M.S. MARINE CONSERVATION ECOLOGY

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Hello All,
The Quantitative Marine Conservation Ecology (QMCE) lab, run by Dr. Susan Piacenza, at University of West Florida is currently recruiting 1-2 enthusiastic and motivated M.S. graduate students to begin in Fall 2018. Students are expected to develop independent projects in applied marine ecology that complement work in the lab.  Ongoing projects include both theoretical and empirical work on sea turtle population dynamics and recovery, monitoring and population assessment, and analyzing the drivers of high biomass in rocky reef fish. Potential projects include modelling sea turtle population dynamics and monitoring to improve the accuracy of population assessments, extending an agent-based model of sea turtles to be spatially explicit (and could be applied to test questions about sea turtle ecology and climate change), and assessing how highly fecund individuals contribute to population recovery under varying conditions. In addition, the lab is currently setting up pilot studies for the use of stereo-video cameras to measure juvenile sea turtles and fishes on natural and artificial reefs in the northern Gulf of Mexico. We are also interested in the ecological interactions of man-made reefs and reef fish abundance and diversity.
 
Competitive applicants should have a strong interest in quantitative marine conservation ecology (i.e. like math and statistics), and a passion to positively influence science and marine conservation. Students are expected to obtain quantitative skills, fluency in scientific communication, and learn some programming. Students with previous experience in math, statistics, engineering, or computer science are especially encouraged to apply. Applicants with experience in SCUBA-based research (AAUS, or equivalent) are preferred (especially for field based projects), but not required.
 
More details about work in the QMCE lab can be found here: www.susanpiacenza.com. Details on the graduate program of the Biology Department at UWF can be found athttp://uwf.edu/cse/departments/biology/graduate-programs/ms-biology/. For preferred consideration (and access to graduate assistantships), graduate applications are due February 15, 2018. Prospective students should include a statement of research interests in the email text, a CV that includes GPA, GRE scores, and list of references to Susan Piacenza (spiacenza@uwf.edu).
UWF is an equal opportunity employer and underrepresented and minority groups are encouraged to apply.

PhD Position Available in Plant-Microbial Interactions

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A PhD position is available in the lab of Dr. Edward Brzostek
(http://biology.wvu.edu/faculty/faculty-pages/edward-brzostek) in the Department of Biology at West Virginia University starting in the summer/fall of 2018.  This PhD opportunity will focus on developing predictive models of the extent to which plant-microbial interactions impact the production and sustainability of bioenergy crops.  The PhD student will work in conjunction with a multidisciplinary team of scientists as part of the Sustainability Theme in the new U.S. Department of Energy-funded Bioenergy Research Center (BRC), the Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation (CABBI; https://cabbi.bio).  Prospective applicants with backgrounds and interests in agricultural ecology, microbial ecology and biogeochemistry are encouraged to apply.  As part of the CABBI award to WVU, there is competitive fellowship support for qualified applicants to this position.  More detailed information about the WVU Biology graduate student program is available at https://biology.wvu.edu/students/graduate-students.  The deadline for applications is January 1st, 2018. Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to contact Edward Brzostek (erbrzostek@mail.wvu.edu) prior to submitting an application to WVU.

M.S. and Ph.D. student positions in Marine Invertebrate Behavior, Ecophysiology, and Fisheries

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M.S. and Ph.D. STUDENT POSITIONS
Marine Invertebrate Behavior, Ecophysiology, and Fisheries Division of Coastal Sciences, The University of Southern Mississippi Ocean Springs, MS

We seek highly motivated students to fill two graduate student positions in the laboratory of Dr. Zachary Darnell at The University of Southern Mississippi’s Gulf Coast Research Laboratory in Ocean Springs, MS. Both positions will begin in August 2018. Students selected for these positions will pursue graduate degrees in the Division of Coastal Sciences and will be supported on research assistantships (details below). Both the M.S. and Ph.D. assistantship will include substantial flexibility in research topic, within the general realms of marine invertebrate behavior, ecophysiology, and fisheries. For more information on current research areas, visit http://sites.usm.edu/zdarnell/. Details on each assistantship are below:

M.S. ASSISTANTSHIP: The M.S. assistantship includes a stipend of $22,800 per year, increasing to $23,400 per year following comprehensive exams. A tuition waiver is also included. Required qualifications include a minimum GPA of 3.5 on all undergraduate coursework and GRE scores exceeding the 50th percentile. Prior research experience is preferred.

