[ECOLOG-L] Interdisciplinary research position
Hi, An interdisciplinary research position on sexual ecology and movement of small particles (pheromones) in air is open for a post doctorate. The research concerns the movement of insect pheromones in air and the related insect's flight, with the ultimate goal to understand the cost of male navigation in relation to mating benefits. The study covers areas from insect biology and ecology of sex to physics of fluids. The study is conducted in cooperation with Ally Harari, Department of Entomology, The Volcani Center, Israel, Alex Liberzon, The School of Mechanical Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Israel and Roi Gurka of the Coastal Carolina University, North Carolina, USA. Contact: Ally Harari ahar...@agri.gov.il -.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-. Dr. Ally Harari Department of Entomology The Volcani Center Bet Dagan 50250. Israel TL Office: 972 39683910 Cellular: 972 506220710 Fax: 972 39683445 e-mail: ahar...@volcani.agri.gov.ilmailto:ahar...@volcani.agri.gov.il Link to IOBC Semio-Chemicals Meeting in Jerusalem on 2015: http://www.semio-chemicals2015.com/ http://www.agri.gov.il/en/people/755.aspx http://www.agri.gov.il/download/files/machon%20vulkani-en-web_1.pdf This mail was sent via Mail-SeCure System.
Re: [ECOLOG-L] language exam for Ph.D. students?
Right now English seems to be the international language of science. Not so long ago, at least in certain fields, German was. Then before that French, then before that Latin. How long English remains the scientific lingua franca may depend on whether the US regains an interest in science and whether native English-speakers continue to be taught the language. Many of my undergrads apparently did not have the opportunity. Similarly German as a language never recovered from the scientific diaspora of the 30's and 40's. As to computer language, they too change. Basic, Fortran, Cobol, C: not so much anymore, but at the time they were the bee's knees. I suspect it would take more imagination than most of us have to successfully imagine computing in 20 years. Teach a computer language but better yet teach people to respect their inner child that wants to try new things, while not assuming that new is always better. Cheers, David Duffy On Wed, Feb 4, 2015 at 1:27 AM, Akwasi Asamoah asamoa...@outlook.com wrote: Yes, it is a fact that majority of scientists are not native English Speakers. However, majority of desired research logistics and destination outlets are found in Anglo-America. I would say, basic standard English (eg. tense, concord, structure, comprehension, summary) that affords everyone else (even the native English speaker) the opportunity to do effective scientific/technical communication in the most accurate and concise English language is what ought to be assessed/ascertained. High verbal aptitude by native English standards as predominates our current aptitude tests (GRE, TOEFL, IELTS), in my opinion, does very little in attempting to assess adequate skills in scientific/technical communication which frequently come already acquired in other native languages. This would allow non-native English speakers (who happen to be the majority of scientists and engineers) to use time which would otherwise have been spent learning verbiage to learn other very important skills like math, modelling and programming language. Date: Tue, 3 Feb 2015 18:05:49 -0700 From: daniel.fernan...@colorado.edu Subject: Re: [ECOLOG-L] language exam for Ph.D. students? To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU This is all interesting to me. I need to ask which is more beneficial: taking the time to learn english well or taking the time to learn and add a skill to your analytical toolbox? Also if is science is to become a greater part of society shouldn't english speaking scientists take the time to learn a second language? The majority of humans and don't speak english. I'm also willing to bet that most scientists don't speak english. Just some thoughts to stir the pot. Cheers. Daniel From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news [ ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU] On Behalf Of Akwasi Asamoah [ asamoa...@outlook.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 03, 2015 11:36 AM To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU Subject: Re: [ECOLOG-L] language exam for Ph.D. students? Dear Ash, Yes, math and computer skills are more critical requirements for science but some reasonable level of basic standard English is also very crucial. Often poor, inappropriate or complex language hugely drain comprehension out of our science and engineering. I do believe that though GRE, TOEFL, IELTS and their like can be an efficient mens of assessing English Proficiency, they do not in themselves constitute effective means of testing proficiency in scientific or technical communication. Thus, why communication requirements like english translation of and/or quizzing on peer-reviewed publications may come in handy as addition means of further ascertaining true technical or scientific proficiency. I mean if we are to be truly honest with ourselves, one does not have to have such high verbal aptitude to read, critique and communicate scientific and technical facts. it may be agreed that sometimes high verbal aptitude breeds costly liberties with the English language (as is often with inexperienced so-called 'native speakers'). The more they try to prove their nativeness in language, the more they are likely to be needlessly verbose to the erosion of understanding. Often, scientific and technical papers are rejected purely on the basis of strange English language, as though the the non-native author (s) suddenly invented their own English language for their paper. Thus, I think our English proficiency tests should aim to test more of reliable indicators of adequate knowledge of standard basic English by way of basic english grammar (concord), lexis and structures, and comprehension than the testing of high verbal aptitude which often throws science and engineering in ambiguity and haywire. Scientific and/or technical communication is not exactly the same as the English literature as is known or approved by native speakers. Thus, prospective recruiters
[ECOLOG-L] Job: Road Inventory Technician NV
JOB PURPOSE: The Eastern Nevada Landscape Coalition (ENLC) in Ely, Nevada is currently seeking temporary/full-time road inventory technicians for the 2015 field season. At least one applicant will be hired by ENLC to conduct mapping of roads on public lands for the purpose of updating the road inventory database for the Ely District BLM office. DUTIES: Under supervision of ENLC staff wildlife biologist, technicians will delineate and ground truth road conditions in the Ely BLM District. Technicians will use Trimble GPS units to document existing roads while riding ATV’s or on foot. The technicians will then ground truth to characterize road conditions using a data dictionary and photographs. Hiking short distances may be necessary. In the office, technicians will be responsible for organizing and archiving data in an efficient manner. (Vehicles will be provided by ENLC.) QUALIFICATIONS: Applicants should either be currently enrolled in or graduated from a program in geographic information systems, natural resource management, environmental sciences or a related field. The applicant should have general knowledge of Great Basin landforms and vegetation, be proficient with computers and handheld electronic devices and have experience with ATVs and safety. Applicants must be capable of reading maps and navigating expansive, undeveloped basin and range landscapes using compasses, aerial photography and GPS. Experience with 4WD vehicles is desirable and a clean driving record for the past 3 years is required. SALARY: $15/hour SCHEDULE: Start and end dates are negotiable depending on candidates' availability. Technicians could begin as early as May 1 and work through July. Technicians will work four 10-hour work days per week. HOW TO APPLY: Applicants should email a cover letter, resume, and the contact information for at least three references, as one pdf file, to Andrea Shipley at aship...@envlc.org. Materials should be emailed by March 20, 2015. Please write Road Inventory Technician in subject line. ENLC is a non-profit conservation organization comprised of public, private, and non-profit partners dedicated to the restoration of Western ecosystems through collaborative teamwork. For more information, please visit our website (http://www.envlc.org) or email Andrea Shipley at aship...@envlc.org.
