Month: December 2017

Grad student opportunities, eco/micro evolutionary developmental biology of wildflowers and crops

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The Baker Lab (http://www.rlbakerlab.com ) in the Biology Department at Miami University of Ohio is recruiting highly motivated graduate students (M.S. or Ph.D.; multiple positions available) to study eco/micro evolutionary developmental biology. Research in the Baker Lab includes work on locally adapted wildflowers and leveraging evo-devo approaches for sustainable agriculture in crop improvement in agroecologically relevant settings.
Preferred candidates will have an enthusiasm for learning and a background in agricultural sciences, botany, evolution, ecology, genetics and/or a related field. The Baker Lab values diversity, inclusivity, and equity. Students from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply, as are students who participated in research as undergraduates. NSF Research Experiences for Undergrads (REU) or McNair Scholars are highly encouraged to apply.
Successful applicants will receive tuition waivers and at least one year of support as research assistants and are guaranteed teaching assistantships throughout their graduate studies (2 years total for M.S. or 6 years total for Ph.D.).
Interested applicants should contact Dr. Rob Baker at robert.baker@miamioh.edu. Applicants will need to submit a personal statement, CV, 3 letters of recommendation, GRE scores, proof English proficiency (if applicable), and baccalaureate transcripts via http://miamioh.edu/graduate-school/admission/. 
 

Graduate positions in parasite ecology and community ecology in the Bernot Lab at Ball State University

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The Bernot lab at Ball State University (http://cms.bsu.edu/academics/collegesanddepartments/biology/facultyandstaff/biofaculty/bernotrandal
l) is recruiting motivated new graduate students to begin in the Fall of 2018. Work in the lab centers on the roles that parasites play in animal behavior and ecological community structure and function. We mix theory, field, and laboratory approaches to learn more about parasite diversity and how parasites shape host phenotype and species interactions. Recent work has used ecological stoichiometry as a framework better understand how parasites alter nutrient cycling and energy flow in aquatic ecosystems. New student projects will not be limited to only aquatic systems, but will address interesting questions that test or shape ecological theory. Graduate students will be supported through teaching assistantships (2 years MS and 4 years PhD). I am specifically recruiting students interested in working with parasites of crickets and grasshoppers or have an interest in mermithid nematodes or nematomorphs that infect any number of hosts. The preferred candidates will be individuals that enjoy reading, love field work, and play nicely with others. Students will be expected to develop their own projects within the scope of the lab, but topics are open. Please contact Dr. Randy Bernot (rjbernot@bsu.edu), for more information. Additional information about our graduate programs can be found here (http://cms.bsu.edu/Academics/CollegesandDepartments/Biology/Academics/ProgramsofStudy/Masters.
aspx) and here (http://cms.bsu.edu/academics/collegesanddepartments/environmentalscience)
Ball State University is located in Muncie, Indiana and is within a short driving distance of Indianapolis, IN, Fort Wayne, IN, and Dayton, OH.
Deadline for full teaching assistantship consideration is January 31, 2018.

Paid Summer Internship opportunities!

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Expand your horizons with a paid internship!
Do you have an interest in ecology, natural resource management, environmental education, science communication, environmental policy, or social science as it relates to our natural resources? 
Are you interested in exploring a career path you may not have considered yet, instead of looking for a summer job?  If so, then apply to become an intern with the National Great Rivers Research and Education Center.
 The National Great Rivers Research and Education Center is offering up to 22 paid internships throughout the Midwest focused on a variety of topics. Project summaries, requirements, and location for each project can be downloaded here or by visiting our internship website (http://www.ngrrec.org/Internship/). The program starts with a week-long short course at NGRREC’s field station in East Alton, IL before students depart for their various project locations. At the end of the summer, students will return to present their work in a professional, two-day Intern Symposium attended by their peers, research advisors, and other professionals.
We encourage all students to apply, including community and junior college students, students who are undecided in their career path, and students who would like to explore including science, research, or education and outreach as a component of their educational growth.
In addition to the $5,000 stipend paid in two installments during the summer, we expect to have $1,000 in reimbursement funds to assist students with their summer housing and, if necessary, relocation costs. Program staff will assist students in finding suitable housing at their internship location, if needed.
Now accepting applications!
All applications are due via online submission by midnight January 23, 2018. 
Minimum Requirements: A student must have a GPA 3.25 or higher. Attendance at the Intern Program Short Course (May 21-25) and Intern Symposium (July 30-31) is required if accepted as an intern. All application materials must be submitted online (no email submissions accepted) by the application deadline (Jan. 23).
 
