Clemson-USDA National Needs PhD Fellowship

Clemson University is proud to invite applications for PhD fellowships in “Computationally Intensive Genomics Analysis and Application in Agriculture”

For more information, please visit the following website:

[http://www.clemsonnationalneedsfellows.org%3chttp:/www.clemsonnationalneedsfellows]www.clemsonnationalneedsfellows.org<http://www.clemsonnationalneedsfellows.org>

Greenhouse Research Technician, WI

Prescribed fire effects on seedbanks of pine barrens

Department of Forestry, Michigan State University

and USDA Forest Service Northern Research Station

Position description: The Department of Forestry at Michigan State University, in collaboration with USDA Forest Service Northern Research Station, is seeking a highly motivated seasonal research technician for Summer 2017 to assist with a project investigating soil heating processes and the effects of soil heating on soil carbon, nutrients, seedbanks and hardwood regeneration in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. The technician will be primarily responsible for maintaining the field-collected soil samples in a seed bank germination greenhouse study near Rhinelander, WI, U.S.A. The technician will have opportunity to also participate in field activities. The technician will be co-supervised by a Project Manager and Research Scientist.  The technician will be trained on the job and responsible for following safety and study protocols. In addition, opportunity exists for technician to pursue mentored independent research related to the overall project goals. The abstract for the project is available here: http://www.firescience.gov/JFSP_advanced_search_results_detail.cfm?jdbid=3D%24%26J3%3CW%40%2 0%20%0A

Qualifications: The successful applicants will have the following knowledge, skills and abilities: 1) previous greenhouse experience as a technician; 2) strong organization and communication skills; 3) demonstrated ability to work well independently and in a team environment; 4) demonstrated commitment to completing work with a high level of initiative, skill and professionalism; 5) a high aptitude for adverse environmental conditions; and 6) possession of a valid US driver’s license. We desire the technician to have experience in plant identification in the upper Lake States region, specifically northern dry forests and pine barrens.

Working conditions: This position will be largely greenhouse-based. In the greenhouse, the technician is responsible for providing own gear, including supportive, closed-toe shoes, to accommodate long periods of standing and the warm, humid conditions of a greenhouse.  For occasional field work, the conditions may include exposure to inclement weather, full sun, biting insects, and poison ivy and walking over uneven terrain; lifting and carrying field packs weighing up to 40 lb.; bending, squatting, kneeling, sitting or standing for prolonged periods of time; operating measurement or sampling equipment with a strong level of fine motor skills; and performing repetitive tasks with a high level of precision and accuracy. Personal protective equipment necessary for performing the position will be provided. The technician will be responsible for providing their own personal field gear (appropriate field clothing, footwear, daypack, etc.).

Salary: Hourly wage commensurate with experience, for 40 hours/week starting approximately June 5, 2017 and continuing for approximately 4.5 months. We may be able to accommodate earlier or later start & end dates with advance notification (please specify any start/end date requests in your cover letter).

Location: The position is located near Rhinelander, WI. Occasional overnight travel may be required to perform field measurements in Ashland, WI.

Housing: Housing is not provided.  Reasonable dormitory accommodations are available at a University of Wisconsin field station 20 minutes north of the office location.

To Apply: Applicants should email as a single PDF: 1) a letter of interest detailing your qualifications for the position and the dates of your availability, 2) resume/CV with list of relevant coursework, and 3) a list of three professional references with contact information (institution, email address, phone number), to Dr. Christel Kern at cckern@fs.fed.us<mailto:cckern@fs.fed.us> . Please name your file as: LastnameFirstname_Application_YYYYMMDD.

Application deadline: Applications will be considered on a rolling basis beginning February 15, 2017 so you are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

For more information: Contact Dr. Christel Kern at cckern@fs.fed.us or Dr. Jessica Miesel at mieselje@msu.edu.

Undergraduate Research Assistant: Forest Restoration and Fire Management

An undergraduate research assistant position is available in the Quantitative Forest Management laboratory in the Division of Forestry and Natural Resources at West Virginia University.