[ECOLOG-L] *Abstract Deadline Extended to Feb 8* BES Symposium - Demography Beyond the Population
The abstract deadline has been extended to Feb 8 for the BES Symposium Demography Beyond the Population to be held in Sheffield, UK March 24-26, 2015. Preceding workshops will be offered on March 23. *Abstracts Due* - Extended to February 8 *Early Registration Closes* - February 15 http://tinyurl.com/bes-beyond-demog *Space is limited* so we strongly advise registering as soon as possible. The symposium and preceding workshops aim to highlight the emerging role of demographic tools as bridges across ecological, spatial, and temporal scales. Specific themes include evolutionary demography, environmental and physiological drivers of population dynamics, communities and coexistence, species ranges and spread, conservation and global change, and methodological advances. This is a fantastic opportunity to engage with leading researchers in a relatively small and focused setting. The symposium will be held at historic Cutlers' Hall in Sheffield with daily lunch and catering included. *Preceding Workshops* offered on March 23: --Advanced applications of matrix population models: age-x-stage (and related) demographic models -Hal Caswell --Integral projection models (IPMs) in population ecology and evolutionary biology -IPMpack Team --Demographic, equilibrium and evolutionary analysis of structured population models with continuous development: a general methodology and software package - André M. de Roos --Bayesian Survival Trajectory Analysis in R using BaSTA -Fernando Colchero and Owen Jones Organizers: Alden Griffith (agrif...@wellesley.edu), Rob Salguero-Gómez, Cory Merow, Sean McMahon, Jessica Metcalf, Dylan Childs. Speakers: Yvonne Buckley Hal Caswell Elizabeth Crone Johan Ehrlén Stephen Ellner Jordan Golubov Alden Griffith Dave Hodgson Eelke Jongejans Sean McMahon Cory Merow Jessica Metcalf Maria del Carmen Mendujano Drew Purves Mark Rees Rob Salguero-Gómez Frank Schurr Shripad Tuljapukar Maria Uriarte Full URL: http://www.britishecologicalsociety.org/events/current_future_meetings/demography-beyond-the-population-bes-annual-symposium/
[ECOLOG-L] STUDENT RESEARCH FUNDING at UM BioStation; Feb. 13 deadline
Graduate and undergraduate students studying the hydrosphere, biosphere or atmosphere should bring their research to the University of Michigan Biological Station. Our deadline for students seeking research funding is Friday, February 13. Details at: http://goo.gl/CosDQl.
Re: [ECOLOG-L] language exam for Ph.D. students?
I am a native speaker of English, and had the standard exposure to English instruction that was given in US high schools in the 1960's. Even so, I didn't really learn English grammar until I studied German. Learning a foreign language, assuming it goes beyond the merely conversational, forces one to learn grammar, and perhaps more importantly, makes one realize that linguistic features we think of as natural or logical are not at all universal, or even sensible. I've have heard comments to the effect that since my time in high school, English teachers have for various reasons essentially abdicated teaching grammar. I think this makes learning a foreign language essential to any educated person, including scientists. Martin Meiss 2015-02-04 6:27 GMT-05:00 Akwasi Asamoah asamoa...@outlook.com: Yes, it is a fact that majority of scientists are not native English Speakers. However, majority of desired research logistics and destination outlets are found in Anglo-America. I would say, basic standard English (eg. tense, concord, structure, comprehension, summary) that affords everyone else (even the native English speaker) the opportunity to do effective scientific/technical communication in the most accurate and concise English language is what ought to be assessed/ascertained. High verbal aptitude by native English standards as predominates our current aptitude tests (GRE, TOEFL, IELTS), in my opinion, does very little in attempting to assess adequate skills in scientific/technical communication which frequently come already acquired in other native languages. This would allow non-native English speakers (who happen to be the majority of scientists and engineers) to use time which would otherwise have been spent learning verbiage to learn other very important skills like math, modelling and programming language. Date: Tue, 3 Feb 2015 18:05:49 -0700 From: daniel.fernan...@colorado.edu Subject: Re: [ECOLOG-L] language exam for Ph.D. students? To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU This is all interesting to me. I need to ask which is more beneficial: taking the time to learn english well or taking the time to learn and add a skill to your analytical toolbox? Also if is science is to become a greater part of society shouldn't english speaking scientists take the time to learn a second language? The majority of humans and don't speak english. I'm also willing to bet that most scientists don't speak english. Just some thoughts to stir the pot. Cheers. Daniel From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news [ ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU] On Behalf Of Akwasi Asamoah [ asamoa...@outlook.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 03, 2015 11:36 AM To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU Subject: Re: [ECOLOG-L] language exam for Ph.D. students? Dear Ash, Yes, math and computer skills are more critical requirements for science but some reasonable level of basic standard English is also very crucial. Often poor, inappropriate or complex language hugely drain comprehension out of our science and engineering. I do believe that though GRE, TOEFL, IELTS and their like can be an efficient mens of assessing English Proficiency, they do not in themselves constitute effective means of testing proficiency in scientific or technical communication. Thus, why communication requirements like english translation of and/or quizzing on peer-reviewed publications may come in handy as addition means of further ascertaining true technical or scientific proficiency. I mean if we are to be truly honest with ourselves, one does not have to have such high verbal aptitude to read, critique and communicate scientific and technical facts. it may be agreed that sometimes high verbal aptitude breeds costly liberties with the English language (as is often with inexperienced so-called 'native speakers'). The more they try to prove their nativeness in language, the more they are likely to be needlessly verbose to the erosion of understanding. Often, scientific and technical papers are rejected purely on the basis of strange English language, as though the the non-native author (s) suddenly invented their own English language for their paper. Thus, I think our English proficiency tests should aim to test more of reliable indicators of adequate knowledge of standard basic English by way of basic english grammar (concord), lexis and structures, and comprehension than the testing of high verbal aptitude which often throws science and engineering in ambiguity and haywire. Scientific and/or technical communication is not exactly the same as the English literature as is known or approved by native speakers. Thus, prospective recruiters would need to find a more effective way of assessing proficiency in technical and/or scientific communication for successful completion of early career research work. Akwasi Date: Tue, 3 Feb 2015 16:50:45 +
[ECOLOG-L] Undergraduate programs in sustainability?
