Opportunities

REU Position – University of Minnesota – Twin Cities

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Institution: University of Minnesota – Twin Cities

Principal Investigators: Dr. Ruth Shaw & Dr. Mason Kulbaba

Program Dates: 6/4/2018 – 8/10/2018

Description: Dr. Ruth Shaw’s Research Group in the Dept. of Ecology, Evolution & Behavior at the University of Minnesota is seeking applicants for an NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) position in summer 2018 to study the process of ongoing adaptation in experimental populations of partridge pea (Chamaecrista fasciculata) in prairie habitat. The student will work closely with Dr. Ruth Shaw and Dr. Mason Kulbaba to develop an independent project in the area of plant evolutionary genetics, with possibilities ranging from studies of heritability and phenotypic selection on plant traits to studies of pollination ecology and mating system variation. The student will gain invaluable experience in performing field work and in conducting an independent research project, from hypothesis formulation through oral and written dissemination of results, as grounding for future work in inquiry-based research. The student must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and enrolled as an undergraduate for Fall 2018. The ideal candidate should enjoy working outdoors and have an interest in learning about the evolution and ecology of plants in the Midwest prairies, and candidates planning to pursue a graduate career in evolution, ecology, or conservation biology are particularly well-suited for this position.
The REU intern will receive a stipend of $5,500 and an allowance for room and board in the Twin Cities (with occasional overnight travel to field sites). Costs of travel to and from the Twin Cities will also be provided. The deadline to apply for this position is February 21, 2018, and the 10-week internship is expected to begin on Monday, June 4 and end on Friday, August 10. Please contact Mason Kulbaba
(mkulbaba@umn.edu) for more information. The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. Individuals of underrepresented groups are especially encouraged to apply. Please forward this advertisement to any interested and qualified undergraduates.

To apply, please e-mail the following application materials to Mason Kulbaba (mkulbaba@umn.edu) with the subject line “REU” no later than February 21, 2018:
1. A statement explaining the following: why you are interested in this position, what are your future plans, dates you are available to start and end this position, confirm eligibility for the REU program, the name and contact information of the person who will serve as your reference, your e-mail address and phone number.
2. Resume.
3. Transcript (unofficial is acceptable.) 4. One letter of recommendation (sent by your reference).

Graduate Position: NorthDakotaStateU.EvolutionaryBehavioralEcol

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The Dochtermann Lab in the Department of Biological Sciences at North Dakota
State University is seeking to fill a PhD assistantship as part of a project
examining how evolutionary factors and habitat change shape behavioral
syndromes (trait correlations). The student will develop and pursue their
own research topics while also working within a broader NSF funded project.

In our lab we focus on evolutionary questions regarding the maintenance of
variation within and among populations and the evolutionary implications of
how traits are correlated.

The position will start Fall Semester 2018. The student will be housed and
working in the Department of Biological Sciences
(https://www.ndsu.edu/biology/) with their degree awarded through the NDSU
Environmental Sciences and Conservation Program.

Requirements: Bachelors or Masters in ecology, evolution, animal behavior,
or related field; experience collecting and analyzing data; ability to work
independently and as part of a larger collaborative group.

Preferred: MSc preferred; experience conducting quantitative genetic
experiments; field research experience

If interested please contact me at ned.dochtermann@gmail.com and provide a
brief synopsis of your research interests.

Ned

—
Ned A. Dochtermann
Assistant Professor / Department of Biological Sciences / NORTH DAKOTA STATE
UNIVERSITY
p: 701.231.7353 / f: 701.231.7149 / http://www.ndsu.edu