The undergraduate research assistant will assist a master=92s student with completing field work for a forest restoration project. The field work will be conducted in the mixed conifer forests of the Sierra Nevada in Northern California, with majority of time spent in the Eldorado National Forest. The main objective of the project is to evaluate post fire restoration efforts made after the 2004 Power Fire. This project will help identify successful restoration techniques to reestablish open, old growth conditions in the Sierra Nevada.

Field Work responsibilities will include collecting forest inventory data, soil samples, vegetation surveys, basic ecophysiological data, and micro-environmental variables. A variety of equipment will be used including, basic field work items (clinometer, d-tape, etc.) and potentially more advanced machines (ceptometer, gas exchange analyzer, etc.). Experience with more advanced equipment is appreciated, but not necessary.

This position will be for about a 3-month period during the summer from May 2017 to August 2017. Work will average 40 hrs/week. The salary offered will depend on prior experience. Travel to California, along with housing and a small food stipend will be provided.

Qualifications: All junior or senior students currently enrolled in an academic program related to forestry, biology, ecology, environmental sciences, or similarly related natural resource fields are encouraged to apply. Applicants should be highly self-motivated and possess a strong work ethic. A background or strong interest in conducting field-based research is desirable. A cumulative GPA greater than 3.0 in undergraduate coursework is preferable. Candidates must be willing and able to travel long distances, camp outdoors on occasion, do physically demanding work, and work in hot or otherwise uncomfortable conditions. Applicants must possess a valid driver=92s license.

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information of two references. Applications will be considered immediately and continue until the position is filled. To ensure full consideration please submit material by February 24, 2017. For additional information or to submit application material, please contact Iris Allen (ica0002@mix.wvu.edu).

Conservation Genetic Lab Technician

The deadline is February 10th.

Title: Conservation Genetics Lab Technician

Agency: Texas A&M University, Institute of Renewable Natural Resources

Location: Dallas, TX

Job Description: Mussel Research Group at Texas A&M University Institute of Renewable Natural Resources is looking to hire a highly motivated Lab Technician. The individual will assist research in conservation genetics of freshwater mussels in Texas. Primary job duties include archiving tissue samples, DNA extraction, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), DNA sequencing, and fragment analyses; however, the individual should expect occasional field sampling of mussels. Fieldwork includes visual and tactile search for mussels (wading and snorkeling), mussel identification, and data entry. Typical work schedule: 5 days per week, 8 hrs per day. Occasionally, longer workdays may be required to complete field sampling.

Applicants must be self-motivated, enthusiastic, and enjoy working with others. Applicants should anticipate residing in Dallas, Texas.

Salary: $900 every 2 weeks

Qualifications: Bachelor=92s degree in Biology or related field; experience extracting DNA and PCR; excellent communication skills and competency to work independently. Preference will be given to applicants with strong background in phylogenetics/population genetics, work experience in a molecular genetics laboratory, and/or familiarity with population genetics and phylogenetic analysis software.

Tentative Start Date: February 28, 2017. This position is initially for 4 months; however, it may be extended depending on performance and there is the possibility to switch to a graduate degree at Texas A&M University.

As a single email attachment, submit cover letter, resume, and contact information for 3 references to Kentaro Inoue (kentaro.inoue@ag.tamu.edu). Review of applications will start February 10, 2017 and continue until a suitable candidate is found.

Website: http://irnr.tamu.edu/  |  http://tamuirnrmussels.weebly.com/

Undergraduate Scholarship in marine science

Greetings,

The Duke University Marine Lab is pleased to offer full scholarships for two undergraduates ( covering tuition & fees, room & board, books, travel to Beaufort, and support for participation in a Beaufort Signature travel course to Panama during a semester of study, Fall 2017 in Beaufort North Carolina. Undergraduate scholars will enroll in Duke courses taught in Beaufort where there is emphasis on the biology and physiology of marine organisms, marine molecular biology, marine policy, and coastal socio-ecological issues. Scholars will choose their coursework from a list of fall course options: https://nicholas.duke.edu/marinelab/programs/undergraduate/fall. Students will receive a Duke University transcript at the conclusion of the semester.

