MS or PHD position - Landscape Ecology (11/14)

MS or PHD position - Landscape Ecology (11/14)
Graduate Assistantship: Wetland Ephemerality and Biodiversity Patterns
I am recruiting a MS or PhD graduate fellow to investigate how long-term changes in climate will
impact wetlands (distribution, abundance, water quality) and biodiversity in range systems. This position
will be part of a team of students addressing complimentary (but independent) questions. The effects of
climate change are critically important in semi-arid systems where water is the ultimate limiting factor.
Water availability is predicted to decrease across rangelands regardless of precipitation due to
temperature-related increases in vegetative evapotranspiration rates. In addition, annual water supply in
high elevation systems is dependent on spring snowmelt from the mountains which may be significantly
impacted by shifts in precipitation timing. Water shortage has negative consequences for both biodiversity
and human resource use.
The selected student will use field-based and remotely-sensed data to characterize wetlands and
quantify biodiversity under alternative scenarios of climate change. Depending on interests, the selected
student may have the opportunity to incorporate molecular methods to quantify biodiversity (eDNA) and
landscape connectivity (landscape genetics approaches). Prospective students with a background in
natural resources, ecology, and/or population genetics are encouraged to apply. Evidence of robust
analytical skills, strong work ethic, scientific writing, passion for scientific inquiry, ability to work under
harsh field conditions and aptitude for collaborative research are expected. To apply, please send a
statement of interest, complete CV, unofficial transcripts, unofficial GRE scores, and contact information
for three professional references as a single PDF file to melanie.murphy@uwyo.edu.
My spatial ecology and landscape genetics research group is focused on understanding fine-scale
distribution and functional connectivity of animal species in ecological systems
(https://sites.google.com/site/murphylabuwyo/). University of Wyoming (www.uwyo.edu) is ideally located
in Laramie, Wyoming with easy access to varied field sites and outdoor recreation opportunities. In
addition, the campus is only 1 hour from Fort Collins and 2 hours from Denver, CO.
Requirements: GRE 300 (verbal + quantitative – or equivalent ~1200 on old system), GPA 3.0 (BS)/ 3.3
(MS). Students with GRE 309+ may qualify for a fellowship enhancement. Closing date: Preference for
complete applications received by Nov. 23, 2014. Review of applicants will begin immediately. Send
materials to Dr. Melanie Murphy (melanie.murphy@uwyo.edu). PhD students are encouraged to apply to
the innovative Program in Ecology (www.uwyo.edu/pie), an integrated, interdepartmental PhD program in
ecological science. Position starts January 2015.
LAND HEALTH ASSESSMENT FIELD TECHNICIAN (11/14)
The Great Basin Institute, in cooperation with the Bureau of Land Management Southern Nevada District
Office, is recruiting two field technicians for a land health assessment team. This team will consist of three
members, including a Crew Lead, and will comprise environmental scientists (ecologists) having diverse
areas of training and expertise to work cooperatively in a field-based setting. The overall objective of the
team is to perform land health assessments through inventory and monitoring of geomorphic, vegetative
and hydrologic characteristics of the landscape. Data are utilized for adaptive management decisions,
restoration projects, and/or to improve wildlife habitat to achieve a healthy and productive ecological
condition.
General field duties include walking long distances over uneven terrain while carry equipment. Overnight
camping will be required. Field Technicians will collect GPS and photo points, identify soil characteristics,
and vegetative demographics and distribution. Office tasks may include assisting with data organization,
plant identification, processing and QA/QC; post-processing GPS points; and contributing to report
writing.
Compensation:
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$12,800 Living Allowance
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$2,822 AmeriCorps Education Award
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Student loan forbearance and interest accrual
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Daily field per diem
Contract length: January 27th 2015– July 24th, 2015
Location: This position will be based out of the BLM Southern Nevada District Office in Las Vegas,
Nevada. Terrain is typical of the Mojave Desert, with wide long valleys bordered by mountain ranges.
Field conditions include hot, arid days with high exposure to the sun, and potentially cold, damp winter
weather. Resources include desert tortoise habitat, big game habitat, Wilderness Study Areas, active
grazing allotments, abandoned mine lands, historic and prehistoric cultural sites, and wild horse
management areas.
How to Apply:
Qualified and interested applicants should forward a cover letter, their résumé, and a list of three
professional references to Amy Gladding, Human Resources Coordinator
at agladding@thegreatbasininstitute.org. Please include how you heard about this position. Incomplete
applications will not be considered. No phone inquiries, please.
This program is available to all, without regard to race, color, national origin, disability, age, sex, sexual
orientation, political affiliation, or religion. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. This position
will not have recurring access to vulnerable populations defined as children 17 and under; adults 60 or
older; or individuals with disabilities.
This position does not duplicate work of previous or existing employees or volunteers, supplant the hiring
of workers, or include service or duties that have been performed or were performed by a current
employee, an employee who recently resigned or was discharged, an employee subject to a reduction in
work force, or an employee who is on leave.
Qualifications:
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Bachelor’s degree in one of the major natural sciences; applicants with a background in soils or
botany preferred;
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Understanding of basic principles related to field science and data collection.
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Be able to utilize dichotomous keys for plant identification, knowledge and/or field experience of
plant ecology in the Mojave Desert region.
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Familiarity in describing and sampling soils, experience in soil texturing, identifying soil horizons, and
soil properties.
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Ability to navigate and set a bearing using a compass and to read a topographical map;
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Ability to collect data using handheld GPS units, preferred;
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Ability to communicate effectively, both written and orally, with a diverse audience;
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Willingness to work collaboratively in a team setting;
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Physically fit to work outdoors, carry personal and field equipment, and withstand working and
camping in an arid, desert environment;
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Possess a clean, valid, state-issued driver’s license and the ability to operate a 4WD vehicle on and
off paved roads; and
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Meet AmeriCorps eligibility requirements: (1) U.S. citizenship or legal resident alien status, (2)
eligible to receive an AmeriCorps Education Award (limit of four in a lifetime or the equivalent of two
full-time education awards), and (3) pass National Sex Offender Public Registry (NSOPR) and federal
criminal background checks.
M.S. Project in Wildlife Science at Mississippi State University (11/14)
“Reproductive Ecology of White-tailed Deer”
Project Description: We seek a highly qualified and motivated student
interested in pursuing a Master of Science degree in the field of
applied wildlife ecology. This project will investigate major
hypotheses from the ungulate ecology literature, including the role of
female choice in a polygynous, tending-bond mating strategy and the
effect of timing of conception on offspring sex ratio and its
implications for lifetime breeding success.
Compensation: A research stipend ($17,000-18,000 per year) and payment
of tuition and health insurance is provided. The student is responsible
for certain fees.
Beginning date: July, 2015.
Closing Date: when acceptable candidate is located.
Qualifications: Background in wildlife ecology, zoology, or related
discipline. Desirable qualifications include a high degree of
motivation, developed quantitative and writing skills, good peopleskills with an ability to work as part of a research team, and GRE
scores above 160. Experience with captive deer research facilities is
beneficial but not required. The candidate must be able to participate
in capture and handling of live deer.
Application: To apply, please email the following: (1) cover letter
describing credentials and professional goals; (2) a resume; (3) three
letters of reference emailed separately; and (4) a copy of university
transcripts and GRE/TOEFL scores. Formal application to MSU, including
official transcripts and GRE, is required subsequent to selection of the
successful candidate.
Dr. Steve Demarais
Dale Arner Distinguished Professor
Fellow of The Wildlife Society
Department of Wildlife, Fisheries & Aquaculture
Mississippi State University
sdemarais@cfr.msstate.edu
Cell: 662-418-2285
Web page: http://www.cfr.msstate.edu
Undergraduate Marine Science REU opportunity (11/14)
The University of Texas Marine Science Institute REU Program is accepting applications for our summer
research opportunity for undergraduates. Our program is looking for eight talented undergraduates who
are dedicated, detail-oriented, hardworking and interested in marine science.
Our program offers research in the areas such as marine biogeochemistry; coastal watersheds; estuarine
ecology; microbial, phytoplankton & zooplankton ecology; and fish physiology and population
biology. The program includes ten weeks of research, field trips, seminars and workshops, culminating in
a symposium where the students will present their accomplishments. Student projects take advantage of
the wide variety of coastal habitats near the Institute, including shallow bays, hypersaline lagoons,
seagrass beds, estuaries, mangroves, and marshes. It is a great opportunity to gain valuable research
experience and spend a summer by the sea!
We will be accepting applications until February 9, 2015. Required application materials include an online
application, unofficial transcripts, professor recommendation forms and recommendation letters from two
professors. Students must be currently enrolled as an undergraduate and be U.S. citizens or permanent
residents of the U.S. and its possessions. We welcome applications from High school graduates, transfer
students, and students enrolled at community colleges.
Students will receive a stipend of $5,000 for the ten-week program, subsidized housing, a research
allowance, a travel allowance, and a food allowance. The program runs from June 1st - August 7th, 2015.
Interested applicants can check out our website at http://reu.utmsi.utexas.edu, or contact Dr. Benjamin
Walther and Dr. Deana Erdner at utmsi.reu@gmail.com
M.S. Position Available for Spring 2015 to Study Thornscrub Forest
Revegetation for Ocelot Use (11/14)
I am seeking a MS-level graduate student to conduct research on revegetation efforts and ocelot use at
the Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge (LANWR) in deep South Texas. The student will join a
collaborative team of researchers, including scientists from the University of Texas – Brownsville
(UTB) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). The student will work to (1) map and digitally
document all previous revegetation efforts at LANWR, (2) groundtruth revegetated areas to
photodocument their current status and measure attributes of vegetation status, including size and
composition, (3) overlay GPS locations of collared ocelots on revegetation maps to determine if
revegetated areas are being used as corridors and to what extent, and (4) delineate potential corridors to
target for future revegetation. Findings will be used to determine the effectiveness of previous
revegetation efforts for creating habitat and corridors for ocelots and as an aid to prioritize areas for the
revegetation of potential high use areas as new corridors.
The position will begin in spring 2015, and the student will be employed as a Teaching Assistant (TA) in
the Department of Biological Sciences at UTB (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.
As a TA, the student will be expected to work 19 hours/week as assistant instructor in undergraduate
biology laboratory classes, assist his/her faculty teaching mentor with laboratory preparation and grading,
and participate in departmental outreach events. The successful applicant will be expected to enroll full
time in the UTB Biology Master’s program pursuing the thesis option. The available teaching
assistantship has a $1,100 per month stipend during the academic year, is benefits eligible, and includes
a waiver for in-state-tuition for out-of-state students. Please note that tuition is the student’s responsibility
and is ~$2500/semester. There is a strong likelihood that this student could receive a summer internship
at LANWR and have the opportunity to work closely with biologists at USFWS.
Interested applicants should send to Dr. Heather Alexander (heather.alexander@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. Application
materials are due by December 1, 2014.
MS/PhD positions: water webs and river ecology (11/14)
MS/PhD positions are available in the lab of Dr. Kevin McCluney (
http://blogs.bgsu.edu/mccluneylab/) at Bowling Green State University.
Research in the McCluney lab focuses on the effects of water on animal
ecology at multiple scales, in multiple ecosystems, including 1) water
limitation in streamside and urban food webs (water webs), 2) controls on
aquatic-terrestrial linkages in streams, rivers, and lakes, and 3) the
structure and functioning of large riverine systems (macrosystems).
Particular emphasis is placed on how changes to the quality and spatial and
temporal distribution of water (driven by climate change and other human
alterations) influences animals. Top applicants will receive year-round
support through a combination of teaching and research assistantships.
Interested students should email kmcclun@bgsu.edu with a cover letter and a
CV (including GPA and GRE scores), well before submitting an official
application to the graduate college (due: February 1st, 2015). For
pre-requisites and other info on applying, see:
http://www.bgsu.edu/arts-and-sciences/biological-sciences/graduate-programs/prospective-students.html
BGSU is a high research, public university, with ~20,000 students, located
in NW Ohio, 30 min south of Toledo and ~ 1 hr from Ann Arbor and Detroit.
Lab Webpage: http://blogs.bgsu.edu/mccluneylab/
M.S. Graduate Opportunity: Reptile and Amphibian Conservation (11/14)
Location: SUNY-ESF (Syracuse, NY) / Home Of Franklin D Roosevelt National
Historic Site (Poughkeepsie, NY)
Start Date: Jan 15 or May 1 2015
Last Date to Apply: 15 Dec 2015 (we are eager to fill this position so applications considered when
received)
Description: SUNY-ESF in collaboration with the US National Park Service seek a highly motivated
student with strong academic credentials and an avid interest in reptile and amphibian conservation to
undertake a two-pronged project at the Home Of Franklin D Roosevelt National Historic Site (HOFR)
near New York City during 2015 and 2016: an inventory of amphibian and reptile communities on the
nearly 1,000 acre property and researching threats and conservation measures for an endangered turtle
species present. The team will consist of a crew leader and two field assistants(field assistants will be
recruited in early 2015 through separate announcement). We will use a variety of approaches to inventory
the site’s amphibian and reptile community including calling frog surveys, pitfall trapping, hoop netting,
and visual searches and perform targeted research on the endangered turtle species present. The
successful applicant for this position will serve as crew leader and would be enrolled in SUNY-ESF’s
Department of Forest and Environmental Biology (http://www.esf.edu/efb/) and conduct their thesis
research at HOFR (http://www.nps.gov/hofr/index.htm). Ability to work independently yet collaboratively
as part of a university-National Park Service research team is critical. A strong interest in reptile and
amphibian conservation and field surveys is essential as is interest in advancing NPS natural resources
protections; prior experience with amphibian and reptile fieldwork is helpful.
Acceptance is conditional on the applicant being selected for a teaching assistantship or graduate
fellowship through SUNY-ESF. The candidate will develop a research project that overlaps with their
research interests while still achieving the NPS’s goals of amphibian and reptile inventory of the site.
Application deadline to be considered for assistantship support at SUNY-ESF is Dec. 15 2014 for spring
semester start or Mar 1 2015 for fall semester start. For either start date candidate must commit to both
field seasons (May 1-Aug 15 2015 and 2016). Information about the application process can be found
at: http://www.esf.edu/graduate/admission.htm
Qualifications: Minimum qualifications include a B.S. degree in ecology, zoology, conservation biology,
wildlife biology or related discipline. Undergraduate GPA should be => 3.0 and GRE scores of => 1000
(300 in new system). Only applicants with a strong academic record should apply.
Applicants should submit their CV (including GPA and GRE scores), contacts for at least three
references, and a one-page letter describing their research interests as they relate to this position and
stating their desired starting date to Dr. James P. Gibbs: jpgibbs@esf.edu. More information
about Dr. Gibbs’ lab can be found at: http://www.esf.edu/efb/gibbs/.
Contact person: Dr. James P. Gibbs
Graduate Study in Forest Ecology (11/14)
We offer a well-rounded program in Forest Ecology at both the Masters and PhD levels. Set in the
forested hills of the Allegheny plateau, our faculty pursue research in a wide range to topics including
biological invasion, urban ecology, re-establishment of American chestnut, landscape history, carbon
balance in trees, and the nitrogen and phosphorous dynamics of forest soils. We are presently seeking
graduate students to fill three positions beginning summer or fall 2015. All positions are fully funded
including tuition waivers. If you are interested, take a look at our websites:
Brian McCarthy – community and restoration ecology
http://www.plantbio.ohiou.edu/index.php/directory/faculty_page/brian_mccarthy/
Glenn Matlack – population and invasion biology; landscape ecology
http://www.plantbio.ohiou.edu/index.php/directory/faculty_page/glenn_matlack/
David Rosenthal – physiological ecology; carbon budgets
http://www.plantbio.ohiou.edu/index.php/directory/faculty_page/david_m_rosenthal/
Jared Deforest – soil and ecosystem ecology
http://www.plantbio.ohiou.edu/index.php/directory/faculty_page/jared_deforest/
We are looking for capable students to join our Urban Forest research team at the Masters or PhD
level. Research is broadly focused on the contributions of trees and woodlands to urban ecosystems
including effects on microclimate and infrastructure, modification of the sonic environment, wildlife
interactions, and human perception. We are studying the population dynamics of the urban forest, using
remote sensing and ground surveys to characterize change in urban tree communities through time
across gradients of urban development and land ownership. In addition to research commitments,
students will take courses and serve as teaching assistants in the Department of Environmental and Plant
Biology. The positions are fully funded including tuition waivers.
We are looking for a capable student to join our Forest History research team at the Masters or PhD
level. The team uses remote sensing and spatial modeling to reconstruct the recent history of deciduous
forests and project distributions of non-commercial species in response to climate change. Spatial
analysis complements vegetation surveys in testing disturbance history, fragment geometry, physical
gradients, and plant life history as factors shaping modern species distributions. In addition to research
commitments, students take courses and serve as teaching assistants in the Department of
Environmental and Plant Biology. Both positions are fully funded including tuition waivers.
Applicants should have a GPA of at least 3.2 and GREs above the 50th percentile. A strong work ethic,
quantitative skills, and the ability work independently are essential. Applicants should be physically fit
and capable of field work under less-than-ideal conditions. Previous field experience is desirable.
The Department of Environmental and Plant Biology (http://www.plantbio.ohiou.edu/ ) is a community of
mutually supportive faculty and students at Ohio University. The University is situated in the quaint city of
Athens, nestled in the forested hills of the Allegheny Plateau. Applications must be received by January
15; starting time is flexible. Application procedures are described at
http://www.plantbio.ohiou.edu/index.php/grad/admission_app . If you are interested please contact Glenn
Matlack at Matlack@ohio.edu. See my web page at
http://www.plantbio.ohiou.edu/index.php/directory/faculty_page/glenn_matlack/ .
Contract Env Consultant - Avian & Bat Specialist, Great Plains & Midwest
(11/14)
Burns & McDonnell is seeking an entry-level assistant environmental scientist for its Kansas City,
Missouri Headquarters location. This position will involve conducting and assisting with habitat
assessments and wildlife surveys. The ideal candidate should have the following skills and experience.
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Avian species identification skills ( both sight and sound)
Avian point count survey experience
Raptor migration survey experience
Raptor nest and roosting survey experience
Bat acoustical monitoring experience
Habitat and wetland identification and delineation experience
Ability to prepare technical reports and permitting documents
A strong familiarity with GPS and GIS is also preferred. General data recording and generation of maps
and other figures to support permit applications required. Work includes a mix of field assessments, data
recording, report/permit preparation and travel. Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications: The successful candidate must be self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to collaborate
in a team setting. Excellent technical writing and verbal communication skills are required along with the
willingness to travel overnight and work extended hours in a field setting. Strong analytical and problem
solving skills preferred. B.S. or M.S. in environmental science or wildlife biology preferred. Candidates
with coursework and experience in wildlife, environmental permitting and regulations, and ecology are
preferred. Prior permitting experience a plus.
Please contact Justin Bailey at jbailey@burnsmcd.com<mailto:jbailey@burnsmcd.com> for more
information.
Bryan Gasper
Senior Environmental Scientist/Wildlife Biologist
Environmental Studies & Permitting Group
Burns & McDonnell
9400 Ward Parkway
Kansas City, MO 64114
Direct: 816-349-6770
www.burnsmcd.com<http://www.burnsmcd.com/>
Job Opportunity: Land Management Specialist(s) (11/14)
Description: Working collaboratively with BLM Winnemucca District, the
Great Basin Institute (GBI) is recruiting to hire up to five (5) Land
Mangement Specialists in a variety of disciplines. The Specialists will
support development of a comprehensive Environmental Analysis (EA) with
FONSI and Decision Record (DR). The objective of the overall EA planning
effort is to provide the BLM with a defensible NEPA document to support
the final decision for proposed range improvements. The EA will address
a wide variety of BLM program areas. The successful applicant will work
in an interdisciplinary (ID) team setting and be exposed to a myriad of
resource areas including natural and cultural resources, recreation and
wilderness, hydrology, wildlife, and rangeland management, as well
environmental monitoring. The selected candidate will be exposed to a
federal land management work environment and will receive training in
the appropriate areas needed.
Rate of Pay: $23.00/hour
Benefits: Affordable Care Act-compliant health insurance (medical,
dental and vision); paid holidays, sick and personal leave; 401(k)
retirement Plan
Timeline: 15-month appointment beginning in December 2014, or upon
availability and adjudication of a Department of Interior Federal
Background Investigation
Full details, including qualifications for individual Specialist
positions and instructions for how to apply, can be found in the
Research Associate employment section of GBI's Website:
www.thegreatbasininstitute.org/employment/research-associatesemployment/
Graduate Positions in Invasion Ecology (11/7)
Graduate Positions in Invasion Ecology - applications open
Peter M. Kotanen
Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
University of Toronto, Mississauga
http://www.utm.utoronto.ca/~w3pkota/
I am looking for Ph.D. and M.Sc. students for investigations into the ecology of plants and their natural
enemies (herbivores and pathogens) in Ontario and elsewhere. Recent work by my lab has centred on
the effects of these enemies on non-native species. We have used field experiments and surveys to test
whether alien plants experience reduced rates of insect and pathogen damage, as predicted by the
Enemy Release Hypothesis, and whether damage depends upon phylogeny, latitude, population
isolation, and other factors. Information on our research can be found at my home page
(www.utm.utoronto.ca/~w3pkota).
We are a thriving department at a leading research institution, with excellent resources and many
opportunities for interaction and collaboration. All graduate students are guaranteed a stable minimum
income, currently around $24,000 from a variety of sources, as well as support for research and
conference travel; it also is welcome if you have your own fellowship support! Information on application
procedures and our tri-campus graduate program can be found at http://www.eeb.utoronto.ca/grad.htm;
applications for 2015 are now open, and we begin to review them on January 9. Interested students
should first contact me via e-mail: peter.kotanen@utoronto.ca.
Some recent publications:
Kambo, D. and P.M. Kotanen (2014) Latitudinal trends in herbivory and performance of an invasive
species, common burdock (Arctium minus). Biological Invasions 16: 101-112.
Dunn, A.M., M.E. Torchin, M.J. Hatcher, P.M. Kotanen, D.M. Blumenthal, J.E. Byers, C.A.C. Coon, V.M.
Frankel, R.D. Holt, R.A. Hufbauer, A.R. Kanarek,K.A. Schierenbeck, L.M. Wolfe, and S. E. Perkins
(2012) Indirect effects of parasites on invasions. Functional Ecology 26: 1262-1274.
Hill S.B. and P.M. Kotanen (2011) Phylogenetic structure predicts capitular damage to Asteraceae better
than origin or phylogenetic distance to natives. Oecologia 166: 843-851.
MacDonald A.A.M. & P.M. Kotanen (2010) The effects of disturbance and enemy exclusion on
performance of an invasive species, common ragweed, in its native range. Oecologia 162: 977-986.
Graduate positions in evolutionary ecology (11/7)
PhD and MS positions are available in lab of Mark Christie at Purdue
University. Two positions are available for highly-motivated candidates
interested in genetic adaptation, dispersal, and conservation and
population genetics. For more information on research in the Christie lab
please visit: http://markrchristie.wordpress.com
Potential projects include: 1. Examining the rapid adaptation of
introduced fishes into the Great Lakes, 2. Identifying the genetic and
evolutionary consequences of domestication, captive breeding, and
supplementation of wild populations, and 3. Using existing and novel
approaches to determine patterns of dispersal within a metapopulation
context. These are the main research themes in the Christie laboratory,
with research often focusing on fishes, but graduate students are free to
explore independent lines of inquiry in any system. Previous research
experience with molecular techniques, computational work, statistics,
bioinformatics, and assisting with the design and implementation of
experiments will be highly regarded.
If you are interested in joining the lab, please contact me directly at
markchristie@purdue.edu with a resume/CV and a brief description of your
research interests and experience.
NEON Hiring - Field Technicians - Multiple Locations (11/7)
NEON is hiring Field Technicians in the following locations!!!
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Puerto Rico
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Alabama
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Tennessee
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Massachusetts
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Kansas
For more details and online application visit our careers page at http://www.neoninc.org/contact/careers
COMPANY OVERVIEW
The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a $430 million dollar observatory project
dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. For
the next three decades NEON will collect a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental
scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. NEON will use cutting edge
technology including an airborne observation platform that will capture images of regional landscapes and
vegetation; mobile, re-locatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor
soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who will observe and sample populations of diverse
organisms and collect soil and water data. A leading edge cyber-infrastructure will calibrate, store and
publish this information. The Observatory will grow to 300+ personnel and will be the first of its kind
designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales.
GENERAL DUTIES INCLUDE:
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Report activities, completed work, and sampling problems according to Field Operations protocols.
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Inspect, maintain and operate field, safety and laboratory equipment.
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Operate laboratory equipment (e.g. Wiley Mill, drying oven, analytical balance, centrifugal mill, pH
meter, microscope, and muffle furnace).
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Assist the Field Operations Manager with recruiting and training of seasonal field personnel.
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Provide instruction and technical guidance to seasonal field personnel.
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Perform plot establishment by locating plots with GPS navigation as well as measuring and
marking plots.
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Assist the Field Operations Manager with materials planning, inventory and ordering as well as
day-to-day oversight of personnel and scheduling of activities coordinated from the field office.
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Follow NEON safety and Field Operations policy and procedures.
FIELD ACTIVITIES MAY INCLUDE:
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Follow established, standardized field protocols for sample collection and handling; record and
verify accuracy of data from sample collections; process samples in the laboratory; send samples to
external analytical labs. Train and lead field crews performing the aforementioned items.
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Perform other field sampling activities as assigned including: ground beetle collection (pitfall
trapping), mosquito collection (CO2 light traps, tick collection (dragging and flagging) and soil core
collection.
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Test, troubleshoot and operate tower, soil and aquatic instruments, calibration equipment and test
fixtures.
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Inspect and maintain civil infrastructure including boom arms, sensor mounts, towers, boardwalks
and instrument huts.
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Monitor and sample aquatic sites for water quality, biological indicators and physical properties of
site (e.g. gaging streams, geomorphic mapping).
NEON offers competitive salaries (DOE) with a substantial benefits package.
For more details and online application visit our careers page at http://www.neoninc.org/contact/careers
Graduate Assistantships: Plant-insect interactions (11/7)
Fred M. van Eck Scholarships
Hardwood Tree Improvement and Regeneration Center
Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue University
The Hardwood Tree Improvement and Regeneration Center (HTIRC) at Purdue University is seeking
outstanding candidates interested in working toward M.S. or Ph.D. degrees. The HTIRC is a
collaborative regional research organization of industry, state and federal agency, and university
partners, administratively located in the Department of Forestry and Natural Resources at Purdue
University. Funding for the van Eck Scholarships is provided by the Fred M. van Eck Foundation for
Purdue University whose purpose is to support research in the genetic improvement of high-value
North American hardwood tree species.
