Month: May 2019

PhD Assistantship – Biodiversity and eDNA, University of Wyoming

Graduate Assistantship available to work with  Melanie Murphy (Department of Ecosystem Science and Management/Program in Ecology)  at University of Wyoming in collaboration The Nature Conservancy (Craig Leisher, Tim Boucher and Jeffrey Evans).

The PhD student will develop new methods for using environmental DNA (eDNA) for holistic biodiversity assessment.  Study areas include Northern Rocky Mountains, Gabon and potentially Baja Sur, Mexico.  Using paired eDNA and bioacoustics sampling, we will ask the questions including: 1) Are relatively intact areas more biodiverse than fragmented landscapes? and 2) is presence of rare species of conservation concern a reliable index of biodiversity?

Prospective students with a background in ecology, wildlife, and/or population genetics are encouraged to apply.  Evidence of robust analytical skills, ability to work independently under challenging field conditions, strong work ethic, quality scientific writing, passion for scientific inquiry, and aptitude for collaborative research are expected.  Previous experience in bioinformatics, population genetics laboratory skills (particularly using low quality/low quantity DNA), and spatial analysis are desirable but not required.  Data collection efforts will require working in remote field conditions, international travel, working in rivers/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_Biodiversity.pdf) tomelanie.murphy@uwyo.edu.   Application deadline is June 4, 2019, although review of applicants is currently on-going. First-received applicants will have priority.  Start date is late August 2019 (start of fall semester).

Area and Institution: University of Wyoming (https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=www.uwyo.edu&data=02%7C01%7Ceric.schultz%40uconn.edu%7C70388b0ad19846e4eefb08d6e029313c%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636942864886080073&sdata=dkBwV1o5U6kvpv19eLFuoI9Meibbd5kjrWJmHgjhHKc%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://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=www.uwyo.edu%2Fpie&data=02%7C01%7Ceric.schultz%40uconn.edu%7C70388b0ad19846e4eefb08d6e029313c%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636942864886080073&sdata=tD4zdMhZ79oavbD%2BGbYQrY%2FYrvKktpA0%2Budh4V6cBfQ%3D&reserved=0), an integrated, interdepartmental PhD program in ecological science.

Support for this graduate position may be through either a Women in Graduate Education Graduate or Underrepresented Domestic Minority Assistantship.  The University of Wyoming Women in Graduate Education Graduate Assistantships (WGE) are competitive awards intended to increase access and opportunities for U.S. domestic women in graduate degree programs where they are underrepresented. The WGE awards are funded through a partnership of the Office of Graduate Education and the faculty mentor(s) of the prospective student.  The University of Wyoming Under-represented Domestic Minority (URDM) assistantships are intended to increase access and opportunities to graduate education for U.S. students from under-represented/ under-served communities and to increase student diversity in our graduate degree programs on a competitive basis. Statement of interest should address if applicant would qualify for URDM.  The URDM awards are funded through a partnership of the Office of Academic Affairs and the faculty mentor(s) of the prospective student. The University of Wyoming is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law and University policy. Please see https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=www.uwyo.edu%2Fdiversity%2Ffairness&data=02%7C01%7Ceric.schultz%40uconn.edu%7C70388b0ad19846e4eefb08d6e029313c%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636942864886090071&sdata=Mbc2B6jrMEQW5yJ%2BzWVQUg7G7frltKA8gUUO7wwGjeo%3D&reserved=0

Amphibian ecology/evolution Lab Manager/Tech position

The Richards-Zawacki Lab (https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.rzlab.pitt.edu%2F&data=02%7C01%7Ceric.schultz%40uconn.edu%7C70388b0ad19846e4eefb08d6e029313c%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636942864886080073&sdata=1LKz3%2Bje03uUuOYXBs68VikR7nKf8JtlLlSi5GxONKA%3D&reserved=0) in the University of Pittsburgh Dietrich School of Arts & Sciences is seeking a Laboratory Technician/Manager that will manage the maintenance of laboratory equipment, purchase supplies, and supervise animal (amphibian) care and undergraduate lab assistants. Depending upon experience, the incumbent may also be responsible for generating and analyzing molecular data for ongoing projects on the topics of amphibian ecology, evolution, and conservation, and providing technical assistance to other personnel involved in these projects who are using similar techniques.

