[ECOLOG-L] Fully funded 3yr PhD on genetics of invasive species

[Philip Hulme]

The Bio-Protection Research Centre, Lincoln University, New Zealand is 
offering a fully funded PhD fellowship addressing the contemporary evolution 
of invasive weeds. This is a fantastic opportunity for a student wanting to 
bridge the disciplines of ecology and bioinformatics using cutting-edge 
molecular techniques with real world applications. The student will become a 
key member of a national research team undertaking an integrated project 
examining phenotypic variation, niche shifts and local adaptation in 
invasive plant species using globally-distributed weeds in the genus Rumex 
(dock) as a study system. 

The PhD aims to examine the genetic basis of performance differences in 
invasive plants between the native and introduced range.  Applying a range 
of molecular and genomic technologies, the PhD will determine the extent of 
genotypic variation among and within populations of invasive plant species 
in the native (Europe) and introduced range (New Zealand) and apply 
experimental approaches to identify the benefits of genetic admixture in 
plant invasions.  There is scope within the PhD to account for both the 
particular interests of the successful candidate and the outcome of other 
ongoing experiments within the larger project.  

The scholarships provide an annual stipend of NZD$28,000 a year tax- free, 
covers full university fees and includes up to approximately NZD$10,000 
additional support a year towards operating expenses. The duration of the 
scholarship is three years. It is expected the successful candidates will be 
based at Lincoln University, Canterbury, New Zealand. Applicants for this 
project should hold a first class or high 2A honours degree, or equivalent, 
in a relevant area, preferably with interest in population genetics and/or 
molecular ecology as well as a desire to combine both field and laboratory 
analyses. The ideal candidate will be independent, organized and a problem 
solver with some experience in lab bench work, molecular ecology/population 
genetics, and/or bioinformatics for genomic data analyses, and be prepared 
to conduct some field-based research in a collaborative environment. The 
position is open to applicants of any nationality, provided they are fluent 
in English, have suitable qualifications from an internationally recognised 
university, are able to obtain a student visa and eligible for admission to 
the PhD program at Lincoln University. Applications should include evidence 
of qualifications and research experience, together with a curriculum vitae 
and contact details of three academic referees. Applications should be 
supported by a cover letter that states why the candidate is interested in 
the PhD and how their qualifications would map onto the proposed research. 
Please email complete applications to philip.hu...@lincoln.ac.nz. 

Closing date for applications is 1st November 2017 with an expected start 
date before May 2018.

[ECOLOG-L] biogeochemistry/geobiology faculty position at Arizona State University

[Heather Throop]

Assistant Professor JOB #12117
School of Earth and Space Exploration

Arizona State University

The School of Earth and Space Exploration (SESE) invites applications for an 
Assistant Professor with expertise in geobiology and/or biogeochemistry. 
Anticipated start date is August 2018. We desire a candidate who (1) addresses 
fundamental questions in the interdependence of biological and geochemical 
processes on Earth and other habitable planets, and (2) can develop 
collaborations with other closely affiliated research programs in SESE 
(possibilities include astrobiology, geochemistry, ecosystem dynamics, 
hydrology, geodynamics, planetary science, and surface processes). We are 
interested in individuals showing capacities to bridge research in biological 
and geological processes. Examples include combining the geologic and genomic 
records to reveal the history of geobiological processes, harnessing molecular 
methods to track energy and material flows in active ecosystems, and 
theoretical developments related to the origin and evolution of life. The 
successful candidate will be expected to conduct research in biological and 
geochemical processes, teach at the undergraduate and graduate levels, and 
participate in service activities in the school, college and university.

Minimum qualifications:
•  PhD in Geobiology or related field by the time of appointment.
•  Established publication track record in Earth or planetary geobiological 
research.
•  Demonstrated expertise in research methods that reveal biological and 
geochemical interactions.
•  Demonstrated potential to establish a vigorous, externally-funded research 
program.
•  Commitment to quality teaching at the graduate and undergraduate levels.

Desired Qualifications:

•  Research expertise: We are interested in individuals showing capacities to 
bridge research in biological and geological processes. Examples include 
combining the geologic and genomic records to reveal the history of 
geobiological processes, harnessing molecular methods to track energy and 
material flows in active ecosystems, and theoretical developments related to 
the origin and evolution of life.

-  Demonstrated success meeting the educational needs of diverse student 
populations and  engaging in scientific outreach to diverse communities.

SESE brings together Earth and space science into one school, breaking 
traditional disciplinary boundaries to investigate the biggest questions.  SESE 
combines the strengths of science, engineering, and education, to set the stage 
for a new era of exploration.  See sese.asu.edu and 
sese.asu.edu/about/opportunities/faculty-positions
 for more information.

To apply, please submit the following materials as a single PDF file: 1) a 
cover letter that includes a description of the applicant’s research and 
teaching interests and experience, and indicate the Job number 12117 in your 
letter; 2) a current CV; and 3) the names, email addresses, institution, title, 
and telephone numbers of three references. Email the PDF of these application 
materials to sesenew...@asu.edu.

Initial deadline for receipt of complete applications is November 20, 2017; if 
not filled, reviews will continue weekly until search is closed. A background 
check is required for employment.

Arizona State University is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor and an Equal 
Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will be 
considered without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, 
disability, protected veteran status or any other basis protected by the law. 
www.asu.edu/aad/manuals/acd/acd401 
www.asu.edu/titleIX/


Heather Throop
Associate Professor | School of Earth & Space Exploration

Associate Professor | School of Life Sciences

Co-Director | Environmental Life Sciences PhD Program


Arizona State University
Tempe, Arizona 85287
USA

Re: [ECOLOG-L] Recycling in any place that alleges recycles (e.g. colleges, universities, high schools, etc.)

[Peter Beck]

Several years ago a student political group on our campus was spreading
that rumor, that contents of recycle bins were just thrown in the trash
(even though it was not true) in an effort to discourage recycling as they
viewed it as supporting a particular political ideology.  I have no idea
how common this is, but you might be interested in including such behavior
in your study, as well as be sure to verify any claims of it happening that
you receive.

