[ECOLOG-L] Postdoctoral position, From Photons to Fish: Drivers of Fish Productivity in Canadian Freshwater Ecosystems
Since its inception in 1968, the Experimental Lakes Area (ELA) has been the site for over 50 whole-ecosystem experiments to investigate the effects of anthropogenic activities to aquatic ecosystems including: flooding, drawdown, water diversion, eutrophication, acidification, atmospheric mercury deposition, and aquaculture. As part of these whole ecosystem experiments, extensive data have been collected for up to 43 years on fish populations, hydrology, water chemistry, food web structure, primary production, zooplankton abundance, meteorology, and many other factors.The breadth and completeness of these datasets represent a truly unique opportunity to examine linkages between fish productivity and the underlying food web. We are seeking a highly-motivated individual to examine relationships between fish production, primary production, secondary production, and physical and chemical variables in these boreal lake ecosystems.The successful candidate will use the ELA long-term datasets to quantify the drivers of variation in fish productivity. Given the experimental treatments imposed on ELA lakes, there are very good opportunities to evaluate the effects of ecological stressors both in isolation and in combination with potential background stress (e.g., climatic variability). Start date for the position is September 2013, but depending on the timing of release of funds and identification and availability of an appropriate candidate, could begin earlier. This is a 2–year position that will be based at the Freshwater Institute (Department of Fisheries and Oceans) in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and is funded through NSERC’s Visiting Fellowship program. Candidates must have completed (or will soon complete) a PhD, with experience in fish biology/ecology and/or limnology with a strong quantitative skills in statistical and/or modelling approaches to addressing ecological questions. Knowledge of mark-recapture methods (e.g., program MARK) and familiarity with databases (e.g., MS Access) are significant assets for the position.In order to be considered, potential candidates must be eligible for, and submit an application to, the NSERC visiting fellowship program (http://www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/Students-Etudiants/PD-NP/Laboratories-Laboratoires/index_eng.asp).Interested individuals should also send a cover letter, up-to-date CV, 3 representative publications and contact information for three references to: Michael Rennie Research Scientist, Fisheries and Oceans Canada 501 University Crescent Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N6 CANADA michael.ren...@dfo-mpo.gc.ca
[ECOLOG-L] water velocity meters
Hi, I'd be happy to hear ideas and recommendations for water velocity meters. We want to measure velocity differences in small microhabitats. Thanks in advance, Leon Leon Blaustein Director, Kadas Green Roofs Ecology Center Head, Community Ecology Laboratory Institute of Evolution and Department of Evolutionary Environmental Biology Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa 31905 Israel Tel. 972-4-8240736 (office); 972-4-9998881 (home) Cell: 054-268-8290; Institute Fax: 972-4-8246554 http://leonblaustein.wikidot.com http://evolution.haifa.ac.il/index.php/research/research-centers/kadas-green-roofs-ecology Chief Editor, Israel Journal of Ecology and Evolution http://israelsciencejournals.com/eco.htm e-mail: ijee...@research.haifa.ac.il He [Rabin] knew that those who starve peace, feed extremism. -Shimon Peres speaking at Rabin commemoration 7 Nov 09
[ECOLOG-L] Conference: Cardiff, Omics, Sept9-11
Announcement: 1st international Environmental Omics Synthesis conference Cardiff University, UK, 9-11th Sept. 2013 See: http://www.environmentalomics.org/ieos2013 As part of the NERC - Mathematics and Informatics for Environmental 'Omics Data Synthesis directed programme, we are pleased to announce the first in a series of annual conferences. This year the session topics will be - Learning from the past to inform the future - Ecological 'Omics: from workflows to adaptation - Epigenetics - Evolutionary 'Omics: models and applications - Integrated and Systems 'Omics - Community ecology: from metagenomics to function and synthetic biology Keynote speakers: - Prof. Eske Willerslev, Centre for GeoGenetics, Natural History Museum of Denmark - Prof. John Colbourne, Chair of Environmental Genomics, University of Birmingham - Prof. Jack Gilbert, Earth Microbiome Project, University of Chicago Registration open! Abstract submission open! on behalf of Peter Kille and the iEOS organising committee. -- Daniel Barker http://biology.st-andrews.ac.uk/staff/db60 The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland : No SC013532
[ECOLOG-L] From HerpDigest - Sixth Diamondback Terrapin Symposium - Abstract Submission Open
Sixth Diamondback Terrapin Symposium - Abstract Submission Open Plans are well underway for the 6th Symposium on the Ecology, Status amp; Conservation of the Diamondback Terrapin to be held at St. Christopher Camp and Conference Center on Seabrook Island, South Carolina from September 13-15, 2013. We are planning an exciting meeting at a great location right on the beach! We are now welcoming abstracts for oral and poster presentations. Abstracts should include a title, complete list of authors, and an abstract body of no more than 250 words. Please include affiliations for all authors and indicate the presenter with an asterisk (*). Please follow the formatting of the sample abstract attached to this email. Abstracts should be submitted electronically to terrapin2...