Vegetation Monitoring Technician for Sage-Grouse Research in Southern Montana

We are looking for a technician to assist with a greater sage-grouse research project with the University of Wyoming. The project will focus on identifying priority seasonal habitat for sage-grouse in south-central Montana, near Bridger. The position will last approximately 2 months, beginning mid-May and ending in mid to late-July. 

Duties include vegetation sampling using Line Intercept, Daubenmire and Robel pole methods; identifying sagebrush steppe shrubs and forbs; navigating using maps and GPS; data entry and proofing; and operating 4WD trucks and ATV’s in remote and rugged terrain. Technician will be part of a 2-3 person crew and will have the opportunity to assist other technicians with locating radio-marked grouse using radio telemetry, monitoring nests, and nighttime brood counts.

Work will require sharing camp trailers or apartments with other technicians, extensive hiking in rugged terrain, driving ATVs and 4WD trucks, long hours (> 40/wk; 10 or more hrs/day), and a willingness to endure potentially adverse environmental conditions including cold, heat, intense sun, dust, rain, snow, and biting insects. It is essential that applicants are able to work well with others and also work independently. Experience with vegetation surveys are a plus. Technicians will gain valuable experience in fieldwork, and wildlife and vegetation monitoring.

Start Date: mid-May, 2019
Final Date to Apply: February 10, 2019. 
Salary: ~$1900/Month, housing provided.

Qualifications
Those who have earned or are pursuing degrees in wildlife ecology/science, rangeland ecology/science, botany, zoology, biology, ecology or related fields are encouraged to apply.
Successful applicants should have the ability to:
– Be detailed-oriented and take detailed field notes
– Legibly record field data and enter it into Excel spreadsheets
– Follow instructions and survey methodologies
– Navigate using maps and GPS equipment
– Work and live side-by-side with co-workers in shared housing
– Maintain positive attitude while working long days and >40 hrs/wk with variable work schedules and under extreme weather conditions
– Maintain positive attitude while completing repetitive and mundane tasks
– Assist with vegetation surveys
– Safely operate 4WD pickups and ATV’s
-Work independently and as part of a team

Preference will be given to those who have experience in the above job duties, but experience with every aspect of the work is not necessary. However, a willingness to learn is a must!

Please send a letter of interest (1 page), resume and contact information for 3 references as a single attached document (labeled with last name) via email to Erin Birtwistle. Please include dates you are available to start work. Applicants will be reviewed starting February 10th.

Contact person: Erin Birtwistle (ebirtwis at uwyo.edu)

PhD Position Available on Grassland Birds and Microclimates (UW-Madison)

We are seeking an outstanding student to lead a novel, multi-scaled quantification of microclimates within grassland conservation areas and evaluate their importance on the nesting biology of declining grassland bird populations. The student’s dissertation will involve quantifying microclimates in grasslands using both ground-based sensors and unmanned aerial vehicle (thermography), design and implement a concurrent study of nesting biology for grassland birds, and analyze citizen science data to   evaluate the importance of extreme events on grassland bird populations. This study will evaluate the potential of managing microclimates as a form of climate change adaptation. This is a USDA-funded collaboration in the department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology at UW-Madison (Zuckerberg, Ribic) and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology (Fink). The 4-year PhD assistantship will begin in the fall of 2019 (or possibly earlier).

Applicants must have a MS degree in ecology, forestry, geography, or other related discipline. We will only consider applicants with a BS degree if they have proven relevant experience. A solid working knowledge of avian ecology, population modeling, GIS, and statistics are required.  Although not a requirement, the preferred candidate will have strong experience in field ornithology, collecting and analyzing nest data, and species distribution modeling. Excellent English writing and verbal communication skills are essential.

Review of applicants will begin immediately, but the position will remain open until a suitable candidate is found. Applications received by February 8, 2019 are guaranteed full consideration. The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. We promote excellence through diversity and encourage all qualified individuals to apply. The position is open to both US citizen and international candidates. The project includes an annual stipend, plus tuition remission and health care benefits. We envision a start date of September 2019, but an earlier start date may be possible.