On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 11:56 AM, Jorge A. Santiago-Blay  wrote:

> Recycling in any place that alleges recycles (e.g. colleges, universities,
> high schools, etc.)
>
> Dear Colleagues:
>
> A few weeks ago, I posted a request for cases of (alleged) recycling in
> colleges and universities where the recyclables are actually *not* recycled
> (e.g., turned in with the regular trash and/or incinerated). Now, having
> received an indication of a high school that "recycles" and the recyclables
> are turned in with the regular trash, I would like to expand this request
> to include any place on Earth that alleges recycles (e.g. colleges,
> universities, high schools, etc.) and does not.
>
> Please, email me at blayjo...@gmail.com
>
> Apologies for potential duplicate emails.
>
> In gratefulness,
>
> Jorge
>
> Jorge A. Santiago-Blay, PhD
> blaypublishers.com
>
> 1. Positive experiences for authors of papers published in *LEB*
> http://blaypublishers.com/testimonials/
>
> 2. Free examples of papers published in *LEB*: http://blaypublishers.
> com/category/previous-issues/.
>
> 3. *Guidelines for Authors* and page charges of *LEB*:
> http://blaypublishers.com/archives/ *.*
>
> 4. Want to subscribe to *LEB*? http://blaypublishers.com/subscriptions/
>
>
> http://blayjorge.wordpress.com/
> http://paleobiology.si.edu/staff/individuals/santiagoblay.cfm
>



-- 
Peter Beck, PhD
Associate Professor of Environmental Science and Policy
Director, Professional Science Master's in Environmental Management and
Sustainability
St. Edward's University
Box 775
3001 S. Congress Avenue
Austin, TX  78704
512-428-1249

[ECOLOG-L] Postdoctoral Researcher: Plant-soil microbe interactions, University of Kansas

[Peggy Schultz]

Postdoctoral Researcher positions in the study of the ecology and evolution of 
plant-microbiome 
interactions are available in the lab of Jim Bever at the University of Kansas. 
 Individual projects focus on 
(1) the role of AM fungal community dynamics on plant species turnover and 
coexistence, (2) the role of 
pathogens in patterns of plant diversity and its benefits
(3) microbiome mediation of plant adaptation along a precipitation gradient.
 
1. AM fungal dynamics. We have found that late successional plant species are 
more responsive to 
mycorrhizal fungi (Koziol and Bever 2015), are more sensitive to particular 
species of mycorrhizal fungi 
(Koziol and Bever 2016), and generally have less negative soil community 
feedbacks (Bauer et al. 2015), 
all of which are consistent with AM fungal community dynamics playing an 
important role in plant 
dynamics during succession. 
 
2. Plant pathogens.  Accumulating evidence identifies pathogen dynamics as 
critical to generating 
negative plant-soil feedbacks, leading to plant species coexistence (Bever et 
al 2015).  We will be testing 
the extent to which pathogen dynamics drive patterns and benefits of plant 
diversity.
 
3. Microbiome influence on plant adaptation. Kansas has a dramatic 
precipitation gradient.  We have 
found that the AM fungal community in undisturbed grasslands are markedly 
differentiated along the 
gradient, but this differentiation is lost with disturbance.  We will be 
testing the extent to which 
mycorrhizal fungi and other components of the plant microbiome mediate 
adaptation and resource 
dynamics along the gradient.  
 

Jim Bever and Peggy Schultz share a lab that is generally interested in the 
ecology and evolution of plant 
microbe interactions.  Much of our work focusses on the feedbacks on plant 
fitness through changes in 
microbial composition and the influence of this feedback on plant species 
coexistence, invasion, 
succession and community structure.  We are also interested in the application 
of microbial dynamics to 
restoration of native plant species and overyielding in polyculture.  The lab 
has research emphases on 
the evolution of species interactions, including the stability of mutualism, 
the evolution of virulence, and 
life history trade-offs.  We integrate greenhouse and field experiments, 
environmental sequencing, and 
theory development.  
 
We are located in the Lawrence, Kansas in the Kansas Biological Survey 
(https://biosurvey.ku.edu/) and 
the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (https://eeb.ku.edu/).

The start date for these positions is flexible.
 
Job Description:
60% Research -  Design and execution of experiments
These duties include carrying out original research relative to the laboratory 
mission. Perform 
experiments on an individual basis that pertain to current research topics in 
the department. 
 
20% Reporting -  Write reports and papers
Writes technical reports and scientific papers for peer reviewed journals.  
Additional responsibilities 
include assisting in the preparation of grants/contracts and proposals for 
federal, state and charitable 
organizations and industrial clients.
 
15% Collaboration -  Assist other laboratory members with experiments
Assist the principal investigator to provide experimental and technical 
supervision of one or more 
technician, graduate student and/or post-doctoral researchers and/or fellows.
 
5% Laboratory protocol -  Routine lab management
Ensuring systems are in place for efficient planning of lab supplies, records 
and document management 
as well as experimental protocols and data, and coordination of good lab 
practices and lab safety.
 
Required Qualifications:
1. Doctoral degree in Environmental Science, Ecology or closely related field.
2. Demonstrated experience with research in the field of Applied Ecology.
3. Record of scientific publications in the field of Ecology and Environmental 
Biology.

NOTE:  To be appointed at the Postdoctoral Researcher title, it is necessary to 
have the PhD in hand.  
Appointments made without a diploma or certified transcript indicating an 
earned doctorate are 
conditional hires and are appointed on an acting basis not to exceed six 
months.  Upon verification of 
degree the appointment will be extended to its full duration.
 
Candidate Instruction:
 
A complete applications includes the online application along with (1) a CV, 
(2) copies of unofficial 
transcripts and (3) a cover letter describing experience, potential research 
interests, and general career 
goals and 4) contact information for 3 professional references.
 
Salary: Begins at 47,476.00; salary commensurate with experience and education

Application review begins Nov 1, 2017. To ensure consideration, apply prior to 
the review date.