http://secure-web.cisco.com/1wfj0fC8mVkoEBpqJd_Za2kwhrSXAkQDMdkhiGic-PGNV2MqSkpcedPWT8-5fQrTGZLl0Ghv-VD9Yur0_6fxdNTN8PK6t7D3FA2RbB2HJUOB-pkwVjuT0E5ELQA3BBwjZDumOTI3tTe34BPq_o_1NC3E6NbOJZpAqmUM3tneBbs1QTgJxa4q9ZmI1BG4IslFHu-NQzHjjMiqyX2hhcOUG5WYWtF_PVXTM28JiHkH8lOc3y3NVF8zGDVY7s12HIXDPzyxOr0nBjz7ghz9SVGQZ73nTmL3TD2IkM25tIpee_MC9Koa4g-cKzi_2JuOLRNr-pCeT6Qs36BDnHD7LQIsKXdVBWajcOwG7A8SQcBxyV9_Syg4S9PAIS6Wf2saFSUANT8FctAr4Z3D-FpuXQl9qzt9P5hF7cRqTVxQTqC1m61I96R35sy1r0rWZS3YSQ-Yr/http%3A%2F%2Fwww.neddochtermann.com
ned.dochtermann@ndsu.edu

ned.dochtermann@gmail.com

PhD Position: Evolutionary and Behavioral Ecology

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Subject: PhD Position: Evolutionary and Behavioral Ecology

The Dochtermann Lab in the Department of Biological Sciences at North Dakota State University is seeking to fill a PhD assistantship as part of a project examining how evolutionary factors and habitat change shape behavioral syndromes (trait correlations). The student will develop and pursue their own research topics while also working within a broader NSF funded project.

In our lab we focus on evolutionary questions regarding the maintenance of variation within and among populations and the evolutionary implications of how traits are correlated.

The position will start Fall Semester 2018. The student will be housed and working in the Department of Biological Sciences
(https://www.ndsu.edu/biology/) with their degree awarded through the NDSU Environmental Sciences and Conservation Program.

Requirements: Bachelors or Masters in ecology, evolution, animal behavior, or related field; experience collecting and analyzing data; ability to work independently and as part of a larger collaborative group.

Preferred: MSc preferred; experience conducting quantitative genetic experiments; field research experience

If interested please contact me at ned.dochtermann@gmail.com and provide a brief synopsis of your research interests.

Ned

—
Ned A. Dochtermann
Assistant Professor / Department of Biological Sciences / NORTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY
p: 701.231.7353 / f: 701.231.7149 / http://www.ndsu.edu

www.neddochtermann.com
ned.dochtermann@ndsu.edu

Environment for the Americas Internship: Begich Boggs Alaska

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Subject: Environment for the Americas Internship: Begich Boggs Alaska

Visitor Information Assistant: Begich Boggs Visitor Center

Purpose: Environment for the Americas (EFTA) created its internship programs to engage the next generation of diverse youth in conservation. The program is designed to encourage youth to explore careers in natural resources, environmental conservation, interpretation, and scientific research. Interns work side-by- side with managers, educators, and biologists and are responsible for wildlife fieldwork, public outreach, and/or educational programs.

Description:
Location: Begich, Boggs Visitor Center, Portage Valley, Chugach National Forest, Alaska Number of Positions: 2 Start Date: Sunday, May 13th End Date: Sat, August 4th (if 60 days worked) Alternate End Date: Sat,, August 18th (if 70 days worked) Estimated Pay Rate: $53.00 per day worked

Basic Eligibility:
* Age 18 to 35, and in college (undergraduate or graduate) or recent graduate.
* US citizen or legal resident.
* Enthusiasm for interacting with the public and children.

Skills Required:
* Ability to communicate well with the public in both English and Spanish.
* Ability to attend a 2 week intensive training to learn and study about the Chugach National Forest.
* Ability to learn techniques to interpret information about the Chugach National Forest and Alaska to the public.
* Ability to put together interpretive programs to present to the public in a variety of venues.
* Ability to work with other visitor center staff in a fast paced, team oriented, visitor center environment.
* Ability to assist with special events and to assist with other duties as assigned.