Required Application Materials: All application materials must be submitted electronically within the online application form by the January 23 deadline.
1)      Biographical sketch – Submit a brief statement (100 words or less) about yourself, your interests, and where you see yourself career-wise in 5 years. This information will be included in the August symposium proceedings.
2)     College transcript – Unofficial copy will suffice as long as your name is clearly visible on the transcript. A screenshot or a typed Word version of your transcript will not be accepted.
3)     Resume – Include all relevant coursework, previous employment, internships, and volunteer positions. Organization name, location, and dates should be included.
4)     Cover letter (optional, but encouraged) – Feel free to include a cover letter outlining what makes you a good candidate for this internship. Include any additional information, such as your career and academic goals, that would help us assess your fit for our internship program. This also helps us match you to the right project.
To apply or see the summary of this year’s projects and locations visit: http://www.ngrrec.org/Apply/. Or begin your application here.
For questions or more information, please contact NGRREC Intern Program Coordinator, Natalie Marioni at ngrrecintern@lc.edu.
 
Natalie Marioni, Intern Program Coordinator
Director of Environmental Education and Citizen Science
National Great Rivers Research and Education Center (www.ngrrec.org)

Hawk counter, spring migration, NJ

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Hawk Counter Spring Migration Seasonal biologist/ornithologist needed to 
conduct survey of migrating birds of prey March 16 to May 15, 2018.  Location is the Montclair Hawk Lookout, Montclair, NJ.
Duties include identifying and recording migrating birds of prey, entering data into the Hawk Migration Association of North America database, and interacting with the public.
Specific duties include:
·            Identify and count all migrating raptors
·            Maintain daily data entry into new digital platform, and follow backup data procedures as needed
·            Keep appropriate records for rare sightings
·            Provide daily summaries for post on various NJ Audubon/Cape May Bird Observatory outlets
·            Some data entry in MS Excel possible
·            Provide end of season summary report for NJ Audubon publications in timely manner  
 
Qualifications:
·        Familiarity with bird migration and strong background identifying raptors in flight a must
·        Careful data collecting skills a must
·        Applicants should have experience interacting with the public and excellent interpersonal skills
·        An enthusiastic and motivated self-starter who is also a strong team player
·        Willingness to work irregular hours under sometimes difficult field conditions
·        Must be able to walk on uneven surfaces, climb multiple steep steps and lift 25 lbs. as necessary
·        All applicants must have their own vehicle, and a valid, driver’s license to operate a vehicle in NJ.
 
Start Date: March 16, 2018
End Date:  May 15, 2018
Salary: $1,500 – 1,800/month, commensurate with experience.  
 
Application Deadline: Position will be posted until filled.
 
Qualified individuals may apply by sending cover letter of interest, resume with relevant experience, and three references as a single PDF document (including email and phone contact info) to hr.cmboseasonal@njaudubon.org
Please list “Montclair” in the subject line so that your application is routed to the correct department.
New Jersey Audubon (NJA) is a privately supported, not-for profit, statewide membership organization. Founded in 1897, and one of the oldest independent Audubon societies, NJA is not connected with the National Audubon Society.  New Jersey Audubon is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).