Hi everyone, I am working with an undergraduate student, currently a junior, public policy/environmental studies major. She is interested in spending her senior year studying in Europe, esp. Scandinavia or Germany. She is looking for strong programs in environmental science and/or sustainability. Any recommendations? Thanks, Lee Anne Reilly
[ECOLOG-L] Registration Open for Arthropod Genomics Symposium and IGT-RCN Workshop, June 17-19, 2015, Manhattan, Kansas
Registration is now OPEN for the Arthropod Genomics Symposium and IGT-RCN Workshop! *-*-*-*-* Ninth Annual Arthropod Genomics Symposium*-*-*-*-*- June 17, 2015 to June 19, 2015 K-State Alumni Center, Kansas State University Manhattan, Kansas Symposium Website: http://www.ksu.edu/agc REGISTRATION Please register online at the Symposium website, www.ksu.edu/agchttp://www.ksu.edu/agc! ABSTRACT DEADLINES IN 2015: Monday, March 9 – If you DO wish your abstract to be considered for an oral presentation/General Session talk. Wednesday, May 20 - If you do NOT wish for your poster abstract to be considered for oral presentation and DO want to present a poster. SPEAKERS Keynote Speaker: David A. O’Brochta, Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research Department of Entomology, University of Maryland College Park Featured Speakers: +Michelle Cilia, USDA-ARS, Boyce Thompson Institute for Plant Research, Cornell University, USA +Martin J. Donnelly, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine and the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, UK +Rosemary G. Gillespie, University of California, Berkeley, USA +Sijun Liu, Iowa State University, USA +Frank Lyko, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany +Duane McKenna, University of Memphis, USA +Armin P. Moczek, Indiana University, USA +Amanda J. Moehring, Western University, Ontario, Canada +Daniel E. Neafsey, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard University, USA +Greg Ragland, Kansas State University, USA +Anne-Nathalie Volkoff, INRA (UMR1333), Montpellier 1 University, France The symposium focuses on new insights gleaned from analyzing arthropod genomes and is designed for scientists interested in genomic studies of Arthropods, both model organisms and those of agricultural or health relevance. The program will include platform presentations, a welcome reception, a gene annotation workshop using WebApollo and arthropod genomics-related poster sessions. A few poster abstract submissions will be selected for platform presentations. Postdoctoral, graduate, and undergraduate students are also encouraged to attend. Sessions conclude Friday evening, followed by an optional evening meal. *-*-*-*-* Pre-Symposium Workshop *-*-*-*-*- INSECT GENETIC TECHNOLOGY workshop June 17, 2015 (Wednesday morning and afternoon) Robust protocols to manipulate genes and genomes have not yet been developed for most insects other than Drosophila melanogaster, and this shortfall is limiting research progress in many aspects of arthropod genomics. The NSF-RCN on Insect Genetic Technologies (IGTRCN: 2014-2019; igtrcn.org) seeks to remedy this problem by facilitating the communication of best practice and new techniques among arthropod genomicists. This IGTRCN-sponsored workshop will comprise (1) talks that showcase the latest genetic technologies, (2) discussion sessions for exchange of ideas and solutions for effective insect genetic engineering, and (3) posters. Proposals from the workshop will be integrated into the IGTRCN program of hands-on practical workshops, fellowships, and the IGTRCN KnowledgeBase. Early-career researchers are particularly encouraged to present their research at this workshop. A limited number of travel grants to attend the workshop are available for early stage investigators. Additional information on poster abstract and travel grant submission for the workshop will be posted soon on the Workshop linkhttp://www.k-state.edu/agc/symposium_level/workshop/index.html of the symposium website. TENTATIVE PROGRAM for SYMPOSIUM WORKSHOP Wednesday, June 17 – Workshop: Insect Genetic Technology Research Coordination Network (IGT-RCN) Wednesday evening, June 17, 7:30 pm - Arthropod Genomics Symposium begins with keynote presentation and welcome reception Thursday, June 18 – Symposium Platform and Poster Sessions Thursday evening, June 18, 7:00 to 9:00 pm – Workshop: Gene Annotation using WebApollo Friday, June 19 – Symposium Platform and Poster Sessions, tentatively concluding at 5:00 pm Friday evening, June 19 – Optional dinner at Konza Prairie Biological Stationhttp://kpbs.konza.k-state.edu/ with nature hikes, bison viewing, and opportunity to collect insects. VENUE: The 2015 Symposium is being hosted by the Arthropod Genomics Center at Kansas State University in Manhattan, Kansas. Symposium sessions will be held at the K-State Alumni Center on campus. HOTEL/DORM ROOMS: A block of rooms has been reserved at the Holiday Inn Manhattan at the Campus. Reservation deadline for the room block discounted price is May 20. Campus dormitory rooms will also be available. QUESTIONS: Contact Doris Merrill at dmerr...@ksu.edu. If you would like to join the ArthropodNews listserv to ensure receiving future notices, please send an e-mail with your name and e-mail address to dmerr...@ksu.edu. PLEASE SHARE THIS ANNOUNCEMENT WITH COLLEAGUES AND STUDENTS! SPONSORS: *Arthropod Genomics Center, Kansas State University *Eck
[ECOLOG-L] Help with RAMAS/GIS?
