Month: February 2017

HJ Andrews Experimental Forest LTER REU position

We are seeking applicants for an NSF-funded Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) position in summer 2017 to examine small carnivore (e.g., weasel, western spotted skunk, Pacific marten) ecology at the H.J. Andrews Experimental Forest on the west slope of the Oregon Cascades near Blue River, Oregon. This project will focus on non-invasive approaches (i.e., camera trapping) to understand the spatial distribution and estimate populations densities of these small carnivores. This research will contribute to a larger PhD project on the small mammal and small carnivore food webs in the Pacific Northwest forest. As such, the student will be encouraged to participate in small carnivore captures and subsequent radiotelemetry.

The position will be based at the H.J. Andrews Experimental Forest and travel will be required for short trips to Oregon State University (Corvallis, Oregon). The Andrews Forest was established in 1948 as an US Forest Service Experimental Forest, and since 1980 is one of the National Science Foundation’s Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) sites. The field station has modern apartments with full kitchens, a well-equipped computer lab, and wireless internet (seehttp://andrewsforest.oregonstate.edu/ for more information on the site, facilities and research programs at the HJ Andrews Experimental Forest). The landscape is home to iconic Pacific Northwest old-growth forests of cedar and hemlock, and moss-draped ancient Douglas firs; steep terrain; and fast, cold-running streams.

The goal of this program is to provide undergraduate students an opportunity to participate in 10 weeks of mentored, paid, independent research. The program includes a weekly seminar series and an opportunity for the student to interact with a multitude of scientists, OSU faculty, federal scientists, and graduate students conducting research in the area. Participants will closely work with the PIs of the project (Drs. Taal Levi, Damon Lesmeister, and Clint Epps) and a PhD student (Marie Tosa) on the grant. The REU student will conduct supervised and guided research and be encouraged to tailor the research project to his/her own interests.

This position lasts for 10 weeks, starting May 29 through August 4, 2017, working at least 40 hours/week. Exact dates are flexible. The student will be responsible for 1) meeting all requirements of the mentors and 2) writing a final research report on his/her research experience. Housing and a weekly stipend of $550 will be provided ($5500 total). There are also some funds to defray the cost of traveling to the H. J. Andrews Experimental Forest.

Position Requirements: Applicants should have a valid driver=92s license, the ability to carry a heavy pack (40+ lb) for moderate distances over uneven terrain, and be comfortable spending long days on their feet in the field. The position will involve working in inclement weather. Previous field experience and experience climbing trees are a plus. A general understanding of ecology is desirable. Eligibility is limited to currently enrolled undergraduates that have a graduate date no sooner than fall 2017. All applicants must be U.S. Citizens or permanent residents. Women, underrepresented minorities, and persons with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply.

To apply: Please submit a brief cover letter (1 page) indicating your interest, experience and professional goals after graduation, curriculum vitae or resume, transcripts (unofficial are acceptable) and 3 professional references (names, addresses, phone number, and email address) as 1 document to: tosam@oregonstate.edu. Please include in the subject: HJA REU 2017 Application. Only complete applications will be considered. Review of applications will start Feb. 19, 2017 and continue until a suitable candidate is identified.

Questions should be directed to: Marie Tosa, email: tosam@oregonstate.edu, subject: HJA REU 2017.

Job Announcment for Recreational Fisheries Field Surveyors…

We are seeking to fill several statewide vacancies for Recreational Fisheries Field Surveyors.

Please see the attachment for more details, as well instructions on how to apply.

Please circulate far and wide to assist us in finding good candidates.

Thank you.

David

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

14 Barnabas Rd.

Marion, MA 02738

Tel: 508-990-9054

Fax: 508-990-9055

 

MA Recreational Fisheries Survey Technician

Title: Seasonal Fisheries Technician

Full-time – Part-time: Part-time (20-40 hrs. week). No benefits

Shift:  Variable Day and Night

City – Town Location: Various coastal ports throughout Massachusetts. From North Shore south, to all of Cape Cod, Islands, Plymouth and Bristol Counties.

