Month: July 2020

Job Opportunity to Coordinate WikiProject L&O Education Project

Wikipedia pages are often the first resource that people turn to for finding information. However, Wikipedia articles related to aquatic science topics are difficult to read, poorly organized, or missing information. The primary mission of WikiProject Limnology and Oceanography (WP L&O; https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fen.wikipedia.org%2Fwiki%2FWikipedia%3AWikiProject_Limnology_and_Oceanography&data=02%7C01%7Cmadeline.hennessey%40uconn.edu%7Cd9fe283e27c24359233308d824b1a345%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C637299692897322649&sdata=rmJMlyaR%2BDox1L1ZHlbJ62Arm1MiY8PdjHiaGQ5pt2g%3D&reserved=0) is to recruit and train a diverse set of editors to contribute open-access aquatic information to Wikipedia. Our WikiMedia-funded pilot program (https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmeta.wikimedia.org%2Fwiki%2FGrants%3AProject%2FWikiProject_Limnology_and_Oceanography%2Frecruiting_aquatic_editors&data=02%7C01%7Cmadeline.hennessey%40uconn.edu%7Cd9fe283e27c24359233308d824b1a345%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C637299692897322649&sdata=sinHJeWYNyKCBvl6esQOJWWaHXhplrWmrv97mX57ua8%3D&reserved=0) will foster a natural synergy among scientists, educators, and motivated learners that will increase quality aquatic-related information on Wikipedia.

The pilot program is designed to train students to distill primary resources and add aquatic-related content to Wikipedia, an exercise that will improve writing skills and enhance engagement with classroom subject matter. The program will function similarly to a scientific journal, where a subject matter editor (coordinator) finds reviewers (professional aquatic scientists from WP L&O) to help improve content that was contributed by the authors (students participating in our pilot program). We aim to pilot this in 20 undergraduate classrooms.

Want to get involved?

As project coordinator, YOU can help fill this important knowledge gap! We are seeking a graduate student or postdoc in the aquatic sciences who will act as project coordinator. The classroom coordinator will ideally have experience in more than one aquatic discipline and would be comfortable recruiting experts to serve as reviewers. The workload will be roughly 5-10 hrs per week for 20-40 weeks, and the coordinator will be compensated at $30 / hr. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working remotely and will be able to begin work in July, 2020. We expect all coordinator work to be complete by June, 2021.

Expectations of the coordinator:

– Be comfortable working independently and communicating with diverse audiences

– Recruit additional instructors to pilot the program in their classroom in late 2020 and early 2021.  the upcoming fall and/or spring semesters

– Collaborate with WP L&O project team to create instructional materials and Wikipedia editing lesson plan(s)

– Facilitate communication and sharing of ideas and challenges among instructors, students, reviewers, and the WP L&O team

– Organize and participate in regular group meetings throughout the academic year

– Identify and assign WP L&O articles needing improvement

– Match student articles with expert aquatic scientists from WP L&O

– Use and expand their professional network to recruit aquatic scientists to WP L&O as editors or reviewers

To get more information or apply:

– Please email Dr. Jake Zwart (jayzlimno@gmail.com)

– To apply, please send an email to jayzlimno@gmail.com, with the subject heading Ãf¢ÒÂEURÃ’ÂoeApplication for Wikimedia grant CoordinatorÃf¢ÒÂEURҝ, and attach a document summarizing your interests and qualifications for this project (1 page maximum), plus attach a resume/CV.  If you are a student, please also send a letter from your advisor confirming support for this role.

Soil Microbiology Technician at University of Florida Southwest FL Research and Education Center

Position: Biological Scientist I for the Soil Microbiology Lab at the UF-IFAS Southwest Florida Research and Education Center

Job No. 514177

Work type: Staff Full-time, permanent position

Description: Conducts research to support the Soil Microbiology program at the Southwest Florida Research and Education Center in Immokalee, FL. The incumbent will assist in one or more phases of the research process by performing a variety of technical duties in the laboratory, greenhouse, and field. Duties will include but are not limited to:

  *   Preparing, maintaining and monitoring experimental trials in the laboratory, greenhouse, and field; collecting, processing, storing and maintaining soil samples from field, greenhouse, and laboratory experiments.

