Month: September 2017

M.S. or Ph.D. opportunity in amphibian disease ecology and animal physiology

The Warne Lab at Southern Illinois University is seeking a highly motivated

graduate student (M.S. or PhD) to work on a funded study exploring the

ecology of ranaviruses among amphibian communities. Research in the lab

focuses on animal physiological ecology with specific projects testing how

environmental conditions shape resource allocation, disease processes, and

ecological community interactions.

The start date for the position is January 1, 2018. Apply by October 16th

for full consideration. For inquiries or to apply, please send a cover

letter and CV to Dr. Robin Warne (rwarne@siu.edu).

More information can be found at http://warnelab.weebly.com/.

NSF funded PhD opportunity in animal physiology and community ecology

The Warne Lab at Southern Illinois University is seeking a highly motivated

PhD student to work on a collaborative NSF funded study testing how changes

in animal physiology and foraging behavior feedback to affect plant

community ecology. The research will focus on kangaroo rats and their

grassland communities in New Mexico, and will include the experimental

manipulation of endocrine physiology along with use of digital telemetry,

and stable isotopes. The student will work with both Dr. Robin Warne and Dr.

Justin Boyles in the Zoology Department at Southern Illinois University.

The start date for the position is January 1, 2018. Apply by October 16th

for full consideration.

For inquiries or to apply, please send a cover letter and CV to Dr. Robin

Warne (rwarne@siu.edu).

Our labs are highly research active, and we collectively maintain a strong

and diverse cohort of undergraduate and graduate researchers. More

information can be found at http://warnelab.weebly.com/ and

http://www.boyleslab.com/.

PhD graduate student position in marine microbiology @ NC State

A PhD track graduate student position is available (starting Spring 2018 or Fall 2018) in the Paerl Lab (https://paerllab.wordpress.com/), within the Marine, Earth, and Atmospheric Science (MEAS) Department (https://meas.sciences.ncsu.edu/).=20

The area of focus for the position is microbial (bacterial and microalgal) vitamin physiology and cycling (production, consumption, exchange), with multiple research directions being open for pursuit.  Both traditional (e.g. culturing, cell isolations, microscopy) and modern (e.g. flow cytometry, nucleic acid sequencing/amplification/quantification, isotopic tracing) techniques will be integral to the project, and prior experience with either is plus.  Field-based and laboratory-based experimentation is involved in the project.=20

A master=92s degree is prerequisite for the PhD track position.  In addition, publication (or submission) of work from the master=92s thesis is preferred.

Interested applicants please contact Ryan Paerl (rpaerl[at]ncsu.edu) to learn more details about potential research directions and to discuss the position.  Please include your CV in your initial contact email.=20

An application to the MEAS graduate program is necessary to ultimately obtain the position and information regarding the application process (including GRE requirements and deadlines) can be found here: https://meas.sciences.ncsu.edu/graduate/apply-to-

meas/.

Ph.D. Position in Aquatic Community and Ecosystem Ecology

The Howeth Lab of Ecology and Conservation (http://howethlab.ua.edu/) in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Alabama invites applications for a Ph.D. student in aquatic community and ecosystem ecology beginning Spring, Summer, or Fall 2018.

Research will address the role of succession in metacommunity and food web structure using replicate successional mosaics of beaver-formed ponds. Projects will focus on fish and/or invertebrate (e.g., odonates, zooplankton) community composition and ecosystem properties among ponds in different stages of succession and located in multiple watersheds. This work will utilize field-based approaches in the streams and beaver ponds of the Talladega National Forest in Alabama, including the NSF NEON Domain 8 core site. The project can additionally involve dendrochronology, GIS/remote sensing, hydrologic modeling, stable isotope analyses, DNA barcoding, and experiments at the UA Tanglewood Biological Station.

