-mail the following documents listed
below to our Student Services Coordinator Sara Rodock
(rodock-at-wisc-dot-edu) (in *ONE PDF* file please). Please specify in your
letter when you would be available to start.

Required Documents:

   1. The “Forest and Wildlife Ecology; University of Wisconsin-Madison
   Graduate Application Cover Sheet” which can be found at:
   http://www.fwe.wisc.edu/documents/fwe_cover_sheet_rickenbach.doc
   2. Cover letter outlining research interests, academic and professional
   backgrounds
   3. Resume/CV
   4. Copies of transcripts (unofficial copies acceptable at this point)
   5. GRE scores if available
   6. Reprints if available
   7. Names and contact addresses of three references

*OR*, if you have already completed an application to a UW-Madison graduate
program for Fall 2012, please indicate this on the cover sheet in the space
provided. We can obtain your materials from that program if you would
prefer.

If you have questions about this project, please contact Mark
Rickenbachhttp://notcountingtrees.fwe.wisc.edu/?q=node/17
.

http://notcountingtrees.fwe.wisc.edu/?q=node/146

[ECOLOG-L] graduate research assistantship in soil microbial ecology available in UNL

[Zhanbei Liang]

Dear Ecolog-L, please help to post or send around this announcement:
The Soil Microbial Ecology Group at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is
seeking a highly motivated M.S. or Ph.D. student to further our
understanding of the arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis to the phosphorus
nutrition of maize and soybean grown at high yield. To complement our
current field research, the student will develop greenhouse based trials to
address specific hypotheses related to plant P transporter activity under
various abiotic stressors of relevance to high yielding agricultural
systems in the face of climate change. Applicants require a BS degree or MS
degree in biology, biochemistry, soil science, agronomy or related
discipline.  Preference will be given to students with a strong
biochemistry/molecular biology background.


Interested parties should send a statement of research interest, resume,
unofficial transcripts  3 references via email to Dr. Rhae Drijber,
Department of Agronomy  Horticulture, University of Nebraska-Lincoln,
Lincoln, NE 68583-0915. rdrijb...@unl.edu, 402-472-0770. Selected
applicants will be contacted to submit a formal application.

Qualifications: B.S. or M.S. degree with
appropriate academic credentials.  The qualifying degree must be completed
before the GRA start date.



Current Stipend:  Graduate Research
Assistantship Stipend:

  M.S.
Student:   Annual Basis - $21,492Monthly Basis - $1,791

  Ph.D.
Student:  Annual Basis - $23,148Monthly Basis - $1,929



Tuition Waiver:   A tuition waiver of up to 12
credit hours per semester and 12 credit hours during summer sessions is
provided with the GRA..



Health Insurance:   Students on assistantships are
provided health insurance at a reduced rate.



GRA Availability:   M.S. or Ph.D.

Application:  Formal application
(including GRE) for graduate studies is required. Follow the admission
instructions at: http://www.unl.edu/gradstudies/(Note:   The official
transcripts must be forwarded directly to the on-line address, but the
three letters of recommendation should be sent to the below address.




   Graduate
Chair


   Department
of Agronomy  Horticulture


   University
of Nebraska-Lincoln

  PO
Box 830914


   Lincoln,
NE 68583-0914


Phone: 402-472-1560


FAX:402-472-7904


E-Mail:   agro_hort_gradch...@unl.edu

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship in Fire Ecology

[Hallgren, Steve]

Graduate Research Assistantship in Fire Ecology

I seek a MS student to research the effects of prescribed burning on ecosystem 
services of oak forests and savannas of south-central USA.  The ecotone between 
the eastern forest and southern Great Plains has been subjected to 
anthropogenic burning for thousands of years.  Because of recent changes in the 
fire regime there is growing interest in using prescribed burning to manage 
forests, savannas and grasslands for maintenance and enhancement their 
ecosystem services.  A MS student is sought to conduct independent research on 
prescribed burning effects on ecosystem structure and function.  The research 
will be done within the context of a larger DOD project concerning how to 
manage the carbon footprint of forests and savannas.

The MS Graduate Research Assistantship (GRA) stipend will be $15,500 per year.  
The GRA will begin in mid-May 2012 and will be renewed for two years provided 
satisfactory progress in the project.  GRAs are offered with tuition waivers.
Please contact:  Steve Hallgren, Oklahoma State University, 405-744-6805, 
steve.hallg...@okstate.edumailto:steve.hallg...@okstate.edu

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship Available - Ecohydrology/Ecosystem Sciences

[Chris Zou]

Funding is available for a graduate research assistantship in ecohydrology
and ecosystem sciences in the Department of Natural Resource Ecology and
Management (NREM) at Oklahoma State University. The current research in the
lab focuses on the ecohydrological interactions among the
anthropogenic-induced changes and the hydrologic processes at different
spatial and temporal scales in the mixed and tallgrass prairie and
grassland-forest ecotone. Student is welcome to develop his/her own research
idea around this research theme. This position can be filled at M.S or Ph.D.
level.
Applicants should have completed at least one degree in soil and water,
plant ecology, hydrology, natural resources, environmental sciences or a
related field. Experience in soil water and carbon, isotope technology,
instream flow analysis, GIS, or modeling are a plus. Strong verbal, written,
and computational skills are essential. 

The student will enroll in an M.S. or Ph.D program at OSU starting 2012
spring semester. The stipend will be $15,500/year at M.S. level and
$17,500/year at the Ph.D. level and will be renewed after each year based on
satisfactory progress. Benefits include tuition waiver and health insurance. 

For more information, please contact: Dr. Chris Zou at chris@okstate.edu
or visit the lab website: http://nrem.okstate.edu/Ecohydrology. A complete
application includes the following: personal statement, three letters of
reference, curriculum vitae, official transcripts of all college level
study, GRE scores and a completed OSU Graduate College application.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship - Climate change estuarine ecology

[Michael Wetz]

I am seeking a motivated student to fill a graduate assistantship at the 
Ph.D. level in the Marine Biology Program at Texas AM University-Corpus 
Christi (http://marinebiology.tamucc.edu/). The position is available 
beginning in August 2011, but applicants who wish to enter in January 2012 
will also be considered. Current lab research focuses on understanding the 
ecological mechanisms controlling estuarine/coastal phytoplankton blooms, 
planktonic food web interactions, and effects of climatic and 
anthropogenic change on coastal ecosystems. Ample resources are available 
for field sampling, experimental (mesocosm  laboratory) approaches, and 
or synthesis/modeling of existing data. The student will be housed at the 
Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies 
(http://harteresearchinstitute.org/).  

Interested students should preferably hold a M.S. degree in ecology, 
marine science/oceanography, or a related field and possess strong 
quantitative skills. Potential applicants with only a B.S. degree should 
have at least 2 years of research experience in an area related to 
plankton or estuarine ecology and evidence of strong writing and 
presentation skills. Experience with GIS and/or spatial analysis will be 
viewed positively.

The graduate assistantship will have an excellent stipend relative to the 
cost-of-living. To be considered for the position, please email me, Dr. 
Mike Wetz at michael.w...@tamucc.edu. Along with a letter of interest, 
please send your C.V., unofficial transcripts and GRE scores. For more 
information on my laboratory and research interests, please see: 
http://sci.tamucc.edu/~mwetz/. Screening of applications will begin on May 
28th, 2011, but the position will remain open beyond this date until 
filled.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship in Integrated Sustainability Assessment of Forest Based Biofuels Supply Chain

[Anthony Halog]

Graduate Research Assistantship in Integrated Sustainability Assessment of
Forest Based Biofuels Supply Chain

Dear Colleagues and Students,

Please forward this Graduate Research Assistantship (GRA) opportunity to
your colleagues and students who are interested to pursue graduate studies
and research at the University of Maine, USA.  This is open to those who are
interested to pursue a PhD in Ecology and Environmental Science or PhD in
Forest Resources. This GRA is only open to potential applicants who can
obtain admission to the Graduate School of University of Maine, USA.

The applicant should be interested to pursue graduate studies related to
environmental life cycle assessment, value/supply chain optimization, green
forest products, sustainability assessment of forest based products,
biofuels and bioenergy. The successful applicant should have an academic
background in any of the following disciplines (i.e. industrial and systems
engineering, industrial ecology/sustainable systems, computer science,
chemical engineering, operations management/management science/information
systems, applied mathematics, operations research,
biophysical/environmental/resource/energy/ecological/computational
economics, engineering systems, environmental engineering,
mathematical/computational biology, bioinformatics) with good academic
standing.  He/she should have previous training and preferably have
experience in database development, computational and systems modeling,
system dynamics, agent based modeling, complexity science. He or she should
develop passion in industrial ecology, life cycle assessment and integrated
sustainability assessment.

A background in LCA, materials flow analysis (MFA), substance flow analysis
(SFA) or other industrial ecology methods is not required, but applicant
should be willing to learn the concepts/principles to pursue the challenging
research in sustainability science and engineering. Applicant should have
strong analytical and database skills, knowledge of basic statistics and
probability and be willing to learn new software packages (e.g. OPENLCA,
CMLCA, STELLA, POWERSIM, Netlogo, Starlogo, MATLAB). It is also desirable
that he/she has taken or will take a course in system dynamics, agent based
modeling, genetic algorithm, evolutionary programming and other complexity
science methods and tools.

He/she is passionate to pursue interdisciplinary, transdisciplinary and
cross-disciplinary research projects and should be able to work alone or in
team environment. This interdisciplinary research investigates the economic,
social and environmental impacts of forest biorefinery (e.g. fuels, energy,
power and other products).  This research involves intensive data collection
in close collaboration with industries, government agencies, and the other
departments at the University of Maine.We are interested to investigate and
understand the coupling of human and natural systems to solve our pressing
societal concerns.
The successful applicant will also be involved in writing grant proposals
and journal articles.

