I think there are two parts of biodiversity. First, there are various definitions that biologists use as they study both systems and species. Here we may use species richness or other diversity measures as appropriate. For example, there has been some argument that "diverse" systems are more resilient, proving that "biodiversity" fosters "resistance" of some ecological communities to invasion by nonnative species. I realize I am opening myself up here to all kinds of flack, but this leads me to the second part, which is that biodiversity has some value to society. So, planners and biologists may "conserve" biodiversity as a part of a series of societal goals, like providing housing, recreation, stormwater control, and others. In this latter case, I believe those working in the field (I include myself here) are attempting to encourage the conservation of intrinsic natural systems along with the "use" of those systems to protect economic values. So, if we create an impoundment! to prevent flooding of a town, we may also manage that for native species as opposed to creating an attractive fishing and boating spot.
The first part may be hard for some nonscientists to understand and the second may be a value of low importance or one that may interfere with other values. If we create that impoundment, some may want to stock it with fish they like to fish for, as opposed to native fish. Conserving biodiversity may conflict with that purpose. Michael S. Batcher, MS, AICP Ecologist and Environmental Planner 1907 Buskirk-West Hoosick Rd. Buskirk, NY 12028 Phone: (518) 686-5868 -----Original Message----- From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of ECOLOG-L automatic digest system Sent: Thursday, December 16, 2010 12:00 AM To: [email protected] Subject: ECOLOG-L Digest - 14 Dec 2010 to 15 Dec 2010 (#2010-342) There are 18 messages totalling 1218 lines in this issue. Topics of the day: 1. Assistant Professor in Ecology 2. Graduate Assistantships (MS or PhD) in Forest Soil Carbon Dynamics and Gas Fluxes at Virginia Tech 3. Defining biodiversity, and does the term capture the public's attention? 4. Call for Applications: NIMBioS REU/REV Summer Program 5. NSF-REU at Georgia Tech 6. 3 Postdoctoral positions in Applied Conservation Science 7. ESA Agroecology Section Website (2) 8. Catalina Island Volunteering - Organic Gardening 9. Some resources re: Biodiversity 10. Internship in Organic and Isotope Geochemistry 11. Graduate positions: extinction, invasion, ecosystem engineering 12. Assistant Professor of Biology/Environmental Science 13. ECOLOG-L Digest - 13 Dec 2010 to 14 Dec 2010 (#2010-341) 14. conference announcement: biodiversity-friendly cacao certification 15. Biodiversity definition CONCEPT Challenge See also definition of biodiversity Re: [ECOLOG-L] ECOLOG-L Digest - 13 Dec 2010 to 14 Dec 2010 (#2010-341) 16. Call for Papers: Seasons and phenology: Evidence from observations, reconstructions, measurements and models at EGU (Austria) 17. program coordinator position at the University of California, Irvine ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Date: Tue, 14 Dec 2010 15:17:26 -0500 From: Matt Forister <[email protected]> Subject: Assistant Professor in Ecology Dear Colleagues, the University of Nevada, Reno, is advertising for an Ecologist position (assistant professor), please see description below and feel free to contact me with questions. Matt Forister, [email protected]. The Biology Department at the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) has targeted EECB (ecology, evolution, and conservation biology) as a strategic focus for growth and is seeking: An ECOLOGIST - Assistant Professor (tenure track) The position is open with regard to area of specialization. The department’s areas of research excellence include conservation biology, conservation and evolutionary genetics, behavioral ecology, and evolutionary ecology. Our EECB faculty are well funded by diverse sources, including NSF and NIH. Applicants for this position should have expertise that complements and expands the research capacity of the department. The successful candidate will be provided with a competitive start-up package and will be expected to maintain nationally recognized, extramurally funded research programs. The Department has 765 majors, 45 MS and PhD students, and 24 state-funded faculty. In addition, a new interdisciplinary program in Neuroscience supports 114 majors. Reno sits on the eastern flank of the Sierra Nevada in close proximity to desert and montane field sites and to Lake Tahoe, and it was recently rated one of the best small cities in the US for overall quality of life. Applicants should apply online at www.unrsearch.com, where they should submit an application letter, a curriculum vitae, a statement of research plans, a statement of teaching interests and philosophy, and contact information for three references. Please see https://www.unrsearch.com/postings/8591 for additional details. Applications received by 21 January 2010 will receive full consideration. Start date for the position is fall semester 2011. Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action. Women and underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 15 Dec 2010 05:37:24 -0500 From: =?ISO-8859-1?Q?Brian_Strahm?= <[email protected]> Subject: Graduate Assistantships (MS or PhD) in Forest Soil Carbon Dynamics and Gas Fluxes at Virginia Tech Graduate Research Assistantship in Forest Soil Carbon Dynamics and Gas Fluxes Department of Forest Resources and Environmental Conservation Virginia Tech The Department of Forest Resources and Environmental Conservation at Virginia Tech is seeking applicants for a USDA-funded graduate research assistantship (MS or PhD) expected to begin in the summer or fall of 2011. Research will focus on understanding the temporal and spatial variability in soil CO2 efflux in a novel bioenergy production system where traditional loblolly pine silviculture is intercropped with switchgrass as a cellulosic feedstock. Additional research will center on partitioning autotrophic/heterotrophic soil respiration, characterizing the fluxes of other greenhouse gasses (N2O, CH4), investigating soil organic matter stability, and using stable isotope (13C) techniques to understand the fate and fluxes of switchgrass-derived C. This research is part of a large collaborative effort between Weyerhaeuser, NC State University, Virginia Tech and the US Forest Service that will allow the student a great opportunity to establish contacts with a diverse group of scientists. Research assistantships include a full tuition waiver, benefits, and a competitive annual stipend including summer support (~$19,000 - $21,000). For