[ECOLOG-L] Quantitative Fishery Scientist position

[Seth White]

The Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission assists its four governing 
tribes (Yakama, Umatilla, Warm Springs, and Nez Perce) with management of their 
treaty fishing rights. A key to ensuring our member tribes have a sustainable 
fishery is the ability to collect and assess information on the status of 
anadromous and resident fish populations and their habitats within the diverse 
watersheds of the Columbia Basin. The position offered is a Quantitative 
Fishery Scientist in the Fishery Science Department’s Watershed Ecology group. 

The Watershed Ecology group evaluates the combined impacts to fish populations 
from land management and restoration efforts in context of natural variability 
and climate change. The group develops landscape-scale analyses linking 
watershed conditions to riverine habitat conditions; relates habitat conditions 
to life stage-specific abundance, capacity, or survival of salmonids; and uses 
these analyses as inputs to life cycle models. The group additionally applies 
remotely-sensed technology to fish habitat surveys, evaluates the role of food 
webs on juvenile salmon productivity, and assesses river ecosystems using 
various other approaches.

The Quantitative Fishery Scientist will develop and apply quantitative 
approaches to evaluating factors limiting salmonid populations in a range of 
habitats, from headwater tributaries to the mainstem Columbia River. The 
incumbent must demonstrate strong quantitative skills and experience in 
advanced data analysis including population modeling, maintain a proven 
publication record, and possess exceptional problem solving and communication 
skills.

All qualified individuals including women, veterans, minorities and individuals 
with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Hiring preference will be given to 
qualified enrolled members of federally recognized tribes and Alaskan Natives, 
especially to enrolled members of the four CRITFC member tribes.

For details about the position duties, minimum qualifications, and application 
instructions, visit 
https://www.critfc.org/blog/jobs/quantitative-fishery-scientist/

[ECOLOG-L] Ecological Forecasting Summer Course

[Dietze, Michael]

Summer Course:
Ecological Forecasting
July 28th-Aug 2nd, 2019
@ Boston University

As part of the NSF-funded Near-term Ecological Forecasting Initiative this 
course targets graduate students, post-docs, and early career agency and 
academic scientists interested in learning about ecological forecasting in a 
variety of contexts. This course is adapted from the recently published 
Ecological Forecasting book by 
Dr. Michael Dietze and will highlight iterative forecasting approaches.

Topics include Bayesian statistics (simple models, hierarchical Bayes, 
state-space models, etc); fusing multiple data sources; forecast uncertainty 
propagation & assessment; iterative data assimilation; machine learning; 
decision science; and a range of ecological forecasting applications such as 
phenology, microbiomes, carbon, infectious disease, and aquatic productivity.


Applications are due February 15th, 2019.
Visit https://ecoforecast.wordpress.com/summer-course/ for information on 
applying.

[ECOLOG-L] Two postdoc positions at Oak Ridge National Lab: Soil organic matter modeling and root data synthesis

[Ben Sulman]

The Terrestrial Ecosystem Science group at Oak Ridge National Laboratory is
seeking applications for two postdoctoral research positions:

*1. Synthesizing, building, and testing alternate process assumptions
within a model of soil organic matter dynamics.*
https://jobs.ornl.gov/job/Oak-Ridge-Postdoctoral-Research-Associate-Multi-Assumption-Soil-Modeling-TN-37831/520379400/

Understanding soil organic matter dynamics in ecosystems is challenged by
the by plethora of alternative hypotheses represented among existing
decomposition models. The Ecosystem Science group at ORNL (Advisor: Anthony
Walker, Co-Advisors: Ben Sulman, Melanie Mayes) is seeking a post-doctoral
research candidate for an exciting new opportunity to synthesize process
knowledge and computational models to further understand the sources of
variability and uncertainty in our understanding of soil organic matter
decomposition. A major component of the role will be to:

Develop a model of soil organic matter dynamics within the Multi-Assumption
Architecture and Testbed (MAAT, https://github.com/walkeranthonyp/MAAT), a
state-of-the-art modeling code that embraces uncertainty related to
multiple hypotheses and alternate model structures.

A starting point will be the Microbial Enzyme Decomposition (MEND) model
and E3SM Land Model (ELM) soil decomposition schemes, with the expectation
to investigate additional alternative process assumptions.

The role is intended to be flexible to allow you to explore your interests
within the context of investigating alternative models of soil organic
matter dynamics. You will be joining a diverse team of ecosystem ecologists
using empirical and modeling tools, working at the cutting edge of
above-and-below-ground biogeochemical interactions. You will have the
opportunity to travel and work with a number of world-class partner
research groups.

Qualities essential for the position are:

   - Passion for understanding the natural world
   - Advanced programming skills in R
   - Research experience in soil organic matter dynamics or biogeochemistry
   - Excellent written and oral communication
   - A demonstrated ability to publish in peer-reviewed journals
   - Self-motivation and goal setting
   - Ability to work as a team player
   - PhD in ecology, soil-science, or related field

 Desirable skills are:

   - Experience in sensitivity analysis and uncertainty quantification
   statistical techniques
   - Experience developing terrestrial ecosystem models
   - Programming skills in FORTRAN
   - Experience developing environmental or biogeochemical models from
   scratch


*2. Synthesizing data and building models to understand tropical forest
resource acquisition, use, and allocation; with a focus below ground.*

https://jobs.ornl.gov/job/Oak-Ridge-Postdoctoral-Research-Associate-Tropical-Root-Allocation-and-Function-TN-37831/520369500

Understanding resource acquisition, use, and allocation remains challenged
by a lack of root related data, especially in tropical forests. Roots are
fundamental for plant resource acquisition and survival, yet datasets are
scarce and scattered across research groups. The Ecosystem Science group at
ORNL (Advisor: Anthony Walker) and the multi-lab Next Generation Ecosystem
Experiment (NGEE) - Tropics are seeking a post-doctoral research candidate
for an exciting new opportunity to synthesize knowledge and data with key
partners to further understand the role of roots in tropical forest
resource acquisition, use, and allocation. A major component of the role
will be:

   - Synthesis and analysis of root and other data from key partners in the
   ForestGEO (https://forestgeo.si.edu/) and GEM (
   http://gem.tropicalforests.ox.ac.uk/) networks to help inform the
   development and evaluation of resource acquisition and allocation modules
   in the new Functionally Assembled Terrestrial Ecosystem Simulator (FATES).

The role is intended to be flexible to allow the successful candidate to
explore her or his interests within the scope of the role. Possible
research areas include:

   - Development of empirical and conceptual models of tropical forest
   resource acquisition, use, and allocation
   - Developing methods to scale function from individual roots to
   ecosystems

You will be joining a diverse team of empirical and modeling ecosystem
ecologists, working at the cutting edge of above-and-below-ground resource
interactions. The role will involve the opportunity to travel and work with
many world-class partner research groups.

 Qualities essential for the position are:

   - Passion for understanding the natural world
   - Excellent written and oral communication
   - Excellent inter-personal skills
   - Willingness to travel on a regular basis
   - A demonstrated ability to publish in quality peer-reviewed journals
   - Self-motivation and goal setting
   - Ability to work as a team player
   - PhD in ecology, botany, or related field earned within the last five
   years
   - E

[ECOLOG-L] Online Urban Biodiversity Course at University of Missouri - second offering

[Nilon, Charles H.]