Areas of research include: 1) chemically-mediated host colonization and mating behavior of bark
and ambrosia beetles affecting native hardwoods; 2) enhanced detection methods for the walnut
twig beetle and thousand cankers disease; and 3) exploring mechanisms of ash resistance to
emerald ash borer (EAB) and increasing the efficacy of its biological control agents.
Ideal students should be highly motivated and enthusiastic about working in the areas of forest
entomology and chemical and behavioral ecology. Candidates should have well-developed
quantitative skills, knowledge and experience in the biological sciences, a GPA of at least 3.4 and a
top-tier GRE score (above the 60th percentile).
Assistantships will be awarded at $18,500 (M.S.) and $21,000 (Ph.D.) per year. In addition, an
annual budget ($10,000) will be available for research support and a laptop computer will be
provided for the duration of the scholarship.
For admission for fall semester (August 2015), applications must be received by December 12,
2014 (M.S. and Ph.D). Interested individuals should contact me directly via email
(mginzel@purdue.edu) to discuss their background, qualifications, and research interests. Please
also provide a short (one page) letter of interest and a CV that includes cumulative GPA, GRE scores
and contact information for at least three references.
More information on this scholarship opportunity can be found at www.htirc.org.
M.S. opportunity: Soil Ecology in the Pacific Northwest (11/7)
Soil Ecology in the Pacific Northwest
Seeking a Master of Science student for the Department of Environmental Sciences in Huxley College
at Western Washington University. Research will focus on the plant response to soil biota in natural,
disturbed and restored systems. One year of funding is available via TA-ship and tuition waiver, with
second year likely.
Research projects will be developed with student. Possible foci are (1) the function of mycorrhizal
fungi and common mycorrhizal networks in revegetation of recently dewatered reservoirs on the
Elwha River and (2) the effects of mycorrhizae on host plants across stress gradients (e.g. pH,
temperature, drought, grazing, invasion, etc.). The duties of this position may include field sampling
of plant roots and soil, growing plants in a greenhouse, processing plant and soil samples,
microscope work, and analyzing different types of data. Requirements of degree and other
information can be found at
http://west.wwu.edu/gradschool/programs/program_details.asp?Program=1018.
Information about our lab can be found here:
http://www.wwu.edu/soilecologylab/index.shtml
Competitive candidates for this position will have a B.S. degree in environmental science or closely
related discipline, proficiency in written and oral communication, strong GRE scores, and evidence of
scholastic success (e.g. previous research experience).
Interested students should email a brief statement of their research interests, a resume, GRE scores,
and (unofficial) transcripts to:
Rebecca Bunn
Assistant Professor
Dept. of Environmental Sciences
Huxley College
Western Washington University
Bellingham, Washington
email: rebecca.bunn@wwu.edu
Deadline to apply to graduate school is February 1, 2015.
TROPICAL FOREST RESEARCH EXPERIENCE - CANOPY THINNING
EXPERIMENT (11/7)
UNIVERSITY OF PUERTO RICO - RIO PIEDRAS
LUQUILLO LONG-TERM ECOLOGICAL RESEARCH PROGRAM
TROPICAL FOREST RESEARCH EXPERIENCE - CANOPY THINNING EXPERIMENT
January 20th through May 22nd, 2015
Complete applications must be submitted by November 15, 2014
RESEARCH DESCRIPTION: The Luquillo Long-Term Ecological Research Program of the University of
Puerto Rico, International Institute of Tropical Forestry and collaborating institutions will carry out a tree
canopy trimming experiment in plots established at the El Verde Field Station in the Luquillo
Experimental Forest, Puerto Rico. The first trim manipulation was conducted in 2004 and the second trim
manipulation will be completed by the end of 2014. The purpose of the study is to determine the effects
of distinct components of hurricane damage on forested ecosystem characteristics such as tree species
composition, soil processes, and food web dynamics. For this project we need three (3) to five (5)
volunteer interns to assist in field work that includes measuring seedling dynamics, taking litterfall
measurements, conducting soil sampling, and other routine field measurements.
See http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.foreco.2014.04.024 and citations within for a detailed description of the
project.
Volunteers will spend long hours in the field (8am until 4 pm, Mon-Fri, with weekends free), often in very
wet and muddy conditions. Studies of vertebrates and invertebrates will require work at night, so
volunteers must be comfortable working in the forest at night using headlamps. While in Puerto Rico
volunteers will have the opportunity to learn about diverse aspects of tropical ecology from scientists
involved in the Luquillo Long-Term Ecological Research Program.
REQUIREMENTS: College graduates with background in biology, ecology, or environmental science,
preferably with field-work experience, knowledge of plant identification, and excellent organizational
skills. Tropical experience useful, but is not required. We are currently only considering US citizens and
permanent US residents for these opportunities.
PERIOD: January 20th through May 22nd, 2015.
STIPEND: $600 per month to cover food and general living expenses.
ACCOMMODATION: Free accommodation at El Verde Field Station in Puerto Rico. Housing is
communal using shared resources. The field station is relatively isolated and transportation is available
on a limited basis.
TRAVEL: Refund of up to $750 towards a round-trip plane ticket from mainland USA, if not already living
in Puerto Rico.
NOTE: We are unable to provide any medical insurance.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Interested applicants must fill out the online
Application Form (https://sites.google.com/a/ites.upr.edu/el-verde-field-station/internships/luquillo-forestdynamics-plot-internship-opportunities/lfdp-internship-application ).
The following additional materials must also be submitted via email to Sarah
Stankavich, the LTER coordinator, at lfdp@ites.upr.edu: 1) A letter of interest indicating why you wish to
work in the tropical forest and describing your relevant experience. Include a statement that
you understand your application is for a volunteer position; 2) Full resume; 3) University transcripts
(scanned unofficial transcripts are fine).
All email attachments must include the name of the applicant as part of the file name. Please indicate
that you are applying for the CTE volunteer position in the subject line of the e-mail. Please email further
inquiries to lfdp@ites.upr.edu Following phone interviews, we will inform successful applicants in early
December.
For more information about the Luquillo LTER research program and the El Verde Field Station, please
see http://luq.lternet.edu/, and http://www.ites.upr.edu/EVFS/.
Graduate Student position in fire ecology, Michigan State University (11/7)
One graduate student position is available on a joint project between
Michigan State University’s Department of Forestry and the USDA Forest
Service Northern Research Station to investigate the long-term ecological
impacts of prescribed fire in red pine ecosystems. The student will be
responsible for evaluating responses of forest soils to fire treatments in
a long-term forest restoration experiment. The student will also be
expected to develop independent research questions related to the overall
objectives of the project.
Strong written, verbal and computation skills are essential. Prior
experience participating in or leading field research or monitoring
projects is desired. Successful applicants will be expected to work
independently as well as collaboratively as an active member of a research
group, conduct field work in variable weather conditions, and perform
detailed laboratory analyses with a high level of precision. Master’s and
PhD-level applicants will be considered.
The student will be co-advised by Dr. Jessica Miesel at MSU (
https://www.msu.edu/~mieselje/) and Dr. Christel Kern at the USDA Forest
Service Northern Research Station (http://www.nrs.fs.fed.us/people/Kern).
The student will be based at Michigan State University in East Lansing, MI
during the academic year, with extended summer travel to perform fieldwork
in northern Minnesota.
To express interest, please send: (1) a statement of research
interests/background and professional goals, (2) a CV, (3) a list of 3-4
professional references (names and contact information), (4) GRE scores,
and (5) TOEFL scores (international students only) to Dr. Jessica Miesel at
mieselje@msu.edu.
Funding is available for outstanding applicants. For full consideration,
interested students should apply to the MSU Graduate School (
http://grad.msu.edu/apply/online.aspx) before December 15, 2014. Successful
applicants will be housed in the Department of Forestry, with opportunity
to participate in MSU’s interdisciplinary Ecology, Evolutionary Biology and
Behavior program (http://eebb.msu.edu/) (ranked among the top Ecology &
Evolutionary Biology PhD programs by the National Research Council) and/or
the Environmental Science & Policy Program (
http://www.espp.msu.edu/index.php).
For more information about the Department of Forestry, go tohttp://www.for.msu.edu/.
Questions about the position should be directed to Jessica Miesel (mieselje@msu.edu).
Job: Marine Ecology research coordinator (11/7)
The UCSB Marine Science Institute is seeking to hire a highly qualified
Specialist at the Junior/Assistant or Associate level in marine ecology to
work with the Santa Barbara Channel Biodiversity Observation Network. The
overall objective of this project is to assess biodiversity of a broad
suite of marine organisms across space and time in benthic and pelagic
habitats of the Channel using diverse methodologies.
The qualified individual will work closely with the project’s investigators
in the development and implementation of the project’s research
activities. Principal duties include: organize and lead a diverse team in
subtidal and oceanographic field research; manage laboratory activities
such as equipment maintenance, sample processing, data entry and quality
assurance, and protocol documentation; manage large data sets and perform
an assortment of data analyses; conduct literature searches and assist in
manuscript preparation; supervise and mentor undergraduate student
assistants.
Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant scientific
field and extensive field experience in marine habitats. Desired skills
include: advanced training in research diving and boating with AAUS
certification; in-depth knowledge of taxonomy and identification of
southern California marine algae, invertebrates, and fish; experience in
designing sampling protocols; familiarity with biological oceanographic and
deep-sea sampling techniques; experience using underwater imaging systems;
ability to manage, analyze and synthesize diverse types of ecological and
environmental data; strong organizational and communication skills;
experience mentoring and supervising research assistants; and a strong
desire to work on highly interdisciplinary problems with a diverse team of
investigators, postdocs, and students.
The position will be located on the UCSB campus and field research will
take place in the Santa Barbara Channel. Some multiday research cruises may
be required. The appointment is full time with competitive health and
retirement benefits. The position is available immediately and
applications will be considered until the position is filled. Primary
consideration is December 1, 2014
https://recruit.ap.ucsb.edu/apply/JPF00413
Please include a cover letter stating your research accomplishments and
interests, a curriculum vitae, and contact information for references.
The department is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to
the diversity and excellence of the academic community through research,
teaching and service. The University of California is an Equal
Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will
receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color,
religion, sex, national origin, or any other characteristic protected by
law including protected Veterans and individuals with disabilities.
JOB: Avian Field Technician (11/7)
FIELD TECHNICIAN (1) One field technician is needed as soon as possible to
assist in an ongoing study of red-cockaded woodpecker (RCW) home ranges as
they relate to neighboring group density and foraging habitat
characteristics. Study sites include The Savannah River Site, a National
Environmental Research Park, located near Aiken, SC, and the Carolina
Sandhills NWR, located in McBee, SC. The technician primarily will collect
data on The Savannah River Site, but there will be opportunities to assist
on the Carolina Sandhills NWR. Primary duties of the technician will
include use of a spotting scope to visually track RCWs and resight colorband combinations during all-day follows of RCW groups, collection of
vegetation data, and data entry. Work schedule will be 5 days/week, but
weekend work may be necessary from time to time. Salary will be $2,000–
$2,400/month and employment will last until 31 March 2015. Housing and
field vehicles will be provided.
Qualifications: Looking for hard-working, independent, and enthusiastic
individuals with interest in avian ecology. Applicants minimally should
possess a Bachelor’s degree in biology, wildlife ecology, or related field.
Demonstrated experience conducting avian surveys, excellent communication
skills, meticulous data collection, strong work ethic, and a positive
attitude are required. Applicants must be able to work independently and
interact positively (often remotely) with a collaborative research team.
Preference will be given to applicants that have experience working with
the RCW or resighting color-banded birds. Applicants should be in good
physical condition and enjoy working outdoors - the ability to hike and
work long hours in adverse conditions (hot and humid weather,
stinging/biting insects, venomous snakes) and in remote field sites is a
must. Other desirable skills include: proficiency with GPS units/tablet
computers, maps, compass, and MS Office (Access, Excel, Word). Selected
applicants will be subject to a criminal background check. Must have or be
willing to acquire a valid driver’s license before the start date of the
project. Must be U.S. citizen.
Last date to apply: 15 December 2014
Start date: As soon as possible.
Contact: Please email a cover letter outlining your interest in the
position, resume/CV, and contact information for three references to James
Garabedian (em: jegarabe AT ncsu.edu).
PhD Research Assistantship in Tropical Avian Ecology (11/7)
I am seeking a student to conduct their PhD research beginning summer 2015 in the Department of
Zoology and Physiology and Program in Ecology at the University of Wyoming. Opportunities exist to
conduct research on a variety of topics in population/community ecology including, but not limited to,
dispersal, reproductive behavior, demography, life histories, predation, and seed dispersal. The student
will interact not only with people at Univ. of Wyoming, but also with the Smithsonian Tropical Research
Institute. The candidate selected for this position will be provided with a 2 year assistantship that
includes a tuition waiver and monthly stipend.
Qualifications: Ideal candidate will possess either a B.S. degree in biology, wildlife ecology, natural
resource management, or a related field and 2+ years of field experience or a M.S. degree in the above
fields. Candidates must meet the minimum requirements of the University of Wyoming (min. GRE Score:
291 as of August 2011, or 900 if taken prior to August 2011, min. GPA: 3.0). Preference will be given to
applicants with experience in writing manuscripts and in tropical avian ecology. Ability to speak Spanish
is a plus. I am looking for a highly motivated individual that has the ability to develop an independent
project and to conduct tropical research for up to 8 months/year.
Contact: Dr. Corey E. Tarwater (coreytar@mail.ubc.ca), University of Wyoming, currently at University
of British Columbia. Please provide letter of interest, curriculum vitae, and contact information for 3
references familiar with your experience and qualifications. Review of applications will begin
immediately and continue until Nov. 30th.
The University of Wyoming is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All
qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion,
sex, national origin, disability or protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law
and University policy. Please see www.uwyo.edu/diversity/fairness
We conduct background investigations for all final candidates being considered for employment. Offers
of employment are contingent upon the completion of the background check.
Job-Biological Technician at Smithsonian Environmental Research Center,
Maryland (10/31)
The lab of Dr. John Parker<http://www.sercecology.com> at the Smithsonian Environmental Research
Center<http://www.serc.si.edu/> in Edgewater, Maryland is seeking a Biological Research Technician to
fill a full-time federal position. Current projects include: (1) effects of climate change on mangrove
distributions, (2) effects of tree diversity and succession status on forest dynamics, (3) mechanisms and
consequences of exotic plant invasions, and (4) effects of climate change on plant-insect interactions.
Duties will include project management, field work, data collection and analysis, database management,
supervision of volunteers and interns, and scientific writing. The applicant must be willing to travel
occasionally, able to lift at least 25 lbs, and work outside in standard field conditions. The successful
applicant will possess: (1) a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in ecology, environmental science,
geography, invasion biology, quantitative ecology, or a closely related discipline; (2) demonstrated field
and laboratory skills; and (3) excellent written and oral communication. Proficiency with statistics and
large datasets is a plus. This position includes a comprehensive benefits package. To apply: please send
application to USA Jobs via the full posting: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/385112600.
Deadline: November 14th, 2014.
-------------------------------------John D. Parker, Ph.D.
Senior Scientist
Smithsonian Environmental Research Center
647 Contees Wharf Road
Edgewater, MD 21037
443-482-2221
email: parkerj@si.edu
web: www.sercecology.com
Ph.D. & M.S. opportunities in landscape ecology (10/31)
I am seeking 1-2 graduate students to join my lab who are interested in landscape ecology pertaining to
potential climate and land-use change impacts on odonates (dragonflies and damselflies). For more
information about research done in my lab, please check out my webpage
at:http://www.biol.ttu.edu/faculty/nmcintyre/default.aspx.
Preference will be given to students with previous experience in GIS or remote sensing, and to Ph.D.
students who already have a Master's degree.
Prospective students will be funded (upon qualification) by a 9-month/year departmental Teaching
Assistantship and possibly by applicable graduate school fellowships (awards ranging from $2500 for 1
year to $30,000/yr for 3 years).
To apply, please send your Curriculum Vitae, which should include all of the following items:
*
a statement about your research interests and how they are compatible with the kinds of research
that I do
*
a statement about your career goals
*
GRE scores
*
a brief list of your academic and professional accomplishments (degrees, GPA, awards,
fellowships, publications, grants, presentations at professional meetings, jobs, etc.)
*
the names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses of 3 references
Students from outside the U.S. must also include TOEFL scores (Test of English as a Foreign Language),
if appropriate.
See http://www.depts.ttu.edu/gradschool/admissions/international/gradindex.php for more information for
international students, andhttp://www.depts.ttu.edu/gradschool/admissions/domestic/index.php for more
information for U.S. citizens.
Funds may be available to bring prospective students in for a campus visit.
Application deadline: 1 December 2014.
Nancy McIntyre, Ph.D.
Department of Biological Sciences
Texas Tech University
Lubbock, TX 79409-3131 USA
806-834-7977
nancy.mcintyre@ttu.edu<mailto:nancy.mcintyre@ttu.edu>
Northern Arizona University MS/PhD positions (10/31)
Northern Arizona University, Department of Biological Sciences & Merriam-Powell Center for
Environmental Research
MS/PhD positions in Biological Sciences
Application deadline: Jan 15, 2015
Graduate student positions are available in the Department of Biological Sciences for research
on topics including population genetics, plant community dynamics and ecosystem ecology,
notably carbon cycling and ecohydrology, in relation to global environmental change. The
successful applicant(s) will work with existing rainfall manipulation plots along a gradient from
desert to sub-alpine ecosystems as part of the NAU Southwest Experimental Garden Array.
For further information, please contact Dr. Brad Butterfield at Bradley.Butterfield@nau.edu.
The positions will begin August 2015. Research will be conducted under the direction of Dr.
Brad Butterfield of NAU; Dr. John Bradford, Dr. Seth Munson and Dr. Troy Wood of the United
States Geological Survey Southwest Biological Science Center (USGS SBSC); and Dr. Jennifer
Gremer of UC Davis.
Funding is provided in part by the USGS SBSC. At least two years of summer salary will be
provided, with salary and benefits provided through a TA position during the academic year. RA
salary may be available, pending funding.
Expected qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in Biology or a related field for a MS
position, including field and laboratory research experience. A Master’s degree or extensive
research experience are required for a PhD position.
The application must be submitted electronically at applyweb.com/northazg/. Prior to applying,
please include the following in an email to Bradley.Butterfield@nau.edu:
(Anticipated) degree date
CV
Contacts for up to 3 references
Any publications/posters/research documents
Questions regarding the graduate program application process should be directed to the NAU
Graduate College at (928) 523-4348 or graduate@nau.edu.
Northern Arizona University is located at 7000 feet elevation in the pine forests of Flagstaff, AZ.
We are a short drive to the Grand Canyon, Sedona, the Sonoran Desert, and skiing; and less
than a day’s drive to the Pacific Ocean, Utah canyon country and the Rocky Mountains.
Field Research Technician – Extent and Ecological Impa cts of Non-native
Earthworm Invasion on San Clemente Isl and, California (10/31)
A seasonal field research technician is needed from roughly 1 February through 30 April 2015 (exact
dates to be determined) to assist on an Oklahoma State University project investigating the spatial extent
and ecological effects of non-native earthworms on the historically earthworm-free San Clemente Island,
California (SCI). Invasive earthworms, including species from Europe and Asia, have been documented
to have adverse impacts on native plant and animal species and on ecosystem functions; however,
earthworm invasions in regions other than the eastern U.S. are poorly understood. The newly
documented invasion of non-native earthworms on SCI is a cause for conservation concern in the context
of the island’s many endangered and endemic plant and animal species and sub-species.
Responsibilities of this position will include operation of a Department of Defense vehicle (automatic
transmission), hiking to remote sampling locations using GPS and/or compass and map, sampling of
earthworms and vegetation, entry and management of data, and identification of earthworms using a
dissecting microscope. Applicants should be able to work in a remote field site under wet, windy, and/or
foggy conditions, spend long hours in the field, traverse rugged terrain, and work effectively both
independently and under a supervisor. The research technician will also have to work under the unique,
challenging, and dynamic logistical considerations associated with working on an active military
installation.
Applicants should have experience with many of the above tasks, but those with familiarity with the flora
of coastal California will be especially competitive. Because we may ask the technician to spend periods
of unsupervised time on the island, a demonstrated ability to work independently and/or in a field
supervisory capacity will also be strongly preferred. Preference will also be given to applicants that have
experience with invertebrate sampling and identification, with Microsoft Excel, GIS, and GPS, and that
possess an undergraduate degree in ecology, wildlife biology, or a related field. Applicants must have a
valid driver’s license and a good driving record.
Compensation for this project will equate to roughly $2,000 per month depending on qualifications.
Transportation from San Diego, California to SCI and housing (and some food) on the island will be also
provided.
This position will be filled as soon as an ideal candidate is found; however, applications must be received
by 28 November. To apply, please send a cover letter (outlining your experience and interest specifically
related to the requirements of this position), a CV/resume, and contact information for 3 references to
Shishir Paudel (shishp@okstate.edu<mailto:shishp@okstate.edu>).
Oklahoma State University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/E-verify employer committed to
diversity and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be
discriminated against based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national
origin, disability or protected veteran status. OSU is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor and desires priority
referrals of protected veterans for its openings. OSU-Stillwater is a tobacco-free campus. For more
information go to www.afirmact.okstate.edu
Graduate student opportunity in Forest Ecology (10/31)
Graduate student opportunity in Forest Ecology with the School of Environment and Natural
Resources, The Ohio State University
We are seeking MS- or PhD-level graduate students to conduct field-based research on the
compositional and structural dynamics of temperate forest ecosystems. Funding is anticipated
for a new research project with the overall goal of quantifying and modeling forest change in
southeastern Ohio and the adjoining region. For specific information about our research
program please visit: http://oardc.osu.edu/ferel/index.htm
The first position will be available starting June 1, 2015 (Summer Semester) and can be either
a master’s or doctoral appointment depending on the abilities and experience of the candidate.
Financial support during their graduate program may be a combination of teaching and
research assistantships; fellowship support may be possible for outstanding applicants (see
web site below for required qualifications). Applicants with expertise and backgrounds in
forest ecology and plant identification are highly preferred. Information about the
Environment & Natural Resources Graduate Program is available at:
http://senr.osu.edu/graduate
If you are interested and qualified, please send your resume and specific information
explaining your educational background, field skills, and professional experiences that would
be relevant to the academic areas of forest ecology, dendrology, and silviculture by Dec. 3,
2014 to David Hix at hix.6@osu.edu. To be considered for funding the deadline to complete
the application process is Jan. 1, 2015.
David M. Hix
School of Environment and Natural Resources
The Ohio State University
2021 Coffey Road
Columbus, OH 43210-1085
614-292-1394
hix.6@osu.edu
M.S. Research Assistantship – Coastal Wetland Biogeochemistry (10/31)
The Helton Lab at the University of Connecticut, Department of Natural
Resources and the Environment seeks an M.S. student starting *Spring 2015* to
study the effects of sea level rise and urbanization on wetland ecosystem
function. Research Assistantship responsibilities include field sampling,
laboratory analysis of soil chemistry and biogeochemical rates, and
quantitative/geospatial analyses.
Qualified candidates should have a B.S. in ecology, chemistry, natural
resources, soil science, environmental science, or related field, and show
a strong interest in wetland biogeochemistry. Ideal candidates will have
some previous experience in wetland research and/or laboratory analysis of
water and soils. Stipend is approx. $25,000 per year, with excellent health
insurance and full tuition remission.
Please send a brief letter of interest, GRE scores, GPA, a list of relevant
coursework, and a resume or C.V. to Dr. Ashley Helton (
ashley.helton@uconn.edu).
The Helton Lab – www.ashleyhelton.weebly.com
Department of Natural Resources and the Environment – www.nrme.uconn.edu
Center for Environmental Sciences and Engineering – www.cese.uconn.edu
M.S. assistantships in plant-herbivore and predator-prey interactions at URI
(10/31)
I invite applications from motivated students for M.S. work beginning in
fall 2015 in community ecology at the University of Rhode Island. Full
funding for 1-2 students will be provided via a combination of NSF-funded
research assistantships and teaching assistantships. Applicants should be
independent, highly motivated, and possess research, field, and/or modeling
experience. Research in my lab generally addresses either predator-prey or
herbivore-plant interactions; specific research topics include the impact of
interactions between invasive species on eastern forests and the
population-level consequences of non-lethal interactions between predators
and their prey. The NSF-funded project addresses plant-mediated interactions
between two sessile invasive herbivores, hemlock woolly adelgid and elongate
hemlock scale, and is part of a collaboration between the Preisser Lab and
Thornber Lab (at the University of Rhode Island) and Colin Orians at Tufts
University. Detailed information about the lab is available at
http://web.uri.edu/preisserlab/.
Prospective students should contact me (Evan Preisser,
<mailto:preisser@uri.edu> preisser@uri.edu) and provide a short description
of research interests and accomplishments, a CV (including GPA and GRE
scores; the Graduate School requires a 3.0 GPA for admission), and contact
information for three references. I will contact suitable candidates to
discuss potential graduate projects and to set up an interview. Formal
department review of applications will begin January 15, 2015, but
interested students should contact me well before the application deadline.
M.S. Assistantship for Invasive Asian Carp Research (Murray State Univ)
(10/31)
*M.S. Assistantship (Invasive Asian Carp competition with shad)*
*Location: *Murray State University, Murray KY department of Biological Sciences.
*Responsibilities:* The research will examine the effects of invasive Asian carp on shad in Kentucky
Lake. The focus of the research will include efforts to determine diet overlap and competition using diet
analysis and stable isotopes.
*Qualifications:* The candidate should have a strong interest in limnology, fish ecology, and
phytoplankton/zooplankton taxonomy with a degree in ecology, biology, natural resources or related field.
The candidate should have good communication and writing skills, a strong work ethic, and the desire to
work under strenuous field conditions.
*Salary (stipend):* $10,000 for 1 yr and position will cover living expenses if candidate wishes to live at
Hancock Biological Field Station. Opportunities exist for additional support through competitive teaching
assistantships as well as tuition waivers.