Facility Location:  MA Division of Marine Fisheries – Work is field based

Region:  Coastal ports in MA

Pay:  $12.00 – $14.00 per hour commensurate with experience

Application Deadline:  March 3rd or until filled.

 

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:

A.I.S. Inc. is contracted by the State of Massachusetts, Division of Marine Fisheries (MA DMF) to support the collection of recreational fisheries data for the NOAA Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP). A.I.S. will provide MA DMF with fisheries technicians to interact with fishermen and conduct Access Point Angler Intercept Surveys (APAIS) at coastal locations and, or, at sea aboard recreational party boats during fishing trips.  Sampling time and locations are randomly selected by NOAA Fisheries protocol and will occur at boat ramps, marinas, beaches, jetties and fishing piers throughout MA.  Interviewers obtain actual catch information from anglers such as species caught, and count of fish kept or released.   Biological information such as length and weight measurements of whole harvested fish are also obtained.  The catch data are used to produce a statewide estimate of the total fish caught, harvested and released for recreationally important marine species.  The survey data are used extensively by fishery biologists and managers to assess stock condition, evaluate regulations, and plan future management actions that lead to sustainable recreational fisheries. 

 

DUTIES:

1.      Interview anglers using scripted survey questions.  Collect biological, demographic, and economic fisheries data at coastal locations throughout MA, or aboard “for hire” party boats at sea.

2.      Accurately record and code data on standardized forms.  Self audit data prior to submission.

3.      Follow strict sampling schedule, specific sampling times and locations, according to scientific protocol.

4.      Electronically submit weekly summary reports of activity.  Mail data on time, according to deadline.

5.      Operate and maintain field equipment and sampling gear.

Compensation: $12.00 – $14.00 per hour commensurate with experience, plus paid mileage.

QUALIFICATIONS:

 

1.      Applicants should have at least one year of full-time, or equivalent part-time technical experience in marine biology or fisheries work. One year of the required experience may consist of the substitution below:

Two years of study in marine, fisheries or wildlife biology; fisheries or wildlife management; marine science or oceanography may be substituted for the required experience.  Candidates without the above experience will be considered on a case by case basis.

2.      Ability to identify marine fish and invertebrates common in Massachusetts’ coastal waters.

3.      Experience working on fishing vessels and small craft with common sampling tools (measuring boards and scales).

4.      Knowledge of computer software applications including: Microsoft Office Suite

5.      Experience filling out data forms in the field and compiling data in tabular and graphical form.

6.      Ability to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions including rainy and windy conditions, heat and cold.

7.      Good public relations skills.  Ability to interact favorably with anglers, boat crews and captains.

8.      Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends and holidays to accommodate sea sampling trips.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

1.      Job requires work on most weekends, when a majority of recreational fishing takes place, and some longer/earlier/later than normal work days.

2.      Some applicants will be primarily shore based, while others will be designated to survey anglers from both shore and at sea.  Candidates selected to survey on vessels, must be able to perform sampling offshore in less than ideal weather and vessel operating conditions.

3.      Applicants must be physically fit and capable of lifting heavy fish specimens, both alive and dead, standing for 6 hours, climbing and descending ladders to access shore sample sites, walking on soft sand, conduct interviews in noisy environments and to safely navigate slippery surfaces at boat ramps, rock jetties and while boarding vessels.

4.      Applicants must have a valid driver’s license and reliable source of transportation.

5.      All candidates must be approved by the MA Division of Marine Fisheries.

 

To Apply: Please submit a resume, cover letter, 5 professional references (name, e-mail address and phone number) and unofficial copies of your college transcripts.  Click the following link (https://goo.gl/eIXS9B ) to complete our application and to submit the required documents.

Application deadline is open until filled.

VEVRAA Federal Contractor

Request Priority Protected Veteran Referrals

Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Females/Protected Veterans/Disabled

Additional questions regarding the position can be directed to Jay Litchfield at 508-990-9054.

