[ECOLOG-L] Second Announcement: Upcoming Species Occurrence/Distribution Modeling Courses in USA

2014-09-23 Thread Darryl MacKenzie
Apologies for any cross postings. Note early-bird registration period 
ends 1 October!


University of California, Davis, California: 20-24 October 2014
University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming: 27-31 October 2014

Instructor: Darryl I. MacKenzie, Proteus Wildlife Research Consultants
Cost: US$800 until 1 October, US$850 thereafter

In these courses participants will be instructed in methods for modeling 
patterns and dynamics of species occurrence with emphasis on accounting 
for imperfect detection, with computer exercises in PRESENCE and R. 
Important issues for study design will also be covered.


Additional details and registration available at 
http://www.proteus.co.nz/courses.php


[ECOLOG-L] Tenure Track Vertebrate Zoologist

2014-09-23 Thread Jonathan Horton
The Department of Biology at the University of North Carolina Asheville, 
the UNC system's designated public liberal arts institution, is seeking 
qualified applicants with expertise in vertebrate zoology for a 
full-time, tenure-track assistant professor position that will begin in 
the fall semester of 2015. The person selected for this position must 
have earned a Ph.D. in Biology, Zoology or an appropriate discipline 
prior to August 10, 2015 and will be expected to teach 12 contact hours 
per semester; establish a research program that involves undergraduates; 
and engage in service to the institution, the community and the 
profession. Teaching duties will include contributions to our core 
curriculum for majors in evolution and zoology and upper-level courses 
(both field- and laboratory-based) in the candidate's area of 
expertise.Individuals with postdoctoral experience, a passion for 
undergraduate teaching, and experience at an institution focused on the 
liberal arts are strongly encouraged to apply.


UNC Asheville has been a national leader in undergraduate research for 
almost 30 years, and over 60% of our students graduate each year having 
been involved in this important learning experience. The University 
fully embraces the idea of mentored undergraduate research being one of 
the highest forms of teaching, and the institution values success in 
this facet of a faculty member's work. Therefore, the successful 
candidate for this position must be able to articulate a clear vision 
for a sustainable, highly productive, and externally funded 
undergraduate research program. Moreover, the Department is interested 
in expanding its opportunities for undergraduate research to include 
answering evolutionary or ecological questions using modern analytical 
approaches such as bioinformatics, molecular systematics, developmental 
biology, or quantitative or computational biology. Individuals with 
expertise in these areas are encouraged to apply.


In addition to having a passion for undergraduate teaching, research and 
mentorship, the UNC Asheville faculty is committed to disciplinary 
teaching through an inter- and multi-disciplinary lens and providing a 
premiere liberal arts education. Faculty members teach across the 
University's Liberal Arts Core (LAC) program, our required 
interdisciplinary liberal arts curriculum in courses that include, but 
are not limited to: introductory (freshman) colloquia; diversity 
intensives; courses that satisfy the Scientific Perspectives, Social 
Science courses and Arts and Ideas requirements; courses within the 
Humanities Program; and LAC Senior Capstone courses.


UNC Asheville is committed to promoting diversity and a work environment 
that encourages knowledge of, respect for, and the ability to engage 
with those of other cultures or backgrounds. Faculty members across 
campus and especially in STEM disciplines are encouraged to participate 
in leading the institution's efforts in promoting diversity and 
inclusion in the areas of pedagogy, programming, and service activity. 
Therefore, candidates interested in teaching science to and developing 
outreach activity for diverse student populations are especially 
encouraged to apply.


Applications for this position should be submitted electronically at 
https://jobs.unca.edu. Complete applications will include a cover 
letter, curriculum vitae, statement of teaching philosophy, a statement 
of research philosophy that includes a description of future research 
plans, unofficial undergraduate and graduate transcripts, and three 
letters of reference. The applicant's letters of reference should 
address the candidate's written, verbal and interpersonal skills; 
ability to teach and mentor undergraduate students; and potential to 
develop a successful, externally funded research program. Review of 
applications will begin October 16, 2014. Inquires may be directed to 
Dr. Timothy Forrest (tforr...@unca.edu), Chair, Department of Biology.


UNC Asheville is committed to equality and diversity of educational 
experiences for our students. Qualified individuals are encouraged to 
apply regardless of socio-economic status, gender expression, gender and 
sexual identity, culture, or ideological beliefs. UNC Asheville is an 
Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and will not 
discriminate against students, applicants, or employees on the basis of 
race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, age, sex, disability, 
political affiliation, protected veteran status, genetic information, or 
any other legally protected status with respect to all terms, 
conditions, and privileges of university-sponsored activities, 
employment, and the use of university facilities.


--
***
Jonathan Horton Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Biology Department CPO#2040
UNC-Asheville
One University Heights
Asheville, NC 28804
phone: 828-232-5152
email: jhor...@unca.edu

[ECOLOG-L] Today! CUAHSI Virtual Workshop on Field Data Management Solutions

2014-09-23 Thread Emily Clark
CUAHSI Virtual Workshop on
Field Data Management Solutions
Tools, tricks, and techniques for handling data in the field
Jointly sponsored by the LTER Network Office, CZO National Office, and CUAHSI 
Water Data Center
Tuesday, September 23 @ 12pm ET
Jon Pollak, CUAHSI
Cloud Based Data Publication with the CUAHSI 
WDChttps://www.cuahsi.org/Posts/Entry/11532

Join the Talks! Connection Information:
http://cuahsi.adobeconnect.com/cyberseminar/
Connect via phone line:
US Toll Free Number: 1-877-860-3058 Participant Passcode: 644978
Additional Connection 
Informationhttps://www.cuahsi.org/CyberseminarInstructions
Deadline: Abstracts for Virtual Poster Session
Due September 30th!
Do you have field data management solutions to share with others?
Present and discuss a poster using our virtual breakout rooms.
Submit abstracts by September 30th to be considered
Download the Poster Submission 
Guidelineshttps://www.cuahsi.org/Files/Pages/documents/11403/poster_session_submission_guidelines.pdf
 for more information
For more information regarding the Virtual Workshops and Virtual Poster Session:
https://www.cuahsi.org/VW-Solutions


[ECOLOG-L] Post -doctoral Ecogeochemist Position at Univ of California San Diego

2014-09-23 Thread Carolyn Kurle
Post-doctoral Ecogeochemist Position
 
Applications are being accepted for a Postdoctoral Ecogeochemist at the
University of California San Diego in the laboratory of Dr. Carolyn Kurle
(http://labs.biology.ucsd.edu/kurle/). This is a full-time 12-month position
to begin January 2015 (start date negotiable) for a duration of 2 years
(pending annual review) and will be based in La Jolla, California.