Further information regarding research interests or topics and admission
information can be accessed at
http://forest.umaine.edu/faculty-staff/directory/anthony-halog/

If you are not educated in English medium of instruction, in addition to
Graduate Record Examination (GRE) results, you should also have TOEFL (Test
of English as Foreign Language) or IELTS results for admission purposes.

If you think you have the right applications for this research
assistantship, please submit an application letter addressing how you meet
the qualifications and a detailed CV (including references) to Prof. Anthony
Halog at anthony.ha...@maine.edu. Please submit your application by May 15,
2011.

This research assistantship is contingent upon the approval of release of
grant funds.

-- 
Anthony Halog, PhD, MBA
Certified Life Cycle Assessment Professional
Research Group for Industrial Ecology, LCA and Systems Sustainability
(IELCASS)
University of Maine, 5755 Nutting Hall
Orono, Maine 04469-5775
Tel: +1-207-581-2944
Email: anthony.ha...@maine.edu
Website: http://ielcass.tripod.com/ilss/

“Understand the Implications of our Personal Actions to Global Awareness.
Or, Translate our One Global  Awareness into Respective Personal Actions”  -
Anthony Halog

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship: Temporal dynamics of fragmentation impacts on Neotropical bats

[Christoph Meyer]

Applications are invited to fill a graduate research position currently 
available in the Center for 
Environmental Biology, University of Lisbon, Portugal (http://cba.fc.ul.pt). 
The student will 
participate in a collaborative project funded by the Portuguese Science 
Foundation (FCT) to 
investigate the temporal dynamics of fragmentation impacts on Neotropical bats. 
Field research 
will be conducted at the Biological Dynamics of Forest Fragments Project 
(BDFFP, 
http://pdbff.inpa.gov.br) near Manaus, Brazil, the world’s largest and 
longest-running 
experimental study of habitat fragmentation. Based on baseline data from a 
previous study 
conducted at the BDFFP, this comparative follow-up study aims at providing 
insights into the 
longer-term dynamics of fragmentation effects on Neotropical bats. 
Interested students should hold a M.S. degree in ecology, conservation biology, 
environmental 
science, or a related field, and have a keen interest in community ecology and 
fragmentation 
research. Preference will be given to students wishing to pursue a PhD and to 
applicants with 
previous field experience in the tropics and/or working with bats. Candidates 
should have strong 
English writing skills and a demonstrated aptitude in data analysis and 
statistical modeling. 
Proficiency in a statistical software package (preferably R) and an interest in 
learning novel 
analytical approaches is a definite plus. The project involves extensive 
fieldwork in Brazil and the 
ability to work long hours at night under harsh field conditions is essential, 
as is the ability to work 
well in a team. The ability to communicate in Portuguese is desirable. The 
Assistantship includes a 
stipend, renewable each year for up to 3 years, health insurance, as well as 
research and 
conference travel support.
Interested applicants should email a cover letter outlining their interests and 
experience, a CV, 
transcripts, as well as contact information for three references to Dr. 
Christoph Meyer 
(cme...@fc.ul.pt). The expected start date is April 2011 (or as soon as 
possible thereafter). 
Applications will be considered until March 7th 2011.



Dr. Christoph Meyer
Centro de Biologia Ambiental
Departamento de Biologia Animal
Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa
1749-016 Lisboa
Portugal
Email: cme...@fc.ul.pt 
http://cba.fc.ul.pt/members/christoph_meyer.php

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship - Estuarine Ecology

[Michael Wetz]

I am seeking a motivated student to fill a graduate assistantship at the 
Ph.D. level in the Coastal  Marine System Science Program at Texas AM 
University-Corpus Christi (http://pens.tamucc.edu/cmss/). The position is 
available beginning in Fall, 2011.  Student’s dissertation will focus on 
the effects of variable freshwater delivery, resulting from extreme 
climatic events such as drought, on estuarine plankton production and 
trophic dynamics.  The University is affiliated with the Harte Research 
Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies (http://harteresearchinstitute.org/), 
which is where the student will be housed.  

Interested students should preferably hold a M.S. degree in ecology, 
marine science/oceanography, or a related field and possess strong 
quantitative skills. Potential applicants holding a B.S. degree should 
have at least 2 years of research experience in an area related to 
plankton or estuarine ecology.  

The graduate assistantship will have an excellent stipend relative to the 
cost-of-living.  Cost-of-living in Corpus Christi, Texas, is inexpensive 
and ample opportunities exist for cultural/artistic and outdoor 
activities.  San Antonio is approximately 2 hours to the northwest, Austin 
3 hours to the northwest, and Houston 3 hours to the northeast.  

I am looking to fill this position rather quickly, so to be considered for 
the position, please email me, Dr. Mike Wetz at michael.w...@tamucc.edu, 
as soon as possible. Along with a letter of interest, please send your 
C.V., unofficial transcripts and GRE scores.  For more information on my 
laboratory and research interests, please see:  
http://sci.tamucc.edu/~mwetz/

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship in plant-insect interactions

[Steven Ralph]

Applications are invited for graduate student positions (Ph.D. or M.Sc. 
level) to study plant-insect interactions in the laboratory of Dr. Steven 
Ralph (www.und.edu/instruct/sralph/index.html) at the University of North 
Dakota (UND). A Graduate Research Assistantship is available immediately 
to investigate the molecular basis for resistance to insect pests in 
poplar trees using a forward genetics strategy. This project is funded by 
a new three year grant from the National Science Foundation. One of the 
most successful approaches to identify genes responsible for variation in 
a trait of interest is to produce mutants that are then screened for 
alterations in such traits. Our previous research identified several dozen 
activation tagged mutant poplar lines that are resistant to feeding by 
defoliating insect larvae. In this project, the modified gene in these 
insect resistant (IR) lines will be identified and functionally 
characterized. The roles these genes play in mediating IR will be 
systematically examined in poplar through both gene knock-down and over-
expression studies. Furthermore, mutant plants will be subject to thorough 
phenotypic characterization that includes evaluation of global changes in 
gene expression and measurement of insect feeding performance and larval 
development. It is expected that these studies will provide new insight 
into the genes and pathways that enhance resistance to feeding insects. 
Identification of specific IR genes will facilitate breeding of improved 
tree varieties in the future. The successful candidate will receive 
training in plant tissue culture, plant transformation, insect 
feeding/development bioassays, gene cloning and heterologous expression, 
bioinformatics, microarrays, and real-time PCR among other techniques. 
This project involves collaboration with researchers at North Dakota State 
University and the University of Florida and will require periodic travel 
to both institutions. 

Qualifications: Successful candidates should have a strong interest in 
research areas such as ecological and functional genomics, forest tree 
biology, plant-insect interactions, biochemistry and molecular biology. 
Candidates should possess good written and verbal English skills, be 
capable of working independently, and have demonstrated the ability to 
work as part of an interactive group. Successful candidates will be 
invited to submit a formal application for admission to the graduate 
program at UND (deadline February 15, 2011; 
www.und.edu/dept/biology/biology_graduate_program.htm). 

Stipend: The Graduate Research Assistantship starts at $18,000 (M.Sc.) or 
$21,000 (Ph.D.) per year and includes medical health insurance and a full 
tuition waiver. 

How to apply: Please supply a cover letter stating your interests, a CV 
describing your education and skills, undergraduate transcripts 
(unofficial is acceptable), and contact information for three referees. 
Send applications to Dr. Steven G. Ralph, Assistant Professor, Dept. of 
Biology, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota, 58202-
9019, email steven.ra...@und.nodak.edu, phone: 701-777-4673. 

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship Organic Agriculture Agroecology

[Greta Gramig]

One graduate research assistantship is available in the area of weed biology
and ecology to pursue a M.S. in Plant Sciences at North Dakota State
University in Fargo, ND.  As one facet of his or her research program, the
graduate student will conduct field experiments to assess the competitive
ability of field pea varieties against weeds in an organically-managed
cropping system. This research will require travel to and overnight stays in
Dickinson, ND or Carrington, ND. Additional possible topics of study include
biology and ecology of weed seed predation in agricultural systems,
biological control of invasive weeds in rangeland and wild lands, and
effects of management and cropping systems on weed population dynamics.  

The graduate research assistant will conduct field/greenhouse/lab studies,
collect data, analyze research results, prepare reports, write journal
articles, and prepare a thesis/dissertation.  This assistantship will
provide a monthly stipend ($17,000 annually) and a full tuition waiver.  The
field research projects will begin in Spring of 2011. 