Online Urban Biodiversity Course



Interested in urban biodiversity conservation and planning? Want to hear from 
experts from around the world? Take our online course, earn credit from the 
University of Missouri. You can even apply for free tuition, brought to you by 
UrBioNet: A network for urban biodiversity research and practice. See more 
information including the course description and instructor list below. Course 
runs from January 22 - May 9, 2019.



Register here: 
https://online.missouri.edu/course-search/coursedetail.aspx?cid=311339&sid=334854



Any questions? Email Dr. Charles Nilon at nil...@missouri.edu



Nat_R 8001. Topics in Natural Resources (Urban Biodiversity, Conservation, 
Planning)



Course Format:

This is an online course using the Mizzou Online Semester-Based Format.  The 
course is divided into three, 4 to 5 week modules. Each module has 4-5 topics. 
Within each topic, there will be voice-over powerpoint presentations by an 
expert in the field to introduce the topic, 2-3 assigned readings from the 
peer-reviewed literature, an exercise, and review/discussion questions. 
Students have 2 weeks to complete each topic, with online interaction with the 
instructors.



Module Presenters:

Myla Aronson (Rutgers University)

Christine Brodsky (Pittsburg State University)

Sarel Cilliers (North West University)

Mark Goddard (Leeds University)

Amy Hahs (University of Melbourne)

Cecilia Herzog (Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro)

Madhusudan Katti (North Carolina State University)

Frank La Sorte (Cornell University)

Chris Lepczyk (Auburn University)

Tommy Parker (University of Memphis)

Paige Warren (University of Massachusetts-Amherst)

Nick Williams (University of Melbourne)

Wayne Zipperer (USDA Forest Service Southern Research Station)

--
Charlie Nilon
School of Natural Resources
302 ABNR
University of Missouri
Columbia, MO 65211-7240
Phone: 573-882-3738
https://cafnr.missouri.edu/person/charles-nilon/

[ECOLOG-L] 3yr Postdoc position in Conservation Solutions Lab at the University of Northern British Columbia

[Oscar Venter]

Reposting*  Review of applications will begin 1 January 2019, and will continue 
until the position is filled.

The Conservation Solutions Lab at the University of Northern British Columbia 
seeks a postdoctoral fellow for a NASA funded project mapping change in Human 
Footprint at global and regional scales, linking this change to biodiversity 
impacts.

The project team involves investigators from University of Northern British 
Columbia (Oscar Venter), Wildlife Conservation Society (James Watson), Montana 
State University (Andrew Hansen), Arizona State University (Scott Goetz and 
Patrick Jantz, NASA (Cindy Schmidt) and the United Nations Development Program 
(Jamison Ervin). The results of this project will inform progress toward the 
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in three partner countries (Columbia, 
Peru, Ecuador).

The postdoc will join the Conservation Solutions Lab for three years, 
contributing to the project by updating and downscaling the global human 
footprint map 
(http://news.nationalgeographic.com/2016/08/human-footprint-map-ecological-impact/)
 with the latest and regional datasets, as well as investigating empirical 
links between biodiversity trends and measures of the Human Footprint and 
forest integrity. Lots of opportunities will be available for additional 
projects on related topics, as well as supervising graduate students with 
overlapping interests. 

Ideal candidates will have a passion for biodiversity conservation and a desire 
to contribute to real world conservation outcomes, as well as enjoy working as 
part of a team in a collaborative setting. In addition to a background in the 
ecological sciences, the successful candidate will have some combination of 
skills in: computer science, programming, statistics and R, working with big 
data, high level GIS. The candidate will apply advanced spatial and modeling 
techniques to work with large datasets, and should have a background to suit.

Position details: Salary is $55K CND/year, term is 3 years, based in Prince 
George BC, Canada.

To apply, email a cover letter, CV, and contact details for three references in 
a single pdf file to Dr. Oscar Venter at oscar.venter@ unbc. ca. For questions, 
contact  Dr Venter.

Review of applications will begin 1 January 2019, and will continue until the 
position is filled.

Keen applicants will first review our recent work here:
https://scholar.google.ca/citations?hl=en&user=Ih5f79MJ&view_op=list_works&sortby=pubdate

And can check out our current people and projects here:
http://oscarventer.net/people/

[ECOLOG-L] JOB: Assistant Professor - Genetics (Tenure-track)

[Daniella Prince]

*The Department of Biology at the University of Louisville
(http://louisville.edu/biology ) invites
applications for a tenure-track position in the area of Genetics at the
Assistant Professor level to begin August 2019*.  We are particularly
interested in individuals with research in the broad areas of Genetics and
Cell Biology, using modern molecular genetic approaches to investigate a
variety of questions across the biological spectrum; we also encourage
candidates who can take advantage of collaborative opportunities in the
Department and on-campus.  The successful candidate is expected to
contribute to the department's teaching mission in large-enrollment Biology
core courses (Genetics and Molecular Biology and/or Cellular and Molecular
Biology) and upper-level or graduate-level course(s) in the area of
interest of the candidate.  Moreover, the candidate must maintain an
excellent record of research productivity and external funding. The
position requires postdoctoral research experience, a solid publication
record, and demonstration of high potential for maintaining an externally
funded, independent research program.

The University of Louisville strives to foster and sustain an environment
of inclusiveness that empowers us all to achieve our highest potential
without fear of prejudice or bias. We commit ourselves to building an
exemplary educational community that offers a nurturing and challenging
intellectual climate, a respect for the spectrum of human diversity, and a
genuine understanding of the many differences that enrich a vibrant
metropolitan research university. We expect every member of our academic
family to embrace the underlying values of this vision and to demonstrate a
strong commitment to attracting, retaining, and supporting students,
faculty, and staff who reflect the diversity of our larger society. The
University of Louisville is an equal opportunity, affirmative action
employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all
qualified applicants without regard to race, sex, age, color, national
origin, ethnicity, creed, religion, disability, genetic information, sexual
orientation, gender, gender identity and expression, marital status,
pregnancy, or veteran status.

*Apply*: Interested candidates must apply online and attach one document
containing a curriculum vita that includes statements of research and
teaching interests and contact information for three references. Review of
applications will begin January 7, 2019, and continue until the position is
filled. Link: https://www.higheredjobs.com/details.cfm?JobCode=176866711

(or
go to http://higheredjobs.com
 and search "36235")
If you are unable to use our online application process due to an
impairment or disability, please contact the Employment team at
employm...@louisville.edu or 502.852.6258.