UW-Madison has a long history of excellence in ecology, conservation biology, remote sensing and geography. The university ranks consistently among the top research universities in the United States.  Total student enrollment is 43,000 of which approximately 12,000 are graduate and professional students, and there are over 2,000 faculty.  UW-Madison is an exciting place to learn and conduct research! The city of Madison ranks as one of the most attractive places in the U.S. to live and work.  For information about campus and city, please seehttps://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wisc.edu%2Fabout%2F&data=02%7C01%7Cmiranda.l.davis%40uconn.edu%7C1440ece10ba046c5b06608d67d356853%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636834065669133965&sdata=v1q5XrRvIJnujIY29VwzK%2FnSSjw%2B7YVxd7AgsMGgwSE%3D&reserved=0

To apply, please submit your application here:

https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fuwmadison.co1.qualtrics.com%2Fjfe%2Fform%2FSV_80PigZ26vdDGFoh&data=02%7C01%7Cmiranda.l.davis%40uconn.edu%7C1440ece10ba046c5b06608d67d356853%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636834065669133965&sdata=nayD%2BbwszAVuU3o%2BlpTN5GkugxdQD6oyTfKwAfXpx4w%3D&reserved=0

Please note that submitting an application includes filling out a small survey (< 15 minutes), uploading a cover letter summarizing research interests and experiences, curriculum vitae, and unofficial transcripts or summary of relevant coursework (both undergraduate and graduate).

After reviewing all applicants, we will ask for reference letters from top candidates.

Our 2018 Seasonal Resource Assistant positions with the Diadromous Fisheries Program have been posted. If you know of any interested individuals, please feel free to distribute the link below.

https://www.jobapscloud.com/CT/sup/bulpreview.asp?R1=181220&R2=3492VR&R3=001

We (www.wagnerlabmsu.com) are seeking two motivated, skilled, energetic, and collaborative graduate students to join a cluster hire of four graduate students working on various questions related to the perception and response to predation risk in sea lamprey when migrating (either into rivers to spawn, or out of rivers to begin parasitic feeding). The work will integrate movement ecology, behavioral biology, and chemistry (semiochemical communication), and is conducted in collaboration with university and Federal scientists working in the U.S. and Canada. The scientific understanding developed will be used to examine theories surrounding the context-specificity of anti-predator tactic selection, and to develop novel, innovative approaches to controlling this species (where it is invasive) and conserving it (where it is threatened) that employ behavioral manipulations achieved by creating chemical information landscapes that guide the animal’s movement decisions. Both projects are funded by an international commission (www.GLFC.org), and will require interaction with agency managers and decision-makers, and public outreach.

If you are interested in applying for one of the projects listed below (or starting a conversation about either), please send a C.V. and cover letter addressing your graduate education and professional interests to Dr. Michael Wagner (mwagner@msu.edu), Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Michigan State University.

Project #1 (M.S.): The successful applicant will study the out-migration timing and movement behavior of newly transformed parasitic sea lampreys (AKA macrophthalmia or ‘transformers’) in rivers draining to Lake Michigan. Our goals for this project are to (1) provide the first meaningful empirical insight into the movements and survival of wild juvenile sea lamprey during their out-migration from natal rearing grounds to the open waters of the Great Lakes, and (2) to demonstrate the utility of a new acoustic micro-transmitter for the study of juvenile sea lamprey, including the development of transferable protocols for tag implantation and holding practices. The project will integrate laboratory studies (surgical techniques and recovery, effects of the tag on swim performance and movement tendencies), and a field movement study to estimate reach-specific mortality rates experience by out-migrants by fitting a multi-state Cormack-Jolly-Seber model. The work will be in collaboration with university and Federal scientists working with the Hammond Bay Biological Station (Michigan) and the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (Washington). The student will be co-advised by Dr. Travis Brenden of the MSU Quantitative Fisheries Center (www.canr.msu.edu/qfc/). Two years of funding are guaranteed (stipend $21K, tuition and health benefits are paid). Requirements: B.S. in fisheries, biology, ecology, aquatic or marine science/biology, or general biology. Experience in working with fishes or in streams is desired, as are quantitative analysis skills, a proficiency with R, or experience with acoustic telemetry equipment (especially the JSATS system). A highly competitive student will have a GPA > 3.3 and GRE scores above the 65^thpercentile.