Prospective students should hold a Bachelor’s degree in plant sciences,
agronomy, biology, ecology, or other related field.  Desired qualifications
include a strong quantitative/ statistical background, excellent oral and
written communication skills, field research experience, and an interest in
ecologically-based weed management and organic crop production systems. 
Candidates must also meet the admission requirements of NDSU's Graduate
School and the Department of Plant Sciences.  Applications must be made
on-line through the NDSU Graduate School at http://www.ndsu.edu/gradschool/.
 Inquiries should be addressed to:

Dr. Greta Gramig, Assistant Professor
NDSU Plant Sciences 
166 Loftsgard Hall 
North Bolley Drive 
Fargo, ND 58102
Office phone: 701-231-8149
Email: greta.gra...@ndsu.edu

THE UNIVERSITY 
North Dakota State University is enjoying a remarkable period of growth and
success. Located on the state's eastern border in Fargo, North Dakota's
largest city, NDSU is the state's Morrill Act land-grant institution. 
Recognized as an engaged university and considered a leader among its peers,
NDSU has set numerous enrollment records in recent years. With more than
13,200 students, NDSU encompasses a broad spectrum of curricular offerings,
scholarly activity and service. The university strives to be an innovator in
information systems, technology transfer, economic development and lifelong
learning. NDSU also is home to the state's first full NCAA Division I
athletic program.
Innovative teaching and learning are conducted in nine academic units: the
Colleges of Agriculture, Food Systems and Natural Resources; Arts,
Humanities and Social Sciences; Business Administration; Engineering and
Architecture; Human Development and Education; Pharmacy; Science and
Mathematics; University Studies; and the Graduate School. NDSU has 42
doctoral and professional doctorate programs, 59 master's degree programs,
one specialist degree, three professional degree and 102 baccalaureate majors. 
NDSU researchers are leading major initiatives in such areas as
nanotechnology, microelectronics, polymers, food safety and materials
science. In a partnership with Alien Technology Inc., NDSU's Research and
Technology Park will soon be home to the world's first mass scale Radio
Frequency Identification tag research and production facility. 
The North Dakota Agricultural Experiment Station and NDSU Extension Service
are integral parts of the university. 
One of the university's latest additions is the new 75,800-square foot,
five-story NDSU Downtown, which provides a cutting-edge facility for art,
architecture and landscape architecture students. A $10 million project
renovated the century-old building to include studios, classrooms, a wood
shop, digital media room, gallery and an outdoor sculpture area.
NDSU employs almost 821 ranked faculty and lecturers, about 250 extension
educators and experiment station researchers, and more than 700 graduate
assistants and fellows. In total, the university has nearly 5,878 full-time
and part-time employees across the state. 
NDSU, which is one of two major research universities in an 11-institution
state university system, is striving to substantially increase the number of
international students enrolled at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
NDSU also serves people across the state through continuing education and
extension programs. NDSU participates in the Tri-College University
consortium with neighboring Minnesota State University Moorhead and
Concordia College. 

THE COMMUNITY 
Named one of the most desirable places in the country to live by Money
magazine, Fargo is quickly earning a reputation as a great place to live.
Located in the rich farmlands of the Red River Valley, the Fargo-Moorhead
community has many qualities that contribute to this reputation, including
highly-respected educational opportunities K-12 through 

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate research assistantship in morphological evolution, biogeography and community ecology of New World bats

[Richard Stevens]

Graduate Research Assistant

A Graduate Research Assistant is needed to assist in a NSF-funded study
examining the morphological evolution, biogeography and community
ecology of New World bats.  The applicant would matriculate at the Ph.D.
level.  It is anticipated that the appointment would start in the fall
semester of 2011, however flexibility exists based on qualifications.
Responsibilities will include fieldwork and specimen collection,
digitizing and capturing landmarks and subsequently analyzing
morphometric data on bats.  Remaining time will be spent pursuing
scholarly activities, conducting lab related work, as well as analyzing
and publishing results.  Ability to use GIS as well as independently
perform a wide variety of univariate and multivariate statistical
analyses, and design and implement statistical tests based on
permutation, bootstrap and randomization is a plus.  A strong desire and
ability to learn these quickly is requisite.  Interested persons should
apply directly to the graduate program in Biological Sciences at LSU and
also send a vitae, GPA,  GRE and TOEFL scores as well as three letters
of recommendation to:  Dr. Richard D. Stevens, 202 Life Sciences Bldg.,
Department of Biological Sciences, Louisiana State University, Baton
Rouge, LA 70803, e-mail:  rstev...@lsu.edu.  Applications will be
considered until the position is filled, at the latest by May 2011.  

***
Richard D. Stevens
Assistant Professor
Department of Biological Sciences
Louisiana State University
Baton Rouge, LA 70803

(225) 578-0224--Office
(225) 578-4284--Lab
(225) 578-2597--Fax

Check out my webpage at:
http://www.biology.lsu.edu/faculty_listings/fac_pages/rstevens.html

**

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship - Forest Entomology at MS State Univ - Introduced insects

[Gary N. Ervin]

Please note the contact on the following announcement is:
Dr. John Riggins; jrigg...@entomology.msstate.edu
http://www.entomology.msstate.edu/people/faculty/riggins.php


The Forest Entomology Laboratory in the Department of Entomologyand
Plant Pathology at Mississippi State University announces a
M.S.assistantship in forest entomology.  Theresearch project will
utilize remote sensing and GIS to model potential risk ofspread of an
introduced forest pest, the European woodwasp,  in southern pine
species.  Additionally, the student would have opportunityto study
another introduced forest pest, the redbay ambrosia beetle, by using
remotesensing to detect forest change associated with the beetle and the
laurel wilt pathogenit carries.  Field studies of thebehavior and
ecology of redbay ambrosia beetle, laurel wilt disease, andinteractions
with native flora and fauna will also be encouraged.  Both of these
projects are of interest at thenational level, and will provide the
student with great opportunities to workwith scientists across the
Southeast Region. Generous stipends (~$22K/yr) and tuition waivers will
be awarded tosuccessful applicants.  The positionstarts in January,
2011.
The forest entomology laboratory at Mississippi State Universityhas four
broad researchgoals: 1) broaden applied scientificknowledge regarding
the best integrated pest management of native (e.g.southern pine bark
beetle guild) and introduced forest insect pests (e.g. redbayambrosia
beetle); 2) expand basicscientific knowledge about the biology,
behavior, ecological roles, andbiodiversity of non-pest forest insects;
3) broaden scientific understanding ofthe “disturbance ecology” of
forest insects (both pests and non-pests) inresponse to various
anthropogenic and environmental disturbances (e.g. climaticdisturbances,
habitat restoration, pollution, etc…); 4) develop and utilizeGeographic
Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing techniques to
enhancedetection, monitoring, prediction, and ecological modeling of the
forest insectsystems.  The successful applicantwill receive training in
GIS/Remote Sensing applications, Forest Entomology, andStatistics, as
well as gaining experience sampling insects and studying them inthe
field.
Mississippi State University is the flagship researchinstitution in the
state of Mississippi, with long-standing strengths inAgriculture and
Natural Resources.  Withan enrollment representing all 82 Mississippi
counties, 50 states and over 75foreign countries, Mississippi State
truly is an outstanding choice fortomorrow's scholars and leaders.
Interested individuals should contact Dr. John Riggins andprovide a
C.V., including GRE scores, TOEFL scores (If not a citizen of theU.S.),
GPA, and a list of references. 
 
Dr. John Riggins
Assistant Professor of Forest Entomology 
Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology
Mississippi State University
Box 9775
Mississippi State, MS 39762
jrigg...@entomology.msstate.edu

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship- Estuarine Ecology

[Michael Wetz]

I am seeking a motivated student to fill a graduate assistantship at the 
M.S. or Ph.D. level in the Marine Biology Program at Texas AM University-
Corpus Christi (http://marinebiology.tamucc.edu/).  The position is 
available beginning in either late August, 2010, or January 1, 2011.  The 
research project will focus on the role of top-down (i.e., grazing) vs. 
bottom-up (i.e., light, nutrients) environmental factors in determining 
estuarine phytoplankton bloom potentials and community composition.  My 
lab conducts research on estuarine/coastal phytoplankton ecology, nutrient 
 organic matter cycling in the coastal zone, food-web dynamics, and 
impacts of anthropogenic  climate change on coastal ecosystems.  TAMU-CC 
is affiliated with the Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies 
(http://harteresearchinstitute.org/), which is where our research labs are 
located.  This study will require the student to spend some time during 
spring and summer of the next few years at a field station in Morehead 
City, NC.  I would also envision a spin-off of this work to develop in 
coastal Texas waters.

Candidates should have a background in ecology or marine science and 
should possess strong quantitative skills.  The assistantship will be 
grant-supported and has an excellent stipend relative to the cost-of-
living.  Cost-of-living in Corpus Christi, Texas, is inexpensive and ample 
opportunities exist for cultural/artistic and outdoor activities.  San 
Antonio is approximately 2 hours to the northwest, Austin 3 hours to the 
northwest, and Houston 3 hours to the northeast.  

Interested candidates should email me, Dr. Mike Wetz at mw...@fsu.edu, by 
July 24th, 2010. Please include a letter of interest, C.V., unofficial 
transcripts and GRE scores.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship: Climate Forcing of Estuarine Phytoplankton Productivity

[Michael Wetz]

I am seeking a motivated student to fill a graduate assistantship at the 
Ph.D. level in the Coastal  Marine System Science Program at Texas AM 
University-Corpus Christi (http://pens.tamucc.edu/cmss/). The position is 
available beginning in Fall, 2010. The research project will focus on the 
impact of hydrologic variability, especially droughts, on phytoplankton 
productivity and biogeochemical cycles in estuaries. My lab conducts 
research on estuarine/coastal phytoplankton ecology, nutrient  organic 
matter cycling in the coastal zone, food-web dynamics, and anthropogenic  
climate change impacts on estuarine/coastal ecosystem function.

Interested students should have a background in ecology, marine 
science/oceanography, or aquatic environmental science and possess strong 
quantitative skills. Candidates with experience in GIS and/or spatial 
ecology/spatial analysis will be viewed favorably. The assistantship will 
have an excellent stipend relative to the cost-of-living.

The University is affiliated with the Harte Research Institute for Gulf of 
Mexico Studies (http://harteresearchinstitute.org/), which is where the 
student in this position will be housed. It is expected that the person 
will collaborate with scientists at TAMU-CC, but opportunities will also 
exist for collaboration with scientists at the nearby University of Texas 
Marine Science Institute, Mission-Aransas National Estuarine Research 
Reserve, and other regional institutes.

Cost-of-living in Corpus Christi, Texas, is inexpensive and ample 
opportunities exist for cultural/artistic and outdoor activities. San 
Antonio is approximately 2 hours to the northwest, Austin 3 hours to the 
northwest, and Houston 3 hours to the northeast.