Additional information is available from the following webpages:

Directly related research: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ecs2.1871/full=20

Department of Biological Sciences Graduate Program: https://bsc.ua.edu/degree-programs/graduate-program-overview/=20

University of Alabama: [http://www.ua.edu=20]www.ua.edu=20

Requirements: B.S. or M.S. in Biology and Ecology or related fields. Applicants must be highly motivated and have the ability to: 1) interact and collaborate with a research group that includes graduate and undergraduate researchers; 2) conduct research outdoors in variable climatic conditions and 3) drive University trucks (valid driver=92s license and background check required).

Students will be funded on a combination of teaching and research assistantships, which include a competitive 12 month stipend, health insurance, and a tuition waiver. Highly competitive applicants can be considered for university and departmental fellowships that offer Graduate Research Assistantships.

Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Interested students should send an e-mail to Dr. Jennifer Howeth (jghoweth@ua.edu) with the following attached documents and “Graduate Assistantship” in the title:

(1) cover letter that includes a statement of research interests, research experience, and career goals

(2) CV (3) scientific writing sample (e.g., laboratory report, thesis, manuscript) (4) GRE scores, if available=20 (5) unofficial copies of academic transcripts (6) contact information for three references in biology/ecology

PhD in community ecology

PhD fellowship in Community/Population Ecology I am looking for highly motivated graduate students in community/population ecology starting September 2018 in the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Graduate Program at Rice University in Houston, Texas. I will consider applicants who wish to pursue fundamental research on any aspect of population/community. Our research examines the ecological factors that generate and determine the structure, dynamics and functioning of natural communities. Current projects focus on the consequences of climate change and phenological shifts on natural communities, ecology and evolution of multi-parasite communities, the role of intra-specific variation in natural ecosystems, temporal and spatial biodiversity patterns, and the ecology and evolution of cannibalism. While most of our work has been carried out in aquatic (freshwater) systems using organisms that range from stream salamanders to dragonfly larvae to zooplankton I am amenable to students developing projects in other study systems. For further information in my research visit http://volkerrudolf.weebly.com/=20

Please see our departmental website http://biosciences.rice.edu/EEB_GradAdmissions.aspx for more information about the Graduate Program of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at Rice University, our research and graduate programs, and the recent addition of several outstanding new faculty complementing our strengths in a variety of research areas ranging from the ecology and evolution of interspecific interactions, tropical & conservation biology, invasive species, and forest community dynamics to genomics, speciation, and the evolution of sociality. Formal application materials for graduate school can be submitted using the above website. Interested students should send me an email and attach a copy of their CV. Volker Rudolf Assistant Professor Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Rice University Houston, TX, 77005 Email:Volker.rudolf@rice.edu

Graduate Positions in Population Ecology

The Matter lab at the University of Cincinnati is recruiting highly qualified and motivated Ph.D. students beginning in summer or fall 2018. Major foci of the lab are on dispersal, spatial population dynamics, and the persistence of spatial population networks, although former students have conducted research on a range of Ecological topics. Students will develop independent research projects, but we are particularly interested in students whose research will contribute to and benefit from our long-term data on the Rocky Mountain Apollo butterfly and its host plant, Sedum lanceolatum.

Students interested in joining the lab should contact Steve Matter (mattersf@uc.edu<mailto:mattersf@uc.edu>) to discuss their interests. Please include a brief statement of your research interests, CV, transcripts, and GRE scores.

The Department of Biological Science’s Environmental Change & Biological Resilience research and graduate training group (http://www.artsci.uc.edu/departments/biology/research/ECBR.html) seeks to better understand and predict how organisms, populations, and ecosystems respond to environmental change. This group addresses basic and applied questions, transcending traditional levels of biological organization. The group is currently expanding with the addition of new faculty in conjunction with UC’s Water Cluster (https://www.uc.edu/provost/initiatives/cluster-hiring-initative.html) and offers opportunities to collaborate with aligned research programs in UC’s Environmental Studies program, in UC’s nationally-renowned College of Engineering, and at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Research and Development in Cincinnati. The Cincinnati Center for Field Studies, located 30 minutes west of campus, is a major regional center for environmental research and an additional resource for ECBR researchers (http://magazine.uc.edu/issues/1013/field_studies.html).

