[ECOLOG-L] Post-Doc: Disturbance/restoration ecologist @ Ohio State (re-posting)
PDRA: Disturbance/restoration ecologist Job Description Post/Job Title: Post Doctoral Research Associate Position #: 00102228 Location: The Ohio State University, Kottman Hall, 2021 Coffey Road, Columbus, OH, 43210 Department: School of Environment and Natural Resources Supervision: Prof. G. Matt Davies (SENR) Pay rate: $4,000 per month + benefits Preferred starting date: 1st September 2018 (negotiable) Period of employment: 12 months BACKGROUND Research in the Applied Disturbance and Fire and Ecosystem Restoration (ADFER) Lab at The Ohio State University (http://fireregimes.org.uk) focuses on assessing the responses of plant communities to variation in disturbance regimes. We currently have two key areas of focus: i) Peatland ecosystem function and management; and ii) Understanding how fire impacts natural and anthropogenic systems. Past research has focused on developing empirical models of fire behaviour, relating variation in fire behavior (intensity, severity) to ecosystem responses and evaluating how systems respond to altered fire regimes. We work across multiple ecosystems including semi-arid shrublands, temperate peatlands, tropical grasslands, and mid-Western prairies. A position is available in the lab to participate in multiple areas of our research. Initial focus will be on two projects: 1) “Long-term SUCCESS” (http://blogs.uw.edu/ecolsage): we are investigating how repeated wildfires and species invasions in the sagebrush steppe are driving changes in ecosystem state. Utilizing a long-term data set from the Columbia Basin (Washington State), we are interested in assessing how plant traits can be used to draw generalizable predictions about how plant communities respond to fire and post-wildfire restoration. Key challenges include cataloguing species traits for hundreds of species where little quantitative data exist, using multivariate methods to assess how traits are filtered by disturbance, and modeling the landscape-scale distribution of invasive species and plant communities. 2) "PRO Peat Bog": we are assessing how plant and microbial species composition varies across Ohio’s rare remaining peat bogs. We are interested in how communities differ within and between peat bogs, particularly in relation to hydrochemical gradients and the peatlands’ landscape context. Across both projects, the primary role of the PDRA will be to contribute to data analysis, preparation of peer-reviewed publications and participation in grant funding applications. There will also be ample opportunity to participate in field and lab work. SUMMARY OF DUTIES An experienced field and lab scientist is required to assist with surveys of vegetation composition, multivariate data analysis and preparation of reports and scientific papers. The PDRA will present research results at national and/or international conferences and will contribute to the preparation of new funding proposals. In addition they will be involved in the supervision and training of undergraduate and graduate students in field and lab procedures. Essential duties - 30% Analyse data to determine how ecological communities are arranged across abiotic gradients and are modified by disturbances such as wildfire - 30% Collect, organize and conduct analyses of data and communicate research results to scientific community through reports, journal articles and seminars. - 15% Participate in fieldwork and lab analysis of soil and plant specimens - 15% Assist in preparation of grant funding proposals to support on-going research - 5% Manage ADFER lab facilities, and equipment - 5% Advise and interact with graduate and undergraduate students in research activities. QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE Degree requirements - A PhD in ecosystem/community ecology, rangeland ecology or wildland fire science. This should preferably have a focus on fire and/or peatland ecology. Experience required - Strong quantitative skills and familiarity with statistical techniques appropriate to plant community data (permutational MANOVA, Indicator Species Analysis, NMDS, Redundancy Analysis, Principle Response Curves etc.) - Demonstrated ability to publish research in peer-reviewed journals - Experience designing, conducting, and monitoring vegetation research projects. - Ability to direct ecological field work with expertise in plant community ecology - Excellent botanical skills. - Use of R for statistical analysis - Experience with GIS software - Competent computer skills, with demonstrated capability in the use of word processing, spreadsheet, and database management software - Excellent organizational, communication, and presentation skills. Proven ability to write and speak effectively, targeting both scientific and management audiences. - Proven ability to set and reach goals, work independently without close supervision, and give acute attention to detail and deadlines. - Ability and willingness to conduct field work in a variety of conditions,