Internships in Tropical Conservation – Peru 2017

The Alliance for a Sustainable Amazon (ASA), a non-profit organization working in the southeastern Peruvian Amazon, is seeking interns to assist its international team of biologists and conservationists with various projects spanning biological research and monitoring and sustainable tropical agriculture. Interns are based at Finca Las Piedras, the ASA=92s field site in Peru=92s Madre de Dios Department.

LENGTH OF STAY: 4, 8 or 12 weeks

DATES: Starting June 19, 2017

FEES: Starting at $1,300

WEBSITE: www.sustainableamazon.org<http://www.sustainableamazon.org>

THREE OPPORTUNITIES:

1. INTRODUCTION TO SUSTAINABILITY INTERNSHIP (4 weeks – $1,300)

This 4-week program offers participants a broad introduction to biological research and conservation in the tropics. Our teaching and learning approach is both academic and hands-on. Interns will participate directly in scientific research and applied conservation projects that span the Alliance for a Sustainable Amazon=92s two focal areas: biological research and monitoring and sustainable tropical agriculture. With the help of academic faculty, interns will also navigate tropical biology and conservation science through lectures and weekly reading discussions covering articles drawn from the primary scientific literature. This is an excellent opportunity to explore an exciting variety of potential career paths in biology and conservation under the guidance of experts in those fields.

2. ADVANCED SUSTAINABILITY INTERNSHIP (8 weeks – $2,200)

This 8-week program offers participants a more in-depth survey of biological research and conservation in the tropics. Interns will learn by participating directly in scientific research and applied conservation projects that span the Alliance for a Sustainable Amazon=92s two focal areas: biological research and monitoring and sustainable tropical agriculture. With the guidance of academic faculty, interns will also navigate tropical biology and conservation science through lectures and weekly reading discussions covering articles drawn from the primary scientific literature.

Independent Research Project: As well as the activities listed above, participants in the Advanced Sustainability Internship Program will have the added opportunity to develop an Independent Research Project on a topic of their choosing, under the supervision of our academic faculty.

3. ACADEMIC QUARTER INTERNSHIP (12 weeks – $3,000)

This 12-week program offers participants the most thorough exploration of biological research and conservation in the tropics. Interns will learn by participating directly in scientific research and applied conservation projects that span our two focal areas: biological research and monitoring and sustainable tropical agriculture. Under the guidance of our academic faculty, interns will also explore topics tropical biology and conservation science through lectures and weekly reading discussions covering articles drawn from the primary scientific literature. All interns maintain a field journal, including daily entries that aim to synthesize their learning experiences and sharpen their observational skills.

Independent Research Project: As well as the activities listed above, participants in the Academic Quarter Internship Program will have the added opportunity to develop an Independent Research Project on a topic of their choosing, under the supervision of our academic faculty. This will allow interns to build upon what they have learned at the beginning of the program and apply it to a project in an area that is novel or interesting to them.

MORE INFORMATION & HOW TO APPLY:

For more details about our Internship Programs in the Peruvian Amazon please visit our website http://www.sustainableamazon.org<http://www.sustainableamazon.org/> . For general inquiries please contact us at info@sustainableamazon.org

We look forward to meeting you in Peru!

Temporary Field Technicians

Battelle and its affiliate, Battelle Ecology, Inc. manages and operates the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEONTM) project, which is solely funded by the National Science Foundation. A 30+ year project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology, the observatory=92s scientists and engineers are collecting a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems.  Our teams use cutting-edge technology, including an airborne observation platform that captures images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data.  Once structures are completed, a leading-edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information.=20 The Observatory includes more than 500+ personnel and is the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales.

We are currently seeking Temporary Field Technicians. This position located in South Salt Lake City, Utah.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

This position reports to the Manager Field Operations of the assigned domain. Temporary Field Technicians assist with field observation; sample collection and handling; sample processing and sample shipment of a variety of taxa.

The Temporary Field Technician will perform a variety of scientific and technical tasks. The Temporary Field Technician is a biological sampling technician performing seasonal and periodic sampling activities. Temporary field sampling is conducted with direction from and assistance of Field Technician I, II and III. The Temporary Field Technician will also perform field and laboratory activities. The Lead Temporary Field Technician may provide guidance to temporary field technician crews.