Management experience and excellent communications skills, as well as experience with basic molecular and microbiology techniques, are preferred. The incumbent will train new personnel who are recruited to the project and supervise the efforts of undergraduates. This includes regular meetings with personnel and supervision of notebook keeping. The incumbent will report to the primary investigator and work in collaboration with the primary investigator to manage laboratory activities.

The Dietrich School of Arts & Sciences is committed to building a culturally diverse staff.

Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of individuals and constituencies in support of a diverse community.

Please see the full position posting for more information and to submit an application:

https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcfopitt.taleo.net%2Fcareersection%2Fpitt_staff_external%2Fjobdetail.ftl%3Fjob%3D19004271%26tz%3DGMT-04%253A00%26tzname%3DAmerica%252FNew_York&data=02%7C01%7Ceric.schultz%40uconn.edu%7C70388b0ad19846e4eefb08d6e029313c%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636942864886080073&sdata=fmjzUextaggAbvIBtWIXx5FD3Fp1f%2BDHts%2FS%2BdFKUZs%3D&reserved=0

For questions about the position, please contact Corinne Richards-Zawacki (clz17@pitt.edu)

TECHNICIAN in FRESHWATER ECOLOGY/LIMNOLOGY

“The Jefferson Project” is hiring a technician to conduct research in freshwater ecology and limnology. Research topics include invasive species, salinization, eutrophication, algal blooms, and global warming. The technician will assist in lake and stream surveys to assess water quality and biota, including surveys of fish, macro-invertebrates, zooplankton, macrophytes, and algae. The position will also involve working with a highly advanced “smart-sensor” network.

The Jefferson Project is an unprecedented research endeavor devised to study freshwater ecosystems by using “smart-sensor” technologies, leading-edge experiments, and advanced coupled computer models of the weather, runoff, lake circulation, and food webs.  It is a collaboration between Rensselaer, IBM, and the FUND for Lake George. The Jefferson Project is serving as a global model for understanding and protecting freshwater ecosystems.

Our technicians collaborate with Rensselaer researchers, including experts in Ecology, Evolution, Limnology, Engineering, Big Data, Computer Science, Cognitive Science (AI), and the Arts. They also collaborate with researchers from the FUND for Lake George and IBM, including experts in Meteorology, Hydrology, Cyber-infrastructure, and Data Visualization. Collectively, The Jefferson Project team of researchers focuses on moving from science to solutions, as we build the future of freshwater protection.

Applicants should send (in pdf format) a cover letter, CV, and a list of 3 references to Rick Relyea (relyer@rpi.edu). Applications will be reviewed as they arrive. The desired start date is July 2019.

Northern Colorado Plant Ecology and/or Population Genetics MS and PhD positions

We seek two highly motivated student looking to pursue a MS or PhD degree with a focus on plant ecology (Dr. Scott Franklin) and/or population genetics (Dr. Mit McGlaughlin). Current studies include restoration of sagebrush, examining both the genetics and ecology, conservation genetics of rare species, ecology of clonal plants (e.g., aspen), disturbance ecology, and plant classification. To find out more about our current and past research, visit our lab web pages (Dr. Franklin =https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.unco.edu%2Fnhs%2Fbiology%2Fabout-us%2Ffranklin-scott%2Flab%2F&data=02%7C01%7Ceric.schultz%40uconn.edu%7Cbdd3fed9a47d4008577d08d6ddcd0bea%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636940270096904720&sdata=kPT9SNyxMXcNP51O6dwI1OFKxgq1MB%2Fz5u03Ib%2FMV0g%3D&reserved=0; Dr. McGlaughlin = https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.unco.edu%2Fnhs%2Fbiology%2Fabout-us%2Fmcglaughlin-mitchell%2Flab-home.aspx&data=02%7C01%7Ceric.schultz%40uconn.edu%7Cbdd3fed9a47d4008577d08d6ddcd0bea%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636940270096904720&sdata=TnEmAu422x55lsw6V5KXZXIobFin4%2B4sqSbMtEbu0ik%3D&reserved=0).