Is there anyone out there who could help me with a few problems I'm having with RAMAS/GIS? I can't seem to conduct a sensitivity analysis on a few of my model parameters and I'm not sure what I've done wrong. If you're willing to entertain my questions, please email me at larue...@umn.edu. I am very grateful for any advice I can get! Cheers, Michelle -- Dr. Michelle LaRue Research Associate Office of the Vice President for Research 405 Johnston Hall University of Minnesota Minneapolis, MN 55455 612-625-6358 Earth Sciences 310 Pillsbury Drive SE Pillsbury Hall University of Minnesota Minneapolis, MN 55455 https://sites.google.com/a/umn.edu/drmichellelarue/home
[ECOLOG-L] Field crew lead and technician positions available - Sierra Nevada
3 Field Crew Positions: Post-fire vegetation monitoring in the Sierra Nevada A Crew Lead and two Crewmember positions are available for a post-fire vegetation research project in the Sierra Nevada of California through the O’Hara and Stephens labs at UC Berkeley. The crew will collect data on forest structure, species diversity and fuels as part of a study on the effects of salvage logging in the 2013 Rim Fire on the Stanislaus National Forest. Crew will likely also assist with other projects in the USFS Region 5 Ecology Program throughout the Sierra Nevada, and will need to be able to work a flexible work schedule that varies between 4 10-hour work weeks and some extended trips of up to 8 10-hour days. The field season will begin in mid-May and last approximately 3 months. Crew housing may be provided, but the details have not been finalized and so crews may be camping for the entire summer. All employees must be comfortable camping for extensive periods, working in remote locations without cell coverage, in inclement weather and sometimes uncomfortable conditions (e.g. shrubby burned sites in full sun), all while maintaining a positive attitude and attention to detail! Day-to-day work schedules are likely to include long days when visiting more remote sites. Applicants must be comfortable hiking up to 5 miles off trail per day in rough, uneven terrain. Hazards include steep slopes, snakes, ticks, falling timber, and illegal marijuana plantations. But it will also be a fun summer outdoors! All employees must complete CPR Wilderness First Aid on their own time. Duties and Required Qualifications: Crew lead/Botanist: $18/hour Duties: Crew lead is responsible for organizing day-to-day work plans, ensuring work plans are accomplished, managing crew safety and logistics, and maintaining good communication with project lead. The Lead will also coordinate schedules with other field crews as needed. Crew lead will also act as the lead botanist. Required Qualifications ·Previous leadership experience in vegetation data collection ·Experience identifying plants to species using dichotomous keys knowledge of California flora ·Experience navigating off trail using map and compass and GPS units ·Strong organizational skills ·Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Botany, Natural Resources or related field Crewmembers: $15/hour Duties: Work as a team to collect data using a suite of sampling protocols. Desired qualifications ·Previous experience on field crews and/or a field measurements course ·Experience identifying plants to species using dichotomous keys knowledge of California flora To apply, please send a 1 page resume with contact information for three references, a brief cover letter (in the email body is fine) outlining relevant experience, the position you wish to be considered for and your availability to Kristen Shive at rimfire.2...@gmail.com. To be considered, include the position you want to be considered for in the subject line of your email (Crew lead, crew member or both). Applications will be reviewed and potential applicants will be contacted no earlier than March 1.