The department offers competitive support packages for qualified students. The University of Cincinnati, the Department of Biological Sciences, and the Matter lab have a strong commitment to diversity in science and graduate education. Students from underrepresented ethnic or racial minorities will be considered for the new Provost Graduate Fellowship, which provides a 3 year $25,000 stipend plus tuition remission, and the Yates Fellowship, which awards grants to underrepresented minority candidates.

The University of Cincinnati is a top-25 public ‘research-intensive’ institution and is ranked among the nation’s best institutions for undergraduate education. Founded in 1819, our campus boasts award winning, modern architecture and is located in close vicinity to collaborative resources including, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden.

Cincinnati is a vibrant city on the banks of the Ohio River. The region is home to year-round cultural and entertainment opportunities such as the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, as well as numerous annual music and cultural festivals. Cincinnati is also home to major professional sports teams including the Cincinnati Bengals, Cincinnati Reds, and FC Cincinnati – a new professional soccer team which draws over 20,000 fans per game. City and county park systems provide extensive green space for outdoor activities as well as research and outreach opportunities.

More information about the graduate program in the Department of Biological Sciences can be found here: http://www.artsci.uc.edu/departments/biology/graduate/future.html.

Graduate applications are due January 1. To apply: http://www.grad.uc.edu/ApplyOnline.aspx.

Sincerely,

Steve Matter

Ph.D. in Ecology and Science Communication

We are currently looking for a Ph.D. student for Spring 2018 to help with a

project that focuses on reducing informational feedback delays between

applied ecological research and adoption of management practices in the

Northern Great Plains (USA). The successful candidate will use existing

data from national research networks and research stations to engage local

stakeholders to design and test the usability of real-time data products.

The student will work collaboratively with ecologists, social scientists,

and local landowners to create products that influence management practices

and enhance ecosystem services on working lands.

*Qualifications*

-B.S. in one of the following areas: environmental science, biology,

agricultural ecosystems, natural resources management, or rangeland ecology

-Demonstrated ability to work with stakeholders

-Strong communication skills

-Strong quantitative skills

-Some programming experience and interest in using visualization techniques

preferred.

*Funding*

The student will enroll in the Ph.D. program in Virginia Tech=E2=80=99s Department

of Forest Resources & Environmental Conservation and will be affiliated

with the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies

<http://www.caryinstitute.org/science-program/our-scientists/dr-kathleen-c-weathers>

(http://www.caryinstitute.org/), one of the world=E2=80=99s leading independent,

environmental research organizations. Full graduate research assistantship

(with stipend) and tuition waiver will be provided for 3 years and

additional opportunities for funding are available. Students are strongly

encouraged to apply to be a fellow in Virginia Tech=E2=80=99s Interfaces of Global

Change <http://www.globalchange.vt.edu/igc/> graduate program (

http://www.globalchange.vt.edu/igc/), an interdisciplinary program designed

to address the multidimensional aspects of global change.

*Applying*

Interested students are encouraged to email the following as a single pdf

document: 1) a brief cover letter describing their professional background,

relevant research experience and interests, career goals, and reasons for

seeking a Ph.D., 2) a current curriculum vitae/resume, 3) names and contact

information for three references, and 4) an unofficial copy of transcripts

and GRE scores. Please send directly to me at msorice@vt.edu. Do not submit

materials to the Virginia Tech Graduate School at this time.

Applications will be reviewed as soon as they are received, but materials

must be received before 15 October 2017. The target start date is January

2018.

