Month: December 2018

Monarch Project State Coordinator Positions Available

From the pollinator.org mailing list.  If you’re particularly interested in pollinators, you might want to subscribe to that list.

David Inouye

Project Wingspan State Coordinator
Part Time

Project Wingspan State Coordinator (OH, IN, MI, PA, WI)
*Note: One individual will be hired for each state – 5 positions total

Pollinator Partnership (P2) seeks to hire motivated and detail-oriented Project Wingspan State Coordinators in Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. The Project Wingspan State Coordinators will provide programmatic support for Project Wingspan: Landscape Enhancement for Imperiled Pollinators of the Midwest (PW), a collaborative pollinator habitat initiative with numerous partners across an 8 state region. PW is a multi-component project to address the alarming decline in pollinators and the fragmentation of habitat through seed collection, technical training, enhancing and securing long-term habitat. This project is an expansion of the Monarch Wings Across the Eastern Broadleaf Forest project (https://pollinator.org/mwaebf), and part of Pollinator Partnership’s wider Monarch Wings Across America program.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities
The State Coordinators are responsible for the following duties and others as assigned:

  • Work with and report to project leads to learn program technical content
  • Collaborate with partners and project leads to develop and manage the temporary seed collection network in their state
  • Oversee, plan, and lead volunteer seed collection training, collection team, and shipments
  • Assist with distribution of plant materials their state
  • Develop a screening process for site selection and efficient scheduling
  • Work with project lead to evaluate and verify habitat areas
  • Assist program leads in tracking pollinator habitat resources across the project state
  • Manage time efficiently and work independently
  • Organize and manage travel within a set budget

Personal and Professional Qualifications
The State Coordinators should possess the following minimum qualifications:

  • Degree in natural resource management, biology, botany, ecology or related field
  • Experience in conservation partnerships, pollinator habitat restoration, volunteer management, and technical training development highly preferred
  • Excellent interpersonal skills
  • Strong planning and implementation skills
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills and ability to communicate directly with volunteers and landowners
  • Dependable, well-organized, and detail-oriented
  • Should be comfortable working outside, willing and able to work across various habitat settings
  • Computer literate (MS Office programs)
  • Occasional, multi-day travel may be required
  • Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
  • As a remote employee, individuals will need computer access and a work-space

About Pollinator Partnership
The Pollinator Partnership (P2) is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to protect and restore populations of pollinator species. As world’s largest organization devoted exclusively to the preservation of the birds, bees, butterflies, beetles, and bats, P2 plays a key role in preserving terrestrial ecosystems, promoting agricultural productivity, and enhancing local communities through pollinator-centered work. P2 has been actively supporting the conservation and protection of pollinators throughout North America since 1996. A multifaceted approach using original science; habitat preservation and creation; policy outreach; and public education has helped us achieve our goals in pollinator conservation. For more information, visit www.pollinator.org.

Location: Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin (one individual will be hired in each state).
Deadline to apply: January 31, 2019.
Schedule: This position is part-time and seasonal, with an average commitment of 25 hours per month. Work schedule is flexible.
Compensation: This is a contract position at $6,000 per year. Travel, lodging, mileage, and per diem expenses will be reimbursed, but are not to exceed a set amount.
Duration: This position will begin in February 2019 and continue through November 2020. A one-year contract may also be acceptable.
How to Apply: Interested candidates should email the following information to Amber Barnes at ab@pollinator.org:

  • Resume
  • Cover letter describing why you are a good fit for the position
  • Attach the resume and cover letter as 1 PDF
  • Please name the email subject and attached PDF “Project Wingspan STATE Coordinator – Last Name” (*Please indicate which state you are applying for).
  • An inability to following the instructions above will result in an automatically rejected application.

No phone calls please.

Research Associate in Spatial Analysis for Conservation Science

The Ecology Department at Montana State University is seeking a Research Associate to perform spatial analyses in support of ecological and conservation research applications within the Hansen Landscape Biodiversity Lab. This position provides technical support to the lab director in spatial analysis, statistical analysis, data management, communication and publication.