The successful applicant will be part of the Kurle research group using
biogeochemical tools to address questions relating to community ecology
within an applied conservation context. We have several ongoing projects.
Two such projects include: a) stable isotope analysis of organic matter to
trace terrestrial pollutants in California coastal waters via stream run off
and b) modeling inter-individual and population level differences in
foraging niches occupied by invasive rats on islands in Alaska. The
successful applicant will be involved with these or related projects and
have the opportunity to write grants to pursue similar research.

A Ph.D. in ecology, marine ecology, biological oceanography, or related
field must be completed prior to start date. This position will involve
significant manuscript and grant proposal writing, direct mentoring of
undergraduate and graduate students, and day to day lab management. Prior
experience with the application of stable isotope analysis to ecological
problems, a strong publication record, and experience with R or other
statistical analysis software are required. 

Salary will be commensurate with experience.

Applicants should submit an application package consisting of 1) a cover
letter detailing research experience and interests, 2) a complete CV, 3)
examples of two prior publications, and 4) contact information for three
references. Applications should be submitted as a single combined PDF and
mailed to cku...@ucsd.edu.

Application review begins October 25 and will continue until the position is
filled.


[ECOLOG-L] Assistant Professor in Ecogeomorphology of River and Watershed Systems

2014-09-23 Thread Jonathan Greenberg
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Assistant Professor
Department of Geography and Geographic Information Science
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

The Department of Geography and Geographic Information Science (GGIS),
in the School of Earth, Society,  Environment, invites applications
for a full-time tenure-track Assistant Professor in ecogeomorphology
of river and watershed systems. Relevant areas of research include,
but are not limited to: the structuring of river and watershed systems
through interactions among plants, animals and geomorphological
processes; the relevance of an integrated understanding of ecological
and geomorphological dynamics to river/watershed management and
restoration; and the resilience of coupled ecological and
geomorphological processes within river/watershed systems to climate
change and human impacts. We especially seek candidates with strong
field, modeling, GIS, and/or remote sensing skills.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is the flagship campus
of the University of Illinois system and offers an extraordinary
environment for ecogeomorphological research and education. GGIS has a
strong, highly ranked research and education program focusing on
river, watershed, and landscape dynamics.  This program is connected
to related campus programs on river, watershed, and ecological systems
anchored in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, the
Illinois State Water Survey, the Illinois State Geological Survey, the
USGS Water Science Center, the Department of Geology, the National
Great Rivers Research and Education Center, the Department of Plant
Biology, the Illinois Natural History Survey, and the Department of
Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences (NRES).  The
ecogemorphology position is part of a campus cluster-hire initiative
on Water, Life, and Land Interactions that includes a companion
position focusing on ecohydrology in NRES.

The successful candidate will be expected to develop an externally
funded research program and teach at undergraduate and graduate
levels. A Ph.D. is required at the time of appointment. Applicants are
expected to present evidence of excellence in research and teaching.
The target starting date is August 16, 2015. Salary is commensurate
with qualifications.
To apply, create your candidate profile through
http://jobs.illinois.edu and submit your application materials: Letter
of application, CV, up to 3 representative publications, statement of
teaching and research interests, and contact information for three
professional references.  Referees will be contacted electronically
upon the submission of the application. Applicants are highly
encouraged to submit applications early to ensure that referees have
enough time to submit letters of recommendation.

To ensure full consideration, all required application materials must
be submitted by October 12, 2014, with interviews likely in November
2014. Letters of references should be received by October 17, 2014.
Inquiries about the position are encouraged to the Ecogeomorphology
Search Committee Chair at geogr...@illinois.edu.
Illinois is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants
will receive consideration for employment without regard to race,
religion, color, national origin, sex, age, status as a protected
veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability.
Illinois welcomes individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences,
and ideas who embrace and value diversity and inclusivity.
(www.inclusiveillinois.illinois.edu).

-- 
Jonathan A. Greenberg, PhD
Assistant Professor
Global Environmental Analysis and Remote Sensing (GEARS) Laboratory
Department of Geography and Geographic Information Science
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
259 Computing Applications Building, MC-150
605 East Springfield Avenue
Champaign, IL  61820-6371
Phone: 217-300-1924
http://www.geog.illinois.edu/~jgrn/
AIM: jgrn307, MSN: jgrn...@hotmail.com, Gchat: jgrn307, Skype: jgrn3007


[ECOLOG-L] Course Geometric Morphometrics in R, January 26-30, Barcelona, Spain

2014-09-23 Thread Soledad De Esteban Trivigno
Dear colleagues,

Transmitting Science offers a new course which migth could be of interest for
some members of this list:

GEOMETRIC MORPHOMETRICS IN R .

INSTRUCTOR: Dr. JULIEN CLAUDE ((Institut des Sciences de l’Évolution de
Montpellier, France).

DATES: January 26-30, 2015; 35 hourse on-site.  End early registration: October
31.

PLACE:  Facilities of the Centre of Restauració i Interpretació Paleontologica,
Els Hostalets de Pierola,  Barcelona (Spain).

Organized by: Transmitting Science, the Institut Catalá de Paleontologia Miquel
 Crusafont and the Centre of Restauració i Interpretació Paleontologica.

More information:  http://www.transmittingscience.org/courses/gm/gm-in-r/   or
 writing to cour...@transmittingscience.org

Concepts in geometric morphometrics will be taught using a series of original
data sets and working in R for solving a series of tasks. The course will start
with an introduction to R and will rapidly go into shape analysis with
measurements, landmark data and outlines. The participants are welcome to bring
their own data and problems so that we may find R solutions.

Please feel free to distribute this information between your colleagues if you
 consider it appropriate.

With best regards

Soledad De Esteban Trivigno, PhD.
Course Director
Transmitting Science
http://www.transmittingscience.org/


[ECOLOG-L] PhD in Conservation Biology (Turtles, Land use, and Climate Change)

2014-09-23 Thread Gavin Jones
*PhD in Conservation Biology (Turtles, Land use, and Climate Change)*

I am seeking an outstanding student to pursue a PhD in conservation biology
in the Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology (FWE) at the University of
Wisconsin-Madison. The student’s dissertation will involve integrating with
population modeling and landscape genetics approaches to assess the
potential impacts of changes in land use and climate on turtles in the
Great Lakes Region. The successful applicant will be responsible for: (1)
collecting additional field data on three species of turtles as part of an
ongoing demographic study; (2) developing a spatially-explicit model
linking turtle populations to changes in land use and climate, and (3)
conducting genetic laboratory analyses and landscape-genetic analyses
needed understand population connectivity. Funding for the successful
applicant is available for four years. Additional research components could
be added depending on shared interests and feasibility.