Start date: negotiable 
 
Apply to: https://employment.ku.edu/staff/10096BR
 
If you have questions please contact pschu...@ku.edu

The University of Kansas prohibits discrimination on 

[ECOLOG-L] Ph.D. Position in Human Behavioral Ecology

[Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior Graduate Program]

GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIP (Ph.D. in Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior) - at
Boise State University. A position is available for a Ph.D. student in
human behavioral ecology interested in one of the following research
topics: sexual conflict, parent-offspring conflict, parental investment,
reproductive-decision making, or kin cooperation and conflict.  The student
will propose a PhD project in their application materials.

 *Qualifications*

We are seeking someone who 1) possesses quantitative and statistical
skills, 2) wants to conduct international fieldwork, and 3) has a passion
for using behavioral ecological models to understand human behavior.
Competitive
students will have a Master’s degree and a background in evolutionary
anthropology or behavioral ecology. Please address your qualification for
each of these points in your cover letter and note any foreign language
skills. The position starts Fall (Aug) 2018.



*Stipend and tuition and fees*

This position includes support in the form of a graduate assistantship
(renewable, 12-month at $25,000), tuition and fee waiver, and health
insurance.



*About the program and Boise*

The Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior PhD is a new and modern graduate
program at Boise State University. This program brings together faculty
from across multiple academic departments including biological sciences,
geosciences, anthropology, and the human-environment systems group to offer
relevant courses and provide unique mentorship and training opportunities.
Further, we have created a network of valuable connections in academia,
local relationships with federal and state agencies, nonprofits and NGOs,
as well as partnerships with international organizations all dedicated to
providing students with transformative research and educational experiences
for diverse career opportunities. To learn more, please visit:
http://eeb.boisestate.edu/.

Students in this program enjoy living in the beautiful city of Boise, which
strikes a perfect balance with close-by outdoor recreational activities as
well as a vibrant downtown life. Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky
Mountains and the capital of the State of Idaho, Boise is frequently
featured as a top-ranked metropolis. The city has ample opportunities for
world-class outdoor activities year round and a thriving arts and
entertainment culture. In 2017, US News and World report ranked Boise the
12th best city to live in the United States.

*To Apply*

Please send via email in a single file attachment (include your last name
in the file name): a cover letter that states qualifications, proposed PhD
project,  and career goals, a CV with the names and contacts for 3
references, copies of transcripts (unofficial are O.K.) and GRE scores and
percentiles (not combined) to *kristinsnopkow...@boisestate.edu
*. Please put “PhD application” in the
subject line. Applications will be reviewed as they are received until
December 15, 2017. If you do not have GRE scores by the deadline your
application cannot be considered.  Top candidates will be asked to formally
apply to Boise State’s EEB program by January 20.  All admission decisions
must be approved by the Graduate Dean.

Boise State University embraces and welcomes diversity in its faculty,
student body, and staff. Accordingly, applicants who would add to the
diversity and excellence of our academic community are encouraged to apply.

[ECOLOG-L] Microstegium (stiltgrass) seed collecting help

[NeSmith,Julienne E]

Hi all, we need your help collecting Microstegium (stiltgrass) seed! We have a 
new grant where we are 
trying to understand the long-term effects of pathogens on invaded plant 
communities. Seed from 
populations throughout the invaded range would be helpful.
 
Our seed collecting protocol is outlined below, note that we can cover shipping 
charges via FedEx. It 
would be helpful if you could provide a close up photo of the plants so we can 
determine if the 
population is infected, and if you happened to know the approximate age of the 
invasion that also could 
be useful.
 
Please circulate this to others who might be able to help out.
 
Thank you!
 
Jules NeSmith (on behalf of) S. Luke Flory
University of Florida

Note: Microstegium seed is mature when it is mostly brown and can be easily 
shaken from the seed 
head. Seed collected while still green will have lower germination. Seed 
matures at the end of 
September through mid to late October depending on latitude, with more northern 
latitudes maturing 
first.
 
Microstegium has a mixed mating system, which means that it produces seed by 
both selfing and 
outcrossing. Outcrossed or chasmogomous seed is the seed that you see produced 
at the end of tillers 
and those are the seeds we are interested in obtaining.
 
We are focused on among population variation, not within population, so to 
collect seed you can simply 
collect seed from anywhere within an approximately 20m diameter area. The 
simplest method is to 
arbitrarily walk around in a given area, grab the ends of tillers in large 
bunches, and shake the seed 
heads into a paper grocery bag.
 
We need about at least 50ml or ¼ cup of seed from each population for it to be 
useful. That amount can 
be collected from with a dense invasion in about 5-10 minutes. Collecting more 
seed could be very 
helpful.
 
We need the approximate lat/long coordinates of the collection location. If you 
happen to be in the field 
a lot and can collect seed from multiple populations, they need to be separated 
by 2-5 km. A short 
description of the site would also be useful.
 
Please send seed in a padded envelope to:
 
S. Luke Flory
Agronomy Dept, IFAS
McCarty B 3127
Gainesville, FL, 32611
 
Cell: 352-231-2376
Email: fl...@ufl.edu
 
* For international shipments contact me via email prior to shipping! I will 
need to provide a permit and 
special shipping label. There are specific packing instructions.
 
If you can ship FedEx I can provide you with an account number for billing.
 
Thanks!

[ECOLOG-L] Job Announcement:MOFEP Canopy Mapping Technician

[Shannon Ehlers]

The University of Missouri in collaboration with Missouri Department of 
Conservation is accepting applications to fill one (1) research field 
technician position conducting tree canopy surveys within the Missouri 
Ozark Forest Ecosystem Project (MOFEP). Study sites are located in 
southeast Missouri in Reynolds, Shannon and Carter Counties. Work will 
include utilizing field computers and laser range finders to map the tree 
canopy on ½-acre vegetation plots. Work will also include some vegetation 
surveys and other duties as assigned.  Work is scheduled to begin November 
27, 2017 and end mid-May 2018. Applicants should be willing to work 
outdoors in all weather conditions ranging from cold/wet to hot/humid, 
often in rugged terrain. Map reading and orienteering skills are highly 
desired. The ability to drive 4WD vehicles on rugged, narrow roads is 
necessary. Prior experience identifying winter trees is desirable but not 
necessary. Positions pay $10.34/hour.  Housing and work transportation are 
provided.  Application deadline is November 6, 2017 but applications will 
be reviewed as received. Please submit a resume with references and a 
cover letter describing your worst day in the field to: Shannon Ehlers 
(Project Supervisor) shannon.ehl...@mdc.mo.gov. Please use "MOFEP Canopy 
Mapping Technician" in subject line.