@davidson.edu. Include in the subject line Abstract Oral or Abstract Poster followed by the first and last name of the lead author (e.g. Abstract Oral Dorcas). We may have more requests for oral presentations than we can accommodate and thus, some who submit as oral presentation may be invited to present as a poster. Deadline for abstract submission is June 7, 2013. Registration is not required for abstract submission but will be required for final acceptance. Early registration will be open from June 7 July 15, 2013 with regular registration from July 15 August 15, 2013. Capacity is limited, so register early! We expect registration fees to be below $75. See http://www.bio.davidson.edu/terrapin2013 for more information regarding transportation and lodging at Camp St. Christopher as well as a tentative meeting agenda. We look forward to seeing you in September! - http://www.dtwg.org http://www.bio.davidson.edu/terrapin2013 Thank you to our partners for their generous support of our meeting! College of Charleston, Davidson College, Holy City Brewing, Kiawah Island Nature Program, Low Country Institute, Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation, Resort Quest, Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of North Carolina Wilmington Zoo Atlanta __ Sample Abstract. Crab trapping causes population decline and demographic changes in diamondback terrapins over two decades Michael E. Dorcas*1, John D. Willson2 J. Whitfield Gibbons2 1 Department of Biology, Davidson College, Davidson, NC 28035-7118 2 University of Georgia Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, Drawer E, Aiken, SC 29802 Diamondback terrapins (Malaclemys terrapin) are thought to be declining throughout their range. Although many factors have been proposed to contribute to terrapin declines, including increased predation of nests and adults, habitat loss and degradation, road mortality, commercial harvest for food, and mortality as bycatch in crab traps, few studies have provided evidence linking these agents to population declines. Because male and small female terrapins are most susceptible to mortality in crab traps, population declines should coincide with shifts in the age and size distributions of the population and a shift to a more female-biased sex ratio. We used twenty-one years of mark-recapture data (2800 capture of 1399 individuals) from a declining diamondback terrapin population in South Carolina to test the prediction that the decline is the result of mortality in crab traps. Since the 1980s, the modal size of both male and female terrapins has increased substantially and the proportion that are female is higher than in earlier samples. Additionally, the population now contains more old and fewer young individuals than before. The changes in demography and sex ratio we observed suggest that this terrapin population has declined as a result of selective mortality of smaller individuals in crab traps. The use of bycatch-reduction devices on crab traps may help prevent terrapins from entering the traps, but current models are too large to prevent mortality of males and many females in this population.
[ECOLOG-L] Opportunities (and good news!) at La MICA Biological Station (Panama)
Many opportunities in the coming months at La MICA Biological Station (and some good news below!): NEW RESEARCH WEBPAGE Visit http://www.lamica.org/research.html to learn about (and even become involved with) our on-going research projects. RIO PROGRAM Our Research and Inventory Opportunities Program allows students and recent graduates \to visit La MICA at a reduced cost to gain valuable tropical research experience. E-mail us for a brochure for yourself or to share with your students. We still are taking applicants for this summer!! A GREAT PLACE TO STUDY La MICA is located right on the Continental Divide in central Panama - a biological hotspot! Plan a visit to check us out and see if our facilities could serve as a future study site for you! We have a variety of lodging options so bring along the family or book for a group up to 20! We also offer local transportation, guides/field assistants, food, and other services. AND THE GOOD NEWS! We are happy to announce that Cloud Forest Institute, a 501 c3 educational nonprofit organization, is the fiscal sponsor of La MICA Biological Station!! Tax deductible donations can be made via check to: Cloud Forest Institute (memo line: La MICA), PO Box 1435, Ukiah, CA 95482 or online donations can be made at: https://www.networkforgood.org/donation/ExpressDonation.aspx?ORGID2=770480093vlrStratCode=3oaB9ZWfK53p4RGJXQO8x4QKVRGo2DmtQGe7TXnUG6AHKOnIDcygiDQBO7AZW0C9 (please include La MICA on the designation line when making an online donation). Thank you for all of your continued support and we hope to see you in Panama soon! Dr. Julie M. Ray Director La MICA Biological Station US Address: Julie Ray, 12458 132nd Street, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729 Fundación Centro de Investigación Biológica El Copé, S.A. (Panama) El Cope-La Pintada. Provincia de Cocle. Republica de Panama http//www.lamica.org
[ECOLOG-L] Ph.D. fellowship, plant physiology/biospectroscopy, Leipzig
The German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) is one of the seven National Research Centres funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG). It is located in the city of Leipzig and jointly hosted by the Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg (MLU), the Friedrich Schiller University Jena (FSU), the University of Leipzig (UL) and the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ). It is supported by the Max Planck Society, the Leibniz Association, the Klaus Tschira Foundation and the Free State of Saxony. Its central mission is to promote theory-driven synthesis and data-driven theory in this emerging field. The concept of iDiv encompasses the detection of biodiversity, understanding its emergence, exploring its consequences for ecosystem functions and services, and developing strategies to safeguard biodiversity under global change. Embedded in the active research environment of iDiv, the Young BioDiversity Research Training Group (yDiv) will be established. Its goal is to educate a new generation of scientists in transdisciplinary biodiversity research, who will have gained expertise both in experimental as well as