[ECOLOG-L] Job Opening: Postdoctoral Research Associate (restoration/plant community ecology)
of, or experience developing, state-and transition models - Spatial data analysis and species distribution modeling - Experience with additional relevant statistical packages (e.g. PRIMER, Canoco, PC-Ord) - Knowledge of fire behaviour and ecology - Familiarity with the flora of the intermountain West and/or North American peatlands would be a strong advantage - Basic knowledge of soil microbiology DEADLINE AND ENQUIRIES Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a suitable candidate is identified. Applicants should provide a copy of their CV and a letter of application (2 pages max) which briefly addresses how they meet the required experience and qualifications. Informal enquiries should be directed to Matt Davies (Phone: 614 292 3567; Email: davies@osu.edu)
[ECOLOG-L] Tenure Track Position in Rhizosphere Processes
The following position is available at The Ohio State University (Wooster, OH) ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF SOIL SCIENCE – RHIZOSPHERE PROCESSES 75% Research, 25% Teaching. POSITION DESCRIPTION This is a full-time, 9-month, tenure-track position in the School of Environment and Natural Resources (SENR) based at the Ohio State University Wooster campus. The faculty member will focus research on the soil-plant-water-animal-human nexus to enhance climate resilience of agroecosystems through adaptation and mitigation strategies that improve resource use efficiency, sustain productivity, restore soil ecosystem services and improve carbon sink capacity. We are specifically interested in candidates who will conduct research on soil-plant-microbial interactions to address local, regional and national issues in agricultural and environmental sciences. This position aligns with OSU’s Discovery Themes Initiative (discovery.osu.edu), a significant faculty hiring investment in key thematic areas in which the university can build on its culture of academic collaboration to make a global impact. The successful candidate will join a highly collaborative transdisciplinary team of over 50 existing faculty and many external partners working toward Resilient, Sustainable and Global Food Security for Health as part of the Initiative for Food and AgriCultural Transformation (InFACT) Discovery Theme. QUALIFICATIONS: - Candidates should have a Ph.D. in Soil Science, Biogeochemistry, Microbiology or a related field, and extensive experience investigating root-soil interactions in agricultural, natural, or human-impacted landscapes. We seek candidates who are interested in engaging diverse stakeholders across the state and region to work collaboratively toward environmental and agro-ecological solutions. - Research experience using experimental techniques in soil-root systems is required. Expertise in several of these areas is desirable: nutrient biogeochemistry, microbiology, soil carbon dynamics and permanence, soil health methodology and frameworks, application of modeling techniques, and ecosystem remediation and restoration. Candidates should have demonstrated research experience relevant to field-scale management of agricultural and natural ecosystems. - Demonstrated record of interdisciplinary research, working with scientists in chemistry, microbiology, agronomy, plant biology, and/or sociology. - A record of peer-reviewed publications and demonstrated potential for developing extramural funding are essential. - Experience or demonstrated ability with teaching and mentoring members of underrepresented groups is preferred. APPLICATIONS AND DEADLINE Further details and information on how to apply can be found here: https://www.jobsatosu.com/postings/82259 Applications will be reviewed starting December 8, 2017, and continue until a suitable candidate is identified Please direct inquiries to one of the Search Committee Co-chairs Brian Slater - slater...@osu.edu Steve Culman - culma...@osu.edu
[ECOLOG-L] Job: Post-doc/Post-MS - Peat bog ecology in Ohio - Immediate Start
Due to the appointee dropping out at the last minute our group has an immediate and urgent opening for an ecologist to join our "PRO-Peat bog" project. PRO Peat Bog is an interdisciplinary research project, funded by the OARDC SEEDS grant program and the Ohio Water Resources Center, that aims to assess the current ecological status and ecosystem functioning of Ohio’s remaining peat bogs. Our project will study variation in the plant and microbial (e.g. bacteria) communities of Ohio’s bogs in relation to the level of each sites’ historic degradation. We will relate the composition of these communities to the rate at which they are producing or storing greenhouse gases. The position will provide immersion in an interdisciplinary “applied ecology” project spanning 3 lab groups; full or partial leadership of manuscript writing; involvement in proposal writing to major national funders (DOE, NSF); co-mentoring of students; as well as extensive career mentorship for the researcher themself, with an emphasis on clear communication of their science. The researcher will also have the opportunity and framework for engaging with the large and vibrant community of environmental scientists at The Ohio State University. POSITION DUTIES 50% - Supervise and participate in fieldwork to establish and monitor peat bog vegetation structure, water chemistry and GHG fluxes 20% - Collect, organize and conduct analyses of data and communicate research results to scientific community through journal articles and seminars. 