  *   Conducting various standard and specialized microbiology and molecular biology laboratory procedures such as DNA/RNA extraction/purification/quantification, gel electrophoresis, PCR and quantitative PCR, cloning, culturing; maintaining specialized scientific- or other equipment in and outside the laboratory; preparing microbiological media and chemical solutions; maintaining written and digital laboratory notebooks, maintaining laboratory in a way that work can be accomplished safely and efficiently.

  *   Recording, analyzing and summarizing data and preparing graphs and tables using standard or specialized software.

  *   Assisting in the preparation of written reports and publications and reviewing literature pertinent to the research area as deemed appropriate by the P.I.

  *   Assisting with any related duties required, including purchases of supplies and services, as determined by the P.I.

Advertised Salary: 36,000 âÂEUR” 40,000 annually; commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Minimum requirements: Bachelor’s degree in biology or a closely related life science field.

Preferred qualifications:

  *        Knowledge of the terminology, principles and techniques used in biological research.

  *        Knowledge of basic principles of microbiology and/or soil sciences.

  *        Knowledge of agricultural production systems such as citrus and vegetables.

  *        Knowledge of standard laboratory practices.

  *        Skill in various standard laboratory procedures such as pipetting, DNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, bacterial/fungal culturing, maintaining detailed records from experiments.

  *        Skill in various specialized laboratory practices such as quantitative PCR, next generation sequencing.

  *        Ability to process large numbers of samples in an adequate time frame.

  *        Ability to use computer programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and statistical analysis software such as R.

  *        Knowledge of principles of statistics and experimental design.

  *        Ability to plan and coordinate research assignments effectively.

  *        Ability to adhere to safe laboratory and other practices.

  *        Ability to work independently.

  *        Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.

  *        Ability to establish an effective working relationship with others.

  *        Ability to follow rules and regulations.

Additional characteristics of the position:

  *   Working under harsh conditions (such as high heat and humidity) outdoors or in a greenhouse for prolonged periods of time.

  *   Standing, walking or bending for extended periods of time

  *   Lifting moderately heavy objects for short periods of time.

  *   Occasional travel to field sites distant from the research station.

Special instructions to applicants:

Must apply through the UF website:

https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fexplore.jobs.ufl.edu%2Fen-us%2Fjob%2F514177%2Fbiological-scientist-i&data=02%7C01%7Cmadeline.hennessey%40uconn.edu%7C0f9da8971e694801124908d8231f77e2%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C637297965385853485&sdata=xCTfsAqcEgcCQhaZHUG7ftyC6FaTM%2B4z0hpmJnWfpvw%3D&reserved=0

Apply soon! Applications close July 14, 2020

Questions – please contact:

Sarah Strauss, PhD

Assistant Professor, Soil Microbiology

University of Florida – IFAS

Soil and Water Sciences Department

Southwest Florida Research & Education Center

Immokalee, FL 34142

239-658-3468 (office)

239-658-3447 (lab)

strauss@ufl.edu

@SoilMicroSarah

Fall AmeriCorps Positions Available in Northern Nevada

Positions Available: 300-hour (2-month) term between September 8 and November 5, 2020, 900-hour (6-month) term between September 8, 2020 to March 11, 2021, 1200-hour (9-month) term between September 8, 2020 to May 6, 2021.

BACKGROUND: Established in 2014, the Walker Basin Conservancy (WBC) is leading the effort to restore and maintain Walker Lake while protecting agricultural, environmental and recreational interests in the Walker Basin (https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.walkerbasin.org%2F&data=02%7C01%7Cmadeline.hennessey%40uconn.edu%7C947eedb3b62e4ca27a8708d823e88e5b%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C637298829177526119&sdata=22R1myqMpKhVGzbvYc0SQ1TPv3jrMb5Lbs0WJIEw7Z8%3D&reserved=0). The growing and dynamic nature of the WBC and its diverse obligations provide unique opportunities to develop operations from the ground level up, working closely with staff who are passionate about their mission.