theoretical fields of research. The University of Leipzig offers the following position: Doctoral fellowship (initially limited to 3 years, 65 percent of a full-time employment) Salary: Entgeltgruppe 13 TV-L on Plant Physiology/Biospectroscopy Topic/job description: - development of measuring protocols for IR spectroscopy - development of mathematical algorigthms for spectral analysis (chemometrics) - biochemical quantification of selected components of material from different plants - integration of IR results into a theoretical background of species specific C-allocation pattern Requirements / expected profile: - an excellent master's degree in a relevant field of research - experience in biochemical analysis of plant material - experience in in-vivo spectroscopy of plants - experience of multivariate statistical analyses - good use of spoken and written English and ambition to publish in international journals - creativity, enthusiasm and endurance We offer you a PhD position, affiliated with the University of Leipzig and supervised by Prof. Christian Wilhelm, department of Plant Physiology, Institute of Biology/University of Leipzig (http://www.uni-leipzig.de/~pflaphyshttp://www.uni-leipzig.de/~pflaphys). Applications are accepted until May 20, 2013. All applications should include: - filled application form (download under http://www.idiv-biodiversity.de/ydiv/positionsjobshttp://www.idiv-biodiversity.de/ydiv/positionsjobs) - cover letter describing research interests relevant experience - curriculum vitae - one letter of recommendation - MA/BA/Diploma certificates Applications should be directed to the yDiv coordinator Dr. Jula Zimmermann (mailto:y...@idiv-biodiversity.dey...@idiv-biodiversity.de) in a single PDF file with reference file number (54/2013) in the subject line. We prefer applications in electronic form (hard copy applications can be sent to Dr. J. Zimmermann; German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research - iDiv; Deutscher Platz 5e; 04103 Leipzig) For queries on the application process please contact mailto:y...@idiv-biodiversity.dey...@idiv-biodiversity.de
[ECOLOG-L] Monarch Butterflies Google Earth Tour
Monarch Butterflies Google Earth Tour A story about the migration of monarch butterflies, and the people that help them out along the way. Watch the Google Earth Tour video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqDwvuleRYc Download the Google Earth KMZ file: http://education.eol.org/sites/default/files/Monarch_Butterflies_Tour.kmz This Google Earth Tour was produced by Atlantic Public Media (http:// www.atlantic.org) in cooperation with the Encyclopedia of Life (http:// www.eol.org). Producers: Eduardo Garcia-Milagros Ari Daniel Shapiro
[ECOLOG-L] Amphibians Living Close to Farm Fields Are More Resistant to Common Insecticides
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/05/130501132058.htm
[ECOLOG-L] Ecologists' training in economics: free briefings from New Economics Foundation
This is a new effort by the New Economics Foundation, a great UK-based ecological economics think tank: http://www.neweconomics.org/publications/entry/economics-in-policy-making?utm_source=nef+%28the+new+economics+foundation%29+Listutm_campaign=013236c872-August+e-letterutm_medium=emailutm_term=0_222f91864b-013236c872-256499673 Particularly relevant for ecologists who recognize the flaws in mainstream economic approaches to conservation, resource management, etc. but are not yet comfortable in the world of economic jargon and concepts. The briefings are relatively short, content-rich, and free. Cheers, Ken Bagstad
[ECOLOG-L] Cameras for monitoring insects
A colleague wants to know what cameras are available for monitoring insect movement (e.g., sphinx moth). Are there cameras available with enough sensitivity to pick up their movements even during the night without actually attracting them? Would something like a trail camera work? If you know, could you send me the information? Thanks, Steve ... Stephen L. Young, PhD Weed Ecologist University of Nebraska-Lincoln steve.yo...@unl.edumailto:steve.yo...@unl.edu 308-696-6712
[ECOLOG-L] Behavioral Ecotoxicology Technician
Professors Dan Cristol and John Swaddle of the Department of Biology at the College of William Mary seek applications for a research technician position in Behavioral Ecotoxicology of birds. The position is open to candidates possessing a relevant life sciences degree or equivalent experience, and a sincere interest in the behavioral ecological effects of mercury contamination in songbirds. We are looking for someone with experience in captive wildlife handling and basic lab work and protocols; and with strong communication and organizational skills. The position is open for an initial one-year period (with the expected renewal for an additional two years) and offers competitive salary and benefits. The successful candidate will join a dynamic behavioral ornithology group and assist in the smooth running of a mercury dosing experiment on Zebra Finches to examine behavioral and physiological consequences of long-term, low-level mercury contamination. Major duties include making food and verifying dose levels, assisting PIs and students with research, and assisting with animal care. Attention to detail and meticulous record keeping are necessary. If desired, the successful applicant may conduct research within the larger project in preparation for continuing their own education. Review of applications begins immediately and will continue until an appointment is made. Submit application online through the College of William Mary Employment Opportunities website (https://jobs.wm.edu) for position 00889W which is listed at http://jobs.wm.edu/postings/13744. Information on the current research programs of the two PIs can be found at http://jpswad.people.wm.edu/ (Swaddle) and http://wmpeople.wm.edu/site/page/dacris/home (Cristol). General information about the Biology Department at William Mary may be obtained at www.wm.edu/biology. The College is an EEO/AA employer.