Applicants must possess bachelor’s degree and preferably a master’s degree
in animal ecology or closely related field. Applicants with strong
quantitative skills will be given preference. To be considered for this
position, please send a cover letter outlining your interests and research
background, a curriculum vitae (including GPA and GRE scores), and contact
information for three professional references (name, email, phone, address)
as either a PDF or MS Word file to mpe...@wisc.edu.

The selected student is expected to enroll at the UW-Madison in the Fall
Semester of 2015. More details on the graduate programs can be found at
http://forestandwildlifeecology.wisc.edu/graduate-overview. Application
materials will be accepted until a suitable candidate is found.

*For more info, contact: *
Zach Peery
Associate Professor
Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology
University of Wisconsin, Madison
Madison, WI 53706
http://labs.russell.wisc.edu/peery/



-- 
Gavin M. Jones
M.S. Candidate
Department of Forest  Wildlife Ecology
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Peery Conservation Biology Lab
Office: A223 Russell Labs


[ECOLOG-L] Call for Papers--Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products in the Environment

2014-09-23 Thread Laurenson, James
Interest in pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) in the 
environment has grown substantially over the past 10 or so years, with about 
half of the 15,000 known scientific and policy reports published in just the 
past few years.  PPCPs are increasingly undergoing scrutiny and regulatory 
control by federal agencies, states, municipalities, and other countries.  For 
example:

- The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), US Environmental Protection Agency 
(EPA), US Department of Interior (DOI), and US Department of Agriculture (USDA) 
recently initiated an interagency workgroup to improve and sustain federal 
coordination and collaboration on pharmaceuticals in water.1

- FDA recently began increasing its assessments of the cumulative impacts of 
prescription drugs in the environment,2 regulating drugs for endocrine 
disruption potential,3 and evaluating National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) 
environmental review processes.4

- EPA has been assessing prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs in the 
environment5 and developing rules under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) that 
include a number of PPCPs.6

But many questions remain regarding a broad range of topics: 7
- Prioritization of PPCPs
- Pathways of exposure
- Antibiotic resistance
- Bioavailability and uptake
- Effects characterization
- Risk management
- Risk and relative risk

And very little literature has been published for the pharmaceutical scientist 
audience.  Therefore, in partnership with The American Association of 
Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS) Journal, we are seeking articles for a 
rolling online theme issue, Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products 
(PPCPs) in the Environment.8  If you are interested in contributing to this 
theme issue, please send me a proposal/abstract for review.

Thanks,
Jim Laurenson
Toxicologist/Environmental Officer
Office of Pharmaceutical Science
Center for Drug Evaluation  Research
U.S. Food  Drug Administration
10903 New Hampshire Ave., Bldg. 21, Rm. 1626
Silver Spring, MD  20993
james.lauren...@fda.hhs.gov

References:
1 FDA, et al. 2012. Memorandum of Understanding on Sustainability of Federal 
Collaboration on Pharmaceuticals in Drinking Water. 
http://www.fda.gov/aboutfda/partnershipscollaborations/memorandaofunderstandingmous/domesticmous/ucm335474.htm
2 Laurenson JP, Bloom RA, Page S, and Sadrieh N. 2014. Ethinyl Estradiol and 
Other Human Pharmaceutical Estrogens in the Aquatic
Environment: A Review of Recent Risk Assessment Data. The AAPS Journal. Online 
January 28, 2014.
3 FDA. 2013. FDA issues proposed rule to determine safety and effectiveness of 
antibacterial soaps (news release). 
http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm378542.htm
FDA. 2013. Guidance for Industry: Endocrine Disruption Potential of Drugs: 
Nonclinical Evaluation (Draft). FDA/CDER, Rockville, MD. 
http://www.fda.gov/downloads/drugs/guidancecomplianceregulatoryinformation/guidances/ucm369043.pdf
4 FDA. 2013. Response to Citizen Petition to the FDA Commissioner Under the 
National Environmental Policy Act and Administrative
Procedure Act Requesting an Amendment to an FDA Rule Regarding Human Drugs and 
Biologics. Docket No. FDA-2010-P-0377.
5 Kostich MS, Batt AL, and Lazorchak JM. 2014. Concentrations of prioritized 
pharmaceuticals in effluents from 50 large wastewater treatment plants in the 
US and implications for risk estimation. Environmental Pollution. 184:354-359.
EPA. 2010. Triclosan Facts. 
http://www.epa.gov/oppsrrd1/REDs/factsheets/triclosan_fs.htm
6 For example, see: EPA. Revisions to the Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring 
Regulation (UCMR 3) for Public Water Systems. 77 Federal
Register 26071; 2012.
7 Boxall ABA, Rudd MA, Brooks BW, Caldwell DJ, Choi K, Hickmann S, et al. 2012. 
Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products in the
Environment: What are the Big Questions? Environ Health Perspect. 120(9):1221-9.
8 See http://www.pharmagateway.net/ListThemedIssues.aspx?JournalID=12248 for 
current theme issues.


[ECOLOG-L] JOB: Assistant Professor of Plant Evolutionary Biology

2014-09-23 Thread Ted Stankowich
Link to job ad online:
http://www.csulb.edu/divisions/aa/personnel/jobs/posting/2179/index.html

CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, LONG BEACH
College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
Department of Biological Sciences
Tenure-Track Position Opening
RECRUITMENT NUMBER: 2179

POSITION: Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences (Plant Evolutionary 
Biologist)

EFFECTIVE DATE: August 17, 2015 (Fall Semester)

SALARY RANGE: Commensurate with qualifications and experience

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Ph.D. in the biological sciences or related 
field and post-doctoral training and research in plant evolution 
utilizing both morphological and molecular traits. Record of peer-
reviewed published research in plant evolutionary biology and potential 
for developing and sustaining an externally funded research program that 
involves students. Demonstrated potential for effective teaching of 
courses in Plant Morphology and Vascular Plant Systematics. Demonstrated 
commitment to working successfully with a diverse student population

DESIRED/PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Knowledge of and experience with a 
broad range of cutting edge phylogenetic methods. Field research 
experience. Potential for developing a research program relevant to the 
Southern California region. Prior teaching at the university level. 
Potential to teach core biology courses at the undergraduate and 
graduate level. Evidence of ability to mentor undergraduate and graduate 
students in research. Record of extramural research support.

DUTIES: Teach courses in Plant Morphology and Vascular Plant Systematics 
(with emphasis on the local flora) and in the undergraduate and graduate 
biology core curricula. Develop an active, externally funded research 
program that involves undergraduate and graduate students resulting in 
scientific presentations and publications. Participate in service to the 
department, college, university, and community.