more information on the graduate program in the Department of Forest Resources and Environmental Conservation at Virginia Tech, please visit: www.frec.vt.edu. Interested students should contact: Dr. Brian D. Strahm Assistant Professor of Forest Soils and Ecology Department of Forest Resources and Environmental Conservation 228 Cheatham Hall (0324) Virginia Tech Blacksburg, VA 24061 540-231-8627 [email protected] www.soils.frec.vt.edu ------------------------------ Date: Tue, 14 Dec 2010 20:58:46 -0500 From: Elizabeth Burnett <[email protected]> Subject: Re: Defining biodiversity, and does the term capture the public's attention? Euan and All, I believe the basic definition of "biodiversity" is species richness or the number of species in a given ecosystem. I personally think of biodiversity in more complex terms, where there are a variety of living organisms that inhabit a variety of niches within an ecosystem. I believe much of the public does understand this term (it is somewhat of a self-explanatory nature) but I think the obstacle is lack of appreciation for biodiversity. I don't believe this appreciation or connection to biodiversity can be established on an individual level by a word alone. I think these things are established through individual interaction with this biodiversity. If this is true, perhaps we ought not find a new term to convey the importance of species diversity to the public, but instead think of new experiences they could participate in that would allow them to understand and appreciate biodiversity on a deeper level, as we do. Even with all the proper education on the workings of ecosystems, some people will likely not care to preserve/conserve. For many, they must experience these connections on a deeper, more personal level. This idea is and has been established in the connections between people and outdoor recreation as well as people and "nature" art (painting, writing, etc.). E Burnett ----- Original Message ----- From: "Euan Ritchie" <[email protected]> To: [email protected] Sent: Monday, December 13, 2010 6:05:31 PM GMT -05:00 US/Canada Eastern Subject: [ECOLOG-L] Defining biodiversity, and does the term capture the public's attention? Hi everyone, I have just returned from the Ecological Society of Australia meeting and among other issues, there was much discussion about the term biodiversity. Many people argue that this term is hard to define, and importantly, the public have no idea what it actually means and therefore they have less connection/concern to preserve/conserve species and habitats. I thought it would be interesting to hear how others define biodiversity, and if this term isn't helpful for conveying the importance of species diversity to the public, what term(s) should we use? Over to you, Euan Dr. Euan G. Ritchie, Lecturer in Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, 3125, Australia. Building T, Room T3.09.3 Phone: 03 9251 7606 International: +61 3 9251 7606 Mobile: 041 888 2992 Fax: 03 9251 7626 International: +61 3 9251 7626 Email: [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]> Skype: euanritchie Website: http://www.deakin.edu.au/scitech/les/staff/ritchiee/ Deakin University CRICOS Provider Code 00113B Important Notice: The contents of this email are intended solely for the named addressee and are confidential; any unauthorised use, reproduction or storage of the contents is expressly prohibited. If you have received this email in error, please delete it and any attachments immediately and advise the sender by return email or telephone. Deakin University does not warrant that this email and any attachments are error or virus free. ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 15 Dec 2010 10:47:16 -0500 From: Catherine Crawley <[email protected]> Subject: Call for Applications: NIMBioS REU/REV Summer Program The National Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS) is now taking applications for its 8-week long summer research program for undergraduates (REU) and veterinary students (REV) interested in research at the interface between mathematics and biology. The program takes place May 31- July 22, 2010 on the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, campus. Undergraduate majors in biology, math, and related fields,veterinary students, and high school math and biology teachers will live on campus and work in teams with UTK faculty. Disease modeling, population dynamics, behavioral ecology and intracellular transport processes are among this year's research topics. Stipend and housing are provided along with some funding for travel. * Application Deadline: February 18, 2011* To apply to the Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU), go to http://www.nimbios.org/education/reu2011 To apply to the Research Experience for Veterinary Students (REV), go to http://www.nimbios.org/education/rev2011 To read about the experiences of past participants, go to http://www.nimbios.org/press/reu_profiles2010 For more information about NIMBioS, go to http://www.nimbios.org or contact Kelly Moran, NIMBioS Education and Outreach Coordinator, at [email protected] or Suzanne Lenhart, NIMBioS Associate Director of Education, Outreach and Diversity, NIMBioS, [email protected] -- Catherine Crawley, Ph.D. Communications Coordinator National Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS) University of Tennessee 1534 White Avenue Knoxville, TN 37996-1527 Phone: (865) 974-9350 Fax: (865) 974-9461 Email: [email protected] http://www.nimbios.org http://twitter.com/nimbios ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 15 Dec 2010 09:51:13 -0500 From: =?iso-8859-1?Q?Benita_Black?= <[email protected]> Subject: NSF-REU at Georgia Tech We will be hosting 9 NSF-REU participants this summer at Georgia Tech focusing loosely on the theme of Aquatic Chemical Ecology. We would like to ask for your help in publicizing this program to undergraduates. Our program website is http://www.biology.gatech.edu/undergraduate- program/reu/ including program details, application process, and contact information. Our research theme of Aquatic Chemical Ecology has 3 core areas of research from which students can choose: Biological and geochemical transformations of chemicals in aquatic ecosystems; Sensory biology and ecology of aquatic chemical communication; Ecological roles and consequences of chemicals in aquatic environments. This program is an excellent choice for undergraduates majoring in any field of biology, chemistry, earth/ocean science, civil engineering, environmental engineering, chemical engineering, and related bioengineering areas who want to apply their classroom learning to an interdisciplinary research environment to solve complex scientific problems and learn about the importance of chemically-mediated processes. The application deadline is February 15, 2011. The full-time, 10-week program will start in late May and run until the end of July. Participants will receive a stipend of $4500 plus accommodations with kitchen facilities in university housing, and help with travel expenses to and from Atlanta. Students can go to our website to get more information and to apply. Any U.S. citizen or permanent resident who is currently enrolled in an undergraduate degree program is eligible, unless they have already been part of an NSF-REU program in Ocean Sciences or unless they will graduate before this summer. We are particularly interested in increasing our proportion of minority students and in reaching students at non-PhD granting universities. We hope that you can send us your bright, curious, and motivated students! ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 15 Dec 2010 10:43:30 -0800 From: Rebecca Lewison <[email protected]> Subject: 3 Postdoctoral positions in Applied Conservation Science The Institute of Ecological Monitoring and Management (http://iemm.sdsu.edu) has funding for three postdoctoral research scientists in applied conservation science and management. Each position has funding for two years, with potential for renewal. The research scientists will join a team of faculty in the Department of Biology at San Diego State University in an ongoing project to develop and implement multi-species monitoring and management programs. In collaboration with local agency scientists, land managers and government officials, the research scientists will · Design single species and ecosystem-level conceptual models, monitoring programs, and management plans · Develop monitoring and data analysis protocols to support management actions · Author peer-reviewed literature on emerging topics in applied conservation science · Facilitate workshops and multi-stakeholder meetings · Train agency staff in field and analytical methods · Support grant-writing efforts to implement monitoring and management needs Candidates must have · A PhD in ecology, conservation, or related field · Experience in applied conservation science and management · Excellent written and oral communication skills · Grant writing experience To build a research team, we will select candidates with complementary skill sets. These include: a strong background in statistical and other quantitative analyses, scientific writing, database management, GIS and related computational skills, conservation policy, and field sampling methods. Applicants must be able to synthesize and critically evaluate existing information from multiple sources including expert opinion, agency documents, technical reports and peer-reviewed literature. We particularly encourage applicants with experience in multi-species and ecosystem conservation efforts. Review of applications to commence on Jan 10 and will continue until positions are filled. Please send your statement of interest, CV, names of 3 professional references, and a recent writing sample to <mailto:[email protected]>[email protected] Drs. Rebecca Lewison <mailto:[email protected]>[email protected] & Doug Deutschman <mailto:[email protected]>[email protected], San Diego State University Rebecca Lewison, Ph.D. Assistant Professor Biology Dept San Diego State University 5500 Campanile Dr San Diego, CA 92182 [email protected] Phone: (619) 594-8287 Fax: (619) 594-5676 ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 15 Dec 2010 11:22:52 -0800 From: Rich Smith <[email protected]> Subject: ESA Agroecology Section Website Dear ECOLOG subscribers,  I wanted to let those of you who are interested in sustainable agriculture and agroecology (but are not yet members of the ESA Agroecology Section) know that our new Agroecology Section website is now up and running.  Please take a few moments to check it out.  http://www.esa.org/agroecology/index.html  The site will be updated on a regular basis and new content pertaining to agroecology science and practice will be added frequently—so check it often. You’ll also notice that you have the ability to interact with the site through Facebook and twitter, and we hope that you will take the opportunity to do so.  If you are interested in sustainable agriculture and agroecology, please consider joining ESA's Agroecology Section when you initiate or renew your ESA membership (there's a link on the website).  Many thanks to our Secretary/Treasurer/Web-master, John Quinn, for his tireless efforts to put the site together.  Sincerely,  Rich Smith, Chair (on behalf of the Agroecology Section Officers)  -------------------------------------------------------------- Richard G. Smith Assistant Professor of Agroecology Department of Natural Resources and the Environment 264 James Hall University of New Hampshire Durham, NH 03824 Email: [email protected] (603) 862-2724 Office (603) 953-3396 Cell http://nre.unh.edu/faculty/smith ---------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 15 Dec 2010 11:29:24 -0800 From: Ryan Shepherd <[email protected]> Subject: Catalina Island Volunteering - Organic Gardening Camp Emerald Bay is looking for a qualified volunteer to spend several months on Catalina Island, helping us as we develop an environmental program for the thousands of young adults we host every year. The volunteer's primarily responsibility will be to maintain and develop our garden and compost facility, which has 350 sq. ft. of planter beds. Other work can be tailored to meet the individual’s learning objectives. Emerald Bay is a camp located on the west end of the island, off the California coast. A far cry from the bustling tourist destination of Avalon, the West End offers camp staff unparalleled opportunities for hiking, trail running, swimming, snorkeling, mountain biking, kayaking, camping, and many more activities. A 'run into town' requires some planning, as the nearest town of Two Harbors is a 30-minute drive down dirt roads; but the island's spectacular beauty and atmosphere more than make up for any lack of modern conveniences. The full announcement is available here: http://www.campemeraldbay.org/system/files/emeraldbay/Garden_Volunteer_Announcement.pdf Please contact Ryan Shepherd at [email protected] to request an application. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis, with priority given to early applicants. Acceptance is usually announced two months prior to start date. -- Ecology and Conservation Program Camp Emerald Bay [email protected] ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 15 Dec 2010 15:01:12 -0500 From: Caryn Self-Sullivan <[email protected]> Subject: Some resources re: Biodiversity The definition below is from one of the NCEP/AMNH synthesis documents, which I use with my students. You can download the module "What is Biodiversity" (and dozens of other teaching conservation biology tools) online at: http://ncep.amnh.org/ Follow the links to Resources then NCEP Modules & Resources. Sometimes the best definitions for use with the public come from this secondary literature, which is written with the student in mind. Species Richness is only one measurement of biodiversity, a term which is a shortened form of biological diversity. The module talks about many ways to measure biodiversity, from population level to global level. I found that that population level biodiversity was a something my seniors didn't have a good perspective on until we did this module. Biodiversity: The variety of life on Earth at all its levels, from genes to ecosystems, and the ecological and evolutionary processes that sustain it. (from "What is Biodiversity." (c) 2006 I.J. Harrison, M. F. Laverty and E.J. Sterling, available in English, French, Spanish, downloaded from http://ncep.amnh.org/ on 9/13/2010. Caryn Self-Sullivan, Ph.D. Email: [email protected] President & Co-Founder, Sirenian International, Inc. 200 Stonewall Drive, Fredericksburg, VA 22401-2110 Mobile: 540.287.8207 | Fax: 888.371.4998 Visiting Assistant Professor Department of Fisheries & Wildlife Sciences College of Natural Resources & Environment Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061-0321 Phone: 540.231.7740 | Email: [email protected] Office: 315B Cheatham Hall Office Hours: T/Th 12:15-1:30 or by appointment Adopt a Mermaid Ambassador or Donate online at www.sirenian.org The mission of Sirenian International is to promote the long-term conservation of manatee and dugong populations and our shared aquatic habitats around the world through research, educational outreach, and capacity building. Please remember us when budgeting for your charitable donations. On Dec 14, 2010, at 8:58 PM, Elizabeth Burnett wrote: > Euan and All, > > I believe the basic definition of "biodiversity" is species richness > or the number of species in a given ecosystem. I personally think of > biodiversity in more complex terms, where there are a variety of > living organisms that inhabit a variety of niches within an ecosystem. > > I believe much of the public does understand this term (it is > somewhat of a self-explanatory nature) but I think the obstacle is > lack of appreciation for biodiversity. I don't believe this > appreciation or connection to biodiversity can be established on an > individual level by a word alone. I think these things are > established through individual interaction with this biodiversity. > If this is true, perhaps we ought not find a new term to convey the > importance of species diversity to the public, but instead think of > new experiences they could participate in that would allow them to > understand and appreciate biodiversity on a deeper level, as we do. > > Even with all the proper education on the workings of ecosystems, > some people will likely not care to preserve/conserve. For many, > they must experience these connections on a deeper, more personal > level. This idea is and has been established in the connections > between people and outdoor recreation as well as people and "nature" > art (painting, writing, etc.). > > > E Burnett > ----- Original Message ----- > From: "Euan Ritchie" <[email protected]> > To: [email protected] > Sent: Monday, December 13, 2010 6:05:31 PM GMT -05:00 US/Canada > Eastern > Subject: [ECOLOG-L] Defining biodiversity, and does the term capture > the public's attention? > > Hi everyone, > > I have just returned from the Ecological Society of Australia > meeting and among other issues, there was much discussion about the > term biodiversity. Many people argue that this term is hard to > define, and importantly, the public have no idea what it actually > means and therefore they have less connection/concern to preserve/ > conserve species and habitats. I thought it would be interesting to > hear how others define biodiversity, and if this term isn't helpful > for conveying the importance of species diversity to the public, > what term(s) should we use? > > Over to you, > > Euan > > > Dr. Euan G. Ritchie, Lecturer in Ecology, School of Life and > Environmental Sciences > Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, 3125, Australia. > Building T, Room T3.09.3 > Phone: 03 9251 7606 International: +61 3 9251 7606 > Mobile: 041 888 2992 > Fax: 03 9251 7626 International: +61 3 9251 7626 > Email: [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]> > Skype: euanritchie > Website: http://www.deakin.edu.au/scitech/les/staff/ritchiee/ > Deakin University CRICOS Provider Code 00113B > > Important Notice: The contents of this email are intended solely for > the named addressee and are confidential; any unauthorised use, > reproduction or storage of the contents is expressly prohibited. If > you have received this email in error, please delete it and any > attachments immediately and advise the sender by return email or > telephone. > Deakin University does not warrant that this email and any > attachments are error or virus free. ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 15 Dec 2010 15:09:29 -0500 From: =?windows-1252?Q?Rebecca_Hays?= <[email protected]> Subject: Internship in Organic and Isotope Geochemistry Internship —Organic and Isotope Geochemistry Field and Laboratory Assistants The Stroud Water Research Center (SWRC) is seeking motivated science majors for Spring 2011 to assist in a wide variety of environmental research projects on the ecology, ecosystem dynamics, biogeochemistry, isotope geochemistry and organic geochemistry of streams and rivers. We typically employ 5-10 interns during the summer, and 1-3 interns during other seasons. The three research groups at the SWRC – led by Drs. Aufdenkampe, Kaplan and Newbold – together study energy flow, nutrient cycling, and organic matter composition and dynamics in stream and river ecosystems. Projects include following the movements of organic carbon and inorganic nitrogen from hillslopes to streams, the deposition and resuspension of organic particles in stream water, measurements of dissolved and particulate organic matter bioavailability, investigating streambed bacterial communities with molecular techniques, and determining the global importance of large rivers, such as the Amazon, as a sink or source of greenhouse gases. More information on research projects can be found at http://www.stroudcenter.org/research/index.htm. Internship tasks include: (1) sample collection and other fieldwork, such as streamflow measurements