[ECOLOG-L] ESA’s Diversity Program receives NSF Award
ESA’s Diversity Program receives NSF Award The Ecological Society of America’s (ESA) long-standing program to diversify the field of ecology recently got another boost from the National Science Foundation (NSF). The federal research agency awarded ESA a grant of $183,158 to support the Society’s “Diverse People for a Diverse Science” project. Not only will the funding go to key existing program components, such as research fellowships, it will also fund an independent evaluation of SEEDS. “As a longtime SEEDS supporter and current advisory board member, I've always been convinced we could make a real difference for ESA and the field of ecology by doing all we can to promote diversity within our profession,” said Mark Brunson, professor at Utah State University. “So as a researcher, I'm excited that now with this grant we'll be able to get a scientifically rigorous, expert assessment of what we're doing so we can increase our momentum toward our diversity goals.” The professional evaluation will assess SEEDS program activities between 2002 and 2012, documenting outcomes, effectiveness of program components and identifying opportunities to strengthen the program. Among other questions, it will explore to what extent SEEDS has increased participants’ knowledge about ecology, pathways to enter the field and increased engagement within ESA and in community-based activities. Evaluators will also look at the ways in which SEEDS has influenced the many ESA members who have served as student mentors over the years. The NSF grant will also allow ESA to initiate two new regional field trips to connect students with opportunities and researchers in their own communities. The mission of SEEDS (Strategies for Ecology Education, Diversity and Sustainability) is to diversify and advance the ecology profession through opportunities that stimulate and nurture the interest of underrepresented students to participate, and to lead in ecology. Focused mainly at the undergraduate level—with extension services for communities, high schools, graduate students, and international collaborations—the program envisions wide representation in the ecology field. Key activities include Undergraduate Research Fellowships, leadership development, travel awards to ESA’s Annual Meeting and a national field trip. Jeramie Strickland, who also serves on the SEEDS Advisory Board, is an alum of the program. Now a wildlife biologist for the Fish Wildlife Service, Strickland credits SEEDS for helping him on the path to his chosen career. “SEEDS has made significant progress in bringing diversity into ecology by providing professional development and mentoring opportunities for underserved students. Working with SEEDS helped me get my foot in the door for graduate school and with the US Fish and Wildlife Service.” Formative Evaluation Research Associates (FERA) is conducting the SEEDS program evaluation. FERA is a woman-owned firm with experience evaluating NSF-supported and other science education programs focused on engaging underrepresented groups. The Ecological Society of America is the largest professional organization for ecologists and environmental scientists in the world. The Society’s 10,000 members work to advance our understanding of life on Earth, directly relevant to environmental issues such energy and food production, natural resource management, and emerging diseases. ESA works to broadly share ecological information through activities that include policy and media outreach, education and diversity initiatives and projects that link the ecological research and management communities and help integrate ecological science into decision-making. The Society also organizes scientific conferences and publishes high-impact journals. Visit the ESA website at http://www.esa.org.
