A Master=92s position is available in the Quantitative Forest Management lab of Dr. Steve Chhin in the Division of Forestry and Natural Resources at West Virginia University (WVU).

The graduate student will primarily conduct field and laboratory work for a project recently funded by the USDA Forest Service.    The general objective of the project is to develop new site index curves for Central Appalachian red spruce by correcting for historical growth suppression. Models will also be developed which relate red spruce site index to the site index of commonly associated species such as American beech, black cherry, red maple, and yellow birch.  This will aid in restoration and resiliency efforts for red spruce by providing site quality information in areas where red spruce is absent or where new red spruce habitat is expected due to climate change.  Dendroclimatic models will be developed to examine sensitivity of red spruce to past and future climate change.=20

Qualifications:=20

A completed Bachelor=92s degree in forestry, biology, ecology, environmental sciences, or a similarly related natural resource field is acceptable.=20 Preference will be given to applicants that are highly self-motivated, possess a strong work ethic, and have strong oral and written communication skills.  Experience with statistical software packages (e.g., R) and proficiency with GIS would be assets.  A background or strong interest in conducting field based research and working in a laboratory environment is desirable.  Applicants must enjoy working (e.g., rigorous field work) and living outdoors (e.g., camping) and possess a valid driver=92s license.  A cumulative GPA greater than 3.25 in undergraduate coursework is preferred.  The start date for this position is January 2018.  This position includes a tuition waiver and health benefits, and a competitive stipend.=20

Application materials:

Please submit: 1) cover letter, 2) curriculum vitae, 3) unofficial transcripts, 4) GRE scores, 5) contact information of two references, and 6) TOEFL scores (for international applicants).  Please describe your career goals in the cover letter.  Applications will be considered immediately and continue until the position is filled.  To ensure full consideration, please e-mail your application material to Dr. Steve Chhin (sc0061@mix.wvu.edu) by October 9, 2017.=20

The Department of Biology at Georgetown University has multiple opportunities for doctoral study in ecology, evolution and behavior (EEB). Georgetown faculty are dedicated to the development of doctoral candidates into insightful and skilled scientists, scholars and teachers. Funding for graduate study is supported by a combination of assistantships, teaching fellowships and research grant support. Our program and institution welcomes students of all racial, ethnic and religious backgrounds. Students interested in any of the opportunities listed below are strongly encouraged to contact the relevant faculty member(s) via email. The Department of Biology graduate program is described at http://biology.georgetown.edu/graduate/applicants/.=20

Information about graduate school application procedures and deadlines can be found at http://grad.georgetown.edu/pages/admissions.cfm.=20

Molecular basis of adaptation: Dr. Peter Armbruster seeks a highly motivated PhD student to join his laboratory=92s research program on the molecular basis of adaptation in natural populations. The Armbruster lab is currently focusing on the invasive and medically important mosquito Aedes albopictus. This mosquito invaded the US in 1985 and spread rapidly over approximately 15 degrees of latitude. A major focus of work in the Armbruster lab is the use of transcriptome sequencing and genomics approaches to elucidate the genetic basis and molecular physiology of photoperiodic diapause in Ae. albopictus. Interested students should contact Dr. Peter Armbruster (paa9@georgetown.edu). For further information on the Armbruster lab see: http://faculty.georgetown.edu/paa9/

Ecological interactions, behavior & learning: Research in Dr. Martha Weiss=92 lab focuses on ecological interactions (between plants and animals, as well as predator and prey), with an emphasis on behavior and learning. Ongoing or recent projects include investigations of the ecological factors supporting shifts in host plant usage, butterfly and caterpillar learning, retention of memory across complete metamorphosis, and the ecological context of defecation behavior. We are also working on development of hands-on science curricular materials, mostly related to plants and insects, for use in K-12 classrooms. We seek an outstanding graduate student interested in these or related projects. For more information see the Weiss Lab website: http://www.weisslab.org/

Butterfly responses to climate change:  Dr. Leslie Ries is seeking a PhD student interested in field, laboratory and data-intensive approaches to ecology to join her lab=92s research program on butterfly responses to climate change.  The Ries lab uses both experimental approaches, measuring thermal tolerances of caterpillars in the lab and data-

intensive approaches, exploring large-scale spatiotemporal patterns using data sets mostly derived from citizen science monitoring programs.=20=