[ECOLOG-L] PhD Assistantship, EES Program, Central Michi gan University – Freshwater Mussel Genetics

[Zanatta, David Thomas]

A funded PhD assistantship is available under the supervision of Dr. Dave 
Zanatta in the Earth and Ecosystem Science (EES) program 
(https://www.cmich.edu/colleges/cst/EES/Pages/default.aspx) at Central Michigan 
University.  The project, to be developed and lead by a PhD student, will be to 
compare the genetic variation among wild and captive-bred populations of 
freshwater mussels (Unionidae) leading to the development of genetically sound 
guidelines for propagating imperiled freshwater mussels.  Funding for this 
project is being provided through a partnership with Fisheries and Oceans 
Canada.  A full stipend (combination of research and teaching assistantship) 
and tuition waiver for at least 4 years will be provided.

Before applying to the EES PhD program, please contact Dr. Zanatta 
(zana...@cmich.edu) with a letter of interest 
describing your experience and background, CV, GRE scores, GPA and unofficial 
transcripts.  Decisions on top candidates will be made by late October with 
recommendations to apply to the EES PhD program.

Start date:  January or May 2018

Salary: ~$25,000/yr + tuition waiver

Qualifications:
Required:  BS in Biology or related field (MS strongly preferred); previous 
research experience in aquatic ecology or conservation or aquaculture; 
experience in population/conservation genetics/genomics; strong writing and 
oral communication skills; good quantitative/statistics background; interest in 
pursuing a career in academia or research; GPA >3.0.
Preferred:  MS in Biology or related field; experience with freshwater mussels 
(unionids) and/or fisheries genetics/genomics; track record in publications 
and/or conference presentations; GPA >3.5.

Dave Zanatta, Ph.D.
Professor  |  Biology Department and Institute for Great Lakes Research
Biosciences Bldg. 2408  |  Central Michigan University
1455 Calumet Court  |  Mount Pleasant, MI 48859
P: 989-774-7829  |  E: zana...@cmich.edu  |  F: 989-774-3462
Homepage: people.cst.cmich.edu/zanat1d

[ECOLOG-L] JOB: Assistant or Associate Professor of Wetland Science

[Katie Amatangelo]

The Department of Environmental Science and Ecology at The College at
Brockport – State University of New York seeks an Assistant Professor
(tenure-track) or Associate Professor (tenurable after three years) with
specialization in wetland science. A Ph.D. in wetland science or related
discipline is required; ABD candidates must earn their doctoral degree
within 6 months of hire. Anticipated starting date is August 2018.
Candidates with research interests in wetland science, including plant and
animal communities, hydrology, biogeochemistry, or restoration/ management
are encouraged to apply. This position is a 9-month appointment with
teaching responsibilities (9 to 10 contact hours per semester), including
Wetland Ecology, a follow-up wetland science course, and upper-level courses
in area of expertise (such as restoration ecology, invasive species
management, remote sensing/GIS, or wetland policy/management), as well as
scholarship and service. An active research program involving wetland
ecology, which includes MS/BS student participation, external funding, and
peer-reviewed publications, is expected. Salary and benefits are competitive
and commensurate with experience. Applicants should upload letter of
application, statements of teaching philosophy and research interests, vita,
full contact information for three references, and unofficial transcripts of
degrees earned (BS, MS, PhD) at: http://www.brockportrecruit.org.
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, but review will
begin October 27, 2017; applicants should apply by this date for full
consideration. The College at Brockport, State University of New York is an
AA/EEO/ADA employer. The College actively seeks applications from women,
veterans, individuals with a disability, members of underrepresented groups
or anyone that would enrich the diversity of the College.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate assistantship: Entomology, prairie land use & modeling

[Ferguson, Paige]

Spend time in the field catching cool beetles and moths, learn marketable 
modeling skills, and join the Crimson Tide!

Dr. Paige Ferguson, assistant professor in the Department of Biological 
Sciences at the University of Alabama, is seeking a PhD or MS student to begin 
in Spring, Summer, or Fall 2018.

Research will focus on land use in the Black Belt prairie of Alabama and how it 
relates to the occurrence of beetle and moth species. The student will conduct 
field work at prairie sites in the Black Belt and will conduct analyses with 
statistical models. Anticipated results include information about the 
distribution of beetle and moth species and quantified relationships between 
land use characteristics at multiple spatial scales and species occupancy 
probabilities.

The Black Belt Region is of great interest ecologically and culturally. Land 
use change throughout the nineteenth and twentieth centuries have left less 
than 1% of the native Black Belt prairie. Several beetle and moth species are 
endemic to Black Belt prairies or have disjunct distributions including the 
Midwestern prairies and Black Belt prairies. Both the natural history and human 
history of the Black Belt Region have contributed to current patterns of land 
use and prairie habitat quality. From the mid-1800s to the early 1900s, the 
Black Belt Region was the site of extensive slave-based cotton farming. When 
cotton farming declined, land was often converted to pasture. How land is 
distributed and used contributes to ecosystem health, socio-economic patterns 
among landowners, and social, political, and economic dynamics in the region.

Applicants should have a background in many of the following: ecology, 
environmental science, entomology, GIS, ecological modeling, statistics, 
computer programming, stakeholder outreach, and field work. Applicants should 
be highly motivated and prepared to conduct independent field and modeling 
research.

To apply, please email Dr. Ferguson 
(pffergu...@ua.edu) the following:
1. a cover letter describing your interest in the project and prior experiences 
that have prepared you for graduate work in Dr. Ferguson's lab
2. your undergraduate transcript (an unofficial copy is fine),
3. GRE scores,
4. a sample of your scientific writing (for example a manuscript or lab 
report), and
5. contact information for 3 references.

Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until positions 
are filled.

