[ECOLOG-L] Graduate student opportunity in prairie ecology/restoration in Nebraska
I am looking for a MS or Ph D student interested in vegetation dynamics in prairie remnants and prairie restorations. The Nature Conservancy has restored 1,500 acres of grassland and manages 2,000 acres of remnant prairies and uses prescribed fire and grazing to increase habitat quality around Grand Island, Nebraska. However, it is increasingly clear that environmental factors such as soil composition and fertility, drought susceptibility, site history and species pools significant influence the vegetation composition. For instance, observationally, we see that remnant prairies are often dominated by invasive grasses and are low in forb diversity. Even when subjected to years of management to suppress invasive grasses and repeated over-seeding attempts, forb diversity fails to increase. Conversely, cropland restorations planted with 150-230 species successfully establish diverse plant communities. However, these restorations are threatened by the same invasive grass species and we see large variation among sites. There seems to be environmental variability, presently unaccounted for, that is hindering successful efforts to rehabilitate remnant prairies and restored prairies. A student working on this project would examine remnants and restored prairies to determine how management (including fire and grazing), site history and site environmental factors correlate with vegetation composition, diversity, and the abundance of at-risk and invasive species. Our goal is to gain a better understanding of the factors that control diversity, and develop control and management strategies that increase diversity, decrease the prevalence of invasive species, and increase the abundance of at-risk species. For this permanently marked plots will be set up and an annual monitoring program will be started. Longer term we want to examine temporal vegetation changes in relation to climate and succession and determine the trajectory of vegetation changes within these permanent plots and develop experiment to test what environmental factors drive these patterns. This project will start in May 2010 and the permanent plot setup and the initiation of the monitoring program are funded by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. If you are interested in this project please contact me. Johannes (Jean) M H Knops School of Biological Sciences University of Nebraska 348 Manter Hall Lincoln, NE 68588 Phone (402) 310 3904 Email: jkno...@unl.edu
[ECOLOG-L] US Fish and Wildlife Service opening - endangered species and white-nose syndrome - do not reply to poster
The Bloomington, Indiana Field Office of the US Fish and Wildlife Service is hiring a full-time, permanent biologist. The person will focus on endangered species issues and WNS initially. It is a full performance GS-12 position (requires a doctorate for full-performance level, but those with master's degrees can also apply and work their way up to a GS-12 through job experience). Please let any and all you know who might be interested and have them give me a call if they would like to learn more. The announcement(s) are posted on USAJOBS or you can click on these links. The posting for GS-9 (2nd link below) should be used by those with a master's. http://jobview.usajobs.gov/GetJob.aspx?JobID=84757231JobTitle=Fish+and+Wildlife+Biologistcn=rad_units=milesbrd=3876pp=50jbf522=0401vw=dre=0FedEmp=YFedPub=Ycaller=series.aspxpg=1q=R3-09-301615-DDAVSDM=2009-11-30+00%3a03%3a00 http://jobview.usajobs.gov/GetJob.aspx?JobID=84678712JobTitle=Fish+and+Wildlife+Biologistjbf574=IN*FedEmp=NFedPub=Yvw=dre=0caller=basic.aspxpg=1cnme=bloomington%2cinrad=20rad_units=milesrfn=1AVSDM=2009-11-30+00%3a03%3a00 Thank you, Scott Pruitt Field Supervisor U.S. Fish Wildlife Service Bloomington Field Office 620 South Walker Bloomington, IN 47403 (812) 334-4261 ext. 214 (812) 334-4273 FAX scott_pru...@fws.govmailto:scott_pru...@fws.gov
[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Assistantship Forest Soil Ecology Univ. of Florida
A graduate research assistantship (Masters Level) is available in forest soil ecology at the University of Florida. The projects focus is on belowground carbon (C) allocation in loblolly pine, and how variation in C cycling affects soil C cycling. The student will be using a radiocarbon isotopic method, and other techniques, to partition soil CO2 efflux to determine how belowground allocation responds to family level genetic selection and different levels of fertilization. The student will be co-advised by Drs. Eric Jokela and Edward Schuur. Overview: Bi-monthly field visits will be required to sample for soil CO2 efflux, and thrice yearly visits to estimate the radiocarbon signatures of soil CO2 efflux. Radiocarbon estimates of root and microbial respiration will be made two times over the