[ECOLOG-L] Amplicon region for bacteria next-gen sequencing
Hi, Ecologers We would like some suggestions on the selection of amplicon region for bacteria. We've been advised by the sequencing facility that shorter amplicons like V4 or V5-V6 had the best results in terms of read numbers and read quality, but not sure if a longer amplicon, such as V4-V6 or V1-V3 will work better in resolving species. Can you share with us on what amplicon region you usual use for bacteria and what do you feel about it? Thanks! Zewei Song -- Post Doc Department of Plant Pathology University of Minnesota 612-624-3476
[ECOLOG-L] Job: Research Assistant II - Water Quality, MBL
Position: Research Assistant II - Water Quality Date: February 4, 2015 Position Summary: Performs sample collection and analysis of water quality samples from Southeastern Massachusetts. Specifically, handles sample receiving, sample analyses, data management, quality control assessment and other related duties for a collaborative program between the Ecosystems Center of the MBL and the Buzzards Bay Coalition that monitors the water quality of approximately 30 estuaries in Buzzards Bay, MA. In addition, collects and processes water samples from six cranberry bogs in the Weweantic and Wareham River Watersheds as part of an effort to assess the role of cranberry farming in regional watershed nutrient budgets. Additional Information: This position has the following responsibilities and requirements: Working knowledge and experience with water quality analytical techniques. Ability to conduct field water sample collections, including the use of dataloggers or other automated field water sampling equipment. Ability to effectively supervise summer laboratory assistants. Has working knowledge and some expertise in the operation, calibration and maintenance of analytical equipment such as fluorometers, spectrophotometers, Lachat auto-analyzer, Perkin-Elmer CN analyzer. Manages data by updating files tracking sampling results, computer spreadsheets and databases, and related documents. Prepares computer spreadsheets, input data, performs mathematical calculations and basic quality analysis and quality control protocols. Valid drivers license. Other duties may be required and assigned. Basic Qualifications: Knowledge of and ability to: Perform mathematical calculations using Excel. Provide careful and thorough analysis. Listen, communicate and work effectively with a multiple people. Proficiently perform computerized word processing, comprehension, summarizing and writing/editing. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, supervisors, and collaborating organizations. Complete required Safety Training as required. Education and Experience: BS or MS degree in Chemistry, Biology, Geology or Environmental Science or equivalent field related to water quality science or assessment. Prior laboratory experience in water quality analyses, sampling techniques and requirements are essential. Physical Requirements: Work will be performed in laboratory, field and office environments. Physical ability to move and lift heavy objects (occasionally 50 pounds or more). Handling of potentially hazardous materials in the laboratory. Ability to standing or sit for extended periods of time during sample preparation and sample analyses. Special Instructions to Applicants: Required application documents include: 1. Cover Letter 2. Resume/CV 3. References: List of 3 with contact information APPLY ONLINE: https://mbl.simplehire.com The Marine Biological Laboratory is an Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity / Disabled / Veterans Employer.
[ECOLOG-L] Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) - TIDE
Position: Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) - TIDE Date: February 3, 2015 Position Summary: The Marine Biological Laboratory is seeking applicants for the Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program sponsored by the National Science Foundation. The successful applicants will work as part of a large-scale, multi-disciplinary project examining the effects of excess nutrients on salt marshes in the Plum Island Estuary, MA. (http://ecosystems.mbl.edu/Tide/). REU positions are available to U.S. citizens or Permanent Residents only who are currently enrolled as undergraduates at U.S. colleges or universities (no graduating seniors). Additional Information: The student will be immersed in an active research environment and will interact with a diversity of knowledgeable wetland scientists. The student will work closely with a mentor to develop and conduct a research project based on their interests during this 10-week program. Possible research areas include population ecology, plant ecology, invertebrate ecology, biogeochemical cycling, and community ecology. The student is expected to present their findings at MBL's Young Scientist Symposium in August in Woods Hole. Housing will be provided at the field station in Byfield, MA. Basic Qualifications: Applicants should have completed basic coursework in biology, chemistry and ideally ecology or ecosystem studies. Attention to detail and a desire to learn new laboratory and field techniques are essential. Ability to work long hours in the field and carry heavy objects over uneven marsh is required. Special Instructions to Applicants: Required documents include: 1. Cover Letter 2. Resume/CV 3. References List of 3 with contact information 4. Unofficial TTranscripts APPLY ONLINE: https://mbl.simplehire.com The Marine Biological Laboratory is an Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity / Disabled / Veterans Employer. Molly Kelleher Human Resources Assistant Marine Biological Laboratory 7 MBL Street Woods Hole, MA 02543 508-289-7422 Hours: 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
[ECOLOG-L] Job Opening: Conservation Project Manager
The Center for Natural Lands Management (CNLM) is hiring a Conservation Project Manager to work out of their Olympia, WA office. CNLM is a nonprofit 501(3)(c) organization dedicated to the protection and restoration of imperiled species and their habitats in the states of Washington and California. The Conservation Project Manager will work to enhance our understanding of prairie habitat and restoration effectiveness throughout western Washington by managing several restoration research and long-term monitoring projects. For more information about CNLM and this position, please see the attached position description or visit CNLM's website: http://cnlm.org/donate-get- involved/opportunities/. The application deadline for this position is February 20, 2015. For additional questions about the position, please contact: Sarah Hamman sham...@cnlm.org
[ECOLOG-L] Job: Summer Field Assistant - TIDE
Position: Summer Field Assistant - TIDE Date: February 3, 2015 Position Summary: A Summer Field Assistant position is available at The Ecosystems Center of the Marine Biological Laboratory for the TIDE project (http://ecosystems.mbl.edu/Tide/). Additional Information: Duties include participating in a large-scale field experiment to determine the interactive effects of nutrients and trophic structure on salt marsh ecosystems. We will follow the effects of additional nutrients on the salt marsh food web and nutrient cycles. The successful candidate will be expected to take a leadership role in executing the experiments, coordinating logistics in the field, and in monitoring some aspect of the ecosystem response to the manipulations. Responsibilities include maintaining experimental manipulations, participating in field and laboratory measurements of chemistry and biology, and processing and analyzing project data. Frequent contact with the public, government agencies, boards and committees will be required. The successful applicant will work as part of a large multi-disciplinary team consisting of PIs, postdocs, graduate students and other research assistants and gain broad experience through field and laboratory work across interdisciplinary fields including biology, chemistry, and physical oceanography. The anticipated start date of this position is May 1, 2015. Basic Qualifications: The successful candidate should possess a BS degree in Ecology, Biology, Chemistry, Ecology, or Marine Biology and at least one-year field experience in a related field. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, the ability to work as a member of a team, and the ability to communicate positively with the public are required. Ability to operate small boats and a driver's license are required. Preferred Qualifications: Experience with database management, statistical programs, and scientific writing are a plus. Physical Requirements: This position requires strenuous fieldwork (lifting approx. 50 lbs., bending, carrying heavy equipment, and walking through waist high marine waters and marsh) in marine environments, primarily intertidal settings under variable weather conditions. Ability to work with vertebrate and invertebrate animals and hazardous/harsh chemicals in the laboratory is needed. Irregular hours may include weekend, early morning or late evening work. The successful candidate will be expected to work at the Plum Island Field Station (3 hours from Woods Hole) from May through August. Special Instructions to Applicants: Required application documents include: 1. Cover Letter 2. Resume/CV 3. References: List of 3 with contact information APPLY ONLINE: https://mbl.simplehire.com The Marine Biological Laboratory is an Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity / Disabled / Veterans Employer.