The WBC currently manages thousands of acres of land and assets on multiple properties in the Walker Basin, including the Walker River State Recreation Area (parks.nv.gov/parks/walker-river).  Land planning activities are underway and focus on assessing public use opportunities, conservation values, long term land ownership and stewardship, and revegetation and restoration activities.

JOB PURPOSE: The Restoration Team Members will serve alongside other AmeriCorps members and WBC Conservation Technicians conducting primarily invasive species removal and native plant re-vegetation within the Walker River Basin. Members may also work on recreational trail construction, sign installation, and fence construction. Members will work in conjunction with other WBC field staff, providing on the ground support to larger project operations.

A working knowledge of, or a desire to learn more about, desert plant ecology and ecological restoration, nursery or horticultural practices, or agricultural systems and irrigation equipment is essential. The Restoration Team Members should also have a sincere interest in expanding their knowledge of Great Basin Desert ecology, restoration practices, the flora and fauna of Nevada, and agricultural methods and equipment.

LOCATION: Yerington, Nevada is a beautiful rural farming community located approximately 95 miles south of Reno, NV in the foothills of the eastern Sierra mountains. Yerington is small but growing with about 3,100 residents. Established in 1907, the city has heritage and deep roots in agriculture, mining, railroads, and gaming. Some of the nearby attractions, activities and recreational opportunities include:

Camping, biking, hiking, backpacking and paddling Fishing, hunting, boating and OHV trails Flat and white-water boating (1 hour away) Rock hounding and climbing Ghost Town Exploration Ski Resorts (1.5-2 hours away) Lake Tahoe (1.5 hours away) Lahontan Reservoir (30 minutes away) Walker Lake (45 minutes away) Topaz Reservoir (45 minutes away) Yosemite (via Tioga pass, 2.5 hours away) Essential Functions

Under the guidance of a WBC Technician:

Utilizing hand tools and backpack sprayers to conduct invasive plant removal and control.

Utilizing hand and power tools to conduct native plant re-vegetation and restoration.

Utilizing hand and power tools to conduct road decommissioning, recreation trail construction, and sign/fence installation.

Installing, maintaining, and operating a variety of irrigation systems for re-vegetation purposes.

Identify and harvest native plant seeds for use in native plant propagation and re-vegetation.

Communicating effectively and professionally with other members, WBC staff, agency partners, and the public.

Secondary Functions:

Assisting with the management and supervision of community volunteers on WBC conservation projects.

Assisting with the inventory, maintenance, and repair of WBC tools and equipment.

Qualifications

Seasonal positions are open to entry level candidates, no previous conservation experience is required.

Willingness and ability to:

Work outside in unpredictable weather conditions, including extreme temperatures, independently or as part of a team.

Work irregular hours, such as starting early or working more days with shorter hours, in accordance with project specific requirements and conditions.

Bend and crouch for long periods of time and occasionally lift heavy loads or equipment.

The ability to hike to remote locations over uneven ground, tall shrubs, and wetlands.

Use hand and power tools, operate motor vehicles, and work long days on labor intensive projects.

Use chemical herbicides in the treatment and control of invasive weeds while following strict application protocols.

Effective written and oral communication skills.

Meet AmeriCorps Eligibility Requirements, including:

Be at least 17 years of age at the commencement of service; Have a high school diploma or its equivalent; Be a citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States; Pass a National Sex Offender Public Website check and National Service Criminal History Check; and Be eligible to receive and AmeriCorps Education award, with a limit of four total terms in a lifetime and the equivalent of two full-time terms (3400 hours).

Member Training: Members will receive a variety of technical and professional training related to their service activities as well as personal and professional development. Available trainings may include:

First aid and CPR;

Leave no Trace principals;

Native plant identification and revegetation; Invasive species identification and treatment; Irrigation system installation and maintenance; Recreational trail construction; Resume building, USA Jobs, and government application workshop; and Guest speakers on environmental, natural resource, and professional development topics.