This position provides technical support to the lab director in spatial analysis, data management, communication and publication. Current studies focus on rates and drivers of climate and land use change, consequences for species, habitats, ecosystems and policy implications.

Duties and Responsibilities
Perform spatial and statistical analyses using Esri products, Google Earth Engine, R, and other software.
Contribute to the writing and preparation of scientific publications.
Manage, archive, and serve numerous large data sets.
Maintain the lab web pages.
Coordinate multidisciplinary research teams.
Prepare maps, graphics, resource briefs and other visuals for communication to diverse audiences.

Screening of applications will begin on December 23, 2018; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.  To Apply, see https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fjobs.montana.edu%2Fpostings%2F14463&data=02%7C01%7Cmiranda.l.davis%40uconn.edu%7C47e0178d610049d2558e08d65f65253d%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636801285365030415&sdata=9E%2FNEpzedDWDzTA2WhgQ9R7prlgVhDUPHHo2b8961c4%3D&reserved=0.

Amphibian Research Technicians Needed

USGS PATUXENT WILDLIFE RESEARCH CENTER (Turners Falls, MA & Laurel, MD)

The U.S. Geological Survey’s Amphibian Research and Monitoring Initiative in the northeast will be hiring 6-8 student contractor field research technicians in 2019. Technicians will be hired for both the spring & summer period (early March through July), with the possibility of extension for work during the fall field season (September through October).  Field work will be based out of separate duty stations located in Maryland and Massachusetts.  Massachusetts technicians will conduct amphibian surveys in protected areas in the Northeastern US, but primarily in MA, CT, ME, and VT.  Maryland technicians will conduct surveys primarily in MD, PA, VA, and the District of Columbia. The technicians will work as part of a team that surveys for amphibians within National Parks, Refuges, and Forests, including work in the mountains of Shenandoah National Park.  Surveys will include wetland-associated amphibians as well as stream salamander and terrestrial salamander populations. Field work involves identifying, catching, measuring, and marking amphibians, as well as collecting water quality and environmental data. The studen
ts will be required to conduct field surveys using techniques including visual encounter surveys, dip netting, stream transect searches, temporary removal sampling, and conducting a mark-recapture study using visual implant elastomer. All field work will be conducted as part of teams of 2-4 people, so a demonstrated ability and desire to work effectively with a group is imperative.

The position requires completion of academic coursework related to wildlife biology. Previous field experience with amphibians common in the Northeast US is preferred. The position requires the use of GPS units, digital cameras, and computer software for data entry and presentation (e.g. Microsoft Excel, Access). Technicians may also be asked to mark amphibians with injectable visible implant elastomer or passive integrated transponder tags and take voucher specimens related to amphibian disease studies. All work is outdoors, sometimes under harsh or hot conditions or in rain, sleet, hail and snow.

The technicians need to be in good physical condition, as the job requires long hours in the field (including some night-time surveys) and hiking with up to 45 pounds of equipment for extended periods of time on rocky, steep terrain. The technicians must be willing to go on overnight field trips to parks throughout the northeastern US, which will typically last 4-12 days at a time. Accommodations for overnight field work will be provided.

Technicians must be able to work at least 40 hours per week and have flexibility in their schedules to accommodate longer days when field conditions require. Technicians are responsible for all costs of transportation to and from the duty station.  Government vehicles will be provided for all field work initiated from the duty station. Housing costs are not included. Every attempt will be made to assist technicians in finding affordable housing in the area. Approximate wages are $15/hour; overtime pay is not provided.
Only applicants who are current or recent students (graduated within 12 months of the position’s end date) are eligible for these positions.

Principal Duty Stations:
USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center
SO Conte Anadromous Fish Research Lab
1 Migratory Way, Turners Falls, MA 01376

USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center
12100 Beech Forest Road
Laurel, Maryland 20708-4038

Applications will be reviewed as they are received. To apply, email the following to both Jill Fleming and Charlie Shafer (jefleming@usgs.gov, cshafer@usgs.gov) by no later than January 4th, 2019:

1) Letter of intent (please specify the time period in which you will be able to commit to this position and your duty station [MA or MD] preference)
2) Resume, including previous field experience, list of relevant course-work, contact information, and two or three reference contacts
3) One piece of evidence of current or recent (within past 12 months) enrollment in degree-seeking program (e.g., unofficial transcript, enrollment verification, a current registration card).  Candidates who graduated prior to July 2018 are ineligible (*unless they have proof of acceptance into a graduate program beginning the following fall*).