Project #2 (M.S. or Ph.D.): The successful applicant will study the behavioral ecology of an alarm cue in sea lamprey (a chemical mixture released from injured tissue) that warns conspecifics about the location of predation events. This project is part the second phase of a larger project to discover the chemical structures of the compounds that comprise the alarm cue odor. The student will examine the behavioral reactivity and ecological function of identified compounds and mixtures in an attempt to isolate the complete alarm cue (never before accomplished in fishes). Work will be in collaboration with a post-doctoral research associate in Dr. Muralee Nair’s laboratory at MSU (chemistry of natural products), who is leading the effort to identify the compounds. In addition to addressing fundamental questions of anti-predator behavior, the student will also test mixtures for use in repellent-based behavioral manipulations to achieve management and conservation goals. Three years of funding are guaranteed (stipend $21K, tuition and health benefits are paid). Requirements: B.S. in fisheries, biology, ecology, aquatic or marine science/biology, or general biology. Experience in working with fishes or in streams is desired, as are quantitative analysis skills and proficiency with R. A highly competitive student will have a GPA > 3.3 and GRE scores above the 65^th percentile. For consideration as a Ph.D. student, an appropriate M.S. related to the fields described above is required. Expertise in animal behavior and behavioral ecology are preferred for a Ph.D. student.

How predators alter parasite transmission in complex communities

The Johnson Laboratory (https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.johnsonlaboraotry.com&amp;data=02%7C01%7Cmiranda.l.davis%40uconn.edu%7C4426f783f94046e9851608d67c84fb16%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636833307920468353&amp;sdata=QPRWOMlZag%2FrxAlKCb6N%2FeF1JcdJBf5lD3QIot7k%2FlM%3D&amp;reserved=0) is accepting a qualified undergraduate NSF REU applicant for our lab crew at the University of Colorado in Boulder beginning in May 11 (some flexibility) and concluding in early August 2019.

The Johnson laboratory has made it our mission to sincerely commit to promoting diversity! This search is open to all student candidates (that will not graduate prior to June 2019) from any race, color, religion, ethnic, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, age, or veteran status especially those from underrepresented groups in science.

Research Project: Predator inhibition of trematode parasite transmission: The primary objective for this project is to have a student investigate a much-needed research topic surrounding the study of infections and pathology caused by trematodes. The selected student will lead an ambitious yet tractable study into how common aquatic predators affect the spread of parasites and whether these effects vary by parasite species or predator foraging strategy. Over the summer, the selected REU will work closely with Dr. Johnson and our research team at the University of Colorado Boulder. The student will gain valuable experience in designing experiments, quantifying ecological data, and statistical analysis. They will also obtain foundational knowledge of host-parasite interactions, predator-prey dynamics, and the identification of both parasite and free-living species. Following completion of the experiments, the student will work closely with the PI to analyze (1) how the rate of parasite consumption varies by predator, and (2) whether predators select certain parasites preferentially as a function of body size, movement patterns, or activity times based on the natural history of the parasite.

To apply: Email an application package that should include (1) a brief statement of interest detailing how obtaining an REU would advance your career goals; (2) a description of related previous research; (3) a statement of how you will support diversity and inclusion in our laboratory, and finally (4) a current CV. Please compile the application package into a single PDF and email to dana.calhoun@colorado.edu with the subject title (PREDATOR REU application) by February 11th, 2018.

*Please remember ONLY undergraduates that will be continuing their education in fall 2019 can apply*

Parasitology Research Technician

The Johnson Laboratory (https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.johnsonlaboraotry.com&amp;data=02%7C01%7Cmiranda.l.davis%40uconn.edu%7C0e5d0885821d46ca5ca308d67c84f08f%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636833307761756998&amp;sdata=mnAww%2B%2BwY%2F1PTqAEsaXpgALnfuMavmO4CLDjg9mDPDI%3D&amp;reserved=0) is accepting two qualified parasitology research technicians to assist in the laboratory at the world-recognized University of Colorado located in scenic Boulder Colorado beginning in May and concluding in August 2019.