I am looking to fill this position rather quickly, so to be considered for 
the position, please email me, Dr. Mike Wetz at mw...@fsu.edu, as soon as 
possible. Along with a letter of interest, please include a C.V., 
unofficial transcripts and GRE scores.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship Invasive Plants

[Mary Gardiner]

Graduate Assistantship in the Agricultural Landscape Ecology Lab – Dr. 
Mary Gardiner, The Ohio State University

Widespread occurrence of the exotic invasive shrub common buckthorn, 
Rhamnus cathartica, has resulted in cascading ecosystem disservices across 
the north central U.S. A landscape approach to understanding and managing 
these effects is required to enhance agricultural production and protect 
the natural resource base. Common buckthorn invades natural areas where it 
directly reduces native biodiversity. In addition, it serves as the 
primary overwintering host of the exotic soybean aphid, Aphis glycines, 
allowing it to successfully overwinter in the north central U.S. Soybean 
aphid negatively impacts the production of soybean and vegetable crops by 
direct feeding and vectoring plant viruses. Moreover, the presence of 
soybean aphid has facilitated an increase in the exotic multi-colored 
Asian lady beetle Harmonia axyridis, leading to the decline of several 
native lady beetle species. Harmonia adults also invade homes where they 
cause human allergies. 

The goal of this project is to develop a fundamental quantitative 
understanding of the cascading impacts of this keystone invader on 
ecosystem function and services, and to develop economically and 
ecologically rational strategies for its management at landscape-scales. 
This USDA-funded project is regional in scope and includes a citizen 
science component. Both PhD and MS will be considered. Student could begin 
program in Fall 2010 or Spring 2011. For more information contact Mary 
Gardiner: gardiner...@osu.edu.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship: University of Alaska Fairbanks

[Eugenie Euskirchen]

We are currently seeking one PhD candidate in the Department of Biology and
Wildlife at the University of Alaska Fairbanks for studies of the influence
of wetland characteristics and climate change on current and future
biodiversity in sub-arctic boreal forest wetlands in Yukon Flats National
Wildlife Refuge, Alaska.  Field work to begin no later than mid-May 2010. 
Persons with interest/experience in vegetative communities are particularly
encouraged to apply.  M.S. degree with a field-research-based thesis and
substantial progress toward publication is required; preference will be
given to demonstrated self-starters; demonstrated analytical, computational,
and GIS skills; demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and
productively as members and leaders of interdisciplinary field teams in
remote field settings under sometimes extreme conditions, strong
quantitative skills in order to model vegetation with a dynamic vegetation
model and, ability to formulate and successfully resolve original research
questions within the overall area of investigation.  Support will consist of
~80% Research Assistantship and ~20% Teaching Assistantship, including
tuition waivers and necessary field logistic support, subject to continued
USGS funding, for persons who maintain satisfactory progress. The University
of Alaska Fairbanks is an equal opportunity employer.  Contact:  Dr. Eugénie
Euskirchen, University of Fairbanks, Institute of Arctic Biology by email:
seeuskirc...@alaska.edu or phone: 907-474-1958, or Dr. Brad Griffith, USGS,
Alaska Cooperative Fish  Wildlife Research Unit, University of Alaska
Fairbanks by email: dbgriff...@alaska.edu or phone: 907-474-5067 for further
information and application instructions.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship: Michigan State U - KBS Pasture-based Robotic Milking Dairy Project

[Julie Cotton]

A graduate research assistantship (MS or PhD in Animal Science/Sustainable
Ag.) is available to study the agroecology of pasture-based dairy systems.
We are seeking to attract a highly motivated and creative individual
interested in interdisciplinary research dealing with the sustainability of
pasture-based dairy systems. The main focus of the project is the evaluation
of the whole-system performance of dairy operations. The project combines
automatic milking systems (AMS) with contrasting animal feeding strategies,
pasture input levels, stocking rates, and cows to AMS ratios. Specific
project opportunities are available in the areas of:  1) dairy systems and
AMS performance, 2) foraging behavior of dairy cattle and pasture
utilization in AMS 3) Pasture management and plant community ecology, 4)
Grazing management and ecosystem processes and services. 

This assistantship is based at the W.K. Kellogg Biological Station (KBS).
KBS hosts several programs on the ecology and management of aquatic and
terrestrial ecosystems, including the Long-Term Ecological Research
row-cropping system site, the biofuel research center, and the recently
established pasture-based and robotic milking dairy (www.kbs.msu.edu). The
KBS dairy consists of 120 registered Holsteins that are milked year around
with AMS. In combination with AMS, cows are grazed on irrigated grass legume
pastures during the growing season and housed in a free-stall barn during
the remainder of the year. 

Applicants must have earned a BS or MS degree in animal science,
agriculture, natural resources or related discipline with a minimum 3.5 GPA.
Outstanding writing skills and proven experience with scientific methods and
research techniques for pasture and animal grazing studies are highly 
recommended. The assistantship includes annual salary stipend ($ 22,000),
tuition and fees, and health insurance benefits. Interested applicants are
encouraged to send: 1) a letter of starting interests and goals; 2) a
current CV; 3) unofficial copies of transcripts and GRE scores (if
available); 4) contact information for 3 references. Applications will be
accepted until April 15, 2010 or until a suitable candidate is found. 

Please send application materials via email to Dr. Santiago Utsumi
(uts...@msu.edu) or by mail to S. Utsumi, W.K. Kellogg Biological Station,
Michigan State University, 3700 E. Gull Lake Dr., Hickory Corners, MI 49060.
 

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship (Delmarva Peninsula) – Bats

[kevina vulinec]

A Master’s graduate research assistantship is available in Dr. Kevina
Vulinec’s lab at Delaware State University, Department of Agriculture 
Natural Resources. The project involves bat activity and conservation on
regional golf courses and is funded through the National Fish and Wildlife
Foundation and DSU. This is a two-year position starting May 2010.

Candidate must have a bachelor’s degree in biology, wildlife, or a natural
resource field, must be able to work both independently and as part of a
team, be able to work long hours in uncomfortable field conditions, and have
a high tolerance for biting insects. Preference will be given to applicants
with prior bat handling, mist netting, and ultrasonic detector
experience.  Knowledge
of golf will be helpful. The rabies pre-exposure series is required for
work.  Housing will not be provided, but referrals to other graduate
students living near campus are available. Graduate students will need their
own vehicle.

Please send electronically your cv, including GPA and GRE scores, unofficial
transcripts, statement of research interests and experience, and names and
contact information for three references, AS ONE PDF FILE, to the email
below. Once a candidate is chosen he or she will have to apply formally to
the Natural Resource Graduate Program at DSU.

Deadline for application is 1 March 2010.

Contact: Dr. Kevina Vulinec (kvuli...@desu.edu)

Webpage: http://cars.desu.edu/faculty/kvulinec/


-- 
Kevina Vulinec, PhD, Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources,
Delaware State University, Dover, Delaware 19901-2277, (302) 857-6457 Fax:
(302) 857-6455, kvuli...@desu.edu

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship (Dendroclimatology in western Kenya)

[Sophan Chhin]

A graduate research assistantship (GRA) position at either the MS or Ph.D. 
level is available starting Summer 2010 (May 16, 2010) in the Department 
of Forestry (www.for.msu.edu) at Michigan State University (MSU).  The 
main objective of this project is to develop processed based models to 
link the impact of climate on carbon dynamics in western Kenyan trees and 
forests via dendroclimatology.  Tree-ring parameters that will be examined 
include ring width, ring density, and other anatomical parameters (e.g., 
vessel diameters and implications for tree hydraulic efficiency).  
Dendroclimatic models will serve as the basis for future projections of 
carbon dynamics under different future climate change scenarios.  

This project and position is a part of a new dimension to a larger Carbon 
Benefits Project (CBP) funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and 
implemented by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).  The 
general goal of CBP is to develop standardized protocols for measuring, 
monitoring and modeling carbon dynamics in terrestrial landscapes.  The 
measurement and monitoring component of CBP is being conducted by the 
World Wildlife Fund (WWF) in cooperation with Dr. David Skole (MSU) and 
other partners to integrate space-based remote sensing, ground-based 
measurements, and soils analysis.  

This position includes a tuition waiver and health benefits, and a 
competitive stipend at the Master's (~$19,000/year) or Ph.D. level 
(~$21,000/year).  The candidate selected for this position also has the 
opportunity to start before the Summer 2010 semester and be paid at an 
hourly rate until the GRA takes over.

If you are interested, contact:

Dr. Sophan Chhin
Assistant Professor, Silviculture and Forest Ecosystem Productivity
Department of Forestry
Michigan State University
126 Natural Resources Building
East Lansing, MI  48824-1222
Tel: (517) 353-7251
Fax: (517) 432-1143
E-mail: ch...@msu.edu
Web: https://www.msu.edu/~chhin/

In your initial inquiry, please submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, 
unofficial transcripts and GRE scores, and contact information of three 
references.  Applications will be considered immediately and continue 
until the position is filled.  To ensure full consideration please submit 
material by February 19, 2010.  