The University of Northern Colorado was founded in 1889 and tucked between the Rocky Mountains and Colorado’s stunning high plains, UNC is a public doctoral research university committed to the success of its ~12,862 students, with more than 100 undergraduate programs and 120 graduate programs. The university’s just-right size, expert faculty, and tradition of research and hands-on learning gives students exceptional opportunities and a personalized education. If you are interested, contact either Dr. Franklin (scott.franklin@unco.edu) or Dr. McGlaughlin (Mitchell.McGlaughlin@unco.edu).

‘Ecological Monitoring Technician’ Position Available

Gila Watershed Partnership of Arizona (GWP) is looking for a new Ecological Monitoring Technician. This role provides field and project administration support for GWP restoration staff. This position is responsible for management of habitat monitoring activities and some coordination of seasonal crews under the direction of the Habitat Restoration Manager.

Duties & Responsibilities:

 Assist Habitat Restoration Manager with planning and implementation of

restoration projects

 Conduct vegetation monitoring surveys and additional restoration monitoring

activities on regular basis

 Conduct removal of invasive plant species by chemical and mechanical means

 Conduct restoration planting and seeding

 Maintain and monitor piezometers to determine depth to groundwater

 Conduct photo point data collection

 Use GIS, GPS, and tablets to maintain records

 Assist with water quality monitoring

 Assist in managing seasonal youth corps projects

 Maintain field supply inventory

 Assist in plant propagation and other native plant nursery work when needed

 Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

 Associates Degree in Biology, Natural Resources, or related field is required;

enrolled in or completed a Bachelor’s Degree is preferable; or equivalent

experience

 Experience with scientific data collection in a field setting

 Strong interpersonal and communication skills and an ability to interact with a

wide variety of stakeholders are required

 General computer skills are required, including competence with Microsoft

Office and the Google Suite

 Willingness to work in a variety of conditions, including running water, high heat,

uneven ground, and dense vegetation

 Willingness to coordinate and supervise seasonal employees in a dynamic field

situation

 Ability to manage time effectively and communicate issues promptly

 A valid state driver’s license is required

 Ability to pass a basic security clearance is required

 GPS, GIS, and database management skills are highly desirable

 One to two years of natural resources field experience is preferable

 Ability to operate independently under challenging situations is highly desirable

 Experience driving trailers and using 4-wheel drive is highly desirable

Work Environment:

 Moderate to high physical effort

 Willing to work occasional weekends and holidays as needed

 Assignments involve substantial outdoor work and seasonally extreme

temperatures

 Safe use of hand tools, herbicide application equipment, power tools, and

occasional heavy machinery

Compensation:

$12-$14/hour, depending on experience, plus holiday, vacation, and sick time. Health

insurance is available. This position offers a broad variety of different experiences with a

fun, dynamic team.

Location:

The Gila Watershed Partnership offices are located in Safford, Arizona, a small, friendly

city on the edge of the Sonoran Desert and nestled in the shadow of Mount Graham.

Safford and the Gila Valley offer numerous outdoor recreation opportunities, natural hot

springs, vibrant local festivals, and a reasonable cost of living.

To apply, please send cover letter, resume, and three references in a single PDF to

Bethany Drahota, Habitat Restoration Manager, at bethany@gwpaz.org by May 24,

2019.

1 FIELD RESEARCH ASSISTANT NEEDED FOR FOREST POLLINATOR GENETICS PROJECTS

FIELD RESEARCH ASSISTANT NEEDED FOR FOREST POLLINATOR GENETICS PROJECTS led by Dr. Jim Rivers (https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fpeople.forestry.oregonstate.edu%2Fjim-rivers%2F&data=02%7C01%7Ceric.schultz%40uconn.edu%7Cb5bcd9f188044f0fb11b08d6daa85c48%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636936813992379810&sdata=ARPvkhkncxGzD9jgc3zTjS2X3ILicJYjyFBUjLkRz1s%3D&reserved=0), Dr. Sara Galbraith (Post-doctoral researcher), and Rachel Zitomer (MSc. Candidate) in the College of Forestry at Oregon State University.