Application deadline: 25 February 2017

Notification of awards will be made no later than 15 March 2017.

To be eligible, an applicant must

  *   be enrolled as a sophomore, junior, or senior in college in Fall 2017 (Duke students are not eligible for this scholarship)

  *   be a US citizen or hold a permanent resident visa

Other factors considered in the evaluation process include whether an applicant

  *   identifies with a group that is racially/ethnically underrepresented in marine science

  *   has demonstrated interest in marine science and its impact on society

  *   anticipates pursuing a PhD in the marine sciences

  *   submits a compelling personal statement and strong letters of recommendation

To apply

Interested students are required to submit:

*         Personal essay: How has your heritage made a difference in your life? How might it resonate in your work in marine science? How will a semester at the Duke Marine Laboratory benefit your career goals?

*         Resume

*         Two academic letters of recommendation (email to dukemarinelab@nicholas.duke.edu)

*         Official transcript

*         Undergraduate Scholarship Application (available at the website link below)

Students on financial aid should consult with their financial aid advisor to determine how a scholarship would impact their financial aid package.

Check the website for complete application information:  https://nicholas.duke.edu/marinelab/undergraduate/scholarships-marine-science

Summer Courses at the Highlands Biological Station

ACCREDITED COURSES

Creatively Communicating Biology & Ecology (May 8-13) with Dr. Hannah Rogers, Columbia University

Darwin and the Origin of Species: A Field Course (May 8-20) with Dr. James Costa, Western Carolina University & Highlands Biological Station

Landscape Conservation of Amphibians (May 15-27) with Dr. Bill Peterman, The Ohio State University

Grasses (Poaceae) of the Southern Appalachians (May 22-27) with Dr. Paul McKenzie, US Fish & Wildlife Service

Biology & Identification of Ferns (May 29-June 3) with Dr. Joey Shaw, University of Tennessee-

Chattanooga

Flora of the Blue Ridge (June 5-17) with Dr. Paul Manos, Duke University

General Ecology (June 12-24) with Dr. Thomas Martin, Western Carolina University

Conservation Biology in the Field (June 26-July 8) with Dr. Peter White, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill

Introduction to Southern Appalachian Fungi (July 17-29) with Dr. Rich Baird, Mississippi State University, and Jay Justice, Arkansas Mycological Society

Forest Ecosystems of the Southern Appalachians (July 24-August 5) with Dr. Stephanie Jeffries, North Carolina State University, Dr. Alan Weakley, UNC-Chapel Hill, and Dr. Julie Tuttle, Duke University

Southern Appalachian Mayflies, Stoneflies, & Caddisflies (July 31-August 12) with Dr. John Morse, Clemson University

Wetland Plant Communities (August 7-12) with Dr. Dwayne Estes, Botanical Research Institute of Texas (BRIT) and Austin Peay State University

WORKSHOPS (NOT FOR CREDIT)

Wildflowers and Waterfalls  (May 1-5) with Dr. Timothy Spira, Clemson University

Mountains Piled Upon Mountains: Exploring western North Carolina through William Bartram=92s Travels (May 15-20) with Brent Martin, The Wilderness Society

Macrophotography: A Bug=92s-Eye View of Nature (June 5-9) with Dr. Kefyn Catley, Western Carolina University

Gardening with Native Plants in Highlands (July 10-14) with Dr. Larry Mellichamp, University of North Carolina-Charlotte

Rain Garden Design (July 17-18) with Russell Funderburk, Highlands Botanical Garden

Mushrooms of the Carolinas (August 14-18) with Alan & Arleen Bessette & Michael Hopping

Tree Identification (October 18-20) with Russell Funderburk, Highlands Botanical Garden

For more information and course descriptions, visit our website at highlandsbiological.org/summer-2017/