The position comes with a full tuition waiver, a competitive 12 month stipend, 
and health insurance. Funding is available as a Graduate Teaching Assistant 
through the Department of Biological Sciences. Highly qualified applicants may 
be considered for Graduate School Fellowships, which offer a Research 
Assistantship during the student's first year. Funding for summer field work 
expenses and conference attendance are available.

Additional information is available from the following links:
Dr. Ferguson's Research: http://bsc.ua.edu/paige-ferguson/
Department of Biological Sciences: http://bsc.ua.edu/
Graduate School: http://graduate.ua.edu
University of Alabama: http://www.ua.edu
Tuscaloosa: http://www.tuscaloosa.com/visitor-services
Outdoor opportunities in Alabama: 
http://www.outdooralabama.com



Dr. Paige Ferguson

Assistant Professor, Department of Biological Sciences

The University of Alabama
Bevill 2109C
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405
Phone 205-348-1787
pffergu...@ua.edu | https://bsc.ua.edu/paige-ferguson/

[The University of Alabama] 

[ECOLOG-L] Postdoc position: Rockefeller Foundation Planetary Health Fellowship

[David Inouye]

_Summary: _
With support from The Rockefeller Foundation, the Planetary Health 
Alliance (PHA) at Harvard University has created The Rockefeller 
Foundation Planetary Health (RFPH) Fellows program to enable recent 
doctorate recipients to tackle complex questions at the intersection of 
global environmental change and human health. The Rockefeller Foundation 
Planetary Health Fellows will work for two years with Harvard faculty 
members in any school or department to create new knowledge while also 
strengthening connections across Harvard University and PHA member 
institutions. Special consideration will be given to applicants from PHA 
member institutions interested in cross-fertilizing research efforts by 
spending substantial time at a member institution while being primarily 
based at Harvard.

_
_
_For more information_ on this postdoc position, please visit: 
planetaryhealthalliance.org/postdoc-fellowship 
. 
For inquiries, please e-mail p...@harvard.edu 

[ECOLOG-L] Research assistants at Pacuare Reserve, Costa Rica Volunteer Opportunity

[Rocío Valentín-Gamazo]

*About Ecology Project International: *



EPI is an international non-profit organization dedicated to addressing
critical conservation issues through field-based partnerships between local
experts and high school students. We engage adolescent youth from local
communities and visiting youth from other regions in applied hands-on
science and conservation as they learn about and help protect threatened
species and habitats. Through EPI’s programs in five countries throughout
the U.S. and Latin America, teens are inspired and empowered to engage in
conservation efforts at home and worldwide to become the next generation of
conservation leaders. More information can be found at
www.ecologyproject.org



*About Pacuare Reserve: *



Established in 1989 by a United Kingdom charity, and transferred to Ecology
Project International (EPI) in 2016, its 800 hectares of tropical
rainforest on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica have a high density of
wildlife and its 6km (4 miles) of beach provides the most important nesting
site in the country for the giant leatherback turtles and is home to the
only truly accessible breeding colony of Agami herons in the Caribbean and
northern South America. More information can be found at
www.pacuarereserve.org 



*Job Summary: *

Research Assistants (RA) will be trained in sea turtle monitoring
techniques and will work under the supervision of the Research
Coordinators. RAs will work mainly with adult Leatherback turtles, adult
Green turtles, and Leatherback hatchling.  Some Hawksbills may arrive to
the beach but it’s not very common.  The primary responsibilities of the
RAs will include leading night beach censuses, conducting morning beach
surveys, tagging and collecting data and relocating and excavating nests.

Monitoring activities are carried out along 6 km of nesting beach. RAs will
be in charge of leading volunteers and/or groups of students while on the
beach, explaining the beach protocol and supervising them on the process of
data collection. RAs are expected to participate in other activities
carried out by the Reserve like personal research projects, environmental
education activities, talks and workshops with students and volunteers,
beach cleaning, recycling projects, or other needs of the station. RAs are
expected to work long hours throughout day and/or night, often with little
sleep. Beach censuses require walking on soft sand and occasionally under
the rain, therefore, a good physical condition is a requirement for the RA
position.



*Qualifications: *



*Required:*

·   Graduates of or close to graduating in Biology, Environmental
science or a related field

·   Able to communicate both in Spanish and in English

·   In good physical condition and able to walk long hours on soft
sand, sometimes under difficult conditions

·   Be motivated to work in a remote environment under difficult
conditions (rain, mosquitoes…) with irregular sleeping hours and restricted
electricity availability.

·   Be open-minded, flexible and keep a positive attitude to unexpected
situations and be willing to live and work with a small group of people


*Preferred: *

·   Previous experiences working with sea turtles

·   Previous experience working and living in Costa Rica, specially in
the Caribbean coast

·   Previous experience working in a multicultural team, since RAs come
from different nationalities and they will be working with the local staff



*Schedule and Location:*

February 20 to July 31, 2018. Pacuare Reserve, North Caribbean coast, Costa
Rica



*Compensation:*



RA Positions are voluntary and selected candidates are expected to plan and
finance their own travel to and from the Reserve. RAs will receive 3 meals
a day and basic shared accommodations for the duration of their time
working for Pacuare Reserve.





*Questions can be directed to:*



Rocío Valentín-Gamazo, *rocio.valentin-gam...@ecologyproject.org
*



*To apply*:

Application period closes November 5th; they will be reviewed when
received. Applications can only be submitted electronically. Please, submit
the following information in the next page:



https://ecologyproject.submittable.com/submit/9e954a04-91f5-4c16-9f91-b59bd04cecb9/research-assistant-pacuare-reserve



-A CV or resume with pertinent information

-A cover letter explaining why you are interested in the Research Assistant
position, details of any relevant experiences and a statement of your level
of proficiency in English and Spanish

-Name and email contact of one to three professional references

[ECOLOG-L] PhD Fellowship Opportunity in Terrestrail C Biogeochemistry - UPenn

[Alain Plante]

The Terrestrial Biogeochemistry Laboratory in the Department of Earth and
Environmental Science of the University of Pennsylvania invites applicants
for competitive Ph.D. fellowships in one of two research areas: Soil carbon
biogeochemistry: Projects seek to quantify and characterize the recalcitrant
pools of pyrogenic and geogenic carbon in soils. We’ll examine chemical
transformations and dissolution as mechanisms controlling their fate in the
critical zone. Urban biogeochemistry: New and evolving research projects to
study the biogeochemical functioning of urban ecosystems with emphasis on
cycling and storage of carbon and nutrients. Positions are ideal for
candidates who have completed an MSc in soil science, geosciences,
environmental chemistry, ecosystem science or related fields, but
outstanding BSc graduates in such programs will be considered. For further
information, please contact Dr. Alain Plante by email
(apla...@sas.upenn.edu) or consult the department website
(http://www.sas.upenn.edu/earth). Applications can be submitted directly
online (https://www.applyweb.com/upenng/) before December 15.