10% - Support efforts to map the current and historical range of peat bogs in Ohio 10% - Travel to field sites for fieldwork and data generation. 5% - Manage GC-MS analysis of GHG samples 5% - Advise and interact with graduate and undergraduate students in research activities. QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE A PhD (preferred) or MS in ecosystem/community ecology, microbiology or environmental science Desirable experience: - Research experience in peatland ecology, ecohydrology or microbiology - Experience of measuring GHG fluxes using chamber techniques and gas chromatography - Plant identification (ideally both higher and lower plants) and vegetation surveying - Data management including the development of Access databases - Statistical analysis such as multivariate techniques used in community ecology and mixed effects modeling - Use of appropriate statistical software e.g. R, PRIMER, Canoco - Basic skills in GIS (e.g. ArcGIS or QGIS) - Evidence of familiarity with fieldwork planning and logistics - Research and writing skills to publication standard - Supervision/mentoring of research volunteers and/or student researchers - Interdisciplinary research collaboration - Research collaboration with stakeholders including public and private land-owners DEADLINE AND ENQUIRIES Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a suitable candidate is identified. Applicants should provide a copy of their CV and a letter of application (2 pages max) which briefly addresses how they meet the required experience and qualifications. Informal enquiries should be directed to Dr. G. Matt Davies (Phone: 614 292 3567; Email: davies@osu.edu)
[ECOLOG-L] Job Opportunity - Restoration Ecologist
Job Title: Restoration Ecologist - Columbus Metroparks (Ohio) Closing Date/Time: Sunday 01/08/17 11:59 PM Eastern Time Salary: $17.19 - $26.01 Hourly Job Type: Full-Time Location: Metro Parks Headquarters, 1069 W. Main St., Westerville, 43081, Ohio Inquiries should be directed to: tel...@metroparks.net To apply visit: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/metroparks/default.cfm?action=viewJobjobID=1609145_count=yes=1=0=0=%3CwddxPacket%20version%3D%271%2E0%27%3E%3Cheader%2F%3E%3Cdata%3E%3Cstruct%3E%3Cvar%20name%3D%27CATEGORYID%27%3E%3Cstring%3E-1%3C%2Fstring%3E%3C%2Fvar%3E%3Cvar%20name%3D%27PROMOTIONALJOBS%27%3E%3Cstring%3E0%3C%2Fstring%3E%3C%2Fvar%3E%3Cvar%20name%3D%27TRANSFER%27%3E%3Cstring%3E0%3C%2Fstring%3E%3C%2Fvar%3E%3Cvar%20name%3D%27FIND_KEYWORD%27%3E%3Cstring%3E%3C%2Fstring%3E%3C%2Fvar%3E%3C%2Fstruct%3E%3C%2Fdata%3E%3C%2FwddxPacket%3E EXAMPLES OF DUTIES Plan, develops, and implements habitat restoration and resource management projects including reforestation, prairie restoration and wetland restoration and public use area tree projects throughout Metro Parks under the supervision of the Resource Manager. Evaluates the arboriculture and reforestation needs of the parks on an ongoing basis (e.g., reforestation, hazardous trees, fertilization and aeration, watering, disease control, pruning, reforestation, plantings, etc.) and evaluates the forest resources and arboricultural needs of the Metro Parks. Assists with the development and design of habitat restoration planning which may include species selection, evaluating sources of plant material, obtaining quotes and bids, evaluating bids, vendor selection, implementation of plan and follow-up resource management training on habitat management with park staff as needed. Coordinates and removes undesirable vegetation and trees from open lands and tree plantings. Implements the direction of Metro Parks' prairie restoration projects during planting, seed picking and burning. Assists with the coordination of the restoration work in each park; oversees the work of outside contractors on plantings and tree removal projects; assists staff in related resource management activities (e.g. clearing trails, vistas, picnic areas, hauling equipment and supplies, etc.), assists with equipment and park maintenance activities as necessary. Works closely with other Resource Management staff to complete biotic surveys and inventories of various species of habitats including vernal pools, woodlands, restoration areas and natural areas. Coordinates the hazardous tree program in concert with Park Managers, Resource Management staff, and Naturalists. Recommends and coordinates appropriate plan of action to reduce any identified hazards; reviews and follows up with individual park staff on hazardous tree inspection records. Monitors progress and identifies tree