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship in Dendroclimatology (SUNY ESF)

[Colin Beier]

SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry: Graduate Research
Assistantship in Dendroclimatology, starting either in Fall 2010 or Spring
2011.  We are seeking a graduate student to join a new project investigating
multi-scale interactions of forest ecosystems and climatic variability in
the Adirondack Mountains of northern New York.  Using high resolution
spatial climate data, we will establish an extensive multi-species tree-ring
network in the Adirondacks that captures the spatial and temporal
variability in climatic factors influencing forest health, productivity,
competitive interactions, and resilience to change.  In addition to
developing climate-growth functions for two climate-sensitive species in the
northeast US, we will explore novel methods for evaluating coupled
spatiotemporal dynamics in climate and forest growth at local and landscape
scales.  The graduate student will lead the collection, measurement and
analysis of tree-ring data and will assist with climate-growth modeling and
related efforts.  Basic qualifications include a BSc degree in ecology,
mathematics, statistics or a similar field, a strong quantitative
background, the ability to work without supervision in both field and lab
settings.  Desired qualifications include one or more of the following: a
MSc degree in forest ecology, dendrochronology, applied mathematics
(including statistics), ecological modeling or a similar field, or
equivalent amount of experience with: tree-ring measurements/analysis; wood
anatomy sampling/analysis; management of large datasets; supervising
technicians.  The position is funded for two years and provides a
competitive stipend, tuition and benefits.  To apply, please send a CV,
cover letter, contact information for three references to Dr. Colin Beier at
cbe...@esf.edu.  Questions regarding the position are welcome.  Please be
sure to include the text ADK DENDRO in the message subject line.   

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship

[David Cooper]

PhD Assistantship in Ecology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 
80523.
Influence of Climate Change on the Water and Carbon Budgets and Vegetation 
of Rocky Mountain Peatlands.  A graduate research assistantship is 
available to analyze the short and long-term influences of climate change 
on fens in the Rocky Mountains of the U.S.  We will analyze hydrologic, 
carbon and nutrient dynamics in fens located in areas with different 
precipitation regimes (San Juan Mountains, Colorado and Medicine Bow 
Mountains, Wyoming) and at different elevations.  The student will conduct 
detailed hydrologic analysis of well and piezometer nests, carbon gas 
fluxes, plant production and decomposition dynamics, as well as long-term 
history of peat accumulation and vegetation composition.  This project is 
a collaborative effort between Colorado State University (CSU) and the 
USDA Forest Service Rocky Mountain Research Station.  The student will be 
enrolled in the Graduate Degree Program in Ecology at CSU, and housed in 
the Department of Forest, Rangeland and Watershed Stewardship.  Applicants 
must possess a Masters degree in a suitable scientific field (hydrology, 
wetland ecology, or plant ecology), be physically capable of working in 
wilderness setting at high elevation sites (up to 3500 m elevation), and 
performing demanding work.  Student will be provided with a monthly 
stipend, and tuition and field expenses are provided.  Send letter of 
interest, CV and list of references to Dr. David J. Cooper at: 
david.coo...@colostate.edu

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship, evolutionary ecology of plant-herbivore interactions, Univ. WI

[David Inouye]

Graduate Research Assistantship

Evolutionary Ecology of Plant-Herbivore Interactions
University of Wisconsin, Madison


A Graduate Research Assistantship (M.S. - Ph.D. or Ph.D. only) is 
available for work with the research groups of Rick Lindroth and Eric 
Kruger at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Funded by a new, 
five-year NSF grant, this research addresses genetic, ontogenetic and 
environmental factors that influence aspen defense (chemical 
resistance, tolerance, escape) against mammalian herbivores (e.g., 
deer). Primary objectives of the work are to: 1) characterize aspen 
chemical defense traits, 2) assess costs/benefits of resistance, 
tolerance and escape, and 3) evaluate the selective impact of 
browsing on the genetic structure of defense traits in an 
experimental population. Applicants must be interested in 
investigating both the chemical and population genetics aspects of 
plant-herbivore interactions. Applicants should pursue admission to 
the graduate program in http://www.zoology.wisc.edu/Zoology 
(Ecology), http://forestandwildlifeecology.wisc.edu/Forest and 
Wildlife Ecology, or http://www.botany.wisc.edu/Botany.


For more information about the Lindroth and Kruger research groups, visit:
http://entomology.wisc.edu/~lindroth/http://entomology.wisc.edu/~lindroth/
http://forest.wisc.edu/facstaff/kruger.html

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is a premier institution for 
research in ecology and evolution, and has ranked among the top five 
research universities in the United States for each of the past 20 years.


Qualifications:

Highly motivated individuals with superior academic credentials and 
strong communication skills are encouraged to apply. Well-developed 
interpersonal skills are essential. Candidates must be able to work 
independently as well as part of a collaborative research team.


Stipend/benefits:

50% Research Assistantships currently provide a stipend of $ $20,184 
(12 mo.), tuition waiver, and excellent medical/dental health plans.


Position available beginning in summer or fall of 2010.

Inquiries:
Send preliminary e-mail letter of inquiry, describing research 
interests and academic qualifications, to:


Dr. Rick Lindroth
mailto:lindr...@wisc.edulindr...@wisc.edu

237 Russell Labs
1630 Linden Drive
University of Wisconsin
Madison, WI  53706 U.S.A.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship in Forest Microbial Processes

[Kristin McElligott]

Graduate Assistant - microbial responses to biochar

We are seeking an MS student to evaluate the impacts of biochar amendments
on forest soil microbial processes.  The graduate student will work on a
collaborative USDA Forest Service funded study evaluating impacts of
removing bioenergy feedstocks from hazard fuel reduction projects for the
production of bio-oil and biochar through mobile pyrolysis units (
http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/umpqua/projects/fast-pyrolysis/index.shtml ).  The
primary focus is to examine the impact of biochar amendments on forest soil
physical, chemical and microbial processes.  The MS student should be
familiar with forest soil science, as well as above and belowground
processes controlling forest productivity throughout the Inland Northwest. 
Desirable background includes experience with soil microbes and forest
bioenergy production systems.  For inquiries contact Mark Coleman
(mcole...@uidaho.edu, 208-885-7604). Applications deadline is 30 October
2009. A full announcement can be found at the following web site: 
http://www.cnr.uidaho.edu/forres/Finan_Aid/assistantships.asp  

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship: Decomposition in Drylands: Soil erosion - UV interactions

[Steve Archer]

Graduate Research Assistantship

Decomposition in Drylands:  Soil erosion - UV interactions

We invite applications for a graduate research assistantship (GRA; Ph.  
D. level preferred; 3 years funding) from students interested in  
decomposition processes in desert ecosystems. Most of what is known  
about decomposition is from studies in high rainfall areas, but this  
knowledge does not translate well to dryland ecosystems.  Recent  
studies suggest solar ultra-violet radiation is a major driver of  
decomposition in drylands; however, other studies indicate the level  
of mixing of wind/water-transported soils with litter is a key factor.  
This project seeks to resolve these competing explanations via a  
series of laboratory studies and field experiments in Arizona designed  
to measure light energy-soil movement-decomposition interactions.  
These linkages will be assessed in the context of woody plant  
encroachment into grasslands, a globally extensive vegetation change  
in drylands.


The graduate research assistant will be based at the University of  
Arizona with Steve Archer and Dave Breshears. The GRA will participate  
in an interdisciplinary investigation seeking new insights into  
processes affecting desert soil fertility and carbon storage by  
combining the disciplines of plant community ecology, ecosystem  
science and earth science in a novel framework. The GRA’s project will  
be field-oriented and will quantify spatial patterns of litter input  
and its translocation by wind and water and litter mass loss in  
contrasting plant community configurations. The GRA will work closely  
with collaborators at New Mexico State University (Heather Throop;  
litter chemistry), the University of Kentucky (Rebecca McCulley;  
microbial communities) and Loyola University (Paul Barnes,  
photobiology).  For additional details on the project see http://www.snr.arizona.edu/project/decomposition 
.


Starting date negotiable, but Fall or Spring 2009 is preferred. The  
assistantship includes an annual salary of $14,677 (MS) or $15,990  
(PhD); waiver of out-of-state tuition; full remission of in-state  
tuition; and health insurance.  Applications will be accepted until 7  
November 2009 or until suitable candidate is found, and should include  
1) a statement of interests and goals, 2) a CV with copies of  
transcripts and GRE scores, and 3) names and contact information for  
3-5 references.  For general admission requirements see http://www.snr.arizona.edu/academic/grad 
.


Applications and information requests should be directed (preferably  
via email) to Steve Archer (sarc...@ag.arizona.edu), 325 Bio Sciences  
East, School of Natural Resources, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ   
85721-0043; 520 626-8791).

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship in Tropical Forest Management Ecological Sustainability Indicators

[Naikoa Aguilar-Amuchastegui]

Graduate Research Assistantship in Tropical Forest Management Ecological
Sustainability Indicators. Department of Environmental Studies, University
of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW). 
We are looking for a highly motivated Graduate student to help us conduct
research on the relations existing between remote sensing derived data on
forest structural trends, current biodiversity present in managed and
natural tropical forest areas and management practices in Costa Rica. The
student will work on the biodiversity component of the project. She or He
will spend 2 summers in Costa Rica doing field work in the Sarapiqui region.
Biodiversity surveys will include vegetation structure, dung beetles,
butterflies and Birds. Previous birding experience is highly desired as well
as knowledge of Spanish. 
This is a joint project with the Geographic Information Science Center of
Excellence (GIScCE) of South Dakota State University. Funding from NASA goes
until 2012. Other partner institutions include The Fundacion para el
Desarrollo de la Cordillera Volcanica Central (FUNDECOR) and The Tropical
Agronomic Research and Higher Education center (CATIE). 
Applicants should email their CV’s to Naikoa Aguilar-Amuchastegui
(aguilaramuchasteg...@uncw.edu) and fill their online applications before
October 15th 2009 (see https://app.applyyourself.com/?id=UNCW-GRAD). 