[ECOLOG-L] Ph.D. opportunities: New Natures and Mountain Landscapes

[David Inouye]

The Mountain Legacy Project  (MLP; 
mountainlegacy.ca), based at the School of Environmental Studies at the 
University of Victoria, Canada, invites applications for one or two PhD 
positions on our “New Natures and Mountain Landscapes” project starting 
in 2018.


The MLP is working with the world’s largest collection of comparative 
(before and after) mountain photographs—120,000 historical images taken 
throughout the Western Canadian mountains in the early 1900s, and 7,000+ 
repeat images gathered through intensive fieldwork over the last two 
decades—and used them to examine social and ecological change across the 
region. Our research has shown that the degree of change in these 
landscapes over the past century is staggering. Multiple social and 
ecological factors have intersected to radically and quickly transform 
these landscapes into what have become known as “new natures”—ecosystems 
and landscapes that depart significantly from historical patterns and 
processes. As new natures become increasingly widespread, environmental 
scholars, policy specialists, and land managers face complicated 
decisions and difficult trade-offs when they study and plan for possible 
interventions, including restoration. Processes such as fire, flooding, 
pathogens, species invasions and range shifts, and shifting human uses 
open up implications for long-term responsibilities and actions.


To explore a typical image pair online, please visit the Explorer 
. 
The link will take you to an image pair taken from Wilcox Ridge No. 1 
survey station by Arthur Wheeler in 1918 as part of the Interprovincial 
Boundary Survey between British Columbia and Alberta. The repeat image 
taken by Mountain Legacy Project field teams in 2011 shows dramatic 
recession in the Athabasca glacier, one of the most visited and iconic 
in the Columbia Icefield of the Canadian Rockies. The historic images 
are comprehensive, systematic, and high resolution, making them a 
significant research resource.


Our new phase of research will focus on the drivers and patterns of 
rapid change and explore models to guide decisions about human action in 
response to new natures. *We are looking for PhD students to join the 
team and lead our efforts to:*


(1) map new natures in mountain landscapes, using our extensive image 
collection to identify and map regions along the Eastern Slope of the 
Rocky Mountains in Alberta where ecological change appears to be outside 
an expected historical range of variability.


(2) pioneer innovative decision models for appropriate human 
intervention in these new natures, building on strategic foresight tools 
and working with a wide network of actors involved in decision-making in 
the Eastern Slopes of Alberta to consider a range of possible, probable, 
or desirable futures.


Prospective students should hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field 
(environmental studies, ecology, geography, forestry, etc) with 
experience in restoration, historical ecology, landscape ecology, 
conservation decision-making, or relevant social sciences. Good writing 
skills, and strong experience with analytical, problem-solving, 
lateral-thinking, interdisciplinary research are required. Experience 
with computationally demanding problems, software development, 
programming, or GIS are assets, as is previous experience working with 
local communities.



Direct funding for PhD students would be $21,000/year for up to three 
years, with possibilities for teaching assistantships and additional 
grant support. Of course, we welcome students who have secured external 
funding already, in which case our grant funds can provide a combination 
of top-ups, field/equipment funding, and research assistance. We will 
also welcome master’s students to the research team, but funding is more 
likely to come from other sources.



You will be based in UVic’s School of Environmental Studies, under the 
supervision of Dr. Eric Higgs with potential co-supervision by Dr. 
Jeanine Rhemtulla or Dr. Tara Martin at the University of British 
Columbia in Vancouver, who are co-investigators on the project. There is 
a January 15, 2018 admissions deadline at UVic for a May or September 
(preferred) 2018 program, and it is important to establish a strong 
thematic and intellectual fit with research program and the School of 
Environmental Studies well in advance.



If interested, please email eric.hi...@uvic.ca with the subject line 
“New Natures and Mountain Landscapes PhD enquiry” no later than October 
31, 2017. Please provide: (1) a description of your background; research 
interests and fit; (2) your CV; and (3) unofficial transcript(s) of 
previous degrees (please bundle these together as a single PDF file). ​



​

[ECOLOG-L] Recycling in any place that alleges recycles (e.g. colleges, universities, high schools, etc.)

[Jorge A. Santiago-Blay]

Recycling in any place that alleges recycles (e.g. colleges, universities,
high schools, etc.)

Dear Colleagues:

A few weeks ago, I posted a request for cases of (alleged) recycling in
colleges and universities where the recyclables are actually *not* recycled
(e.g., turned in with the regular trash and/or incinerated). Now, having
received an indication of a high school that "recycles" and the recyclables
are turned in with the regular trash, I would like to expand this request
to include any place on Earth that alleges recycles (e.g. colleges,
universities, high schools, etc.) and does not.

Please, email me at blayjo...@gmail.com

Apologies for potential duplicate emails.