Daily and weekly work schedules will fluctuate. Work days may be up to twelve hours long. Work days may be split with morning and evening work. At times, work may begin at dawn and go through dusk. The work week may also include weekends, holidays and occasionally may be scheduled up to 12 consecutive days and could include weekends and holidays.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Follow established, standardized field procedures for sample collection; record data from sample collection; process samples in the domain lab; and prepare samples for shipment to external analytical labs.

Field sampling activities include the following observation and specimen collection activities:

Rodent live trapping

Invertebrate collections

Sediment, soil and water sample collection

Plant diversity observations

Plant biomass and primary productivity measurements

Lake/stream bathymetry and morphology

Riparian mapping

Operate laboratory equipment including Wiley Mill, drying oven, analytical balance, and muffle furnace.

Utilize GPS navigation system for locating, measuring and marking plots; and placing and setting traps.

Perform inspection and maintenance of laboratory and field equipment.

Assist with materials planning and ordering.

Record activities and completed work according to Field Operations protocol.

Perform field assignments in a variety of conditions (e.g., weather, terrain, diverse assigned biomes).

Carry, move and lift field supplies (pack weighing up to 40 lbs.) to assigned field site (diverse and uneven terrain).

Follow NEON safety and Field Operations policy and procedures.

Individuals are responsible for their own housing and transportation.

Overnight stays will be required depending on domain location.

THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS MUST BE MET TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION:

Must be 18 years of age or older.

High School diploma or equivalent.

Ability and willingness to work varied schedules (up to 12+ hours per day), including split-shift, part-time, pre-dawn early mornings, evening and weekends.

Ability to work safely in variable field conditions including:

Cold and wet weather and extreme heat

Hiking on difficult or hazardous terrain

Exposure to stinging insects and other animal and plant hazards

Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Proficiency with MS Office Suite (e.g., Excel, Word).

Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.

Strong work ethic and enthusiasm.

Ability to withstand exposure to fumes, dust and noise.

Must possess a current and valid State issued driver=92s license with insurable Department of Motor vehicle record (parking violations, minor driving offenses excluded) as determined by Battelle Ecology Inc.=92s insurance provider.

Must have permanent authorization for US employment. Battelle Ecology, Inc. will not provide any kind of visa sponsorship.

THE FOLLOWING IS DESIRED, BUT NOT REQUIRED TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION:

Bachelor=92s degree in an associated scientific discipline (ecology, forestry or related field).

Experience conducting ecology related lab or field work.

Experience conducting field studies on rodents and collecting blood samples (small mammal techs).

Experience identifying plants through visual inspection and use of dichotomous key (botany techs).

Experience backcountry hiking and navigating (maps, compass, and GPS).

Backcountry safety training course or other safety training.

Experience leading field sampling activities, hikes, or assisting nature societies with seasonal nature observations.

Overnight stays will be required depending on domain location. All costs associated with business related travel are covered by the project.

Battelle Ecology, Inc. provides employment and opportunities for advancement, compensation, training, and growth according to individual merit, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, genetic information, or disability. Our goal is for each staff member to have the opportunity to grow to the limits of their abilities and to achieve personal and organizational objectives. We will support positive programs for equal treatment of all staff and full utilization of all qualified employees at all levels within Battelle Ecology, Inc.

LOCATION:

The NEON Project=92s Domain 15 site consists of two beautiful field sites in Utah. Field sites are located SW of Salt Lake City in the West Desert (ONAQUI) and just South of the town of Moab (MOAB). These sites are characterized by expansive sagebrush/shrubland and pinyon-juniper habitats. Domain base locations are classically Western, with sweeping views of valleys, plains and local mountains that are fun and exciting to live and work in.