[ECOLOG-L] Postdoctoral position

[Ines Ibanez]

Postdoctoral position: Impacts of Socio-Ecological Adaptation to Global Change 
on Forest Ecosystems 
School for Environment and Sustainability
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor 

We are seeking one postdoctoral researcher to join our interdisciplinary 
collaboration on assessing synergistic effects of global change and human 
adaptation behavior on forests. The postdoctoral researcher and PIs will work 
together to (1) synthesize existing social and natural science research and (2) 
model impacts of land managers’ behavioral responses to environmental stressors 
on forest ecosystems’ trajectories under global environmental change. We will 
leverage research and data from the work of the two PIs in both forest dynamics 
under global change and land management responses to local stressors. PI 
Fischer has carried out extensive work on land managers’ perceptions and 
behaviors regarding forest stressors, including wildfire and forest pests. PI 
Ibáñez has 10 years of tree species demographic data collected across 
environmental and urbanization gradients and has developed multiple models of 
tree species performance under environmental change. We propose to combine our 
data and expertise into a coupled natural-human system (CNHS) model to generate 
scenarios of forest dynamics under a variety of environmental and managerial 
conditions in the Upper Midwest.

Start date: April 1, 2019 (flexible)
Term: 2 years 1.00 FTE
Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan
Salary: $49,000 (benefits eligible) 
Institution: School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS), University of 
Michigan

The candidate should be an interdisciplinary researcher with a PhD in ecology, 
geography, natural resources, environmental science or a similar field. The 
candidate should have:

•   Background in forest systems from an ecological and/or social science 
disciplines 
•   Experience with quantitative coupled natural-human systems modeling

The hire will join an interdisciplinary team studying human behavior and 
environmental change in temperate forest systems 
https://sites.google.com/umich.edu/fischerresearchgroup and 
https://sites.google.com/a/umich.edu/ines-ibanez.

To apply, please submit the following in a single PDF file to Dr. Paige Fischer 
at apfi...@umich.edu and Dr. Inés Ibáñez iiba...@umich.edu:

•   Cover letter describing your relevant experience and scholarly interests
•   Curriculum vitae
•   Relevant publications
•   References

Applications will be considered until the position is filled. 

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity employer.

[ECOLOG-L] Job: Botany/Birding Technicians Summer 2019, Oregon

[Graham Frank]

The Landscape Fire and Conservation Science Research Group (LCRSG) at Oregon 
State University is hiring 3-4 field research technicians to assist with data 
collection on a landscape scale retrospective study examining biodiversity 
responses to wildfire, salvage logging, and intensive forest management in the 
Klamath ecoregion of southwest Oregon during summer 2019.

Early seral pre-forest habitats created by stand-replacing disturbances are 
increasingly recognized for their critical role in supporting a diverse suite 
of birds, plants, pollinators, and other taxa. The Klamath ecoregion is a 
globally recognized biodiversity hotspot, home to one of the world’s most 
diverse temperate coniferous forests. A patchwork of public and private 
ownership in the region presents a unique opportunity to directly compare the 
biodiversity of early seral habitats generated by high severity wildfire, fire 
followed by salvage logging, and management practices associated with 
industrial plantation forestry.  

Technicians will be involved in data collection on avian, pollinator, and plant 
communities and vegetation structure. We are particularly seeking individuals 
with a high degree of expertise in plant identification or avian point count 
techniques, ideally in early seral environments and/or in southwest Oregon. 
Housing will be provided in nearby Roseburg, Canyonville, or Grants Pass and 
compensation will range from $13.05 - $18.55 per hour, commensurate with 
experience. We anticipate a start date of 4/23/19, extending through the end of 
August, but start dates can be somewhat flexible to accommodate academic 
calendars or other particularities of individual schedules.

For more information and to submit an application, please follow this link 
https://jobs.oregonstate.edu/postings/69368. For full consideration, please 
apply by January 6, 2019. After this date, we will continue to accept 
applications until all positions have been filled. Questions can be directed to 
Graham Frank (graham [dot] frank [at] oregonstate.edu) or Meg Krawchuk (meg 
[dot] krawchuk [at] oregonstate.edu).

The LCRSG focuses on research in landscape ecology, biogeography, and 
conservation at scales ranging from local to global, with the specific aim of 
addressing the causes and consequences of ecological disturbances. More 
information on our group can be found here: 
http://people.forestry.oregonstate.edu/meg-krawchuk/lab

[ECOLOG-L] R course-online/distance

[Rebecca Shell Kanarek]

Happy Thanksgiving to all,

If anyone is aware of any beginning or advanced beginners coursework in R, 
preferably geared for ecology/environmental science, but I may not be able to 
be picky, that are completely online or synchronous-distance, I’d appreciate 
the info. 

Email me directly, rather than reply all, please, and if anyone else wants the 
full list (assuming I get any!) I’ll happily share. For spring 2019, or 
winter/intercession, or outside of the traditional academic calendar is also 
fine. 

Thank you in advance!

Rebecca Shell
she/her/hers
Portland, OR

[ECOLOG-L] Postdoctoral position - intertidal ecology

[Gilman, Sarah]

A postdoctoral research fellow position in intertidal ecology is available in 
the laboratory of Dr. Sarah Gilman at the W.M. Keck Science Department of 
Claremont McKenna, Pitzer and Scripps Colleges, Claremont, CA.  The postdoc 
will join an NSF-funded project to explore the relative importance of 
physiological stress and energy limitation on the upper vertical limit of the 
intertidal barnacle, Balanus glandula.

The main research focus of this postdoc will be to develop an energy budget 
model and continue ongoing laboratory-based respirometry and feeding 
experiments.  (S)he will also actively mentor undergraduate researchers.  
Additional responsibilities include laboratory management and the written and 
oral communication of research results. The project may include travel to field 
sites in California and Washington.

The postdoc will also have the opportunity to explore the culture of a 
teaching-focused institution, and could be involved in teaching one or more 
undergraduate courses, with mentoring from the PI.

The successful applicant will have completed a PhD degree in ecology, marine 
biology, or a related field prior to the start date. (S)he will also have prior 
experience with computer programming.  A good publication record, strong 
organizational and communication skills, and a demonstrated ability to work 
independently are required.

The intended start date for this position is January 2019.  The duration is for 
twelve months. Salary and benefits are competitive.

The full job description can be found online at 
https://theclaremontcolleges.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/CMC_Staff/job/Claremont/Postdoctoral-Research-Fellow_REQ-1178

To apply, please submit:  a cover letter that explains your fit to the research 
position, your interest in teaching, and your potential start date; a CV; and 
the names of two references.  Please use the online application form at the 
above link.  Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until 
the position is filled.

For more information, contact Sarah Gilman, 
sgil...@kecksci.claremont.edu

-
Sarah Gilman, Ph.D.

W.M. Keck Science Department, of
Claremont McKenna, Pitzer, and Scripps Colleges
925 N. Mills Avenue
Claremont, CA 91711

http://faculty.jsd.claremont.edu/sgilman
sgil...@kecksci.claremont.edu
909-607-0715

[ECOLOG-L] International Research Experience for Students

[Emily Key]

Position: Student Researcher 

Project: Resilient Urban Latin America (RULA) International Research Experience 
for Students (IRES)

Location: Technological Institute of Sonora (ITSON) 

Employer: Urban Resilience to Extremes Sustainability Research Network (UREx 
SRN): Flexible Research Dates

Pay: Travel, lodging, meals and incidentals are paid. Each student will receive 
a stipend of $500 per week, plus an additional $1,000 toward research expenses.