The objective of this research is to assess how behavior, population dynamics, and health of two native bee species are affected by management activities and stand/landscape characteristics in managed forests using cutting-edge genetic techniques, including DNA capture-recapture and DNA metabarcoding. Research assistants will work with both commercially reared and wild bee species throughout the season. Duties will consist of:

* collecting wild pollinators using a variety of techniques (netting, traps, non-lethal tissue samples)

* quantifying floral resources

* measuring plant community, environmental, and management-related variables

* monitoring solitary bees in artificial nests

* extracting pollen samples from nests and specimens

* conducting pollination experiments

* processing specimens in the lab

* entering data

Field work will take place in the rugged and scenic Coast Range of western Oregon and will involve physically demanding work in challenging conditions (heat, cold, rain, sun, steep slopes, loose rock, logging slash, stinging insects, hazardous plants), working long days (up to 12 hours), including some weekends, driving on logging roads, and navigating through difficult forest terrain.

Position will run approximately June 3-September 1, 2019; there is potential for some flexibility on start and end dates. Pay rate is $500-550/week for research assistants. Project-related transportation is provided.

Qualifications: Applicants should have a B.S. degree in entomology, animal ecology, botany, or a related field and at least 2 years of field experience (2 season-long field positions=2 years of experience). Preference will be given to candidates who are proficient with insect collection and identification, have previous experience with ecological field work, especially in challenging terrain, and/or are familiar with Oregon flora. Successful applicants will:

* be self-motivated, with a strong work ethic

* be able to carry heavy gear (30+ lbs) on steep slopes

* be able to harmoniously work and problem-solve as part of a team

* have a valid driver’s license and clean driving record

* be able to maintain a positive disposition under challenging field conditions

* have a proven track record working safely, efficiently, and cooperative manner in a team setting

To apply: Applicants should create a single PDF containing (1) a cover letter addressing the candidate’s qualifications as they relate to the specific duties described in the position description; (2) a full-length CV or resume; and (3) the names and contact information (email, telephone) of three references. This document should be emailed to Rachel Zitomer at oregonbeecrew[at]gmail[dot]com with “Pollinator Genetics Crew 2019” in the subject line. We will review applications as they are received and earlier applicants may receive more consideration.

PAID field botany positions based in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

The Chicago Botanic Garden seeks to fill 3 seasonal (5-month) field technician positions to conduct native seed collections as part of the national Seeds of Success Program in partnership with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. These positions would begin as soon as possible, going into June.

Technicians will support SOS native seed collection operations as part of a 3-person collection team. The team (1 lead, 2 team members) will spend approximately 90% of their time in the field scouting, planning, and conducting seed collections as part of the national Seeds of Success Program.

Payment

Lead Field Technicians will be paid $840/week, Field Technicians will be paid $612/week. Housing is not provided.

To Apply:

Interested individuals should contact Dr. Joanne Crawford, Manager of Conservation Land Management Training Programs at JCrawford@chicagobotanicgarden.org   for more information about applying. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until all positions have been filled.

Primary Responsibilities

• Identify potential SOS collection locations and scouting for new potential collection sites; work with BLM to develop a SOS collection plan

• As part of a team, carry out seed collections and package and ship seeds back to partners, keeping detailed records of all collections and shipments

• Ensure quality, accuracy, and timeliness of seed collections and data provided by the collection crew. Lead team to make 30 SOS native seed collections using the BLM SOS protocol https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=www.blm.gov%2FSOS&data=02%7C01%7Ceric.schultz%40uconn.edu%7Cb5bcd9f188044f0fb11b08d6daa85c48%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636936813992369808&sdata=P%2B4MWnLa%2F7a42V0zdEh5c%2ByXbKqATHXckJIfCUeRcpc%3D&reserved=0

• Timely, accurate reporting of time and effort activities, adherence to all Chicago Botanic Garden policies and procedures for employees and communication with the Chicago Botanic Garden’s manager of Conservation Science Training Programs

Qualifications

Our ideal candidate will have the following:

• B.S. in Botany, Plant Science, Ecology, Environmental Science or a related field

• Strong plant identification skills (to species) and knowledge of plant taxonomy; strong knowledge of plant biology. Familiarity with plants and ecosystems of the western U.S.