RESEARCH SUPPORT: Facilities include three rooftop greenhouses built in 
2011, two ground-level greenhouses, outdoor growing space, an AR-66L2X 
Percival growth chamber and one full-time botany technician. The new 
greenhouses are specialized for temperate (1360 sq. ft.), tropical (1360 
sq. ft.), and arid (720 sq. ft.) conditions. The Department of 
Biological Sciences has several 4-wheel drive vehicles for general 
research use.

CSULB seeks to recruit faculty who enthusiastically support the 
University’s strong commitment to the academic success of all of our 
students, including students of color, students with disabilities, first 
generation to college, veterans, students with diverse socio-economic 
backgrounds, and diverse sexual orientations and gender expressions. 
CSULB seeks to recruit and retain a diverse workforce as a reflection of 
our commitment to serve the People of California, to maintain the 
excellence of the University, and to offer our students a rich variety 
of expertise, perspectives, and ways of knowing and learning.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION:
• A Student Success Statement about your teaching or other experiences, 
successes, and challenges in working with a diverse student population 
(approximately one page)
• Letter of application addressing the minimum and desired/preferred 
qualifications
• CV (including current email address)
• Statement of Research Interests
• Statement of Teaching Philosophy
• Reprints of three representative publications
• Copy of transcript from institution awarding highest degree
• Three current references or letters of recommendation sent directly to 
the address below.
• Finalists will also be required to submit a signed SC-1 form, three 
current letters of recommendation(if not already submitted), and an 
official transcript.

Applicant documentation should be assembled into ONE PDF document and 
sent to biologyplantevolsea...@csulb.edu. Letters of recommendation, 
other required documentation, and/or requests for information should be 
addressed to the search committee:
Dr. Judy Brusslan, Chair
California State University, Long Beach
Department of Biological Sciences
1250 Bellflower Boulevard
Long Beach, CA 90840-9502
562-985-4806
biologyplantevolsea...@csulb.edu

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Review of applications to begin October 16, 2014
Position opened until filled (or recruitment cancelled)

CSULB is committed to creating a community in which a diverse population 
can learn, live, and work in an atmosphere of tolerance, civility and 
respect for the rights and sensibilities of each individual, without 
regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, religious creed, sex, 
gender identification, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, 
medical condition, age, political affiliation, Vietnam era veteran 
status, or any other veteran's status. CSULB is an Equal Opportunity 
Employer.


[ECOLOG-L] CALL FOR RESEARCH MENTORS: NAPIRE - Native American and Pacific Islander Research Experience, Costa Rica

2014-09-23 Thread Barbara Dugelby
*CALL FOR RESEARCH MENTORS*


*NAPIRE: Native American and Pacific Islander Research Experience at Las
Cruces Biological Station, Costa Rica*



The Organization for Tropical Studies (OTS) is seeking Research Mentors
(ABD or PhD only) for the Native American and Pacific Islanders Research
Experience (NAPIRE) Program funded by the National Science Foundation’s
Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (NSF LSAMP) at the Las
Cruces Biological Station in Costa Rica. This is an exciting and highly
rewarding research internship program for minority undergraduate
students enrolled
in accredited institutions in the United States and Pacific Island
Territories.



The goal of the NAPIRE Program is to facilitate a successful summer
research experience for Native American and Pacific Islander undergraduate
students and, therefore, strengthen their interest and potential for
pursuing careers in biology or environmental science. The program seeks to
provide a quality, safe environment where students are motivated to learn
scientific skills, such as:


- Critical thinking,

- Hypothesis building and testing,

- Research design and sampling,

- Statistical analysis skills, and

- Scientific writing and presentation.


Mentors will live at the Las Cruces Station where whey will provide
personal, direct guidance in ecological research for one or two (typically)
undergraduate students. Mentors will guide students as they work to develop
an answerable research question, design their research goals and data
collection methods, analyze data, and interpret and present results. In
addition, mentors will also participate in symposia, evaluations, and
ethics discussions.



Mentors do not receive honoraria, but NSF funds their transportation to and
from Costa Rica, as well as room, board, station use, research permits,
in-country transportation, and needed equipment and supplies. The Las
Cruces Station offers excellent installations, logistics, and other
conditions for long-term research projects in forest ecology, climate
change, ecological restoration, habitat fragmentation, and other similar
studies.



NAPIRE Mentors are needed between June 24th and August 6th, 2015. Interested
researchers should send* a letter of interest and a short summary (max 250
words) of potential student research project(s).* This summary will be used
on the OTS website so that students can select their preferred
mentors/projects in their applications. *For researchers who have not
previously served as mentors in the NAPIRE Program, please also provide a
copy of your curriculum vitae and a statement of mentoring philosophy.* To
allow sufficient time for appropriate matches between mentors and accepted
students, please send this information by no later than *October 31, 2014*.
Applications should be sent electronically to barb...@dugelby.com.


-- 
___

*Barbara L. Dugelby, Ph.D. *NAPIRE Program Coordinator
Organization for Tropical Studies
Cell: 830-965-6869
Skype: 830-392-0958
barb...@dugelby.com
ots.ac.cr/napire


[ECOLOG-L] Ad for a Grad Student or Post Doc

2014-09-23 Thread Katherine Hartmann
Good morning,

Please find a job posting for either a graduate student or a post doc
below. Could you please include it in the list serve? Please let me know if
you have any questions. Thank you for your time and support.

*National Science Foundation supported Ph.D. or Postdoctoral position*

We seek applications for one PhD or Postdoctoral position, funded by the
NSF project ‘An Integrative Investigation of Population Connectivity Using
a Coral Reef Fish.’ The position can be based in the Boston Lab in the
Department of Biology at Boston University or the Webb Lab in the
Department of Biology at Colorado State University.



*Project overview*

Understanding the patterns of marine larval dispersal and population
connectivity is central to understanding marine population dynamics, marine
population divergence, and how to design effective networks of marine
reserves. Over the last decade, three methods, each of which tells us
something slightly different, have emerged as the leading contenders to
provide the greatest insights into marine population connectivity: direct
genetic methods, coupled biophysical models, and indirect genetic methods.
We are conducting an integrative investigation of population connectivity,
using all three methods, in one very tractable system: the neon goby,
*Elacatinus
lori*, on the Belizean Barrier Reef. The research has three main
objectives: 1) determine the relationship between distance and the
probability of successful dispersal measured using direct genetic methods;
2) determine the relationship between the probability of successful
dispersal predicted by coupled biophysical models and that measured using
direct genetic methods; and, 3) determine the relationship between spatial
genetic structure predicted by evolutionary ecology models and that
measured using indirect genetic methods.



*Position description*

The PhD or postdoc will work on objective 3 of the project, developing
evolutionary ecology models that use data on patterns of larval dispersal
to predict patterns of genetic structure. The candidate will have strong
interests in ecology and evolution and a strong quantitative and
computational background. We encourage applications from students in
mathematics, physics, engineering and computer science who have
demonstrable interest applying their skills in the fields of ecology and
evolution, as well as applications from students in biology, ecology,
evolution and marine science with an excellent quantitative and
computational background.