Call for Applications: UREx SRN is seeking highly motivated students interested 
in research on climate change and urbanization. The RULA IRES project supports 
the development of globally-engaged U.S. science and engineering students 
capable of performing in an international research environment at the forefront 
of science and engineering. The project offers one undergraduate and three 
graduate students the opportunity to conduct eight to ten weeks of onsite 
research in Hermosillo, Mexico which has an urban community facing climate 
extremes. This research will afford students collaboration and mentorship 
experiences for conducting research, gaining skills in research design, data 
analysis and management, and presentation across diverse social and political 
cultures; project outcomes can be integrated within existing dissertation 
research. 

Review the full description, research date options, and instructions to apply 
at: https://sustainability.asu.edu/urbanresilience/opportunities/

Noteworthy Hiring Details: Some knowledge of Spanish language will receive 
preference but is not required.

Deadline: For full consideration please send application materials to 
emily@asu.edu by Friday, December 7, 2018.

[ECOLOG-L] PhD position at UF-Population Ecology

[Miguel Acevedo]

We are looking for a highly motivated Ph.D. student with broad interests in 
Population Ecology in the Lab of Miguel Acevedo at the University of Florida.

The student will conduct research as part of an NSF-funded project aimed to 
understand the demographic and life-history consequences of fauna 
re-colonization of secondary habitats.  Our study organism is the lizard Anolis 
gundlachi that lives in the rainforest in Puerto Rico. The overall study 
includes fieldwork, demographic modeling, and genomic analyses.  The student is 
expected to contribute to the project while also develop his or her own 
questions and ideas within the broad scope of the topic.

Start dates: January or August 2019

Qualifications: The Ph.D. candidate will devote their time to academic 
excellence and will be required to spend time away from home in the field 
(working in Puerto Rico). Candidates with an MSc are preferred, however, 
applicants with a BSc that have extensive independent research and/or 
peer-reviewed publications in high-quality journals may also be considered 
competitive. Because of the nature of this research, candidates are expected to 
be independent with significant experience working in the field. Skills in 
ecological modeling and/or genomic analyses are desirable.
For more information, please visit our website 
(http://www.ecosigmasquared.com/phd_position.html) or contact, Miguel Acevedo, 
at maacevedo[at]ufl.edu

To receive full consideration, candidates must send a CV, research statement 
and the names and contact information of three references to the above email 
address.

[ECOLOG-L] Job Announcement: State Herpetologist, Massachusetts

[Peter Hazelton]

The Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program of the Massachusetts Division 
of Fisheries & Wildlife has posted an opening for the State Herpetologist.  
Details below.

Requisition Link: 
https://massanf.taleo.net/careersection/ex/jobdetail.ftl?job=180007TC 
Functional Title: State Herpetologist
Official Title: Conservation Biologist IV
Location: Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, 1 Rabbit Hill Road, Westboro, MA
Job Description 
State Herpetologist - (180007TC)
Description
 
The Massachusetts Department of Fish & Game works to preserve the state's 
natural resources and people's right to conservation of those resources, as 
protected by Article 97 of the Massachusetts Constitution. To carry out this 
mission, the Department exercises responsibility over the Commonwealth's marine 
and freshwater fisheries, wildlife species, plants, and natural communities, as 
well as the habitats that support them.
 
The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (DFW) is responsible for 
the conservation - including restoration, protection and management - of fish 
and wildlife resources for the benefit and enjoyment of the public.
 
The Department of Fish and Game seeks applicants for the position of the State 
Herpetologist (Conservation Biologist IV).

The State Herpetologist (Conservation Biologist IV) implements inventory, 
research and management programs to conserve the Commonwealth’s endangered, 
threatened and special concern reptiles and amphibians, compiles and analyzes 
data on the distribution of the state’s herpetofauna, especially its rare and 
endangered species, and provides technical guidance to DFW regulatory review 
staff implementing the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act.

Duties include:
 
1.Compile and analyze data on rare reptile and amphibian populations 
and habitats, and apply these data to maintaining and updating the state’s 
official rare species list; review and evaluate individual species for 
appropriateness of inclusion on or deletion from the Massachusetts Endangered 
Species Act (MESA) list; research taxonomy as necessary; develop listing 
criteria; screen rare reptile and amphibian species observation records for 
accuracy and completeness before acceptance into NHESP databases.  Prepare 
species habitat maps for reptile and amphibian species.
 
2.Plan, supervise, and/or conduct field surveys and scientific 
investigations of populations of endangered, threatened and special concern 
reptile and amphibian species; oversee and administer short-term reptile and 
amphibian research and inventory projects to be contracted-out; hire and 
supervise seasonal staff to assist in biological surveys and research, as 
needed; analyze conservation research and inventory results and prepare 
studies, technical reports and scientific papers for publication.
 
3.Develop, implement, and coordinate long range habitat and population 
management programs for endangered reptiles and amphibians, and work with 
partners to research, manage, and protect important habitat areas.
 
4.   Apply knowledge of the abundance, distribution, ecology, and 
management needs of rare reptiles and amphibians through participation in 
regulatory reviews, and protection and ecological restoration planning, and in 
other DFW/NHESP projects. 
 
5.Develop and maintain professional relationships with habitat land 
managers, the environmental and scientific communities; develop and implement 
conservation partnerships to advance reptile and amphibian conservation; 
interact professionally with biologists at the state, regional, and national 
level; coordinate efforts with the DFW Fisheries & Wildlife Sections. 
 
6.Prepare and deliver presentations, develop informational material, 
and conduct other targeted education and outreach to increase awareness of the 
status and conservation needs of the biodiversity of the Commonwealth; work 
with DFW/NHESP administrators to seek and obtain funding and/or other material 
support for reptile and amphibian conservation.
 
7.Perform other duties as assigned.
 
Qualifications Required at Hire: 
 
1.  Extensive knowledge of the principles and practices of herpetology and 
biological conservation.
2.  Thorough knowledge of the identification, ecology, and habitat 
requirements of a component of the herpetofauna of the northeastern U.S. 
(especially rare species) and some knowledge of the geography and ecoregions of 
Massachusetts.
3.  Demonstrated experience with GIS technology and ability to read 
topographic maps.
4.  Experience with or knowledge of NatureServe/Natural Heritage 
methodology.
5.  Ability to speak and write clearly and effectively.
6.  Ability to deal effectively with a wide variety of people.
7.  Willingness to travel extensively throughout the state and to work in 
the field under adverse weather conditions.
Preferred qualification:  M.S. or Ph.D. degree in Biology, Ecolog

[ECOLOG-L] Job: Land Management Specialist, Melrose FL

[Nathan Burmester]

Conservation Sci/Forester II

Land Management Specialist (CONSERVATION SCI/ FORESTER II)

Conservation Management Duties
Including but not limited to:

-Works under supervision of Land Manager on conservation projects that will 
primarily involve habitat restoration, groundcover harvesting, fire management, 
exotic invasive species control, and monitoring.
-Serves as a fire crew member in the Station’s wildland fire management 
program on controlled fires and wildfires for the purpose of natural resource 
enhancement, restoration, fuel reduction, research, and training.
-Participates in fire suppression activities that may require working a 
non-normal work schedule (infrequent)
-Assist with off-site controlled burns with cooperators (ex: FL Park 
Service, SJRWMD, etc.).
-Assists in preparation of management units for burning;
-Assists with pre and post fire operation needs including preparing 
fire breaks, burn unit fuel treatments, pre and post-burn monitoring. 
-Assists in maintaining fire equipment and fire cache in ready status; 
maintain clean and organized trucks, UTVs, ATVs and work areas.
-Works alongside cooperators and contractors of OSBS when needed
-Works with other Conservation program staff in scouting, documenting, and 
controlling of exotic-invasive species on OSBS.
-Collects data on identified conservation projects and serves as a backup 
data collector on selected projects. Assist with monitoring natural communities 
for management needs and effects of management activities
-Ensures proper implementation of restoration projects, forestry 
operations, and other activities through field supervision of contractors, 
volunteers, interns and direct participation

Operations Management Duties
Including but not limited to:

-Maintains Station roads and fire breaks through mowing, trimming, disking, 
rolling, and grading.
-Participates with other staff in maintaining Station equipment and 
building facilities.
-Enforces OSBS and UF policies with Station visitors, including natural 
resources protection, in a tactful manner on the lands comprising OSBS. This 
part of the job requires regular patrol driving of Station. Contact with local 
law enforcement representatives may be required when dealing with trespassers. 
Scheduled patrolling on weekends will be required: 2-6 hrs./month.
-Prepares purchase requests and work order requests. 
-Assist on outreach and education events and tours. Some events may also 
occur on weekends.
-Remove & repair fencing.

Computer/Geospatial Duties
Including but not limited to:

-Collects GPS data related to resource management and other identified 
needs.
-Participates in mapping exotic-invasive species, insect/disease outbreaks, 
fire effects, timber harvesting, restoration, etc. and transferring into GIS
-Assists Station users in use of Trimble GPS equipment and downloading GPS 
data when needed.
-Ensures Trimble unit’s data are backed-up and updates GPS software 
periodically.
-Enters data into spreadsheets, databases, and word documents

Other duties as determined by supervisor, Land Manager (CONSERVATION SCI/ 
FORESTER III)

Advertised Salary:
Commensurate with education and experience

Minimum Requirements:

-Doctoral degree in forestry, agricultural science, rangeland 
management, environmental science, or a closely related field; or a master’s 
degree in forestry, agricultural science, rangeland management, environmental 
science, or a closely related field and one year of relevant experience; or a 
bachelor’s degree in forestry, agricultural science, rangeland management, 
environmental science, or a closely related field and three years of relevant 
experience.
-Valid Florida driver's license and safe driving record.

Preferred Qualifications:

-NWCG Red Card qualified as a Firefighter Type 1 Wildland Fire Fighter
-Completed Southern Engine Academy
-Experience with volunteer supervision
-Florida commercial herbicide applicator license with certification in 
natural areas herbicide application.
-EXCELLENT PHYSICAL CONDITION 
-Ability to interact pleasantly and knowledgeably with Station users 
and to convey basic station information
-Experience with the maintenance and repair of small motors, pumps, and 
chainsaws.
-Has experience on prescribed burns
-Demonstrated knowledge and ID of southeastern flora and fauna as well 
as exotic/invasive plant species common to Florida
-Experience with standard computer programs (Microsoft Office suite and 
Outlook), as well as experience with collecting GPS data and working on GIS 
projects with ESRI ArcMap software.
-Experience in the use of off-road vehicles and equipment, including 
heavy equipment (tractors, loaders, tractor attachments, ATVs, UTVs),

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Interest

[ECOLOG-L] Call for Abstracts to 2019 Annual Conference for Oregon Chapter of the Wildlife Society

[Meghan Martin]

Final Call for Paper and Poster Abstracts






2019 Annual Meeting
https://ortws.org/2019-annual-meeting/ 


Ecology and Policy in a Changing Environment
Oregon Chapter of the Wildlife Society


February 27 – March 1, Bend, Oregon
River House on the Deschutes 

Reservation Information Forthcoming
($112 per night single occupancy)


Registration is Now Open! 

  


We invite abstracts for presentations and posters, special session proposals, 
and ideas for other facets of the program.  All topics in wildlife, vertebrate 
biology, habitat management, conservation, and application of research findings 
to conservation and management practices are welcome. Some topics that are 
especially applicable to this year's theme include climate change and policy, 
disturbance ecology and policy, post-disturbance restoration, pathogens and 
invasive species, shifting ranges of species, and communicating the 
conservation message.  


*** Abstract Deadline:  November 30th, 2018 ***
Tentative Schedule


27 February – Registration Opens, Keynote Address by Oregon State 
Representative Ken Helm, Plenary Panel with Bruce Marcot (USFS), Michael Nelson 
(OSU), and Marsha Weisiger (UO), Contributed Sessions, Poster Session, Photo 
Contest, and more!
28 February – Contributed Sessions, Banquet, and Award Ceremonies.
1 March - Field Trips*, Workshops*, Special Events, and Adjourn
*Separate registration may be required


We strongly encourage all students to present Posters or Oral talks.

ABSTRACT SUBMISSION
Abstracts for oral presentations and posters must be submitted electronically 
using this on-line form 

 by November 30th, 2018. Please limit abstracts to 250 words.


POSTER PRESENTATION GUIDELINES:
Each poster should be contained within a 3 foot-high x 4 foot-wide area.   
Please contact poster committee chair Lee Foster at leefos...@ortws.org <> if 
you have additional questions about display boards and/or the size of your 
poster.


Be sure to submit an abstract for your poster by November 30th, 2018 using this 
online form 
.


Note for software associated with Oral Presentations:
Visual support for oral presentations will only be allowed in PowerPoint format 
for PCs (Apple-based format will not be acceptable).  PowerPoint presentations 
should be MS-Office 2013 or earlier version to ensure greatest compatibility 
with anticipated projection equipment and computer support.  As always, give 
credit where credit is due by naming the image owner. If an image is 
copyrighted, then get permission from the image owner before using it.


IGNITE PRESENTATIONS:

Want to present at the Conference but do not want to prepare a full 
presentation or poster?  The Partners invite you to present at the Ignite 
session on Thursday February 28th.  These short to-the-point talks provide a 
great platform for people to quickly share project updates, notes from the 
field, or other important topics that don’t require a full 20-minute 
presentation.  IGNITE presentations are exactly 5 minutes and contain exactly 
20 slides.  The slides advance automatically after each slide is displayed for 
15 seconds.  IGNITE sessions have been well received at past meetings and are a 
fun way to get involved.  Simply submit your name, talk title, and 2-3 sentence 
abstract on the abstract submission page 
.
  Make sure the presentation type is ”IGNITE”.

SPECIAL SESSIONS:

We are currently soliciting special session topics, special sessions are 
devoted to a single topic or theme.  If you have ideas for a special session at 
the 2019 Annual Conference, and can provide about 4 or more speakers to present 
on your to

[ECOLOG-L] Science communication & policy training at AGU18

[Shane M Hanlon]

AGU's annual meeting is in DC this year from 9-14 December and their Sharing 
Science program (sharingscience.agu.org) is holding a whole week of programming 
(http://tinyurl.com/y7ugaw5n)! If you plan on attending the meeting, please 
check out the Science Communication and Science Policy rooms.