New seasonal listing – George Myers Master Naturalist Intern

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GEORGE MYERS MASTER NATURALIST INTERN needed 23 March to 22 December 2018 Successful applicant develops a full spectrum of skills through hands-on participation in various educational, research and conservation projects at New Jersey Audubon’s Cape May Bird Observatory (CMBO) and Nature Center of Cape May (NCCM), Cape May, NJ.  Cape May is renowned as one of the world’s greatest hotspots for animal migration, as well as being a popular summertime vacation destination and beach resort. The combination of the two offers great opportunities for wildlife research and education through public outreach.  New Jersey Audubon fosters the application of sound scientific principles and practices to address conservation issues related to vertebrate and invertebrate fauna, and the natural habitats with which they are associated.  Major responsibilities include educational programming/field trips/workshops for visitors, children’s programming at summer nature camp, assisting with center interpretive displays, develop brochures and materials for web/blog sites.  Familiarity with bird migration, birding, marine species and coastal ecology a plus.  Bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology, ecology, environmental science or similar field preferred.  Motivated self-starter who is also a team player; excellent oral and written skills required. Strong computer skills, and ability to relate to a diverse range of people and exercise cultural competence and inclusion; willingness to work irregular hours under sometimes difficult conditions and ability to walk over uneven terrain for long distances.  Must have own vehicle and a valid, clean driver’s license.  Salary $1500/month.  Housing provided.   Send cover letter indicating position of interest, resume outlining relevant experience, and three references (including email address and phone number) as a single pdf document by email to hr.cmboseasonal@njaudubon.org.  Application deadline 31 January 2018.  NJ Audubon is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
 
 

Job opportunity: Summer Research Assistants – Tree Improvement Lab, Department of Renewable Resources, University of Alberta

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We are seeking 5 summer research assistants with an interest in forest genetics, ecology, physiology or ecophysiology to work on a number of tree improvement-related research projects located across Alberta. This position is a four month contract starting May 1, 2018. 
 
Our lab and current projects: The research in this lab aims to answer fundamental and applied questions related to tree breeding and forest genetics. Current projects include understanding hybrid vigour in balsam poplar, investigating mechanisms behind poor seed yields and conelet abortion in a lodgepole pine orchard, understanding links between aspen clone size and gender, and integrating genomics into traditional tree breeding methods to generate climate and pest-resistant trees. For more information on current and ongoing projects, visit our lab website: http://people.ales.ualberta.ca/barbthomas.
 
Qualifications: Preference will be given to undergraduate students or recent graduates that are hard working, enthusiastic, able to work well in teams and also self-manage responsibilities. Students should also be detail-oriented, adaptable to change and respectful with equipment. To be eligible for this position you should have a full driver’s license (class 5 Alberta or equivalent) with a clean abstract and a cumulative GPA greater than 3.0 (out of 4). Previous field and/or lab work in a related field (i.e. forestry or ecology) is an asset. 
 
Additional information: Locations of work include within the University of Alberta, University of
Alberta greenhouses, and various pine, white spruce, and poplar trials across Alberta. Salary is roughly $2300/month. The closing date for this position is January 15, 2017 or until the position has been filled. 
 
Prospective students can apply by emailing a cover letter, resume, the contact information for three references, and unofficial transcripts to Dr. Barb Thomas (bthomas@ualberta.ca) and cc Morgan Randall (mrandall@ualberta.ca). 

 

Ph.D. assistantship in Avian Physiological Ecology

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Ph.D. Graduate Research Assistantship

Ph.D. assistantship in Avian Physiological Ecology (beginning September 2018) on an NSF- and USDA- funded project that focuses on how diet and nutritional requirements affect the spatial ecology and exercise performance of songbirds during migration stopover. The work includes measuring diet composition and fatty acid composition of depot fat in migrating songbirds, and conducting experiments with wild-caught songbirds that focus on how dietary antioxidants influence diet choice, metabolism, and exercise physiology of migratory birds. Most fieldwork will be conducted on Block Island (ca. 15 km off the mainland), Rhode Island. Captive animal facilities are on the University of Rhode Island’s main campus in Kingston.

Only hard-working, motivated, intelligent, good-natured persons interested in birds need apply.
Applicants must have at least a 3.2 GPA and must have taken the GRE.  Field experience with passerine birds, experience in physiological ecology and quantitative analyses, and a BSc degree in a relevant field of biology is required.  Ability to work collaboratively and to supervise research assistants and undergraduates working in the field is also required. Experience with captive birds, standard laboratory analysis techniques, and an MSc degree in a relevant field of science would be big pluses. Excellent writing and oral communication skills are required. Stipends are approx. $25,000/yr (a combination of RA & TA), tuition is paid, and an additional summer stipend is provided.

To apply submit the following: a letter stating your qualifications and research interests, resume or CV, college transcripts, GRE scores, and 3 letters of reference by no later than 15 January 2018 (early application is encouraged!) to Dr. Scott R. McWilliams, Dept. Natural Resources Science, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881 (401-874-7531; srmcwilliams@uri.edu).