*How to apply*

To apply, please e-mail Katie Hartmann (kahar...@rams.colostate.edu) with
PDFs of your CV, transcript, GRE results, and a one page statement of your
career aspirations and why you are interested in the position. If you have
further questions about the position, please contact Peter Buston (
bus...@bu.edu) and Colleen Webb (colleen.w...@colostate.edu).

-- 
Best wishes,
*Katie Hartmann*
Webb Lab Program Aide
Colorado State University

Office: Yates 214
Mailing Address: 1878 Campus Delivery
Fort Collins, CO 80523
kahar...@rams.colostate.edu
Lab Homepage: http://rydberg.biology.colostate.edu/ctwebb/


[ECOLOG-L] Assistant Professor Forest Biology/Ecophysiology

2014-09-23 Thread Nelson Andrew S.
The University of Arkansas at Monticello (UAM) (www.uamont.edu/jobs) School of 
Forest Resources and the
Arkansas Forest Resources Center, University of Arkansas System Division of 
Agriculture, are seeking an
individual to contribute to and lead the development of a dynamic forest 
biology/ecophysiology research
program and to educate the next generation of natural resource managers.

The UAM School of Forest Resources (http://www.afrc.uamont.edu/sfr/) offers a 
B.S. degree in Forest
Resources (Wildlife Management and Forestry options) and a M.S. degree in 
Forest Resources. The School is
housed in the recently renovated H.H. Chamberlin Forest Resources Complex and 
new George H. Clippert
Annex, a 45,500 square foot facility with offices, laboratory space, and 
classrooms. The Arkansas Forest
Resources Center (http://www.afrc.uamont.edu), a statewide Center of Excellence 
of the University of
Arkansas System, is the focus of the State’s vision in forest‐based research 
and extension activities. Arkansas
features approximately 18 million acres of forests. UAM is located in 
southeastern Arkansas, with nearby
access to extensive Coastal Plain southern pine and pine‐hardwood forest, 
bottomland hardwood forests of
the Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley, and shortleaf pine‐hardwood forests of 
the Ouachita Mountains.

Responsibilities: The successful candidate will be expected to establish an 
innovative, dynamic, and nationally recognized
research program in one or more of the following fields: tree improvement, 
forest population
genetics, tree physiology, and/or forest‐environment interactions; develop 
grant proposals and secure
funding; and publish in peer‐reviewed, nationally‐recognized scientific 
journals. The candidate will have access
to a new forest biology lab. Additional responsibilities include recruiting and 
mentoring graduate students,
advising undergraduate students, and contributing to cooperative research 
efforts by faculty and other
stakeholders in the region. Teaching duties include undergraduate and graduate 
courses in support of the
program. The tenure‐track, 12 month position will carry the rank of assistant 
professor with an appointment of
70% research and 30% teaching.

Qualifications: Applicants should have a Ph.D. in forest biology or related 
field. All candidates should value
high‐quality teaching. The demonstrated potential to secure extramural funding 
and an active record of
publication are required. Also required is the ability to work effectively with 
other faculty members, students,
and representatives of governmental and non‐governmental organizations. 
Applicants must be authorized to
work in the United States and have a valid driver’s license. The position is 
available as early as January 2015.
Salary: Commensurate with qualifications/Excellent fringe benefits.

Application: Send a letter of application, vita, a statement of research 
interest and teaching philosophies, copy
of unofficial transcripts, and names, addresses, telephone numbers and email 
addresses of three professional
references (off‐list references may be checked) to: Rhonda Parris, 
par...@uamont.edu. All applications must
be submitted electronically. Inquiries: Phone (870) 460‐1052; email: 
par...@uamont.edu.

Review of applicants will begin October 24, 2014 and continue until the 
position is filled.


[ECOLOG-L] Assistant Professor Quantitative Natural Resources Science

2014-09-23 Thread Nelson Andrew S.
The University of Arkansas at Monticello (UAM) (www.uamont.edu/jobs) School of 
Forest Resources and
the Arkansas Forest Resources Center, University of Arkansas System Division of 
Agriculture, are seeking an
individual to contribute to and lead the development of a dynamic, applied 
quantitative natural resources
research program and to educate the next generation of natural resource 
managers.

The UAM School of Forest Resources (http://www.afrc.uamont.edu/sfr/) offers a 
B.S. degree in Forest
Resources (Wildlife Management and Forestry options) and a M.S. degree in 
Forest Resources. Arkansas
features approximately 18 million acres of forests, with 7 million acres of 
upland hardwood forests, 3
million acres of mixed pine‐hardwood forests, 3 million acres of bottomland 
hardwood forests, and 5
million acres of pine forests (plantation and natural combined). The Arkansas 
Forest Resources Center
(http://www.afrc.uamont.edu/), a statewide Center of Excellence of the 
University of Arkansas System, is
the focus of the State’s vision in forest‐based research and extension 
activities.

Responsibilities: The successful candidate will be expected to establish an 
innovative, dynamic, and
nationally‐recognized applied research program in quantitative natural 
resources science; develop grant
proposals and secure funding; and publish in peer‐reviewed, 
nationally‐recognized scientific journals.
Additional responsibilities include recruiting and mentoring graduate students, 
advising undergraduate
students, and contributing to cooperative research efforts by faculty and other 
stakeholders in the region.
Teaching duties include undergraduate and graduate courses in statistics, 
biometrics, and related courses in
support of the program. The tenure‐track, 12 month position will carry the rank 
of assistant professor with
an appointment of 70% research and 30% teaching.

Qualifications: Applicants should have a Ph.D. in a natural resource‐related 
field (e.g., wildlife, forestry,
ecology). All candidates should value high‐quality teaching with the ability to 
teach applied statistics
courses to undergraduate and graduate students. The demonstrated potential to 
secure extramural
funding and an active record of publication are required. Also required is the 
ability to work effectively
with other faculty members, students, and representatives of governmental and 
non‐governmental
organizations. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States and 
have a valid driver’s license.
The position is available as early as January 2015.

Salary: Commensurate with qualifications/Excellent fringe benefits.

Application: Send a letter of application, vita, a statement of research 
interest and teaching philosophies,
copy of unofficial transcripts, and names, addresses, telephone numbers and 
email addresses of three
professional references (off‐list references may be checked) to: Rhonda Parris, 
par...@uamont.edu. All
applications must be submitted electronically. Inquiries: Phone (870) 460‐1052; 
email:
par...@uamont.edu.

Review of applicants will begin October 24, 2014 and continue until the 
position is filled.