Ph.D. ASSISTANTSHIP: The Ph.D. assistantship includes a stipend of $23,400 per year, increasing to $24,000 per year following comprehensive exams. A tuition waiver is also included. Required qualifications include a minimum GPA of 3.5 on all undergraduate or graduate (if entering with a M.S.) coursework and GRE scores exceeding the 50th percentile. Prior research experience is preferred. Priority will be given to applicants with an M.S. degree, but exceptional applicants at the B.S. level will also be considered.

The Division of Coastal Sciences is a research and graduate education unit within the School of Ocean Science and Technology, offering programs leading to the Doctor of Philosophy and Master of Science degrees. The Division is located at Gulf Coast Research Laboratory (Ocean Springs, MS), a marine laboratory featuring comprehensive basic and applied research programs in coastal and marine biological sciences (http://gcrl.usm.edu). Research program support includes state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and instrumentation; a fleet of small and large research vessels, including the R/V Point Sur; the GCRL Museum collection; the Center for Fisheries Research and Development; NSF I/UCRC Science Center for Marine Fisheries, and aquaculture facilities including the Thad Cochran Marine Aquaculture Center. Additional information on graduate programs in the Division of Coastal Sciences can be found here:
http://gcrl.usm.edu/coastal_sciences/index.php.

Interested students should contact Dr. Zachary Darnell (zachary.darnell@usm.edu). Please include a copy of your CV (including GRE scores), unofficial undergraduate and graduate transcripts, and contact information for three professional references. Review of applicants will begin immediately. For full consideration, submit all materials prior to January 2, 2018.

Job opening: Research Technician, Gulf Coast Research Lab, The University of Southern Mississippi

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JOB OPENING
Research Technician
Gulf Coast Research Lab
The University of Southern Mississippi
Ocean Springs, MS

We seek a Research Technician to begin employment February 1, 2018 at The University of Southern Mississippi’s Gulf Coast Research Laboratory (http://gcrl.usm.edu) in Ocean Springs. MS. The selected applicant will be co-supervised by Dr. Kelly M. Darnell and Dr. Zachary Darnell.

The primary duties of the Research Technician will be associated with a recently funded project “Gulf- Wide Assessment of Habitat Use and Habitat-Specific Production Estimates of Nekton in Turtlegrass.” The overarching goal of this project is to conduct a management-driven, Gulf of Mexico-wide assessment of the use of turtlegrass as habitat by nekton and to evaluate the support provided to blue crabs, a commercially valuable species, using habitat-specific production estimates. This is a collaborative project with researchers at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, the University of Florida, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The technician will work closely with personnel from these institutions.

Job duties include (but are not limited to): conducting epibenthic sled and trawl sampling of nekton in seagrass beds; preparation and setup of field experiments to assess blue crab growth and mortality; fish and macroinvertebrate identification; laboratory processing of vegetation, nekton, and benthic core samples; data entry and QA/QC; assisting with data analyses, assisting with manuscript preparation and outreach efforts; and operating small boats in support of field research efforts.

Required qualifications:
-B.S. or M.S. degree in marine biology, ecology, biology, or a related field -Previous research experience -Valid driver’s license

Preferred qualifications:
-Experience working in seagrass beds
-Experience with juvenile and adult fish identification -Experience with GIS -Ability to operate small, outboard-powered boats

This position includes a salary of $30,000 per year and full benefits. The term of the position is 28 months (February 1, 2018-May 31, 2020), with the possibility for extension beyond this term if additional funding is available.

To apply, please send a cover letter, CV, and list of three references to kelly.darnell@usm.edu. Review of applications will begin on December 1, 2017 and continue until the position is filled.

M.S. Assistantship: conservation genomics of freshwater mussels

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A Masters assistantship is available in the Department of Biology at Georgia Southern University (GSU), with an intended start date in August 2018.  The student will be expected to play a pivotal role and develop a thesis project on the conservation genomics of North American unionid mussels.  Briefly, this project (funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, and GSU) will develop high-throughput genomic resources (development of single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) loci and genomic assays) to characterize the genomic diversity of imperiled mussel species in North Carolina. 
 