[ECOLOG-L] Research Ecologist/Forester position outreach Forest Service
Pacific Southwest Research Station, USDA Forest Service Job Announcement: Research Ecologist/Research Forester (interdisciplinary) GS-0408/0460-12 Reply Due: 30 March 2015 The USDA Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Research Station (PSW) will soon be advertising for a Research Ecologist/Research Forester (interdisciplinary position). The position will be located at the Pacific Southwest Research Station in Redding, Placerville, Davis, or Fresno, California. This notification is being circulated to inform prospective applicants of this upcoming opportunity and determine interest in the position. The vacancy announcement for this position will be posted on the U.S. Government’s official website for employment opportunities www.usajobs.gov. Program: The incumbent will be a scientist in the Fire and Fuels Program of the Pacific Southwest Research Station. The mission of the Fire and Fuels Program is to produce science that will help improve management actions intended to enhance resiliency and sustainability of ecosystems affected by fire and reduce the potential for adverse or uncharacteristic effects resulting from wildland fire. Research conducted by the Fire and Fuels program provides scientific knowledge and applications to land managers, policy makers, other scientists, land owners, and communities. The program consists of a Physical Fire Science team and an Environmental Fire Science Team. The scientist will be a member of the Environmental Fire Science Team, which is composed of personnel located in Redding, Riverside, and Davis, California. The Fire and Fuels Program conducts research in five problem areas: 1) Improving measurement, modeling, and prediction of wildland fire phenomena in complex landscapes and fuels; 2) Determining the ecological effects of fire and fire removal on landscapes throughout California, Hawai'i, and the Pacific Islands; 3) Evaluating the short and long-term outcomes of fuels, fire and post-fire management strategies; 4) Measuring and discovering the interactions between climate, vegetation, and fire in the face of climate change and how do we improve our understanding and predictability of these interactions in order to manage forests and wildlands more effectively; and 5) Examining risk analysis to assist the evaluation of management options and determine what decision support tools are needed to support science- based decision-making. Duties: The scientist will be responsible for developing and carrying out research projects in line with Program problem areas, chiefly problem areas 2, 3, and 4, which are the primary responsibility of the Environmental Science Team. Areas of study that are particularly sought include interactions between fuels, topography and weather in controlling fire behavior and fire effects in complex landscapes of the western U.S.; efficacy of fuel treatments and post-wildfire treatments in altering future fire behavior and effects; evaluation of different fire management approaches; how forest management practices or climate change has affected resilience to wildfire and approaches for restoring more resilient forest conditions; and fire-climate relationships. The scientist’s research program would ideally focus on studies at the landscape-scale, or at least have applicability at the landscape scale. Familiarity with GIS, remote sensing products (e.g. LandSat, MODIS, LiDAR), modeling approaches, and interest in incorporating such tools in research to further our understanding of fire-related phenomena is needed. Ultimately research results will contribute to development of decision support tools and models for managers (problem area 5). Requirements: An applicant for this position should have a Ph.D. in Ecology, Forestry or a related field of study, including at least 24 semester hours in biological science or forestry. Pacific Southwest Research Station (PSW): The Station is a world leader in natural resources research through scientific excellence and responsiveness to the needs of current and future generations. PSW represents the Research and Development branch of the USDA Forest Service in the states of California and Hawai`i and the US-affiliated Pacific Islands. Our mission is to develop and communicate science needed to sustain forest ecosystems and their benefits to society. Our staff is primarily located at 8 campuses in Albany (headquarters), Arcata, Davis, Fresno, Hilo, Placerville, Redding, and Riverside. The research occurs both in our labs and at many field sites. This position will be located in Redding, Placerville, Davis, or Fresno, CA. Information on these communities can be found at the links below: Redding: http://www.ci.redding.ca.us/demographics.html Placerville: http://www.cityofplacerville.org/our_city/about/profile.asp Davis: http://cityofdavis.org/about-davis Fresno: http://www.fresno.gov/default.htm If you are interested in receiving a copy
Re: [ECOLOG-L] language exam for Ph.D. students?