*Start Date: *January 2015
*Contacts: *Please send (via email) letter of interest, resume, unofficial transcripts and GRE scores and
contact information for three references. The selected candidate will apply to the Biological Sciences
program at Murray State University
(http://www.murraystate.edu/Academics/CollegesDepartments/CollegeOfScienceEngineeringandTechnol
ogy/CollegeOfSciencePrograms/biologyDept/MasterofScienceinBiology.aspx) for admission. The
candidate will be advised by Dr. Michael Flinn.
*Materials should be sent to:*
Email: mflinn(at)murraystate.edu
Graduate Positions: Synthetic Ecology and Evolution of Symbiosis - University
of Mississippi (10/31)
Graduate assistantships are available to support Masters or PhD students in Erik Hom’s laboratory at the
University of Mississippi (Ole Miss). The Hom lab is generally interested in understanding how biotic and
abiotic factors facilitate the formation, persistence, and evolution of species interactions, notably those
that are symbiotic. We are particularly fond of studying the interactions between fungi and algae and use
a predominantly synthetic approach to address our questions (see Science 345:94-98). Our lab is
seeking bright, highly motivated students with an appetite for learning to join us in pursuing research
projects of mutual interest in areas that include (but are not limited to): experimental evolution, synthetic
ecology, EcoEvoDevo, eukaryotic metagenomics, bioinformatics, and the ecology of microbial
consortia. Stipend support will be a combination of research and teaching assistantships, and includes
tuition waivers and health benefits.
The University of Mississippi is in an exciting phase of institutional growth and is located in Oxford, a
vibrant and idyllic college town in northern Mississippi, about 75 mi south of Memphis, TN. If you are into
football, William Faulkner, local music, and/or fine food, Oxford is a fun town! Requirements for graduate
admissions can be found here: http://goo.gl/t1CfcR. The desired start date for these positions is August
2015 (although January 2015 may be possible).
Women and underrepresented minorities are strongly encouraged to apply. Those with a strong interest
in STEM education and outreach within an underserved region are also encouraged to apply.
For consideration and/or more information, please contact Dr. Hom
(erik@olemiss.edu<mailto:erik@olemiss.edu>, +1-662-915-1731,http://darwinsdaemon.com).
To apply, please send a single PDF file that includes:
1) a cover letter explaining your specific research interest(s) and qualifications/research experience,
2) your curriculum vitae,
3) a scientific writing sample,
4) school transcript(s),
5) GRE scores (note: quantitative and verbal scores should each be >150), and
6) contact information for at least 3 references.
Graduate Positions at Bowling Green State University (10/31)
The Graduate Program in Ecology, Evolution & Conservation Biology at Bowling Green State University
(BGSU) invites applications for admission to our PhD and MS programs for Fall 2015. A core group of
collaborative faculty within the departments of Biological Sciences and Environmental Science has
research strengths in:
* Population and Community Ecology (climate change, plant-animal interactions, food web dynamics,
evolutionary ecology)
* Conservation Biology (invasion biology, habitat assessment and modeling, landscape ecology and
restoration, molecular ecology and conservation genetics)
* Aquatic Ecology (behavior, evolution, microbial ecology, limnology, and fisheries, wetland research)
* Geospatial Analyses (remote sensing, GIS, in experimental contexts for landscape, community and
population studies)
The Departmental Graduate Program comprises approximately 100 students supported by research and
teaching assistantships. Bowling Green State University (18,000 students) is at the western end of Lake
Erie, and in close proximity to remnant oak-savanna, prairies and fragmented forest- agroecosytem
complexes. With a low cost of living and recognized as one of the best cities in Ohio
(http://www.ohiomagazine.com), Bowling Green is also within easy driving distance of Columbus, Ann
Arbor, Chicago, and Cleveland.
Interested students should identify and communicate with potential faculty research advisors from the list
below. Application deadline for Fall 2015 is Feb 1. Also see http://www.bgsu.edu/arts-andsciences/biological-sciences/graduate-programs/prospective-students.html.
Core Faculty in Ecology, Evolution, & Conservation Biology:
*Shannon Pelini (spelini@bgsu.edu): Climate change biology, community ecology, invertebrate ecology
*Kevin McCluney (kevin.e.mccluney@gmail.com): Water, food webs, landscape ecology, freshwater
sustainability
*Gabriela Bidart-Bouzat (gbidart@bgsu.edu): Evolutionary ecology, plant- insect interactions
*Juan L. Bouzat (jbouzat@bgsu.edu): Molecular ecology and evolution, conservation genetics
*Robert Huber(rhuber@bgsu.edu): Neurochemistry of aggression
*R. Michael McKay (rmmckay@bgsu.edu): Aquatic microbial ecology, phytoplankton-trace metal
interactions
*Helen Michaels (hmichae@bgsu.edu): Plant population ecology, restoration, molecular ecology,
conservation genetics
*Jeffrey Miner (jminer@bgsu.edu): Aquatic community ecology, fishery biology
*Paul Moore (pmoore@bgsu.edu): Sensory ecology, chemoreceptor behavior
*Scott Rogers (srogers@bgsu.edu): Ancient DNA/ice/viruses/bacteria/fungi
*Karen Root (kvroot@bgsu.edu): Conservation biology, population viability analysis, reserve design
*Moira van Staaden (mvs.bgsu@gmail.com): Evolution of sensory systems, African cichlids
*Daniel Wiegmann (ddwiegm@bgsu.edu): Behavioral ecology, reproductive biology of fishes
*Hans Wildschutte (hansw@bgsu.edu): Environmental microbiology, microbial populations, genetic
diversity, virulence factors, and bacterial interactions
Affiliated Faculty in the School of Earth, Environment, and Society:
*Andy Gregory(agregor@bgsu.edu): Landscape ecology
*Anita Simic (asimic@bgsu.edu): Remote sensing and GIS applications, vegetation and soil science,
hydrology and water resources, bioenergy sustainability, environmental resources mapping and modeling
Graduate Assistantships in Ecology at William & Mary (10/31)
Masters Graduate Assistantships in Ecology and Conservation at the College of William and Mary
The Biology Department at the College of William and Mary is recruiting new research Masters students
in behavioral, wetlands, plant, viral, functional, spatial, physiological, evolutionary, mathematical and
conservation ecology, to start in Fall 2015. Full assistantships are provided to nearly all students.
We offer a two-year research-intensive Masters program where students are supported by teaching
assistantships and full tuition waivers. For many students, getting a Masters in two years and writing
publications and grants is the ideal preparation for applying to a highly competitive Ph.D. programs or job.
We have a great track record of our recent MS students going on to excellent PhD programs and
professional positions. With a low student-to-faculty ratio (approximately 10 new students each year with
23 full-time faculty) we can offer an intimate and highly personalized research and education experience.
Importantly, we have real strengths in many aspects of ecology and conservation. We are one of the few
smaller universities that have many ecologists on their faculty, including: Harmony Dalgleish and Martha
Case (plant/forest ecology), John Swaddle and Dan Cristol (behavioral ecology/ecotoxicology), Laurie
Sanderson, Jon Allen and Joshua Puzey (functional ecology), Randy Chambers (wetlands ecology), Kurt
Williamson (viral ecology), Matthias Leu (conservation/landscape ecology), Helen Murphy (evolutionary
ecology), Drew LaMar (mathematical ecology), and Paul Heideman (physiological ecology). The proximity
of William and Mary to county, state, and federal parks as well as the Chesapeake Bay allows for
extensive field research opportunities.
Deadline for applications is February 1, but you should contact potential advisors soon. You can get
general information about our program from the department
website: http://www.wm.edu/as/biology/graduate/index.php and more on potential advisors here:
Harmony Dalgleish: http://wmpeople.wm.edu/hjdalgleish
Kurt Williamson: http://wmpeople.wm.edu/kewilliamson
Randy Chambers: http://rmcham.people.wm.edu/
Jon Allen: http://wmpeople.wm.edu/jdallen
Dan Cristol: http://wmpeople.wm.edu/dacris
Matthias Leu: http://wmpeople.wm.edu/mleu
Drew LaMar: http://www.people.wm.edu/~mdlama/<http://www.people.wm.edu/%7Emdlama/>
Helen Murphy: http://www.helenmurphy.net
Laurie Sanderson: http://slsand.people.wm.edu
Paul Heideman: http://pdheid.people.wm.edu/
Joshua Puzey: http://puzeylab.weebly.com
Martha Case: http://macase.people.wm.edu/ (on sabbatical 2015, not taking new students)
John Swaddle: http://jpswad.people.wm.edu/ (on sabbatical in 2015; not taking new students)
Grad Assistantships in Forest Nutrient Cycling: Jan or June 2015 (10/31)
Ruth Yanai is seeking new graduate students (M.S. or PhD) to participate in a large collaborative project
investigating above and belowground carbon allocation, nutrient cycling, and tradeoffs involved in multiple
resource allocation. The Multiple Element Limitation in Northern Hardwood Ecosystems (MELNHE)
project has field sites located at Hubbard Brook, Jeffers Brook, and Bartlett Experimental Forests in the
White Mountains of New Hampshire. Since 2011, thirteen stands have been receiving N, P, N&P, and
control treatments in 0.25-ha plots, with six stands receiving Ca treatments. Research opportunities in the
MELNHE project include: soil respiration, soil mineralization, beech bark disease, leaf production by
species, foliar nutrient resorption, water use, mycorrhizae, forest productivity (among species and stand
age classes), and snail and arthropod diversity. More information on the project can be found
at http://www.esf.edu/melnhe.
We also offer opportunities to contribute to uncertainty analyses. QUEST (Quantifying Uncertainty in
Ecosystem Studies) is a Research Coordination Network led by Yanai and others. Learn more
at http://quantifyinguncertainty.org.<http://quantifyinguncertainty.org/>
We welcome inquiries from prospective students interested in forest ecology, nutrient cycling, and
uncertainty analysis. Applicants should be self motivated, excited to work as part of a multi-investigator
project, have laboratory and field experience, and be comfortable living and working in a group setting. A
field crew blog from previous years is available at http://shoestringproject.wordpress.com/.
The ideal student will be able to start in January 2015 or in May or June 2015, to allow familiarization with
the field sites and our research activities.
Funding will consist of a combination of research and teaching assistantships (ability to TA General
Chemistry or GIS would be a plus). A stipend, full tuition waiver, health insurance, and a summer position
with the field crew in New Hampshire will be provided. Prospective students may apply to the Department
of Forest and Natural Resources Management or the Graduate Program in Environmental Science, both
at the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY.
We appreciate communicating with students as part of the application process. Students are encouraged
to review MELNHE related data and publications and supply their own ideas for research in relation to the
project. Prospective students should begin that conversation by requesting the password for Ruth's
project materials from Heather Engelman at forestecology@esf.edu<mailto:forestecology@esf.edu>.
PhD Research Assistantship in Ecology, UW (10/24)
PhD Research Assistantship in Ecology
Department of Zoology, UW-Madison
Tony Ives and Claudio Gratton
We are seeking a student to pursue a PhD in ecology on a collaborative project between the Departments
of Zoology and Entomology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison studying the ecology of Lake Myvatn,
Iceland. Our project involves both aquatic and terrestrial research, and has a strong quantitative
component. We would like a student with interests that intersect any of the ongoing research areas in the
project, including food web ecology, entomology, above-ground/below-ground interactions and ecosystem
function, predator-prey interactions, limnology, population dynamics, and aquatic ecology. A MS degree is
not a pre-requisite.
We expect the PhD student to join a field team consisting of another graduate student and four interns for
fieldwork during summers in Iceland. We seek students with strong leadership skills and the ability to
work independently and coordinate a research team. The student will work closely with both directors of
the project, Tony Ives (Zoology: http://zoology.wisc.edu/faculty/ive/ive.html) and Claudio Gratton
(Entomology:http://gratton.entomology.wisc.edu/). More information on this project can be found on our
lab web sites.
To be considered for this position, please send a cover letter outlining your interests and research
background, a curriculum vitae (including GPA and GRE scores), and contact information for three
professional references (name, email, phone, address) as a single PDF file to Tony Ives
(arives@wisc.edu) and Claudio Gratton (cgratton@wisc.edu) with ‘Lake Myvatn Ecology PhD’ in
the subject line. This will initiate an informal discussion about applying formally to the Department of
Zoology for graduate school; the deadline for the Department of Zoology application is 1 January, 2015,
although informal discussions should commence immediately. The selected student is expected to enroll
at the UW-Madison in the Fall Semester of 2015, but will begin some fieldwork in the summer of 2015.
Funding for the student will come from a combination of teaching and research assistantships for the
duration of the degree.
Tony Ives
Department of Zoology
UW-Madison
MS Graduate Research Assistantship (10/24)
Research Assistantship
Leading to M.S. in Wildlife Science
Mississippi State University
Project Title: Development of cost-effective, efficient methods to control fish-eating bird abundance at
aquaculture facilities
Project Description: One M.S. Research Assistantship is available within the Department of Wildlife,
Fisheries and Aquaculture at Mississippi State University. The graduate research assistant will conduct a
research project to: 1) develop and evaluate methods to effectively control the abundance of American
white pelicans and other fish-eating birds at fish farms to mitigate predation and disease transmission;
and 2) conduct surveys to estimate the abundance of American white pelicans in Mississippi Delta using
unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), manned fixed-wing aircraft and satellite imagery. The student will collect
field data, conduct data analyses, write manuscripts for publications, and present findings at professional
meetings. The student will work closely with USDA APHIS WS Research Wildlife Biologist Tommy King
(tommy.king@aphis.usda.gov).
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: January 1 or July 1, 2015
Stipend: $16,500 per year plus tuition and health benefits
Closing Date: 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
(gwang@cfr.msstate.edu<mailto:gwang@cfr.msstate.edu>).
Reviews of applications begin on December 1, 2014.
Inquiries: Dr. Guiming Wang; email: gwang@cfr.msstate.edu; phone: 662-325-0414
MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER
Graduate RA (UW-Madison): Evolutionary Ecology of Herbivore Defense in
Aspen (10/24)
Funding will be available (2015) at the University of Wisconsin-Madison to support graduate research, at
the Ph.D. (or Masters-Ph.D.) level, on the ecology and evolution of defense in aspen (Populus
tremuloides). Aspen is a foundation species in boreal and montane forests of North America and
secondary chemistry plays a key role in its interactions with diverse insect and mammalian herbivores.
The graduate research assistant will assume primary responsibility for a collaborative project involving the
labs of Rick Lindroth (UW Entomology & Zoology) and Eric Kruger (UW Forest & Wildlife Ecology). The
research will evaluate the interplay of intraspecific plant competition and growth-defense tradeoffs with
respect to the evolutionary trajectories of mixed-genotype aspen stands. Applicants may pursue
admission to UW graduate programs in Entomology, Zoology or Forestry.
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.
Graduate students have the opportunity to participate in the thriving Ecology (http://ecology.wisc.edu/)
and Evolutionary Biology (http://www.evolution.wisc.edu/) communities at UW-Madison.
Qualifications: Highly motivated individuals with a strong academic background in plant biology and/or
ecology, as well as excellent quantitative and communication skills, are encouraged to apply. Candidates
must be able to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.
Stipend/benefits: A 50% Graduate Research Assistantship is available beginning in spring, summer or fall
semesters of 2014. A 50% RA currently provides a stipend of $20,808 (12 mo.), tuition waiver, and
excellent medical/dental health plans at low cost.
Applications: Questions about the position may be directed to Rick Lindroth (lindroth@wisc.edu).
Interested candidates should e-mail Graduate Student Services Coordinator Sara Rodock
(rodock@wisc.edu) a single PDF file containing the following information:
-Cover letter outlining research interests, academic and professional backgrounds
-Resume
-Copies of transcripts (unofficial copies acceptable)
-GRE scores (if not available, indicate when exam will be taken)
-Names and contact information for three references
Applications will be reviewed upon receipt. Promising candidates will be requested to submit a formal
application to a UW-Madison graduate program in Entomology, Zoology (Ecology), or Forestry. Note that
the application deadline for Zoology is Dec. 31, 2014.
Master's project in hellbender ecology and conservation (10/24)
Title: MS Research- Hellbender Ecology and Conservation
Agency: Purdue University
Location: West Lafayette, IN
Job Description: Seeking a highly motivated student for a MS position focusing on hellbender ecology and
conservation. The selected candidate will assess post-release juvenile movements and survival,
characterize juvenile habitat use, and conduct habitat modifications. This project will consist of intensive
field work, up to nine months, at field sites located in southern Indiana. Transportation and off-campus
housing will be provided. Graduate position begins in August 2015, but opportunities for field work can
begin in May 2015.
Qualifications: A student with a background in herpetology or related field is preferred. Experience using
radio-telemetry is desired. Applicants must have a strong work ethic and the ability to work both
independently and as a member of a team of graduate students working on hellbender ecology and
conservation (e.g., students evaluating larval hellbender captive rearing techniques, developing
ecological niche models, and hellbender genetics). Applicants also will work closely with a diverse
group of scientists, state wildlife biologists, private landowners, and zoo personnel. Excellent writing and
interpersonal skills are essential.
Funding for research will be provided, but the successful student will need to secure a departmental
assistantship through the application process from Purdue’s Department of Forestry and Natural
Resources. Competitive students will have stellar GRE scores, grades/GPA, and letters of
recommendation. Applicants are encouraged to visit
https://ag.purdue.edu/fnr/Pages/gradadminguide.aspx to ensure they meet the minimum
departmental requirements for admission. Students that do not meet minimum requirements will not be
considered.
To apply, electronically submit a single PDF that consists of a cover letter stating research and career
interests, CV (including cumulative GPA and GRE scores & percentages), and contact information for
three references to Dr. Rod Williams (rodw@purdue.edu). Only those applicants deemed competitive for
a departmental assistantship will be asked to formally apply to the Purdue Graduate School
and Department of Forestry and Natural Resources.
Purdue University is an equal access/equal opportunity/affirmative action employer fully committed to
achieving a diverse workforce.
Stipend: ~$18,000/yr
Last Date to Apply: November 14, 2014
Contact: Rod Williams
E-mail: rodw@purdue.edu
Web: http://web.ics.purdue.edu/~rodw/
Master of Marine Science & Management, NMSC, Australia (10/24)
Applications are now being accepted for the 2015 admission to the Master of Marine Science and
Management at Southern Cross University (SCU), Australia. The application deadline is 16th January
2015 for International students and February 2nd 2015 for Australian students.
The Master of Marine Science and Management is delivered at SCU’s National Marine Science Centre
(www.scu.edu.au/nmsc), a teaching and research facility in Coffs Harbour. The Centre is equipped with
state-of-the-art marine research laboratories, a commercial aquaculture facility and extensive field
equipment. It has coral reef, kelp forest and mangrove habitats on its doorstep, and is surrounded by the
beautiful Solitary Island Marine Park.
Students who have completed a relevant Bachelor degree will receive four units of advanced standing
towards the Masters degree.
The Master of Marine Science and Management is designed for university graduates wanting to pursue
specialist expertise in marine science with a focus on sustainability and management.
The curriculum is strongly influenced by the needs of industry and potential employers. It has both a
theoretical and a practical focus, with field studies in a range of coastal and marine environments,
including the Solitary Islands Marine Park.
The program is taught by a range of leading researchers from SCU’s Marine Ecology Research Centre
and the Centre for Coastal Biogeochemistry.
For more information, go to http://courses.scu.edu.au/courses/master-ofmarine-science-and-management2/2015#course-content=overview
or feel free to contact me at les.christidis@scu.edu.au
Professor Les Christidis
Director, National Marine Science Centre
Course Co-ordinator Master of Marine Science and Management
Graduate positions in forest ecology and forest restoration ecology (10/24)
Up to four graduate student positions (M.Sc. or Ph.D.) are available for forest ecology research on
restoring surface mined lands to self-sustaining forests. The overall aim of the research is to understand
underlying forest ecosystem processes, to develop innovative reclamation techniques, and to
determine stand trajectories to successfully restore ecosystem functions and processes essential for the
development of resilient forests. The research is part of large projects that investigate the role of early
successional tree species to reclaim mining areas of the boreal mixedwood forest and parkland regions of
Alberta, Canada. Of particular interest are (1) links between rooting behavior in plants and its effect on
water, carbon, and nutrient cycling, (2) tree seedling improvement, (3) the influence of site conditions on
subsequent forest establishment and growth, and 4) successional trajectories of ectomycorrhizal fungal
communities in relation to natural benchmarks.
Graduate students in this project will be under the supervision of Simon Landhäusser, Industrial Research
Chair in Forest Land Reclamation, Department of Renewable Resources at the University of Alberta, (
http://www.ales.ualberta.ca/rr/). Depending on the interest and quality of the applicants, the project offers
considerable flexibility in designing a research program that investigates areas of personal interest within
the overall framework of the project.
Background in plant biology, forest ecology or related field is essential, as is an interest in the linkages
between forests and disturbance. Experience with any of the following will be an asset, but is not
required: soil science, ecophysiology, plant nutrition, silviculture, and molecular techniques. Proficiency in
spoken and written English is a necessity. Selection of a student will be based on academic
achievements, reference letters and if applicable previous research experience. Strong verbal,
written, and computational skills are essential.
Application deadline: March 1, 2015 or until the positions are filled. Salary ranges between CAN$ 19,500
– 23,500 per year for a period of 2 years for a M.Sc. and 3 years for a Ph.D.; extensions are possible, but
will depend on student performance. Canadian students could also be eligible for Tri-Council graduate
scholarships (e.g. NSERC) in their first year. It is preferable that successful candidates start their
laboratory and fieldwork in May 2015 while applying to the graduate program at the University of Alberta
for the fall or winter of 2015. The applicants must meet the entrance requirement for the University of
Alberta, Department of Renewable Resources, which can be viewed at:
http://www.ales.ualberta.ca/rr/phdprograms.cfm
Interested candidates should e-mail their transcript, curriculum vitae, a letter describing their research
experience and interests (2 page limit), recent TOEFL scores (if appropriate), and the names and contact
information of three references to Dr. Simon Landhäusser, Department of Renewable Resources, 4-42
Earth Science Building, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E3, CANADA. Phone: (780)-4926381; Fax: (780)-492-1767.
Email: simon.landhausser@ualberta.ca
NEON Hiring - Field Technicians - Multiple Locations (10/17)
NEON is hiring Field Technicians in Puerto Rico, Alabama, Tennessee, Massachusetts and Alaska
For more details and online application visit our careers page at http://www.neoninc.org/contact/careers
COMPANY OVERVIEW
The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a $430 million dollar observatory project
dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. For
the next three decades NEON will collect a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental
scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. NEON will use cutting edge
technology including an airborne observation platform that will capture images of regional landscapes and
vegetation; mobile, re-locatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor
soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who will observe and sample populations of diverse
organisms and collect soil and water data. A leading edge cyber-infrastructure will calibrate, store and
publish this information. The Observatory will grow to 300+ personnel and will be the first of its kind
designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales.
GENERAL DUTIES INCLUDE:
*
Report activities, completed work, and sampling problems according to Field Operations protocols.
*
Inspect, maintain and operate field, safety and laboratory equipment.
*
Operate laboratory equipment (e.g. Wiley Mill, drying oven, analytical balance, centrifugal mill, pH
meter, microscope, and muffle furnace).
*
Assist the Field Operations Manager with recruiting and training of seasonal field personnel.
*
Provide instruction and technical guidance to seasonal field personnel.
*
Perform plot establishment by locating plots with GPS navigation as well as measuring and
marking plots.
*
Assist the Field Operations Manager with materials planning, inventory and ordering as well as
day-to-day oversight of personnel and scheduling of activities coordinated from the field office.
*
Follow NEON safety and Field Operations policy and procedures.
FIELD ACTIVITIES MAY INCLUDE:
*
Follow established, standardized field protocols for sample collection and handling; record and
verify accuracy of data from sample collections; process samples in the laboratory; send samples to
external analytical labs. Train and lead field crews performing the aforementioned items.
*
Perform other field sampling activities as assigned including: ground beetle collection (pitfall
trapping), mosquito collection (CO2 light traps, tick collection (dragging and flagging) and soil core
collection.
*
Test, troubleshoot and operate tower, soil and aquatic instruments, calibration equipment and test
fixtures.
*
Inspect and maintain civil infrastructure including boom arms, sensor mounts, towers, boardwalks
and instrument huts.
*
Monitor and sample aquatic sites for water quality, biological indicators and physical properties of
site (e.g. gaging streams, geomorphic mapping).
NEON offers competitive salaries (DOE) with a substantial benefits package.
For more details and online application visit our careers page at http://www.neoninc.org/contact/careers
Graduate Assistantship Opportunity in Phytoplankton Ecology at the
University of Hawaii (10/17)
Graduate Assistantship Opportunity in Phytoplankton Ecology at the University of Hawaii
A M.S. position is available in the Edwards lab in the Department of Oceanography at the
University of Hawaii at Manoa. Thesis work will focus on one or both of the following areas: 1)
Comparative analysis of ecophysiological traits, competitive interactions, and the maintenance
of diversity, using culture experiments with diverse phytoplankton species; 2) Statistical and
mechanistic modeling of phytoplankton species distributions and community
structure/dynamics. Applicants should have a solid background in oceanography, ecology, or
mathematics, and significant research experience is preferred. Starting date is August 2015.
The Edwards lab at UH Manoa (https://sites.google.com/site/kyleedwardsresearch/)
is located in the Department of Oceanography in the School of Ocean and Earth Science and
Technology (http://www.soest.hawaii.edu). We focus on integrating empirical and quantitative
approaches to population, community, and ecosystem processes of phytoplankton and other
marine organisms. Interested candidates should contact Dr. Kyle Edwards at kfe@hawaii.edu
with a statement of interest, CV, and transcript/GRE scores before formally applying through the
Department of Oceanography
(http://www.soest.hawaii.edu/oceanography/prospective_students.html; deadline January 15).
Graduate Assistantship Forest Ecology Univ. Alabama (10/17)
MS Student University of Alabama
Environment and Natural Resources
The Forest Dynamics Lab in the Department of Geography and Program in Environmental Science at the
University of Alabama is seeking a MS student to investigate forest disturbance and development in
upland oak stands. The primary mission of our lab is to conduct research that directly improves the
management of our forest resources. Our research projects in applied forest ecology are wide ranging,
but we place special emphasis on forest stand dynamics and forest disturbance ecology. The MS student
will work on a project conducted jointly with the Northern Research Station, USDA Forest Service to
investigate intermediate-scale disturbance patterns and processes in upland oak stands, the results of
which will be used to both refine silvicultural prescriptions to promote oak regeneration and develop
silvicultural systems that emulate natural disturbance processes. We seek a student with a background in
forestry, geography, ecology, environmental science or a related field that preferably has research
experience in field and lab settings.