diseases and pests, evaluates impact to trees in natural and public use areas, evaluates and recommends courses of action, implements appropriate program to lessen impact ot Metro Parks' forest and tree resources. May operate ropes and saddle, tree planter, aerial lift, and related equipment to perform complex and/or unusual tree planting, maintenance, and removal activities as needed. May provide training to various staff that includes but is not limited to: chain saw training and safety practices, hazardous tree identification and removal, prescribed burn training, pesticide training, proper tree care and maintenance, planting and pruning, and training courses during the new intern training program. May provide input to Landscape Architect/Planners during master plan development. Performs related administrative duties (e.g. maintenance records and documents, reports, requisition of materials and supplies, specifications for equipment, etc.). Contributes articles for park publications and outside organizations and may present or assist with the presentation of education programs and workshops related to resource management and habitat restoration. Provides arboriculture and Resource Management information to the public such as proper care of trees, selection of suitable species, plantings, etc. Performs special projects and related duties as required or assigned. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS Education/Experience: Possession of a Bachelor's Degree in Restoration Ecology, Natural Resources, Forestry, Wildlife Biology or related field, with a related Master's Degree preferred and some demonstrated full-time employment experience in performing habitat restoration, resource and land management practices, and/or reforestation, as well as experience in planning, implementing, and monitoring a diversity of habitat restoration projects. Language Skills: Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing with visitors and members of the public, other management staff, employees throughout the park district, and subordinates; ability to explain technical information in everyday language
[ECOLOG-L] MS positions Ecosystem Restoration - Ohio State
The School of Environment and Natural Resources (SENR) at The Ohio State University currently offers MS and PhD programs with a specialization in Ecological Restoration. Our faculty have expertise in terrestrial vegetation ecology, soil remediation and rehabilitation, forestry, wildland fire management, wetland science and the environmental social sciences. Fully funded positions are advertised when available but SENR applicants are also able to apply for Graduate Teaching Associate positions and Fellowships. Such awards provide a stipend and cover tuition and fee costs (http://senr.osu.edu/funding_assistant_fellow). A number of faculty are currently interested in receiving applications from potential graduate students with qualifications that match the requirements of the GTA and Fellowship programs. The following faculty welcome enquiries from students interested in Ecosystem Restoration: Nick Basta, G. Matt Davies, Charles Goebel, Brian Slater: 1. Holistic rehabilitation and restoration of contaminated, brownfield and urban sites (Basta) 2. Controls on reproductive effort in woodland pawpaw stands (Davies) 3. Management and restoration of sagebrush-steppe ecosystems (Davies) 4. Mineland reclamation (Davies) 5. The use of fire as a management and restoration tool (Davies, Goebel) 6. Function and restoration of wooded riparian areas in agricultural landscapes (Goebel) 7. Hydrology and ecology of headwater streams and riparian areas in forested landscapes (Goebel) 8. Soil resilience in agricultural systems (Slater) We particularly welcome applications from U.S. citizen candidates who will bring diversity to our graduate community. Graduate Enrichment Fellowships are available to support such students. Candidates should meet the following criteria: • GPA - minimum 3.1 on a 4.0 scale • GRE - 40% or higher on the Verbal and Quantitative and a score of 3 or greater on the Analytical For the University Fellowships you should meet the following criteria (successful applicants are likely to have higher metrics and some research or professional experience): • GPA - minimum 3.6 on a 4.0 scale • GRE - 75% or higher on the Verbal and Quantitative and a score of 4 or greater on the Analytical Application process Potential applicants should first consult the School’s directory and contact the faculty member relevant to their interests: http://senr.osu.edu/our-people/faculty. When enquiring please include a brief (1-2 page) C.V. and state your GPA and GRE (if available) scores. Please indicate which fellowship scheme you are interested in being considered for. Deadline for application: January 7th 2017 (earlier preferred)
[ECOLOG-L] Ohio State MS Student recruitment - Ecosystem Restoration