The field season will be from approximately mid-March through October, with staggered start and end times. The terrain is moderately rugged requiring regular 4WD driving, UTV use and challenging hiking. We work in all kinds of weather, across seasons: very hot and dry, heavy precipitation, and freezing windy days.  Crews spend >90% of the time focused on a wide variety of field activities, with one laboratory based technician. Expect highly variable schedules, including 10-12-hour days for many days in a row, as well as periods of less than 40 hours a week, as storms, wildfires and flash floods impede sampling.  Hazards are generally minimal, but include some chance of encountering stinging insects, rattlesnakes, thorny plants, and potentially dangerous encounters with large mammals.  Lastly, all of our sites involve moderate to long travel times with some overnight stay required when working at the MOAB site.

Most temporary technicians will be based out of Salt Lake City, but smaller crews may be based in Moab, UT. Technicians will be responsible for finding their own housing in the base location where they are hired, each of which provides unique outdoor experiences! Salt Lake is 20 minutes from world-class skiing, backpacking, and rock climbing, with all the cultural benefits of a large city. Although the remote base locations are smaller in size, Moab is an epicenter of outdoor adventurers interested in rafting, desert sandstone rock climbing, and mountain biking. Working in Domain 15 offers the best of the West, spanning the Great Basin and the Colorado Plateau.

For more information about our other openings, please visit: http://www.neonscience.org/about/careers

MS in Environmental Science & Policy Graduate Assistantships

Plymouth State University, Plymouth, NH, is inviting applications for its MS program in Environmental Science and Policy (ESP).

We offer expertise in areas such as watershed ecosystems, hydrology, climate change, ecological economics, landscape ecology, and land use planning. Our curriculum emphasizes the relationships between science and policy, decision making for social and ecological sustainability and resilience, and science communication. Students in the program often collaborate with interdisciplinary teams of faculty, students, and scientists from other academic, governmental, and NGOs including Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest, White Mountain National Forest, NH Department of Environmental Services, Appalachian Mountain Club, and the Squam Lakes Association.

Students accepted to PSU=92s MS in ESP may be eligible for either graduate research assistantships (GRA) or teaching assistantships (GTA). GRAs will work on specific faculty research projects as they become available. GTAs will assist with undergraduate courses in ESP – preparing and teaching labs, organizing field expeditions, teaching a unit/module, and leading study groups. A valid US driver=92s license is required.

Assistantships are available only to full-time students enrolled in the MS in ESP program. Submit applications to PSU=92s Graduate Studies. For more information about the MS in ESP, please contact Program Coordinator, Shannon Rogers, shrogers@plymouth.edu.

Graduate position: MississippiStateU.CaribbeanIguanas

The Welch Lab at Mississippi State University is looking for graduate
students to study evolutionary and conservation genetics in Caribbean
iguanas. I am interested in recruiting both MS and PhD students that would
like to pursue a degree in Biological Sciences. Students will be able to
choose between applied conservation genetics research projects as well
as more basic research projects focused on the evolutionary dynamics
of natural populations. Island populations of iguanas are particularly
useful for these types of studies because gene flow between islands is
typically low, and population sizes vary providing natural replicates
for study. This research is facilitated by extensive collaboration
with leading conservation biologists in the field. Participants in
the Welch lab will primarily be asked to conduct molecular genetic
analyses. However, fieldwork is highly encouraged, and students in the
Welch Lab have even directed extensive field their own studies. Six
graduate students working on iguanas have already conducted extensive
work in the Turks and Caicos, the Bahamas, the Dominican Republic and the
Cayman Islands. Collaborations have further involved Jamaica, and most
of the Lesser Antilles. Work on Cuban iguanas is also currently being
considered. Funding for students will initially be provided by means of
teaching assistantships with the potential for research assistantships
dependent on the availability of external funding. Graduate student
support is a real strength of graduate programs at MSU due to the
availability of Teaching Assistantships. We are looking for students
to start in August of 2017. There are funds available on a competitive
basis to support student visits to MSU, and to provide $2,500 first-year
stipend enhancements. Please contact Mark Welch at mw497ATmsstateDOTedu if
you are interested. A CV would also be appreciated. For more information
about the Welch Lab, please visit markwelch.net.