[ECOLOG-L] Assistant Professor - Remote Sensing and GIS

2014-09-23 Thread Nelson Andrew S.
The University of Arkansas at Monticello (UAM) (www.uamont.edu/jobs) School of 
Forest Resources and the
Arkansas Forest Resources Center, University of Arkansas System Division of 
Agriculture, are seeking applicants
for a tenure‐track faculty position in Remote Sensing and GIS with emphasis on 
natural resources and
geospatial technologies.

The School of Forest Resources (http://www.afrc.uamont.edu/sfr/) is home to 
undergraduate programs in
forestry, wildlife management, spatial information systems, and land surveying, 
and offers a M.S. level
graduate program with emphasis areas in forest science, geospatial science, 
natural resource management,
and wildlife ecology and management. New undergraduate options in environmental 
science and
communications in natural resources are being developed. The School is housed 
in the recently renovated
H.H. Chamberlin Forest Resources Complex and new George H. Clippert Annex, a 
45,500 square foot facility
with offices, laboratories, teaching and research computer laboratories, and 
classrooms. The Arkansas Forest
Resources Center (http://www.afrc.uamont.edu/), a statewide Center of 
Excellence of the University of
Arkansas System, is the focus of the State’s vision in forest‐based research 
and extension activities.

Responsibilities: The successful candidate will be expected to establish an 
innovative research program
focused on the integration of natural resources management with geospatial 
technologies; develop grant
proposals and secure funding; and publish in peer‐reviewed, 
nationally‐recognized scientific journals.
Additional responsibilities include recruiting and mentoring graduate students, 
advising undergraduate
students, and contributing to cooperative research efforts by faculty and other 
stakeholders in the region.
Teaching duties include introductory and advanced courses in remote sensing and 
GIS, and related courses in
support of the program. The tenure‐track, 12 month position will carry the rank 
of assistant professor with an
appointment of 70% research and 30% teaching.

Qualifications: Applicants should have a Ph.D. in a natural resource‐related 
field with extensive experience in
remote sensing and GIS, or in a geospatial science with extensive experience in 
natural resources
management. All candidates should value high‐quality teaching, have an ability 
to secure funding, and have an
active record of publication. The ability to work effectively with other 
faculty members, students, and
representatives of governmental and non‐governmental organizations is required. 
Applicants must be
authorized to work in the United States and have a valid driver’s license. The 
position is available as early as
January 2015.

Salary: Commensurate with qualifications/Excellent fringe benefits.

Application: Send a letter of application, vita, a statement of research 
interest and teaching philosophies, copy
of unofficial transcripts, and names, addresses, telephone numbers and email 
addresses of three professional
references (off‐list references may be checked) to: Rhonda Parris, 
par...@uamont.edu. All applications must
be submitted electronically. Inquiries: Phone (870) 460‐1052; email: 
par...@uamont.edu.

Review of applicants will begin October 24, 2014 and continue until the 
position is filled.


[ECOLOG-L] Assistant Professor - Natural Resources Communications

2014-09-23 Thread Nelson Andrew S.
The University of Arkansas at Monticello (UAM) (www.uamont.edu/jobs) School of 
Forest Resources and the
Arkansas Forest Resources Center, University of Arkansas System Division of 
Agriculture, are seeking an individual to
contribute to and lead the development of a natural resources communications 
program for the next generation of
natural resource managers.

The School of Forest Resources (http://www.afrc.uamont.edu/sfr/) is home to an 
undergraduate program in forest
resources with concentrations in forestry, wildlife management, and spatial 
information systems. The School offers a
M.S. level graduate program with emphasis areas in forest science, geospatial 
science, natural resource management
and wildlife ecology and management. The Arkansas Forest Resources Center 
(http://www.afrc.uamont.edu/), a
statewide Center of Excellence of the University of Arkansas System, is the 
focus of the State’s vision in forest‐based
research and extension activities.

Responsibilities: The successful candidate will be expected to establish an 
innovative, dynamic research program in
natural resources communications; develop grant proposals and secure funding; 
and publish in peer‐reviewed,
nationally‐recognized scientific journals. Additional responsibilities include 
recruiting and mentoring graduate
students, advising undergraduate students, and contributing to cooperative 
research efforts by faculty and other
stakeholders in the region. Teaching duties include courses in communications 
in natural resources, contemporary
issues, social sciences in natural resources, and related courses in support of 
the program. The successful candidate
will have the opportunity to lead in the development and implementation of an 
undergraduate degree option in
natural resource communications. The tenure‐track, 12 month position will carry 
the rank of assistant professor with
an appointment of 60% teaching and 40% research.

Qualifications: Applicants should have a Ph.D. in a natural resource‐related 
field with extensive experience in
communications, or in a communications‐related field with extensive experience 
in natural resources. The successful
applicant must value rigorous, high‐quality teaching, have strong written and 
oral communication skills, demonstrate
knowledge of and familiarity with a variety of communication tools, and have 
expertise in measurement and data
analytics in the scientific study of the process of communication. Applicants 
should also have a proven track record
of successfully distilling and communicating issues related to natural 
resources to subject‐area specialists, natural
resource managers, and the general public. The ability to secure research 
funding and publish in respected scientific
journals is expected. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United 
States and have a valid driver’s license.
The position is available as early as January 2015.

Salary: Commensurate with qualifications/Excellent fringe benefits.

Application: Send a letter of application, vita, a statement of research 
interest and teaching philosophies, copy of
unofficial transcripts, and names, addresses, telephone numbers and email 
addresses of three professional
references (off‐list references may be checked) to: Rhonda Parris, 
par...@uamont.edu. All applications must be
submitted electronically. Inquiries: Phone (870) 460‐1052; email: 
par...@uamont.edu.

Review of applicants will begin October 24, 2014 and continue until the 
position is filled.


[ECOLOG-L] Computational Biologist position, Northern State University

2014-09-23 Thread Anderson, Alyssa M
Northern State University invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track 
Assistant Professor of Computational Biology.

Qualifications: An earned Ph.D. in Biology, Conservation Biology, or another 
closely related discipline, with specialization in one or more of the following 
fields: Biostatistics, Bioinformatics, Mathematics, Molecular Ecology, 
Conservation Genetics, or Biosystematics; a research focus related to 
environmental sciences; demonstrated strong research background and publication 
record; demonstrated ability to work within multidisciplinary teams; 
demonstrated potential to develop external funding for a research program; 
effective interpersonal skills and oral and written communication skills. 
Desired Qualifications: Post-doctoral or equivalent experience, Plant 
Computational Biology experience, demonstrated grantsmanship (experience with 
federal funding agencies preferred), and demonstrated teaching experience. ABD 
with a definite completion date may be considered.