In gratefulness,

Jorge

Jorge A. Santiago-Blay, PhD
blaypublishers.com

1. Positive experiences for authors of papers published in *LEB*
http://blaypublishers.com/testimonials/

2. Free examples of papers published in *LEB*:
http://blaypublishers.com/category/previous-issues/.

3. *Guidelines for Authors* and page charges of *LEB*:
http://blaypublishers.com/archives/ *.*

4. Want to subscribe to *LEB*? http://blaypublishers.com/subscriptions/


http://blayjorge.wordpress.com/
http://paleobiology.si.edu/staff/individuals/santiagoblay.cfm

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate student in intertidal food-web ecology (bird focused)

[Hamish Greig]

Drs. Brian Olsen and Amanda Klemmer (UMaine) are looking for a M.S. student to 
investigate the 
community and food-web ecology of intertidal, rockweed-dominated (Ascophyllum & 
Fucus spp.) 
habitats in light of commercial rockweed harvesting.  The candidate is expected 
to begin their 
assistantship in Orono, Maine in January 2018.  In conjunction with partners at 
the Maine Department of 
Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the National 
Park Service, and Maine 
Maritime Academy, the project’s objective is to assess linkages between 
rockweed, the invertebrate 
community, and coastal bird populations in a changing, multi-use landscape.  
The position will involve 
coastal bird surveys, assistance in Purple Sandpiper capture on rocky marine 
islands during the winter, 
and discussions with a consortium of stakeholders to identify and address 
questions regarding 
rockweed as a resource for humans and wildlife.

The successful candidate will possess a strong academic record, field 
experience, and the ability to 
identify coastal birds of the Atlantic shore of North America.  Preference will 
be given to candidates with 
experience supervising field crews; building partnerships with industry, 
governmental agencies, non-
profits, and public stakeholders; managing databases; identifying intertidal 
invertebrates; and 
constructing statistical models (or interest in gaining such an experience).  
An enthusiasm for cold 
temperatures, wet feet, curious landowners, the bold beauty of the Maine coast, 
and other blessings of 
field work is required.

Interested candidates should send an email with the subject line “Intertidal 
Food-Web Student Search” 
to brian.ol...@maine.edu with the following materials attached: cover letter, 
curriculum vitae, unofficial 
transcript, GRE scores, and contact information for three references.  
Consideration of candidates will 
begin on October 15th until the position is filled.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate student in intertidal food-web ecology (invertebrate focused)

[Hamish Greig]

Drs. Amanda Klemmer and Brian Olsen (UMaine) are looking for a M.S. student to 
investigate the 
community and food-web ecology of intertidal, rockweed-dominated (Ascophyllum & 
Fucus spp.) 
habitats in light of commercial rockweed harvesting.  The candidate is expected 
to begin their 
assistantship in Orono, Maine in January 2018.  In conjunction with partners at 
the Maine Department of 
Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the National 
Park Service, and Maine 
Maritime Academy the project’s objective is to assess linkages between 
rockweed, the invertebrate 
community, and coastal bird populations in a changing, multi-use landscape.  
The position will involve 
coastal invertebrate/rockweed surveys, bird exclosure experiments on rocky 
marine islands during the 
winter, and discussions with a consortium of stakeholders to identify and 
address questions regarding 
rockweed as a resource for humans and wildlife.

The successful candidate will possess a strong academic record, field 
experience, and the ability to 
identify/work with invertebrates of the rocky intertidal.  Preference will be 
given to candidates with 
experience supervising field crews; building partnerships with industry, 
governmental agencies, non-
profits, and public stakeholders; managing databases; identifying coastal 
birds; and constructing 
statistical models (or interest in gaining such an experience).  An enthusiasm 
for cold temperatures, wet 
feet, curious landowners, the bold beauty of the Maine coast, and other 
blessings of field work is 
required.

Interested candidates should send an email with the subject line “Intertidal 
Food-Web Student Search” 
to amanda.klem...@maine.edu with the following materials attached: cover 
letter, curriculum vitae, 
unofficial transcript, GRE scores, and contact information for three 
references.  Consideration of 
candidates will begin on October 15th until the position is filled.

[ECOLOG-L] Assistant Professor in Ecology/Evolutionary Biology at St. Vincent College, Latrobe, PA

[Pete Smyntek]

Saint Vincent College Biology Department seeks a broadly-trained individual
to fill a tenure-track position in Ecology/Evolutionary Biology. Competitive
candidates will have expertise in one of the following areas: insect-plant
interactions, plant ecology, plant-animal interactions, or invertebrate
ecology. Experience with GIS will be considered a plus. The successful
candidate will teach lecture and lab courses for Biology and Environmental
Science majors in Ecology and Evolution and courses for non-majors in
addition to supervising research through the Senior Research Program.

More information and application guidelines can be found at this site:
http://www.stvincent.edu/about/work-for-svc

[ECOLOG-L] Ph.D. opportunities in Environmental Studies at UC Santa Cruz

[Kai Zhu]

Dr. Kai Zhu is recruiting 1-2 Ph.D. students starting in Fall 2018 in the 
Department of Environmental 
Studies at the University of California, Santa Cruz.

The Zhu Lab works on a broad range of questions in global ecology and 
quantitative environmental 
sciences, at the intersection of climate change, biodiversity, and ecosystem 
processes. Current research 
projects include large-scale responses to climate change in forests, long-term 
global change impacts on 
grasslands, land surface phenology from remote sensing, and soil fungi and 
trees in changing 
environments. More information is available at https://zhulab.ucsc.edu/.

Students are encouraged to develop their own projects, which is an important 
part of their development 
as independent and creative researchers. Dr. Zhu expects students to have 
previous research 
experience and some math/statistics and programming skills. However, in the Zhu 
Lab students will learn 
new methods and tools by working on projects, so the most important quality is 
the willingness to learn 
new skills.

The Ph.D. program in Environmental Studies is explicitly interdisciplinary, 
with expectations to engage in 
both natural and social sciences coursework and research. The department 
guarantees five years of 
stipend and fee support for graduate students. UC Santa Cruz ranks third 
worldwide for research 
influence (https://news.ucsc.edu/2017/09/times-higher-ed.html) and is located 
on the Monterey Bay, a 
national marine sanctuary, with numerous year-round opportunities for outdoor 
recreation (sailing, 
surfing, mountain bike riding, hiking, etc.). For information about program 
requirements, funding, and 
admissions, please consult the graduate program coordinator Lisa Birney 
(831-459-4136 or lmbirney at 
ucsc dot edu), the department website 
(https://envs.ucsc.edu/graduate/prospective-grads/index.html), 
and the Graduate School website 
(https://graddiv.ucsc.edu/prospective-students/index.html).