Applicants will be evaluated based on their undergraduate record, GRE scores, recommendation letters,
and prior experiences. Funding is available as a Graduate Teaching Assistant through the Department of
Geography. The position carries a full tuition waiver, a stipend, and health insurance. Additional funding
for conference presentations will also be provided. Fellowships through the University of Alabama
Graduate School are available for exceptional applicants.
Interested students should contact Justin Hart (hart013@ua.edu) and should provide a statement of
interest, an unofficial transcript, and test scores. Additional information is available from the following
links:
Forest Dynamics Lab: www.bama.ua.edu/~hart013
Department of Geography: www.geography.ua.edu
Graduate School: www.graduate.ua.edu
University of Alabama: www.ua.edu
Field Crew leader/MS Positions: Amphibian occupancy and Prothonotary
Warbler breeding ecology (10/17)
Field Crew leader/MS Positions: Amphibian occupancy and Prothonotary Warbler
breeding ecology, Richmond, VA
Drs. Lesley Bulluck, James Vonesh, and Cathy Viverette in the Department of Biology and the Center for
Environmental Studies at Virginia Commonwealth University along with Dr. Kristine Grayson in the
Department of Biology at the University of Richmond are seeking applications for two field crew
leader/graduate student positions to start March 9th, 2015. We are seeking applicants with the desire to
continue research in the theme of these projects in the VCU Biology or Environmental Studies MS
programs in the Fall of 2015, contingent upon admission into the program
(http://biology.vcu.edu/graduate/ms/admission-requirements).
We will also be hiring two technicians positions on this project under a separate advertisement
The successful applicants will participate in a collaborative project involving (1) amphibian occupancy
surveys and (2) evaluation of prothonotary warbler breeding ecology. Each crew leader will organize and
lead one of these field components during Spring and Summer 2015. Field work will take place at Fort
A.P. Hill, situated approximately mid-way between Richmond and Washington D.C. A $1500/month
stipend and local housing and transportation will be provided during the field season.
Competitive teaching assistantships and tuition waivers are available upon admission to the VCU Biology
MS program and support may be available to strong candidates for the Environmental Studies MS
program. VCU, located in Richmond, VA, is the largest public R1 University in Virginia and has an active
and diverse Ecology, Evolution, and Environmental Science faculty. Successful applicants should have a
BS in biology (or related field), GPA >3.3, GREs >1200, an interest in developing quantitative skills, a
high level of self-motivation, and prior research experience.
Both positions require prior experience in the field, navigational skills, and a high tolerance for wet, hot,
buggy coastal plain conditions. Especially desirable skills for the amphibian position include prior
experience in capturing and identifying amphibians in the Eastern United States, the ability to work at
night and on a flexible schedule, and familiarity with GIS and occupancy analysis. Especially desirable
skills for the warbler position include prior experience mist netting/banding of birds, collecting blood and
feather samples, and making detailed field observations.
Interested persons should initially email a letter that summarizes their background, educational goals, and
research interests, along with curriculum vitae (include GPA and GRE scores) with contact information for
three references to Dr. Lesley Bulluck (lpbulluck@vcu.edu) for the warbler position or Dr. Kristine
Grayson (kgrayson@richmond.edu) for the amphibian position. Candidates will be considered
starting November 15th and the application deadline for the graduate program is January 15th.
Graduate Positions Available (10/17)
Subject: Graduate Positions Available
University of Idaho McCall Outdoor Science School
Live, learn, and teach in the mountains!
Looking for a rewarding MS program combining ecology, science communication, and field-based
teaching? The University of Idaho's award-winning* McCall Outdoor Science School (MOSS) is
accepting applications for next year's graduate student class. Start date is August, 2015.
Gain hands-on, outdoor teaching experience, study ecology in a field setting, and develop leadership
skills while living in the spectacular natural environment of McCall, Idaho. As a University of Idaho MOSS
graduate student, you will change lives by providing field-based environmental education programs for
5th and 6th grade students and teachers, and use those experiences as the foundation of your M.S.
degree. Because MOSS is a program of the UI College of Natural Resources, students can earn a
Master of Science in Natural Resources in as little as three semesters.
To learn more about MOSS, visit http://www.uidaho.edu/moss<http://www.uidaho.edu/cnr/moss>.
For more information and to apply, please visit http://www.uidaho.edu/cnr/moss/graduateprogram. Project Stipends are available.
For further questions, please contact Dr. Karla Eitel at (888) 6343918; keitel@uidaho.edu<mailto:keitel@uidaho.edu>.
Applications are currently being accepted and will be processed on a rolling basis until all 20 available
positions are filled.
*MOSS is the winner of the 2013 W.K. Kellogg Award for Engaged Scholarship and 2012 J.K. Albertsons
Foundation Grand Prize winner for Innovation in Education.
Gary S Thompson | Leadership Development | College of Natural Resources | University of Idaho
208.315.2058
McCall Outdoor Science School and Field Campus
<http://www.uidaho.edu/cnr/moss><http://www.uidaho.edu/cnr/moss>http://www.u<http://www.mossidaho
.org/>idaho.edu/moss<http://idaho.edu/cnr/moss>
Semester in the Wild
http://www.uidaho.edu/cnr/wild
Funded MS and PhD positions available at Washington State University
Vancouver (10/17)
Graduate Assistantships at Washington State University Vancouver
Graduate student positions are currently available for the MS and PhD programs in
Botany, Zoology, Environmental Science, and Mathematics at Washington State University's
Vancouver campus. Positions are funded with teaching and/or research assistantships that include
tuition waivers. Faculty research areas in biology, environmental science and math include
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Animal Behavior
Butterfly Ecology
Conservation Biology
Disturbance Ecology
Ecology of Aquatic Invasive Species
Ecosystem Ecology
Environmental Chemistry
Environmental Hydrology
Environmental Physics
Evolutionary Ecology
Global Change Biology
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Marine & Freshwater Plankton Ecology
Mathematical Biology
Neuroscience
Plant-insect interactions
Plant-herbivore interactions
Oceanography
Plant Ecology
Restoration Ecology
Statistical Ecology
Successional Dynamics
Watershed Biogeochemistry
Please see our website for more information about our graduate programs:
http://cas.vancouver.wsu.edu/science-graduate-programs
Because graduate students work closely with faculty in pursuing their research, you must line up a
mentor before applying. Explore our Faculty Research pages to find someone whose research
interests fit with your own, then contact that person to discuss applying to graduate school at WSU
Vancouver.
http://cas.vancouver.wsu.edu/science-graduate-programs/faculty-research
Faculty members can be most helpful if they know a little about you. At a minimum, please provide
a resume or CV, educational transcripts and information about your research background and
interests.
WSU Vancouver is just across the Columbia River from Portland, Oregon, and is close to the
Cascade Mountains, Puget Sound and the Pacific Ocean. In addition to its celebrated quality of life,
the Pacific Northwest boasts a fruitful climate for scientific collaboration, with opportunities at
numerous medical, environmental, research and teaching institutions throughout the region.
Priority applications are due January 10, 2015
Please contact Cheryl Schultz for additional information.
Ph.D. Graduate Research Assistantship in Wildlife Science (10/17)
Ph.D. Graduate Research Assistantship in Wildlife Science
“Reproductive Ecology of White-tailed Deer”
Project Description: We seek a highly qualified and motivated student
interested in pursuing a Ph.D. degree in the field of applied wildlife
ecology. This project will investigate major hypotheses from the
ungulate ecology literature, including the role of female choice in a
polygynous, tending-bond mating strategy and the effect of timing of
conception on offspring sex ratio and its implications for lifetime
breeding success.
Compensation: A research stipend ($21,000 per year) and payment of
tuition and health insurance is provided. The student is responsible
for certain fees.
Beginning date: May, 2015.
Closing Date: when acceptable candidate is located.
Qualifications: Background in wildlife ecology, zoology, or related
discipline. Desirable qualifications include a high degree of
motivation, developed quantitative and writing skills, good peopleskills with an ability to work as part of a research team, a minimum 3.5
GPA on M.S., and GRE score above 160. Experience with captive deer
research facilities is beneficial but not required. The candidate must
be able to participate in capture and handling of live deer.
Application: To apply, please email the following: (1) cover letter
describing credentials and professional goals; (2) a resume; (3) three
letters of reference emailed separately; and (4) a copy of university
transcripts and GRE/TOEFL scores. Formal application to MSU, including
official transcripts and GRE, is required subsequent to selection of the
successful candidate.
Dr. Steve Demarais
Dale Arner Distinguished Professor
Fellow of The Wildlife Society
Department of Wildlife, Fisheries & Aquaculture
Mississippi State University
sdemarais@cfr.msstate.edu
Web pages: http://www.cfr.msstate.edu and MSUDeerLab.com
MS - Graduate Research Assistantship (10/17)
Graduate Research Assistantship Announcement
Department of Forestry
University of Missouri
“Effects of stand density and composition on mitigation and adaptability
to climate change in pine and hardwood forests and woodlands of
Missouri”
A Master of Science graduate assistantship is available with Dr.
Benjamin Knapp in the Department of Forestry
(http://www.snr.missouri.edu/forestry/) at University of Missouri. This
project will utilize data from long-term research projects to evaluate
the effects of silvicultural thinning on stand dynamics with respect to
carbon sequestration and climate change adaptation. This research is a
collaborative effort between MU Department of Forestry and the USDA
Forest Service, offering the successful candidate the opportunity to
develop professional experience across organizations.
The duties of this position will include field sampling of forest stand
structure, collection and processing of tree cores, organizing and
analyzing different types of data, and the completion of a thesis and
peer-reviewed publication(s), as well as the successful completion of
other requirements of the degree. 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. The position will be based
in Columbia, MO, with field work in the Ozarks of southeastern Missouri.
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. Benjamin Knapp
(knappb@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. Benjamin Knapp
Assistant Professor
Department of Forestry
University of Missouri
203S Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building
Columbia MO 65211
Email: knappb@missouri.edu
M.Sc. or Ph.D. - Graduate Assistantship in Avian Ecology (10/17)
Project title: Effects of forest management on woodcock and associated avian wildlife in southern New
England forests.
A research assistantship is available at the M.Sc. or Ph.D. level to study the distribution and
abundance of wild birds associated with early successional forests in southern New England and to
develop a forest management plan for enhancing such wildlife. Selected species of songbird and
gamebird that prefer early successional habitats will be censused to determine how forest
management type and history influences their occurrence. An ongoing radiotelemetry study will be
used to estimate home range and daily activity patterns of woodcock, an important gamebird
associated with these forests. Significant habitat assessment and mapping will also be involved. Most
field work will be conducted in Rhode Island on public and private forested land.
Qualifications: Only hard-working, motivated, intelligent, good-natured persons interested in birds
need apply. Applicants must have completed an undergraduate degree in animal/wildlife biology or
ecology, earned at least a 3.2 GPA, must have taken the GRE, and must have excellent oral and written
communication skills. Field experience with bird capture and handling, techniques for censusing
songbirds, radiotelemetry and woodcock, and GIS is highly desirable. Experience with quantitative
analysis skills and field research is required. Ability to work collaboratively and to supervise research
assistants and undergraduates working in the field is also required. Stipends are approx. $25,000/yr
(includes a mix of RA & TA) and tuition is paid. Starting date is January 2015 or could be as late as
September 2015.
To apply submit the following: a letter stating your qualifications and research interests, a resume or
CV, college transcripts, GRE scores, and 3 letters of reference by no later than 1 December 2015 (early
application is encouraged) to:
Dr. Scott R. McWilliams
Dept. Natural Resources Science, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881
401-874-7531; srmcwilliams@uri.edu
Graduate students will choose to be trained in the Ecology & Ecosystem Science graduate program
(http://web.uri.edu/cels-gradprograms/ees/) or the Integrative & Evolutionary Biology graduate
program (http://web.uri.edu/cels-gradprograms/ieb/) at URI. These are interdepartmental graduate
groups within our College of the Environment and Life Sciences (http://web.uri.edu/cels/) that are
designed to provide students with a strong, interdisciplinary and integrative learning environment.
Selected candidates will be asked to apply to the Graduate School of University of Rhode Island.
Master’s graduate position in Conservation Genetics/Herpetology (10/17)
A Master’s research position with a Research Assistantship is available beginning Fall 2015 in the CoreyRivas Lab at New Mexico Highlands University. Our Molecular Ecology Lab focuses on reptile and
amphibian conservation genetics issues in the Southwest (see
http://nmhumolecularecology.weebly.com/). The Master’s research will investigate immunogenetic
variation associated with susceptibility to Bd infection in Boreal Toads of the Southern Rockies at a
landscape scale. Students in the Corey-Rivas lab gain experience in applied, multidisciplinary
conservation research in collaboration with academic and non-academic agencies.
New Mexico Highlands University is a regional state university in Northern New Mexico where the Sangre
de Cristo Mountains and the Great Plains meet. The university has an active graduate program in Natural
Sciences with faculty and students from a diversity of science disciplines
(http://www.nmhu.edu/academics/graduate/arts_science_grad/natural_science/index.aspx).
NMHU is about one hour northeast of Santa Fe, and four hours south of Denver, CO.
We are seeking a student with a strong interest in conservation issues and experience in one or more of
the following: landscape genetics, GIS, genomics, or field ecology. The deadline for applying is February
1, 2015. Please email me if you are interested in applying for this position at sjcorey@nmhu.edu. I am
happy to answer any questions you have.
Contact Information:
Sarah Corey-Rivas
PO Box 9000
Las Vegas, NM 87701
505-454-3301
sjcorey@nmhu.edu
PhD in Wildlife Population Genomics and Disease Ecology (10/17)
PhD graduate student positions are available to study wildlife genomics and population genetics (main
focus), with second focus on wildlife population health and/or disease ecology. Positions may start as
early as January 2015 for Spring semester. Apply by October 24 or as soon as possible for January
2015 start date. Apply by December 1, 2014 for Fall 2015 start date.
Laboratory and quantitative studies involve evaluating landscape-level wildlife population ecology and
health using tools including genomics and population genetics. Species of focus may involve one or
more of large mammals (mountain lion, pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, and others) and/or birds
(hummingbirds and other groups) of the Rocky Mountain West and California. Research aims to improve
wildlife conservation and management through better understanding relationships among the genetic
diversity and ecology of wildlife and relationships with their pathogens.
Positions will be based within the Wildlife Genomics and Disease Ecology (Ernest) Laboratory in the
Department of Veterinary Sciences (which has collaborations with faculty in the University of Wyoming
Program in Ecology, the Wyoming State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, and the University of
California, Davis Wildlife Health Center).
In addition to excellent wildlife and ecology science at UW, Laramie offers easy access to the Rocky
Mountains and outdoor activities including skiing and hiking.
Qualifications: The successful candidate will have:
1) B.S. degree in biological science; 2) Keen interests in laboratory and quantitative research on
genomics and ecology of wildlife and their population health; 3) Superior academic performance including
excellent quantitative, written, verbal skills (good GRE scores, high GPA in science, math, etc.); 4)
Excellent interpersonal skills, enthusiasm, positive and flexible attitude, and ability to work independently
and also work well in a team atmosphere with diverse types of people (undergraduate trainees, field
biologists, members of the public, etc.); 5) Passion for bench lab work and data analysis – positions will
have predominant laboratory and computer-based research components; 6) Interest and ability to
participate in occasional wildlife field work. Some wildlife field experience preferred.
Additional desirable knowledge, skills, and abilities may include any of the following (but not required):
•
Laboratory genomic or genetic analysis, and DNA data analysis; or disease research (of any
organism: animal, human, plant, microbe);
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Program R and/or programming languages such as Python, etc.
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Lab work and/or data analysis of next generation sequencing (NGS) data (Illumina or similar), NGS
library construction, real-time PCR, DNA extraction, gel electrophoresis, and PCR equipment; experience
with cutting-edge genomic techniques;
•
For PhD program, desirable to have a Master’s degree in genomics and/or experience in analyses of
large DNA data sets using a variety of computational tools.
How to Apply:
To apply for this position please submit an electronic application via email in PDF format
to hernest@uwyo.edu and note which semester you are applying for (Spring 2015 or Fall 2015). Include a
Letter of Intent stating research interests and career goals, C.V. (resume), GRE scores including
percentiles, transcripts (can be unofficial copies), GPA overall and last two years, and names and contact
information for three references to Dr. Holly Ernest, Professor and Wyoming Excellence Chair in Disease
Ecology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, 1174 Snowy Range Road, Laramie, WY 82070. The
selected applicant would also need to apply for or be matriculated in a PhD degree program at University
of Wyoming (US residents and citizens only). For graduate applications
see http://www.uwyo.edu/admissions/graduate.
PhD Assistantship in Aquatic Biogeochemistry (10/17)
A Ph.D. research assistantship is available (beginning summer 2015) in the Hardison and McClelland
Labs at the University of Texas at Austin Marine Science Institute, (https://utmsi.utexas.edu/). This
position will be a part of an interdisciplinary team funded by the National Science Foundation to
study the physics and chemistry of oscillic freshwater zones (OFZs) that exist in the lower reaches of
rivers. Water flow may slow, stop, or even reverse direction with the tide in these zones, but not an ounce
of seawater is seen. The student will focus on characterizing what effect OFZs have on nitrogen inputs to
estuaries through field and laboratory activities. We seek applicants with a background in marine or
aquatic chemistry, preferably with a degree in chemistry, biology, environmental science, or a closely
related field. The student will be involved in all aspects of the project, from field work to publication of
findings. Applicants are expected to have a strong academic background, show evidence of independent
work in the field and/or lab, and demonstrate a capacity to contribute to a collaborative research
environment. For more information, please email a statement of interest/background and a copy of your
CV to Amber Hardison (amber.hardison@utexas.edu) and Jim McClelland (jimm@utexas.edu). Note that
the application deadline for our graduate program is December 1, 2014.
Links:
Hardison Lab: https://utmsi.utexas.edu/staff/hardison
McClelland Lab: https://utmsi.utexas.edu/staff/mcclelland
UTMSI graduate program:
https://utmsi.utexas.edu/academics/graduate/admission-information
CLM Internship Program is now accepting applications for paid internships!
(10/17)
The Conservation and Land Management Internship Program is now accepting applications for 2015!
Please apply online at www.clminternship.org/applying
Would you like to put your education to use assisting in important conservation projects? Do you like
to experience new landscapes, habitats, and species diversity? The CLM Internship Program is a
wonderful opportunity to begin a career in botany, wildlife biology, natural resource management and
conservation!
Each year, the Conservation and Land Management Internship Program places 75-100 college
graduates in five-month paid internships to assist professional staff at the Bureau of Land
Management (BLM), National Park Service (NPS), US Forest Service (USFS), US Fish and Wildlife
Service
(FWS) and US Geological Survey (USGS). Internships are primarily located in the western United States,
including Alaska! Each internship is unique and may focus on botany, wildlife, or a combination of the
two. Interns assist in a wide variety of projects depending on the needs of each field office. Examples
of projects include: collecting seed for restoration and conservation purposes, performing surveys for
threatened and endangered species and habitats, and collecting data on species reintroduction and
habitat management experiments. Applicants with strong botany experience are especially
encouraged to apply!
Benefits of the CLM Internship Program are numerous. As a CLM intern, you will receive a stipend
paid every two weeks totaling $13,200 over 5 months and will attend an all-expenses paid week-long
training workshop at the Chicago Botanic Garden. In addition, the CLM Internship Program provides
opportunities to make connections in various governmental and non-profit organizations, to learn
what it's like to work at a federal agency, to explore your career goals and expand your resume.
Applications are due February 1st but we review applications on a rolling basis - the sooner your
application is complete, the sooner we can review your files and consider you for available positions!
Spring semester 2015 graduates are encouraged to apply!
For more information and to apply online, please visit: www.clminternship.org/applying
Grad Student Opportunities studying coastal pollutant impacts (10/17)
I am happy to announce that my new Coastal Health & Water Quality (C-HaWQ) lab at Texas A&M
Corpus Christi is recruiting master’s and Ph.D. students for the fall of 2015. Please read below for the text
of my announcement.
Opportunities. The Coastal Health & Water Quality (C-HaWQ) Lab at Texas A&M Corpus Christi
(TAMUCC) is recruiting Master’s (Environmental Sciences) and Ph.D. (coastal & Marine Systems
Science) students for the Fall 2015 semester. We are seeking students interested in the fate, transport
and effects of pollutants in agricultural areas, wetlands or coastal ecosystems. Our research focuses on,
but is not limited to, pesticides, emerging contaminants (pharmaceuticals, endocrine disruptors, flame
retardants, etc.) and marine microplastics. Students will develop a novel research project with lab and
field components that expands our current knowledge of pollutant impacts on ecosystem health.
TAMUCC’s unique location allows for potential field research locally (Corpus Christi and Oso Bays),
regionally (various Texas estuaries and the Gulf of Mexico) and/or internationally (Mexico).
The Ideal Candidate. We are seeking self-motivated, open-minded and detail-oriented students looking
to push themselves beyond their comfort zones when developing and achieving goals. The ideal student
must display excellent communication skills (written and oral) and be able to work independently as well
as in a group setting that facilitates the success of all lab members. Specifically, we are looking for
researchers with a strong background in environmental and/or analytical chemistry and prior research
experience (undergraduate or master’s level). Ideal candidates will possess a degree in chemistry,
biochemistry, environmental science, biology or other related disciplines. Candidates must be willing to
learn modern data processing techniques (modeling, statistical computing, spatial analysis, etc.) using
various software packages (R, MATLAB, ArcGIS).
Texas A&M Corpus Christi. The University is rapidly growing and quickly becoming a hub for coastal,
marine and environmental research across the Gulf of Mexico. Large investments in research
infrastructure have lead to the recent creation of isotope and genomics core labs, each of which grants
researchers access to state-of-the-art techniques and methods. Moreover, the acquisition of additional
instrumentation and equipment is planned to further expand the University’s abilities to explore and
better-understand coastal and marine ecosystem dynamics.
Contact. Please review the C-HaWQ Lab website (http://conklelab.tamucc.edu/) to learn more about our
lab’s research interests. To be considered for these positions, please email Dr. Jeremy L. Conkle
(jeremy.conkle@tamucc.edu) by December 1st and attach the following items: (1) letter of interest stating
your background, research interests and how you would fit into our lab, (2) CV, (3) unofficial transcripts
and (4) GRE scores. In your email, clarify whether you are interested in the Master’s or Ph.D.
Program. General information on admissions and degree requirements can be found on the
Environmental Science Master’s (http://esci.tamucc.edu/master.html) and Coastal & Marine Systems
Science Ph.D. (http://cmss.tamucc.edu//index.html) program websites.
Graduate opportunities in plant ecology and connectivity conservation (10/17)
I will be recruiting one new graduate student (likely Ph.D., though potentially M.S.) to start summer/fall
2015 to work on questions related to how landscape corridors affect plant populations and/or
communities, within the Savannah River Site Corridor experiment
(http://brudviglab.plantbiology.msu.edu/?page_id=406). This individual will join Lars Brudvig's Lab at
Michigan State University (http://brudviglab.plantbiology.msu.edu/) and the multi-university Corridor
Project research group, who is currently supported by the National Science Foundation to understand the
long-term impacts of landscape corridors on plant community diversity. Substantial opportunities exist for
this student to develop an independent line of research, in context of this experimental system.
Required qualifications include: a Bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, or a related discipline,
substantial research experience, and a strong desire to conduct ecological research that will help solve
pressing environmental issues.
Students may be admitted into the Plant Biology Department and Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, and
Behavior Program, to start in summer/fall 2015. For more information, including application details,
please see: http://www.plantbiology.msu.edu/; http://eebb.msu.edu/. Interested individuals should email
Lars Brudvig (brudvig@msu.edu) well in advance of the December 1, 2014 application deadline with a
copy of their CV, GRE scores, undergraduate GPA, and a brief description of
their past research experience and interests for research in graduate
school.
Graduate Assistantships in Aquatic & Invasion Ecology at The Ohio State
University (10/17)
Graduate Assistantships in Aquatic & Invasion Ecology at The Ohio State University
Two M.S. or Ph.D. graduate assistantships are available in the lab of Dr. Lauren Pintor at The Ohio State
University in the School of Environment & Natural Resources beginning Summer or Fall 2015. Highly
motivated students sought to study: 1) the influence of novel, non-native prey on native predator
populations in nearshore marine communities, or 2) trade-offs between improving water quality and
maintaining aquatic biodiversity in coastal wetlands in the Western Lake Erie basin. Interested students
should send an email to Dr. Lauren Pintor (pintor.6@osu.edu) with "Graduate Assistantship" in the title,
and include their CV, brief statement of research interests, GRE scores, unofficial undergraduate
transcripts, and contact information for three references. Review of applications will begin immediately.
Qualified applicants will be invited to apply to the School of Environment & Natural Resources (SENR) at
OSU by the January 7, 2015. SENR offers graduate teaching and research assistantships and
competitive fellowships to support admitted students.
Relevant Links:
Pintor Lab: http://senr.osu.edu/our-people/lauren-pintor
SENR Graduate Program: http://senr.osu.edu/graduate
SENR's Schiermeier Olentangy River Wetland Research Park: http://senr.osu.edu/research/schiermeierolentangy-river-wetland-research-park
Graduate positions: native plants and beneficial insects (10/17)
Graduate Research Assistantships in Native Plants for Supporting Beneficial Insects - Department of
Entomology, Michigan State University
The Landis and Isaacs Labs have openings for two graduate students (MS with potential to expand to
Ph.D) to investigate the role of native plants in supporting beneficial insects in agricultural landscapes.
This will be part of a new USDA-SARE funded project working with native plant producers and land
managers to evaluate single species and mixed plantings of native plants for their ability to support
natural enemies and pollinators in agricultural landscapes. In particular, the project focuses on plants
suitable for dry sandy soils, which are underrepresented in lists of insectary plants for the Midwestern US.