MS Research Assistantship Available in Forest Ecophysiology

A masters level research assistantship is available in the Forest Ecophysiology lab of Dr. Heidi Renninger in the Department of Forestry(http://www.cfr.msstate.edu/forestry/) at Mississippi State Universitystarting August, 2017.  Broadly, my lab seeks to understand how the physical environment affects plant physiological functioning in terms ofproductivity and water use and how environmental change will alter plantand ecosystem function in the future.  Specific research projects are open and could include (but are not limited to) any of the following topics:  physiological functioning of bottomland hardwood tree speciesin terms of the ecosystem services they provide, physiological comparison of water use in upland hardwood species in relation to mesophication and flammability of the ecosystem, physiology of poplar biofuel crops, or structure/function relationships in xylem and phloemacross plant types.  This two year assistantship provides financial support including a stipend, tuition waiver and health insurance.  Moreinformation about the graduate school at Mississippi State University can be found here:  http://www.grad.msstate.edu/.  To learn more aboutthe position, please contact Heidi Renninger at Heidi.Renninger@msstate.edu.  Interested students should submit a letterof interest that provides information on the student=92s background, research interests and goals for graduate school as well as a resume/CVto Dr. Renninger. Review of applications will begin on Feb. 20th.

HJ Andrews Experimental Forest LTER REU position

We are seeking applicants for an NSF-funded Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) position in summer 2017 to examine small carnivore (e.g., weasel, western spotted skunk, Pacific marten) ecology at the H.J. Andrews Experimental Forest on the west slope of the Oregon Cascades near Blue River, Oregon. This project will focus on non-invasive approaches (i.e., camera trapping) to understand the spatial distribution and estimate populations densities of these small carnivores. This research will contribute to a larger PhD project on the small mammal and small carnivore food webs in the Pacific Northwest forest. As such, the student will be encouraged to participate in small carnivore captures and subsequent radiotelemetry.

The position will be based at the H.J. Andrews Experimental Forest and travel will be required for short trips to Oregon State University (Corvallis, Oregon). The Andrews Forest was established in 1948 as an US Forest Service Experimental Forest, and since 1980 is one of the National Science Foundation’s Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) sites. The field station has modern apartments with full kitchens, a well-equipped computer lab, and wireless internet (seehttp://andrewsforest.oregonstate.edu/ for more information on the site, facilities and research programs at the HJ Andrews Experimental Forest). The landscape is home to iconic Pacific Northwest old-growth forests of cedar and hemlock, and moss-draped ancient Douglas firs; steep terrain; and fast, cold-running streams.

The goal of this program is to provide undergraduate students an opportunity to participate in 10 weeks of mentored, paid, independent research. The program includes a weekly seminar series and an opportunity for the student to interact with a multitude of scientists, OSU faculty, federal scientists, and graduate students conducting research in the area. Participants will closely work with the PIs of the project (Drs. Taal Levi, Damon Lesmeister, and Clint Epps) and a PhD student (Marie Tosa) on the grant. The REU student will conduct supervised and guided research and be encouraged to tailor the research project to his/her own interests.

This position lasts for 10 weeks, starting May 29 through August 4, 2017, working at least 40 hours/week. Exact dates are flexible. The student will be responsible for 1) meeting all requirements of the mentors and 2) writing a final research report on his/her research experience. Housing and a weekly stipend of $550 will be provided ($5500 total). There are also some funds to defray the cost of traveling to the H. J. Andrews Experimental Forest.

Position Requirements: Applicants should have a valid driver=92s license, the ability to carry a heavy pack (40+ lb) for moderate distances over uneven terrain, and be comfortable spending long days on their feet in the field. The position will involve working in inclement weather. Previous field experience and experience climbing trees are a plus. A general understanding of ecology is desirable. Eligibility is limited to currently enrolled undergraduates that have a graduate date no sooner than fall 2017. All applicants must be U.S. Citizens or permanent residents. Women, underrepresented minorities, and persons with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply.

To apply: Please submit a brief cover letter (1 page) indicating your interest, experience and professional goals after graduation, curriculum vitae or resume, transcripts (unofficial are acceptable) and 3 professional references (names, addresses, phone number, and email address) as 1 document to: tosam@oregonstate.edu. Please include in the subject: HJA REU 2017 Application. Only complete applications will be considered. Review of applications will start Feb. 19, 2017 and continue until a suitable candidate is identified.

