Month: May 2018

Field assistant position: Red squirrels in Yukon, Canada

Field Assistant Posting: North American Red Squirrels in the Yukon
Position Description and Duties: We are looking for an intern to assist with fieldwork on resource availability and caching behaviour in a population of North American red squirrels. The intern will assist a graduate student (Andrea Wishart, PhD student) to observe squirrel behaviour, demarcate squirrel territories, quantify resources (white spruce cones) and assist with data entry and verification. Tasks will include regular live-trapping and handling of squirrels, collaring. All procedures have ethical approval through the participant universities. Anticipated start date is June 1, 2018 and preference will be given to those who can start then or as soon as possible thereafter. End date is September 30, 2018. The intern must be comfortable working independently in the forest as necessary (radios are provided).
All fieldwork is carried out in the spectacular Kluane region of southwestern Yukon, Canada, at sites along the Alaska Highway between the Ruby Mountains and the St Elias Mountains (some of the tallest mountains in the country), ~2.5 hours driving from Whitehorse. The intern will directly interact with other researchers at the field station working on a diversity of species (Canada lynx and snowshoe hares), as well as a diversity of red squirrel researchers from across 5 universities involved with the Kluane Red Squirrel Project.
Skills required: The successful candidate will have previous fieldwork experience in a similar work environment. Good organizational, multi-tasking and communication skills are essential. The successful applicant will also have experience in data entry. Successful applicants will need to be able to cope under these field conditions, enjoy the outdoors, be up-beat, positive, responsible and work well as a member of their own team, as well as other users of the area (i.e., other researchers). Evidence of these abilities (gained, for example, through previous involvement on field projects or extended back-packing trips.
Terms of Employment: Salary is not provided as part of these positions. Accommodation and food are provided. Volunteers are required to provide for their own travel to Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Travel between Saskatoon and the field station is provided.
International applicants: We welcome applications from all individuals. If applicants are not Canadians or permanent residents, there is the opportunity to enter Canada and complete the internship as a Visiting Research Student. To be eligible for this program, you must be an undergraduate student, a graduate student, or be in between degrees (e.g., following graduation from a bachelor’s degree and looking to pursue graduate school). As part of this program, applicants will be registered at the U of S in a non-credit activity and it is expected that you will gain a demonstrable educational benefit from being involved. We are particularly interested in applicants who wish to use this opportunity to pursue an independent research project. Applicants are eligible for this program for a maximum of 6 months per 12 month period. Application forms and information are available at http://grad.usask.ca/admissions/alternate-applicants/visiting-research-student.php If you are interested in this program, please contact us (contact details below) and we will guide you through the process.
If you wish to apply for this position, please send a CV with a cover letter and contact details of two references (with e-mail address), by email to Andrea Wishart (contact info below) before May 20, 2018. Only those selected for interview will be contacted.
Contact: Andrea Wishart, Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan
usaskredsquirrel@gmail.com
More information: www.redsquirrel.ca www.lanelab.com

Funded MS Position in Biological Oceanography at URI

The McMahon Ocean Ecogeochemistry Lab (https://web.uri.edu/gso/kelton-mcmahon/) at the University of Rhode Island’s Graduate School of Oceanography is looking for a highly motivated graduate student (MS) for a funded research position. This project will develop novel molecular geochemistry tracers to understand phytoplankton community dynamics. The student will work 1) design and implement a series of phytoplankton culture experiments in the Marine Science Research Facility (https://web.uri.edu/marinefacility/) at URI, and 2) analyze and interpret cutting-edge compound-specific stable isotope data to develop a new library of amino acid isotope fingerprints for coastally-relevant eukaryotic phytoplankton that can be used to examine the sources and cycling of organic matter in marine ecosystems. This work is funded through the multi-institution Rhode Island Consortium For Coastal Ecology Assessment Innovation & Modeling (https://web.uri.edu/rinsfepscor/). RI C-AIM was established through an NSF EPSCoR grant to assess, predict, and respond to the effects of climate variability on Narragansett Bay. Additional collaborative research opportunities exist in our lab within this NSF-funded project.
 