OPEN INVITATION TO APPLY FOR MS POSITIONS IN ECOLOGICAL RESTORATION The School of Environment and Natural Resources (SENR) at The Ohio State University currently offers MS and PhD programs with a specialization in Ecological Restoration. Our faculty have expertise in terrestrial vegetation ecology, soil remediation and rehabilitation, forestry, wildland fire management, wetland science and the environmental social sciences. Fully funded positions are advertised when available but SENR applicants are also able to apply for Graduate Teaching Associate positions and Fellowships. Such awards provide a stipend, generous health benefits and cover tuition and fee costs (http://senr.osu.edu/funding_assistant_fellow). The following faculty welcome enquiries from students interested in Ecosystem Restoration: Nick Basta, G. Matt Davies, Charles Goebel, Brian Slater: 1. Holistic rehabilitation and restoration of contaminated, brownfield and urban sites (Basta) 2. Controls on reproductive effort in woodland pawpaw stands (Davies) 3. The ecological structure, function and restoration of agricultural field margins (Davies) 4. The use of fire as a management and restoration tool (Davies, Goebel) 5. Function and restoration of wooded riparian areas in agricultural landscapes (Goebel) 6. Hydrology and ecology of headwater streams and riparian areas in forested landscapes (Goebel) 7. Soil resilience in agricultural systems (Slater) We particularly welcome applications from U.S. citizen candidates who will bring diversity to our graduate community. Graduate Enrichment Fellowships are available to support such students. Candidates should meet the following criteria: • GPA - minimum 3.1 on a 4.0 scale • GRE - 40% or higher on the Verbal and Quantitative and a score of 3 or greater on the Analytical For the University Fellowships you should meet the following criteria (successful applicants are likely to have higher metrics and some research or professional experience): • GPA - minimum 3.6 on a 4.0 scale • GRE - 75% or higher on the Verbal and Quantitative and a score of 4 or greater on the Analytical Application process Potential applicants should first consult the School’s directory and contact the faculty member relevant to their interests: http://senr.osu.edu/our-people/faculty. When enquiring please include a brief (1-2 page) C.V. and state your GPA and GRE (if available) scores. Please indicate which fellowship scheme you are interested in being considered for. Deadline for application: January 7th 2017 (earlier preferred)
[ECOLOG-L] Funded MS position - restoration potential of Ohio's peat bogs
PRO Peat Bog: indicators for assessing the Potential for Restoration of Ohio’s peat bogs DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS MARCH 9TH PRO Peat Bog aims to understand the current status of Ohio’s peat bog ecosystems, and to identify straightforward indicators of their condition and restoration potential. Peat bogs play diverse and important roles in our natural environment. In addition to providing specialized habitat for a variety of unique and rare plants and animals (such as carnivorous pitcher plants or prothonotary warblers), peat bogs provide a range of “ecosystem services” that benefit the State. Although they now cover relatively little of Ohio’s land area (Figure 1), their services are disproportionate to their size. They clean water, help control flooding during high rainfall events, and they store a large amount of below-ground carbon in their peat deposits. This carbon can be lost to the atmosphere as greenhouse gases when the bogs are degraded (for example due drainage, fire or agricultural conversion). Adding their carbon to the atmosphere could help accelerate climate change potentially threatening these ecosystems even further. Our project will study variation in the plant and microbial (e.g. bacteria) communities of Ohio’s bogs in relation to the extent of historic degradation. We will relate the composition of these communities to the rate at which they are producing or storing greenhouse gases (Figure 2). Outcomes of this study will include: i) updated status of historically-known Ohio peat bogs; ii) an understanding of how plants and microbes influence interact to influence carbon storage in bogs; and iii) description of indicators of their restoration potential that could be used by managers assessing new sites. Desired qualifications Two years of funding are available to support an MS student through the Environmental Science Graduate Program. Interested applicants should meet the following requirements: • GRE score above 311 on the new GRE test or 1200 on the old test, combined verbal and quantitative, and 3.5 on analytical writing. • An undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university with a major/degree in natural, physical or social sciences. • Evidence of courses in calculus and/or statistics; physical sciences; and biological sciences. Successful applicants should also ideally have: • Experience monitoring vegetation • Good botanical skills • A basic understanding of peatland ecosystems • Competent computer skills, with demonstrated capability in the use of word processing, spreadsheet, statistical, database