Physical and Mental Requirements

Strength, dexterity, coordination, and vision to use tools and equipment for prolonged periods.  Strength and stamina to bend, stoop, sit, and stand for long periods of time.  Strength and dexterity to operate small, medium, and heavy equipment.  Strength and stamina to endure standing and working for long periods of time and in extreme weather conditions.  Strength and stamina to walk to remote locations over uneven ground.  Dexterity and vision to observe oncoming traffic hazards and react quickly to emergency situations.  Some heavy lifting (over 75 pounds) is occasionally required.

In compliance with applicable disability laws, reasonable accommodations may be provided to qualified individuals with a disability who require and request such accommodations.  Applicants and incumbents are encouraged to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

Working Conditions

Members work in an outdoor setting with varying weather conditions, including, but not limited to, extreme heat, dry conditions, rain, snow or hail, and extreme cold.  Members may sometimes be required to camp in the field for the duration of the tour. Camping and worksites will generally be in areas with at least primitive road access for crew vehicles, but the spike camping sites will usually be at undeveloped backcountry sites. Both camp and project sites will generally not have access to potable water, restroom facilities, or cellphone signals, and members will be expected to follow Leave No Trace principals in camp and on project. Project work will frequently require hiking over rough terrain while carrying tools and equipment.

Position may occasionally be required to work around heavy machinery in hazardous environments. Environment is generally dirty, with prolonged exposure to conditions such as dust, fumes, noise, or odors. Frequent interruptions to planned work activities occur.

COVID-19 Pandemic Response

Walker Basin Conservancy has been fortunate to maintain some level of operations through the pandemic. We have multiple levels of strict policies and procedures for safe field operations based on Federal and State guidance which can change on short notice. We make every effort to keep applicants informed about our policies and the current hiring situation, but please be aware that the situation is fluid and any offers are contingent on conditions remaining stable or improving. Should COVID-19 infections worsen or government reinstate restrictions, we may be forced to rescind offers in response. Once members have joined the organization, we have contingency and response plans to handle increases in restriction to ensure you are able to complete service safely.

Compensation & Benefits:

300-hour: Living allowance of $3,060 and Education award of $1,311.11; 900-hour: Living allowance of $9,180 and Education award of $3,097.50; 1200-hour: Living allowance of $11,900 and Education award of $4,336.50; Federal student loan forbearance is available for eligible members; Uniform reimbursement; Per diem when on spike (while camping); Paid personal and sick leave; Paid holidays; Opportunities for extension upon good service; and Opportunities for advancement within the organization.

Housing in Yerington can be difficult to find. WBC has limited and optional housing available for a low monthly rate. Housing accommodations are dorm or bunk style housing with shared bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen areas and common spaces. During the COVID Pandemic, WBC housing may be more limited than usual. Depending on current conditions in Nevada and Governor mandates we may have to limit or restrict access to group housing for the safety of employees. We have alternate policies and procedures in place for members who are living in their own housing to allow for continued participation even I f we are not able to offer housing. We will discuss options and the current situation during the interview process, but please know that WBC housing may not be readily available.

HOW TO APPLY

Positions will remain open until filled. Only top candidates will be contacted.

Local applicants are STRONGLY encouraged to apply.

To Apply, please send cover letter and resume to:

Amy Gladding

amy.gladding@walkerbasin.org

Subject Line: 2-Month, 6-Month or 9-Month Restoration Team Member

All applicants must also submit an Employment Application Acknowledgement form that can be found on our website at: https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walkerbasin.org%2Fjoin-our-team&data=02%7C01%7Cmadeline.hennessey%40uconn.edu%7C947eedb3b62e4ca27a8708d823e88e5b%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C637298829177526119&sdata=MNpdNe0IPSswcBMn4jArtUoXER4VUsjiwtxe47s0oi4%3D&reserved=0

Please call or email Miguel Gonzales, AmeriCorps Program Manager, at (775) 463-9887 ext. 110 or Miguel.Gonzales@WalkerBasin.org with questions.

Walker Basin Conservancy is an equal opportunity employer. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.  The above functions may be completed with or without reasonable accommodations.  This program prohibits discrimination based on race, religion, creed, color, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, political affiliation or disability.