Graduate students will be trained in the Ecology & Ecosystem Science graduate specialization within the Biological & Environmental Science graduate program (http://web.uri.edu/cels-gradprograms/ees/) at URI. This is an interdepartmental graduate group within our College of the Environment and Life Sciences (http://web.uri.edu/cels/) that is designed to provide students with a strong, interdisciplinary and integrative learning environment.

Graduate position: UWisconsin_Madison.InvasiveInsectAdaptation

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University of Wisconsin-Madison MS and PhD positions on molecular
adaptation of invasive insects

Position Description:
MS and/or PhD research assistantships are available to assess how
invasive insects adapt to novel environments in the Molecular Ecology
Lab at UW Madison. Insect pests can be viewed as model systems in which
to explore fundamental concepts in ecology and evolutionary biology.
They are especially promising candidates to study mechanisms of rapid
evolution at the genetic level, as many insect pests have shown a
remarkable ability to cope with pesticides, novel climatic space, and
novel host plants. While there are significant challenges in determining
adaptation at the genetic level and in finding ways to forecast future
changes, there are strong incentives (ecological, economic and social)
to do this research. Students will combine population genomics
approaches with field ecology and manipulative experiments to understand
the evolutionary mechanisms of adaptation. Training will focus on the
use of population genomics and physiological approaches to relate
spatial and temporal variation in the environment to adaptive genetic
variation.

Information on University, Department, Lab, and City:
The University of Wisconsin-Madison is one of the major research
universities in the United States. This project will be supported in the
Department of Entomology and under the supervision of Dr. Sean
Schoville.  Madison consistently ranks as one of the best places in the
United States to live, work, and study. It is Wisconsin’s capital city,
with a vibrant population of approximately 230,000 that combines small
town charm with a variety of leisure and cultural opportunities.

Stipend/Salary:
Current annual stipend levels are $22,081 per year before taxes, plus
tuition remission and health care benefits.  Financial support is
available for two years.  The start date for the project is September 2018.

Qualifications:
A BS or BA degree in entomology, biology or a related discipline is
required.

We are looking for motivated students interested in pursuing a MS or PhD
degree at UW-Madison. Students with an MS degree will be given
preference in admissions to the PhD program. The preferred candidate
will have prior research experience and have some knowledge of
population genetics. Candidates should have interests in entomology,
evolutionary ecology, and working in both the field and laboratory.
Excellent writing and verbal communication skills are expected, as well
as the ability to work collaboratively.

Application Process:
Applications will be reviewed upon receipt and review will continue
until candidates are chosen.  The application deadline is Jan 9, 2018.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an equal opportunity/affirmative
action employer. We promote excellence through diversity and encourage
all qualified individuals to apply.

Interested applicants are asked to e-mail the following documents listed
below to our Student Services Coordinator Sara Rodock (rodock@wisc.edu)
(in ONE PDF file please).  Please specify in your letter when you would
be available to start.

Required Documents:
-The “Entomology; University of Wisconsin-Madison Graduate Application
Cover Sheet” which can be found at:
http://www.entomology.wisc.edu/sites/default/files/schoville_coversheet.doc
– A well-crafted cover letter outlining research interests, academic and
professional backgrounds
– Resume/CV
– Copies of transcripts (unofficial copies acceptable at this point)
– GRE scores if available
– Names and contact addresses of three references

—
Sean Schoville
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Department of Entomology
1630 Linden Drive
637 Russell Labs
Madison, WI 53706
Office phone: 608-262-2956
http://labs.russell.wisc.edu/molecularecology

sean.schoville@wisc.edu

2018 Great Lakes Summer Fellowships – Accepting Applications!

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2018 Great Lakes Summer Fellows Program
 
The Cooperative Institute for Great Lakes Research (CIGLR) announces the 2018 Great Lakes Summer Fellows Program, in partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Great Lakes Environmental Research Lab (GLERL). The Great Lakes Summer Fellows Program exposes students to a broad range of disciplines and provides an exciting opportunity for students to conduct research in the Great Lakes region under the mentorship of a CIGLR or GLERL scientist. 
 