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship: Decomposition in Drylands

[Steve Archer]

 Graduate Research Assistantship
Decomposition in Drylands:  Soil erosion - UV interactions

We invite applications for a graduate research assistantship (GRA; Ph.  
D. level
preferred; 3 years funding) from students interested in decomposition  
processes in desert
ecosystems. Most of what is known about decomposition is from studies  
in high rainfall areas,
but this knowledge does not translate well to dryland ecosystems.   
Recent studies suggest solar
ultra-violet radiation is a major driver of decomposition in drylands;  
however, other studies
indicate the level of mixing of wind/water-transported soils with  
litter is a key factor. This project
seeks to resolve these competing explanations via a series of  
laboratory studies and field
experiments in Arizona designed to measure light energy-soil movement- 
decomposition
interactions. These linkages will be assessed in the context of woody  
plant encroachment into

grasslands, a globally extensive vegetation change in drylands.

The graduate research assistant will be based at the University of  
Arizona with Steve Archer
and Dave Breshears. The GRA will participate in an interdisciplinary  
investigation seeking new
insights into processes affecting desert soil fertility and carbon  
storage by combining the
disciplines of plant community ecology, ecosystem science and earth  
science in a novel
framework. The GRA’s project will be field-oriented and will quantify  
spatial patterns of litter
input and its translocation by wind and water and litter mass loss in  
contrasting plant community
configurations. The GRA will work closely with collaborators at New  
Mexico State University
(Heather Throop; litter chemistry), the University of Kentucky  
(Rebecca McCulley; microbial
communities) and Loyola University (Paul Barnes, photobiology).  For  
additional details on the

project see http://www.snr.arizona.edu/project/decomposition.

Starting date negotiable, but Summer 2009 is preferred. The  
assistantship includes an annual
salary of $14,677 (MS) or $15,990 (PhD); waiver of out-of-state  
tuition; full remission of in-state
tuition; and health insurance.  Applications will be accepted until 31  
May 2009 or until suitable
candidate is found, and should include 1) a statement of interests and  
goals, 2) a CV with
copies of transcripts and GRE scores, and 3) names and contact  
information for 3-5 references.
For general admission requirements see http://www.snr.arizona.edu/academic/grad 
.


Applications and information requests should be directed (preferably  
via email) to Steve Archer
(sarc...@ag.arizona.edu), 325 Bio Sciences East, School of Natural  
Resources, University of

Arizona, Tucson, AZ  85721-0043; 520 626-8791).

NOTE: PIs (see paragraph two above) will be at ESA meetings in  
Albuquerque and would be happy

to visit with interested persons.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship: Environmental and Ecological Modeling

[Andrew O. Finley]

Graduate assistantship is available to a highly motivated student to work on
a NSF or USDA funded project. Projects focus on method development for
spatiotemporal analysis of large ecological inventory databases. Candidates
must have a desire to pursue an emphasis in environmental data modeling,
statistical computing, and demonstrate competency in computer programming
(e.g., R, C/C++, or Fortran).

Compensation package includes: 
-RA funding available for 2 years, starting Fall 2009 semester
-Enrollment through the Department of Forestry or Geography
-Possible specialization in Statistics and Probability

If you are interested please provide:
-Statement of interest and career goals
-GRE scores
-Undergraduate and graduate transcripts
-Curriculum vita

Andrew Finley
Natural Resources Building
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI 48824-1222
Email: finl...@msu.edu
Phone: 517-432-7219
web: http://blue.for.msu.edu

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship (Tree Rings, Climate Change, and Forest Restoration)

[Sophan Chhin]

A graduate research assistantship position at either the MS or Ph.D. level 
is available starting Fall 2009 (September 2009) in the Department of 
Forestry (www.for.msu.edu) at Michigan State University (MSU).  The 
position includes a tuition waiver and health benefits, and a competitive 
stipend for 2 years at the MS level (~$19,000/year) or 3 years at the PhD 
level (~$21,000/year).  MSU is a land grant institution and there are many 
opportunities to conduct research at the network of MSU experiment 
stations throughout Michigan (http://www.maes.msu.edu/stations.htm).

Either of the following two major lines of research could be explored:

1)  Impact of climatic change on the sustainable development of woody 
biomass through tree-ring analyses of hybrid poplars

There is limited understanding of the climatic sensitivity (e.g., degree 
of drought tolerance) of short rotation woody crops such as hybrid 
poplars.  The general objective of this project is to elucidate the key 
climatic controls (water stress and temperature stress) of hybrid poplar 
growth and physiology.  Tree-ring analysis techniques (dendrochronology) 
will be used to retrospectively assess year-to-year (interannual) changes 
in stem wood properties of hybrid poplars.  Mechanistically based models 
between past instrumental records of climate (e.g., temperature and 
precipitation) and physical (e.g., ring width and density) and chemical 
(e.g., cellulose and lignin content) wood parameters will provide the 
basis for projecting these wood parameters under different future 
scenarios of climate change in the 21st century.  This research will have 
implications for optimizing forest management practices for improved wood 
quality, and contribute towards reducing uncertainty in the future supply 
of biomass feedstocks in the context of future climate change.

2)  Restoration of oak savannah and regeneration of oak

In the Midwest of the United States, the area previously covered by open 
canopy oak savannah communities (dominated by black oak and white oak) has 
shrunk considerably and this has been attributed primarily due to fire 
suppression.  The objective of this project is to examine the impact of 
climate, vegetation competition (i.e., grass species), and prescribed fire 
on oak regeneration and growth dynamics of mature trees in oak savannah 
ecosystems.  Oak savannah represents an ecotone between forest and 
prairie, and ecotones are expected to be very sensitive to climate 
change.  

In dry-mesic, closed-canopy forest communities, oak species such as white 
oak and red oak are difficult to regenerate both naturally and 
artificially.  The objective of this project is to increase the 
reliability of oak regeneration.  One of the challenges faced with 
regenerating oak is the lack of a mechanistic understanding of factors 
controlling acorn mast years.  Climate data, and stand and tree parameters 
such as tree foliage and tree-ring data will be related to acorn 
production levels.  In addition, it has been reported that the decline of 
oak forest cover in some areas is related to fire suppression.  
Consequently, the effect of prescribed burning in oak stands on subsequent 
rates of oak regeneration will be examined.

If you are interested, contact:

Dr. Sophan Chhin
Assistant Professor, Silviculture and Forest Ecosystem Productivity
Department of Forestry
Michigan State University
126 Natural Resources Building
East Lansing, MI  48824-1222
Tel: (517) 353-7251
Fax: (517) 432-1143
E-mail: ch...@msu.edu
Web: https://www.msu.edu/~chhin/

In your initial inquiry, please submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, 
unofficial transcripts and GRE scores, and contact information of three 
references.  Applications will be considered immediately and continue 
until the position is filled.  To ensure full consideration please submit 
material by June 12, 2009.  MSU is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity 
Employer.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship: Decomposition-Soil erosion-UV interactions

[Steve Archer]

We invite applications for a graduate research assistantship (GRA; Ph.  
D. level
preferred; 3 years funding) from students interested in decomposition  
processes in desert
ecosystems. Most of what is known about decomposition is from studies  
in high rainfall areas,
but this knowledge does not translate well to dryland ecosystems.   
Recent studies suggest solar
ultra-violet radiation is a major driver of decomposition in drylands;  
however, other studies
indicate the level of mixing of wind/water-transported soils with  
litter is a key factor. This project
seeks to resolve these competing explanations via a series of  
laboratory studies and field
experiments in Arizona designed to measure light energy-soil movement- 
decomposition
interactions. These linkages will be assessed in the context of woody  
plant encroachment into

grasslands, a globally extensive vegetation change in drylands.

The graduate research assistant will be based at the University of  
Arizona with Steve Archer
and Dave Breshears. The GRA will participate in an interdisciplinary  
investigation seeking new
insights into processes affecting desert soil fertility and carbon  
storage by combining the
disciplines of plant community ecology, ecosystem science and earth  
science in a novel
framework. The GRA’s project will be field-oriented and will quantify  
spatial patterns of litter
input and its translocation by wind and water and litter mass loss in  
contrasting plant community
configurations. The GRA will work closely with collaborators at New  
Mexico State University
(Heather Throop; litter chemistry), the University of Kentucky  
(Rebecca McCulley; microbial
communities) and Loyola University (Paul Barnes, photobiology).  For  
additional details on the

project see http://www.snr.arizona.edu/project/decomposition.

Starting date negotiable, but Summer 2009 is preferred. The  
assistantship includes an annual
salary of $14,677 (MS) or $15,990 (PhD); waiver of out-of-state  
tuition; full remission of in-state
tuition; and health insurance.  Applications will be accepted until 31  
May 2009 or until suitable
candidate is found, and should include 1) a statement of interests and  
goals, 2) a CV with
copies of transcripts and GRE scores, and 3) names and contact  
information for 3-5 references.
For general admission requirements see http://www.snr.arizona.edu/academic/grad 
.


Applications and information requests should be directed (preferably  
via email) to Steve Archer
(sarc...@ag.arizona.edu), 325 Bio Sciences East, School of Natural  
Resources, University of

Arizona, Tucson, AZ  85721-0043; 520 626-8791).



Steve Archer
325 Biological Sciences East Bldg. #43
1311 E. 4th Street
PO Box 210043
School of Natural Resources
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ  85721-0043
Phone: (520) 626-8791
Mobile:  (520) 400-1019
FAX: (520) 621-8801
Email:  sarc...@ag.arizona.edu
http://ag.arizona.edu/research/archer/

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship: Decomposition-Soil erosion-UV interactions

[Steve Archer]

We invite applications for a graduate research assistantship (GRA; Ph.  
D. level
preferred; 3 years funding) from students interested in decomposition  
processes in desert
ecosystems. Most of what is known about decomposition is from studies  
in high rainfall areas,
but this knowledge does not translate well to dryland ecosystems.   
Recent studies suggest solar
ultra-violet radiation is a major driver of decomposition in drylands;  
however, other studies
indicate the level of mixing of wind/water-transported soils with  
litter is a key factor. This project
seeks to resolve these competing explanations via a series of  
laboratory studies and field
experiments in Arizona designed to measure light energy-soil movement- 
decomposition
interactions. These linkages will be assessed in the context of woody  
plant encroachment into

grasslands, a globally extensive vegetation change in drylands.