Other Information: * A Forest Service uniform will be provided for use during the summer for each intern.
* Housing is available in the bunkhouse in Portage Valley near the visitor center.
* Interns should bring clothing for cool, wet conditions, as well as shorts and t-shirts for sunny weather.
* The closest large grocery store is in Anchorage which is 55 miles away by road.
* After a defensive driving course is successfully completed, interns can to go to town once every 2 weeks for supplies

Environment for the Americas Internship: Earth Conservation Corps WA, D.C

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Subject: Environment for the Americas Internship: Earth Conservation Corps WA, D.C

Program | Earth Conservation Corps and Environment for the Americas Member Role | Celebra las Aves Intern Member Role Focus | Outreach and In-House Programs

Work Week | Four Days a Week (Monday-Thursday) Hours | 9:00 am-5:00 pm Direct Supervisor’s Name |Managing Director Compensation | Intern will receive a monthly stipend of $1200 if a minimum of 32 hours/week are worked. Intern is also eligible for the AmeriCorps Education Award. Award amounts to $2900 towards college tuition or loans.

Program Summary
Environment for the Americas (EFTA) has an internship position in partnership with the Earth Conservation Corps.

Minimum Requirements:
* Age 18-30
* Be a US citizen or legal resident
* Have a strong interest or relevant experience in bird conservation and/or willingness to learn * Enthusiasm for interaction with the public and children required * Bilinguals skills (Spanish/English)- Helpful and preferred * Be social media savvy!

General Position Description:
The intern with the Earth Conservations Corps (ECC) will act as the coordinator of the ECC’s outreach and in-house programs.

ECC Programs include:
-Anacostia Raptor Watch
-Jr. Duck Stamp Contest coordinator to promote students in DC Public Schools to submit
duck artwork for the contest.
-Conduct water quality monitoring
-Work with the DC Department of Energy & Environment’s Green Zone Environmental
Program participant’s to assist and teach them about environmental careers and issues
while also participating in community efforts such as wetland restoration, tree plantings,
and river and park clean ups.

Other Main Tasks Include:
Organizing the International Migratory Bird Day (IMBD) event- DC Bird Fest
Social media management
Potential for boating and fishing lessons
Habitat restoration projects

marine research internship- climate change and predation monitoring

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The Marine & Environmental Research Institute (MERI) is looking to fill a Marine Research Internship II position for the 2018 field season. This is a full-­‐time position requiring a 6-­‐month commitment from June through November (flexible start date).

Job Description   
The Marine Research Intern will assist the MERI Research Department with the implementation of its marine research monitoring projects. Targeted studies looking at the effects of climate change, ocean acidification, temperature, invasive species, and predation on intertidal communities will be the top priority of this internship. Other projects may include monitoring for bacteria at local swimming beaches, early identification of harmful algal blooms, assessing marine microplastic concentrations, and assisting with response to marine mammal strandings (whales and seals) in the Downeast region. Primary responsibilities will include field sampling from land and boat, analyses in the laboratory, archiving of samples, data entry and management, and producing written reports and presentations.

Specific Duties
•       Conduct water and organism sampling both from shore and the MERI research vessel at sites in the greater Blue Hill Bay

•       Safely operate and maintain all field and lab equipment including a multiparameter YSI EXO2 Datasonde

•       Perform laboratory assays following established standard operating procedures and protocols including the occasional processing and archiving of marine mammal tissues

•       Assist with data entry and updating of laboratory records, logs, and inventories

•       Manage and analyze large water quality and multi-­‐variable data sets

•       Prepare summaries, reports, fact sheets, and assist with research presentations

•       Conduct literature searches, develop background information, and communicate and promote MERI’s research and mission to the public

•       Assist with marine mammal stranding response, including on-­‐site tissue collection and necropsies in the MERI laboratory as needed

•       Give a final presentation to MERI staff and members of the community on your research at the end of your internship

•       Assist with MERI events including the environmental lecture series and other duties relating to the organization’s goals and mission as required

Reports to: Marine Research Coordinator


Qualifications
Applicants should possess a BA or BS degree in marine biology, ecotoxicology, coastal ecology, environmental conservation, or a related major. Some field and laboratory experience and a basic knowledge of statistics and database management are required. Familiarity with environmental sampling and monitoring methods is preferred. Applicants must also be able to work outside in a variety of environmental conditions, be willing to get dirty, muddy, and wet, be hands-­‐on with a variety of organisms, be comfortable working on a marine research vessel, and be available to work occasional nights and weekends as needed. Attention to detail and the ability to work independently are a must.