course of the project. The student will also assist in the collection of aboveground productivity and litterfall estimates, and the installation of root exclusions. The student will be responsible for analyzing data, preparing technical reports, presenting results at national conferences, and developing at least one peer-reviewed publication. Students with a background in forestry, soil science, biology, botany, or environmental science with strong analytical skills are encouraged to apply. Two years of funding (stipend, tuition waver and health insurance) are available for this position with at least one semester of student teaching Starting Date: May 2010 (Application Deadline: April 1, 2010). The student will be part of two larger research groups: The Forest Biology Research Cooperative and the Ecosystem Dynamics Lab at the University of Florida. As a result, she/he will interact closely with colleagues having a wide range of research interests, including forest genetics, silviculture, and boreal and arctic ecology. The University of Florida is located in the north central Florida, within a 2-hour drive of either the Atlantic coast or Gulf of Mexico. The University of Florida has nearly 50,000 students, and as a result, it boasts a diverse set of cultural, intellectual, and recreational opportunities. Application: Please send 1) transcripts and GRE scores (unofficial copies OK for initial inquiry), 2) curriculum vitae, 3) contact information for 3 references, and 4) letter of application which (i) describes your interest in the position, (ii) describes your career goals, and (iii) details your work or educational experience that is most relevant to this position. For more information contact: Dr. Eric Jokela 353 Newins-Ziegler Hall P.O. Box 110410 University of Florida Gainesville, FL 32611-0410 Phone: (352) 846-0890 e-mail: ejok...@ufl.edu
[ECOLOG-L] Research opportunities at Huron Mountains in northern Michigan
The Huron Mountain Wildlife Foundation supports research focused on the landscape and ecosystems of the Lake Superior basin, particularly the Huron Mountains area of northern Michigan. The Foundation operates the Ives Lake Field Station north of Big Bay, MI, providing housing and facilities for approved research projects. The Foundation also offers small research grants, with particular priority given to 'seed' projects that might lead to successful proposals to major funding agencies. HMWF provides exclusive access to a large (ca 10,000 ha), diverse, and well-protected natural area in the Huron Mountains, with extensive old-growth forests and pristine aquatic systems. HMWF is interested in both hypothesis-driven research and ecological monitoring, and proposals for long-term research are welcome. The Foundation also supports taxonomic documentation in connection with an all-taxa biodiversity inventory of the Huron Mts. (taxa of particular interest include arachnids and lepidopterans). More details and guidelines for research proposals may be found at the Foundation's website, www. hmwf.org, under the 'for researchers' link. Proposals for the 2010 field season should be submitted by 1 Feb if funding is requested. Address inquiries to Kerry Woods, Director of Research, at kwo...@bennington.edu -- Kerry D. Woods Bennington College, Natural Sciences Dir. of Research, Huron Mt. Wildlife Found. www.hmwf.org faculty.bennington.edu/~kwoods kwo...@bennington.edu
[ECOLOG-L] Graduate Research Assistantship
PhD Assistantship in Ecology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523. Influence of Climate Change on the Water and Carbon Budgets and Vegetation of Rocky Mountain Peatlands. A graduate research assistantship is available to analyze the short and long-term influences of climate change on fens in the Rocky Mountains of the U.S. We will analyze hydrologic, carbon and nutrient dynamics in fens located in areas with different precipitation regimes (San Juan Mountains, Colorado and Medicine Bow Mountains, Wyoming) and at different elevations. The student will conduct detailed hydrologic analysis of well and piezometer nests, carbon gas fluxes, plant production and decomposition dynamics, as well as long-term history of peat accumulation and vegetation composition. This project is a collaborative effort between Colorado State University (CSU) and the USDA Forest Service Rocky Mountain Research Station. The student will be enrolled in the Graduate Degree Program in Ecology at CSU, and housed in the Department of Forest, Rangeland and Watershed Stewardship. Applicants must possess a Masters degree in a suitable scientific field (hydrology, wetland ecology, or plant ecology), be physically capable of working in wilderness setting at high elevation sites (up to 3500 m elevation), and performing demanding work. Student will be provided with a monthly stipend, and tuition and field expenses are provided. Send letter of interest, CV and list of references to Dr. David J. Cooper at: david.coo...@colostate.edu