The students will work as part of a multidisciplinary team to develop site-appropriate mixtures of plants
and seeding methods capable of providing resources to support multiple arthropod-mediated ecosystem
services. The team is partnering with state and federal agencies, land managers, and commercial
beekeepers to demonstrate their use in agricultural systems in Michigan, so interest in outreach/extension
is important. Some experience in entomology, plant restoration, biological control or crop pollination and
the ability to travel and work in a variety of outdoor environments is required. Preferred start date is by
May 1, 2015. The wider project team also includes colleagues working on bee biodiversity and crop
pollination (Jason Gibbs), plant restoration strategies (Lars Brudvig) and outreach communications (Joy
Landis). E- mail a letter of interest, CV, names of up to three references, and GRE scores (if available)
to: Doug Landis, landisd@msu.edu
Fred M. van Eck Graduate Scholarships at Purdue University (10/10)
Fred M. van Eck Graduate Scholarships - Hardwood Tree Improvement and Regeneration Center
Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue University
Description: The Hardwood Tree Improvement and Regeneration Center (HTIRC) at Purdue University is seeking
outstanding candidates interested in working toward M.S. or Ph.D. degrees. The HTIRC is a collaborative regional
research organization of industry, state and federal agency and university partners. Potential areas of research
include: effects of invasive species control on native plant communities and forest regeneration, restoration of native
forests, and the effects of prescribed fire on forest regeneration.
Funding for the van Eck Scholarships is provided to Purdue University by the Fred M. van Eck Foundation, whose
purpose is to improve the genetic quality and regeneration success of North American hardwood tree species.
Qualifications: Potential students should be enthusiastic about working in the area of applied forest
ecology. Candidates should have well developed quantitative skills and knowledge and experience in the biological
sciences. Candidates should have a GPA of at least 3.4 and GRE scores averaging above the 60th percentile.
Assistantships will be awarded at $18,500 (M.S.) and $21,000 (Ph.D.) per year. In addition, an annual budget
($10,000) will be available for research support and a laptop computer will be provided for the duration of the
scholarship.
For admission for fall semester (August 2015), applications must be received by December 12, 2014 (M.S. and
Ph.D.). If interested, please contact me directly (jenkinma@purdue.edu; 765-494-3602) to discuss qualifications,
research interests, and potential projects. Please also provide a short (one page) letter of interest and a CV that
includes cumulative GPA, GRE scores (with percentiles) and contact information for three references.
Please visit http://www.htirc.org and https://ag.purdue.edu/fnr/Pages/default.aspx for more information about the van
Eck Scholarships, the HTIRC, and the Department of Forestry and Natural Resources at Purdue University.
Priority Research Areas for new van Eck Scholars starting Fall, 2015
1. Development of ash resistant to Emerald ash borer and
greenhouse/field testing.
2. In vitro rooting and acclimitization protocols for black walnut.
Also, field testing of in vitro rooted vs. conventional seedlings and
grafts.
3. Studies of walnut resistant to walnut twig beetle/Thousand cankers
disease.
4. Development of efficient screening of butternut with canker and bunch
disease pathogen.
5. Development of borer resistant black cherry and deployment
strategies. (Could include characterization of pests and non-BT
strategies).
6. Restoration strategies for threatened hardwood species (American
chestnut, butternut, and koa), high-graded fine hardwood stands, and old
pine stands (conversion back to hardwoods).
7. Development of fine hardwoods with early heartwood formation.
8. Development of silvicultural systems for mixed hardwood plantations.
9. Modeling of fine hardwood stand growth and yield for small, private
forest owners.
10. Advanced mineral nutrition of fine hardwood plantations.
11. Development of methods to control invasive plants in hardwood stands
and the effects of invasive plants on hardwood forest regeneration.
12. Development of strategies to integrate tolerance of climate change
into future tree breeding populations.
13. Determination of the genetic control of wood quality traits and
traits that mitigate environmental stress in Acacia koa.
14. Development of strategies to engage absentee forest landowners to
become active managers of their forest properties.
15. The response of forest regeneration to prescribed fire.
Graduate Assistantships in Marine and Invasion Ecology (10/10)
Two graduate assistantships are available in the lab of Dr. Amy Freestone at Temple University in
Philadelphia, PA. Graduate students will assist with the BioVision Project (Biogeographic Variation in
Interaction Strength and Invasions at the Ocean’s Nearshore), an NSF-funded collaborative
project led by Dr. Freestone, Dr. Greg Ruiz (Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, Edgewater,
MD) and Dr. Mark Torchin (Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Panama City, Panama). Students
will be enrolled and based at Temple University, with strong interactions with the other collaborating
labs. This research will examine how species interactions influence marine communities across a
latitudinal gradient, from the tropics to the arctic, and the implications of these interactions for
biological invasions. We will be conducting extensive experiments testing the relative influence of
predation and competition on species diversity, community assembly and invasion success, using
subtidal sessile marine invertebrate communities in coastal bays of the West Coast of North and Central
America, specifically Alaska, Northern California, Mexico and Panama. We will use additional
experiments to quantify spatial and temporal variation in the predator community, sessile invertebrate
recruitment, and the abiotic environment to test for effects on interaction outcomes.
The graduate students will be part of a travelling field team composed of a postdoctoral fellow and
undergraduate students who will collect data from our large-scale experiments, under the supervision of
the PIs and project partners. Therefore, students will have the opportunity for extensive travel, including
to Spanish-speaking countries. Students will also be expected to develop independent projects that
complement the larger research initiative as part of their graduate theses.
The successful applicants will receive up to five years of guaranteed support, including stipend, tuition
remission, and benefits. The students will receive support via Research Assistantships for up to three
years with the remaining support offered via Teaching Assistantships. Successful applicants will have
completed a BS or MS in biology, ecology, marine science, or related field. Preference will be given to
applicants with a strong background in marine invertebrate zoology and identification, marine ecology,
community ecology, and/or invasion ecology. Positions will begin early summer 2015.
Prospective students should contact Dr. Amy Freestone (amy.freestone@temple.edu) with a cover letter
that describes their background and research interests, a current CV, transcripts from prior academic
studies (unofficial is acceptable), GRE scores, and contact information for three references. Review of
applications will begin immediately. Prospective students will also need to submit a completed
graduate application to the Department of Biology at Temple University by January 15 for US applicants
and December 15 for international applicants.
Questions on the positions can be directed to Dr. Amy Freestone. Temple University is located in the
heart of historic Philadelphia, and is the sixth largest provider of graduate school education in the USA.
M.S. or Ph.D. Position in the Nevada Mountain Ecohydrology Lab at The
University of Nevada, Reno (10/10)
M.S. or Ph.D. Position in the Nevada Mountain Ecohydrology Lab at The University of Nevada, Reno
The Nevada Mountain Ecohydrology Lab in the Natural Resources and Environmental Science
Department at the University of Nevada, Reno is expecting to hire a qualified M.S. or Ph.D. student to
start in Fall of 2015. Research in the lab group focuses on improving process-based understanding of
snow-dominated watershed hydrology to advance resource management and model predictions.
Projects typically integrate field and remote sensing observations with ecohydrological models. The
specific research project will depend on the student’s interests and skillset. Ongoing research
interests include the linkages between snowpack processes and streamflow, quantifying streamflow
generation processes using hydrological tracers and hydrometric measurements, applying LiDAR and
satellite-based remote sensing products to scale-up in situ observations, and improving
understanding of snow processes following disturbance and land use change. Most projects will focus
on the Sierra Nevada and Great Basin Mountains. Students capable of working independently with a
quantitative background are encouraged to apply. Training in physical hydrology, engineering, remote
sensing, or environmental science is appropriate. Computer programming (e.g. Matlab, R, Python,
etc.) and/or remote sensing and GIS experience is preferred. Students are also expected to be strong
written and oral communicators. Ability to install and maintain field equipment (e.g. programming
dataloggers, installing sensors, etc.) is a benefit. Many projects require the ability to work in remote
areas and travel long distances over snow.
The University of Nevada is a Tier 1 research university with an excellent graduate program in
hydrologic sciences (http://www.hydro.unr.edu/home/) that leverages resources at UNR and the
Desert Research Institute. Reno is close to outdoor recreation (biking, skiing, climbing, river sports,
and more) locally and in the nearby Sierra Nevada. Reno also has ample city activities (its the biggest
little city for goodness sake!). Graduate student salaries are competitive and cost of living is relatively
low. Please contact Dr. Adrian Harpold (aharpold@cabnr.unr.edu) with questions or send a CV and
short letter of interest to apply.
Graduate position: Northern Arizona U. Plant-herbivore Interactions (10/10)
Ph.D. and M.S. positions are available for the fall of 2015 in the lab of Liza Holeski
(http://www.holeskilab.weebly.com), Dept. of Biological Sciences at Northern Arizona University.
Research in the lab broadly focuses on the evolution, genetics, and ecology of plant-herbivore
interactions within Mimulus and Populus species. The graduate students will use a variety of
greenhouse, laboratory, and field-based approaches to investigate the genetics and phenotypic
plasticity of plant morphological and chemical traits that influence plant-herbivore interactions.
For more information about the NAU Biology department and graduate programs, visit
http://nau.edu/cefns/natsci/biology/
Northern Arizona University (http://www.nau.edu) is a comprehensive public
institution located in Flagstaff, AZ (population 65,000; elevation 7000 ft) on the southern Colorado
Plateau, adjacent to mountains, deserts, and the Grand Canyon.
Interested candidates should contact me (liza.holeski@nau.edu) by December 5th, 2014. Please
include a C.V. and a brief description of your background and research interests.
Assistantships in Fire Ecology of Hardwood Forests Available (10/10)
Contact: Dr. Mike R. Saunders, Hardwood Tree Improvement and Regeneration Center, Department of
Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR), Purdue University
Email: msaunder@purdue.edu<mailto:msaunder@purdue.edu>
I am seeking M.S. and/or Ph.D. students for a long-term research project investigating the influence of
both prescribed fire and gap-based harvesting to increase ecological resilience in Central Hardwood
forests. This work, funded by the Department of Defense, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry and the U.S. Forest Service, will take advantage of >15 prescribed burns being
conducted over the next two years on the Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment (www.heeforeststudy.org)
sites and new study sites at NSWC - Crane, both in southern Indiana.
Positions will be responsible for sampling vegetation and fuel before and after burns, deployment and
collection of fire monitoring equipment, entering and proofing inventory data into a geodatabase,
producing quarterly reports on activities (1-2 pages), and contributing to annual project reports.
Thesis/dissertation projects can build upon these activities or investigate related topics, including: 1)
adaptations of underplanted oak and other hardwood seedlings and saplings to prescribed fire; 2)
refinement of fire models to conditions in mesic Central Hardwood forests; 3) long-term impacts of fire
intensity on resultant timber quality in shelterwood regeneration systems; 4) effects of prescribed fire on
masting behavior of oak and other hard mast trees; or 5) impacts of fire on habitat structure and use by
terrestrial vertebrates.
All candidates must be U.S. citizens due to security restrictions at NSWC - Crane. Work will be on
remote field sites and in harsh environments typical of southern Indiana. To meet FNR departmental
requirements, candidates must have a B.S. or M.S. degree in forestry, wildlife or a closely related field, a
minimum GPA of 3.2 and GRE scores above the 50th percentile on verbal and quantitative sections and
above 4.0 on the analytical writing section. Departmental assistantships are awarded at $18,329 (M.S.)
and $21,020 (Ph.D.) per year, and include a subsidized insurance plan.
Higher caliber candidates with a GPA of at least 3.4 and GRE scores averaging above the 60th percentile
should consider applying for the prestigious Fred M. van Eck Graduate Scholarship within the Hardwood
Tree Improvement and Regeneration Center (HTIRC; www.htirg.org) at Purdue. In addition to insurance,
awardees receive a higher stipend (award currently being finalized), a laptop computer upon arrival and
an annual research budget ($10,000) for either two (M.S.) or three (Ph.D.) years.
Application deadlines for Fall 2015 admittance is January 15, 2015; candidates interested in the van Eck
Graduate Scholarship need to apply by November 15, 2014. More information on our graduate program
can be found at https://ag.purdue.edu/fnr/Pages/GraduateStudiesFNR.aspx.
PLEASE CONTACT Dr. Mike Saunders prior to submitting materials. I am attending the IUFRO World
Forestry Congress/SAF meeting in Salt Lake City the week of Oct. 6th and would be happy to meet in
person to discuss the positions.
Purdue University is an equal opportunity-affirmative action employer.
Mike R. Saunders
Associate Professor of Hardwood Silviculture
Department of Forestry and Natural Resources
Purdue University
715 State Street
West Lafayette, IN 47907
Graduate Research Assistantship to Study Fire, Larch, and Carbon Cycling in
Siberia (10/3)
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.alexander@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.
Graduate opportunity: Behavioral ecology/Pollination (10/3)
Positions (MS/PhD) are available in Anne Leonard’s lab at the University of Nevada, Reno for Fall 2015.
Our group focuses on plant-pollinator interactions, with an emphasis on the cognitive ecology of
pollination and the functional ecology of floral signals and rewards. We study how bees perceive and
learn floral stimuli using lab, greenhouse, and field-based approaches. While students have the
opportunity to develop their own research focus, the behavioral and nutritional ecology of pollen foraging
in bumblebees is a topic of particular interest in our group, as part of an NSF-funded collaboration with
colleagues at the University of Arizona (Daniel Papaj and Stephen Buchmann).
The Biology Department at UNR has particular strengths in plant-animal interactions, animal behavior,
and sensory/chemical ecology. Reno is situated in the high desert on the eastern side of the Sierra
Nevada mountain range, 30 minutes from scenic Lake Tahoe and 3 hours from the San Francisco Bay
Area. It offers a high quality of life, a low cost of living, and close proximity to a wide variety of field sites.
Applicants should visit the Leonard lab webpage (www.anneleonard.com), as well as the website for the
doctoral program in Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Biology (www.unr.edu/eecb) or the MS program
in Biology (www.unr.edu/biology/degree-programs) for admissions requirements and application
information. All applicants should also plan to contact anneleonard@unr.edu directly with their research
interests/experiences and CV before December 1st, 2014.
Research Specialist / Technician – UC Irvine (10/3)
Research Specialist – Center for Environmental Biology
The Center for Environmental Biology (CEB) in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at
the University of California, Irvine is seeking a highly motivated candidate for a full-time position focused
on ecological research in southern California landscapes. This is a one-year appointment with potential
extension pending successful performance. The specialist will be provide support for a number of
research and monitoring projects, including assessments of the success of ecological restoration,
evaluation of the dynamics of ecosystem structure and function under different management approaches,
experimentation on the resource-use patterns of dominant plant species, and the installation /
maintenance of significant environmental instrumentation supporting a diverse research and management
community. These projects are associated with the activities of the Center for Environmental Biology
(CEB; bio.ceb.uci.edu) and the Steele/Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center (SBABDRC;
nrs.ucop.edu/reserves/anza-borrego/anza-borrego.htm) in partnership with local and regional land
managers and conservation non-profits.
This position is based at the UC Irvine main campus and will have duties that require travel throughout
the open space of southern California – from local sites in Orange County to UCI’s field station in Borrego
Springs. We seek an individual with skills in plant ecology (vegetation sampling, plant identification),
ecophysiology (plant gas exchange, plant water relations), ecohydrology (soil moisture monitoring), and
micrometeorology (remote weather stations). The ability to program and maintain an environmental
monitoring system is critical and database maintenance skills / geographic information system expertise is
desirable. Motivated individuals with a B.S. or M.S. in a relevant field are encouraged to inquire and
apply. The position is available immediately and we will review applicants until the position is filled. To
apply, please submit electronically a brief letter of introduction, resume/CV, and contact information for 3
referees to Travis Huxman (thuxman@uci.edu).
The University of California, Irvine is an equal opportunity employer committed to excellence through
diversity.
Lab Manager Opening – Notre Dame (10/3)
The Rocha lab at the University of Notre Dame is seeking a full-time lab manager. The successful
applicant will spend the majority of the year working in the lab, and spend several months in the summer
leading and conducting field work in arctic Alaska. Duties at Notre Dame will include analyzing data,
maintaining scientific instruments, ordering supplies, helping to write and review lab papers, and planning
and coordinating summer field work. Field duties include maintaining instruments, collecting field data,
and supervising other lab personnel. Candidates should have familiarity with ecological and
meteorological techniques such as eddy covariance, micrometeorological instrumentation, remote
sensing, and Campbell dataloggers. Candidates should be comfortable with spending extended periods
in the field, and be an effective team leader. Proficiency with GIS, ENVI, Matlab, C, Fortran, or R is
preferred. Training is available, and criteria for this position is flexible. Anyone with a BA or MS degree in
environmental science or ecology is encouraged to apply. Send a cover letter and resume or any
questions to arocha1@nd.edu.
PhD assistantship in plant and ecosystem ecology at Penn State (10/3)
Graduate Assistantship (PhD) in plant and ecosystem ecology at Penn State University.
A NSF-funded graduate assistantship (up to 5 years) is available to work on aspects of root and
mycorrhizal fungal ecology associated with the Susquehanna Shale Hills Critical Zone Observatory
(https://ecosystems.psu.edu/research/labs/root-ecology/graduates). The work is in the context of better
informing ecosystem and earth system models on belowground carbon cycling and hydrological
processes under a changing climate. Specific research topics may include the influence of lithology
(parent material) on root and mycorrhizal fungal function, the influence of deep roots on forest function, or
belowground community structure (fungal and plant) in relation to aboveground forest community
structure. Interested students should have field research experience and a strong desire to study
belowground processes.
If interested, please send a letter of interest and a C.V. that includes GPA and GRE test scores (if taken)
to David Eissenstat, dme9@psu.edu<mailto:dme9@psu.edu>. Information on the InterCollege Graduate
Degree Program in Ecology at Penn State can be found at http://www.huck.psu.edu/education/ecology
David Eissenstat
Professor of Woody Plant Physiology
Chair of the Ecology Graduate Program
Penn State University
Department of Ecosystem Science and Management
201 Forest Resources Building
University Park, PA 16802
http://rootecology.psu.edu
Opportunity for graduate study in microbial ecology at Baylor University (10/3)
I am actively recruiting motivated graduate students (Masters or Ph.D.) for my new laboratory in the
Department of Biology at Baylor University. Research in my lab focuses on the diversity and dynamics of
microbial communities along with environmental gradients such as biogeochemical parameters and
spatial distribution. Research in my lab will involve field work (sampling and survey), lab work (genomic,
transcriptomic and geochemical analyses) and computational work (multivariate statistics, geostatistics
and statistical modeling).
My lab is a part of an active interdisciplinary research effort, Center for Reservoir and Aquatic Systems
Research (CRASR, www.baylor.edu/crasr), which will provide active collaboration opportunities with other
biologists, geologists, chemists and environmental scientists. Joining students will be fully supported by
either teaching assistantship or research assistantship. If interested, please contact me with your
research interests and CV at Sanghoon_Kang@baylor.edu.
Graduate Positions Available in Forest Biogeochemistry (West Virginia
University) (10/3)
Graduate student positions are available in the lab of Dr. Edward Brzostek
(http://biology.wvu.edu/faculty/faculty-pages/edward-brzostek) in the Department of Biology at West
Virginia University starting in the fall of 2015. Broadly, our lab studies how interactions between plants
and soil microbes influence carbon and nitrogen cycling in terrestrial ecosystems, and how these
interactions will impact ecosystem responses to global change. To do this, we couple empirical
measurements with process and ecosystem model development to scale up mechanisms that operate at
the level of individual roots and their associated mycorrhizae to larger scales. Incoming students are
encouraged to develop their own research projects in these areas. Importantly, we strive to promote a
fun, enthusiastic lab environment that encourages an atmosphere of collaboration and shared intellectual
development.
The Department of Biology at WVU has a core of faculty members that study a variety of topics in forest
ecology and also is in close proximity to world-class research sites including the WVU Research Forest
and the Fernow Experimental Forest (http://www.as.wvu.edu/fernow/). Financial support is available via
research and teaching fellowships and there are additional opportunities for research and travel funds.
More detailed information about the WVU Biology graduate student program is available
at http://biology.wvu.edu/graduate.
The deadline for applications is January 1st, 2015 (although late applications will be accepted if slots
are still available). Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to contact Edward Brzostek
(erbrzostek@mail.wvu.edu) prior to submitting an application to WVU.
PhD position, Community Ecology, Ernest Lab, U. Florida (10/3)
PH.D STUDENT OPENING IN COMMUNITY ECOLOGY
The Ernest Lab at the University of Florida has an opening for a Ph.D student in the area of Community
Ecology to start fall 2015. The student will be supported as a graduate research assistant as part of an
NSF-funded project at a long-term research site (portalproject.weecology.org) in southeastern Arizona to
study regime shifts (rapid shifts in ecosystem structure and function). This position will participate in data
collection efforts in Arizona on rodents and plants.
The Ernest lab is interested in general questions about the processes that structure communities, with a
particular focus on understanding how ecological communities change through time. Students are free to
develop their own research projects depending on their interests.
The Ernest Lab is currently at Utah State University, but is moving to the Department of Wildlife Ecology
and Conservation at the University of Florida starting summer 2015.
More information about the lab is available at: http://ernestlab.weecology.org
and
http://jabberwocky.weecology.org/2014/09/29/ernest-lab-ph-d-opening-at-university-of-florida/
Interested students should contact Dr. Morgan Ernest (morgan.ernest@usu.edu) by Nov 15th, 2014 with
their CV, GRE scores, and a brief statement of research interests.
M.S. Assistantship - Wild turkey survival in the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains
(10/3)
The School of Forest Resources at the University of Arkansas at Monticello is seeking applicants for a
M.S. Assistantship available beginning January 5, 2015 (Position #: 2014-010). The assistantship is half
time and carries an annual stipend of $15,000 plus tuition.
Project: During 2011 Arkansas implemented a state‐wide no‐jake harvest policy to increase recruitment of
jakes into the 2‐year old age class. The purpose of this project is to compare survival rates of juvenile and
adult male wild turkeys in the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains in Arkansas using GPS satellite telemetry.
The applicant will be involved in capturing, marking, and attaching GPS satellite transmitters on turkeys
during winter. The successful applicant will be expected to master a variety of analytical tools used to
model survival and recruitment including but not limited to Program MARK, R, and SAS. The GA will be
expected to collect field data in rugged terrain during winter and/or summer months. Remote housing for
winter and summer field work will be provided. The project has up to 3 years of support.
Requirements: Applicants must have a B.S. in wildlife management, natural resources, or a related field.
Applicants must have a 2.7 overall undergraduate GPA or 3.0 GPA in the last 60 semester hours of
undergraduate coursework and satisfactory GRE scores. A GPA above 3.2 and GRE scores above 60th
percentile in quantitative and verbal are preferred. Competitive candidates will be expected to have
previous field work experience related to the project, or another area of wildlife studies. Applicants must
be able to endure strenuous field work and all weather conditions. Applicants must have a valid U.S.
driver’s license and a driving record with no major violations. Overnight travel and extended periods of
fieldwork will be required.
Location and Facilities: The School of Forest Resources is located in Monticello, Arkansas in the
southeastern portion of the state. The Arkansas Forest Resources Center is also headquartered here,
and is administered by the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. The Arkansas Forest
Resources Center is the research and extension arm for forest‐based programs within the State.
Additionally, the USFS Arkansas Forestry Sciences Lab is located at the School. The School and Center
maintain several state‐of‐the‐art laboratories (hydrology, soil, quantitative analysis, silviculture, wildlife
ecology & management) available for graduate research and education.
Application & Additional Information: Graduate program and application information can be found at
http://www.afrc.uamont.edu/sfr/. Applicants must be admitted to the University of Arkansas at Monticello
and apply to the School of Forest Resources before they can be considered for an assistantship.
Applicants must submit all GRE scores, official transcripts, a statement of interests, and three letters of
recommendation. Please indicate the position number above on all application materials and inquires.
For additional information, please contact:
Dr. Douglas C. Osborne, Assistant Professor
UAM School of Forest Resources, P.O. Box 3468, Monticello, AR 71656‐3468
Email: osborne@uamont.edu<mailto:osborne@uamont.edu>
The position is available until a qualified applicant is selected.
MS in Agricultural Ecology at UMD (10/3)
MS Graduate Assistantship - Agricultural Ecology at the University of Maryland
Seeking one motivated MS student to start January 2015 or September 2015 in the area of
agricultural ecology in the Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture at the University
of Maryland.
The candidate will explore the potential environmental effects of increased fertilizer application rates
in sub-Saharan Africa on nutrient cycling in agricultural systems. While agricultural yields have
increased dramatically across the developed and developing world, sub-Saharan Africa has seen no
major increases in production with yields per capita stagnating or even declining over the past 50
years. In response, the African Green Revolution promotes the use of improved seeds and mineral
fertilizer. While there is clear evidence that this will increase yields, potential environmental impacts
are unknown due to the fact that these changes are occurring on highly degraded soils and that we
have practically no data on how they might respond due to a lack of field studies. The candidate will
be responsible for helping us better understand how such changes in land management will affect
environmental quality. Primary responsibilities will include chemical analysis of water and soil
samples, statistical modeling, and thinking big!
Applicants should have a foundation in terrestrial ecology, nutrient cycling, and basic statistics.
Should be able to work both independently and as a member of a team. Preference will be given to
those with field experience – don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. Integrity, enthusiasm, and
creativity are required.
For more information about the project/research opportunities, please contact Dr. Kate Tully at
kltully@umd.edu. For more information on the graduate program and links to apply, please visit:
http://psla.umd.edu/academic-programs/plant-biology-biotechnology-programs/plant-biologyand-biotechnology-graduate.
Job opening Tech III Forest Ecology Lab (10/3)
JOSEPH W. JONES ECOLOGICAL RESEARCH CENTER ICHAUWAY, INC.
FOREST ECOLOGY II LABORATORY JOB OPENING: TECH III
The Joseph W. Jones Ecological Research Center (www.jonesctr.org) invites applications for the
temporary position of Forest Ecology Tech III. This is a grant funded position with the initial term of one
year, renewable for an additional year, depending on performance. The desired starting date for the
successful candidate is December, 2014, but no later than February 2015. Candidates with a background
in micrometeorology, ecosystem ecology, and/or plant physiological ecology and basic technical
knowledge of instruments common to ecosystem productivity measurements or related, are encouraged
to apply.
The successful candidate will assist with all aspects of ongoing research, including a variety of field and
lab-based work. Field-related activities involve: 1) Maintenance of three Eddy Covariance Towers (110
feet tall) sites, 2) Maintenance of an automated soil respiration system (LI-8100, Li- Cor, Lincoln, NE), 3)
Collection of spatially distributed soil respiration measurements (LI-6400, Li-Cor, Lincoln, NE), and 4)
Collection and processing of imagery (NDVI, LAI, hemispherical pictures). Laboratory duties include
periodical calibration of all infrared gas analyzers, maintenance and service of sensors as needed, and
QA/QC of all data collected.