Evan H. Campbell Grant, PhD
NE Amphibian Research and Monitoring Initiative: USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center Conte Anadromous Fish Laboratory, 1 Migratory Way, Turners Falls MA 01376

Aquatic Biology Seasonal Technician II, southwestern GA

The Joseph W. Jones Ecological Research Center invites applications for a full time, temporary Seasonal Research Worker in the Aquatic Biology Lab. This is a temporary position that will be available January 14-May 10th with the possibility of renewal. The 28,000-acre Research Center is located approximately 30 miles south of Albany, Georgia. The Center’s research, education, and conservation programs focus on ecology and natural resource management. The site includes 16,000 acres of longleaf pine forests, over 1,000 acres of wetlands, and 26 miles of stream and river ecosystems. Job Requirements: The successful candidate will work with water quality studies of streams, lakes, and rivers. The candidate will assist with water quality collection, conducting population surveys of native mussels, fish, and exotic plants and animals as well as leaf litter breakdown. Other responsibilities will include sorting and identifying aquatic macroinvertebrates, data entry and processing water samples within an analytical laboratory. Experience in field biology/ecology required and must be able to swim and snorkel. Must have the ability to conduct moderate to strenuous physical activity in the field, under demanding field conditions (i.e. heat, high humidity, and insects) and independently follow instructions. Must be comfortable working from small research boats and canoes. Minimum qualifications: B.S. with experience in biology, ecology or related field.

 

Experience with MS- Windows based computers required. Must be able to swim and snorkel.

 

Salary: $11.00 per hour with housing $12.00 per hour without housing Limited on-site housing is available.

 

A letter of application, resume and references should be sent by email to: jobs@jonesctr.org Subject line: Aquatic Biology Seasonal Research. For additional information regarding this position contact Chelsea Smith by email at Chelsea.Smith@jonesctr.org. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. The Joseph W. Jones Ecological Research Center is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action E-Verify Employer.

MS Position in Agroecology at New Mexico State University

MS Position in Agroecology: Cover Crops in the Southwest: Obtaining Ecosystem Services While Minimizing Water Use New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM

Project Summary: The agroecosystem services provided by cover crops, including enhanced soil health, erosion prevention, carbon sequestration, nutrient provision and pest management, are widely recognized. Nonetheless, in arid environments the benefits received from cover crops must be balanced with their water consumption. Growers in the Southwestern USA desire the benefits of cover crops, but are concerned about the impacts of irrigation requirements on economic returns. Thus, we are conducting a study focusing on minimizing irrigation needs while still obtaining cover crop agroecosystem services. Using three cover crop species plus a three-way mixture under four irrigation regimes, we will assess impacts to a suite of characteristics including soil organic matter, aggregate stability, nutrient availability, and the rhizosphere microbiota including nematode, bacterial and fungal communities. Further, we will assess fungal disease, weed pressure and impacts to productivity and profits.

We are seeking an outstanding MS student to conduct research on the microbial component of this study: i.e., nematodes, bacteria and fungi. Research will be under the direction of Drs. Pietrasiak (Plant and Environmental Sciences, https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Faces.nmsu.edu%2Facademics%2Fpes%2F&data=02%7C01%7Cmiranda.l.davis%40uconn.edu%7Ce6fdcc48a56248351aa908d65f650873%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636801284868800938&sdata=BER%2Fkewpi0wpDYOU1R8PIotM4o1KOMQ4QPyZIGaNFoc%3D&reserved=0) and Lehnhoff and Sanogo (Department of Entomology, Plant Pathology & Weed Science,https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Feppws.nmsu&data=02%7C01%7Cmiranda.l.davis%40uconn.edu%7Ce6fdcc48a56248351aa908d65f650873%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636801284868800938&sdata=W0W5BWKlIe%2F4Z5jk0fVxfJsmx%2BPOdfjEsZssdNIRffs%3D&reserved=0. edu/). The successful candidate will associate with a diverse team of faculty within the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences to gain broad experience in soil science, plant pathology, soil microbiology and weed science.