Knowledge of computer software including Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel required. Proficiency in photography/film, graphics, ArcGIS, and statistics (SPSS) software is desirable. Applicant must possess a valid driver’s license and a good driving record. Only US citizens or lawful permanent residents should apply. Position requires some physical activity and applicant should be able to lift up to 40 lbs.


Time Requirements:
June -­‐ November (Flexible start) Full-­‐time (40 hours/week); additional hours to be agreed upon by employee and Director.

Compensation:
Stipend and shared housing in Blue Hill, Maine. Housing is within walking distance to the Institute. Interns are responsible for all travel expenses and food.

To Apply:
If you are interested in applying for this position, please submit a cover letter outlining your experience, career objectives, and why you are interested in an internship at MERI along with your Resume/CV and contact information for three references to:

Madelyn Woods, Marine research Coordinator, at mwoods@meriresearch.org

Indicate “Marine Research Internship II, NAME” in the subject line of your email.

MERI is an Equal Opportunity Employer

 

The Marine & Environmental Research Institute is a nonprofit scientific organization dedicated to protecting wildlife and people from the harmful impacts of toxic chemical exposure. The Institute produces scientific research that drives change and inspires solutions to the pressing environmental issues of our day. From flame retardants to plastics, our discoveries have informed the public and fueled key legislation, which impacts millions of people in Maine and across the country. Priority areas include: toxic exposure and health of marine mammal sentinels (seals and cetaceans); microplastics in the marine food web; and coastal monitoring in the Gulf of Maine. To learn more about our work, visitwww.meriresearch.org

MERI is located on the Blue Hill Peninsula in a unique coastal ecosystem bridging mid-­‐coast and “Downeast” Maine. Habitat for bald eagles, harbor seals, porpoises, and a rich variety of marine and terrestrial wildlife, the landscape is dotted with small fishing villages, boatyards and blueberry fields. Interns will spend the season studying the impacts of development, global warming, and pollution on this pristine ecosystem. 

 
 
 

Summer 2018 REU Program in Aridland Ecology at UNM Sevilleta Field Station

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SEVILLETA FIELD STATION REU SITES PROGRAM IN ARIDLAND ECOLOGY
UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO
 
The Sevilleta Field Station is seeking applicants for Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU).  Application deadline is February 23, 2018.  We are looking for 10 Biology and 2 Art Ecology REU students for the Summer of 2018. This years dates of program are May 28-August 3, 2018. This interdisciplinary REU Site Program at the Sevilleta Field Station in central New Mexico will train undergraduate students who will conduct independent research under the guidance of UNM faculty in Biology, Ecology, Civil Engineering, and Earth and Planetary Sciences, along with scientists from Federal and State agencies. The summer program includes a seminar series, a weekly journal club, an annual symposium, professional development workshops, public speaking, ethics training, field trips, and opportunities to interact with a multitude of scientists conducting research in the area. Students will conduct independent research in and around the Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge (SNWR) and present their projects at the annual symposium to be held in early August 2018. Working at the Sevilleta Field Station and SNWR site invites close interactions among students, faculty, federal scientists, and graduate students.
 
Students will have numerous opportunities to share ideas and explore issues within and across disciplines. The program’s goals are to (1) provide students with a high quality independent research experience, (2) expose students to a large, multidisciplinary research program, (3) inspire students to continue into professional careers, and (4) prepare students for the rigors of graduate school, professional research, and responsible citizenship. The program exemplifies the integration of research and education. As students conduct research, they will learn how to be independent scientists, and they will gain experience dealing with many technical, methodological and ethical issues that arise in scientific research.
 