Equal Opportunity Statement – Walker Basin Conservancy is an equal opportunity employer. WBC does not discriminate against any employee, applicant, director, officer, contractor, or any other person with whom it deals because of race, creed, color, disability, age, sex, veteran status, religion or political affiliation. WBC complies with all federal and local statutes prohibiting discrimination in employment.

Reasonable accommodations may be provided for qualified individuals with a disability.

Disclaimer – The statements contained herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work to be performed by the employees in these positions. The statements are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of a person in each position. Other responsibilities, duties, and skills may be assigned and management retains the right to add or change the responsibilities, duties, and skills at any time.

Wildlife Technician opening with Ya Ha Tinda Research Project, Canada

Wildlife Technician: Ya Ha Tinda Research Project- AB, Canada

Employer: University of Montana & University of Alberta

Location: Ya Ha Tinda Ranch, Clearwater County, AB Canada Job Category: Wildlife Technician (4-month appointment with possible extension)

Salary:  $15-19/hour (Canadian), depending on experience Start Date: 08/01/2020 (may be flexible) Last date to Apply: 07/17/2020

 

Background:

The Ya Ha Tinda Long-Term Elk Monitoring Project is a collaborative research effort between the University of Montana, University of Alberta, Parks Canada, and Alberta Environment and Parks. This project is the longest running elk research project in North America with over 19 years of data on elk movement, migration, and reproduction. The main goal of the project is to monitor adult elk survival and cause-specific mortality, reproduction, and migration to understand differences in fitness between migratory and resident elk. In 2018, the Ya Ha Tinda Elk Project expanded its research to include male elk and for the next year will continue monitoring male elk survival, migration, and habitat selection. For more information about the research project visit our website umt.edu/yahatinda.

 

We are looking for an experienced wildlife technician to lead field operations and data collection at the field site starting August 1, 2020 (preferred). The position will be a 4-month appointment with the potential to extend into 2021. The applicant will be expected to work fully independently at a remote field station in inclement weather conditions while maintaining a positive working relationship with Parks Canada staff. Applicant must have a strong work ethic and be self-motivated to accomplish tasks with little to no direct supervision. Must be able to speak professionally with members of the public including recreationists and hunters. The technician is expected to be familiar with and adhere to Covid-10 precautions as well as other project safety protocols. At this time due to pandemic-related travel restrictions, we can only hire Canadian Citizens.

 

Duties:

The Wildlife Technician will monitor adult elk survival using VHF telemetry and GPS webservices and conduct herd observations to monitor cow:calf ratios and cow-calf resight to monitor the reproductive success of collared females. Additionally, the technician will investigate elk mortalities, conduct vegetation sampling, and conduct backcountry trips to collect data on migratory elk within Banff National Park. The technician will potentially participate in winter elk captures. The technician will be in charge of data entry, sample management, and data analysis, and may be asked to assist with reporting to agencies and publishing research findings.

 

Qualifications:

Due to pandemic-related travel restrictions, applicant must be a Canadian Citizen.

 

Education/Field Experience: Applicants should have an undergraduate or graduate degree directly related to wildlife biology and related field experience.

 

Related Work Skills: Preference will be given to applicants with experience conducting backcountry trips, vegetation surveys, using radio-telemetry to locate animals, investigating mortality sites, and hiking / camping in grizzly bear country. Horseback riding and packing experience is desirable. Must have strong attention to detail and ability to work independently in remote locations without cell service. All applicants must have a current, valid Canadian driverÃf¢ÒÂEURÃ’Â(tm)s license.

 

Physical Requirements:  Applicants must be in good physical shape and able to hike long distances in mountainous terrain, have the mental and physical strength to hike and camp in the backcountry for multiple days, and manage transport of field equipment into remote areas.

 

To Apply:

Your application should include the following, and be saved as a single pdf named Ãf¢ÒÂEURÃ’ÂoeYourLastname _Technician.pdfÃf¢ÒÂEURҝ:

1)      Cover letter indicating how you meet the project expectations

2)      Resume/CV

3)      Contact information for three professional references

 

Please email your job application and/or any questions you may have regarding the position to:

 

Tara Meyer

Wildlife Biology Program

WA Franke College of Forestry & Conservation University of Montana tara.meyer@umontana.edu