The graduate research assistant will be based at the University of  
Arizona with Steve Archer
and Dave Breshears. The GRA will participate in an interdisciplinary  
investigation seeking new
insights into processes affecting desert soil fertility and carbon  
storage by combining the
disciplines of plant community ecology, ecosystem science and earth  
science in a novel
framework. The GRA’s project will be field-oriented and will quantify  
spatial patterns of litter
input and its translocation by wind and water and litter mass loss in  
contrasting plant community
configurations. The GRA will work closely with collaborators at New  
Mexico State University
(Heather Throop; litter chemistry), the University of Kentucky  
(Rebecca McCulley; microbial
communities) and Loyola University (Paul Barnes, photobiology).  For  
additional details on the

project see http://www.snr.arizona.edu/project/decomposition.

Starting date negotiable, but Summer 2009 is preferred. The  
assistantship includes an annual
salary of $14,677 (MS) or $15,990 (PhD); waiver of out-of-state  
tuition; full remission of in-state
tuition; and health insurance.  Applications will be accepted until 31  
May 2009 or until suitable
candidate is found, and should include 1) a statement of interests and  
goals, 2) a CV with
copies of transcripts and GRE scores, and 3) names and contact  
information for 3-5 references.
For general admission requirements see http://www.snr.arizona.edu/academic/grad 
.


Applications and information requests should be directed (preferably  
via email) to Steve Archer
(sarc...@ag.arizona.edu), 325 Bio Sciences East, School of Natural  
Resources, University of

Arizona, Tucson, AZ  85721-0043; 520 626-8791).


Steve Archer
325 Biological Sciences East Bldg. #43
1311 E. 4th Street
PO Box 210043
School of Natural Resources
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ  85721-0043
Phone: (520) 626-8791
Mobile:  (520) 400-1019
FAX: (520) 621-8801
Email:  sarc...@ag.arizona.edu
http://ag.arizona.edu/research/archer/

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship, Microbial Ecology, Antarctica

[Christine Foreman]

A graduate research assistantship is available for a highly qualified
student at Montana State University. The successful applicant will be
involved in an NSF-funded project that examines microbial communities and
dissolved organic matter in the Transantarctic Mountains and McMurdo Dry
Valleys of Antarctica.   The student will be based at MSU, but will
collaborate with students and PI’s at the University of Colorado-Boulder
(McKnight) and The Ohio State University (Chin). Field work will be
conducted in Antarctica.

Ph.D. students are preferred, but M.S. students may apply. The assistantship
includes a stipend, tuition, health insurance and expenses for research.
Interested applicants should contact Dr. Christine Foreman
(cfore...@montana.edu) and send a letter of interest (prior accomplishments,
research experience and interests, future career goals), a CV, transcripts,
and GRE scores. Details about the graduate program at Montana State
University can be found through the Department of Land Resources and
Environmental Sciences (http://landresources.montana.edu), and the graduate
school (http://www.montana.edu/wwwdg/).  Start date is summer/fall 2009.

Founded in 1893 in the scenic Gallatin Valley just north of Yellowstone
National Park, Montana State University has a total enrollment of 12,000
students, including ~ 1,200 graduate students. MSU is recognized as one of
94 U.S. research universities representing the top tier of the Carnegie
Foundation rankings. Research funding currently exceeds $100 million
annually and has been growing steadily. For more information see the MSU
website at http://www.montana.edu. Named an All-American City, Bozeman is an
attractive, culturally alive city located in the northern Rocky Mountain
region. The 70,000 residents of Bozeman and nearby communities enjoy
excellent schools, diversified medical facilities, a vibrant cultural and
arts scene, and one of the most superb year-round recreational areas in the
nation, including two world-class ski areas, blue ribbon trout fishing
streams and the Gallatin National Forest. 

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship in Integrated Pest Management

[Catherine Tarasoff]

A graduate research assistantship at the PhD. level is available in the 
Invasive Plant Ecology Laboratory of Dr. Tarasoff at the School of 
Forest Resources and Environmental Science, Michigan Technological 
University. The successful applicant will lead an Integrated Pest 
Management project studying the use of the Wetblade^® 
(http://www.diamondmowers.com/) to control Canada thistle and common 
reed along roadways. The goals of the project are to reduce herbicide 
use, drift, applicator exposure and environmental contamination while 
improving invasive species control. As the project is experiment-based, 
field work will be required in the St.Paul/Minneapolis region. However, 
it is expected that the student will develop complementary greenhouse 
experiments.


A background in forestry, botany, ecology, weed science, plant 
physiology or agronomy is desirable; as well as, the application of 
statistical methods. Proficiency in spoken and written English is a 
necessity.


Michigan Tech is one of the Nation’s premier Forestry and Environmental 
Science Universities. The School of Forest Resources and Environmental 
Science has been ranked **fourth in the nation* 
http://www.academicanalytics.com/TopSchools/TopPrograms.aspx#9* for 
scholarly productivity among forestry schools, and *first in North 
America* 
http://saf.publisher.ingentaconnect.com/content/saf/jof/2006/0104/0005/art5 
based on citations per faculty member.


Michigan Tech is located in the snowbelt (200” annual snowfall) of 
Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula on the south shore of Lake Superior. 
Michigan Tech is in the small town of Houghton, which was rated as one 
of the top 10 U.S. adrenaline outposts by National Geographic Adventure 
Magazine http://www.nationalgeographic.com/adventure/0107/trips_5.html 
and boasts excellent skiing, hiking, kayaking and mountain biking.


Consideration of applications begins immediately and will continue until 
the position is filled. The ideal start dates are May 1 or September1, 
2009. Benefits include a monthly stipend and tuition waiver.


Interested applicants are encouraged to send a letter stating your interest in the 
program and a CV to Dr. Tarasoff via email at ctara...@mtu.edu. 
mailto:ctara...@mtu.edu.

--
---
Catherine Tarasoff, PhD. – Assistant Professor
Weed Science - Invasive Plant Ecology
School of Forest Resources and Environmental Science 
Department of Biological Sciences

1400 Townsend Drive
Michigan Technological University
Houghton, MI
49931

906-487-2396
ctara...@mtu.edu

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship Opportunity

[Carrie Knott]

Graduate Research Assistantship

Louisiana State University-Baton Rouge, LA. USA


The Coastal Plants Breeding Program is accepting applications for one Ph.D.
graduate research assistantship at Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge.
 The Coastal Plants Breeding Program is the only breeding program in the
nation testing and improving native plants for coastal restoration projects
using traditional and molecular plant breeding methods.  
This assistantship will compensate a Ph.D. student for investigating various
aspects of sea oats (Uniola paniculata L.) seed production and performance
of sea oats plants produced from seeds. Sea oats is a native plant species
that is extremely valuable for reducing erosion throughout the Gulf and
Atlantic Coasts.  

This assistantship is available in August 2009 and includes a generous
12-month stipend, tuition waiver, and low-cost health insurance.  Interested
individuals who have a M.S. in ecology, biology, plant science or a related
field should send applications to Carrie Knott (ckn...@agcenter.lsu.edu) by
March 15, 2009.  Applicants with a B.S. and a demonstrated record of
exceptional academic and research experience will also be considered.  The
successful applicant must maintain a MINIMUM 3.5 GPA to retain the
assistantship.  Applications should include copies of transcripts, GRE
scores, TOEFL scores (if applicable), and a C.V.

For more detailed information please contact:
Carrie Knott
Assistant Professor
Louisiana State University
School of Plant, Environmental, and Soil Sciences
104 M.B. Sturgis Hall
Baton Rouge, LA 70803
ckn...@agcenter.lsu.edu

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship - Nitrogen in Grazing Systems

[Rebecca McCulley]

MS/PhD Graduate Research Assistantship: Nitrogen Cycling in Managed Grasslands
Location: University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
Review/Close Date: Tentative start date – June 2009
Description:
An MS or PhD level graduate research assistantship is available in the
grassland ecosystem ecology lab of Dr. Rebecca McCulley (see
http://rebecca.mcculley.googlepages.com/) at the University of Kentucky to
explore the effects of plant community composition and fungal endophyte
symbiosis on nitrogen cycling, retention, and loss in cattle grazed,
transition zone, managed grasslands.  Familiarity with the techniques used
to measure trace gas fluxes and nitrogen isotopes is preferred (though not
required).  Interested applicants are encouraged to send a CV and cover
letter to:
Dr. Rebecca McCulley
N-222D Ag Sci North
Dept. of Plant  Soil Science
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY   40546-0091
Phone: (859) 257-6388
Fax: (859) 323-1952
Email: rebecca.mccul...@uky.edu

The successful candidate will receive a graduate student stipend, health
insurance, and tuition remission for at least 2 years.  Start Date: June 1,
2009.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship - Decomposition in Aridlands

[Rebecca McCulley]

Graduate Research Assistantship Available at the University of Kentucky:
A graduate research assistantship (MS or PhD level) is available in the
Department of Plant  Soil Sciences at the University of Kentucky
(Lexington, KY).  This position is affiliated with the grassland ecosystem
ecology lab of Dr. Rebecca McCulley (see
http://rebecca.mcculley.googlepages.com/) and is being supported by an NSF
funded project entitled, ‘COLLABORATIVE RESEARCH:  Decomposition in
drylands:  Soil erosion and UV interactions.’  As suggested by the title,
the project is collaborative in nature (with Drs. Steve Archer, Dave
Breshears, Heather Throop, and Paul Barnes), and the field sites for this
work are in the desert grasslands of New Mexico and Arizona (see
http://www.snr.arizona.edu/project/decomposition for more information).  The
assistantship in Kentucky will support the microbial-side of the project;
therefore, applicants for this position should have demonstrated skills with
traditional and/or modern microbial techniques.  Candidates with an MS
degree in soil science, ecology, microbiology, or related fields and proven
interest, experience, and/or knowledge of dryland ecosystems are encouraged
to apply.   The successful candidate will receive a graduate student
stipend, health insurance, and tuition remission for at least 3 years.  For
more information, please contact:
Dr. Rebecca McCulley
N-222D Ag Sci North
Dept. of Plant  Soil Science
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY   40546-0091
Phone: (859) 257-6388
Fax: (859) 323-1952
Email: rebecca.mccul...@uky.edu

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship in Invasion Ecology

[Catherine Tarasoff]

graduate research assistantship at the M.S./PhD. level is available in 
the Invasive Plant Ecology Laboratory of Dr. Tarasoff at the School of 
Forest Resources and Environmental Science, Michigan Technological 
University. The successful applicant will lead a project studying the 
movement of invasive species along Great Lake shorelines. As the project 
is experiment-based, extensive field work will be required. However, it 
is expected that the student will develop complimentary greenhouse 
experiments.