Interested students should contact Dr. Kai Zhu (kai dot zhu at ucsc dot edu) 
before the admission 
deadline on December 15, 2017 with the following information: (1) research 
experience, ideas, and 
questions; (2) motivations to pursue a Ph.D. and ultimate career goals; (3) 
interests in the Environmental 
Studies Department at UCSC; and (4) current CV, academic transcript, GRE score, 
and TOEFL score (if 
English is not the first language).

[ECOLOG-L] Forests Awards

[David Inouye]

Dear Colleagues,

As Editor-in-Chief of the open access journal, /Forests/, I am pleased 
to announce the initiation of the annual /Forests/ Awards.


*Two* Travel Awards for postdocs or PhD students consisting of *CHF 800* 
/ USD 850 / EUR 700 each will be awarded to attend a forestry related 
conference.


Eligibility:

 * The candidate must be enrolled as a full-time PhD student or a
   post-doctoral researcher (10 years or less since earning the PhD).
 * The candidate must be registered to attend and present an oral talk
   or poster at an international forestry conference/congress (e.g.,
   IUFRO, Soil Science Society of America, Society of American
   Foresters...).

 Candidates’ Requirements:

1. Submit a resume/CV.
2. The nominee should include a brief summary (one page) of their
   research interests, accomplishments, and expected benefits from
   attending the conference/congress.
3. A letter of support from their supervisor is required and should
   include:

 o Confirmation that the nominee is a PhD or post-doctoral student,
   describe the overall strengths of the candidate and eligibility
   for the travel award; and confirm that they will present an oral
   talk/poster at the conference.
 o Relevance and expected benefits of the nominee’s attendance at
   the conference.

4. The entire application package should be submitted as a PDF file.

Please send your applications for these awards to the /Forests/ 
Editorial Office at fore...@mdpi.com  by *31 
December 2017*. The Awards will be granted by the end of February 2018.


*Prof. Dr. Timothy A. Martin*

/Editor-in-Chief/
School of Forest Resources and Conservation, PO Box 110410, University 
of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, 32611-0410, USA


/Forests/ 
//(ISSN 
1999-4907), Impact Factor 1.953 (Q1). For more information on /Forests/ 
/,/ 
please visit our website: www.mdpi.com/journal/forests 

[ECOLOG-L] University of Sussex -- Teaching Fellow in Evolution, Behaviour and Ecology

[Jorn Scharlemann]

Teaching Fellow, Evolution, Behaviour and Ecology
School/department: School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
Hours: Full time (job share / part time possible).
Contract: Fixed Term, 2 years.
Reference:  2572
Salary: starting at £32,548 and rising to £38,833 per annum
Closing date:  16 October 2017.  Applications must be received by midnight of 
the closing date.
Expected start date: 1 November 2017 or soon thereafter
Full details 
http://www.sussex.ac.uk/about/jobs/teaching-fellow-evolution-behaviour-ecolo-ref-2572

Job description
The School of Life Sciences at the University of Sussex seeks to appoint an 
outstanding individual or individuals to deliver innovative teaching in the 
area of ecology and conservation biology.

The appointment is for two years, to cover the teaching of Prof Dave Goulson 
plus additional teaching in the area of ecology and conservation from 1st year 
undergraduate to Master's level.

The School is at the forefront of research in the biological sciences in the 
UK, coming in the top 10 in the REF 2014, with an impressive profile across a 
broad range of subjects; particular strengths include Conservation Biology, 
Evolutionary Biology, Neuroscience, and Genome Damage and Stability

Potential candidates are encouraged make informal contact with Professor 
Goulson (d.goul...@sussex.ac.uk), or the Head of 
the School of Life Sciences, Professor Sarah Guthrie  
(s.guth...@sussex.ac.uk).

The School is committed to equality and valuing diversity, and currently holds 
an Athena SWAN Silver Award. Applications are particularly welcomed from women 
and black and minority ethnic candidates, who are under-represented in academic 
posts in science and engineering at Sussex.

The School of Life Sciences welcomes applications to academic posts from 
candidates who wish to work part-time or as job-sharers.

The University offers various schemes to provide real benefits to parents, 
these can be found at Family Friendly Policies

Full details 
http://www.sussex.ac.uk/about/jobs/teaching-fellow-evolution-behaviour-ecolo-ref-2572

Best wishes
Jorn

Jörn P W Scharlemann PhD
Professor of Conservation Science
School of Life Sciences
University of Sussex
Brighton BN1 9QG
UK

T +44 (0)1273 873502
S scharlemann
http://www.sussex.ac.uk/lifesci/scharlemannlab/

[ECOLOG-L] University of Maryland Entomology: 2 Tenure Track Ecology positions

[Dan Gruner]

The University of Maryland, College Park seeks applications for two (2) 
faculty positions in the Department of Entomology. We particularly 
encourage applications from those with interests in climate change, 
invasive species, forestry or urban forestry.  For best consideration 
apply by Dec 1, 2017.  Application information at: 



/The University of Maryland, College Park, an equal 
opportunity/affirmative action employer.  Applications from women and 
minorities are particularly sought./

[ECOLOG-L] Grad Student Openings in Macroecology, Macrophysiology, Macroevoution

[Gillooly,Jamie]

Grad Student Openings in Macrophysiology, Macroecology, Macroevolution

The Gillooly Lab in the Department of Biology at the University of Florida has 
openings and support for 1-2 graduate students beginning in Fall 2017. Research 
in the lab is diverse, but can be described as macro-scale biology (i.e., 
macroecology, macroevolution, macrophysiology)

We seek an integrative view of how the structure and function of 
individuals/species are related to the structure and function of populations, 
communities and ecosystems.Lab members develop independent research programs 
using a variety of approaches, including mathematical modeling, experimentation 
and field studies. Above all else, we seek students that are creative, curious, 
collaborative, and open to combining theory with data. More information about 
the lab is available at https://people.clas.ufl.edu/gillooly/

Prospective students should contact Dr. Jamie Gillooly by email (gillooly "at" 
ufl.edu) to inquire. The deadline for application is December 1, and more 
information regarding the application may be found at: 
https://biology.ufl.edu/graduate/application/.