and operation of data logging equipment, in streams local to the Stroud Center; (2) laboratory analysis of water and sediment samples for a variety of basic chemical properties such as dissolved gas, nutrient and sediment concentrations, carbon and nitrogen content, stable isotope signatures, spectroscopic signatures, and mineral surface area; and (3) assistance to full time staff with sample preparation and analysis of organic contaminants and natural carbohydrate and amino acid compositions. Interns will thus be exposed to a wide variety of modern laboratory instrumentation, including: elemental analysis (EA) – isotope ratios mass spectrometry (IRMS); surface area analysis; Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR); gas chromatography – mass spectrometry (GC-MS), ion chromatography, and high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). Additionally, assistance in implementing a network of environmental sensors to be installed in a study watershed is desired. Qualifications include: positive work ethic and attention to detail, training in basic wet-chemistry, and basic computer skills. Course work in Organic Chemistry is highly desirable. Experience with electronics is a plus. Stipend is a minimum of $350 per week. Starting and ending dates are negotiable. Send cover letter, resume, transcripts (unofficial transcripts acceptable), and names, addresses, telephone numbers of three references to the address below. Email is preferred. Review of spring intership applications begins immediately. Applications for summer positions will be reviewed beginning March 15 until positions are filled. Applicants who wish to be considered for a REU position should indicate their interest and qualifications for independent study. Stephanie A. Dix Geochemist, Level III Stroud Water Research Center 970 Spencer Road Avondale, Pa 19311 [email protected] The Stroud Water Research Center (www.stroudcenter.org) is an independent, non-profit institution devoted to basic and applied research on streams and rivers in North America and beyond. The scientists work in interdisciplinary research teams, blending their individual talents in hydrology, biogeochemistry, microbial ecology, invertebrate biology, and ecosystem modeling to study the physical, chemical, and biological processes of streams, rivers and their watersheds. The Stroud Water Research Center is recognized internationally for its pioneering research accomplishments. ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 15 Dec 2010 14:20:27 -0500 From: Kim Cuddington <[email protected]> Subject: Graduate positions: extinction, invasion, ecosystem engineering Two graduate positions in ecology: University of Waterloo Funding is available for two graduate positions in the areas of extinction, invasion and ecosystem engineering. Position one: Investigation of the role of species modification of the abiotic environment (ecosystem engineering) on population and community dynamics. We are particularly interested in the effects on invasive and endangered species (e.g., Hine’s emerald dragonfly). Position two: Investigation of the effects of variation in the abiotic environment on invasion and extinction risk. In particular, we would like the applicant to address the effects of autocorrelation in environmental signals (e.g. temperature) using a model invertebrate system. Both research questions can be addressed using either purely theoretical or purely experimental techniques. However, the ideal candidates will combine both approaches to produce powerful conclusions regarding these mechanisms and species dynamics. A background in either ecology or mathematics is required. To be considered, candidates must be eligible for admission to the Biology graduate program at University of Waterloo (http://biology.uwaterloo.ca/graduate). Stipend: Candidates receive financial support through a combination of teaching and research stipend for a total of $19686/annum. Travel funds to attend scientific conferences are available. Location: Waterloo, Ontario. Maclean's reputational university rankings for Canadian universities has consistently ranked UW first in the "Most Innovative" and "Leaders of Tomorrow" sections. The city of Waterloo is part of Canada's Technology Triangle, and hosts companies such as Research in Motion, Maplesoft, Google, Sybase, and McAfee, as well as various thinktanks such as the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics, and the Institute for Quantum Computing. It was named Intelligent Community of the Year in 2007. Contact: Dr. Kim Cuddington Department of Biology University of Waterloo Waterloo, Ontario Email: kcuddingATuwaterlooDOT.ca ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 15 Dec 2010 15:00:00 -0500 From: =?ISO-8859-1?Q?John_F_Riebesell?= <[email protected]> Subject: Assistant Professor of Biology/Environmental Science The University of Michigan-Dearborn invites applications for a tenure-track assistant professor position in environmental biology beginning September 2011. Applicants must hold a Ph.D., be committed to teaching, and be able to develop an active research program that will involve undergraduate students and attract external funding. Previous teaching or postdoctoral experience is preferred. Teaching duties will likely include Ecology, Environmental Science, and either Population Genetics and Evolution, or Applied Ecology, or participation in introductory biology. Future development of new courses is also possible. The area of specialization within ecology/evolutionary biology/environmental science is open and should complement existing faculty/departmental strengths. Research space, modest start-up funding, and teaching released time are available. Submit a letter of application, curriculum vitae, a statement of teaching philosophy, a description of research plans, and the names of three references to: Environmental Biology Faculty Search, Department of Natural Sciences, University of Michigan-Dearborn, 4901 Evergreen Rd., Dearborn, MI 48128. Review of applications will begin January 10, 2011. The University of Michigan-Dearborn is a non-discriminatory, affirmative action employer. ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 15 Dec 2010 16:16:21 -0500 From: Mimi Tzeng <[email protected]> Subject: Re: ECOLOG-L Digest - 13 Dec 2010 to 14 Dec 2010 (#2010-341) Funnily enough, I was recently faced with exactly that problem - though on a very small-scale, non-Nobel Prize winning level. The task was to write a brief intro for an online article directory about Biodiversity, aimed at the general web-browsing public. I came up with: "Biodiversity can refer to genetic diversity within a species, species diversity within an ecosystem, ecosystem diversity within a region, or all three of them taken together. In each case, it's a combination measure of the total number of genes, species, or ecosystems (called "richness") and their abundances relative to each other. For example, an ecosystem where one species comprises 99% of the total number of individuals isn't very diverse, even if there are hundreds of other species in the other 1%. Likewise, high genetic diversity within a species is crucial to how well it can adapt to changing environmental conditions - and its survival in the long term. Biodiversity has become an increasingly important part of policy planning for issues in resource and environmental conservation. The loss of biodiversity has an impact in other areas, like medicine and bioinformatics. Learn more about all aspects of biodiversity with the articles below." I'm open to suggestions on how to improve this if anyone has any. The live version is at http://www.brighthub.com/guides/biodiversity.aspx. Bright Hub is one of the few content sites with basic science articles; the article topics are based on what people actually search about (as opposed to what people probably ought to be searching about). Regards, Mimi Tzeng ----- Original Message ----- > From: "Ritchie, Euan" <[email protected]> > To: <[email protected]> > Sent: segunda-feira, 13 de Dezembro de 2010 23:05 > Subject: [ECOLOG-L] Defining biodiversity, and does the term capture the > public's attention? > > > Hi everyone, > > I have just returned from the Ecological Society of Australia meeting and > among other issues, there was much discussion about the term biodiversity. > Many people argue that this term is hard to define, and importantly, the > public have no idea what it actually means and therefore they have less > connection/concern to preserve/conserve species and habitats. I thought it > would be interesting to hear how others define biodiversity, and if this > term isn't helpful for conveying the importance of species diversity to the > public, what term(s) should we use? > > Over to you, > > Euan > > ------------------------------ Date: Thu, 16 Dec 2010 00:35:51 +0000 From: Anthony Waldron <[email protected]> Subject: conference announcement: biodiversity-friendly cacao certification Fundacion Maquipucuna cordially extends to all an invitation to the first i= nternational conference on the certification of biodiversity-friendly cacao= . Presentations by Robert Rice=2CCelia Harvey=2C Tom Dietsch=2C Eduardo Som= arriba=2C Teja Tscharntke=2C Deborah Faria and many others will focus on th= e conservation of biodiversity via shade-grown cacao=2C the trade-off betwe= en biodiversity protection and farmer livelihoods=2C all to the end of crea= ting a market certification for biodiversity-friendly cacao. Our aim is tha= t the certification conserve biodiversity=2C but in a way that takes into a= ccount the needs of economically poor cacao smallholders and also of the de= mand side. If you are interested in presenting or attending=2C please conta= ct [email protected] as soon as possible. The conference runs from 15= - 17 January 2011 in Quito=2C Ecuador=2C and is free. There is also a bird= ing side trip from 17 to 20 January=2C visiting the cloudforest reserve of = Maquipucuna=2C the Tigrillo reserve in the Ecuadorean Choco=2C and sites at= various altitudes along the way=2C and costs about $350 depending on numbe= rs. Anthony Waldron=2C Director of Conservation=2C Fundacion Maquipucuna > Date: Wed=2C 15 Dec 2010 11:22:52 -0800 > From: [email protected] > Subject: [ECOLOG-L] ESA Agroecology Section Website > To: [email protected] >=20 > Dear ECOLOG subscribers=2C > =20 > I wanted to let those of you who are interested in sustainable agricultur= e and=20 > agroecology (but are not yet members of the ESA Agroecology Section) know= that=20 > our new Agroecology Section website is now up and running. Please take a= few=20 > moments to check it out. =20 >=20 > =20 > http://www.esa.org/agroecology/index.html > =20 > The site will be updated on a regular basis and new content pertaining to= =20 > agroecology science and practice will be added frequently=97so check it o= ften. =20 > You=92ll also notice that you have the ability to interact with the site = through=20 > Facebook and twitter=2C and we hope that you will take the opportunity to= do so. =20 >=20 > =20 > If you are interested in sustainable agriculture and agroecology=2C pleas= e=20 > consider joining ESA's Agroecology Section when you initiate or renew you= r ESA=20 > membership (there's a link on the website). > =20 > Many thanks to our Secretary/Treasurer/Web-master=2C John Quinn=2C for hi= s tireless=20 > efforts to put the site together. > =20 > Sincerely=2C > =20 > Rich Smith=2C Chair=20 > (on behalf of the Agroecology Section Officers) > -------------------------------------------------------------- > Richard G. Smith > Assistant Professor of Agroecology > Department of Natural Resources and the Environment > 264 James Hall > University of New Hampshire > Durham=2C NH 03824 > Email: [email protected] > (603) 862-2724 Office > (603) 953-3396 Cell > http://nre.unh.edu/faculty/smith > ----------------------------------------------------------------=20 >=20 >=20 > =20 = ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 15 Dec 2010 16:58:00 -0800 From: Wayne Tyson <[email protected]> Subject: Biodiversity definition CONCEPT Challenge See also definition of biodiversity Re: [ECOLOG-L] ECOLOG-L Digest - 13 Dec 2010 to 14 Dec 2010 (#2010-341) Ecology Biodiversity Laws 101215 Ecology is such a squishy, fuzzy, fractal, chaotic phenomenon, it's no wonder definitions of terms are such a challenge. Defining, pinning down, measuring something that is infinitely complex and continuously changing may be impossible, even irrelevant. If true, that would mean a fundamental paradigm shift away from conventional practice. Consciously or unconsciously, ecologists and others who ponder the wonder of life seem to variously try to conventionally measure, then intuit, relate, and re-check, only to find an infinity of not-quite-fits, and measure again in a cycle that is simultaneously revealing, frustrating, close, and far, in a never-ending quest for some Holy Grail of certainty when contentment may lie in an acceptance of small glimpses of "this wonder of life." Trying to hammer this genie into a bottle in the image of our self-conception may be useful up to a point (it is quite a challenge to avoid trying to put such phenomena into terms we already know, and a fearsome prospect to open our hearts and minds to a kind of osmosis wherein we assume a more passive than aggressive posture and "let it happen") where the phenomena we