management, and GIS software. • Excellent organizational, communication, and presentation skills. • Ability and willingness to conduct field work in a variety of conditions, including frequent travel, often for extended periods of time, and sometimes in primitive conditions. Specific Duties • Assist mapping vegetation zones across a range of bog sites • Analyze bog vegetation community structure in relation to biotic and abiotic variables and disturbance history • Characterize variation in peat characteristics across sites with varying disturbance histories • Run lab incubations to assess CO2 and CH4 production potentials from representative peat soils. • Participate in a field crew collecting vegetation cover data using established methodologies. • Establish permanent vegetation monitoring plots and photopoints. • Present research results to interested parties via field tours, scientific presentations, written reports, and publications in peer-reviewed journals. • Contribute to project website and social media. Further information on post-graduate study in the ESGP can be found here: https://esgp.osu.edu/home CONTACT: Interested individuals should send a CV, brief statement of qualifications, and contact information for three references to: Dr. G. Matt Davies School of Environment and Natural Resources, The Ohio State University, 412B Kottman Hall, 2021 Coffey Road, Columbus, OH, 43210 Phone: (001) 614 292 3567 Email: davies@osu.edu Twitter: @fireregimes Web: http://www.fireregimes.org.uk
[ECOLOG-L] Funded MS position - sagebrush steppe response to wildfires
SUPERVISOR: Dr. G. Matt Davies LOCATION: The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS: March 21st 2016 START DATE: September 1st 2016 Summary of Position: I am accepting applications for a Master’s student to participate in a project evaluating vegetation dynamics within the sagebrush steppe in eastern Washington. The position is fully funded for two years, includes an annual stipend plus tuition and fees and involves collaboration with researchers at the University of Washington. The successful student will also work with managers from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Bureau of Land Management. Our research aims to synthesize new and historical data to increase our understanding of how these communities respond to repeated wildfires and post-fire rehabilitation actions. The position will involve several months fieldwork in eastern Washington as well as the opportunity to develop analytical skills relevant to urgent conservation problems. The student will be expected to work closely with research collaborators to produce solid analyses and clear reports with succinct recommendations for land managers. In addition, they will produce compelling scientific articles for publication in peer-reviewed journals. Whilst contributing to the overall success of our Joint Fire Science Program funded study, the student will have freedom to develop their own, relevant research questions. We particularly encourage applications from students interested in: 1. Using plant traits to model long-term ecosystem dynamics 2. Modeling changes in the landscape-scale distribution of species and communities in response to disturbance We seek a highly motivated individual with strong interests in plant community or fire ecology and strong quantitative skills. The successful applicant will be a member of The Ohio State University’s Forest Ecosystem Restoration and Ecology Lab (http://oardc.osu.edu/ferel) and the Soil and Plant Community Restoration research program (http://www.fireregimes.org.uk). Field work is planned for Spring 2017 in south-central Washington state. The climate of central Washington is semi-arid and can be extremely hot; accessing the field sites will require walking several miles a day in such conditions over rugged terrain. Standard requirements for entry in the School of Environment and Natural Resources MS Program include: - Cumulative undergraduate GPA - 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. - Strong performance on the GRE exam - Verbal score of 156 (66.1 percentile) / 554 (69 percentile), Quantitative score of 158 (69.9 percentile) / 682 (64.7 percentile) with a prefered Analytical score of 4. - Undergraduate degree in ecology, natural resources management, forestry, biology, or related field. - Experience/course work in statistical analysis of ecological data - Field work experience preferably including monitoring vegetation - Good botanical skills and familiarity with the biological systems, flora, and fauna of the intermountain West a strong advantage. - Excellent organizational, communication, and presentation skills. - Ability and willingness to conduct field work in a variety of conditions, including frequent travel, often for extended periods of time, and sometimes in primitive conditions. - Ability to drive a vehicle on and off road. Interested applicants should send a CV, transcripts and 1-page letter of interest to davies@osu.edu. Informal enquiries are also welcome.