Basic qualifications: Candidates should have: a BS degree (3.2 GPA minimum) in plant ecology, weed ecology, agroecology or agronomy, soil microbiology (or a closely related field); the ability to communicate effectively both in writing and orally; laboratory or field research experience; and a willingness to work in inclement weather including extreme heat.

Preferred qualifications: Ideal candidates will have: strong quantitative and statistical skills; and a demonstrated ability to perform independent field research.

The position will start in late spring 2019 (start date negotiable), and interested candidates should apply no later than January 31, 2019. To apply, submit (1) a cover letter describing experience and interests, (2) CV, (3) transcripts, (4) GRE and TOEFL (if required) scores, and (5) contact information for three professional references to: lehnhoff@nmsu.edu. Salary: $22,620.

For more information, interested candidates should call Dr. Erik Lehnhoff (575.646.2328).

Deadline approaching: INTERNSHIPS IN BOTANY & FOREST HEALTH-Long Island

INTERNSHIPS IN BOTANY & FOREST HEALTH ON LONG ISLAND

10-week undergraduate internships (June 3 to August 9) are available to study forest health and plant community ecology of the unique pine barrens ecosystem of Long Island in New York State. Interns will be based at Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) in Upton, NY, and they will have an opportunity to interact with researchers from BNL and State University of New York (SUNY-ESF) as they join research teams resurveying long-term Forest Health Monitoring plots established in 2005/2006 across Long Island. Interns will learn plant identification and field methods in monitoring forest vegetation and they will develop own research projects on various aspects of forest change (e.g., tree regeneration or mortality, understory plant communities) that will include data collection, data analysis, and reporting results. A weekly stipend ($500 per week) and an appropriate guidance and training will be provided. Free dormitory housing is available for students who live > 50 miles from BNL. Applications should be submitted soon (ideally by December 15, 2018) via Department of Energy website, to make sure that the hard target deadline (January 10, 2019) can be met by applicants’ reference letter writers. Additional information about the project, eligibility, and a link to an online application form are here: https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.esf.edu%2Fefb%2Fdovciak%2FPDFs%2FSULI%2520Flyer-Color-web.pdf&data=02%7C01%7Cmiranda.l.davis%40uconn.edu%7C5653aca601a3495392fe08d65f64fc94%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636801284671779278&sdata=mgdlK4jQAiJvEbLB9HKIsDJTk87im6kz%2FGPqVOClcmY%3D&reserved=0

Full-time Job: Environmental Scientist 1, Ohio DNR Old Woman Creek NERR

Environmental Specialist I

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) seeks an Environmental Specialist I to be located at Old Woman Creek National Estuarine Research Reserve (OWC-NERR) in Huron, Erie County, Ohio.  OWC-NERR is managed cooperatively between the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the ODNR Office of Coastal Management. Reserve activities are aimed at understanding and informing the conservation, management, and sustainability of Lake Erie’s coastal ecosystems and communities. The property is managed by the ODNR Department of Natural Areas and Preserves (DNAP) as a State Nature Preserve.

A description of the position is included below; For more information about specific responsibilities and qualifications and the application process, visit the State of Ohio website at: https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fcareers.ohio.gov%2F&data=02%7C01%7Cmiranda.l.davis%40uconn.edu%7Cb07f7ad294f945567c5a08d65f64f263%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636801284505381396&sdata=uT7YXnFbpg14XvPwuxDHM09yLYUHfnpw5%2FNu5YU%2FJDQ%3D&reserved=0. The position posting can be found at: https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Ftinyurl.com%2Fy72ymuo5&data=02%7C01%7Cmiranda.l.davis%40uconn.edu%7Cb07f7ad294f945567c5a08d65f64f263%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636801284505381396&sdata=hyJbxa1eEylInu%2B3KRaIEbxGNGhihZuYXxXzpt1ejds%3D&reserved=0. Applications are due Dec. 16, 2018.