In addition to the week of events, Sharing Science is holding two FREE 
workshops on Sunday, 9 December:

-Communicating Science With Any Audience: Workshop at AGU18 
(http://tinyurl.com/y9fth9ue)
-Science Storytelling in Multimedia: Workshop at AGU18 
(http://tinyurl.com/yac4e8ay)

*Registration for each workshop is required.* 

Space is limited and meeting attendees will receive preference; however, 
scientists in the DMV of any discipline are welcomed to register!

Be on the lookout for additional free events including an Open Mic Night on 
Tuesday the 11th and The Story Collider on Thursday the 13th.

Hope to see you there!

[ECOLOG-L] Job: Rangeland Science Aide, Burns, Oregon

[Lysandra Pyle]

Job Title: Biological Science Aide
Series/Grade: GS-0404-03/04
Desired Start Date: January 7, 2019 
Position Length: 8 – 9 months, winter through summer.
Location: Eastern Oregon Agricultural Research Center (EOARC), Burns, OR

Job Duties: Provide assistance to ecologists with lab and fieldwork in 
sagebrush steppe plant communities in the Northern Great Basin. Projects will 
be focused on the ecology of seeds and seedlings for restoration projects and 
rangelands degraded by fire or invasive species. Knowledge of common rangeland 
plants, soils, ecosites, etc. would be an asset. Common tasks may include the 
following: following protocols for surveying and sampling vegetation and soil, 
processing soil samples in the lab, sorting and counting seeds/seedlings at a 
species level, dissection of plant material, plant taxonomy, examining the soil 
surface for cryptic species, and quantifying microsite characteristics of the 
plant-soil interface.

Requirements: Undergraduate or recent graduate in range, botany, or other 
natural resource fields. Must be able to work in all field conditions (all 
seasons and weather, including winter) where periods of kneeling/squatting are 
expected for data/sample collection, and hiking on variable terrain Is 
expected. This work will occur in a high desert environment, which has hot-dry 
summers. Travel to remote locations with overnight stay in camps or field 
housing is also possible, thus a valid driver’s license is necessary. 
Enthusiasm for fieldwork, the ability to perform tedious, repetitive tasks, and 
an eye for detail is required. Previous experience would be considered an 
asset. Relevant education or experience will be considered. Must be a United 
States citizen.

GS-3: Successful completion of 1 year of study that included at least 6 
semester hours in any combination of scientific or technical courses such as 
biology, chemistry, statistics, entomology, animal husbandry, botany, physics, 
agriculture, or mathematics OR 6 months of general experience, which 
demonstrates the ability to perform the work of the position.

GS-4: 6 months of general and 6 months of specialized experience OR successful 
completion of 2 years of post high school study that included at least 12 
semester hours in any combination of courses such as biology, chemistry, 
statistics, entomology, animal husbandry, botany, physics, agriculture or 
mathematics of which 6 semester hours of courses relate directly to the duties 
of  the position (plant biology, range/ecology, or natural resource 
management). General experience must have demonstrated the ability to perform 
the work of the position or provided a familiarity with the subject matter. 
Specialized experience must have been at least equivalent to the GS-03 grade 
level in the Federal Service.

Wage and Housing: $12.74 to $14.30 /hr depending on experience and education. 
Work weeks are typically 40 hours, longer hours are typical during fieldwork. 
Housing and utilities are provided at the research station in Burns.

To Apply: Contact lap...@ucanr.edu with a cover letter, resume, and transcripts 
(unofficial are permitted). List any classes you have taken in range science, 
botany, wildlife, soils, and environmental science. In your cover letter 
emphasize experience relevant to aspects fieldwork/lab work or the potential 
tasks described above. Applications will be considered as they are received, 
apply by Nov 30th.

USDA-ARS is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.

Lysandra Pyle
University of California, Davis – Agriculture and Natural Resources
Eastern Oregon Agricultural Research Center
67826-A Hwy 205
Burns, OR 97720
lap...@ucanr.edu

Link to Job add on twitter: 
https://twitter.com/GrasslandNerd/status/1062795247925641216
EOARC Research Station: http://oregonstate.edu/dept/eoarc/

[ECOLOG-L] Masters of Science in Environmental Science - Villanova University

[Nat Weston]

The Villanova University Master of Science in Environmental Science (MSES; 
https://www1.villanova.edu/villanova/artsci/geoenv/academicprograms/Gradute_Programs.html)
 program is accepting applications for Fall 2019. The program emphasizes 
integrated thinking and learning at the nexus of science, policy, and society. 
Our graduates see beyond linear and fragmented approaches to solving 
environmental problems and understand the complex interactions between people 
and the environment. Students may elect either a thesis or non-thesis (capstone 
or portfolio) option that can be completed full-time or part-time. We offer 
specialty tracks in Ecosystem Sciences, Resource Management, and Geospatial 
Sciences that prepare graduates to be competitive in multiple career paths. The 
MSES faculty includes professors with expertise in several academic disciplines 
and a range of scholarly interests that span geography, biology, chemistry, and 
geology. Research undertaken by faculty and MSES students spans these 
disciplines (see 
https://www1.villanova.edu/villanova/artsci/geoenv/academicprograms/Gradute_Programs/ResearchAreas.html
 for more information about ongoing research).  For more information about the 
MSES program, and to apply, see the program website 
(https://www1.villanova.edu/villanova/artsci/geoenv/academicprograms/Gradute_Programs.html),
 or contact the Program Coordinator, Ms. Kathleen Cooper 
(kathleen.f.coo...@villanova.edu). Prospective students are also encourage to 
contact potential research mentors 
(https://www1.villanova.edu/villanova/artsci/geoenv/facultyandstaff.html) 
directly. To be considered for graduate assistantships (including tuition and 
stipend), applications must be received by March 1, 2019. 

[ECOLOG-L] M.S. Graduate Positions - Fish Microbiome at Texas State University

[Camila Carlos-Shanley]

M.S. Graduate positions in fish microbiome are be available in Dr. Camila 
Carlos-Shanley’s lab in the Department of Biology, Texas State University, 
beginning Fall 2019. Projects will focus on the effects of water pollutants on 
the fish microbiota. Students will be funded through a combination of research 
and instructional assistantships. See http://carloslab.wp.txstate.edu/ for 
details about our lab, papers and our research interests. Preference will be 
given to students with prior research experience and solid molecular lab and 
quantitative skills.

The Department of Biology offers a strong environment for training students in 
aquatic biology. The Master’s program in Aquatic Resources would be the best 
fit for such an applicant. For program information see 
https://www.bio.txstate.edu/Graduate-Programs/M-S–Aquatic-Resources.html.

Interested students should send an email with a statement of interest that 
includes topics you might be interested in working on in our lab and your 
long-term goals/interests. Please include a copy of your CV, unofficial 
undergraduate transcripts, GRE (if available), and any other relevant 
experience to Dr. Camila Carlos-Shanley by email (carlos-shanley at 
txstate.edu). Reference letters for top candidates might be solicited at a 
later date. Applications will be reviewed as they come in. A formal application 
package must also be submitted to the Graduate College at Texas State 
University by January 15, 2019 for full consideration in the Fall 2019 semester.