[ECOLOG-L] MS opportunities in Ecosystem Restoration at Ohio State
OPEN INVITATION TO APPLY FOR MS POSITIONS IN ECOLOGICAL RESTORATION The School of Environment and Natural Resources (SENR) at The Ohio State University currently offers MS and PhD programs with a specialization in Ecological Restoration. Our faculty have expertise in terrestrial vegetation ecology, soil remediation and rehabilitation, forestry, wildland fire management, wetland science and the environmental social sciences. Fully funded positions are advertised when available but SENR applicants are also able to apply for Graduate Teaching Associate positions and Fellowships. Such awards provide a stipend and cover tuition and fee costs (http://senr.osu.edu/funding_assistant_fellow). A number of faculty are currently interested in receiving applications from potential graduate students with qualifications that match the requirements of the GTA and Fellowship programs (see below). The following faculty welcome inquiries from students interested in Ecosystem Restoration: Nick Basta, Matt Davies, Warren Dick, Charles Goebel, Brian Slater We particularly welcome inquiries from students wanting to study the following topics: 1. Holistic rehabilitation and restoration of contaminated, brownfield and urban sites (Basta) 2. The ecological structure, function and restoration of agricultural field margins (Davies) 3. Restoration of Ohio’s threatened bog ecosystems (Davies) 4. The use of fire as a management and restoration tool (Davies, Goebel) 5. Function and restoration of wooded riparian areas in agricultural landscapes (Goebel) 6. Flow permanence and ecology of headwater streams and riparian areas in forested landscapes (Goebel) 7. Soil resilience in agricultural systems (Slater) Those interested in applying should meet the following minimum criteria (successful applicants are likely to have considerably higher metrics and existing research or professional experience): - GPA - minimum 3.6 on a 4.0 scale - GRE - 75% or higher on the Verbal and Quantitative and a score of 4 or greater on the Analytical Potential applicants should consult the School’s directory and contact the faculty member relevant to their interests: http://senr.osu.edu/our-people/faculty. When inquiring please include a brief (1-2 page) C.V. and state your GPA and GRE (if available) scores. The deadline for consideration for fellowships and SENR Graduate Teaching Associate positions is January 7th 2016 (earlier preferred)
[ECOLOG-L] Funded MS position - post-wildfire dynamics in sagebrush-steppe
Hi, I am accepting applications for a Master’s student to participate in a project evaluating vegetation dynamics within the sagebrush steppe in eastern Washington. The position is fully funded for two years, includes an annual stipend plus tuition and fees and involves collaboration with researchers at the University of Washington. The successful student will also work with managers from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Bureau of Land Management. Our research aims to synthesize new and historical data to increase our understanding of how these communities respond to repeated wildfires and post-fire rehabilitation actions. The position will involve several months fieldwork in eastern Washington as well as the opportunity to develop analytical skills relevant to urgent conservation problems. The student will be expected to work closely with research collaborators to produce solid analyses and clear reports with succinct recommendations for land managers. In addition, they will produce compelling scientific articles for publication in peer-reviewed journals. Whilst contributing to the overall success of our Joint Fire Science Program funded study, the student will have freedom to develop their own, relevant research questions. We particularly encourage applications from students interested in: 1. Using plant traits to model long-term ecosystem dynamics 2. Modeling changes in the landscape-scale distribution of species and communities in response to disturbance We seek a highly motivated individual with strong interests in plant community or fire ecology and strong quantitative skills. The successful applicant will be a member of The Ohio State University’s Forest Ecosystem Restoration and Ecology Lab (http://oardc.osu.edu/ferel) and the Soil and Plant Community Restoration research program (http://www.fireregimes.org.uk). Further details are available here: http://fireregimes.org.uk/OSU_sage_MS.pdf Interested individuals should feel free to contact me: Dr. G. Matt Davies Assistant Professor Soil and Plant Community Restoration School of Environment and Natural Resources The Ohio State University Phone: (001) 614 292 3567 Email: davies.411 [at] osu.edu
[ECOLOG-L] Job: Assistant Professor Soil Mineralogy (carbon sequestration)
The School of Environment and Natural Resources in the College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Science at The Ohio State University is seeking an individual with research and teaching interests in pure and applied soil and environmental mineralogy. Research emphasis on bio-based and solid-earth based material science regarding organic and inorganic C, and organometallic speciation in soils and terrestrial environmental media. Expertise in traditional soil mineralogical techniques, and advanced molecular scale micro-analytical mineralogy and spectroscopy is desirable. We are especially interested in individuals capable of interfacing with faculty having core interests in other disciplines including natural resource sciences. The incumbent is expected to develop an internationally recognized research and teaching program. Specific expectations and responsibilities include development an externally-funded, nationally recognized research program in soil science and novel materials for soil carbon capture and preservation. This will be a full time, 9 month, tenure-track appointment. The incumbent will be engaged in the Discovery Themes program on Sustainable and Resilient Economy (https://discovery.osu.edu/focus-areas/sustainable-economy). The deadline for applications is October 26, 2015 More information available here: https://discovery.osu.edu/career-opportunities/open-positions/soil-and-environmental-mineralogy-asst-prof.html To discuss this position contact Nicholas Basta, Search Committee Chair, at basta.4 [at] osu.edu