*Contact Information*

Michael Sorice (Primary contact for position)

Associate Professor, Department of Forest Resources & Environmental

Conservation

Virginia Tech

Phone: (540) 231-8303

Email: m-sorice@vt.edu

Graduate student needed for research in Puerto Rico

Dr. Michael Martinez-Colon, assistant professor in the School of the

Environment at Florida A&M University (FAMU) in Tallahassee-FL, is

seeking a graduate student (preferably PhD) to begin in Spring 2018

(preferably) or Summer 2018.

Research will focus on the application of benthic foraminifera as

bioindicators of water quality in coral reefs from Puerto Rico. The main

purpose is to implement the FORAM Index as part of the coral reef

monitoring efforts at Jobos Bay (National Estuarine Research Reserve).

The student will conduct field work at one or more reefs in Jobos Bay.

In addition, the student will be engaged in the following activities:

– should be able to swim

– diving (if student is not certified, funding is available for Open

Water SCUBA certification)

– sediment sampling

– water column sampling

– TOC, TN, TP, NO3, NO2, PO3 analysis

– microscope work

– foraminiferal ecology

– statistics

Preferable, applicants should have a background in any of the following:

ecology, biology, environmental science, geology, marine science, and

field work. Applicants should be highly motivated and prepared to

conduct independent field and laboratory research.

Full applications to FAMU’s Graduate School are due on November 1 (begin

in Spring 2018) or March 1 (begin Summer 2018). However, interested

applicants should initially contact Dr. Martinez-Colon

(michael.martinez@famu.edu <mailto:michael.martinez@famu.edu>) in

advance of the deadline. Include the

following: CV, unofficial transcript, and a brief statement that

describes your interest in the position. Please include questions you

have about the research, etc. Applicants are strongly encouraged to

first peruse the lab website and publications prior to contact

(http://www.foramlaboratory.com <http://www.foramlaboratory.com>).

The position comes with a full tuition waiver, a competitive 12 month

stipend, and health insurance provided by FAMU. Funding for field work,

sample analysis, travel, lodging, etc. will be provided by Dr. Martinez-

Colon’s funded project. Funding for summer field work expenses and

conference attendance is available.

Michael Martínez-Colón, PhD

Assistant Professor

School of the Environment

Florida A&M University

FSH Science Research Center, RM306B

1515 South MLK Blvd, Tallahassee, FL, 32307

Main: (850)-561-2134 <tel:%28850%29%20561-2134>

www.foramlaboratory.com <http://www.foramlaboratory.com/> ;

www.famu.edu/soe/martinez <http://www.famu.edu/soe/martinez>

*”Providing opportunities for students to achieve their goals in Science”*

*

*

google scholar: http://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=mFmn3qcAAAAJ

linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mmartinezcolon

research gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Michael_Martinez-Colon

Research Advisory Committee- Jobos Bay Ntnl. Estuarine Research Reserve

in Puerto Rico

http://drna.pr.gov/jbnerr/

Advisory Board Member- Savannah River Environmental Sciences Field Station

http://www.cnrt.scsu.edu/fieldstation/

Board of Directors- Rock Detective Geoscience Education

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

Research Technician at the Kansas Biological Survey

Job Title:  Research Technician

Regular/Non-Exempt-Hourly

FTE:  40 hours weekly

Supervisor:  James Bever

Position Overview:  A full time lab/field research assistant position is available to support research in the ecology and evolution of plant-microbiome interactions at the University of Kansas (Lawrence, KS).=A0 The research assistant will be responsible for coordinating and maintaining projects associated with field experiments, greenhouse and/or growth chamber experiments investigating the role of AM fungal communities on plant species turnover and coexistence; the influence of pathogens on plant diversity; and microbiome mediated adaptations along a broad precipitation gradient.=A0The projected start date for this position is October 15, 2017.

Job Description:

55% – Monitoring and sampling field experiments; set up, maintain, harvest and analyze plant microbiome experiments in the greenhouse, growth chambers, and field settings; managing field crews necessary for fieldwork.