Description:
  • We are offering eight (8) full-time, twelve-week positions. All positions are located at the NOAA Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL), 4840 South State Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48108.
  • Positions will last for twelve weeks from the start date. The start date will be in early May, but this can be flexible (i.e., early June start) based on the selected candidate’s schedule or project needs. 
  • We seek to use these fellowships to increase diversity in STEM disciplines and strongly encourage applications from students who identify with groups that have been traditionally underrepresented in government and academic workforces.
  • There is a stipend of $6,500 for the twelve-week period, paid in two installments of $3,250.
Eligibility: 
  • The program is limited to currently enrolled undergraduate (juniors and seniors preferred) and graduate students. We will also consider post-baccalaureate or post-masters students who have graduated within the past 12 months (of your fellow position start date) if the position fits directly within a student’s career goals.
  • You must be either a U.S. citizen or a foreign national who is residing in the U.S. on a current Student Visa. 
  • Immediate relatives of any CIGLR or NOAA GLERL employees are not eligible to participate in this program, consistent with NOAA guidelines.
 
To Apply:
 
Visit the CIGLR website for application & more information: ciglr.seas.umich.edu/opportunities/student-fellowships/
 
Deadline: 
 
18 February 2018 at 11:59 PM EST
 
Contact Information:
Mary E. Ogdahl
Program Manager
Cooperative Institute for Great Lakes Research
University of Michigan | 440 Church Street | G110 Dana Building
Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1041

Graduate position- UW Madison

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University of Wisconsin-Madison MS and PhD positions on molecular adaptation of invasive insects

Position Description:
MS and/or PhD research assistantships are available in the Molecular Ecology Lab at UW Madison to assess how invasive insects adapt to novel environments. Insect pests can be viewed as model systems in which to explore fundamental concepts in ecology and evolutionary biology. They are especially promising candidates to study mechanisms of rapid evolution at the genetic level, as many insect pests have shown a remarkable ability to cope with pesticides, novel climatic space, and novel host plants. While there are significant challenges in determining adaptation at the genetic level and in finding ways to forecast future changes, there are strong incentives (ecological, economic and social) to do this research. Students will combine population genomics approaches with field ecology and manipulative experiments to understand the evolutionary mechanisms of adaptation. Training will focus on the use of population genomics and physiological approaches to relate spatial and temporal variation in the environment to adaptive genetic variation.

Information on University, Department, Lab, and City:
The University of Wisconsin-Madison is one of the major research universities in the United States. This project will be supported in the Department of Entomology and under the supervision of Dr. Sean Schoville.
Madison consistently ranks as one of the best places in the United States to live, work, and study. It is Wisconsin’s capital city, with a vibrant population of approximately 230,000 that combines small town charm with a variety of leisure and cultural opportunities.

Stipend/Salary:
Current annual stipend levels are $22,081 per year before taxes, plus tuition remission and health care benefits.  Financial support is available for two years.  The start date for the project is September 2018.

Qualifications:
A BS or BA degree in entomology, biology or a related discipline is required.

We are looking for motivated students interested in pursuing a MS or PhD degree at UW-Madison. Students with an MS degree will be given preference in admissions to the PhD program. The preferred candidate will have prior research experience and have some knowledge of population genetics.
Candidates should have interests in entomology, evolutionary ecology, and working in both the field and laboratory. Excellent writing and verbal communication skills are expected, as well as the ability to work collaboratively.

Application Process:
Applications will be reviewed upon receipt and review will continue until candidates are chosen.  The application deadline is Jan 9, 2018. The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. We promote excellence through diversity and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.

Interested applicants are asked to e-mail the following documents listed below to our Student Services Coordinator Sara Rodock (rodock@wisc.edu) (in ONE PDF file please).  Please specify in your letter when you would be available to start.

Required Documents:
-The “Entomology; University of Wisconsin-Madison Graduate Application Cover Sheet” which can be found at:
http://www.entomology.wisc.edu/sites/default/files/schoville_coversheet.doc
– A well-crafted cover letter outlining research interests, academic and professional backgrounds
– Resume/CV
– Copies of transcripts (unofficial copies acceptable at this point)
– GRE scores if available
– Names and contact addresses of three references