The MS student will be involved in all aspects of the culturing laboratory work, the molecular geochemistry work, and the data synthesis and interpretation for the project duration. The student will gain expertise in conducting controlled laboratory culturing experiments as well as in analyzing and interpreting compound-specific stable isotope data. The student will take lead, under the supervision of Dr. McMahon, in writing publications and presenting findings at national conferences. The student will also have the opportunity to work with Dr. Breea Govenar at RIC (http://www.ric.edu/biology/cv/Pages/Breea-Govenar.aspx) to facilitate data interpretation. As part of this lab exchange, the MS student will have the opportunity to serve as a mentor for an undergraduate research assistant from RIC.     
 
The position starts this fall in September 2018.  The position is based at the University of Rhode Island’s Graduate School of Oceanography (https://web.uri.edu/gso/). The position will be supported by research and potentially teaching assistantships that cover a stipend, tuition, and health benefits.

Desired qualifications:
– BS in biology, ecology, marine/environmental sciences or a related field
– Strong background in biology and chemistry, Ideally GPA >3.5
– Excellent time management, interpersonal, and team/collaborative skills
– Demonstrated skills in a laboratory setting (e.g., excellent note taking, ability to work independently, attention to detail)
– Ability to use, or willingness to learn, advanced statistical methods and packages (e.g., R)

The review of initial applications will start on June 11 and continue until a suitable candidate is identified.
To apply, send (1) a short cover letter summarizing your interests, educational goals, and qualifications, (2) a CV, including GPA and relevant research experience, (3) transcripts (unofficial OK at this stage), and (4) contacts for two references to Dr. Kelton McMahon (kelton_mcmahon@uri.edu) as a single PDF file. Please use “Phytoplankton Research Assistantship” in the email subject line. Selected candidates will be asked to submit a full application (with official transcripts, reference letters, and GRE reports) to GSO-URI (https://web.uri.edu/graduate-school/admission/) as soon as possible.

 
Info on the McMahon Ocean Ecogeochemistry Lab can be found here:
https://keltonmcmahon.com
 
Info on the MS program at URI’s Graduate School of Oceanography can be found here:
 
Info on student life at the University of Rhode Island can be found here:
https://web.uri.edu/gso/who-we-are/narragansett-bay-campus/student-life/

Wilderness Inventory and Monitoring Technician – Wells, Nevada

Description:
In cooperation with the U.S. Forest Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, the Great Basin Institute is recruiting two (2) Wilderness Inventory & Monitoring Technicians. The Technicians will play a key role in collecting data that will be utilized by the Forest in their efforts to accomplish inventory and monitoring work for one Wilderness Stewardship Performance element, Agency Management Actions. Technicians will work in two distinct Wilderness areas, including the Jarbidge and East Humboldts wildernesses. The monitoring and inventory efforts are intended to raise the wilderness stewardship performance scores for the Agency Management Action element from zero to four.  For more on the US Forest Service Wilderness Stewardship Performance Program and the Agency Management Action element, please visit the following website:  https://www.wilderness.net/NWPS/documents/FS/WSP-Guidebook_v2017.2.pdf 
 
Wilderness Technicians often make public contacts to educate visitors about forest rules and regulations as well as to provide information and answer questions. Work will be accomplished in remote settings both on and off-trail, so a focus on personal as well co-worker safety is essential. Overnight stays involve camping in a tent in a remote backcountry setting are required.  Field hitches may last anywhere from 3 to 8 days at a time. The ideal candidate for this position will possess a demonstrated true love for wilderness, backcountry and a desire to spend time there.
 

Timeline:
This is a 9 week AmeriCorps national service appointment from June 11, 2018 to August 9, 2018.
 
 
Technical requirements:
o A combination of educational and/or field experiences related to public land or wilderness management, recreation or other natural resource filed;
o Experience recreating or working in the wilderness or backcountry, including knowledge and proficiency in backcountry travel;
o Experience implementing field data collection protocols accurately and completely;
o Prior experience with wilderness inventory and monitoring protocols, desirable but not required;
o Experience working with hand-held GPS equipment for navigation and data collection;
o Knowledge of GIS software, highly desirable but not required; and
o Experience summarizing data and field experiences in written format.
 