Responsibilities and Duties
The incumbent works under the supervision of the Reserve Manager. The incumbent works closely with the Reserve Research Coordinator to implement a long-term estuary and watershed monitoring program, which includes meteorology, water quality and quantity, emergent and submerged aquatic vegetation, and target invertebrate and vertebrate communities. This will involve the development and maintenance of a vertical control network (i.e., survey level horizontal and vertical positions) of monitoring equipment and other locations within the Preserve. The incumbent also collaborates with DNAP staff to implement the reserve Stewardship Program, which includes surveying, mapping, and managing terrestrial and aquatic habitats and controlling invasive species.  Additionally, the incumbent will assist OWC-NERR and Office of Coastal Management staff responsible for education, training, outreach or other activities as needed.

Specific duties include:
Assist with field, laboratory, and computer work necessary to collect and analyze samples for monitoring water quality and quantity, meteorological conditions, and targeted biological communities (e.g., algae, zooplankton, fish);

Assist with field and laboratory work necessary to calibrate, maintain, and deploy equipment used for monitoring and transmitting water quality, water quantity, and meteorological data;

Assist with the development and implementation of the OWC NERR Stewardship Program, including habitat and vegetation monitoring and on-site stewardship and education actions;

Assist with surveying field and computer work necessary to establish and maintain a vertical control network;

Assist with data collection, management, analysis, mapping, and reporting;

Assist with maintaining facilities and purchasing supplies necessary to support OWC NERR research and stewardship activities; and

Attend and participate in meetings, technical workshops, seminars, conferences, and similar.

Required Qualifications
Three years training or experience OR completion of undergraduate core program in chemistry, biology, environmental science, or a related field.

Desired Qualifications/Special Knowledge and Skills Knowledge of and experience monitoring the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of estuarine and coastal ecosystems.
Knowledge of and experience conducting environmental stewardship of terrestrial and aquatic coastal habitats.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
Ability to use Microsoft Office products.
Operation and use of survey and advanced water quality and meteorological monitoring equipment.
Experience with the preparation and analysis of water quality samples (i.e., wet chemistry) following EPA and other national protocols.
Experience with or demonstrated ability to follow detailed and rigorous sampling protocols.
Experience with large data set management and quality assurance and control.

Inquiries can be directed to Debi Beck, P.E., Assistant Chief ODNR Office of Coastal Management and Acting Manager ODNR OWC-NERR at deborah.beck@dnr.state.oh.us

M.S. position in Biology at Arkansas State University

M.S. position in Biology at Arkansas State University – Factors for Bergmann’s rule in the context of climate change
Description:
The Rolland Lab is inviting applications for an MS student position to start in the fall semester of 2019 in the Biological Sciences program at Arkansas State University-Jonesboro campus. The student will be expected to develop their own thesis project with the overall goal of identifying patterns and factors of influence (e.g., food availability, life history traits) for Bergmann’s rule under climate change among avian species of North America. Long-term data will be central to this project but the use of natural history collections and/or the contribution to collections will also be encouraged.
The successful applicant will interact with the US Geological Survey Bird Banding Lab and the Institute for Bird Populations to obtain data, and may need to collaborate with museums. This position includes a teaching assistantship but funding is otherwise provided by the National Science Foundation through their Collections in Support of Biological Research and Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics programs. Therefore, suitable candidates must be US citizens, permanent residents, nationals, or refugees. Scholarship recipients must also demonstrate financial need through a FASFA form. Applicants who are first-generation college students or underrepresented minority students are highly encouraged to apply.

Qualifications:
Applicants must have a BS in ecology, conservation, evolution, or related field with ≥ 3.0 GPA. Applicants should also have a strong interest in natural history collections and biodiversity. Finally, applicants with experience in handling and measuring wild birds or with museum specimens will be given preference.