Field work may involve prolonged exposure to the elements, including high temperatures and
humidity. The successful candidate must have the ability and the willingness to safely climb 110 foot tall
towers (proper training and safety tower climbing certification will be included, as well as all the required
climbing equipment). Outdoor work may also include chance encounters with poisonous snakes or
spiders; however these organisms will not be handled in any way. Work may require periods of heavy
physical labor, handling heavy objects, general construction skills, and/or extended periods of standing or
walking for portions of the work day. Laboratory work may include exposure to hazards or physical risks
that require following basic safety procedures.
The 28,000-acre Research Center is located approximately 30 miles south of Albany, Georgia. The
Center’s research, education, and conservation programs focus on ecology and natural resource
management. The site includes 16,000 acres of longleaf pine forests, over 1,000 acres of wetlands, and
26 miles of stream and river ecosystems.
Qualifications: MS degree is highly desirable, but a bachelor trained person with wide ranging experience
would be considered.
Job Requirements: 1) Ability and willingness to safely climb three 110 foot towers on a weekly basis, 2)
Ability to conduct moderate to high physical activity in the field under a variety of weather conditions, 3)
Capable of following instructions, 4) Capable of working independently and as part of a team, 5) Selfmotivated and good communication skills, 6) Responsible with time frames established to achieve
objectives, 7) Capable of summarizing large data sets.
Wages: Compensation is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience. Also
included is a competitive benefits package and a 403b retirement program.
To apply: Send a resume and cover letter detailing your interest and
qualifications including at least three references with contact information
by email to: jobs@jonesctr.org, (Subject line) Forest Ecology Tech III.
Information may also be mailed to: Joseph W. Jones Ecological Research
Center, Forest Ecology Research Hourly Worker, Attn: Cindy Craft, 3988 Jones
Center Drive, Newton, Georgia 39870, or FAX to (229)734-4707.
For specific questions related to this position email Andres Baron, Lead Research Technician, Forest
Ecology II (abaron@jonesctr.org)
Applicants will be reviewed until the position is filled. The Joseph W. Jones Ecological Research Center
is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/E-Verify Employer. Applicants must be authorized to work in
the United States.
Several PhD positions available in the Biological Sciences (9/26)
Several PhD positions available in the Biological Sciences
The Department of Biology at Wake Forest University currently has several positions available
for graduate students seeking MS or PhD degrees starting in Fall 2015. Positions are available in
the following core areas: Ecology and Evolution, Cell and Molecular Biology, Physiology, Integrative
Plant Biology, and Neuroscience and Behavior. Our department offers a research-focused
experience for students who want to perform integrative research and interact with faculty
spanning multiple fields of biology. Faculty maintain internationally-recognized research
programs both locally and abroad.
Interested applicants should contact their potential advisor before applying. Applicants
are expected to have demonstrated academic success and competitive resumes. Apply by January
10, 2015 for full consideration. More information can be found on our website
at http://college.wfu.edu/biology/
Faculty currently accepting graduate students include but are not limited to:
Dr. Katie Lotterhos: Landscape Genomics, Marine Biology, and Evolution
Dr. Bill Conner: Bat-insect Behavior and Ecology
Dr. Matthew Fuxjager: Hormones and Behavior, Vertebrate Physiology
Dr. Cliff Zeyl: Ecological and Evolutionary Genetics
Dr. Miles Silman: Amazonian and Andean Forest Ecology and Conservation
Dr. Ke Zhang: Epigenetics, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry
Dr. Michael Anderson: Savannah Ecology
Dr. Gloria Muday: Hormone Signalling and Development
For a full list of faculty, see http://college.wfu.edu/biology/people/faculty/
Wake Forest University is centrally located in North Carolina, and offers ample opportunities to
enjoy the outdoors and the arts.
Graduate Opportunities at Texas State (9/26)
MS positions available Spring/Fall 2015. PhD Positions available Fall 2015. The Ott lab at Texas
State University http://jimott.wp.txstate.edu/ is seeking MS and PhD students to pursue studies
that focus on population biology and ecological speciation of cynipid gall formers. Our lab focuses
on the evolution of host specific gall-forming insects and their interactions with plants and natural
enemies. Much of our work is conducted in collaboration with Dr. Scott Egan (Rice University,
https://sites.google.com/site/scottpegan/) and thus students can anticipate working across labs.
Current projects include differentiation of gall former populations across host plant taxa, sex
determination and genome size variation between generations of cyclically parthenogenetic
cynipids, hypersensitive response of oaks to gall formers, and host plant and natural enemy
mediated selection for gall former traits. These projects offer opportunities for research from
population genomics thru quantitative ecology and involve both field and greenhouse-based
manipulative experiments.
Base funding is provided by renewable teaching assistantships. Qualified students can expect substantial
scholarship assistance and summer salaries. As well students are encouraged to apply for funding to
further support projects.
For information on ongoing and potential projects, recent publications, support and student outcomes visit
http://jimott.wp.txstate.edu/. Interested students are invited to contact JimOtt@txstate.edu. The
Department of Biology http://www.bio.txstate.edu offers a strong environment in population biology and
population ecology. MS students are invited to apply to the Population and Conservation Biology
Program http://popconbio.wp.txstate.edu/ and PhD applicants are invited to apply to the multidisciplinary
PhD program that accommodates a wide variety of basic and applied interests in
Biology http://www.bio.txstate.edu/Graduate-Programs/Ph-D--Aquatic-Resources.html. Dr. Jim Ott
Population and Conservation Biology Program Department of Biology, Texas State University San
Marcos, Texas 78666 512-245-2321
Graduate Assistant Positions - Forest Ecology U. Idaho (9/26)
MS Graduate assistantships in forest ecology and ecosystem modeling
Dr. Tara Hudiburg is seeking students to join her newly formed Ecosystem Modeling lab at the University
of Idaho in the Department of Forest, Rangeland, and Fire Sciences. The students will assist in
ecosystem modeling and field-based research focused on how disturbance and climate affect carbon,
water, and nutrient balance in western forests. Previous ecosystem modeling experience is not required,
however applicants should have spatial analysis skills, quantitative skills, and be proficient in or interested
in becoming proficient in at least one programming language. Previous background in forest ecological
processes is a plus. Strong writing skills and the ability to communicate effectively are essential.
Graduate research assistant and teaching assistant funding are available (stipend ~$17,000 -$21,000 per
annum and paid tuition). The university is an AA/EEO employer and encourages applications from
women and minorities.
For more information, contact Tara Hudiburg (thudiburg@uidaho.edu). To apply please email Tara
Hudiburg (thudiburg@uidaho.edu) a cover letter describing your research interests, goals and relevant
experience, a complete CV, college transcripts, GRE scores and contact information of three references.
Review of applications will begin immediately, and the positions will remain open until suitable candidates
are found. After the selection, the successful candidates will apply to be admitted to the College of
Graduate Studies of the University of Idaho; detailed information about the application procedure for
national and foreign students is available online.
M.S./Ph.D Assistantships (4) in Sustainable Agriculture - Penn State
University (9.26)
Position: Graduate research assistantship (M.S./Ph.D.) positions are
available in Agronomy, Entomology, Soil Science, or Ecology.
Available: Spring or Fall, 2015.
Project Description: We are seeking graduate students to participate in a multi-disciplinary, sustainable
cropping systems project focused on developing alternative approaches for integrating cover crops and
reduced tillage practices in an organic feed and forage system. Our overall goal is to develop pest (weed
and insect) and soil management practices that overcome current reduced-tillage production constraints
in organic grain systems in the Mid-Atlantic region. Project activities will include on-station and on-farm
research and extension. In addition to field-based research, there will be opportunities to: 1) develop and
deliver extension programs on organic agriculture, and 2) participate in the development of a web-based
decision support tool for organic growers.
Assistantship Focus Areas: 1) Entomology (Ph.D) – Evaluate effects of cover crop and reduced-tillage
strategies on early season insect pests, key beneficial organisms, and soil-borne insect pathogens; 2)
Agronomy (Ph.D/M.S.) – Evaluate effects of cover crop and reduced-tillage strategies on cover crop and
cash crop performance, and weed management; 3) Nutrient Cycling (Ph.D/M.S.) – Evaluate effects of
cover crop and reduced-tillage strategies on nutrient supply and retention dynamics; 4) Cropping Systems
Modeling (Ph.D) – Utilize research to apply and improve a cropping system model focused on nutrient
cycling and management in cover crop based, reduced-tillage organic grain systems. Integration among
student projects encouraged.
Qualifications: B.S. or M.S. degree in plant or soil science, entomology, biological sciences,
environmental sciences, ecology, or other agriculture-related discipline. Strong written and oral
communication skills necessary. Minimum 3.0 GPA. GRE test scores are required.
Salary and benefits: Competitive with tuition waiver and health care benefits.
Location: The Penn State University Park Campus is located in State College in Central
Pennsylvania. State College is a community of approximately 40,000 year round residents along with
40,000 university students in the heart of the Allegheny Mountains. The geographic setting is one of
fertile agricultural valleys situated between tree-covered ridges. Agriculture is Pennsylvania's number
one industry.
For additional information contact (by focus area):
Entomology: Dr. Mary Barbercheck, email: meb34@psu.edu and phone: (814) 863-2982
Agronomy: Dr. Bill Curran, email: wcurran@psu.edu and phone: (814) 863-1014
Nutrient Cycling: Dr. Jason Kaye, email: jpk12@psu.edu and phone: (814) 863-1614
Cropping Systems Modeling: Dr. Armen R. Kemanian, email: akemanian@psu.edu,
phone: (814) 963-9852
Application Submission: Send letter of interest, resume, and transcripts to:
Project Manager: Dr. John Wallace, email: jmw309@psu.edu and phone: (814) 863-4309
PhD opportunity: Plant functional diversity and ecosystem processes (9/26)
PhD opportunity: Plant functional diversity and ecosystem processes University of Florida, Gainesville,
Department of Biology
We seek a bright and energetic student to join a team of plant ecologists, plant systematists, and
microbial ecologists to explore linkages between functional traits, phylogenetic diversity, microbial
diversity, and ecosystem properties (e.g., net primary production) in two disjunct regions with a shared
evolutionary history: eastern North America and eastern Asia. This NSF-funded project (
www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=1442280&HistoricalAwards=false
<https://mail.ufl.edu/owa/redir.aspx?C=_OlN2mGYD0arfwj_bC7XmRAhIUjpqdEItudMv4U3OVhdD2O2ldt
OKe8OIUVA1wrZuW3_u3Flels.&URL=http%3a%2f%2fwww.nsf.gov%2fawardsearch%2fshowAward%3fA
WD_ID%3d1442280%26HistoricalAwards%3dfalse>) involves multiple U.S. and Chinese institutions. The
successful candidate will develop a research project that explores relationships between plant
functional traits (e.g., specific leaf area, leaf nitrogen concentration, wood density) and ecosystem
properties at six NEON (www.neoninc.org/
<https://mail.ufl.edu/owa/redir.aspx?C=_OlN2mGYD0arfwj_bC7XmRAhIUjpqdEItudMv4U3OVhdD2O2ldt
OKe8OIUVA1wrZuW3_u3Flels.&URL=http%3a%2f%2fwww.neoninc.org%2f>) sites in the eastern U.S.
(from Florida to New Hampshire). Similar data will be collected by collaborators in China. There are
opportunities to incorporate phylogenetic perspectives and/or high-spatial-resolution hyperspectral remote
sensing into the research program. The University of Florida (UF) team includes experts in plant ecology,
ecosystem ecology, plant phylogenetics, microbial ecology, and remote sensing. We do not expect any
one person to work across all of these fields, but there are lots of opportunities to collaborate and explore.
In addition to contributing to the above project, the PhD student would be expected to develop his/her
own research ideas under the guidance of their primary advisors: Michelle Mack (UF and Northern
Arizona University) and Jeremy Lichstein (UF).
Qualifications: Undergraduate or Master’s degree in ecology, botany, environmental science, or related
fields; previous experience with field research, data collection, and scientific writing; evidence of ability to
work as part of a team.
Funding: Research and Teaching Assistantships (covering tuition and living expenses) are available from
the UF Department of Biology and the NSF award budget. Details will depend on the outcome of the
competitive Dept. of Biology admissions process, but we anticipate that 3.5 years of RA support will be
available, with additional semesters funded through a TA or an external fellowship.
Start date: Preference will be given to candidates available to be begin field work at NEON sites in
summer 2015, and enter the UF graduate program in fall 2015.
Application instructions: Submit an application to the UF Department of Biology graduate program
(deadline December 11, 2014): http://www.biology.ufl.edu/Graduate/Application.aspx
<https://mail.ufl.edu/owa/redir.aspx?C=_OlN2mGYD0arfwj_bC7XmRAhIUjpqdEItudMv4U3OVhdD2O2ldt
OKe8OIUVA1wrZuW3_u3Flels.&URL=http%3a%2f%2fwww.biology.ufl.edu%2fGraduate%2fApplication.a
spx>. Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to contact Michelle Mack ( mcmack@ufl.edu)
and/or Jeremy Lichstein (jlichstein@ufl.edu) PRIOR to submitting an application to UF. We can help
assess if this project is a good fit for prospective applicants, and provide guidance on the UF application
process.
Minorities, women, and members of other underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. The
University of Florida is an equal opportunity institution.
Graduate opportunities in ecology, evolution, behavior, and conservation
(9/26)
The Ecology, Evolution, Behavior, and Conservation faculty in the Department of Biological Sciences at
Northern Illinois University are seeking applicants to the department's M.S. and Ph.D. graduate programs
for the 2015-2016 academic year. Research interests among the faculty are diverse and include
community ecology, restoration ecology, conservation genetics, vertebrate and invertebrate evolution,
plant phylogenetics, behavioral ecology, microbial ecology, and bioinformatics.
-Nicholas A. Barber, plant-insect interactions, community ecology, and restoration ecology,
http://www.bios.niu.edu/barber/lab/Barber_Lab/Home.html
-Neil W. Blackstone, invertebrate evolutionary biology,
http://www.bios.niu.edu/blackstone/blackstone.shtml
-Melvin R. Duvall, plant phylogenomics,
http://www.bios.niu.edu/duvall/duvall.shtml
-Holly P. Jones, restoration ecology and conservation biology,
http://www.bios.niu.edu/jones/lab/index.html
-Bethia H. King, insect behavioral ecology,
http://www.bios.niu.edu/bking/bking.shtml
-Richard B. King, evolutionary biology, herpetology, and conservation biology,
http://www.bios.niu.edu/rking/rking.shtml
-Virginia L. Naples, comparative morphology and vertebrate paleontology,
http://www.bios.niu.edu/naples/naples.shtml
-Karen E. Samonds, paleontology and paleobiogeography,
http://www.sadabe.org/Samonds/Index.html
-Wesley D. Swingley, microbial ecology,
http://www.bios.niu.edu/swingley/swingley.shtml
-Yanbin Yin, bioinformatics and evolutionary genomics,
http://cys.bios.niu.edu
Details of the graduate program and application process are available
at http://www.bios.niu.edu/graduate_studies/. The department offers teaching assistantships that include
12 months of stipend support and tuition waiver. The deadline for application materials is January 1,
2015. However, prospective students should contact potential faculty advisors well in advance of
applying to discuss research interests and relevant qualifications.
Northern Illinois University is a 20,000-student research university situated an hour from downtown
Chicago in DeKalb, Illinois, a diverse community of 50,000 with a low cost of living. Regional research
resources include The Field Museum, Burpee Museum of Natural History, TNC’s Nachusa Grasslands,
Morton Arboretum, Fermilab, Argonne National Laboratory, NIU’s Lorado Taft campus, and numerous
local county forest preserves and state parks.
Five Interdisciplinary Ph.D. Assistantships Available at NC State University
(9/19)
The College of Natural Resources at NC State University is currently seeking five (5) highly qualified
candidates to engage in applied interdisciplinary research focused on understanding how salinization
affects natural resources and the people who live, work, and recreate in the Albemarle-Pamlico Peninsula
of North Carolina. Candidates are sought across five discipline-specific research concentrations
(ecohydrology & watershed science, human dimensions of natural resources/tourism, wildlife populations
& habitat management, forest and natural resource markets, and geospatial analytics). Working with
stakeholders, decision-makers, and collaborators in the region, the NC State team expects to outline
locally adaptable solutions to problems associated with salinization. Specifically, the team will rely on a
range of methods to assess and model salinization-related impacts to water resources, wildlife, forest
product markets and tourism in the region. *For more specific information on each position and
application instructions, please see the full ad here:
<http://www4.ncsu.edu/~jwsmit12/linked_docs/Interdisciplinary%20PhD%20Assistantships%20(5)%20CN
R%20NCSU.pdf>.
MS/PhD Position in Insect Population or Landscape Ecology (9/19)
Insect Population or Landscape Ecology University of Virginia
I am looking for a motivated individual wishing to pursue a MS or PhD studying population or landscape
ecology of insects starting in the Fall of 2015.
My students and I are currently studying forest-defoliating insects such as the gypsy moth, an invasive
pest of eastern deciduous forests, as well as native fireflies. Projects underway include investigation of 1)
effects of climate change on outbreaks of forest insects; 2) factors leading to geographic variation in the
rate of gypsy moth invasion; 3) causes of spatial and temporal variation in forest insect outbreaks; 4)
effects of light pollution on firefly populations. Work in my lab often includes analysis of spatial datasets,
field observations and experiments, and/or modeling (http://www.faculty.virginia.edu/khaynes/). The
successful candidate will have the option to pursue research in their own separate area of population or
landscape ecology or may want to develop a project contributing to one of the investigations described
above.
Funding for the position would come from a research assistantship as well as a half-time teaching
assistantship from the Department of Environmental Sciences.
To inquire about the position, send a statement of your interests and a CV to haynes@virginia.edu.
Two graduate opportunities in marine invertebrate ecology (9/19)
Two MSc positions in marine invertebrate ecology.
The Gosselin lab (http://faculty.tru.ca/lgosselin/) at Thompson Rivers University, in Kamloops, British
Columbia, Canada, is seeking applicants for two MSc positions that will start in January 2015. Research
in our lab focuses primarily on the ecology of the early benthic phase of marine invertebrates such as
mussels, barnacles, snails and crabs, and aims to understand the role of the early benthic phase in
regulating the abundance and distribution of populations.
These MSc projects will examine: (1) the responses of juvenile invertebrates to climate change; (2) the
importance of the early benthic phase to a species’ ability to colonize new habitats. The studies will
involve field monitoring and experimentation in pristine habitats as well as laboratory
experimentation. Research work will be carried out primarily at the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre
(http://www.bms.bc.ca/) on beautiful Vancouver Island, and at various field sites in Barkley Sound and
elsewhere on the Island.
We are seeking individuals with a keen interest in marine invertebrate ecology and a strong background
in ecology and evolution. Prior coursework or work experience in population ecology, aquatic
invertebrate biology, or ecological field techniques will be considered assets.
Funding for these MSc positions will be provided through Graduate Research Assistantships and
opportunities for Teaching Assistantships. To qualify, applicants must be Canadian citizens or permanent
residents and have a BSc in ecology or an allied field. Students will be admitted to the Environmental
Sciences MSc program at Thompson Rivers University (http://www.tru.ca/science/programs/msces.html).
Interested individuals should send a letter stating academic interests and qualifications, as well as a
current CV and university transcripts, via email to:
Dr Louis Gosselin
Department of Biological Sciences
Thompson Rivers University
lgosselin@tru.ca
Graduate assistantship in ecology of mycorrhizal resource exchange (9/19)
A graduate assistantship is available to support a Master¹s or PhD student in the Hoeksema laboratory at
the University of Mississippi. The student would investigate factors influencing variation in resource
exchange rates between pines and their ectomycorrhizal fungi, which will allow testing of hypotheses
from economic models of mutualisms. The student would utilize laboratory fungal culturing techniques
and custom mycocosms to estimate plant-fungal resource exchanges in growth chamber experiments.
Stipend support would be a combination of research and teaching assistantships, and would include
tuition waivers and health benefits.
The University of Mississippi is located in Oxford, a vibrant, charming, small college town in northern
Mississippi.
Desired start date is January or August, 2015. To express interest, please contact
Dr. Jason Hoeksema (hoeksema@olemiss.edu, 662-915-1275).
JOB POSTING - Lab Research Manager (9/19)
This position will provide an opportunity to work with a highly productive interdisciplinary team of scientists
on establishing a National Wind Erosion Network to support the development of new management tools.
Specific responsibilities of the position include (1) installation, maintenance and trouble-shooting of the
National Wind Erosion Network including meteorological equipment and sediment samplers, (2) collection
of vegetation and soil field-based measurements, (3) laboratory work including soil physical and chemical
analyses, (4) data collection, data entry and manipulation, and (5) training and technical support for
Network sites across the United States. The position will include extensive travel (as much as 80% the
first year), manual labour and long hours in the field. Trips may last up to three weeks and may involve
camping and work over weekends. When not undertaking duties related to the Network, the position will
provide technical and field support to related ongoing projects
See https://jobs.nmsu.edu/postings/19824 for more details.
MS student opportunity – Freshwater mussel ecology – Texas State
University (9/19)
*M.S. Student Position, Department of Biology, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX*
Responsibilities: The successful applicant will conduct a research project in Dr. Astrid Schwalb’s stream
ecology lab ( http://streamecology.wp.txstate.edu/) to address questions about the ecology of mussels
and their conservation in rivers of Central Texas. General research areas include: 1) examining the
distribution of mussels and the factors underlying their distribution; 2) exploring mussel-host
fish relationships; 3) the dispersal of zebra mussels, which recently invaded water bodies of Central
Texas.
Instructional (teaching) assistantships will be available for academically qualified students on a 9 month
academic year basis. Research Assistantships may be available in the summers depending on funding.
Qualifications: Successful applicants will be self-motivated, able to work effectively independently and in a
team setting. An undergraduate degree in biology, ecology, aquatic sciences, or a related field is
preferred. Prior field experience and working with unionid mussels and fish are assets.
Expected start date: January 2015
To apply, please email the following documents to Dr. Schwalb (schwalb@txstate.edu):
1) a cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications
2) a resume or CV
3) unofficial copies of transcripts
4) names and contact information for three academic references.
Feel free to contact Dr. Schwalb with any questions.
MS positions available Spring/Fall 2015. PhD Positions available Fall 2015
(9/19)
The Ott lab at
Texas State University http://jimott.wp.txstate.edu/ is seeking MS and PhD students to pursue studies that
focus on population biology and ecological speciation of cynipid gall formers. Our lab focuses on the
evolution of host specific gall-forming insects and their interactions with plants and natural enemies. Much
of our work is conducted in collaboration with Dr. Scott Egan (Rice University,
https://sites.google.com/site/scottpegan/) and thus students can anticipate working across labs. Current
projects include differentiation of gall former populations across host plant taxa, sex determination and
genome size variation between generations of cyclically parthenogenetic cynipids, hypersensitive
response of oaks to gall formers, and host plant and natural enemy mediated selection for gall former
traits. These projects offer opportunities for research from population genomics thru quantitative ecology
and involve both field and greenhouse-based manipulative experiments. Base funding is provided by
renewable teaching assistantships. Qualified students can expect substantial scholarship assistance and
summer salaries. As well students are encouraged to apply for funding to further support projects. For
information on ongoing and potential projects, recent publications, support and student outcomes
visit http://jimott.wp.txstate.edu/.
Interested students are invited to contact JimOtt@txstate.edu. The Department of Biology
http://www.bio.txstate.edu offers a strong environment in population biology and population ecology. MS
students are invited to apply to the Population and Conservation Biology
Program http://popconbio.wp.txstate.edu/ and PhD applicants are invited to apply to the multidisciplinary
PhD program that accommodates a wide variety of basic and applied interests in Biology
http://www.bio.txstate.edu/Graduate-Programs/Ph-D--Aquatic-Resources.html.
Dr. Jim Ott Population and Conservation Biology Program Department of Biology, Texas State
University San Marcos, Texas 78666 512-245-2321
Jim Ott
Department of Biology
Texas State University – San Marcos
San Marcos, TX 78666
Tel. 512-245-2321
Faculty Page: http://www.bio.txstate.edu/contacts/faculty/james-ott.html
Google Scholar Profile: http://scholar.google.com/citations?user=Qa9RTuoAAAAJ&hl=en
Graduate opportunities - Fire, permafrost and peatland biogeochemistry (9/19)
The Taiga Plains Research Network (http://taigaplains.ca/) is looking for a number of motivated graduate
students (MSc or PhD) to work on complementary projects on the interaction between wildfire and
permafrost on peatland hydrology, soil thermal regimes and biogeochemistry. Permafrost thaw is
currently affecting large areas of peatlands in boreal western Canada, a region which also experienced
an exceptional fire season in 2014 – which is in agreement with projections of future fire regimes. In order
to improve our understanding of the influence of peatlands on water resources, water quality and climate
change feedback mechanisms through greenhouse gases, it is thus important to consider interactions
between fire and permafrost thaw. The following positions are currently available at University of Alberta,
Edmonton, supervised by Dr. David Olefeldt at the department of Renewable Resources:
http://www.rr.ualberta.ca/,
http://www.rr.ualberta.ca/StaffProfiles/AcademicStaff/Olefeldt.aspx
1. Effects of fire on permafrost stability in peatlands – a chronosequence approach
Project description: Both hydrology and carbon cycling in boreal peatlands is strongly affected by
permafrost conditions. It is known from peat archives that peatland fires, common in western Canada, has
the potential to trigger permafrost thaw – but it is not known which mechanisms that are responsible, what
time frames that are involved or what the resulting rates of thaw are (both vertical and lateral). These
questions may be addressed though a chronosequence approach, where permafrost conditions and soil
thermal regimes in several nearby peatland sites are studied – but where sites differ in their time since
fire (1 - >50 years). There is potential to combine field work with GIS approaches. Field work will be
carried out in the vicinity of Fort Simpson, in the Northwest Territories.
Qualifications: BSc or MSc in physical geography or related field. Willingness to work in remote
locations. Driver’s license. GIS experience an advantage.