Additional requirements:
o Possess a valid, state-issued drivers license and clean driving record;
o Experience operating 4WD trucks on and off paved roads setting, including narrow, mountain forest roads;
o Ability to work productively as part of a team to accomplish mutual goals; 
o Effectively communicate orally or in writing with a diverse public;
o Possess good organizational skills;
o Ability to work in harsh and rapidly changing environments, work in all types of weather conditions, traverse uneven terrain, be very physically fit and able to carry upwards of 50-70 pounds in a backpack; 
o Comfortable in very remote settings with experience in backcountry situations for several days and a willingness to camp in remote, improved and unimproved wilderness areas; and
o Meet AmeriCorps eligibility requirements: (1) U.S. citizenship or legal resident alien status, (2) eligible to receive an AmeriCorps Education Award (limit of four in a lifetime, or equivalent of two full-time terms of service), and (3) pass National Sex Offender Public Registry (NSOPR) and federal criminal background checks.
 
Location:
 
  The crew will be based in Wells, NV, which is located in northeastern Nevada east of Elko, NV along the I-80 corridor. This area of eastern Nevada is rich in outdoor activities with the Jarbidge Wilderness and Lamoille Canyon recreation area within close proximity. Wells is approximately 30 minutes east of Elko, NV, 2.5 hours (181 miles) west of Salt Lake City, UT, and 2 hours (115 miles) south of Twin Falls, ID.
 
Compensation:
This is an AmeriCorps position; candidates will receive a living stipend dependent on their length of service. The living stipend is a fixed amount, not an hourly wage or a salary. The stipend is paid to members in bi-weekly installments throughout their term of service. Upon completion of AmeriCorps service members shall receive an additional education award also dependent on the length of service that can be used for paying off student loans or paying tuition for a Title IV accredited college.
 
• 9 week (300 hour) AmeriCorps service term: $2,700 living stipend (approximately $630 every two weeks before taxes) 
 
Education Award:
Upon successful completion of your term you will be given access to your Segal Education award which can be used for Title IV university/college tuition or to pay for federal student loans. The education award is only considered taxable income on the day you use the award. 
 
Education Award amounts are dependent on the length of your term: 
 
• 3 month (450 hour) AmeriCorps service term: $1,230.69
 
Per Diem:
For every day you work in the field with us you will receive $15.00. This is in addition to your Living Allowance and on average is $120.00 biweekly. Crews typically combine per diem funds and shop/prepare meals as a team.
 
Skills & Education:
You will be certified in First Aid and CPR.
 
Optional Training & Education we will provide include:
• Defensive Driving Certification
• Off-Road Driving Class
• GPS Unit Training
 
Other Benefits:
 
Insurance:
Affordable Care Act Compliant Health, Dental and Vision Insurance will be completely paid for at no cost to you by the Great Basin Institute and available starting your first day of service.
 
Loan Forbearance:
If you are currently paying on any federal student loans you have the option to put those loans into forbearance during your time as an AmeriCorps volunteer, that will allow you to cease payments while serving. 
 
Interest Accrual Repayment:
As AmeriCorps alum, you are eligible to have the National Service Trust pay all or a portion of the interest that accumulated on your qualified student loan(s) during your term of service. These payments are made in addition to the Education Award, and are not deducted from your Education Award balance. To be eligible to have accrued interest paid: The loan must have been placed in forbearance for the service period, and you must have successfully completed a term of service and received an Education Award.
 
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Eligibility:
AmeriCorps Volunteers qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The Nevada Conservation Corps will provide you documentation in proving that you qualify for SNAP.
 
Educational Affiliation Agreements (College Credit):
The Nevada Conservation Corps will take part in Affiliation Agreements with your university in order to allow you to receive college credit hours for your term of service.
 