10% – Collecting seed, germinating, transplanting experimental plants into pots and in the field as well as sowing seeds directly into field experiments.

10% – Mixing and sterilizing native soil for culture and pot experiments.

15% – Starting, checking, maintaining arbuscular mycorrhizal, possibly including some maintenance of our arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal collection.=A0 =A0

10% – Entering results into databases and maintaining data from experiments.

Required Qualifications:

1. Bachelor’s degree in biology, botany, ecology, agronomy, range science or related field.

2. At least 1 year of experience in field research as a field worker, field/lab technician, or investigator.

3. Demonstrated knowledge of plant identification through experience and/or education.

4. Prior experience using a microscope and other sensitive laboratory equipment through education or education.

5. Demonstrated knowledge through education or experience with sterile technique.

6. Experience in the use of word processing and spreadsheet software (Microsoft Office).

7. Good written communication skills as demonstrated by application materials.

Position Requirements: Must have physical ability to work in greenhouse and in the field conditions (extreme environmental conditions of heat, cold, wind, etc.) and have the ability to life up to 25 pounds=A0with or without accommodation.

=A0

Preferred Qualifications:

1.=A0 Master=92s degree or higher in biology, botany, ecology, agronomy, range science or related field.

2.=A0 Working knowledge of Midwestern and/or Great Plains flora.

3.=A0 Experience propagating plants from seed.

4. Experience in database management.

Additional Candidate Instructions:  A complete application consists of the online application, resume, and a cover letter outlining specifically how required and preferred qualifications are met.  Application review begins September=A018, 2017. To ensure consideration, apply prior to the review date.

Contact Information for Candidates:  Peggy Schultz at pschultz@ku.edu

The University of Kansas prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability, status as a veteran, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information in the University’s programs and activities.  The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-

discrimination policies:  Director of the Office of Institutional Opportunity and Access, IOA@ku.edu, 1246 W. Campus Road, Room 153A, Lawrence, KS, 66045.  (785) 864-6414. 711TTY.

PhD position – Ecology of cats and birds

The Flockhart Lab (tylerflockhart.com<http://tylerflockhart.com/>) at the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES) is seeking an inspired PhD student to study the population ecology of free-roaming cats and birds in urban areas. The position involves conducting field surveys for birds and cats, vegetation/habitat sampling, interacting with residents and town administrators, and possibly mark-recapture of birds and fecal analysis.

The ideal candidate would have skills in organizing volunteers, wildlife identification (must be proficient in eastern USA birds by sight and sound) and experience with the statistical software R. Individuals with bird banding experience would by extremely valuable to the project. Expect to communicate with partners, lead field staff, collaborate with diverse stakeholders and interact with researchers from a variety of institutions.

The position will ideally start January 1, 2018 and is based at the UMCES Appalachian Laboratory in Frostburg, Maryland. Frostburg is a small university town in western Maryland with an abundance of nearby outdoor recreational opportunities. Two years of support is available but the student will be expected to apply for both internal and external fellowships and funding opportunities for their research.

To inquire about the opportunity please email with questions. To be considered for the position, please first email Tyler Flockhart (tyler.flockhart@umces.edu<mailto:tyler.flockhart@umces.edu>) a single PDF containing (1) a one-page statement of interest (2) a CV with relevant experience, unofficial transcripts & GRE (and if appropriate TOFEL) scores, and (3) contact information for two academic references. Please indicate =93Wildlife Ecology PhD position=94 in your subject line. Your statement of interest should include why you suit the position and how the position will help you achieve your career goals. Applications will be evaluated as they are received but the deadline has been extended to September 15, 2017 as formal applications for grad school are due by the end of September, 2017.

Tyler Flockhart, PhD Assistant Professor University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science – Appalachian Laboratory tyler.flockhart@umces.edu<mailto:tyler.flockhart@umces.edu> | tylerflockhart.com<http://tylerflockhart.com/> | @TylerFlockhart | 301- 689-7127