Responsibilities: Teach such courses as Biological Statistics, Geographic 
Information Science (GIS) and Bioinformatics/Proteomics/Cheminformatics, with 
possible expansion to Microscopy, Applied Mathematics, Physics and others, 
depending on the expertise of the candidate and departmental needs. The person 
in this position will perform innovative research with undergraduate 
researchers to address biological questions, specifically those pertaining to 
wildlife (plant and animal). Such research would be connected to activities at 
the South Dakota State University BioSNTR including cell signaling, analysis of 
transcriptional responses, and modeling cell membrane activities as it relates 
to animal and plant functional and environmental responses. The successful 
applicant will be expected to design experiments and environmental biology 
analysis of sizeable data sets and relative workflows from proteomic, genomic, 
epigenomic, and/or other high-throughput molecular assays to investigate 
hypotheses related to aquatic and terrestrial biome diversity and dynamics. 
This person will be expected to share these workflows and data sets with the 
greater BioSNTR network and closely collaborate with the BioSNTR team as the 
NSU technical representative.

Application: Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until 
the position is filled. December 22, 2014 is the anticipated start date. For 
more information regarding this position, and to apply, visit: 
https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu/applicants/jsp/shared/frameset/Frameset.jsp?time=1411499900015
   Click on Northern State University in the Quick Search section. The system 
will guide you through the electronic application form. AA/EOE


[ECOLOG-L] Assistant Professor in Wildlife Ecology and Management, West Virginia University

2014-09-23 Thread Jim Anderson
West Virginia University is seeking a broadly-trained wildlife ecologist to 
fill a nine-month tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor. We 
anticipate that the position will begin on July 1, 2015.  The successful 
candidate is expected to develop a vibrant externally funded, nationally and 
internationally recognized research program that complements existing program 
strengths in wildlife ecology. Applicants with expertise in single taxonomic 
groups, particularly birds, will be considered, but preference is for a 
candidate with a broad background and interest in wildlife.  Candidates with 
research interests in quantitative ecology, climate change, behavioral ecology, 
community ecology, or landscape ecology are of particular interest.  The 
incumbent will mentor master's and doctoral students, publish research results 
in refereed journals, teach an undergraduate course in vertebrate natural 
history, an advanced undergraduate/graduate course in ornithology, and a 
graduate course in their area of expertise.  An earned doctorate in wildlife 
sciences or related disciplines, a strong record of peer-reviewed publications, 
and the potential for obtaining and sustaining a research program from external 
grants is required.  Teaching experience is highly desirable. Applications will 
be accepted until November 15, 2014 or until the position is filled. Visit 
http://forestry.wvu.edu/r/download/198400 for the complete job description and 
information on how to apply.
 An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer


[ECOLOG-L] Locating Silene stellata populations

2014-09-23 Thread Nicola Seitz
Hello everyone,


I am trying to locate different *Silene stellata* populations throughout
the eastern USA for my PhD project and was wondering if anyone can give me
indications of where to find recently noted plants? I would greatly
appreciate GPS coordinates (or detailed directions to sites) of potential
populations and/or names of other folks to contact as well regarding
potential study sites.


It would be great if you could help me for my PhD project. Thank you very
much!


Sincerely,

Nicola Seitz


[ECOLOG-L] M.S./Ph.D Assistantships (4) in Sustainable Agriculture - Penn State University

2014-09-23 Thread John Wallace
Position: Graduate research assistantship (M.S./Ph.D.) positions are
available in Agronomy, Entomology, Soil Science, or Ecology.

Available: Spring or Fall, 2015.

Project Description: We are seeking graduate students to participate in a
multi-disciplinary, sustainable cropping systems project focused on
developing alternative approaches for integrating cover crops and reduced
tillage practices in an organic feed and forage system. Our overall goal is
to develop pest (weed and insect) and soil management practices that
overcome current reduced-tillage production constraints in organic grain
systems in the Mid-Atlantic region. Project activities will include
on-station and on-farm research and extension.  In addition to field-based
research, there will be opportunities to: 1) develop and deliver extension
programs on organic agriculture, and 2) participate in the development of a
web-based decision support tool for organic growers.

Assistantship Focus Areas: 1) Entomology (Ph.D) – Evaluate effects of cover
crop and reduced-tillage strategies on early season insect pests, key
beneficial organisms, and soil-borne insect pathogens; 2) Agronomy
(Ph.D/M.S.) – Evaluate effects of cover crop and reduced-tillage strategies
on cover crop and cash crop performance, and weed management; 3) Nutrient
Cycling (Ph.D/M.S.)  – Evaluate effects of cover crop and reduced-tillage
strategies on nutrient supply and retention dynamics; 4) Cropping Systems
Modeling (Ph.D) – Utilize research to apply and improve a cropping system
model focused on nutrient cycling and management in cover crop based,
reduced-tillage organic grain systems.  Integration among student projects
encouraged.

Qualifications: B.S. or M.S. degree in plant or soil science, entomology,
biological sciences, environmental sciences, ecology, or other
agriculture-related discipline.  Strong written and oral communication
skills necessary.  Minimum 3.0 GPA.  GRE test scores are required.

Salary and benefits: Competitive with tuition waiver and health care benefits.

Location: The Penn State University Park Campus is located in State College
in Central Pennsylvania.  State College is a community of approximately
40,000 year round residents along with 40,000 university students in the
heart of the Allegheny Mountains.  The geographic setting is one of fertile
agricultural valleys situated between tree-covered ridges.  Agriculture is
Pennsylvania's number one industry.

For additional information contact (by focus area):
Entomology: Dr. Mary Barbercheck, email: me...@psu.edu and phone: (814) 863-2982
Agronomy: Dr. Bill Curran, email: wcur...@psu.edu and phone: (814) 863-1014
Nutrient Cycling: Dr. Jason Kaye, email: jp...@psu.edu and phone: (814) 863-1614
Cropping Systems Modeling: Dr. Armen R. Kemanian, email: akeman...@psu.edu,
phone: (814) 963-9852

Application Submission: Send letter of interest, resume, and transcripts to:
Project Manager: Dr. John Wallace, email: jmw...@psu.edu and phone: (814)
863-4309


[ECOLOG-L] Job: Program Manager, North Pacific Research Board

2014-09-23 Thread David Inouye

OPEN POSITION: Program Manager, North Pacific Research Board

Please see the announcement and description below:

This position will be responsible for implementation and management 
of research programs related to marine ecosystem dynamics and 
sustainable use of resources in the Gulf of Alaska, Bering Sea, 
Aleutian Islands, and Arctic Ocean. The program manager will 
collaborate with scientists at government agencies, academic 
institutions, and private organizations. A successful candidate will 
have strong scientific training, an accomplished publication record, 
and experience in planning and implementing marine research with 
natural resource management applications.