2. Carbon cycling in permafrost peatlands after fire
Project description: I am seeking a motivated student with interests in soil science and greenhouse gas
exchange between land and atmosphere. Work will focus on soil respiration, with work done both in field
and lab experiments, and potentially linked to isotope work. The central question is whether wildfire
triggers the mineralization and release of carbon previously stored inert in frozen peat layers. Field work
would be located in recently burned peatlands in southern Northwest Territories.
Qualifications: BSc or MSc in biology, physical geography or related field. Willingness to work in remote
locations.
3. Export and fate of terrestrial DOC in peatland catchments.
Project description: Export of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) from peatlands is an important component
of terrestrial ecosystem carbon balances. Exported DOC is also a main source of energy in downstream
aquatic ecosystems, where it may be mineralized and released to the atmosphere as greenhouse gases.
Both fire and permafrost thaw may affect both the quantity and quality of DOC exported from peatlands
(including export of black carbon associated with soil combustion during fire), with cascading effects on
downstream aquatic carbon cycling. Research will be conducted in the southern Northwest Territories, in
streams and lakes of a peatland region with discontinuous permafrost and several recent fires.
Qualifications: BSc or MSc in biology, chemistry, physical geography or related field. Willingness to work
in remote locations. Driver’s license.
How to apply: Please send a letter of interest to David Olefeldt, olefeldt@ualberta.ca. Include resume
describing your skills end education, transcripts and names of three referees.
Funding is available through a combination of stipends and TAships, and there is funding for research
and conference travel. Starting dates are flexible, either January, May or September 2015.
Graduate positions in population/community/evolutionary ecology (9/12)
I'm currently seeking 2-3 graduate students (M.Sc. or Ph.D.) to start in Fall 2015.
My own work addresses fundamental questions in population, community, and evolutionary ecology,
through a combination of mathematical modeling and experiments. In the past, I've worked on
metacommunity dynamics, food webs, diversity-stability, character displacement, biodiversity-ecosystem
function, and other problems. I'm open to inquiries from students with a broad range of interests, but I'm
particularly keen to hear from students interested in the following ongoing or planned projects:
-Causes and consequences of spatial synchrony of population cycles. This project uses protist
microcosms to conduct experiments that would be impossible to conduct in nature at the relevant spatial
and temporal scales.
-Local adaptation in space and time. This project involves using a -80 C freezer as a 'time machine' to
reciprocally transplant lake bacteria forwards and backwards in time (as well as in space) to test for local
adaptation to spatial and temporal environmental variation.
-Local adaptation, species interactions, and elevational range limits of alpine plants. This project
combines reciprocal transplant experiments within and beyond species' elevational range limits with
neighbor removal experiments to address several questions about how local adaptation and
species interactions shape, and are shaped by, species distributions along steep environmental
gradients.
For more on my lab, please visit my homepage: http://homepages.ucalgary.ca/~jefox/Home.htm
The University of Calgary is one of Canada's top research universities. The Dept. of Biological Sciences
has ~60 faculty and ~180 graduate students, of whom ~1/3 are in ecology and evolution. For more on the
department, go here: http://bio.ucalgary.ca/
Guaranteed funding of at least $21,000/year (more than that in practice) is available for 2 years (M.Sc.) or
4 years (Ph.D.) (note that Canadian graduate programs are a bit shorter than in the US). Funding is
provided through a combination of TAships, RAships, and scholarships.
Calgary is a safe, vibrant city of over 1 million people, located close to the Canadian Rockies with all the
opportunities for research and recreation that implies.
If you are interested, please email me an introductory note, along with a cv, transcripts (unofficial is fine),
and contact details for 3 references.
-Jeremy Fox (jefox@ucalgary.ca)
Graduate positions in invasion ecology - U. of Toronto (9/12)
Graduate Positions in Invasion Ecology
Peter M. Kotanen
Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
University of Toronto, Mississauga
http://www.utm.utoronto.ca/~w3pkota/
I am looking for Ph.D. and M.Sc. students for investigations into the ecology of plants and their natural
enemies (herbivores and pathogens) in Ontario and elsewhere. Recent work by my lab has centred on
the effects of these enemies on non-native species. We have used field experiments and surveys to test
whether alien plants experience reduced rates of insect and pathogen damage, as predicted by the
Enemy Release Hypothesis, and whether damage depends upon phylogeny, latitude, population
isolation, and other factors. Information on our research can be found at my home page
(www.utm.utoronto.ca/~w3pkota).
We are a thriving department at a leading research institution, with excellent resources and many
opportunities for interaction and collaboration. All graduate students are guaranteed a stable minimum
income, currently around $24,000 from a variety of sources, as well as support for research and
conference travel; it is helpful (but not essential) if you also have your own fellowship support. Information
on application procedures and our tri-campus graduate program can be found at
http://www.eeb.utoronto.ca/grad.htm. We accept applications for 2015 beginning this November, and
begin to review them in January. Interested students should contact me via
email: peter.kotanen@utoronto.ca.
Some recent publications
Kambo, D. and P.M. Kotanen (2014) Latitudinal trends in herbivory and performance of an invasive
species, common burdock (Arctium minus). Biological Invasions 16: 101-112.
Dunn, A.M., M.E. Torchin, M.J. Hatcher, P.M. Kotanen, D.M. Blumenthal, J.E. Byers, C.A.C. Coon, V.M.
Frankel, R.D. Holt, R.A. Hufbauer, A.R. Kanarek, K.A. Schierenbeck, L.M. Wolfe, and S. E. Perkins
(2012) Indirect effects of parasites on invasions. Functional Ecology 26: 1262-1274.
Hill S.B. and P.M. Kotanen (2011) Phylogenetic structure predicts capitular damage to Asteraceae better
than origin or phylogenetic distance to natives. Oecologia 166: 843-851.
MacDonald A.A.M. & P.M. Kotanen (2010) The effects of disturbance and enemy exclusion on
performance of an invasive species, common ragweed, in its native range. Oecologia 162: 977-986.
Animal Behavior PhD Program in New York City (9/12)
Animal Behavior PhD Program in New York City:
Come and join our growing Animal Behavior and Comparative Psychology PhD program at the Graduate
Center of the City University of New York (gc.cuny.edu/psychology) . We are interested in recruiting
talented and dedicated students to focus on the diversity of causes and functions of behavior, through
studying pressing questions, diverse taxa, current theory, and integrating levels of analysis and methods
of inquiry. Students with research training and coursework in either biopsychology (including
neuroscience) or biology (ecology/evolution/ethology) backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Access to tuition waivers, health insurance, and competitive stipends are
included in admissions.
Application deadline: Dec. 1. 2014. General (but not subject) GRE is required.
For more information, please visit us: *http://tinyurl.com/ABCPCUNY
<http://tinyurl.com/ABCPCUNY>*
NEON Hiring - Field Operations Manager – Arizona (9/12)
COMPANY OVERVIEW
The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a $430 million dollar observatory project
dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. For
the next three decades NEON will collect a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental
scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. NEON will use cutting edge
technology including an airborne observation platform that will capture images of regional landscapes and
vegetation; mobile, re-locatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor
soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who will observe and sample populations of diverse
organisms and collect soil and water data. A leading edge cyber-infrastructure will calibrate, store and
publish this information. The Observatory will grow to 300+ personnel and will be the first of its kind
designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. JOB
JOB LOCATION The Domain 14 Field Technicians primary work location is near Tucson, AZ. This
position supports sites in the Desert Southwest Domain. Desert Southwest sites are located at Santa Rita
Experimental Range near Tucson, Jornada LTER near Las Cruces, NM and near Phoenix, AZ. The
Desert Southwest Domain includes western Texas, southern Arizona, southern New Mexico, southern
Nevada, and Southern California.
JOB SUMMARY
The NEON Field Operations Manager is responsible for managing all personnel and activities coordinated
from the assigned field office. Field office activities include (1) preventative and corrective maintenance of
scientific instrumentation, field infrastructure and equipment, office and laboratory equipment, (2) field
observations, (3) specimen collection, handling, preparation and shipment according to NEON scientific
protocols. Personnel management includes (1) selecting, (2) training, (3) scheduling, and (4) performance
management for 5-10 regular full-time field technicians and 20-30 seasonal field technicians according to
NEON, Inc. Policies and Procedures.
For more details and online application please visit our careers page at
http://www.neoninc.org/contact/careers
NEON Hiring - Field Technicians - Multiple Locations (9/12)
NEON is hiring field technicians in Puerto Rico, Alabama, and Arizona.
For more details and online application visit our careers page at
http://www.neoninc.org/contact/careers
COMPANY OVERVIEW
The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a $430 million dollar observatory project
dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. For
the next three decades NEON will collect a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental
scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. NEON will use cutting edge
technology including an airborne observation platform that will capture images of regional landscapes and
vegetation; mobile, re-locatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor
soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who will observe and sample populations of diverse
organisms and collect soil and water data. A leading edge cyber-infrastructure will calibrate, store and
publish this information. The Observatory will grow to 300+ personnel and will be the first of its kind
designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales.
JOB LOCATION
The Domain 10 Field Technician’s primary work location is Boulder, CO. This position supports sites in
the Central Plains Domain. The Central Plains Domain includes parts of Colorado, Wyoming, Nebraska,
Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas and New Mexico. The Central Plains candidate sites are located in Colorado
at the Central Plains Experimental Range (CPER) near Nunn, CO, near Sterling, CO, in Rocky Mountain
National Park and at Fox Ranch near Idalia, CO.
JOB SUMMARY
The Field Technician reports to the Field Operations Manager and will be hired as a Field Technician I, II,
or III level depending on skills, experience, and education.
•Field Technician I - The Field Technician I is a biological sampling lead
performing seasonal and periodic sampling activities and sample
processing. Seasonal field sampling is conducted with the assistance of
temporary field crews under the guidance of the Field Technician.
•Field Technician II - The Field Technician II is a biological sampling
lead performing seasonal and periodic sampling activities and sample
processing. The Field Technician II will be the technical lead for
performing routine maintenance and inventory management on all terrestrial
sampling equipment. The Field Technician II will provide guidance to
temporary field crews while working in the field and laboratory.
•Field Technician III - The Field Technician III is the shift lead
performing and supervising seasonal and periodic sampling activities and
sample processing. The Field Technician III will have primary
responsibility for coordinating sampling and laboratory activities at
terrestrial sampling sites. The Field Technician III will have additional
roles and responsibilities assisting the Field Operations Manager with
management of the Domain Support Facility, hiring and training seasonal
field staff, and acting as manager in the absence of the Field Operations
Manager.
2 PhD positions, ecological engineering / environmental science (9/12)
Ecological Science/Engineering PhD students wanted
I am recruiting two PhD students to join the Landscape Flux Group within the Department of Biological
and Agricultural Engineering at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. These positions can start
immediately, in January 2015, or in summer or fall of 2015. Students should have a background in one
or more of the following disciplines: wetland ecology, biogeochemistry, biometeorology, environmental
engineering, watershed or surface-water hydrology, agricultural sciences or engineering. Some ability to
code in Matlab or a related language is beneficial, as is experience in gas flux measurements using either
chamber-based or eddy covariance methods. These positions will require a valid US driver’s license.
My research group develops budgets of water, energy, and carbon in different wetland ecosystems. This
research uses micrometeorological techniques to evaluate land-atmosphere fluxes of water vapor, carbon
dioxide, methane and heat. For example, the eddy covariance technique is used to determine the
turbulent flux within atmospheric boundary layers, whereas hydrological methods are used to estimate the
horizontal fluxes of dissolved carbon in surface and subsurface waterways. Together these methods
quantify major environmental fluxes that serve as inputs for process-based predictive modeling and
landscape management.
The PhD research projects will be based in agriculturally-affected wetlands in Arkansas and low-lying
permafrost tundra wetlands in the Arctic. Both projects will use flux budgeting methods to understand the
landscape’s ecological and hydrological functioning. This research will connect between site dynamics
and climate drivers with the goal of creating simplified process representations used at the scale of the
global climate model. Resources are available for travel, equipment and international collaboration.
Additional information about graduate admission requirements, possible supplemental fellowships, and
material about the department may be found here: http://www.baeg.uark.edu/1932.php. Information about
the university and its land grant mission may be found here: http://arkansas.edu/about/index.php.
Furthermore, the university offers competitive Doctoral Academy Fellowships, which are awards over and
above the departmental stipend. Details on these opportunities are available here:
http://grad.uark.edu/future/funding/index.php.
The University of Arkansas is in the middle of a significant period of growth in both its student numbers
and in raising its profile in research and innovation. There are significant opportunities here for
collaborations on-campus in water, soil, nanotech, and other laboratories. Fayetteville Arkansas is a
beautiful and culturally vibrant college town amidst the Ozark Mountain Range. There are plentiful
outdoor recreational activities, good restaurants, and proximity to the world-class art collection of the
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.
Please email me, Dr. Benjamin Runkle (brrunkle@uark.edu), with a CV, unofficial transcript, the names of
two references, a sample of your scientific writing, and a description of your research interests.
Benjamin R. K. Runkle
Assistant Professor, Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering
The University of Arkansas, Fayetteville AR 72701
ENGR 231
Phone: 479-575-2878
brrunkle@uark.edu
http://wordpress.uark.edu/brrunkle/
http://scholar.google.com/citations?user=SeZEXyoAAAAJ&hl=en
PhD opportunity in Boston (Northeastern University) (9/12)
I am seeking motivated Ph.D. students interested in joining the Gouhier lab at Northeastern
University’s Marine Science Center in Nahant, Massachusetts for the 2015-2016 academic year
(http://www.northeastern.edu/synchrony). Students will be partially funded by a $1,200,000 NSF
CyberSEES award whose goal is to develop new mathematical and computational tools to
understand the effects of climate in complex and interconnected coastal ecosystems
(http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=1442728).
Overall, members of the lab are primarily interested in understanding how ecological and
environmental processes occurring at different spatial and temporal scales affect the structure,
dynamics, and functioning of interconnected marine ecosystems. To address this topic, we use a
combination of mathematical models, computer simulations, and statistical analyses of large
datasets. Students in the lab are expected to develop an independent research project based on
their primary interests with significant input and support from the PI. Research topics can run the
gamut from fundamental theoretical ecology (e.g., non-equilibrium metacommunity dynamics) to
applied conservation biology (e.g., marine reserve network design). Students will have access to a
traditional wet lab to conduct experimental work in coastal ecosystems and a dry lab for highperformance computing. Funding via teaching and research assistantships is available. Students
with a background in mathematics and programming are particularly encouraged to apply.
The Marine Science Center is located just 15 miles from Boston and is home to a diverse faculty
with expertise in conservation biology, fisheries, evolutionary ecology, climate change, ecosystem
functioning, and quantitative ecology.
If you are interested in joining the lab, please read my letter to prospective students
(http://www.northeastern.edu/synchrony/people/prospective-students) and then send me (Dr.
Tarik Gouhier: tarik.gouhier@gmail.com) an email with (1) your CV including GPA and GRE scores,
(2) a brief description of your research interests (no more than one page), and how they relate to
the the lab’s.
Funded graduate positions in microbial ecology in Montreal (9/12)
Graduate student positions (M.Sc. or Ph.D.) available: Montreal QC,Canada.
*Understanding the importance of insect and plant microbiomes during spruce budworm outbreaks*
Fully-funded graduate student positions (M.Sc. or Ph.D.) are available for motivated students interested in
studying the ecology of microbial communities (microbiomes) associated with spruce budworm and their
host trees during the current outbreak that is having major impacts on Quebec forests.
The objectives of the project are to use field surveys and experimental manipulations of spruce budworm
and host tree microbiomes, in order to understand the processes responsible for variation in microbial
community structure in the budworm gut at multiple scales, and to quantify the effect of gut microbes on
budworm growth, survival, and ecological interactions.
Students will be co-supervised by Dr. Steven Kembel (UQAM) and Dr. Patrick James (UdeM), and/or Dr.
Daniel Kneeshaw (UQAM). The students will also work closely with a multidisciplinary team carrying out
research on spruce budworm outbreak dynamics and forest ecology, including Dr. Louis DeGrandpré,
and Dr. Deepa Pureswaran (Canadian Forest Service, NRCan). Students will have the opportunity to
develop projects and receive training in diverse areas including field ecology, laboratory and greenhouse
experiments, high-throughput environmental sequencing, biostatistics, and bioinformatics for the
quantification of microbiome structure.
The ideal candidate will have a strong academic record and an interest in ecology (insect, plant, or
microbial) and quantitative methods in community ecology or bioinformatics.
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the positions have been filled. To apply,
please submit a cover letter stating your research interests, CV, unofficial transcripts, and contact
information for three references to:
Dr. Steven Kembel (kembel.steven_w@uqam.ca)
Dr. Patrick James (patrick.ma.james@umontreal.ca)
Dr. Daniel Kneeshaw (kneeshaw.daniel@uqam.ca)
PhD student: Using LiDAR to estimate tree disintegration and decay (9/12)
We seek a PhD student for a NASA funded project who will estimate the disintegration and decay of
standing dead trees using LiDAR. The student will be in the Department of Ecosystem Science and
Management at Texas A&M University working with Drs. Sorin Popescu, Georgianne Moore, and Jason
Vogel. The student will collaborate with a post-doctoral scientist to collect LiDAR images using both a
ground based and an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) platform, and then the PhD student will model how
these images relate to changes in a dead tree’s three dimensional structure and aboveground mass.
Individuals interested in remote sensing, forest ecology, ecosystem carbon cycling, or ecological
modeling are encouraged to apply.
Applicants should be comfortable working in field conditions and doing fairly strenuous work. Funds for a
generous stipend and tuition are available for three years. Preference will be given to students with a prior
MSc in a related field, or applicable experience in a related topic. Candidates available to start in the
spring, summer, or fall of 2015 will be considered. Interested individuals should send a cover letter,
curriculum vitae, and university transcripts to Dr. Jason G. Vogel (jason_vogel@tamu.edu), Dr.
Georgianne Moore (gwmoore@tamu.edu) or Dr. Sorin Popescu (s-popescu@tamu.edu).
Ph.D. opportunity: Arctic meltdown affects tropical seagrass meadows via
migrant shorebird (9/12)
Vacancy: PhD position
Arctic meltdown affects tropical seagrass meadows via migrant shorebird
Global warming is most pronounced in the Arctic. Hence, Arctic-breeding migrants might carry over the
ecological effects of climate change to their tropical wintering grounds. Although recently discovered,
reductions in body size are already considered a universal response to climate change. Red knots
(Calidris canutus), medium-sized shorebirds breeding as High Arctic as possible, are no exception to this
rule. Over the past 30 years, their bodies have been shrinking, notably with respect to body mass and bill
length. Preliminary analyses revealed that at their main wintering site (Banc d'Arguin, Mauritania, WestAfrica), small individuals with a short bill are now shifting niche by consuming readily accessible seagrass
rhizomes instead of deeper buried shellfish. Here we will (A) experimentally unravel the coupling between
body size and diet; (B) link survival rate to body size and diet; and (C) quantify the top-down effects of
rhizome-grazing on seagrass.
Whilst the field work will be carried in Mauritania, the laboratory and desk work will mainly be carried out
at the Department of Marine Ecology, NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research (Texel, the
Netherlands; <http://www.nioz.nl>http://www.nioz.nl). However, in this MARES-EU funded project, regular
visits will be made to the two partner universities, University of Aveiro (Portugal) and the University of Gda
sk (Poland).
Profile
The subject is open to highly motivated students that have a background in (marine) ecology, preferably
with affinities to birds. The proposed fieldwork in Banc d'Arguin will be embedded in large expeditions in
which a consortium of international researchers is involved. Henceforth, the candidate should be a team
player, but, at the same time, should be able to work independently under seemingly pleasant, but
sometimes tough, field circumstances. Because this project involves Dutch, Portuguese and Polish
partners, the regulations set by MARES-EU demand that candidates should have obtained their master
degree outside the Netherlands, Portugal and Poland.
Employment details
The candidate will be employed by NIOZ for a period of three years, under the collective agreement of
Dutch universities and research institutions. This includes a gross monthly salary of 2,800 including an
8%%-vacation bonus and end-of-year payment.
Graduate research assistantship in Climate Change and Soil Biogeochemistry
(9/12)
The recently established Lab of Climate Change and Soil Biogeochemistry seeks motivated graduate
students (M.S and Ph.D.) to study human accelerated environmental changes on biogeochemical cycles
at molecular to global scales. The group’s interdisciplinary research integrates field and laboratory
observations as well as modeling approaches to address questions that intersect external disturbances
and global biogeochemical cycles. Numerous research opportunities are available depending on the
applicant's interest but may include study of 1) climatic controls on soil organic matter decomposition and
greenhouse gas emission, 2) integration of model and data to improve prediction of soil and ecosystem
responses to climate change, 3) land-use changes on temporal and spatial heterogeneity of soil carbon
and nutrients, and 4) synthesis of iron (Fe) biogeochemistry at molecular to global scales. Applicants
must have a Bachelor's degree in environmental science, soil science, biology, ecology or a closely
related field. Laboratory and/or field research experience is mandatory, but evidence of robust analytical
skills, passion for scientific inquiry and aptitude for collaborative research are expected.
To apply, please send a statement of interest, complete CV, unofficial copies of transcript, GRE and/or
TOEFL scores, and contact information for three professional references as a single PDF file
to jli2@tnstate.edu. Review of applicants will begin immediately and the expected start date is spring
2015. Principle Investigator: Jianwei Li, Assistant Professor, Department of Agriculture and Environmental
Science, Tennessee State University, Nashville, Tennessee 37209.
Website: http://www.tnstate.edu/agriculture/resumes/jianwei_li.aspx
PhD in Arctic Plant Physiology (9/12)
The Terrestrial Ecosystem Science & Technology (TEST) group at Brookhaven National Laboratory/Stony
Brook University is currently recruiting Ph.D. students with one (or more) of the following skill sets:
Experience with portable infrared gas analyzers.
An understanding of photosynthesis and experience modeling gas exchange.
Knowledge of Arctic plant communities and their ecology.
Experience conducting field work, particularly in extreme environments.
A degree in the biological sciences is required, preferably in plant biology. Candidates with an interest in
the measurement and model representation of leaf and plant community gas exchange, and those with
extensive experience working with Arctic plant communities are strongly encouraged to apply. Students
will be supervised by Dr. Alistair Rogers and have the opportunity to structure their thesis research
around a multi institute U.S. Department of Energy Arctic research project, Next Generation
Ecosystem Experiments-Arctic (NGEE-Arctic, ngee.ornl.gov).
The successful candidate will have the opportunity to conduct field research on the North Slope of Alaska,
collaborate with over one hundred scientists engaged in the NGEE-Arctic project, and the faculty and
scientists at Stony Brook University and Brookhaven National Laboratory. Financial support may
be available through a combination of research grants, graduate fellowships, and teaching opportunities.
Please send CV and cover letter describing research interests to Dr. Alistair Rogers (arogers@bnl.gov).
The deadline for applicants to the Ecology & Evolution doctoral program at Stony Brook University is
January 15th.
Graduate opportunities in ecosystem ecology (9/5)
Graduate opportunities are available in the area of ecosystem ecology, biogeochemistry, and stable
isotope ecology. The first project examines emission sources and impacts on ecosystems in the Pacific
Northwest. This is a collaborative project with scientists from the National Park Service. The second
project is in collaboration with Prof. John Bishop (http://sbs.wsu.edu/faculty/?faculty/5) and examines
recovery of ecosystem processes during primary succession. The fieldwork for the project will be at
Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument and successful applicants will join an active research
team with ongoing projects at the site. The successful applicants must be capable of field work for
extended periods. Support is provided by internal assistantships and graduate endowments in the School
of Biological Sciences (http://sbs.wsu.edu/index1.html) at Washington State University. Successful
applicants will join a highly collaborative, interdisciplinary group with the opportunity to focus on nitrogen
dynamics (http://igert.nspire.wsu.edu/) and Earth Systems Modeling
(http://www.cereo.wsu.edu/bioearth/). The WSU Stable Isotope Core Facility is also a state-of-the-art
research facility with five mass spectrometers and supporting equipment. Washington State University is
a land grant, comprehensive research institution with an enrollment of over 27,000 students with state-ofthe-art facilities in ecology. The University is one of the largest residential universities in the West and is
in close proximity to both the Northern Rocky Mountains and the Cascade Range. Pullman and nearby
Moscow provide a friendly, small-town living environment. Close collaborations also exist with ecologists
at the University of Idaho, which is a land grant research university of 12,500 students located eight miles
away. For further information please contact Prof. R. Dave Evans
(rdevans@wsu.edu<mailto:rdevans@wsu.edu>) in the School of Biological Sciences.
R. Dave Evans
Professor of Biology
Director, WSU Stable Isotope Core Laboratory
School of Biological Sciences
PO Box 644236
Washington State University
Pullman, WA 99164-4236
Office: 509-335-7466
Lab: 509-335-6154
FAX: 509-335-3184
http://sbs.wsu.edu/faculty/?faculty/48
http://www.isotopes.wsu.edu
Graduate student positions in species interactions and quantitative/theoretical
ecology and evolution (9/5)
We seek bright, independent, question-driven students with interests in the ecology or evolution of
species interactions, dispersal and spatial population dynamics, theoretical ecology and evolution, and
community ecology. Funding for all students in our program is guaranteed for five years through a
combination of TAships and RAships. Our labs form an interactive group studying species interactions
within terrestrial and marine systems from both empirical and quantitative/theoretical perspectives.
Brian Inouye’s lab (http://bio.fsu.edu/~binouye/) focuses on understanding the roles of spatial and
temporal variation in population and community ecology and linking theoretical and empirical approaches.
Empirical work in the lab focuses on insects and plants. Students have worked on questions ranging from
estimating interaction webs to landscape ecology to plasticity in plant resource allocation.
Email: binouye@bio.fsu.edu
Leithen M’Gonigle’s lab (http://nature.berkeley.edu/~leithen/) focuses on a broad range of questions
involving species interactions, species-co-existence, host-parasite co-evolution, and sexual selection.
Students in his lab should have some demonstrated interest in quantitative theory and/or preparation in
fields such as mathematical biology, mathematics, programming, and physics.