[ECOLOG-L] Job: Assistant Professor in Soil and Environmental Mineralogy
The School of Environment and Natural Resources at The Ohio State University is currently seeking applications for the position of Assistant Professor in Soil and Environmental Mineralogy. The position has a focus on soil carbon capture and sequestration. 1) Developing an externally-funded, nationally recognized research program in soil science and novel materials for soil carbon capture and preservation. The individual is expected to seek appropriate interdisciplinary alliances including team research within School of Environment and Natural Resources, and the Sustainable and Resilient Economy program. Publication of research in refereed scientific journals is expected. 2) Teaching relevant to soil / environmental science and other academic majors in SENR including an undergraduate course in soil / environmental science, and graduate level courses in (i) soil / environmental mineralogy and (ii) permanence of carbon capture in soil and the environment. 3) Faculty responsibilities include advising and mentoring undergraduate students, including honors students, as well as assist with advising student organizations. Advise and mentor graduate students in the Environment and Natural Resources Graduate Program with the opportunity to also contribute to graduate education in other related graduate degree programs at The Ohio State University. More information is available in the attachment. Enquiries should be directed to: Nicholas Basta, Search Committee Chair, bast...@osu.edu
[ECOLOG-L] Pseudoreplication in publication - your experiences
Dear all, As part of a short article I'm writing on the problem of pseudoreplication I'm interested in getting an idea of colleagues' perceptions and experiences of the issue. I'd be very grateful for any contributions to the questionnaire survey on the subject which can be found here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/F6QT8P8 The anonymous survey is primarily aimed at ecologists (in the broadest sense of the term) but folks from other disciplines are welcome to contribute to (though it would be useful if you commented on this in one of the boxes somewhere). If you have any queries about the survey please feel free to get in touch using the details below. Many thanks for your help, Matt Davies Dr G. Matt Davies Assistant Professor (Soil and Plant Community Restoration) School of Environment and Natural Resources The Ohio State University 412B Kottman Hall 2021 Coffey Road Columbus, OH, 43210 Phone: (001) 614 292 3567 Web: www.fireregimes.org.uk Twitter: @fireregimes
Re: [ECOLOG-L] Agriculture in a Steady State Economy
This isn't my area of expertise but I fear that the issue is probably more complex than Burak suggests. Though farm animals utilise C from grass and hay (which has been sequestered from the atmosphere) it is a significant simplification to state that this means that livestock production isn't a major source of GHGs. We need to consider the whole agricultural system, not just what the animals might eat. Potential issues might include (off the top of my head): 1) Farm animals are fed a range of things (e.g. alfalfa, corn, silage) which are relatively in-put/energy intensive to produce, harvest and process 2) Land-use for forage crops can lead to the destruction of range and forest land with subsequent C-loss implications from vegetation and soil 3) Livestock management, processing and transport uses considerable amounts of fossil energy 4) Livestock eat C that was sequestered as CO2 but release not insignificant amounts of it as CH4 Some forms of production may have less of a carbon footprint than others. There is likely a big difference between intensive feedlot production of cattle compared to extensive rangeland grazing systems. If anyone can suggest some could papers studying the carbon balance of livestock systems I'd be very interested. Matt Pekin, Burak K wrote: The claim that livestock are the largest contributor to greenhouse emissions, particularly CO2, is misleading. Much of the CO2 emitted by farm animals is from renewable sources, i.e. grass/hay, while CO2 emissions from the transport industry are from non-renewable sources, primarily oil. _ Burak K. Pekin Postdoctoral Research Associate Department of Forestry and Natural Resources Purdue University -Original Message- From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news [mailto:ecolo...@listserv.umd.edu] On Behalf Of Rob Dietz Sent: Monday, October 04, 2010 12:59 PM To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU Subject: [ECOLOG-L] Agriculture in a Steady State Economy Please take a look at Brent Blackwelder's essay in The Daly News -- it's about how today's farming practices would be different in a steady state economy. You can find the essay here: http://steadystate.org/food-and-agriculture-in-a-steady-state-economy/ Thanks, Rob -- Robert Dietz Executive Director CASSE steadystate.org -- Dr G Matt Davies College of Forest Resources University of Washington Room 034, Merrill Hall Box 354115, Seattle, WA 98195-4115 Tel: (001) 206-685-8755 E-mail: gmdav...@u.washington.edu http://faculty.washington.edu/gmdavies