Graduate position: SouthernConnStateU.HumanModifiedEvolution

M.S. position: Evolution & conservation in human-modified environment

Start date: August 2018

A research assistantship to support a M.S. student is available for the
2018-19 academic year in the Brady Lab at Southern Connecticut State
University (New Haven, CT, USA). Candidates with interest or expertise
in evolution, conservation, aquatic ecology, genomics, and/or epigenetics
are particularly encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities for this position may include:
-Coordinating and executing field (especially aquatic) and laboratory experiments
-DNA/RNA extractions; Western blot assays
-Image analysis; microscope work with preserved amphibian specimens
-Data analysis / synthesis and database management
-Dissemination (writing manuscripts, presenting at meetings)
-Lab management and maintenance
-Maintenance of lab website and social media

Independent thesis research will be encouraged and the awardee will
be expected to apply for internal and external grants to support their
research.

ABOUT THE FELLOWSHIP:
The awardee will complete 20-hours of work per week and must be
enrolled full time in the graduate program. The award will be
made initially for the fall 2018 semester and, contingent upon
performance, can be renewed for the spring 2019 semester. The
position includes a stipend of $6,000 per semester and a waiver
of University fees (as described by the Graduate Catalogue
http://catalog.southernct.edu/graduate/general-information/financial-aid.html).

Additional details about the fellowship can be found here
(under “Graduate Student Graduate Assistantship”):
http://www.southernct.edu/academics/graduate/research/student-research/graduatefellowships.html

TO APPLY:
Email CV, unofficial undergraduate transcript, and a cover letter to
brady.steven@gmail.com. Pre-application inquiries are welcome.

Applications will be considered as they are received. All applications
received by May 21, 2018 will be given full consideration. The selected
candidate will then be required to successfully apply and matriculate
in the Graduate School. Graduate School Admission details can be found
here: https://www.southernct.edu/gradadmissions/index.html

Research technician, switchgrass ecology and genomics

We seek an energetic, motivated research technician to participate in experiments on the ecology, physiology, and genomics of switchgrass. This is an opportunity to participate in integrative research studying the genetic basis of ecological processes in an important native grass species. The position will be administered through the University of Texas at Austin and stationed with Philip Fay’s group at the USDA Grassland, Soil, and Water Lab in Temple, TX (https://www.ars.usda.gov/plains-area/temple-tx/grassland-soil-and-water-research-laboratory/people/philip-fay/). This position will initially be for 6 months with possible extensions based on job performance, progress towards research goals, and new funding acquisition.
To apply, please submit a cover letter, CV, and contact information for three references tohttps://utdirect.utexas.edu/apps/hr/jobs/nlogon/180507024222. Direct any questions about the position to Robert Heckman ([robert.heckman@utexas.edu]robert.heckman@utexas.edu). Review of applications will begin immediately and the position will remain open until filled. Start date is negotiable, but preference will be given to applicants who are available by mid-June.
Additional Information
Purpose of position
The research assistant will work on experiments studying switchgrass ecology, physiology, and genomics. The position will involve a combination of plant propagation and greenhouse work, the completion of field experiments, and lab processing of field samples.
 
Essential functions
Assist in the establishment, maintenance, and completion of switchgrass field experiments. Assist in the collection, processing, and analysis of plant samples harvested from field experiments. Utilize a variety of scientific instruments to collect data from field experiments. Lab processing of fields samples and greenhouse work. Collect, maintain and analyze research data. Maintain physical structures associated with switchgrass experiments. Assist in the curation, distribution and analysis of data arising from research.
 
Licenses:
Class “C” Operator’s Driver’s License. Applicant selected must provide a current three year Driving Record from the current state of residence. If not currently a Texas resident, must obtain a Texas Driver’s License within 30 days after entering Texas as a new resident.
 
Marginal/Incidental functions
Other related functions as assigned, including assisting in other experiments conducted by collaborating researchers. General lab tasks and routine equipment maintenance.
 
Required qualifications
BA or BS degree in ecology, biology, agronomy, or related field. Must have passed laboratory or research skills courses related to degree. Must possess an independent, organized, and motivated attitude.
 