Students with previous independent research experience and/or excellent quantitative or computational skills will be given precedence.  In addition, the ability to start work during the summer of 2018 would be highly advantageous.  Interested students should contact Dr. Leslie Ries (Leslie.Ries@georgetown.edu). For further information on the Ries lab see: http://www.butterflyinformatics.org/

Disease ecology and network epidemiology: Dr. Shweta Bansal is seeking outstanding PhD students to collaborate on mathematical modeling projects for infectious disease dynamics. The Bansal Lab (http://bansallab.com) focuses on the feedback between host behavior and disease transmission using tools from network theory, statistical modeling, and computer science. Current study systems include influenza in humans, pathogen spread in ant colonies, and foot and mouth disease in cattle, with support from the NIH and NSF. Interested students should contact Dr. Bansal (shweta.bansal@georgetown.edu) with a description of their research interests.

Population genetics and molecular evolution: Dr. Matthew B. Hamilton is seeking students interested in using DNA sequence or genetic marker data to test fundamental hypotheses in population genetics and molecular evolution. On-going empirical projects include using genomic or transcriptome sequence data to infer possible causes of molecular clock variation in plants or in arthropods, estimating genetic effective population size, and testing for ecological-evolutionary coupling through genetic variation and effective population size in a salt marsh community of a foundation plant and insect herbivores and predators. The lab also develops software for estimation of population genetic parameters, and carries out simulation studies to better predict population genetic patterns. The ideal project in the Hamilton lab would combine empirical genetic marker data collection with mathematical or computer simulation work to develop novel expectations or hypothesis tests. Interested students should contact Dr. Hamilton (hamiltm1@georgetown.edu). For further information on the Hamilton lab see http:// http://hamiltonlabpage.weebly.com/.

The Aylward lab at Virginia Tech is seeking enthusiastic students interested in the ecology and evolution of microbial life to join the newly established research group in either a Masters or PhD track. The lab uses molecular, =91omic, and bioinformatic tools to address questions regarding the diversity, activities, and systems biology of microbial communities.

Potential projects include: 1) Analysis of the evolution and potential biogeochemical impacts of Bacteria and Archaea in the open ocean using metagenomics and comparative genomics, and 2) The development of new bioinformatic approaches leveraging large =91omic datasets to assess the diversity and activities of microbial life in the biosphere.

Requirements:

Students should have 1) a strong interest in microbial ecology and diversity, 2) a bachelor=92s degree (or equivalent) in a related field, and 3) some programming experience (preferably python or R).

Programs & Application:

Students can join the lab through several graduate programs offered at Virginia Tech, including different tracks within the Biological Sciences graduate program and the interdisciplinary program in Genetics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology. Students will be provided competitive stipends and have the opportunity to interact with the dynamic and inclusive community at Virginia Tech that includes scientists working on exciting questions in ecology, evolution, systems biology, and computational biology. More information regarding the Aylward Lab and links to different programs can be found on the lab webpage (www.aylwardlab.com).

Interested applicants should send a combined PDF with a description of their research interests and motivation, their CV, and contact information for three references directly to Frank Aylward (faylward@vt.edu).

Job opportunity in the Rynearson lab (https://web.uri.edu/rynearson-lab/) at

the University of Rhode Island to work on marine plankton and global change

biology.

Job description and application information at:

https://jobs.uri.edu/postings/2742

PhD Opportunities Physiological Ecology of Western US Mountain Forests

University of Utah, Dept. of Biology, Salt Lake City, Utah=20

We are looking for PhD students interested in studying forest physiology and

forest carbon and water cycling in mountains of the western U.S.  Current

projects are focused on biological and physical factors influencing

photosynthesis and transpiration of mountain forests in the context of

climate change.  You will have the opportunity to learn and use a wide

variety of techniques, including leaf gas exchange, chlorophyll

fluorescence, plant water transport, forest environmental and flux

measurement methods, and isotope ratio mass spectrometry, and to work

collaboratively with scientists using tower and satellite-based remote

sensing observations and Earth system models.  We’ll train you in analytical

field and laboratory instrumentation and research techniques, experimental

design, data analysis, computer programming, ecological modeling and

scientific writing.  There is plenty of room to develop your own project in

the context of the overall scientific focus of our group. We offer up to 5

years of financial support in the form of teaching and research assistantships.