[ECOLOG-L] Job: Assistant Curator Position on Skidaway Island, GA Marine Extension Service
The University of Georgia Marine Extension Service is seeking an Assistant Curator (Posting # 20130598) for its Marine Education Center and Aquarium on Skidaway Island. The position description is posted online at http://www.hr.uga.edu. Directions for the application process may also be found at that site. The University of Georgia as an Equal Employment Opportunity institution. Direct Link to Job Posting: https://www.ugajobsearch.com/applicants/jsp/shared/position/JobDetails_css.jsp?postingId=209069 Job Summary: Primary duties involve life support system operations, animal husbandry, and aquarium maintenance. This includes the preparation of food for a variety of animals based on the knowledge of their biology behavior; feeding the animals as needed; knowledge in monitoring treating all animals for disease, injury, and abnormal behavior; ensuring that all exhibits are educationally accurate (appropriate labeling signage); and cleaning aquaria in a manner that does not harm the animals (adhering to a monthly schedule). Also responsible for the maintenance of equipment; testing verifying that air pumps, water pumps, auxiliary filters aeration stones are functioning properly. Must prepare river intake water for use in aquarium. This requires filtering, disinfecting, and adjustment of chemical balance. Assist in maintenance of outdoor settling tanks. The successful applicant will have basic skills in boat handling, knowledge in the collection, transport, and release of live mar ine animals, experience with the use of seine nets, cast nets, and otter trawls for collection, experience in hook line fishing; willingness to conduct occasional overnight collecting trips, and willingness to work in adverse conditions. The aquarium MUST be checked 365 days of the year to confirm that systems are functioning. Willingness to work weekends, holidays, above and beyond the call of duty when emergency situations arise (the animals' well-being is of utmost priority). This responsibility is shared between several employees, but aquarium personnel are charged with oversight of weekend holiday duties. Secondary duties include working with the education department to coordinate and deliver PK-4 aquarium education programs for school groups and casual visitors (general public) in the aquarium. This will involve coordinating, scheduling, modifying/improving and teaching existing PK-4 classes as well as teaching marine science/ coastal ecology classes to grades 5-12 and adults as scheduling permits. The successful applicant will have excellent verbal and written communication skills (including social media and webpage postings), organization, and time management skills, as well as the ability to lead and work as a part of a small team of intern and volunteer educators.
[ECOLOG-L] PhD Opportunity in Wetland Ecology at Texas Tech University
PhD Opportunity in Wetland Ecology at Texas Tech University Start date summer or fall 2013 The Griffis-Kyle lab and the TTU-Waco Program invite applications for a funded PhD position in Wetland Ecology in the Natural Resources Management Program at Texas Tech University. We welcome inquiries from motivated students interested in how climate change or other stressors affects wetland dependent organisms. Students will conduct field work at the Lake Waco Wetlands (http://www.lakewacowetlands.com/) in Waco Texas and work closely with the TTU-Waco program (http://www.depts.ttu.edu/waco/). There is lab space and a natural area available on site to create an integrated research project combining laboratory and field ecology. Additionally, our partnership with the CRASR Institute of Baylor University can allow for use of their research facility onsite, including pond mesocosms. Qualifications: We are looking for highly motivated and creative students with good communication skills (oral and written) that are comfortable working independently and that have previous experience. Applicants will need a M.S. to be considered. Students should be interested in collaborating with a community college and mentoring undergraduates in research. Preference will be given to students with previous experience working with amphibians or freshwater invertebrates, field skills, competitive GRE scores, undergrad GPA (3.0), and grad GPA (3.5). Applications are currently being considered. Interested applicants should email Dr. Kerry Griffis-Kyle (kerry.griffis- k...@ttu.edu) and have PhD opportunity in the subject line. Please include in the email: 1. How this position will help you fulfill your career goals and why I should hire you 2. Resume or CV including pertinent work experience 3. Unofficial transcripts 4. GRE scores 5. Contact information for three references 6. Address, phone, and email Texas Tech University requires a background check of all new employees. For additional information: TTU Department of Natural Resources Management http://www.rw.ttu.edu/ttunrm/ TTU Graduate Schoolhttp://www.depts.ttu.edu/gradschool/
[ECOLOG-L] Jobs: PhD and Postdoc opportunities in paleoecology, biogeography and global change
PhD and Postdoc opportunities in paleoecology, biogeography and global change We are recruiting a PhD student (1) and a postdoctoral researcher (1) to work on an NSF-funded project to examine the role of biotic interactions in determining species responses to climate change. Working at macroscales and using observed changes in biotic communities as recorded in fossil pollen and mammal assemblages spanning the past 21,000 years in eastern North America, we seek to develop and test new methods for incorporating biotic interactions into macroecological models. The qualified candidates will work closely with a multidisciplinary team comprised of Jessica Blois (University of California-Merced), Matt Fitzpatrick (Appalachian Lab, University of Maryland), and Jack Williams (University of Wisconsin). ***The PhD student will reside in Blois’ lab in Merced, CA and the postdoctoral research will reside in Fitzpatrick’s lab in Frostburg, MD.*** PhD Student Details One position is available to work in the lab of Jessica Blois at UC Merced (www.jessicablois.com). Candidates for the PhD position should have experience with paleoecology and/or biogeography. Experience working with R and with species distribution modeling is desired but not essential. Anticipated start date is Fall semester, 2013 (August 2013). Graduate Student Researcher funding is available for five semesters; the remainder of the PhD will be funded through Teaching Assistant positions. The student will be funded to develop paleo-species distribution models of plant and mammals across eastern North America as part of a broader PhD thesis focused on understanding the biogeographic responses of species and communities to Quaternary environmental change. To apply, please email a short cover letter describing your background, expertise, and interests to jbl...