Preferred qualifications
Experience in plant propagation, field plot establishment and maintenance, plant physiological measurements, such as leaf gas exchange, light interception, and tissue nutrient content.
 
Working conditions
May work in all weather conditions. May work in extreme temperatures. May work around standard office conditions. May work around chemicals. Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation. Use of manual dexterity. Climbing of stairs. Climbing of ladders. Lifting and moving. Field work may require lifting and moving supplies/equipment weighing 50 pounds.
 
 
 

CA Fish and Wildlife scientific aid

We’re still looking to hire 1 scientific aid for the upcoming field season. This is a limited term 9 month position conducting fish surveys out in the San Francisco Bay/Delta. Please see the job posting for details and contact Randy Baxter with any questions.
 

Data manager in a Spatial Ecology lab, Univ Florida, Fort Lauderdale FL

Subject: Data manager in a Spatial Ecology lab, Univ Florida, Fort Lauderdale FL

The MabLab at the University of Florida is recruiting a Data Manager to fill an immediate opening for the position of Biological Scientist in the lab. We are looking for an enthusiastic, highly motivated and responsible individual to join an exciting research team focused on spatial ecology.
The Data Manager will be responsible for the group’s database system, and will assist with multiple projects investigating for instance animal fine-scale movement in urban areas, or migration and range dynamics in the context of climate change.

The primary mission of the Data Manager will be to manage the group’s database system: we run a PostgreSQL/PostGIS database system on a Linux server, which hosts telemetry data on wood storks, sea turtles, raccoons, and associated GIS layers. In the near future, we will be adding advanced data from albatrosses, including accelerometers and infrasound. The Data Manager will manage the database server (database design, manual and automated data entry, metadata, set permissions for users and groups, backups, development of web apps to access and display data, etc.).
Additional responsibilities will include assisting members of the group with data processing, and maintaining our open source R packages (rpostgis, rpostgisLT, hab…).

Familiarity with SQL is essential. Experience using PostgreSQL/PostGIS (or other SIG database systems) and R is a plus, as well as experience with Linux systems and database servers.

The candidate must be able to work independently and with others in a fast-paced environment, and should be comfortable working across agency boundaries (University of Florida, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S.
Geological Survey and the National Park Service, etc.), making excellent written and oral communication skills essential for this position.

* Qualifications: B.S. with experience in Data Science, Computing, GIS, Biology or a related field. Must be eligible to work in the United States.

* Salary: Commensurate with qualifications and past experience (typically $40–50k/year with benefits).

* Start Date: Flexible, as early as June 1st, 2018. This is a permanent position from the University of Florida.

* Closing Date: Review of applications will begin on May 15th, 2018, and will continue until the position is filled.

* Application: Apply on UF Jobs website (job #507275):
http://explore.jobs.ufl.edu/cw/en-us/job/507275/biological-scientist-ii-data-manager
Applications should include:
– a cover letter with information about professional interests, qualifications, dates of availability, and current contact information;
– a resume;
– names and phone numbers of three references.

For more information, don’t hesitate to contact me!
Mathieu Basille

Job Posting – Nature Discovery Camp/Outdoor Educators needed near Austin, Texas

Camp Description
El Ranchito’s mission is to connect children with the natural world by providing an extraordinarily fun and inspiring nature-immersion camping experience. Campers intimately experience the land, its plants and animals, its creeks, and the starry night sky. A primitive tent camp, where staff and campers sleep, makes experiencing the natural world fun and safe for campers.The camp site is located on the Shield Ranch, just 20 miles southwest of Austin. El Ranchito is a project of the Shield Ranch Foundation in collaboration with El Buen Samaritano Episcopal Mission and Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center.
 
Position Description
Six camp counselors will work with 4th-9th graders in three week-long sessions, each for two grades only (4th-5th, 6th-7th, 8th-9th). Counselors will be responsible for engaging campers in group circle times, a variety of nature-focused activities, recreation, field trips, and journaling. During the camp sessions, each paired counselor team will be responsible for 8 campers 24-hours a day (including all meal times) with designated refresh time on rotation.
 