[ECOLOG-L] Fw: Alaska Invasive Plant SCA Internships for summer 2010
Please pass the word on to any interested students! If they have questions have them contact Bonnie Million, bonnie_mill...@nps.gov. - Forwarded by Miranda Terwilliger/WRST/NPS on 12/03/2009 12:23 PM - Bonnie Million/AKSO/NP S 12/03/2009 08:03 AM Morning all - Just a heads up that the Alaska Exotic Plant Management Team has a TON of SCA internship posted right now at the following website: http://www.thesca.org/serve/internships/browse?keys=invasive+plant+management+alaska So, if you know anyone who maybe interested I will be forever in your debt if you pass on the info - please feel free to pass on my contact info as well. I really appreciate your help!! Bonnie M. Million Alaska EPMT Liaison Alaska Regional Office 240 West 5th Avenue Anchorage, AK 99501 Office: 907-644-3452 Fax: 907-644-3809 bonnie_mill...@nps.gov
[ECOLOG-L] MS graduate student opportunities in aquatic ecology/limnology
We are looking for two MS students interested in aquatic ecology or limnology through our Water Science Masters program. Both are paid research assistantships and would be through Murray State University's Hancock Biological Station on Kentucky Lake. Students would have the option of residing at the Biological Station, about 15 miles from the main campus. Both students would assist with deployment of lake environmental sensors and bi-weekly monitoring cruises through an NSF-funded cyberinfrastructure grant. Specific thesis research areas would be based on each student's interests and the Station's ongoing research programs. These might include but are not limited to analysis of sensor data, zooplankton ecology and invasive species, lake algae, zebra mussels and native mussel species, the effects of water level fluctuations, and lake benthos dynamics. In the later case, the benthos of Kentucky Lake is quickly disappearing but the reasons for it remain unclear. For more information on the Station, go to http://www.murraystate.edu/hbswww.murraystate.edu/hbs If you are interested in these projects, please contact me. David S. White Professor, Biological Sciences www.murraystate.edu/qacd/cos/bio/bio_inf.htm Director, Hancock Biological Station www.murraystate.edu/hbs Commonwealth Endowed Chair www.murraystate.edu/qacd/cos/sci/colofsci.htm Editor, Journal Kentucky Academy of Science www.kyscience.org 561 Emma Drive Murray, KY 42071 Phone: 270-474-2272 FAX: 270-474-0120 Cell: 270-293-9141
[ECOLOG-L] radio transmitters for sale
FOR SALETen glue-on radio transmitters, model A2426 by Advanced Telemetry Systems. Specs: 0.6g mass, 5 inch antenna, 40 ppm, 148-152 mHZ frequency range, 21 day battery life. Useful for birds 20g and up. Custom manufactured August 2009 for $140 ea. For sale for $40 ea. Contact C. SEEWAGEN (PH: 917-532-1303).
[ECOLOG-L] 2010 ornithology programs at Hog Island Audubon Center
You can sign upnow!for summer 2010 ornithology programs at http://engage.maineaudubon.org/site/R?i=x4QITo-87i3854cNbHGIaw..Hog Island Audubon Center. As you know, a committee of Audubon and Maine Audubon staff has worked with expert consultants for nearly a year, envisioning options for the island consistent with its celebrated environmental education history and potential. The work continues, and while it does, the two organizations have agreed to re-establish programming in 2010. Audubons internationally recognized Project Puffin Seabird Restoration Program will lead five distinct sessions of bird-loving bliss, working with a team of dynamic instructors, including Kenn Kaufman and Pete Dunne: * Maine Seabird Biology and Conservation (May 30-June 4) * Field Ornithology I (June 13-18) * Field Ornithology II (June 20-25) * Maine Coast Birding Studies for Teens (June 20-25) * Maine Seabird Biology and Conservation (September 12-17) Get more information and download registration forms at: http://engage.maineaudubon.org/site/R?i=iaB5bTwdaJmsrr4EMK77FQ..www.projectpuffin.org. Or e-mail mailto:projectpuf...@audubon.orgprojectpuf...@audubon.org. We hope that, like us, you see this as good news, and will spread the word. These are the only programs the historic center will offer in 2010, and space is limited. As our committee continues its work, we want you to know that we share with Hog Islands loyal alumni, past instructors, and supporters the desire for long-term arrangements that will continue Hog Islands historic service to conservation. Toward that goal, we hope you will help us fill our 2010 sessions with enthusiastic participants. Thank you for your continuing support. Sincerely, Ted Koffman, Excecutive Director, Maine Audubon
[ECOLOG-L] Open letter to the climate science community (from Ben Santer)