@ucmerced.edu. Please include your GPA and GRE scores, along with contact information for three references, in your letter. The final candidate will be required to submit a complete application to the UC Merced ES graduate group and will need to meet the requirements for admission to the Environmental Systems graduate group at UC Merced (https://es.ucmerced.edu/prospective-students). Position will remain open until filled. Review of applications will begin on 5/17/2013. Postdoctoral Job Details One postdoctoral position is available to work in the lab of Matt Fitzpatrick (http://mfitzpatrick.al.umces.edu) at the Appalachian Lab, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science. Candidates for the postdoctoral position must have obtained a Ph.D. in biogeography, macroecology, modeling, or related fields at the time of employment. Expertise in species distribution modeling and R programming required. Experience with Bayesian methods desired, but not essential. The applicant’s CV should indicate evidence of excellent quantitative skills and strong scholarship, including peer-reviewed publications in high-ranked journals. Anticipated start date is no later than January 2014, Fall of 2013 preferred. Funding will be for work that develops and tests methods to investigate multispecies interactions across large climate gradients and thousands of years of climate change. Ongoing work in the lab focuses on the development and application of statistical methods to model and map patterns of biodiversity from genes to species assemblages. Current projects include combining genomics and remote sensing to model and map intraspecific variation in forest trees, modeling patterns of biodiversity in freshwater streams, and developing dynamic models of range expansion. To apply, please email as a single pdf document a CV, short cover letter (with a very brief description of research interests, experience, etc), a separate project proposal (600 words), and contact information for three references to mfitzpatr...@umces.edu. The letter should emphasize the candidate’s ability to finish projects and the unique skills the candidate might bring to the lab. Position will remain open until filled. Review of applications will begin on 5/24/2013.
[ECOLOG-L] Two biodemography PhD positions at University of Zurich
Dear all, I would like to bring to your attention the two biodemography PhD positions available in our Population Ecology Research Group (www.popecol.org) at the University of Zurich. Further details of these positions can be found here: http://popecol.org/temp/PhD_UZH.pdf I would be grateful if you could spread the word and encourage the interested students to contact me with any questions. All the best, Arpat Ozgul -- Assistant Professor of Population Ecology Institute of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies | University of Zurich Office: 34-J-24 | Tel: +41 (0)44 63 *54746* | arpat.oz...@ieu.uzh.ch | popecol.org
[ECOLOG-L] The Botanist in the Kitchen
My class on science and the media enjoyed a visit today from Jeanne Osnas, who told us about her blog, which may be of interest to many ecologists: In the blog http://botanistinthekitchen.wordpress.com/The Botanist in the Kitchen: where botany meets the cutting board Jeanne Osnas and Katherine Preston merge their interests in plant biology and cooking to explore food plants as plants as living organisms with their own evolutionary history and ecological interactions. The goal is three-fold: to share the fascinating biology of our food plants, to teach biology using edible, familiar examples, and to suggest delicious ways to bring the plants and their stories to the table. To judge by the questions the authors are often asked at dinner parties (What is an artichoke? Why is okra slimy?), some curious eaters genuinely want to know which plant part they are eating and how its identity affects the characteristics of the food. Jeanne and Katherine delve into such questions here while suggesting recipes and activities that highlight the botanical aspects of food. The answers often draw on many aspects of plant biology, including systematics, ecology, and morphology. Think of it as part botany lab, part home cooking show.
Re: [ECOLOG-L] Take the Train to ESA Minneapolis
Hello Ecologgers, There is quite an interesting discussion in response to my post about taking the train to ESA, so I thought I would chime in. Paul is 100% correct, taking the train to ESA will have no mathematical impact on climate change. In fact, nothing that any one of us changes in our own lives will have an impact on climate change, and the same can be said for many other environmental issues. So then, why take the train to ESA? 1. Reduce the carbon footprint of science. While many of us have made changes to our liftestyles to reduce our carbon footprints, increased air travel has caused the carbon footprint of many scientists to surge to 2.5 x the American average (see Fox et al. 2009 in Frontiers, http://www.esajournals.org/doi/pdf/10.1890/09.WB.019). So, finding alternative means of travel to conferences will reduce our individual carbon footprints and that of the conferences we attend. 2. Symbolism. While some may shrug this off as meaningless, I would argue that symbolic activities set an example for others to follow and can have a cascade of effects that COULD make a mathematical contribution to the climate change equation. History has shown us that acts of symbolism work (think civil rights protests in the 1960s) and there is no reason to think that they cannot continue to bring about positivie change. 