The Johnson laboratory has made it our mission to sincerely commit to promoting diversity! This search is open to all candidates from any race, color, religion, ethnic, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, age, or veteran status especially those from underrepresented groups in science.

The primary responsibilities of these individuals will be to perform necropsies on a wide range of amphibian, fish, and snail species to identify and quantify macro-parasite infections. This will include (i) isolation of macro-parasites for molecular and morphological vouchers and abundance (ii) and use of microscopic photography techniques to identify and document in situ and isolate macro-parasites. In addition these individuals will be expected to assist with daily management of the laboratory including husbandry of live amphibians and snails and to assist with laboratory and mesocosm experiments. Competitive candidates will have prior independent research experience which needs to include necropsy of vertebrates, proficient excel and data entry skills, and some parasite identification skills. This position salary will depend on experience level of candidates. This position is temporary and does not include housing costs.

To Apply:
To apply for parasitology research technicians send an application package that should include (i) a cover letter that states your specific necropsy experiences, previous scientific research experiences, a statement of how you will support diversity and inclusion in our team, and why you would like to work for the Johnson Laboratory specifically, (ii) a current CV (iii), contact information for three professional references (include email and phone number) and your availability for a start date (must be able to start by May 10th 2019).  Please send the compiled application package into a PDF (one document) and email to dana.calhoun@colorado.edu with the position title “Parasitology Technician” in the subject line by February 11, 2019.

How color polymorphisms in frogs affect vulnerability to fungal infection

The Johnson Laboratory (https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.johnsonlaboraotry.com&amp;data=02%7C01%7Cmiranda.l.davis%40uconn.edu%7Cdd3b6b90bcca4c37aa1108d67c84e538%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636833307557788148&amp;sdata=5XWC7o5WWT%2FjzMSdyRiFWOgpTqCGZlKBU0RPE6xmMG8%3D&amp;reserved=0) is accepting a qualified undergraduate NSF REU applicant for our field crew in the Bay Area of California beginning in May 11 (some flexibility) and concluding in early August 2019.

The Johnson laboratory has made it our mission to sincerely commit to promoting diversity! This search is open to all student candidates (that will not graduate prior to June 2019) from any race, color, religion, ethnic, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, age, or veteran status especially those from underrepresented groups in science.

Project details: A field-based investigation into the role of host color in amphibian body temperature and infection susceptibility: The primary objective for this project is understand the relationship between amphibian color, host thermal profile, and infection. The student will investigate this topic using broad-scale field surveys in central California ponds, a region that is ideal for addressing these questions because of previously documented heterogeneity in Bd prevalence and intensity both among ponds and through time.
            The selected REU student will work closely with our collaborative field team in the California Bay Area, where our research into amphibian disease ecology is focused. They will be stationed at the UC Reserve Blue Oaks Ranch, which provides housing, laboratory facilities, and a vibrant academic atmosphere. During this time, the student will gain experience in sampling aquatic ecosystems, including techniques for censusing amphibians and other aquatic organisms. This will include performing additional field sampling techniques including but not limited to: dipnets, seines, visual surveys, snail parasite identification, and pathogen swabbing. In addition, this individual will be expected to assist with daily record keeping and equipment maintenance Along with gaining experience in general field techniques the REU will quantify patterns of Bd infection, host color, and temperature of captured frogs.

To apply: Email an application package that should include (1) a brief statement of interest detailing how obtaining an REU would advance your career goals; (2) a description of related previous research; (3) a statement of how you will support diversity and inclusion in our field team, and finally (4) a current CV. Please compile the application package into a single PDF and email to dana.calhoun@colorado.edu with the subject title (COLOR REU application) by February 11th, 2018.

*Please remember ONLY undergraduates that will be continuing their education in fall 2019 can apply*