Please see the 
http://www.nprb.org/assets/images/uploads/Program_Manager_PD_Aug_2014.pdfposition 
description for examples of duties and desired knowledge, skills and 
abilities. Candidates should submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, 
salary history and contact information for three work-related 
references to Human Resources Director Cindy Ecklund. Applications 
will be accepted until October 10, 2014 with an anticipated start 
date of December 1, 2014.


Congress created NPRB in 1997 to recommend marine research 
initiatives to the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, who makes final 
funding decisions. Please find more about the 
http://www.nprb.org/nprb/about-us/historyhistory and 
http://www.nprb.org/nprb/about-usscience programs of NPRB at these links.


http://www.nprb.org/news/detail/nprb-seeks-program-managerhttp://www.nprb.org/news/detail/nprb-seeks-program-manager

This email was sent by North Pacific Research Board, located at 1007 
W 3rd Ave, Suite 100, Anchorage, Alaska 99501 (USA). To receive no 
further emails, please 
http://x.jmxded22.net/u.z?j=310263627m=C72F18F4C0B64CB585E51A506EC6297Bclick 
here or reply to this email with unlist in the Subject line.

--
Susan Dixon
Executive Assistant
North Pacific Research Board
1007 W. 3rd Ave, Suite 100
Anchorage, AK 99501
907-644-6701
mailto:susan.di...@nprb.orgsusan.di...@nprb.org
http://www.nprb.org/


[ECOLOG-L] How Pure is Ecological Theory? Are there outside influences?

2014-09-23 Thread Huston, Michael
I’m still looking for a few more speakers interested in this topic to fill
out an Organized Oral Session proposal for the 2015 ESA meeting. See the
description below.  If you are interested in making a presentation, either
in this session or perhaps a related session if there is enough interest,
please email me your tentative title ASAP, ideally by Wednesday, since the
proposals are due this Thursday. 

   Michael Huston




Environmental Influences on Ecological Theory: The Effects of Climatic,
Geological, Historical, Social, Political, and Economic Conditions

A organized oral session proposed for the 100th Anniversary Meeting of 
The
Ecological Society of American, developed by Michael Huston and others

Description:

The relatively short history of the field of Ecology is full of 
conflicting
paradigms, paradigm shifts, and vigorous arguments between leading
ecologists and “schools” of ecology.  Although ecological hypotheses are
developed and tested using the time-honored processes of the scientific
method, multiple alternative, and sometimes conflicting, hypotheses are
often proposed as explanations for a particular phenomenon or class of
phenomena.  Ecologists work on all of the major continents and all of the
world’s oceans, each of which has its own unique geological, climatic,
biogeographical, and in most cases, political history.  Furthermore,
ecologists typically work out of an academic institution or governmental
agency in a specific country, with different institutions, agencies, and
countries having different missions and political and social values, as well
as differing funding structures and overall financial resources.  Could
these different and often contrasting social, economic, political, and
environmental settings influence the hypotheses that are developed to
address ecological phenomena?  To what extent might conflicting hypotheses
and clashing paradigms be the inevitable results of concepts that are
developed, tested, and elaborated under differing social, political,
economic, and presumably environmental conditions?
Speakers in this half-day session of organized oral presentations will
present case studies that examine some of the well-known and less-well-known
examples of how environmental conditions, defined broadly, have influenced
the types of ecological questions that are asked and the types of hypotheses
that have been developed, as well as the conflicts that alternative
theoretical perspectives have generated.  Examples could include such topics
as 1) the influence of social conditions in England on the development of
Thomas Malthus’ influential ideas, and their subsequent influence on Charles
Darwin and many others; 2) the effect of the contrasting geological
histories and environmental drivers of Australia and North America on
hypotheses about the regulation of species abundance and diversity; 3)
differences in the types of questions asked and the types of hypotheses
developed at institutions with an applied versus a basic science focus; 4)
the influence of historical literary and artistic movements on concepts
about how “nature” operates; and 5) the effect of political-economic systems
on the types of hypotheses that are developed (and funded).  Related
examples could potentially be found in research done in eutrophic verus
oligotrophic systems, in plants versus animals, at high latitudes versus low
latitudes, or in different biomes.
Speakers will explore the ways in which these conflicting theories could
potentially contribute to more inclusive and broadly applicable theories in
ecology. 


[ECOLOG-L] Postdoc: ecological impacts of the US west coast groundfish fishery

2014-09-23 Thread Trevor Branch
Postdoc: ecological impacts of the US west coast groundfish fishery

The School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences has an outstanding 
opportunity for a postdoctoral Research Associate to join a 
collaborative project with the Northwest Fisheries Science Center (NOAA) 
and the School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences (University of 
Washington).

The School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences (SAFS), in the College of the 
Environment, University of Washington, is a nationally recognized 
institution that provides bachelors, masters, and doctoral instruction 
to an international student population. The faculty, staff and students 
of the School support a vibrant and diverse research program, with total 
annual support exceeding $3.2 million in state funding and $12 million 
in sponsored research funding. The School also maintains unique field 
stations in Alaska, and manages small vessels that support instructional 
and research activities.

The University of Washington includes a diverse population of 80,000 
students, faculty and staff, including 25% first-generation college 
students and faculty from over 70 countries. The University seeks to 
recruit and retain a diverse workforce to maintain the excellence of the 
University, and to offer students richly varied disciplines, 
perspectives and ways of knowing and learning.

The successful candidate will be encouraged to generate novel research 
questions related to groundfish fisheries off the West Coast of the U.S. 
The fishery now collects rich data from 100% observer coverage of 
catches and discards. Fishery independent information is also available. 
Projects could include (but not be limited to) assessing the ecosystem 
impacts of the fishery, developing ecosystem indicators, producing 
inputs to improve fisheries stock assessments, relating environmental 
conditions to stock productivity, and assessing the impact of catch 
shares on the fishery.

Requirements:
• PhD in related field (e.g. ecology, fisheries, conservation biology)
• Strong quantitative background in statistics, mathematics or 
programming

Desired: Applicants with a strong foundational understanding of ecology, 
life history theory, animal behavior or interactions between human and 
natural systems will be preferred. Strong skills in R and data 
management (e.g. queries) will be useful.

The duration of this position is 1 year with the possibility of renewal 
for an additional year, with a salary of $57,000 per year plus benefits 
(including medical insurance).

The position would be supervised by Profs Trevor Branch and Timothy 
Essington at the School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences, University of 
Washington, in collaboration with Michelle McClure (Director of the 
Fishery Resource Analysis and Monitoring Division, NWFSC). The position 
will be based in Seattle, WA.

To apply, send a CV, cover letter including a statement of research 
interests, and 1-3 scientific papers to tbra...@uw.edu by 31 October 
2014.