• Experience conducting field work related to plant research, identification, restoration, and/or seed collection (through SOS programs or other seed handling/collecting work)

• Experience maintaining accurate and detailed data records (in field and in electronic databases such as Excel/Access)

• Capable of conducting daily field work in rough terrain in harsh environmental conditions (heat, rain, biting insects), and motivating a field crew through those tough conditions

• Experience driving large field vehicles with 4-wheel drive; driving on gravel and dirt roads; off-road driving

• Experience hiking and backcountry camping, and the willingness to do so for this position

• Experience working with agency, academic, private, or non-profit partners to coordinate, plan, and execute fieldwork on public or private lands

• Familiarity with ArcGIS to display maps, visualize georeferenced data, and interface with GPS units

• Wilderness First Aid or other field safety training

Physical Demands

Data collection often occurs in remote locations, where cellular connection is unavailable or inconsistent. Field conditions can be extreme: hot summer conditions with potential for heavy rainfall, flash floods, and lightning strikes; high altitude sun exposure; and occasional wildlife encounters (rattlesnakes, bears, and scorpions). Seed collection and vegetation monitoring activities can be physically demanding due to stooping and bending for long periods of time. Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and hike up to 6 miles per day is expected. Fieldwork will require overnight travel and will involve overnight camping in remote areas. Safety is a pre-requisite, particularly where industry development (energy extraction, e.g. Natural gas) is occurring and during hunting season, and will guide how fieldwork is conducted.

Eel PhD-student wanted!

Please see below – rare opportunity for PhD student to study eels; fully funded for four years. Although it is in Sweden they will consider non-Swedish-speaking candidates.

Hey fishy experts!

 

We are looking for a driven and sharp candidate for our first PhD-student working on European eel conservation! It’s also available on Facebook.

 

http://www.nrrv.se/2019/05/phd-position-resolving-production-bottlenecks-european-eel/

 

Now hiring: PAID field botany internship in Nevada

Late-breaking PAID field botany internships available with the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest (HTNF), in cooperation with USFS Intermountain Region, and the Chicago Botanic Garden. We are recruiting two (2) Native Seed Interns to collect seed and conduct field surveys throughout the state of Nevada and parts of Eastern California.

If interested, please email Joanne Crawford at jcrawford@chicagobotanic.org or Chris Woolridge at cwoolridge@chicagobotanic.org. To apply, please visit the Conservation and Land Management Internship program website at:https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.clminternship.org&data=02%7C01%7Ceric.schultz%40uconn.edu%7Cce4e26ce0a3a4f6c5c2d08d6d9def0f2%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636935948894347629&sdata=VjwB4pbVnp2biSs6oCJ7gmf%2FoAMDGxvSFk%2FsMsLtNxA%3D&reserved=0.

Primary responsibilities include:

• Scouting and identifying populations of target native plant species suitable for the program;

• Monitoring and maintenance of reciprocal transplant study plots;

• GPS mapping populations of plants, disturbance areas, and other features;

• Monitoring the phenology of plant populations to identify optimal seed collection times;

• Collecting seed from plant populations and completing data forms in accordance with the Seeds of Success (SOS) Technical Protocol;

• Taking herbarium vouchers, and processing and shipping seed as necessary.

• Recording data electronically and on paper data forms, entering and editing data related to restoration activities;

• Reporting accomplishments and providing recommendations for program improvements, priorities, and future projects.

Fisheries Tech – NE Oregon – July to October

We are seeking a fisheries technician to assist in a project evaluating juvenile Chinook Salmon size, growth rates, and survival throughout two NE Oregon basins. The technician will be hired through the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission and will be working on a three person crew led by a postdoc from Oregon State University. The project will be based in La Grande, Oregon from mid-July to early/mid October. Free housing is provided.

Please apply using the following link: https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.critfc.org%2Fblog%2Fjobs%2Ffishery-technician-ii-6%2F&data=02%7C01%7Ceric.schultz%40uconn.edu%7Cce4e26ce0a3a4f6c5c2d08d6d9def0f2%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636935948894347629&sdata=TLHEo5MCW8aNOa22caQ1G9m%2Bqs39CcyyMdaXOVa0Q4s%3D&reserved=0

Closing date is May 22nd.