Employment and Camp Residency dates are June 8 – July 10.
 
Residency includes staff training and camp sessions with designated off and refresh time
 
Salary: $2,300 (plus $300 if selected to serve as lifeguard; pay rate for approved hours worked
outside of Employment Dates is $14/hr)
Classification: Seasonal Employment, health benefits not provided
 
Duties include but are not limited to:
  • work with the staff to help prepare camp site and take part in staff training week
  • facilitate nature-immersion and recreation activities with campers
  • model 100% involvement with the program and commitment to the campers having fun in nature
  • promote conservation values with children and staff
  • participate in camp duty rotation with assigned crew
  • serve as a healthy role model and guide providing insight, direction, nurture and support for campers
  • cultivate effective working relationships with staff, volunteers, and camp participants
  • live in a tent for camp duration — sharing quarters with one or more staff members
  • support other staff as needed and contribute to the weekly camp evaluation and final evaluation after camp sessions end
Qualification Requirements
  • two or more years of college or at least two years of related work experience required; experience in natural sciences or outdoor studies preferred
  • preferred qualifications: proficiency in Spanish; lifeguard certification ($300 supplement)
  • experience working with children ages 9-14
  • experience tent camping, hiking, and exploring in natural areas
  • experience working with children in outdoor and organized residential camp settings preferred
  • willing to accept supervision, work independently and as part of a team
  • willing to live in a tent camp setting without running water, air conditioning and use of electronics
  • willing to follow a camp dress code
  • proof of required CPR and Basic First Aid Certification (or better) before camp employment begins
  • completion of a child protection course (part of our staff training)
  • background check required. any candidate with a felony conviction will be disqualified
no tobacco, drugs, alcohol, or weapons are permitted at El Ranchito
 
 
Please submit application and resumé to employment@elranchito.org

hawk counter,l fall migration, seasonal

Hawk Counter Fall Migration Seasonal biologist/ornithologist needed to conduct survey of migrating birds of prey.
Responsibilities:  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.
 
Duties:
·            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: August 25, 2018
End Date:  November 30, 2018
Salary: $1500 – $1800/month (paid on a bi-weekly basis), commensurate with experience.  Housing and gas reimbursement available.
 
Application Deadline:   June 15, 2018
Qualified individuals may apply by sending cover letter of interest, resume, and three references as a single PDF document (including email and phone contact info) to hr.cmboseasonal@njaudubon.org
Please indicate in the subject line the position for which you are applying.
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).
 
 
René Buccinna
Administrative Assistant, Research and Education
NJ Audubon
Phone: 609-400-3852
 
Connecting people with nature since 1897
 

Job: UNebraskaLincoln.2ResTech.DrosophilaEvol

The Meiklejohn lab at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln
(https://meiklejohnlab.unl.edu) has two open positions for laboratory
research technicians. Technicians will be responsible for contributing
to ongoing scientific research in the lab, overseeing Drosophila stock
maintenance, preparing Drosophila media, ordering reagents and supplies,
and assisting in the training and coordination of undergraduate research
in the lab.  Research will focus on investigation of X-linked hybrid
male sterility in Drosophila, using genetic, gene expression, and
cytological methods to investigate spermatogenesis in sterile hybrid
males.  Applicants must have a BS, BA, or MA degree in biology or a
related field.  Relevant experience includes prior academic training
in genetics and/or evolution, experience with Drosophila husbandry,
familiarity with molecular biology techniques and strong organizational
skills.  Starting annual salary will be between $25 – $30,000 depending
on experience, plus health care benefits.  The expected start date will
be between June and September 2018.  Applications must be received by
May 15 for full consideration, but the positions will remain open until
filled.  Interested applicants should send a cover letter describing
their past research experience and why they are interested in the
position, a resume or CV, and contact information for three references
to cmeiklejohn2@unl.edu.

Colin Meiklejohn <cmeiklejohn2@unl.edu>