Requirements: 1) a bachelor=92s or master=92s degree and research experience in

a field of Earth system science (ecology, geology, physics, chemistry,

geography, etc.), 2) innate curiosity about the natural world and how it

works, 3) interest in learning and applying cutting-edge analytical

techniques to study ecology, and 4) strong motivation and ability to work

both independently and collaboratively.  Experience with plant physiological

ecology or environmental instrumentation is highly desired.  More

information about our Graduate Program in Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal

Biology is available at http://www.biology.utah.edu/graduate/index.php, and

about our research group at http://biologylabs.utah.edu/bowling. The

University of Utah is ranked among the top research institutions in the

nation and is home to more than 30,000 students and 18,000 employees.  Salt

Lake City is a sunny Western city with outstanding cultural and outdoor

recreational opportunities, including =93the greatest snow on Earth!=94 Deadline to apply is January 3, 2018.  If you=92re interested, please contact

Dr. Dave Bowling, david.bowling@utah.edu

Professor of Biology

University of Utah

The Tropical Responses to Altered Climate Experiment (TRACE) is looking for

two *full time *interns to assist in field and laboratory work, under the

supervision of the Project Manager. TRACE is the first field warming

experiment to be successfully conducted in a tropical forest to study the

effects of climate change on tropical forests, particularly effects on

carbon and nutrient cycling. Interns will be afforded the opportunity to

meet and interact with a wide variety of scientists from different fields

and will be trained in numerous scientific techniques. Tasks will include

but are not limited to: maintenance and operation of experimental and

scientific equipment, collection and processing of samples (soil, litterfall,

water, roots, among others), and data entry. Interns will be expected to

work in challenging field conditions (e.g., warm, humid climate with high

rainfall; steep and muddy areas) and will occasionally be asked to work for

extended hours. For more information about the project, visit

www.forestwarming.org. <http://www.forestwarming.org/>

*Review of applications will begin in September 2017 and will continue

until the positions are filled. Positions

may begin as early as September 15, 2017. We request Interns commit to

a minimum of three

months, with flexible start and end dates.*

Stipend: $575 per month to cover food and general living expenses. Contract

is with non-governmental organization Ciudadanos del Karso.

Accommodation: Free housing in Sabana Field Research Station in Luquillo,

Puerto Rico. Housing includes full kitchen and laundry.

Transportation: Interns will be required to apply for a federal license

with the USDA Forest Service. This will permit the use of the station

vehicles for work purposes. We will provide transportation to and from the

airport if needed.

Note: We are unable to provide funding for travel or medical insurance at

this time.

Requirements: We are looking for college graduates with a Natural Sciences

background. Previous field and/or laboratory experience is preferable, but

not required. Applicants should have a positive attitude and be able to

work both independently and on a team setting. They must also be able to

conduct physically demanding work under climatically challenging conditions.

While not required, applicants with a basic knowledge of Spanish are

preferred. We are currently only considering US citizens and permanent US

residents.

To apply: Send email to aurapr15@gmail.com with the following:

1.        Full resume or CV

2.        Letter of interest explaining your professional interests, why

you are interested in our project and your relevant experience.

3.        Name and contact information for two references.

Description: A MS position is available in the Davenport lab to study the

effects of predator phenology on experimental food webs. The focal aspects

of the research will pertain to responses of lower trophic levels and

ecosystem function within pond ecosystems. The field component of the

research will be conducted in the Missouri Ozarks and the experimental work

will be completed on campus at Southeast Missouri State University.

Coursework will be carried out at Southeast Missouri State University and

the field season will be from early September-late June. The student will

also have additional research and outreach opportunities such as

participating in long-term monitoring of wetland vertebrate populations and

additional food web research.  The position begins in the January 2018. This

position will be supported by a grant funded RA position that includes an

annual stipend and full tuition waiver.

Qualifications: Prospective students should have prior experience in field

biology, familiarity with zooplankton sampling and identification, a working

knowledge of statistics, demonstrate good communication skills and be

willing to work with others in humid environments. Prior experience in

surveys of pond-breeding amphibians and invertebrates is preferred but not

required. Prospective students should also possess a valid U.S. passport and

driver=92s license. A B.S. in biology, ecology or wildlife biology is required

with a GPA >3.0. Applicant must meet admittance criteria set by the

Southeast Missouri State University Graduate School and Biology graduate

program.