The successful applicant will become enrolled in the Master’s of Biology program at GSU and complete course work and an M.S. thesis, leading to an M.S. degree in Biology. The assistantship includes a tuition waiver and stipend for two years, to be funded through a combination of teaching and research duties. The student also will assist in the field and lab activities of other members of the Cox (http://www.coxevolab.org/) and Roberts labs (http://www.southernfisheries.org).  More information about the graduate program can be found at the Biology department’s web page (http://cosm.georgiasouthern.edu/biology/graduate-program-2/). GSU is a 27,000-student comprehensive research university located in one of the most biodiverse regions of the southeastern U.S. (http://www.georgiasouthern.edu/).
 
Required qualifications include (1) a B.S. degree in Biology, Zoology, Fisheries, Ecology and Evolution, Genetics, or a related field, (2) excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills, and (3) strong self-motivation and ability to work well independently and with a team. Preferred qualifications include (1) previous experience with laboratory research in genetics, (2) strong analytical skills, including statistics and bioinformatics, and (3) demonstrated scientific writing ability, such as authorship of a scientific publication, report, or senior thesis. 
 
To apply, email the following as a single pdf file: (1) statement of research background and interests, (2) curriculum vitae or resume, (3) names and contact information for three academic or professional references, (4) GRE scores, and (5) an unofficial copy of your college transcript. Review of applications will begin on 15 December 2017 and continue until the position is filled. Inquiries can be addressed to either Dr. Jamie Roberts (email: jhroberts@georgiasouthern.edu) or Dr. Christian Cox (email: clcox@georgiasouthern.edu).

Funded PhD Position in Human-Environment Systems at Boise State

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The Hillis lab is currently recruiting a motivated PhD student to the Ecology, Evolution and Behavior program at Boise State University. Our lab uses quantitative and computational methods to better understand the role of social dynamics in the sustainability of human-environment systems. Specific potential project topics include:
  • Social-ecological network analysis of conservation behavior among landowners in the western US.
  • Examining the co-evolution of environmental governance and environmental change using agent-based models.
  • Understanding how environmental attitudes develop over the life course using social network analysis of peer groups at different ages.
  • Assessing the efficacy of network governance of water resources in the Snake River Plain.
The PhD student will join our Human-Environment Systems community, a group of faculty and students committed to transdiciplinary, team-based, actionable research that addresses real-world environmental challenges.

Qualifications
We are seeking students who have expertise in social-ecological network analysis, agent-based modeling, Bayesian hierarchical modeling, or other quantitative or computational approaches to examining human-environment systems. Competitive students will have a Master’s degree and research or job experience related to the topics above.

Stipend and tuition and fees
This position includes support in the form of a graduate assistantships (renewable, 12-month at $25,000), tuition and fee waiver, and health insurance. The positions start Fall (Aug) 2018.

About the program and Boise
The Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior PhD is a new graduate program at Boise State University. This program brings together faculty from multiple academic departments including biological sciences, geosciences, anthropology, and human-environment systems to offer relevant courses and provide unique mentorship and training opportunities. Further, we have created a network of valuable connections in academia, local relationships with federal and state agencies, nonprofits and NGOs, as well as partnerships with international organizations all dedicated to providing students with transformative research and educational experiences for diverse career opportunities. To learn more, please view the EEB webpage

Students in this program enjoy living in the beautiful city of Boise, which strikes a perfect balance with close-by outdoor recreational activities as well as a vibrant downtown life. Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and the capital of the State of Idaho, Boise is frequently featured as a top-ranked
metropolis. The city has ample opportunities for world-class outdoor activities year round and a thriving arts and entertainment culture. In 2017, US News and World report ranked Boise the 12th best city to live in the United States. To learn more, please view “Visit Boise”

To Apply
Please send via email in a single file attachment (include your last name in the file name): a cover letter that states qualifications and career goals, a CV with the names and contacts for 3 references, copies of transcripts (unofficial are O.K.) and GRE scores and percentiles (not combined) to Dr. Vicken Hillis (email: vickenhillis_at_boisestate.edu). Please put “PhD application” in the subject line. Applications will be reviewed as they are received until December 15, 2017. If you do not have GRE scores by the deadline your application cannot be considered. Top candidates will be asked to formally apply to Boise State’s EEB program by January 20, 2018. All admission decisions must be approved by the Graduate Dean. 

​Boise State University embraces and welcomes diversity in its faculty, student body, and staff. Accordingly, applicants who would add to the diversity and excellence of our academic community are encouraged to apply.