Application documents:
Please send the following documents to Dr. Rolland by January 15, 2019:
1)A cover letter describing your interests, career goals, relevant research experiences and skills.
2)Your curriculum Vitae (not a resume) with the contact information of at least three references
3)A copy of your academic transcripts
4)A copy of GRE scores
Contact:
Dr. Virginie Rolland
vrolland@astate.edu
870-972-3194

For more information:
•MS Biological Sciences program: https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.astate.edu%2Finfo%2Facademics%2Fdegrees%2Fdegree-details.dot%3Fmid%3D3ee79ec1-24ed-48f8-9c73-7bea39c83b77&data=02%7C01%7Cmiranda.l.davis%40uconn.edu%7Cefd9a345d2e24746f1b608d65f64d86e%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636801284068687901&sdata=BuOw00FfdVFLAoQQleotgn9A94hrsoPbXG4A9wqODkk%3D&reserved=0
•Scholarship program: https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.astate.edu%2Fa%2Fbiodiversityscholar%2F&data=02%7C01%7Cmiranda.l.davis%40uconn.edu%7Cefd9a345d2e24746f1b608d65f64d86e%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636801284068844137&sdata=m1VRcus99Yr2jqQzUiE7mex3Q10FIVJTzJuFD258m%2BM%3D&reserved=0
•Rolland lab: https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=www.virginierolland.wixsite.com%2Frollandlab&data=02%7C01%7Cmiranda.l.davis%40uconn.edu%7Cefd9a345d2e24746f1b608d65f64d86e%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636801284068844137&sdata=dtsX0Plb6CkSciqtEmnhHR6AgQgpxxKkpMB9NXoxT2c%3D&reserved=0

Wyoming toad PhD assistantship – deadline extended (Dec. 12)

PhD Graduate Assistantship available to work with Dr. Melanie Murphy (Department of Ecosystem Science and Management/Program in Ecology), Dr. Annika Walters (Department of Zoology and Physiology/Program in Ecology) and Dr. Anna Chalfoun (Department of Zoology and Physiology/Program in Ecology) at University of Wyoming in collaboration with Dr. Doug Keinath (Wyoming Ecological Services, USFWS).

The Wyoming toad (Anaxyrus baxteri) is one of the most endangered amphibians in North America, which rapidly declined in the 1970s due to unknown causes. This narrow-range endemic was listed under the ESA in 1984 and is now considered extinct in the wild. In the early 1990s, managers collected the remaining individuals to establish a captive breeding program. A small population at Mortenson Lake National Wildlife Refuge sustained by captive-release is now one of the only known, non-captive populations of Wyoming toads. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recently improved captive facilities to allow regular release of adult Wyoming toads into the wild in order to foster increased reproduction and survival. This resulted in notable increases in reproduction, as evidenced by regular wild breeding, but changes in survival are questionable because the released animals are being observed less frequently than expected. Since all released toads are uniquely identified, tracking these animals offers a unique opportunity to collect longitudinal information on: 1) individual survival, 2) individual behavior and habitat selection, 3) individual health status (e.g., Chytrid fungus (Bd) infection rate), and 4) how survival, behavior and health status relate to genotype.
Prospective students with a background in wildlife, natural resources, ecology, and/or population genetics are encouraged to apply. Evidence of robust analytical skills, ability to work independently under stochastic field conditions, strong work ethic, scientific writing, passion for scientific inquiry, and aptitude for collaborative research are expected.  Additional skills in radio-tracking anuran species and population genetics laboratory skills (particularly using low quality/low quantity DNA) will be preferred.  Work will require animal care, hiking, working in harsh field conditions at high elevation, working in wetlands and driving a 4WD vehicle.  To apply, please send a statement of interest, complete CV, unofficial transcripts, unofficial GRE scores, and contact information for three professional references as a single PDF file (LastName_WyomingToad.pdf) to melanie.murphy@uwyo.edu.   Application deadline is December 12, 2018, although review of applicants will begin immediately.  Start date could be as early as January 28, 2019, but is flexible for the right candidate.  However, candidate must be available for field season preparations with field season to start mid-May.