Undergraduate Summer RA positions in Marine Ecology

If you have an undergraduate or recent graduate interested in a paid research assistantship in Marine Science this summer please pass this information along! There are up to two positions available and applications are due March 6th.An assistantship would involve a combination of field and lab work in population ecology, would be based just an hour north of Portland, Maine, and would involve multi-day trips to Maine’s Acadia region!

Here is the link for the flyer (http://www.downeastinstitute.org/assets/1_31_2017%20DEI%20undergrads%202017%20V1%20YUND.pdf) but for more information email Phil Yund (pyund@downeastinstitute.org).

Summer Undergrad Internship in Ecology and Land Management in Westchester County, NY

Mianus River Gorge (www.mianus.org) College Internship in Suburban Ecology (

CISE)

Description: Mianus River Gorge, a conservation organization and 850-acre

nature preserve in Westchester County, New York, offers four 8-week summer

internships for college students interested in the conservation of natural

areas in urbanizing landscapes.

–Internships last for a period of 8 weeks. This year the internship will

run from Jun 9 – Aug 4. Longer internships may be available upon request.

— We generally must give preference to local students or those that can

commute, as summer housing is not always guaranteed.

— Each intern will work alongside Gorge staff and graduate students on a

variety of projects including wildlife monitoring, non-native species

management, and GIS applications.  The internship is a mix of performing

research and enacting management plans.

— Interns will work with and supervise high school students in our

authentic research program (Wildlife Technician Program).

— We work with our interns to provide a learning experience that fits

their interests and long-term educational goals.

— Stipend: $125/week (5 days a week) or combination of school credit and

stipend (depending on university requirements).

Projects for 2017 include:

o   Monitoring coyotes and other wildlife in NYC and Nassau County

o   Vegetation sampling, monitoring, and restoration

o   Wetland functional assessment throughout our watershed

o   Invasive species control and other land management work

o   Data management and analysis on several long-term projects

Applicant Eligibility

All undergraduate students are eligible to apply. We do not require

applicants to major in a particular discipline; however, exposure to and

interest in the fields of ecology, environmental science, or geography is

encouraged.

Interns must be self-motivated and work well in group settings.

Applicants should be prepared for strenuous summer work outdoors (e.g.

field research and land management projects) as well as indoor work when

necessary (e.g. data entry and GIS projects).

Special Considerations:

Housing is not always available, but we try to find it each year. Please

indicate whether you can commute to our location each day or will

need/prefer housing.

Public transportation in our area is unfortunately very limited, so it is

preferable that interns have a car.  Interns may also be asked to use their

own vehicle for some work (with mileage/gas reimbursement).

Application Deadline: March 15, 2017

Questions: Please direct questions to chris@mianus.org or call Chris Nagy

at 914-234-3455

Application link: http://www.mianus.org/research-and-education/

undergraduate/internship-application/

Additional info:

http://www.mianus.org/what-we-do/research-and-education/undergraduate/internships-in-suburban-ecology/

Greater Sage-grouse Field Research Crew Leaders, Technicians, and Interns

Agency:=09U.S. Geological Survey

Location: Nevada and/or NE California/Eastern Sierra

Job Description: US Geological Survey (USGS), in cooperation with Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) and Idaho State University (ISU), is seeking to fill multiple positions for Crew Leaders, Technicians, and Interns to conduct avian biological surveys primarily targeted at greater sage-grouse at multiple study sites across Nevada and California. Primary duties may include capture and handling of sage-

grouse, lek counts, radio telemetry monitoring, nest videography, habitat sampling, avian predator surveys, data entry and management, and other biological surveys as needed.  Work hours will be irregular and include nights and early mornings, as well as weekends. The Nevada landscape is beautiful but rugged and challenging to work in. Temperature extremes can range from well below freezing to above 100 degrees F, and inclement weather is always a possibility.=20=20=20

These temporary, full-time appointments are scheduled to last from the first week of March through the beginning of August, with the potential for employment to extend depending on funding and performance. Primitive field housing will be provided, and successful applicants will be required to stay on site during work periods.