Ph.D. Assistantship- climate change and annual cycles of migratory birds, Boise State University, Idaho

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Subject: Ph.D. Assistantship- climate change and annual cycles of migratory birds, Boise State University, Idaho
 
GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIP (Ph.D. in Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior) – at Boise State University. A position is available for a motivated Ph.D. student to study the genetic mechanisms underlying migration behavior and seasonal timing in American kestrels.  American kestrels are an exciting model species for this work because they exhibit different migratory strategies and there is evidence that the timing of kestrel breeding and migration has shifted in parts of their range.  This work is part of a large, collaborative project aimed at 1) collecting empirical data on kestrel behavior and genetic samples across their range, throughout the year, and 2) developing models that incorporate inter-seasonal effects on individual behavior to predict population responses to environmental change.  The PhD project will address questions about environment/genetic associations, genotype-phenotype relationships, and adaptive capacity of wild bird populations to respond to climate change.  Also, the Ph.D. student will work with our team to develop innovative approaches for integrating genetic information into individual-based simulation models.  This project provides opportunities to collaborate with a diverse team of faculty (Boise State, UCLA, UCSC, St. Mary’s University), NGO scientists (the Peregrine Fund, HawkWatch International), land managers, students, and technicians.  The student will have the opportunity to travel for field/lab work or specialized training with collaborators.    
 
We are seeking someone with 1) some quantitative and computational training, 2) problem solving skills, 3) an enthusiasm for studying evolution/ecology, and 4) ability to work independently and as part of a team. Master’s degree with relevant experience is preferred, but not necessary.  Please address your qualification for each of these points in your cover letter. The position starts Fall (Aug) 2018.
 
Stipend and tuition and fees
This position includes support in the form of a graduate assistantships (renewable, 12-month at $25,000), tuition and fee waiver, and health insurance.
 
About the program and Boise
The Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior PhD is a new and modern graduate program at Boise State University. This program brings together faculty from across multiple academic departments including biological sciences, geosciences, anthropology, and the human-environment systems group to offer relevant courses and provide unique mentorship and training opportunities.  To learn more, please visit:http://eeb.boisestate.edu/.  Boise State University embraces and welcomes diversity in its faculty, student body, and staff. Accordingly, applicants who would add to the diversity and excellence of our academic community are encouraged to apply.
 
Students in this program enjoy living in the beautiful city of Boise, which strikes a balance with close-by outdoor recreational activities as well as a vibrant downtown life. Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and the capital of the State of Idaho, Boise is frequently featured as a top-ranked metropolis. In 2017, US News and World report ranked Boise the 12th best city to live in the United States.
 
To Apply
Please send via email in a single file attachment (include your last name in the file name): a cover letter that states qualifications and career goals, a CV with the names and contacts for 3 references, copies of transcripts (unofficial are O.K.) and GRE scores and percentiles (not combined) to Julie Heath (email: julieheath@boisestate.edu). Please put “PhD application” in the subject line. Applications will be reviewed as they are received until 10 December. If you do not have GRE scores by the deadline your application cannot be considered.  Top candidates will be asked to formally apply to Boise State’s EEB program by January 20.  All admission decisions must be approved by the Graduate Dean.
 

Seasonal botany position at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

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Subject: Seasonal botany position at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Location: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (stationed in Empire,
Michigan)

Duration: May 30 – August 29, 2018 (dates are firm)

Pay: $20.00-$21.00/hour

Description and Duties: The incumbent will be employed by Northland College, but will work directly with, and report to, the Great Lakes Network of the National Park Service Inventory & Monitoring (I&M) program.
The goals of the I&M program include monitoring key environmental variables so that ecological change can be detected and addressed in a timely manner.

This is largely a field-based position. The incumbent will assist with the establishment and sampling of permanent forest monitoring plots at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.
The incumbent will collect extensive data on the herbaceous layer and browse. He/she will be expected to identify 350 herbaceous species, and have considerable experience identifying members of the family Poaceae and genus Carex. Field work will be performed in teams of 2-3 people. The incumbent may also spend approximately 5-10% of time performing computer work.

This position operates on an 8 day on/6 day off schedule. During the 8-day sampling periods, incumbent will be expected to carry field equipment weighing up to 50 lbs. He/she will be exposed to high temperatures, stinging and biting insects, including extensive mosquitos and ticks, and poisonous plants.

The incumbent is responsible for securing and paying for his/her own housing in the Empire, Michigan area.

To Apply: Please send a resume, cover letter, references, and unofficial transcripts to Suzanne Sanders (suzanne_sanders@nps.gov) by January 15, 2018. If you are selected for an interview, you will be contacted shortly thereafter. No phone calls or emails, other than applications, please.