From: Ben Santer santhttp://groups.google.com/groups/unlock?_done=/group/geoengineering/browse_thread/thread/d3aec95a5f27fbb6msg=8aab47682ab84454@llnl.gov Date: Wed, Dec 2, 2009 at 4:58 PM Subject: Open letter to the climate science community Dear colleagues and friends, I am sure that by now, all of you are aware of the hacking incident which recently took place at the University of East Anglia's Climatic Research Unit (CRU). This was a criminal act. Over 3,000 emails and documents were stolen. The identity of the hacker or hackers is still unknown. The emails represented private correspondence between CRU scientists and scientists at climate research centers around the world. Dozens of the stolen emails are from over a decade of my own personal correspondence with Professor Phil Jones, the Director of CRU. I obtained my Ph.D. at the Climatic Research Unit. I went to CRU in 1983 because it was - and remains - one of the world's premier institutions for studying the nature and causes of climate change. During the course of my Ph.D., I was privileged to work together with exceptional scientists - with people like Tom Wigley, Phil Jones, Keith Briffa, and Sarah Raper. After completing my Ph.D. at CRU in 1987, I devoted much of my scientific career to what is now called climate fingerprinting, which seeks to understand the causes of recent climate change. At its core, fingerprinting is a form of what people now call data mining - an attempt to extract information and meaning from very large, complex climate datasets. The emails stolen from the Climatic Research Unit are now being subjected to a very different form of data mining. This mining is taking place in the blogosphere, in the editorial pages of various newspapers, and in radio and television programs. This form of mining has little to do with extracting meaning from personal email correspondence on complex scientific issues. This form of mining seeks to find dirt - to skew true meaning, to distort, to misrepresent, to take out of context. It seeks to destroy the reputations of exceptional scientists - scientists like Professor Phil Jones. I have known Phil for over 25 years. He is the antithesis of the secretive, data destroying character being portrayed to the outside world by the miners of dirt and disinformation. Phil Jones and Tom Wigley (the second Director of the Climatic Research Unit) devoted significant portions of their scientific careers to the construction of the land component of the so-called HadCRUT dataset of land and ocean surface temperatures. The U.K. Meteorological Office Hadley Centre (MOHC) took the lead in developing the ocean surface temperature component of HadCRUT. The CRU and Hadley Centre efforts to construct the HadCRUT dataset have been open and transparent, and are documented in dozens of peer-reviewed scientific papers. This work has been tremendously influential. In my personal opinion, it is some of the most important scientific research ever published. It has provided hard scientific evidence for the warming of our planet over the past 150 years. Phil, Tom, and their CRU and MOHC colleagues conducted this research in a very open and transparent manner. Like good scientists, they examined the sensitivity of their results to many different subjective choices made during the construction of the HadCRUT dataset. These choices relate to such issues as how to account for changes over time in the type of thermometer used to make temperature measurements, the thermometer location, and the immediate physical surroundings of the thermometer. They found that, no matter what choices they made in dataset construction, their bottom-line finding - that the surface of our planet is warming - was rock solid. This finding was supported by many other independent lines of evidence, such as the retreat of snow and sea-ice cover, the widespread melting and retreat of glaciers, the rise in sea-level, and the increase in the amount of water vapor in the atmosphere. All of these independent observations are physically consistent with a warming planet. Extraordinary claims demand extraordinary proof. The claim that our Earth had warmed markedly during the 20th century was extraordinary, and was subjected to extraordinary scrutiny. Groups at the National Climatic Data Center in North Carolina (NCDC) and at the Goddard Institute for Space Studies in New York (GISS) independently attempted to reproduce the results of the Climatic Research Unit and the U.K. Meteorological Office Hadley Centre. While the NCDC and GISS groups largely relied on the same primary temperature measurements that had been used in the development of the HadCRUT dataset, they made very different choices in the treatment of the raw measurements. Although there were differences in the details of the three groups' results, the NCDC and GISS analyses broadly confirmed the warming Earth findings of the CRU and MOHC scientists. Other extraordinary claims - such