glimpse "write" the rules and we are mere stenographers. Critical thinking is all very well, but when it comes to being critical about our own thinking-well, that sort of thing just isn't usually done, is it? We are uncomfortable with the idea that the error might lie in the certainty of our views (definitions, methods, yes, even numerical "discipline" . . . ) rather than in challenges to them. Yet the history of scientific advance is written, not about the certainty of paradigms, but of the heretical challenges that, at long last, finally break through. We are, after all, a social species, and conformity to groupthink is historically tied closely to the very survival that enabled us to entertain the luxury of contemplation of something besides our next meal-or mega-fortune. As an example of such an heretical challenge, we might look at the concept of biodiversity and the conclusions that are derived from it. Biodiversity, for example, might be a valid concept based on an intuitive hunch, and like all hunches in history, the concept must stand up to continuous testing; the problem comes in when we stop the testing. An assemblage of species that is, say, largely (99 percent or some other large number) composed of one species (or of low genetic diversity) with a large number of species (or of high genetic diversity) might be as resilient as its environment makes possible. Historically, the earth of, say, 3.7 billion years BCE might have been an approximation of that hypothetical. Given the literal hell's fire and brimstone that life apparently has had to endure to reach its present level of complexity, one might be able to conclude that such "low diversity" might have possessed an as yet not understood kind of flexibility not dependent upon diversity. I dunno . . . what say y'all? WT ----- Original Message ----- From: "Mimi Tzeng" <[email protected]> To: <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, December 15, 2010 1:16 PM Subject: Re: [ECOLOG-L] ECOLOG-L Digest - 13 Dec 2010 to 14 Dec 2010 (#2010-341) > Funnily enough, I was recently faced with exactly that problem - though on > a > very small-scale, non-Nobel Prize winning level. The task was to write a > brief intro for an online article directory about Biodiversity, aimed at > the > general web-browsing public. I came up with: > > "Biodiversity can refer to genetic diversity within a species, species > diversity within an ecosystem, ecosystem diversity within a region, or all > three of them taken together. In each case, it's a combination measure of > the total number of genes, species, or ecosystems (called "richness") and > their abundances relative to each other. > > For example, an ecosystem where one species comprises 99% of the total > number of individuals isn't very diverse, even if there are hundreds of > other species in the other 1%. Likewise, high genetic diversity within a > species is crucial to how well it can adapt to changing environmental > conditions - and its survival in the long term. > > Biodiversity has become an increasingly important part of policy planning > for issues in resource and environmental conservation. The loss of > biodiversity has an impact in other areas, like medicine and > bioinformatics. > Learn more about all aspects of biodiversity with the articles below." > > I'm open to suggestions on how to improve this if anyone has any. The live > version is at http://www.brighthub.com/guides/biodiversity.aspx. Bright > Hub > is one of the few content sites with basic science articles; the article > topics are based on what people actually search about (as opposed to what > people probably ought to be searching about). > > Regards, > Mimi Tzeng > > > ----- Original Message ----- >> From: "Ritchie, Euan" <[email protected]> >> To: <[email protected]> >> Sent: segunda-feira, 13 de Dezembro de 2010 23:05 >> Subject: [ECOLOG-L] Defining biodiversity, and does the term capture the >> public's attention? >> >> >> Hi everyone, >> >> I have just returned from the Ecological Society of Australia meeting and >> among other issues, there was much discussion about the term >> biodiversity. >> Many people argue that this term is hard to define, and importantly, the >> public have no idea what it actually means and therefore they have less >> connection/concern to preserve/conserve species and habitats. I thought >> it >> would be interesting to hear how others define biodiversity, and if this >> term isn't helpful for conveying the importance of species diversity to >> the >> public, what term(s) should we use? >> >> Over to you, >> >> Euan >> >> -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 8.5.449 / Virus Database: 271.1.1/3317 - Release Date: 12/15/10 07:34:00 ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 15 Dec 2010 17:23:40 -0800 From: Wayne Tyson <[email protected]> Subject: Re: ESA Agroecology Section Website Ecolog:=20 It seems that this is a kickoff for this organization/website, but the = "mission statement" seems vague and the "long-range plan" and by-laws = non-existent (404 Error). Maybe they can/will be posted or a notice = posted when they are available on the website.=20 Perhaps Ecolog members would care to offer some breadth of understanding = on this subject?=20 The mission statement reads:=20 "Mission Statement, Officers, Documents, Important Past Events=20 "About "Updated November 2010 "The Agroecology Section will promote an understanding of the importance = of the application of ecological concepts and principles to the design = and management of sustainable Agroecosystems among ecologists, = agriculturists, and members of related disciplines. Other objectives = include encouraging education and research in Agroecology, sponsoring = meetings and publications for the communication of research and = educational activities in Agroecology, and increasing student = participation in the Society. "Our goal is to promote holistic research that works within the local = ecosystem to sustain the environmental and economic viability of a = community through the promotion of natural farming systems." I would like to have my understanding promoted from its present ignorant = state to a more enlightened one. Specifically, I would like to know = whether or not, "when push comes to shove" that self-sufficient = ecosystems will be winners or losers when it comes to the economic = viability of a community. Perhaps you could provide an example of an = agroecological case compared with one which is not that we could see and = feel each of them, preferably in different parts of the USA/World to = limit the travel and carbon expenditures to reach the sites? By what = standards are such cases determined?