In addition to the 10 Biology REUs, 2 Art REU students (funded through the Sevilleta LTER Program) will be selected for summer of 2018.  The goals of the selected individuals will be to observe and interpret the ecology, research, and landscape of the SNWR through the creation of artistic works (e.g., photography, painting, sculpture, videos).  These artworks will be used to cultivate the understanding among the general public about the goals of UNM and SNWR in studying, restoring, and protecting the ecology and landscapes present within the SNWR.  Final artworks will be displayed and maintained in facilities under the care of UNM.
 
The 2 Art REU projects available for 2018 are:
 
1. Research, develop, plan, and create several multimedia products for use by REU Program, Sevilleta NWR, and/or Sevilleta Field Station for outreach on social media websites.  Specifically, experience making educational videos and interest in making time lapse videos from old photography would be preferred.
 
2. Create 2D ecology-based educational materials such as: t-shirt designs and pairing visual educational outreach material with text (posters, educational field guides, fictional books, etc.).
 
Lodging and laboratory space for all REU students will be provided by the UNM Sevilleta Field Station at NO COST to the student. In addition, candidates chosen will receive a stipend of $5500 and a $500 food allowance during the 10-week summer program that will run from May 28 – August 3.  We will also refund travel costs to and from the UNM Sevilleta Field Station up to $600 (stipulations apply). Students will have access to ~$500 for materials and supplies related to their research or artistic endeavors.
 
Applications will be accepted from students at any stage of their undergraduate program (freshman to senior) and any discipline, so long as the applicant is interested in conservation biology and ecology in aridland environments. Students are not eligible if they have completed an undergraduate degree by the start of Summer 2018. We especially welcome applications from students at two and four year colleges, students early in their college career, students that are the first member of their family to attend college, non-traditional students, and students from traditionally underrepresented groups.  Students must be U.S. Citizens.
 
General requirements for participation in the Research Experiences for Undergraduates Programs in the Biological Sciences are set by the National Science Foundation. These requirements are listed below:

Applicants to the Sevilleta REU Program must be:
•   Citizens or permanent residents of the United States or its possessions (e.g., Puerto Rico).
•   Undergraduate students enrolled in a degree program (full- or part-time) leading to a Bachelor’s degree.
•   Undergraduate students who are transferring from one institution to another but are not enrolled at either institution during the intervening summer may participate.
Students are not eligible if they are:
•   Foreign nationals residing in a country other than the United States.
•   Students that have completed high school but have not yet enrolled in a degree program at an educational institution of higher learning.
•   Students that have completed an undergraduate degree and are no longer enrolled in a degree program at an educational institution of higher learning.
Requirements for the Sevilleta REU Program:
•   The Sevilleta REU Program has no additional requirements. Applications will be accepted from students at any stage of their undergraduate program (freshman to senior) and any discipline, so long as the applicant is generally interested in careers related to conservation biology and ecology.
•   We are particularly interested in applications from students that have had limited opportunities to conduct independent research at their home institution. We welcome and encourage applications from students at four year colleges, students that are the first member of their family to attend college, non-traditional students, and students from traditionally underrepresented groups.
A completed application for the Sevilleta LTER Research Experience for Undergraduates Summer Program will consist of five items:

1.    A complete online application (see below).
2.    A resume.
3.  An unofficial copy of your academic transcript. If accepted into the REU program, applicants will be required to provide an official copy before starting the program.
4.  Two letters of recommendation. These can be from faculty advisors from the student’s home institution, mentors or previous employers. Recommendations from those that are able to comment on the applicant’s academic ability, initiative, maturity, and self-motivation are preferred. Please have your respondents email your letters of recommendation to srbaker@unm.edu WITH the subject line of “2018 REU Recommendation for YOUR NAME.”
5.    A two-page essay addressing the development of the student’s interest in ecology, the specific areas of research interest, and current professional career goals. Essays can be single or double-spaced but should be in a legible font (min. 11 point) with 1 inch margins.
6.    Art REUs will also need to provide a portfolio with examples of their artwork.  This should be a powerpoint presentation or pdf and needs to be uploaded to the application.
 