Email: lmgonigle@bio.fsu.edu
Nora Underwood’s lab (http://bio.fsu.edu/~nunderwood/homepage/ ) focuses on empirical studies of the
ecology and evolution of plant/insect interactions, particularly questions relating to dynamic properties of
these systems such as population growth and spread, associational effects, natural selection,
interspecific interactions (competition, pollination, predation), and inducible defenses, in some cases
combining those empirical results with models. Email: nunderwood@bio.fsu.edu
Scott Burgess’s lab (http://scottburgessecology.wordpress.com) focuses on the population biology of
coastal marine invertebrates (such as bryozoans, gastropods, bivalves, polychaetes, and corals). Topics
studied include larval dispersal and physiology, phenotypic plasticity, local adaptation, competition, and
population connectivity. Research typically combines experimental approaches in the field and lab with
quantitative models of life history evolution and population dynamics in changing environments.
Email: sburgess@bio.fsu.edu
Tom Miller’s lab (http://bio.fsu.edu/%7Emiller/HOMEPAGE/) studies species interactions and community
ecology in a wide range of systems, from protozoa and bacteria in pitcher plants to vegetation on barrier
islands. We are currently most interested in (1) the interaction between evolution and competition in
structuring communities and (2) the determinants of plant community structure on barrier islands.
Email: miller@bio.fsu.edu
The Florida State Ecology and Evolution group (http://www.bio.fsu.edu/ee/ ) is a highly interactive and
supportive community of about 20 faculty and 50 graduate students, with a particular strength in
combining ecological and evolutionary perspectives. FSU is located in the Florida panhandle, with
easy access to diverse natural habitats including long-leaf pine forests and savannas, springs and rivers,
spectacular beaches and marine habitats in national forests, wildlife refuges and TNC properties, as well
as old-fields and agricultural land.
Interested students should contact the professor(s) (M’Gonigle, Inouye, Underwood, Burgess, Miller) who
most closely match their interests by email, including a cover letter describing background and research
interests and a CV with names of two or more references.
Ph.D/M.S. positions available in Global Change Ecology (9/5)
Ph.D. and M.S. positions in Global Change Ecology at the University of Connecticut
Adviser: Morgan W. Tingley
The Tingley Lab in Global Change Ecology in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the
University of Connecticut seeks creative and motivated PhD and MS students to join the lab in the
Summer/Fall of 2015. Our research utilizes field data and biodiversity data to explore how large-scale
anthropogenic drivers of change (e.g., climate change, invasive species, land-use change, fire regimes)
affect geographic distributions and community interactions over short to long timespans, from years to
centuries. Most of our research explores these topics using birds as the primary study organism.
Potential research topics include (but are not limited to) 1) distributional ecology and the mechanisms that
define range limits; 2) the impact of climate change and other emerging threats on wildlife; 3) the ecology
and life histories of threatened birds; 4) the challenge of conserving biodiversity in an increasingly
modified world and/or; 5) using historical field data to understand processes of change. Research projects
will have opportunities to draw from extensive existing databases as well as collect new field data at
current field sites in eastern and western U.S. mountain ranges. Enthusiasm, excellent written and oral
communication abilities, and strong quantitative skills are necessary. Backgrounds in ornithology,
modeling, and statistics are desired.
**Application process**
Interested and qualified candidates should read through the lab's Frequently Asked Questions
(http://www.morgantingley.com/home/join/) and send an email describing their motivation and research
interests along with, at minimum, a CV, GPA, and GRE scores to
<mailto:morgan.tingley@uconn.edu>morgan.tingley@uconn.edu. Strong applicants will be contacted for
scheduling an informal interview in person or over the phone. Applications to UConn are due December
15th. Financial support for Ph.D. and M.S. students is available from research assistantships, teaching
assistantships, and university fellowships, but applications to outside funding sources are strongly
encouraged.
*About the University of Connecticut*
The University of Connecticut (UConn) has been one of the nation's leading public institutions since its
founding in 1881. Located in Storrs, UConn's main campus is situated in the picturesque rolling forests
and fields quintessential of New England, yet is only 30 minutes from Hartford, and has close connections
to Providence, Boston and New York. The Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology consists of
over 30 faculty and 60 graduate students with research spanning nearly all major groups of organisms.
The Department maintains close ties with the Departments of Physiology and Neurobiology, Molecular
and Cell Biology, Marine Sciences, and Natural Resources Management and Engineering, as well as the
Center for Environmental Sciences and Engineering, which together comprise one of the largest groups
of biologists in the Northeast.
Job opportunity: Estuarine Research Program Specialists (9/5)
The University of Michigan Water Center is seeking experienced, self-starters who are committed to
bridging science, policy and management to support the development of science to support the
management of the nation’s 28 National Estuarine Research Reserves. The Center is undertaking
an initial, five-year effort to work with members of the National Estuarine Research Reserve System
(NERRS) leadership to identify and address priority management issues and knowledge gaps, work with
multi-disciplinary and multi-sector experts in estuarine science and management to develop and
improve usable science outputs, and evaluate, synthesize and disseminate information and approaches
to managers and policy makers responsible for management in the nation’s estuaries. Interviews for
qualified candidates will begin in September 2014.
View the full job posting here:
http://umjobs.org/job_detail/98878/research_area_specialist_inter
PhD positions in Biodiversity and Macroecology (9/5)
I am accepting applications for one or two PhD positions in the Hurlbert lab in the Department of Biology
at the University of North Carolina beginning in Fall 2015. Research in the lab is currently focused along
three related lines. 1) Empirically testing the generality of a new biodiversity framework that integrates
both local and regional influences across a wide range of taxonomic groups (birds, plants, insects, fish,
plankton, etc). 2) Developing and exploring eco-evolutionary simulation models of diversification across
the latitudinal gradient, and using these models to perform stronger tests of existing biodiversity theory. 3)
Avian macroecology using big data, exploring how environmental constraints shape patterns of
distribution, diversity, and migration timing at continental to global extents. The ideal candidate has
previous research experience, demonstrated writing ability, and some programming experience (R,
Matlab, Python). Students will be supported on some combination of teaching and research
assistantships.
The deadline for application materials submitted to the graduate school is December 2, 2014. Information
on applying is available at http://bio.unc.edu/graduate/eeob/apply/. However, prospective students
should contact Dr. Hurlbert (hurlbert@bio.unc.edu) well in advance of applying to discuss research
interests and relevant qualifications. In your contact email, please describe your GPA, GRE scores,
previous research experience, current research interests, and how those interests relate to the Hurlbert
Lab.
M.S. & Ph.D. Student Positions in Aquatic Ecology (Ohio State) (9/5)
Research opportunities: Dr. Stuart Ludsin (http://www.ludsinlab.com/) and Dr. Elizabeth Marschall
(http://www.ael.osu.edu/people/marschall) have openings for M.S. and Ph.D. students to conduct basic
and applied research in aquatic ecology in a variety of ecosystems using field, laboratory, experimental,
and modeling approaches. General research areas include: 1) exploring life-history traits, optimal energy
and parental effort allocation, and physiological and behavioral responses of fish to a changing
environment; 2) understanding how population structure, community and ecosystem processes, and
physical factors interact to drive recruitment, movement behavior, and population demographics of top
predators in Lake Erie (e.g., Walleye, Yellow Perch, Smallmouth Bass) and Ohio reservoirs (e.g.,
Saugeye, Hybrid Striped Bass, Blue Catfish); 3) developing and using natural tags (genetic markers,
otolith microchemistry) in Lake Erie Walleye and Yellow Perch to discriminate local breeding populations
(i.e., stocks), assess stock structure, and quantify population connectivity; and 4) using acoustic telemetry
and other tagging techniques to assess the behavior (e.g., vertical and horizontal movement, spawning,
foraging) of Walleye and Yellow Perch in Lake Erie. We expect to have funding to support 2-4 graduate
students for the duration of their graduate degree. Incumbent students could be advised jointly by Drs.
Marschall and Ludsin or independently. Exact project details will not be known until late September or
early October.
Location: Successful candidates will join a dynamic, interactive group of students, post-docs, and faculty
at The Ohio State University's Aquatic Ecology Laboratory (AEL; http://ael.osu.edu/) within the
Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology (EEOB; http://eeob.osu.edu/).
Qualifications: Successful applicants will be creative, motivated, and capable of working effectively both
independently and in collaborative groups. A degree in biology, ecology, general aquatic sciences, or a
related field is desired. Students must have strong writing and quantitative skills.
Stipend: ~$2,325/month plus full tuition waiver and health benefits. All students will be supported as
Graduate Research Associates (GRA), Graduate Teaching Associates (GTA), Fellows, or some
combination for their entire degree program.
Start date: Summer or fall 2015.
How to apply: The deadline for all graduate admissions applications is December 1, 2014. EEOB
graduate application procedures and forms can be found at http://eeob.osu.edu/grad/programadmissions and OSU Graduate School requirements at http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/. Information for
those seeking University Fellowship support can be found
at http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/OSUFellowships.htm.
As part of the AEL's unofficial screening of interested applicants, please email Dr. Stuart Ludsin
(ludsin.1@osu.edu<mailto:ludsin.1@osu.edu>) or Dr. Elizabeth Marschall
(marschall.2@osu.edu<mailto:marschall.2@osu.edu>): 1) a letter of interest that briefly describes your
educational and research background, describes your research interests, and specifies if you are
interested in pursuing a M.S. or Ph.D.; 2) a curriculum vitae (or resume) that also includes your GRE
scores and (if applicable) TOEFL/TSE scores; 3) an unofficial copy of your transcripts; and 4) contact
information for at least three professional references.
Contact information: For additional information, visit http://www.ael.osu.edu/ or contact Dr. Ludsin or Dr.
Marschall at the above email addresses.
Stuart A. Ludsin
PhD Fellowships at the University of Maryland Center for Environmental
Science (9/5)
The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES) is pleased to announce graduate
fellowships to support incoming Ph.D. students starting fall semester, 2015. The Presidential Fellowships
are merit-based and designed to support recruitment of outstanding students into the UMCES graduate
programs interested in working with any faculty member. Up to three years stipend, health benefits, and
tuition will be covered.
UMCES is Maryland’s premier research institution aimed at advancing scientific knowledge of the
environment. UMCES scientists conduct research at four laboratories: the Appalachian Laboratory in the
mountains of western Maryland, the Chesapeake Biological Laboratory on the western shore of
Chesapeake Bay, the Horn Point Laboratory on the Eastern Shore, and the Institute of Marine and
Environmental Technology in Baltimore.
UMCES faculty members advise and support more than 80 graduate students annually through three
collaborative Ph.D. programs: Marine Estuarine Environmental Sciences, Environmental Toxicology, and
the Graduate Program in Life Sciences.
For more information about the fellowships, see:
http://www.umces.edu/education/graduate/fellowships
For more information about UMCES, see: http://www.umces.edu
Research assistant: evolutionary traps (9/5)
Location: Hudson Valley, NY. Negotiable within the region.
Duration: 3 months, with possibility of extension to
Salary: $2000-2500, depending on qualifications
Job Description:
The Robertson lab at Bard College is in need of a research assistant to aid its research on how polarized
and unpolarized light pollution trigger evolutionary traps for aquatic insects and affect biodiversity. We
have conducted a series of light choice experiments throughout the Hudson Valley and have collected
tens of thousands of insects that need identification to the family level. The primary role of the research
assistant is to key all individuals to the family level and enter them in a database. The research assistant
can also work in proofing and managing the database. Willing and capable candidates may be invited to
participate in analyzing data and writing and preparing manuscripts for publication. Work hours can be
flexible, but the candidate will work a minimum of 40 hours a week. Because this work does not need to
be conducted at Bard, I am also flexible about candidates working from other locations. The research
assistant will, however, attend regular meetings to assess progress. For more information on
evolutionary traps please visit the lab website: brucerobertson@weebly.com
Qualifications: An ideal candidate will be capable of working and problem solving independently, but with
the support of the lab. A strong candidate will have experience identifying >2000 insects to the family or
lower taxonomic level, but all candidates must possess sufficient ability and willingness to learn how to
key out all insects and adopt efficient techniques for processing large numbers of individuals. Must be 18
years of age.
To Apply:
If interested please send cover letter, resume, and a list of any references to BRUCE ROBERTSON
(EM: broberts@bard.edu). Please allow 1 week after e-mailing for a response.
Bruce Robertson
Assistant Professor of Biology
Division of Science, Mathematics and Computing
Bard College
30 Campus Drive
Annandale-on-Hudson, New York 12504
Email: <mailto:broberts@bard.edu> broberts@bard.edu
Office: 845-752-2332
Homepage: brucerobertson.weebly.com
Two Fire Ecology Grad Assistantships- Virginia Tech (9/5)
Ph.D. and M.S. Graduate Research Assistantships in Fire Ecology at Virginia Tech
I am recruiting two graduate students (one M.S. and one Ph.D.) to work with me in the Department of
Forest Resources & Environmental Conservation at Virginia Tech beginning either spring 2015 or
summer 2015. The students will have some flexibility in specific topics, but the general research areas will
fall into one of these three general areas of fire and forest ecology:
Mechanisms of altered flammability in eastern US woodlands and forests- my lab has been focused on
laboratory-scale flammability of a diversity of species from North America. Our current work focuses on
understanding differential moisture and litterfall relationships and evaluating our lab-based findings in the
wild. Our interests are focused on oak-hickory ecosystems in north Mississippi and SW Virginia and
longleaf pine-oak ecosystems across the southeastern US.
Patterns of oak recovery across wildfire severity gradients- we have been working on understanding the
pathways of California black oak following wildfires in 2002 and a re-burn in 2012 in the southern
Cascades of northern California. Our current work is evaluating survival of remnant oaks and tracking the
effects of multiple fires on oak community composition and structure.
We have on-going work on the fire ecology of American chestnut, ecology of upland oaks in fire-prone
ecosystems, post-fire tree mortality, fire-disease-insect interactions, the ecological consequences of fuels
treatments (mostly mastication and prescribed fire) and others that could be pursued.
Strong applicants will be creative, have a competitive GPA, GRE scores, and have substantial research
experience, in the field and/or laboratory. Applicants for the Ph.D. position will have a strong research
background with publications and substantial statistical and/or modeling experience. Education and
training in fire ecology, a lack of fear of statistics, and great passion for your work will all help. In your
email to me (mvarner@vt.edu<mailto:mvarner@vt.edu> ), please include your research interests, a
resume/CV with relevant scores, a writing example, and contact information for two references who can
speak to your potential as a productive scholar.
Both positions have competitive stipends, tuition waivers, computing, and travel funding. Virginia Tech is
located in Blacksburg, an awesome college town in the Appalachian Mountains with a pleasant climate
and vibrant community. The Department of Forest Resources & Environmental Conservation is
consistently ranked among the world’s most outstanding forestry programs. Related departments across
Virginia Tech have related expertise in ecology, meteorology, materials flammability, and modeling.
Send material or direct questions:
J. Morgan Varner
Department of Forest Resources & Environmental Conservation
Virginia Tech
Email: mvarner@vt.edu
Tel. 540-231-4855
MSc. POSITION IN AGROFORESTRY AT THOMPSON RIVERS
UNIVERSITY (9/5)
MSc. POSITION IN AGROFORESTRY AT THOMPSON RIVERS UNIVERSITY, KAMLOOPS,
BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA
A Graduate Research Assistantship is available for a MSc candidate to work on an agroforestry project in
the semi-arid southern interior of British Columbia. The candidate would work closely with hydrologists,
soil scientists, silviculturalists and plant ecologists on a multi-faceted project determining best practices
for establishing hybrid poplar and an understory crop. The applicant will be responsible for undertaking
hybrid/cultivar selection and irrigation regime studies to determine best practices that minimize water use
and protecting local stream health, while providing optimal revenue.
The project is a partnership between a local First Nation band, a regional timber company, researchers at
BC's Ministry of Lands, Forests and Natural Resources and Thompson Rivers University. There will be
opportunities to establish strong relationships with all parties involved.
Applicants must have a BSc. in in ecology, silviculture, hydrology or an allied field. Experience with
hydrological or field techniques is desirable. To qualify for this position, the applicant must be a Canadian
citizen/permanent resident and must have received at least an A- GPA in their undergraduate studies.
Students would be admitted to Thompson Rivers University (Kamloops, BC) through the Environmental
Sciences MSc. program, with Dr. Thomas Pypker as advisor and mentor.
To apply send a letter of interest stating your qualifications and a current CV via email,
to Dr. Tom Pypker at tpypker@tru.ca.
Graduate Research Assistantship, Fire Ecology (8/30)
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
(stambaughm@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: stambaughm@missouri.edu
Website: http://web.missouri.edu/~stambaughm/
Graduate positions in Forest ecology and Forest Restoration Ecology (8/30)
Four graduate student positions (M.Sc. and Ph.D.) are available for forest ecology research investigating
the impact of abiotic stresses such as water and nutrient limitations and biotic conditions such as interand intra-specific competition on tree species. The research is part of a large project that investigates the
role of early successional tree species as reclamation species in mining areas of the boreal mixedwood
forest and parkland regions of Alberta. The overall aim of the research is to understand underlying forest
ecosystem processes, to develop innovative reclamation techniques, and to determine stand trajectories
to successfully regenerate surface mined lands to self-sustaining forests by restoring ecosystem functions
and processes that are essential for the development of resilient forests. Of particular interest are (1)
growth and biomass and resource allocation (rooting behaviour) in plants and their effect on water,
carbon, and nutrient cycling, (2) characteristics necessary to improve the success of planted tree
seedlings, (3) the impact of various growing conditions such as soil, water and nutrients on forest
establishment and growth, and 4) successional trajectories of ectomycorrhizal fungal communities.
Graduate students in this project will be under the supervision of Simon Landhäusser, Industrial Research
Chair in Forest Land Reclamation, Department of Renewable Resources at the University of Alberta,
(http://www.ales.ualberta.ca/rr/). Depending on the interest and quality of the applicants, the project offers
considerable flexibility in designing a research program that investigates areas of personal interest within
the overall framework of the project.
Background in plant biology, forest ecology or related field is essential, as is an interest in the linkages
between forests and disturbance. Experience with any of the following will be an asset, but is not
required: soil science, ecophysiology, plant nutrition, silviculture, and molecular techniques. Proficiency in
spoken and written English is a necessity. Selection of a student will be based on academic
achievements, reference letters and if applicable previous research experience. Strong verbal,
written, and computational skills are essential.
Application deadline: March 1, 2015 or until the positions are filled. Salary ranges between CAN$ 19,500
– 23,500 per year for a period of 2 years for a M.Sc. and 3 years for a Ph.D.; extensions are possible, but
will depend on student performance. Canadian students could also be eligible for Tri-Council graduate
scholarships (e.g. NSERC) in their first year. It is preferable that successful candidates start their
laboratory and fieldwork in May 2015 while applying to the graduate program at the University of
Alberta for the fall or winter of 2015. The applicants must meet the entrance requirement for the
University of Alberta, Department of Renewable Resources, which can be viewed at:
http://www.ales.ualberta.ca/rr/phdprograms.cfm
Interested candidates should e-mail their transcript, curriculum vitae, a letter describing their research
experience and interests (2 page limit), recent TOEFL scores (if appropriate), and the names and contact
information of three references to Dr. Simon Landhäusser, Department of Renewable Resources, 4-42
Earth Science Building, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E3, CANADA. Phone: (780)-4926381; Fax: (780)-492-1767.
Email: simon.landhausser@ualberta.ca
MSc student opportunity at the University of Manitoba, Experimental Lakes
Area in Fisheries Ecology (8/30)
MSc student opportunity at the University of Manitoba, Experimental Lakes Area in Fisheries Ecology
Over fifty whole-lake experiments have been carried out at the Experimental Lakes Area (ELA) during it’s
45 year tenure as a federal research facility. Now as an independent entity, IISD-Experimental Lakes
Area Inc. seeks to build upon it’s strong history in aquatic and fisheries research, and expand it’s
research scope towards new and exciting areas of investigation.
We are seeking a self-motivated student interested in fisheries ecology to join a multi-agency project
between IISD-Experimental Lakes Area (ELA), the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Fisheries
and Oceans Canada. The research goal of the student will be to apply back-calculation methods to
archived ageing structures in order to evaluate changes in fish growth associated with various
experimental manipulations conducted at the ELA. The student will also participate in a cross-agency
comparison of ageing structure preparation and determination methods, learning preparation and ageing
methods from experts in Fisheries and Oceans Canada and the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources
and Forestry. The student will conduct field research at the ELA to collect additional ageing structures
that will support these research activities, and will have opportunities to work with an extensive and
unique database cataloguing individual life histories of tagged fishes over decadal time scales. Students
who are competitive for internal (University) scholarships (minimum 3/4.5 GPA) are particularly
encouraged to apply. The earliest possible start date for the student is January 2015, but start dates as
late as September 2015 will be considered.
Students will have the opportunity to work with a diverse range of scientists within the ELA group, as well
as those at the University of Manitoba with expertise in food web ecology, genetics, conservation ecology
and advanced statistical analysis, and research scientists with DFO at the Freshwater Institute. Winnipeg
is a diverse city with an excellent arts and music scene.
Interested students should contact Dr. Michael D. Rennie, Adjunct Professor, University of Manitoba
(mdrennie@iisd-ela.org <mailto:mdrennie@iisd-ela.org>) for more information, accompanied by a current
CV and 2-3 academic references.
-------------------------Michael D. Rennie
Research Scientist
International Institute for Sustainable Development,
Experimental Lakes Area
161 Portage Avenue East, 6th Floor
Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada R3B 0Y4
Ph: 204.958.7796 Fax: 204.958.7710
Adjunct Professor, Department of Biological Sciences
University of Manitoba
Graduate Assistantships/Fellowships (8/30)
Graduate assistantships/fellowships are available for self-motivated students to conduct innovative and
high-impact research at the Center for Systems Integration and Sustainability (CSIS) at Michigan State
University. Research topics may include coupled human and natural systems, telecoupling
(socioeconomic and environmental interactions over distances, through means such as globalization,
human and animal migration, species dispersal, species invasion, disease spread, sound/noise
transmission, spread of pollutants and wastes, trade of goods and products, flows of ecosystem
services, environmental and hydrological flows, foreign investment, technology transfer, water transfer,
and tourism, www.csis.msu.edu/telecoupling <http://www.csis.msu.edu/telecoupling> ), sustainability
science, biodiversity conservation, ecosystem services, human well-being, land change science, forest
and landscape ecology, global change, systems integration (integration of ecology with demography,
economics, sociology, technology, and policy; integration of land, water, and/or energy), ecology and
management of wildlife (e.g., giant pandas in China), and systems modeling and simulation (e.g., agentbased modeling). Papers on these topics by CSIS faculty and students have been published in
journals such as Science, Nature, and PNAS (see http://csis.msu.edu/research/publications).
With flexible start dates, successful candidates can build on these previous studies and/or explore new
frontiers of research. They will also have opportunities to interact with leaders and peers in these fields
worldwide through various ways, such as the International Network of Research on Coupled Human and
Natural Systems (CHANS-Net.org) and the NASA-MSU Professional Enhancement Awards Program
(http://csis.msu.edu/news/2015_nasa_msu_award), which are organized by CSIS. More information
about CSIS is available at http://csis.msu.edu.
Application materials include: (1) letter of application, (2) statement of professional goals, (3) CV or
resume, (4) transcripts, (5) GRE scores, (6) TOEFL scores (for non-native English speakers only), (7) list
of 3-4 references (names and contact information), and (8) up to three representative publications if any.
Unofficial copies of GRE, TOEFL and transcripts are OK initially.
Applicants are encouraged to submit their application materials as soon as possible, or until the positions
are filled.
Please email the application materials to Dr. Jianguo (Jack) Liu at liuji@msu.edu <mailto:liuji@msu.edu>
. Questions about these opportunities can also be emailed to Dr. Liu.
Jianguo (Jack) Liu
Rachel Carson Chair in Sustainability
Center for Systems Integration and Sustainability
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI 48823-5243, USA
http://csis.msu.edu/people/jianguo-liu
PhD Position, Global change and stream ecosystem ecology (8/30)
Cross Lab: Department of Ecology, Montana State University
I am seeking a highly motivated student to join a new study focused on the interactive effects of climate
warming and nutrient enrichment on stream ecosystems. Our multi-institution team has been studying the
effects of warming in southwestern Iceland (a link to our blog: http://icelandstreams.blogspot.com/) using
a series of geothermally-heated streams and temperature manipulations. We are now planning
manipulations of nutrient supply (nitrogen and phosphorus) across natural and experimental thermal
gradients. The student’s research will focus on how stream food webs respond to these manipulations.
Applicants should have a strong background in ecology and freshwater science, an interest in food webs
and ecosystem ecology, and an ability/willingness to work with a large collaborative team of national and
international scientists (https://sites.google.com/site/hengillresearch/). The student should also have
demonstrated field and laboratory experience. Field work may involve long hours and moderately
strenuous sampling in wet and cold conditions.
The student will be supported by both teaching and research assistantships. To learn more about the
Cross Lab or the Department of Ecology at Montana State University please
visit: http://www.montana.edu/wcross and http://www.montana.edu/ecology/. Applicants with a master’s
degree are preferred, but an MS is not required.
To apply, please send a brief letter of interest, a resume, GPA, GRE scores, and a writing example to: Dr.
Wyatt Cross at wyatt.cross@montana.edu. The position is available beginning in Spring of 2015, but an
early summer start date will be considered.
Ph.D. positions at the University of Kansas (8/30)
The Billings lab at the University of Kansas is seeking two Ph.D. students interested in pursuing
biogeochemical questions in terrestrial ecosystem ecology. We seek 1) a student interested in exploring
how historic land use change and climate interact to drive soil carbon and nitrogen fluxes in forests in the
southeastern U.S., at the new Calhoun Critical Zone Observatory (http://criticalzone.org/calhoun/) and 2)
a student to investigate the influence of native and manipulated temperature regime on soil CO2 and N2O
fluxes along a boreal forest latitudinal transect in eastern Canada (http://publications.gc.ca/site/archiveearchived.html?url=http://publications.gc.ca/collections/collection_2014/rncan-nrcan/Fo104-2-2013eng.pdf (you must click the 'Continue to PDF' link for the relevant information)).
Both positions require the implementation of controlled laboratory studies as well as field xperiments. For
details, please contact me, after visiting the lab web page below. Instructions are there for how best to
express interest in my lab.
Best wishes,
Sharon Billings
*********
Dr. Sharon Billings
Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
Kansas Biological Survey
University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS 66047
785-864-1560, sharon.billings@ku.edu<mailto:sharon.billings@ku.edu>
www.billingslab.faculty.ku.edu<http://www.billingslab.faculty.ku.edu/>
www.soil-journal.net<http://www.soil-journal.net/>