Questions should be directed to: Marie Tosa, email: tosam@oregonstate.edu, subject: HJA REU 2017.

Job Announcment for Recreational Fisheries Field Surveyors…

We are seeking to fill several statewide vacancies for Recreational Fisheries Field Surveyors.

Please see the attachment for more details, as well instructions on how to apply.

Please circulate far and wide to assist us in finding good candidates.

Thank you.

David

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

14 Barnabas Rd.

Marion, MA 02738

Tel: 508-990-9054

Fax: 508-990-9055

 

MA Recreational Fisheries Survey Technician

Title: Seasonal Fisheries Technician

Full-time – Part-time: Part-time (20-40 hrs. week). No benefits

Shift:  Variable Day and Night

City – Town Location: Various coastal ports throughout Massachusetts. From North Shore south, to all of Cape Cod, Islands, Plymouth and Bristol Counties.

Facility Location:  MA Division of Marine Fisheries – Work is field based

Region:  Coastal ports in MA

Pay:  $12.00 – $14.00 per hour commensurate with experience

Application Deadline:  March 3rd or until filled.

 

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:

A.I.S. Inc. is contracted by the State of Massachusetts, Division of Marine Fisheries (MA DMF) to support the collection of recreational fisheries data for the NOAA Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP). A.I.S. will provide MA DMF with fisheries technicians to interact with fishermen and conduct Access Point Angler Intercept Surveys (APAIS) at coastal locations and, or, at sea aboard recreational party boats during fishing trips.  Sampling time and locations are randomly selected by NOAA Fisheries protocol and will occur at boat ramps, marinas, beaches, jetties and fishing piers throughout MA.  Interviewers obtain actual catch information from anglers such as species caught, and count of fish kept or released.   Biological information such as length and weight measurements of whole harvested fish are also obtained.  The catch data are used to produce a statewide estimate of the total fish caught, harvested and released for recreationally important marine species.  The survey data are used extensively by fishery biologists and managers to assess stock condition, evaluate regulations, and plan future management actions that lead to sustainable recreational fisheries. 

 

DUTIES:

1.      Interview anglers using scripted survey questions.  Collect biological, demographic, and economic fisheries data at coastal locations throughout MA, or aboard “for hire” party boats at sea.

2.      Accurately record and code data on standardized forms.  Self audit data prior to submission.

3.      Follow strict sampling schedule, specific sampling times and locations, according to scientific protocol.

4.      Electronically submit weekly summary reports of activity.  Mail data on time, according to deadline.

5.      Operate and maintain field equipment and sampling gear.

Compensation: $12.00 – $14.00 per hour commensurate with experience, plus paid mileage.

QUALIFICATIONS:

 

1.      Applicants should have at least one year of full-time, or equivalent part-time technical experience in marine biology or fisheries work. One year of the required experience may consist of the substitution below:

Two years of study in marine, fisheries or wildlife biology; fisheries or wildlife management; marine science or oceanography may be substituted for the required experience.  Candidates without the above experience will be considered on a case by case basis.

2.      Ability to identify marine fish and invertebrates common in Massachusetts’ coastal waters.

3.      Experience working on fishing vessels and small craft with common sampling tools (measuring boards and scales).

4.      Knowledge of computer software applications including: Microsoft Office Suite

5.      Experience filling out data forms in the field and compiling data in tabular and graphical form.

6.      Ability to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions including rainy and windy conditions, heat and cold.

7.      Good public relations skills.  Ability to interact favorably with anglers, boat crews and captains.

8.      Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends and holidays to accommodate sea sampling trips.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

1.      Job requires work on most weekends, when a majority of recreational fishing takes place, and some longer/earlier/later than normal work days.

2.      Some applicants will be primarily shore based, while others will be designated to survey anglers from both shore and at sea.  Candidates selected to survey on vessels, must be able to perform sampling offshore in less than ideal weather and vessel operating conditions.