3. Demand alternatives to air travel. Admittedly, the passenger rail system in the U.S. is not what it should, or could be, given our wealth. Amtrak largely travels on tracks designed for and owned by freight train companies. As a result, they are not designed for high-speed train travel and freight trains almost always get the right of way. If train travel demand increases so will the resources and justification for investing in our passenger rail infrastructure. While bad train travel experiences, such as those described by McNeeley, do occur, I would challenge you to find a mode of long-distance travel that does not have its own share of frustrating experiences (flight delays, getting searched, traffic jams, etc.). I have traversed the country many times via train and I will add that a sleeping car might be ideal, but I have never had one and just make do with my reclining train seat. My back is still ok, though I am only 34! Telecommuting would certainly have a bigger impact on the footprint of conferences and this is something that perhaps we should move towards. However, when we do have to travel to conferences, taking the train is one way to reduce our environmental impact. Certainly train travel will not be feasible for everyone, so when flying is necessary consider taking a direct flight and purchasing carbon offsets through one of the many reputable programs available (e.g., Carbonfund.org and Terrapass.com). 'Scientist' is one of the most respected and trusted professions in the U.S. As such, we have a great ability and responsibility to lead by example. As with all societal issues, we cannot expect the world around to us to change if we, ourselves, are unwilling to. REMINDER: If you decide to take the train to ESA this year and/or buy carbon offsets for your travel please email me the details so I can help coordinate and tally up the numbers. Feel free to contact me if you want some tips for saving money on your train ticket. Thanks! -Andy Reinmann -- Andy Reinmann Ph.D. Candidate Biology Department Boston University 5 Cummington St Boston, MA 02215 From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news [ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU] on behalf of Wayne Tyson [landr...@cox.net] Sent: Monday, April 29, 2013 12:28 AM To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU Subject: Re: [ECOLOG-L] Take the Train to ESA Minneapolis Lou Ziegler once said that Nature has shrugged off countless species in the history of the earth, and she will shrug of Homo sapiens in the same way. When that happens, things can get back to normal. WT “In the heart of the city I have heard the wild geese crying on the pathways that lie over a vanished forest. Nature has not changed the force that drives them. Man, too, is a different expression of that natural force. He has fought his way from the sea’s depths to Palomar Mountain. He has mastered the plague. Now, in some final Armageddon, he confronts himself.” –Loren Eiseley, The Invisible Pyramid. “We need another and a wiser and perhaps a more mystical concept of animals. Remote from universal nature, and living by complicated artifice, man in civilization surveys the creature through the glass of his knowledge and sees thereby a feather magnified and the whole image in distortion. We patronize them for their incompleteness, for their tragic fate of having taken form so far below ourselves. And therein we err, and greatly err. For the animal shall not be measured by man. In a world older and more complete than ours they move finished and complete, gifted with
[ECOLOG-L] Metal Detector
I need an advice with an equipment acquisition. We will buy a metal detector, it will be used for the detection of metal rods that delimit plots of herbaceous plants, these rods will be buried at less 1 meter deep. Some recommendations of good quality references or brands will be really appreciated. Thanks in advance for help that we can provide. Sincerely; -- Paula A. Morales M. Assistant Research Herbario Universidad de Antioquia (HUA) Colombia
[ECOLOG-L] Open Position in Forest, Fish, Fire, and Wildlife Research-Closes May 3rd
Afternoon: If you’re interested in Forest, Fish, Fire, and Wildlife research then do we have a position for you. The Resource Science Division of the Missouri Department of Conservation has an open supervisor position. Please follow the following link if you are interested or would like to apply. https://mdc5.mdc.mo.gov/recruitment/Recruitment.aspx?strRoute=zyx *Hurry it closes on May 3rd!* Best Regards, Chuck -- Charles W Anderson, PhD, Certified Wildlife Biologist ® Resource Science Supervisor Missouri Department of Conservation Conservation Headquarters 2901 W. Truman Blvd. Jefferson City, Missouri 65109
Re: [ECOLOG-L] Metal Detector
I use a metal detector to find tags for plants in a demography study. The tags are cut from aluminum beverage cans, about 3x6cm, held in the ground with a 16d nail (about 8 cm long). Pocket gophers sometimes bury the tags, and I can detect them down to a depth of about 12-15cm. My metal detector is about 35 years old though, so perhaps newer ones could find a metal rod buried (horizontal would be best I think) deeper than that. David Inouye
Re: [ECOLOG-L] Take the Train to ESA Minneapolis
So then, why take the train to ESA? 1. Reduce the carbon footprint of science. Not realistically possible. You're a student now, but when you enter the working world - either in private industry or academia - there is a very high probability your position will require you to travel by air to maximize the productivity of your time. And both the number of scientists and scientific conferences has been increasing over time. So the net carbon footprint of scientists has been increasing and can be expected to for the forseeable future. While many of us have made changes to our liftestyles to reduce our carbon footprints In the past we've had discussions about the vehicles todays ecologists drive...mainly heavy, hence gas guzzling, 3400-4500 pound all wheel drive models. But that wasn't the case 30-40 year ago. Back then an ecologist was content to drive lighter, much less powerful two wheel drive vehicles, like 2500 pound compact pickup trucks and 2,800 pound VW Buses. And if they needed four wheel drive they were willing to drive a 2,690 pound Toyota Corolla 4WD wagon: http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_images/1/1416/1161/3538080003_large.jpg So there's been an increase in the carbon footprint with regard to vehicle choice as well. History has shown us that acts of symbolism work (think civil rights protests in the 1960s) Historically austerity type symbolism has very often failed to foster reductions in per capita resource consumption. On the first Earth Day (1970) for example, the average size of a new home was about 1,500 square feet, but by 2007 that figure had increased by a whopping 67% to 2,500 square feet: http://www.avidhomestudios.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/size_graph1.jpg Thus by multiple measures; i.e. frequency of air travel, vehicle weight and horsepower choices, home size choice and so forth, the carbon footprint of the 30+ year old ecologists that are settled into their careers has been steadily increasing since Earth Day 1970. Paul Cherubini El Dorado, Calif.