A background in forestry, botany, community ecology, ecosystem modeling, 
aquatic ecology, weed science, or agronomy is desirable; as well as, an 
interest in the application of statistical methods, spatial modeling and 
applied ecology. Proficiency in spoken and written English is a necessity.


Michigan Tech is one of the Nation’s premier Forestry and Environmental 
Science Universities. The School of Forest Resources and Environmental 
Science has been ranked *fourth in the nation* for scholarly 
productivity among forestry schools, and *first in North America* based 
on citations per faculty member.


Consideration of applications begins immediately and will continue until 
the position is filled. The ideal start date is September 1, 2009 but 
other dates will be considered.


Interested applicants are encouraged to send a letter stating your 
interest in the program and a resume to Dr. Tarasoff by email at 
ctara...@mtu.edu. mailto:%20ctara...@mtu.edu.


--
---
Catherine Tarasoff – Invasive Plant Ecologist

School of Forest Resources and Environmental Sciences
Department of Biological Sciences

1400 Townsend Drive
Michigan Technological University
Houghton, MI
49931

906-487-2396
ctara...@mtu.edu

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship-M.S. Northern Arizona University

[Yeon-Su Kim]

GRADUATE RESEARCH ASSISTANTSHIP (M.S.)
School of Forestry, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, Arizona

There is an opening for a two-year graduate research assistant position at 
School of Forestry,
Northern Arizona University (Starting July 1, 2009) in the field of ecological 
economics. The
selected candidate will have the opportunity to work closely with the 
Ecological Restoration
Institute to estimate economic impacts of ecological restoration treatments and 
biomass
utilization (job and income creations).

With the worsening condition of the U.S. economy, there is a greater need for 
information on
how to create more employment opportunities in economically depressed rural 
areas. We will
estimate potential economic impacts (output, job, and income creations) of 
ecological restoration
treatments and biomass utilizations, including biomass energy development. This 
project will
generate time-sensitive information that communities and land managers can use 
to attract public
funding for enhancing their social and economic environment while promoting 
ecosystem health.

The successful applicants should work well with people and have good 
communication (written
and oral) and organizational skills. Candidates should have background and 
interest in forestry,
natural resource economics and policy, or other related disciplines.

Application procedures
Candidates should submit:
- A one-page letter (email is satisfactory) describing qualifications and 
experience
- An up-to-date curriculum vitae or resume
- Copies of undergraduate college transcripts
- Names, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses of three professional references

to:
Dr. Yeon-Su Kim
School of Forestry
Box 15018
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ 86011
Phone: (928) 523-6643
e-mail: yeon-su@nau.edu

Graduate school admissions applications are completed separately through NAU 
and the School
of Forestry. See the NAU web site (http://www.for.nau.edu)  for details.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship at Colorado State University

[Richard T. Conant]

A Graduate Research Assistantship will be available at the Natural Resource
Ecology Laboratory, Colorado State University. Funding is available for an
MS/PhD research assistantship (beginning summer or fall 2009) to study soil
carbon dynamics and ecosystem ecology. The project investigates soil carbon
stabilization mechanisms impact the sensitivity of soil carbon turnover to
temperature. The student will participate in collection and analysis of soil
samples from several grassland and cultivated sites throughout North
America, isolating and quantifying various pools of soil carbon,
investigating biological control and response, and data interpretation,
modeling, and reporting. In addition to a solid background in biology,
chemistry, ecology, math, and soil science, experience with laboratory soil
analyses, in particular soil fractionation procedures and isotopic analysis,
is desirable. For more information go to
http://www.nrel.colostate.edu/projects/agecosys/swarmII_abstract.pdf and
read more about ‘Reconciling predictions of kinetic theory with observations
of decomposition responses to temperature: Biological, biochemical, and
edaphic constraints.’

Please Contact: Dr. Richard Conant (con...@nrel.colostate.edu; ph.
970-491-1919) or Dr. Eldor A. Paul (el...@nrel.colostate.edu; ph.
970-491-1987) at the Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory, Colorado State
University, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1499, U.S.A.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship (MSU Forestry)

[Sophan Chhin]

A graduate research assistant position at either the MS or Ph.D. level is 
available starting May 2009 with Dr. Sophan Chhin (www.msu.edu/~chhin) in 
the Department of Forestry (www.for.msu.edu) at Michigan State University 
(MSU). Research will involve examining the effect of silvicultural 
management practices (e.g., thinning) on interannual variation in physical 
(e.g., ring width, density) and chemical (e.g., cellulose and lignin 
content) wood properties.  The project will incorporate many 
methodological techniques from the discipline of tree ring research 
(dendrochronology).  The successful applicant is also expected to explore 
possible relationships between wood properties and past climate which may 
serve as the basis for future projections of wood parameters under 
different climate change scenarios.  This research will have implications 
for optimizing silvicultural practices for improved wood quality, and 
contribute to the sustainable production of bioenergy and biofuels in the 
context of climate change.  MSU is a land grant institution and there are 
many opportunities to conduct research at the network of MSU experiment 
stations throughout Michigan.

Applicants interested in a MS level position should preferably have a BS 
in forestry, biology, ecology, environmental sciences, or a similarly 
related natural resource field.  Applicants interested in a Ph.D. level 
position should preferably have a MS as well as some publishing 
experience.  Experience conducting tree ring analyses is desirable.

The position includes a tuition waiver and health benefits, and a 
competitive stipend (MS:  ~$19,000/year; Ph.D.: ~$21,000/year) for 3 years 
that is renewable annually based on satisfactory performance.  Please 
submit application package that includes a cover letter, curriculum vitae, 
transcripts, GRE scores, and contact information of three references to 
(electronic applications are preferred):

Dr. Sophan Chhin
Assistant Professor, Silviculture and Forest Ecosystem Productivity
Department of Forestry
Michigan State University
126 Natural Resources Building
East Lansing, MI  48824-1222
Tel: (517) 353-7251
Fax: (517) 432-1143
E-mail: ch...@msu.edu

Applications will be considered immediately and continue until the 
position is filled.  To ensure full consideration please submit material 
by February 20, 2009.  MSU is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity 
Employer.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship at Colorado State University

[Brown,Cynthia]

Graduate Student Research Associate
We seek a highly motivated student with excellent academic credentials and 
previous research experience to lead a cross-site nutrient and herbivore 
manipulation study in northern Colorado and southern Wyoming.  These sites are 
two of over 50 sites that comprise the Nutrient Network, a global study of the 
controls on productivity and diversity in grasslands.  The study can be 
expanded to include interactions between nutrients, herbivores and other 
factors, such as global changes.  The successful candidate will play an 
important role in determining the nature of the full study.  The successful 
candidate will enroll in the Graduate Degree Program in Ecology at Colorado 
State University in Fort Collins, Colorado.  We prefer a student who has a 
masters degree and wishes to pursue a doctorate.  However, qualified candidates 
without masters degrees will be considered.  The project advisers are Julia 
Klein, Cynthia Brown and Dana Blumenthal.  For more information and to apply, 
contact Julia Klein after December 30, 2008 by email at 
julia.kl...@colostate.edu.  Review of applications will begin immediately.


Cynthia S. Brown
Assistant Professor
Bioagricultural Sciences and Pest Management
Colorado State University
1177 Campus Delivery
Fort Collins, Colorado 80523-1177
Phone:  (970)491-1949
FAX: (970)491-3862
Email: cynthia.s.br...@colostate.edu

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship - PhD

[Margaret M. Moore]

Ph.D. Graduate Research Assistantship, School of Forestry, Northern 
Arizona University (NAU), Flagstaff, AZ.  The research project is 
entitled “Long-term responses of northern Arizona grasses to climate and 
land-use change,” and the student will examine demographic and basal area 
changes of the major grass species over the past 90 years (early 1900s 
until present) on a set of historical permanent plots.  The graduate 
research assistantship (GRA) is for four years (July 1, 2009 until June 
30, 2013) and the GRA package includes a stipend, student insurance, and 
out-of-state tuition waiver.  If you are interested, please contact Dr. 
Margaret M. Moore (margaret.mo...@nau.edu; 928-523-7457).  NAU’s 
application deadline for fall semester is March 15, 2009.  For more 
information about the NAU School of Forestry, please visit our website 
(http://www.for.nau.edu/cms/).  Additional information about graduate 
applications and requirements can be found at: 
http://www.for.nau.edu/cms/content/view/477/640/