[ECOLOG-L] Papua New Guinea agroforestry supports conservation & development goals

[Erik Hoffner]

New from the Mongabay series on agroforestry worldwide showing that some
kinds of agriculture can be good for biodiversity, poverty alleviation,
climate mitigation, and also direct conservation of rainforests and reefs:


   - *Agroforestry produces a wide array of products for farmers, from
   betel nut to coconut and cacao, and is seen as a tool to address the
   country’s issues of rapid population growth and shrinking land resources.*
   - *The diverse and predictable harvest provided by agroforestry also
   allows the community of Gildipasi the additional luxury of putting aside
   nearby areas of forest for conservation: 2,000 hectares (4,940 acres) of
   forested areas and a marine zone have been protected in the last 18 years.*

Great pictures and a full report:

https://news.mongabay.com/2018/11/agroforestry-supports-food-security-and-conservation-in-papua-new-guinea/

Erik

--

www.erikhoffner.com

[ECOLOG-L] Recommendations of free software for the Box-Cox transformation in Excel?

[Jorge A. Santiago-Blay]

Hi:

I am looking for recommendations of free software for the Box-Cox
transformation in Excel? Ideally, I would just like to follow a protocol
(available on web videos *and not to program anything*) and try to
normalize the data as much a s possible.

Any recommendations that may fit the bill be be appreciated. Please, direct
them to:

blayjo...@gmail.com

Gratefully,

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] Course:Genome Assembly and Annotation. Berlin

[Carlo Pecoraro]

Dear all,

 

we are pleased to inform you that we will run the 2nd edition of our "Assembly 
and Annotation of genomes" course from the 11th to the 15th of February 2019, 
in Berlin (Germany)

 

https://www.physalia-courses.org/courses-workshops/course20/

 

 

 

 

Application deadline is: January 10th, 2019.

 

 

 

 

 

Instructor:

 

 

 

Dr. Thomas D. Otto (University of Glasgow, UK; 
https://www.physalia-courses.org/instructors/t28/)

 

 

 

Assistant instructor:

 

 

 

Mr. Maximilian Driller (Begendiv, Germany; http://bit.ly/2zcwmQT)

 

 

 

 

 

Overview

 

 

This course will introduce biologists and bioinformaticians to the concepts of 
de novo assembly and annotation. Different technologies, from Illumina, PacBio, 
Oxford Nanopoor and maybe 10X will be used mixed with different approaches like 
correction, HiC scaffolding to generate good draft assemblies. Particular 
attention will be given to the quality control of the assemblies and to the 
understanding how errors occur. Further, annotation tools using RNA-Seq data 
will be introduced. An outlook of potential analysis is given. In the end of 
the course the students should be able to understand what is needed to generate 
a good annotated genome.

 

 

 

 

 

Targeted Audience & Assumed Background

 

 

The course is aimed at researchers interested in learning more about genome 
assembly and annotation. It will include information useful for both the 
beginner and the more advanced user. We will start by introducing general 
concepts and then continue to step-by-step describe all major components of a 
genome assembly and annotation workflow, from raw data all the way to a final 
assembled and annotated genome. There will be a mix of lectures and hands-on 
practical exercises using command line Linux.

 

Attendees should have a background in biology. We will dedicate one session to 
some basic and advanced Linux concepts. Attendees should have also some 
familiarity with genomic data such as that arising from NGS sequencers.

 

 

 

 

 

Session content

Monday 12th – Classes from 09:30 to 17:30 - “get it starting”

 

Session 1: Introduction (morning)

 

In this session I will kick off with an introduction lecture about genome 
assembly and annotation - the past, the present and the future. I will use this 
introduction to motivate the five-day course. Next, I will explain the use of 
the virtual machine (VM), and the use of cloud computing. This is followed by 
short introduction to Linux. Through the morning we will kick off our first 
assembly and put it through an annotation tool (Companion).

 

 

 

Session 2: Visualization (half afternoon)

 

 During this afternoon, we are going to visualize the assembled and annotation 
genome from this morning in Artemis. The aim is to use the viewer to inspect 
the annotation, correct annotation and write out files. Next, we are going to 
perform a comparative exercise, (comparing the genome from the morning with a 
close reference) to understand the concept of syntheny, breakpoint or errors.

 

 

 

Session 3: Mapping

 

 In this module, I will teach the basics of read mapping. We will map reads 
with bwa mem onto a reference and will examine duplications and errors through 
not proper mapped read pairs. This is important to exanimate the correctness of 
assemblies and will be used later the week.

 

 

 

 

 

Tuesday 13th – Classes from 09:30 to 17:30 -  “learn it the old way”

 

Session 4: De Brujin graph and PAGIT

 

This module is dedicated to short read assembly. Although it might be 
superseded due to long reads, understanding the concept of short reads and De 
Brujin graph is crucial. After a seminar about this subject, we will assemble 
the same genome as before, but this time with Illumina: de novo assembly with 
velvet, contig ordering, error correction. Through comparative genomics we are 
going to look at errors in the assembly, and how they could be found with 
remapping short reads, and also split long reads. Last, we are going to compare 
the assembly to the assembly from Monday. This session will go into the 
afternoon of Tuesday.

 

 

 

Session 5: RNA-Seq

 

In this session, we will analysis the transcriptome of the sample we assembled 
so far, motivated through a little talk. In the exercise, we will map RNA-Seq 
reads, (short and long reads) understanding first the basics of RNA-Seq, but 
then will use the reads to correct gene models. We will discuss the concept of 
alternative splicing.

 

 Finally, we will annotate our assembly with Augustus, using the mapped RNA-Seq 
data and some manually corrected genes.

 

 

 

 

 

Wednesday 14th – Classes from 09:30 to 17:30 - “do it yourself”

 

Session 6: Large genome assembly

 

First we are going to kick off an assembly of a larger genome, and let it run 
in the cloud over the day and the night. It will be important during the day to 
check if the assembly is still running.

 

 

 

S

[ECOLOG-L] A $25 Gift Card Could Be Yours -- Take ESA's Certification Survey

[Jonathan Miller]

As an ecologist or professional in an ecology-related field, you care about 
your credentials. The Ecological Society of America is the premier scientific 
society dedicated to the advancing the understanding of life on earth.

ESA is considering revising the Professional Ecologist Certification 
(https://www.esa.org/certification/) and is requesting your input. We invite 
ecologists and professionals at all career stages to participate in this 
survey. This information is critical to ensure ESA is meeting the professional 
needs of ecologists, employers, and professionals in ecology-related fields.

Complete the survey by Tuesday, Nov. 27, to be eligible for a $25 Amazon gift 
card!

https://s.zoomerang.com/r/ESACertification

This is the perfect time of year to join ESA for 2019, too -- learn more about 
the value of membership and the benefits of being part of the largest community 
of ecologists in the world!

https://www.esa.org/esa/membership-services/

[ECOLOG-L] Environmental DNA Research Technician at University of Washington/NOAA PMEL (Genetics & Genomics Group)

[Carol Stepien - NOAA Federal]

RESEARCH SCIENTIST/ENGINEER 2

Department: Joint Institute for the Study of the Atmosphere and Ocean (JISAO)
Posting Date: 11/21/2018
Closing Info: Open Until Filled
Salary: Salary is commensurate with education and experience

As a University of Washington employee, you have a unique opportunity to change 
lives on our campuses, in our state and around the world. UW employees offer 
their boundless energy, creative problem solving skills and dedication to build 
stronger minds and a healthier world.