Re: [ECOLOG-L] Take the Train to ESA Minneapolis
Paul- I think you have this upside down in a few ways. Taking the train actually increases productivity. For example, I often take the train from Portland to Seattle - it is a 4 hour train ride, or a 3 hour drive, but those 3 hours are completely lost to productivity (except random thinking). On the train I can work on my notebook or pad, plug it into an AC outlet, and stay connected over free wifi - a very pleasant and productive time. I anticipate taking longer trips by train for similar reasons - we need solid blocks of writing and working time. Having breaks away from the constant nagging of administrative/mentoring/teaching duties is important for productive work. Take the train! Mitch On 5/2/2013 6:36 PM, Paul Cherubini wrote: So then, why take the train to ESA? 1. Reduce the carbon footprint of science. Not realistically possible. You're a student now, but when you enter the working world - either in private industry or academia - there is a very high probability your position will require you to travel by air to maximize the productivity of your time. And both the number of scientists and scientific conferences has been increasing over time. So the net carbon footprint of scientists has been increasing and can be expected to for the forseeable future. While many of us have made changes to our liftestyles to reduce our carbon footprints In the past we've had discussions about the vehicles todays ecologists drive...mainly heavy, hence gas guzzling, 3400-4500 pound all wheel drive models. But that wasn't the case 30-40 year ago. Back then an ecologist was content to drive lighter, much less powerful two wheel drive vehicles, like 2500 pound compact pickup trucks and 2,800 pound VW Buses. And if they needed four wheel drive they were willing to drive a 2,690 pound Toyota Corolla 4WD wagon: http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_images/1/1416/1161/3538080003_large.jpg So there's been an increase in the carbon footprint with regard to vehicle choice as well. History has shown us that acts of symbolism work (think civil rights protests in the 1960s) Historically austerity type symbolism has very often failed to foster reductions in per capita resource consumption. On the first Earth Day (1970) for example, the average size of a new home was about 1,500 square feet, but by 2007 that figure had increased by a whopping 67% to 2,500 square feet: http://www.avidhomestudios.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/size_graph1.jpg Thus by multiple measures; i.e. frequency of air travel, vehicle weight and horsepower choices, home size choice and so forth, the carbon footprint of the 30+ year old ecologists that are settled into their careers has been steadily increasing since Earth Day 1970. Paul Cherubini El Dorado, Calif.
Re: [ECOLOG-L] Metal Detector
I agree with David that horizontal would be better, but you might check with utility companies which use antennae cut to a precise frequency used to mark the location of underground utilities. Many years ago I talked a local gas electric company into donating a few to identify the ends of a linear grass-planting plot I set up for our local native plant organization chapter. For circular plots I have used rebar bent into an eye, then bent over again to mark the plot center and edge (2 rebars per plot). These were driven about 6 or 8 into the ground, if I recall correctly. Deeper would probably be better, as long as the markers can be detected easily. That was about 33 years ago, and as I lost control over the experiment soon after its initiation, I do not know its present status. I believe it was abandoned. However, if the rebar markers are still present, data could still be gathered. I'm not sure about aluminum tags' longevity; I think I would prefer embossed plastic or something not subject to electrolysis/corrosion, especially in soils containing sodium. In some areas they would probably be fine, especially if the study is short-term. I admit a bias toward long-term studies. WT PS: I would like to buy a metal detector too, so I hope y'all will share info on the best and highest-performing (deepest detection capability). - Original Message - From: Paula A. Morales M. pallit...@gmail.com To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU Sent: Thursday, May 02, 2013 4:49 PM Subject: [ECOLOG-L] Metal Detector I need an advice with an equipment acquisition. We will buy a metal detector, it will be used for the detection of metal rods that delimit plots of herbaceous plants, these rods will be buried at less 1 meter deep. Some recommendations of good quality references or brands will be really appreciated. Thanks in advance for help that we can provide. Sincerely; -- Paula A. Morales M. Assistant Research Herbario Universidad de Antioquia (HUA) Colombia - No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 10.0.1432 / Virus Database: 3162/5791 - Release Date: 05/02/13