Application materials: Interested applicants should email the following

items to Dr. Jon Davenport (jdavenport@semo.edu) by November 1: 1) cover

letter detailing past research experience and professional goals, 2) CV or

resume, 3) 2 references, and 4) unofficial transcripts.

Hood Lab, Aquatic Ecology Laboratory, Department of Evolution, Ecology, and

Organismal Biology, The Ohio State University

I am recruiting two Ph.D. students interested in developing dissertations

focused broadly on how global change drivers (e.g., land use, nutrient

loading, climate warming, etc.) influence organisms and the structure and

function of aquatic ecosystems. There is considerable flexibility in

developing dissertation topics; however, I am particularly interested in

recruiting students interested in several new research questions focused

on: (a) nutrient cycling and metabolism in rivers, (b) the influence of

nutrient loading and climate change on Lake Erie plankton communities, (c)

the interactive effects of temperature and nutrients on autotrophic

metabolism. Interested candidates should review our website (

www.hoodaquaticslab.wordpress.com) and contact Jim Hood for more

information.

The ideal candidates will be highly motivated and honest with a strong

background in ecology and freshwater science and an interest in ecosystem

ecology. I seek to maintain a productive, diverse, and team-orientated lab

group and especially encourage students from under-represented groups to

consider joining the lab. A Master=E2=80=99s degree is preferred, but not r=

equired.

Financial support is available through a combination of research

assistantships, competitive fellowships, and teaching assistantships.

If interested, please email Jim Hood (hood.211@osu.edu) a single PDF

containing (1) a statement of interest, (2) a CV, and (3) contact

information for your three references. On* 1 November 2017

<http://airmail.calendar/2017-11-01%2012:00:00%20EDT>*, I will begin

reviewing candidate applications and invite selected applicants to apply to

the department. The department’s application deadline is *1 December 2017

<http://airmail.calendar/2017-12-01%2012:00:00%20EST>*.

*M.S. Assistantship in Applied Forest Ecology and Silviculture *The

Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management (NREM) at Iowa State

University is seeking a M.S.-level graduate student to join a research

project investigating the long-term impacts of harvest disturbance on

aspen-dominated forests across the Upper Lake States region. The student

will benefit from the opportunity to work on an established, experimental

study while also having the freedom to develop and pursue questions about

natural and anthropogenic disturbance, resilience, and competition tailored

to the student=E2=80=99s specific interests. Work will involve collaboratio=

n with a

team that includes scientists from Iowa State University and the U.S.

Forest Service Northern Research Station.

The position begins in summer 2018 and includes two guaranteed years of

funding (competitive stipend, tuition, and health insurance).  It is based

in Ames, Iowa at Iowa State University and will involve field work in

remote areas of northern Minnesota and Michigan, USA.

*Qualifications:* B.S. in ecology, forestry, silviculture, natural

resources, conservation biology, environmental science or a closely related

field. Previous field and/or extensive outdoor work experience is required.

Skills in plant identification are strongly preferred. Experience or

interest in dendrochronology is also preferred.  Submitted materials should

demonstrate effective communication through writing, an ability to work

both independently and collaboratively, a passion for natural resources,

and a strong work ethic.

*Application process:* Interested applicants should submit a CV, GRE

scores, contact information for three references, unofficial transcripts,

and a cover letter summarizing relevant experience, research interests, and

professional and academic goals to Dr. Miranda Curzon (mcurzon@iastate.edu)=

.

If nominated for the position, three letters of reference, official GRE

scores, and official transcripts will be required for application to ISU.

The process for admission to graduate studies in the Department of Natural

Resource Ecology and Management is described at

https://www.nrem.iastate.edu/admissions. The position is open until filled,

but applicants should submit materials prior to November 1, 2017 for full

consideration.

Please contact Miranda Curzon (mcurzon@iastate.edu) for further information=

I’m looking for a PhD student with experience in plant community ecology =

or evolutionary biology to start in my lab at Utah State University. The PhD=

will combine fieldwork and modelling, is fully-funded, and includes money to t=

ravel to conferences and working groups.

More details and application instructions are available online

(http://pearselab.com/join-the-lab/). I will review applications as they =

come in on a first-come-first-served basis. I’m happy to answer any questions =

over email (will.pearse@usu.edu).

Thanks,

Will Pearse