UW faculty and staff also enjoy outstanding benefits, professional growth 
opportunities and unique resources in an environment noted for diversity, 
intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. All of which has 
allowed the UW to be nationally recognized as a “Great College to Work For” for 
five consecutive years.

JISAO has an outstanding opportunity for a Research Scientist Engineer.  This 
JISAO/UW research scientist will work in the new Genetics and Genomics Group 
(G3 Lab) at the NOAA Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory, Sand Point in 
Seattle under Dr. Carol Stepien (NOAA/PMEL) and with Dr. Kim Andrews 
(JISAO/UW). The G3 lab uses cutting-edge techniques such as multi-locus 
metabarcoding, RADseq, and mitogenome sequencing to study oceanic biological 
community diversity and responses to physical and chemical oceanographic 
parameters.

Component species and population  genetic relationships for invertebrates and 
fishes are identified and assessed using environmental DNA (eDNA), plankton, 
sediment samples, and whole organisms collected with plankton tows, CTD casts, 
ROVs, and sediment cores. Study regions include the west coast of North 
America, Salish Sea, Gulf of Alaska, Bering Sea, and U.S. Arctic, as well as 
deep sea vents and seeps across the Pacific. Physical, chemical and biological 
oceanographic parameters are considered to predict the effects on marine 
ecosystems of environmental change including acidification, warming, hypoxia, 
and deep sea mining.  This position involves using environmental DNA and 
Next-generation sequencing data collection and analysis from water and plankton 
samples from the Pacific Northwest, Alaska, Arctic and the deep sea in concert 
with physical and chemical oceanographic conditions to understand marine 
ecology.

Job duties:
•Perform, trouble-shoot, and analyze results of various molecular biology 
techniques including quantitative RT-PCR, Next-Generation Sequencing library 
preparation (e.g., metabarcoding, RADseq, mitogenomes), Sanger sequencing, 
DNA/RNA/protein extractions, tissue and sample acquisition
•Interpret results and maintain complete and accurate records of experiments 
conducted and data obtained in a laboratory notebook and in computer databases
•Assist PI with grant-related paperwork, data analyses, literature reviews and 
preparation of manuscripts and presentations
•Train and help oversee laboratory graduate and undergraduate student 
researchers in conducting molecular biology experiments, when specified by the 
PI
•Maintain laboratory equipment, cleanliness, autoclaving, buffer preparation, 
etc. Inventory and order supplies
•Conduct at-sea experiments and sampling of plankton, fishes and invertebrates.

As a UW employee, you will enjoy generous benefits and work/life programs.  For 
detailed information on Benefits for this position, click here.

Required education/skills:
•BS Degree in molecular biology, life sciences, genetics, chemistry or related 
field
•Minimum of one to three years of job-related experience
•Careful attention to detail and record keeping, strong laboratory chemistry 
techniques to avoid contamination, skilled in molecular biology/genetics 
techniques, statistical analysis skills and experience
•Strong organizational skills. Excellent interpersonal communication skills 
(oral and written)
•Familiarity with MS Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Adobe Acrobat/Illustrator
•Working knowledge of molecular biology and sterile techniques, including PCR, 
DNA extraction, DNA sequencing
•Must be physically able to work at sea and lift boxes of samples or equipment 
weighing 50 pounds

Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications 
except where there are legal requirements such as 
license/certification/registration.

Desired skills and abilities:
•Strong preference for genetics analytical skills, including BLAST, DNA 
alignment, sequence analysis, and statistical analysis
•Population genetics course and data analysis experience, experienced in 
genomics and genetics laboratory approaches, next-generation sequencing
•Courses or background in systematic biology and taxonomy, invertebrate 
zoology, ichthyology (fishes), marine biology/oceanography
•Experience working at sea

Application Process:

Apply here:
https://uwhires.admin.washington.edu/ENG/Candidates/default.cfm?szCategory=jobprofile&szOrderID=162196
 

[ECOLOG-L] Requesting Assistance with Cormorant ID

[John A.]

I would appreciate help identifying a cormorant from some imperfect photos. 
 The question is whether the bird is a great cormorant vs. double-crested, and 
it’s not as clear-cut as one could hope.  

I’d be very grateful for a second opinion from an experienced eye, or a 
recommendation to a birding list with many experienced eyes.  Please contact me 
off-list with my thanks in advance.


 - J. A.

[ECOLOG-L] PhD position Soil Microbiology, Research Network Chemistry meets Microbiology, University of Vienna

[Christof Oberwalder]

Hi everyone,

Please share this PhD position (deadline 2nd Dec. 2018!!) with any 
potential candidate.


TER, the Division of Terrestrial Ecosystem Research, Department of 
Microbiology and Ecosystem Science, is looking for a highly motivated 
PhD student interested to work at the interface between soil microbial 
ecology, biogeochemistry and global change ecology. We are committed to 
conduct excellent research in a motivating and intellectually 
stimulating environment, and to train our students to become independent 
and internationally competitive scientists who enjoy research and 
contribute to society as conscientious citizens.


Job Description:
our responsibility will be to write a PhD thesis (scientific papers) and 
the participation in research projects. Additionally, it is expected 
that you assist in the supervision of students and the maintenance of 
analytical instrumentation at the department. Teaching to the extent of 
the collective agreement provisions is required.

*30 hours/week, 10th of  Dec. 18 to 31st of July, 22*

Profile:
+ Master or diploma degree in biology, with focus on ecology
+ Expertise in the field of soil ecology and ecosystem research
+ Experience in field work in alpine or arctic ecosystems
+ Profound practical knowledge of analytical methods/approaches in at 
least one of areas: pyrolysis-GC/MS, isotope incorporations into 
biomarker (18O in DNA, 13C in PLFA), isotope pool dilution methods 
(e.g., N mineralization), soil incubations.

+ Good written and oral communication skills

Ideal candidates should have a solid background in ecosystem research, 
preferably in the area of soil, ecosystem ecology and/or Global Change 
ecology. Applicants must have the ability to work in an international 
team, have good communication skills and should be highly motivated and 
committed to pursuing interdisciplinary research. Excellent English in 
speaking and writing is mandatory.


Documents:
- Motivation letter (1 page maximum)
- CV (including scientific publication and presentation activities, if any)
- Description of the research interests (1 page maximum).
- Contact details of two possible references

Additional competences, required documents, Contact:
https://personalwesen.univie.ac.at/en/jobs-recruiting/job-center

This position is listed under 'Current job vacancies, No 9121

Applications should be submitted via the Job Center to the University of 
Vienna (http://jobcenter.univie.ac.at)

no later than *02nd of Dec. 12. 18*, mentioning reference number 9121.

Thanks!
Christof

--
University of Vienna
Department of Microbiology and Ecosystem Science
Division - Terrestrial Ecosystem Reseach
Althanstrasse 14
1090 Vienna
Austria
++43 (0)1 4277-25761