3.      Applicants must be physically fit and capable of lifting heavy fish specimens, both alive and dead, standing for 6 hours, climbing and descending ladders to access shore sample sites, walking on soft sand, conduct interviews in noisy environments and to safely navigate slippery surfaces at boat ramps, rock jetties and while boarding vessels.

4.      Applicants must have a valid driver’s license and reliable source of transportation.

5.      All candidates must be approved by the MA Division of Marine Fisheries.

 

To Apply: Please submit a resume, cover letter, 5 professional references (name, e-mail address and phone number) and unofficial copies of your college transcripts.  Click the following link (https://goo.gl/eIXS9B ) to complete our application and to submit the required documents.

Application deadline is open until filled.

VEVRAA Federal Contractor

Request Priority Protected Veteran Referrals

Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Females/Protected Veterans/Disabled

Additional questions regarding the position can be directed to Jay Litchfield at 508-990-9054.

Internships in Tropical Conservation – Peru 2017

The Alliance for a Sustainable Amazon (ASA), a non-profit organization working in the southeastern Peruvian Amazon, is seeking interns to assist its international team of biologists and conservationists with various projects spanning biological research and monitoring and sustainable tropical agriculture. Interns are based at Finca Las Piedras, the ASA=92s field site in Peru=92s Madre de Dios Department.

LENGTH OF STAY: 4, 8 or 12 weeks

DATES: Starting June 19, 2017

FEES: Starting at $1,300

WEBSITE: www.sustainableamazon.org<http://www.sustainableamazon.org>

THREE OPPORTUNITIES:

1. INTRODUCTION TO SUSTAINABILITY INTERNSHIP (4 weeks – $1,300)

This 4-week program offers participants a broad introduction to biological research and conservation in the tropics. Our teaching and learning approach is both academic and hands-on. Interns will participate directly in scientific research and applied conservation projects that span the Alliance for a Sustainable Amazon=92s two focal areas: biological research and monitoring and sustainable tropical agriculture. With the help of academic faculty, interns will also navigate tropical biology and conservation science through lectures and weekly reading discussions covering articles drawn from the primary scientific literature. This is an excellent opportunity to explore an exciting variety of potential career paths in biology and conservation under the guidance of experts in those fields.

2. ADVANCED SUSTAINABILITY INTERNSHIP (8 weeks – $2,200)

This 8-week program offers participants a more in-depth survey of biological research and conservation in the tropics. Interns will learn by participating directly in scientific research and applied conservation projects that span the Alliance for a Sustainable Amazon=92s two focal areas: biological research and monitoring and sustainable tropical agriculture. With the guidance of academic faculty, interns will also navigate tropical biology and conservation science through lectures and weekly reading discussions covering articles drawn from the primary scientific literature.

Independent Research Project: As well as the activities listed above, participants in the Advanced Sustainability Internship Program will have the added opportunity to develop an Independent Research Project on a topic of their choosing, under the supervision of our academic faculty.

3. ACADEMIC QUARTER INTERNSHIP (12 weeks – $3,000)

This 12-week program offers participants the most thorough exploration of biological research and conservation in the tropics. Interns will learn by participating directly in scientific research and applied conservation projects that span our two focal areas: biological research and monitoring and sustainable tropical agriculture. Under the guidance of our academic faculty, interns will also explore topics tropical biology and conservation science through lectures and weekly reading discussions covering articles drawn from the primary scientific literature. All interns maintain a field journal, including daily entries that aim to synthesize their learning experiences and sharpen their observational skills.

Independent Research Project: As well as the activities listed above, participants in the Academic Quarter Internship Program will have the added opportunity to develop an Independent Research Project on a topic of their choosing, under the supervision of our academic faculty. This will allow interns to build upon what they have learned at the beginning of the program and apply it to a project in an area that is novel or interesting to them.

MORE INFORMATION & HOW TO APPLY:

For more details about our Internship Programs in the Peruvian Amazon please visit our website http://www.sustainableamazon.org<http://www.sustainableamazon.org/> . For general inquiries please contact us at info@sustainableamazon.org

We look forward to meeting you in Peru!