Area and Institution: University of Wyoming (https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=www.uwyo.edu&data=02%7C01%7Cmiranda.l.davis%40uconn.edu%7Cec056b07929d4319d77408d65f64ca77%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636801283837127151&sdata=W%2F8bTb%2BxnPFe0e4EohhzRhPE3HyhvHgW%2F%2BS7qt%2Fvgdc%3D&reserved=0) is ideally located in Laramie, Wyoming with easy access to varied field sites and outdoor recreation opportunities. In addition, the campus is only 1 hour from Fort Collins and ~2 hours from an international airport (Denver, CO).  Applicants are encouraged to investigate the Program in Ecology (https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=www.uwyo.edu%2Fpie&data=02%7C01%7Cmiranda.l.davis%40uconn.edu%7Cec056b07929d4319d77408d65f64ca77%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636801283837127151&sdata=ghE1sPaD4MJUDiw%2BD7uyyFlPXuoU89mrkIsZ%2Bc%2F9omI%3D&reserved=0), an integrated, interdepartmental PhD program in ecological science.

Desert Tortoise Telemetry Monitors Needed

Subject: Desert Tortoise Telemetry Monitors Needed

Description:
The Mojave desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) is federally listed as a threatened species north and west of the Colorado River under the Endangered Species Act.  Desert tortoise monitoring will assist researchers in estimating population density.   Monitoring occurs during March, April and May to coincide with the peak activity season of desert tortoises.

Three (3) AmeriCorps telemetry monitors will be required to demonstrate proficiency in telemetry and tracking as well as backcountry wilderness field skills, including but not limited to 4WD vehicle operation, and use of GPS, topographic maps, and PDA technology.  In addition, telemetry monitors will be field tested on their knowledge of and ability to follow monitoring protocols thoroughly and precisely. Telemetry monitors will have the sole responsibility of gathering daily location data on focal desert tortoises that serve as controls for the project.  The telemetry monitor will work for 5 consecutive days with 2 days off, but they must be available to work any of the 7 days each week, with the understanding that the schedule is subject change with little or no notice. Spike camping in the field will be required.  This position will require long hours including early mornings and may include weekends.

Compensation:
$6,480.00 Living Allowance
$1,566.14 Education Award
Field Per Diem
Student loan forbearance/interest accrual

Contract & Timeline:
March 5, 2019 – May 24, 2019
Full-time, minimum 40 hours per week
Weekend hours may be required
during field season

Location: Clark County, NV (Las Vegas)

Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in biology (wildlife or conservation), ecology or related field; Experience with telemetry equipment and tracking; Experience collecting field data or following established field data collection protocols; Experience using hand-held GPS equipment for navigation and/or data collection; Knowledge of southwestern/Mojave flora and fauna desirable; Self-motivated with ability to maintain a positive attitude while working in a diverse team environment; Ability to work a variable schedule (including weekends) that may change with little or no notice; Ability to walk a minimum of 10km/day in challenging terrain and harsh and rapidly changing desert conditions, and otherwise be in good physical condition; Willingness to camp in the desert backcountry for consecutive days; Possess a valid, clean, state-issued driver’s license; Ability to operate a 4WD vehicle on- or off-road if required; 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 the equivalent of two full-time education awards), and (3) pass National Sex Offender Public Website (NSOPW) and federal criminal background checks, (4) Adhere to the rules, regulations and code of conduct as specified in the Member Service Agreement; and (5) Will not engage in any prohibited activities as listed in the Member Service Agreement.

How to Apply:
Qualified and interested applicants should follow this link to apply directly through our online portal:
https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fcrcareers.thegreatbasininstitute.org%2Fcareers%2Fcareers.aspx%3Frf%3DPD%26req%3D2018-ACI-053&data=02%7C01%7Cmiranda.l.davis%40uconn.edu%7C0ea128ab501a4394eb7108d65c3a17f2%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636797801920498806&sdata=Tw9jNtDXcdpEIqynY8eyuWYws7JAtmKD%2BiZCerqdQHg%3D&reserved=0

We conform to all the laws, statutes, and regulations concerning equal employment opportunities and affirmative action. We strongly encourage women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply to all of our job openings. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, age, disability status, Genetic Information & Testing, Family & Medical Leave, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We prohibit Retaliation against individuals who bring forth any complaint, orally or in writing, to the employer or the government, or against any individuals who assist or participate in the investigation of any complaint or otherwise oppose discrimination.