I agree, Daniel. My colleagues and I offered a scientific writing workshop for graduate students last semester and 75% of attendees were native English speakers. In comments after the workshop, many graduate students said that they hadn't even remembered what a topic sentence was and had re-learned many basics of grammar and sentence structure. English is hard for native speakers but remembering this made these students more compassionate for the challenges their foreign peers face. If native English-speaking scientists had to learn another language, we would appreciate just how hard our international (non-native speakers) colleagues have to work. Nancy On Tue, Feb 3, 2015 at 8:05 PM, Daniel Poirot Fernandez daniel.fernan...@colorado.edu wrote: This is all interesting to me. I need to ask which is more beneficial: taking the time to learn english well or taking the time to learn and add a skill to your analytical toolbox? Also if is science is to become a greater part of society shouldn't english speaking scientists take the time to learn a second language? The majority of humans and don't speak english. I'm also willing to bet that most scientists don't speak english. Just some thoughts to stir the pot. Cheers. Daniel From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news [ ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU] On Behalf Of Akwasi Asamoah [ asamoa...@outlook.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 03, 2015 11:36 AM To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU Subject: Re: [ECOLOG-L] language exam for Ph.D. students? Dear Ash, Yes, math and computer skills are more critical requirements for science but some reasonable level of basic standard English is also very crucial. Often poor, inappropriate or complex language hugely drain comprehension out of our science and engineering. I do believe that though GRE, TOEFL, IELTS and their like can be an efficient mens of assessing English Proficiency, they do not in themselves constitute effective means of testing proficiency in scientific or technical communication. Thus, why communication requirements like english translation of and/or quizzing on peer-reviewed publications may come in handy as addition means of further ascertaining true technical or scientific proficiency. I mean if we are to be truly honest with ourselves, one does not have to have such high verbal aptitude to read, critique and communicate scientific and technical facts. it may be agreed that sometimes high verbal aptitude breeds costly liberties with the English language (as is often with inexperienced so-called 'native speakers'). The more they try to prove their nativeness in language, the more they are likely to be needlessly verbose to the erosion of understanding. Often, scientific and technical papers are rejected purely on the basis of strange English language, as though the the non-native author (s) suddenly invented their own English language for their paper. Thus, I think our English proficiency tests should aim to test more of reliable indicators of adequate knowledge of standard basic English by way of basic english grammar (concord), lexis and structures, and comprehension than the testing of high verbal aptitude which often throws science and engineering in ambiguity and haywire. Scientific and/or technical communication is not exactly the same as the English literature as is known or approved by native speakers. Thus, prospective recruiters would need to find a more effective way of assessing proficiency in technical and/or scientific communication for successful completion of early career research work. Akwasi Date: Tue, 3 Feb 2015 16:50:45 + From: ashley.ballant...@umontana.edu Subject: Re: [ECOLOG-L] language exam for Ph.D. students? To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU Just to be fair we should implement an exam to ensure that all graduate students are fluent in at least one computer language- regardless of native language! I would argue that logical computer syntax is more critical than illogical English syntax to one's future success in science. ash -Original Message- From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news [mailto: ECOLOG-L@listserv.umd.edu] On Behalf Of David Inouye Sent: Monday, February 02, 2015 4:38 PM To: ECOLOG-L@listserv.umd.edu Subject: [ECOLOG-L] language exam for Ph.D. students? I know Univ. of NC still had a requirement in mid-1970s as I had to take an exam then, and my son had to take one at Duke in the 1990s. Are there still any Ph.D. programs that require students take a language exam? Typically students had to read a paper in the chosen language, and then answer questions about it posed by a faculty member or committee to confirm comprehension. So just a reading requirement, not spoken. David Inouye -- Nancy E. Karraker, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Wetland Ecology Department of Natural Resources Science University of
Re: [ECOLOG-L] language exam for Ph.D. students?
Yes, it is a fact that majority of scientists are not native English Speakers. However, majority of desired research logistics and destination outlets are found in Anglo-America. I would say, basic standard English (eg. tense, concord, structure, comprehension, summary) that affords everyone else (even the native English speaker) the opportunity to do effective scientific/technical communication in the most accurate and concise English language is what ought to be assessed/ascertained. High verbal aptitude by native English standards as predominates our current aptitude tests (GRE, TOEFL, IELTS), in my opinion, does very little in attempting to assess adequate skills in scientific/technical communication which frequently come already acquired in other native languages. This would allow non-native English speakers (who happen to be the majority of scientists and engineers) to use time which would otherwise have been spent learning verbiage to learn other very important skills like math, modelling and programming language. Date: Tue, 3 Feb 2015 18:05:49 -0700 From: daniel.fernan...@colorado.edu Subject: Re: [ECOLOG-L] language exam for Ph.D. students? To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU This is all interesting to me. I need to ask which is more beneficial: taking the time to learn english well or taking the time to learn and add a skill to your analytical toolbox? Also if is science is to become a greater part of society shouldn't english speaking scientists take the time to learn a second language? The majority of humans and don't speak english. I'm also willing to bet that most scientists don't speak english. Just some thoughts to stir the pot. Cheers. Daniel From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news [ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU] On Behalf Of Akwasi Asamoah [asamoa...@outlook.