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references in a single word document saved with applicant=92s last name to: rkelble@usgs.gov and jpseverson@usgs.gov. Please indicate in your cover letter if you would prefer Crew Leader, Technician, or Intern positions, and if you are not interested in one or more positions. Cover letters and correspondence may be addressed to Rebecca Kelble and John Severson. Please include =93Greater Sage-grouse position=94 in the subject line.

Positions will be filled as successful applicants are identified, and interested applicants should submit applications as soon as possible.

Qualifications:=09B.S. degree in a natural resource field preferred although experienced undergraduates are encouraged to apply for intern positions. U.S. citizen with valid driver=92s license required.=20 Successful applicants must possess the ability to hike long distances over rough terrain often in inclement weather (snow, rain, hail, high winds).  Ability to take direction and work independently, strong work ethic, a willingness to learn and a desire to gain experience while maintaining enthusiastic attitude and good communication with field supervisor is essential for all positions. Prior experience driving ATVs/4×4 vehicles over rough terrain is also preferred for all positions.

Crew Leaders: We are seeking individuals with extensive experience working on wildlife-related field research projects, previous experience with animal capture and handling and radio-telemetry, and strong interpersonal communication skills.  Prior supervisory experience, or demonstrated potential for supervising field crews, is preferred.

Technicians: Preference will be given to applicants with demonstrated experience assisting with wildlife field research.  Previous experience with animal capture and handling and radio-telemetry are also preferred.=20

Interns:  Internships will be offered to applicants that can demonstrate a passion for wildlife ecology, a willingness to learn new techniques and work as part of a team, and a desire to work hard in a remote but beautiful field setting.  Previous field experience is desirable, but not required.

Salary:=09Crew Leaders: ($2400/mo)

Technicians: ($2000/mo)

Interns ($900/mo living stipend)

Last Date to apply:=0902/15/2017

Website:=09https://www.werc.usgs.gov/

Contact:=09Rebecca Kelble and John Severson

E-mail: rkelble@usgs.gov and jpseverson@usgs.gov (Preferred)

Ph.D. Graduate Research Assistantship Pla nt-stress interactions

We seek a highly motivated student to work on a collaborative project on the epigenetic mechanisms of stress tolerance in weeds and model systems. Projects will examine the role of epigenetics in plant response to a variety of stresses, including trans-generational inheritance of epigenetic changes. The student will lead greenhouse and growth chamber studies using a variety of stresses and plant species. The student will be co-advised by Dr. Jacob Barney (http://weedeco.ppws.vt.edu) <[http://weedeco.ppws.vt.edu)]http://weedeco.ppws.vt.edu)> and Dr. Shawn Askew (http://www.ppws.vt.edu/people/faculty/askew-shawn.html) <http://www.ppws.vt.edu/people/faculty/askew-shawn.html)> and work closely with Drs. Jim Westwood, David Haak, and Liqing Zhang. The successful candidate will be fully funded (tuition and stipend) for up to 48 months (Ph.D.) on a graduate research assistantship.

Virginia Tech is in Blacksburg, VA, a college town in an idyllic mountain setting and is the #1 ranked college/university in the U.S. for quality of life (Princeton Review, 8/2016).

Qualifications

Applicants should have a strong interest and a prior degree in biology, ecology, or related discipline, an MS in a related field is desired but not required.  Applicants should have extensive past research experience, an outstanding academic record and GRE scores, and evidence of strong writing and quantitative skills.

Start date for the assistantship is negotiable, ranging from May to August 2017.  Applications will be reviewed as they are received.

To apply, please email a single PDF file to Dr. Jacob Barney (jnbarney@vt.edu) <mailto:jnbarney@vt.edu)> containing (1) a cover letter outlining your research interests, career goals, relevant experience, and preferred start date; (2) your CV; (3) undergraduate/graduate transcripts and GRE scores; and (4) full contact information for at least 3 professional references.  The subject line of the email should read: Plant Stress Interactions Graduate Position.