=20 What is the definition of a "natural farming system?"=20 WT ----- Original Message -----=20 From: "Rich Smith" <[email protected]> To: <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, December 15, 2010 11:22 AM Subject: [ECOLOG-L] ESA Agroecology Section Website Dear ECOLOG subscribers, I wanted to let those of you who are interested in sustainable = agriculture and=20 agroecology (but are not yet members of the ESA Agroecology Section) = know that=20 our new Agroecology Section website is now up and running. Please take a = few=20 moments to check it out.=20 http://www.esa.org/agroecology/index.html The site will be updated on a regular basis and new content pertaining = to=20 agroecology science and practice will be added frequently=E2=80=94so = check it often.=20 You=E2=80=99ll also notice that you have the ability to interact with = the site through=20 Facebook and twitter, and we hope that you will take the opportunity to = do so.=20 If you are interested in sustainable agriculture and agroecology, please = consider joining ESA's Agroecology Section when you initiate or renew = your ESA=20 membership (there's a link on the website). Many thanks to our Secretary/Treasurer/Web-master, John Quinn, for his = tireless=20 efforts to put the site together. Sincerely, Rich Smith, Chair=20 (on behalf of the Agroecology Section Officers) -------------------------------------------------------------- Richard G. Smith Assistant Professor of Agroecology Department of Natural Resources and the Environment 264 James Hall University of New Hampshire Durham, NH 03824 Email: [email protected] (603) 862-2724 Office (603) 953-3396 Cell http://nre.unh.edu/faculty/smith ----------------------------------------------------------------=20 -------------------------------------------------------------------------= ------- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com=20 Version: 8.5.449 / Virus Database: 271.1.1/3317 - Release Date: 12/15/10 = 07:34:00 ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 15 Dec 2010 08:25:15 -0800 From: This Rutishauser <[email protected]> Subject: Call for Papers: Seasons and phenology: Evidence from observations, reconstructions, measurements and models at EGU (Austria) Dear colleagues: The EGU General Assembly 2011 is being held April 3-8, Vienna (<http://meetings.copernicus.org/egu2011/home.html>) and abstract submission is now open. Please consider submitting an abstract to session CL2.13 Seasons and phenology: Evidence from observations, reconstructions, measurements and models (co-sponsored by USA-NPN, PAGES & ILEAPS) Link: <http://meetingorganizer.copernicus.org/EGU2011/session/6424>. The description of the session is attached below. We would appreciate if you could also bring this session to the attention of researchers and students who are likely to be interested in this topic. You may submit an abstract at <http://meetings.copernicus.org/egu2011/abstract_management/how_to_submit_an_abstract.html>. While there is an abstract processing charge of EUR 40 per abstract, please note that the registration fees will be reduced to take into account the abstract fee. The deadline for submission of abstracts is fast approaching--- MONDAY 10th JANUARY 2011. Looking forward to seeing you in Vienna! This Rutishauser ([email protected]), Annette Menzel (TU München, Germany, [email protected]), Jake Weltzin (USA National Phenology Network,[email protected]), Alison Donnelly (Trinity College Dublin, Ireland, [email protected]) Session abstract: Observations of plant and animal phenological records, remote sensing observations and the timing of snow and ice cover from all continents and several oceans show that many physical and biological natural systems are changing their seasonal timing, particularly due to increases in temperature. We invite contributions with cross-disciplinary perspectives that present seasonality changes based on recent plant and animal phenological observations, historical documentary sources, or seasonality measurements using climate data, remote sensing, flux measurements or modelling studies. We seek contributions across all spatial and temporal scales that compare and integrate seasonality changes, emphasize applications, discuss species interactions and decoupling and that advance our understanding of seasonality response to long-term climate change and single extreme events. *************************************************** This Rutishauser University of Bern, Institute of Geography Research Groups in Climatology & Meteorology (Klimet) and Phenology & Topoclimatology (Phenotop) Hallerstrasse 12, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland Phone: +41 (0)31 631'88'83, Fax: +41 (0)31 631'85'11 [email protected], http://www.geography.unibe.ch/ Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Unitat d’Ecofisiologia CSIC-CREAF CREAF (Center for Ecological Research and Forestry Applications) [email protected], http://www.creaf.uab.es/ http://www.giub.unibe.ch/~rutis/ ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 15 Dec 2010 18:39:20 -0500 From: =?ISO-8859-1?Q?Diane_Pataki?= <[email protected]> Subject: program coordinator position at the University of California, Irvine The Center for Environmental Biology (CEB) at the University of California, Irvine seeks a Program Coordinator to facilitate research programs focused on sustainable management of California ecosystems, and to conduct original research in partnership with local land managers. The position involves opportunities to collaborate with several faculty at UC Irvine, and with managers of public lands in southern California interested in applied research in ecology and sustainable management. The position will be approximately 50% coordination and data synthesis and 50% research-oriented. The ideal candidate will have research interests pertaining to ecosystem services, as well as the ability to interact with a diverse group of stakeholders interested in the future of California’s biological resources. Applicants should have a Ph.D. in environmental biology, conservation biology, environmental science, ecology, or a related field. Appointments will be made at the post-doctoral or project scientist level depending on experience. Candidates should send a cover letter explaining their interests and experience along with a c.v. and the names of three references to Diane Pataki, [email protected]. More information about CEB can be found at http://www.uciceb.com. Applications will be reviewed beginning Jan. 15, 2011, and the position will remain open until filled. ------------------------------ End of ECOLOG-L Digest - 14 Dec 2010 to 15 Dec 2010 (#2010-342) ***************************************************************