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 03, 2015 11:36 AM To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU Subject: Re: [ECOLOG-L] language exam for Ph.D. students? Dear Ash, Yes, math and computer skills are more critical requirements for science but some reasonable level of basic standard English is also very crucial. Often poor, inappropriate or complex language hugely drain comprehension out of our science and engineering. I do believe that though GRE, TOEFL, IELTS and their like can be an efficient mens of assessing English Proficiency, they do not in themselves constitute effective means of testing proficiency in scientific or technical communication. Thus, why communication requirements like english translation of and/or quizzing on peer-reviewed publications may come in handy as addition means of further ascertaining true technical or scientific proficiency. I mean if we are to be truly honest with ourselves, one does not have to have such high verbal aptitude to read, critique and communicate scientific and technical facts. it may be agreed that sometimes high verbal aptitude breeds costly liberties with the English language (as is often with inexperienced so-called 'native speakers'). The more they try to prove their nativeness in language, the more they are likely to be needlessly verbose to the erosion of understanding. Often, scientific and technical papers are rejected purely on the basis of strange English language, as though the the non-native author (s) suddenly invented their own English language for their paper. Thus, I think our English proficiency tests should aim to test more of reliable indicators of adequate knowledge of standard basic English by way of basic english grammar (concord), lexis and structures, and comprehension than the testing of high verbal aptitude which often throws science and engineering in ambiguity and haywire. Scientific and/or technical communication is not exactly the same as the English literature as is known or approved by native speakers. Thus, prospective recruiters would need to find a more effective way of assessing proficiency in technical and/or scientific communication for successful completion of early career research work. Akwasi Date: Tue, 3 Feb 2015 16:50:45 + From: ashley.ballant...@umontana.edu Subject: Re: [ECOLOG-L] language exam for Ph.D. students? To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU Just to be fair we should implement an exam to ensure that all graduate students are fluent in at least one computer language- regardless of native language! I would argue that logical computer syntax is more critical than illogical English syntax to one's future success in science. ash -Original Message- From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news [mailto:ECOLOG-L@listserv.umd.edu] On Behalf Of David Inouye Sent: Monday, February 02, 2015 4:38 PM To: ECOLOG-L@listserv.umd.edu Subject: [ECOLOG-L] language exam for Ph.D. students? I know Univ. of NC still had a requirement in mid-1970s as I had to take an
[ECOLOG-L] REU Internship - Minorities in Marine and Environmental Sciences (MIMES) Program, SCDNR Charleston, South Carolina
Dear colleague, I am writing to let you about an opportunity for minority undergraduates interested in marine and environmental sciences to participate in the NSF-funded Minorities in Marine and Environmental Sciences (MIMES) Program, a 12-week paid summer internship at the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources in Charleston, South Carolina USA. I have served as Principal Investigator for this program since 2009 and most recently was successful in securing funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to implement this program in the summers of 2013-2015. In 2015, this 12-week paid summer internship will be from May 18th to August 7th 2015, with the grant covering the costs of return travel to and from Charleston, dormitory housing with the College of Charleston, a $4,500 stipend and any associated individual intern research project costs (up to $500 per student). Each intern will receiving expert training in the key professional skills needed to pursue graduate school and/or a career in the marine and environmental science disciplines, design and complete an individual research project under the guidance of their mentor(s), and will present their findings to their peers and the Fort Johnson research community at the end of the program in a one-day colloquium setting. More information about the MIMES Program and instructions on the application process can be found at the following websites: MIMES Program website: http://www.dnr.sc.gov/marine/minority/ MIMES Program application information: http://www.dnr.sc.gov/marine/minority/requirements.html MIMES Program Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/minoritiesinmarineandenvironmentalsciences?ref=hl Please note that our deadline for applications is MARCH 13th 2015 and so there are now less than 6 weeks left for interested students to apply Sincerely, Peter Kingsley-Smith Associate Marine Scientist SCDNR Marine Resources Research Institute 217 Fort Johnson Road Charleston SC 29422-2559 Tel. No. 843-953-9840 Fax. No. 843-953-9820 E-mail: kingsleysmi...@dnr.sc.gov http://www.dnr.sc.gov/marine/mrri/index.html http://spinner.cofc.edu/marine/directory/individuals/ecology/kingsley-smith.html
[ECOLOG-L] Postdoctoral Researcher in Fish environmental DNA and NGS
Postdoctoral Researcher in Fish eDNA and genetics Great Lakes Genetics/Genomics Laboratory, University of Toledo Lake Erie Center, Toledo, OH Closing Date: February 28, 2015 http://www.utoledo.edu/nsm/lec/research/glgl/index.html Description: The research project is to help develop, test, and publish a Next-generation sequence assay for detecting and identifying all Great Lakes native and invasive fish species, including those anticipated to invade, from environmental DNA and plankton samples. The postdoctoral research associate will organize large DNA sequence databases, train and co-supervise students and technicians, and be thoroughly competent and experienced in bioinformatics, DNA extraction, PCR, DNA sequencing, and population genetic and systematic evolutionary data analyses. Qualifications: Ph.D. degree required in hand. Publication of Ph.D. results in peer-reviewed journals required. Excellent recommendation from former advisors required. Teaching and supervisory experience preferred. Grant funding record preferred. Data management experience, bioinformatics, and data analysis experience in molecular phylogenetics and population genetics required. DNA extraction, PCR, DNA Sequencing (both Sanger and Illumina MiSeq), sequence alignment and GenBank experience required. Familiarity with QIIME, Unix/Linux operating systems and writing script in Perl is a plus. Strong communication (written, oral) skills required. Experience in working with fishes strongly preferred. Strong personnel interaction skills and experience in training others required. Oral research presentation experience at national or international scientific conferences required. Fish specimen collection experience strongly preferred. How to Apply: Send (1) cover letter, (2) CV, (3) copies of graduate and undergraduate transcripts (unofficial are fine) and (4) 2 letters of reference. Please combine items (1), (2) and (3) together as a single PDF. Have letters of reference sent by writers, separately. Have all application materials sent to: Dr. Stepien at carol.step...@utoledo.edu. Competitive salary, full benefits. Beautiful well-funded lab (by NSF, USEPA, ARS, Sea Grant) on Lake Erie (with view) at Lake Erie Center field station 20-25 minutes from main University of Toledo campus. The Great Lakes Genetics Laboratory currently has another post-doc, 3 Ph.D. students, a full-time technician, and 2 undergraduate researchers. The University of Toledo is an Equal Access, Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer and Educator and is committed to increasing the diversity of our campus. For questions or inquiries contact Carol Stepien Distinguished University Professor and Director Lake Erie Center and Dept. Environmental Sciences 6200 Bayshore Rd. Toledo, OH 43615 Phone: 4195308362 Fax: 4195308399 carol.step...@utoledo.edu
[ECOLOG-L] Summer Research Assistant with the TIDE project at the Plum Island LTER
We are looking for Summer Research Assistant who is enthusiastic and interested in saltmarsh ecosystem ecology to work with the TIDE project (http://www.mbl.edu/tide)an NSF funded whole ecosystem nutrient enrichment experiment at the Plum Island LTER this summer. To apply: https://mbl.simplehire.com/postings/2888 Please forward far and wide. -- James Nelson Ph.D. Assistant Research Scientist Northeast Climate Science Center Ecosystems Center Marine Biological Laboratory 7 MBL St. Woods Hole, MA Ph: 508-289-7754 Fax: 508-457-1548 Email: jnel...@mbl.edu Website: www.jamesanelson.wordpress.com