Deadlines
The application form, resume, unofficial transcript, two-page essay, and letters of recommendation should be received by February 23, 2018.
Questions regarding the application procedure can be directed to the Program Manager, Stephanie Baker by e-mail. Please put REU 2018 in the subject line.
e-mail: srbaker@unm.edu
TO APPLY AND FOR MORE INFORMATION visit: https://sevilletareu.wordpress.com/

marine research internship- microplastics

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The Marine & Environmental Research Institute (MERI) is looking to fill the Marine Research Internship position for the 2018 field season. This is a full-­‐time position requiring a 6-­‐month commitment from June through November (flexible start date).
 
Job Description   
 
The Marine Research Intern will assist the MERI Research Department with the implementation of its marine research projects. Large-­‐scale projects investigating the abundance and impacts of microplastics in the marine environment will be the top priority of this internship. Other projects may include monitoring for bacteria at local swimming beaches, early identification of harmful algal blooms, tracking ocean warming and acidification, and assisting with response to marine mammal strandings (whales and harbor seals) in the Downeast region. Primary responsibilities will include field sampling from land and boat, analysis in the laboratory, archiving of samples, data entry and management, and producing written reports and presentations.
 
Specific Duties
 
•       Conduct water and tissue sample collection both from shore and the MERI research vessel at sites in the greater Blue Hill Bay  
•       Safely operate and maintain all field and lab equipment including a multiparameter YSI EXO2 Datasonde  
•       Assist with marine mammal stranding response, including on-­‐site tissue collection and necropsies in the MERI laboratory  
•       Perform laboratory assays following established standard operating procedures and protocols including the occasional processing and archiving of marine mammal tissues  
•       Assist with data entry and updating of laboratory records, logs, and inventories
•       Manage and analyze large water quality and multi-­‐variable data sets
•       Prepare summaries, reports, fact sheets, and assist with research presentations
•       Conduct literature searches, develop background information, and communicate and promote MERI’s research and mission to the public
•       Give a final presentation to MERI staff and members of the community on your research at the end of your internship
•       Assist with MERI events including the environmental lecture series and other duties relating to the organization’s goals and mission as required
 
Reports to: Marine Research Coordinator
 
Qualifications
Applicants should possess a BA or BS degree in marine biology, ecotoxicology, coastal ecology, environmental conservation, or a related major. Some field and laboratory experience and a basic knowledge of statistics and database management are required. Familiarity with environmental sampling and monitoring methods is preferred. Applicants must also be able to work outside in a variety of environmental conditions, be willing to get dirty, muddy, and wet, be hands-­‐on with a variety of organisms, be comfortable working on a marine research vessel, and be available to work occasional nights and weekends as needed. Attention to detail and the ability to work independently are a must.
 
Knowledge of computer software including Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel required. Proficiency in photography/film, graphics, ArcGIS, and statistics (SPSS) software is desirable. Applicant must possess a valid driver’s license and a good driving record. Only US citizens or lawful permanent residents should apply. Position requires some physical activity and applicant should be able to lift up to 40 lbs.
 
Time Requirements:
June -­‐ November (Flexible start) Full-­‐time (40 hours/week); additional hours to be agreed upon by employee and Director.
 
Compensation:
Stipend and shared housing in Blue Hill, Maine. Housing is within walking distance to the Institute. Interns are responsible for all travel expenses and food.
 
To Apply:
If you are interested in applying for this position, please submit a cover letter outlining your experience, career objectives, and why you are interested in an internship at MERI along with your Resume/CV and contact information for three references to:
 
Madelyn Woods, Marine research Coordinator, at mwoods@meriresearch.org
Indicate “Marine Research Internship, NAME” in the subject line of your email. Marine & Environmental Research Institute (MERI)
PO Box 1652, 55 Main Street Blue Hill, ME 04614
 
MERI is an Equal Opportunity Employer
 

The Marine & Environmental Research Institute is a nonprofit scientific organization dedicated to protecting wildlife and people from the harmful impacts of toxic chemical exposure. The Institute produces scientific research that drives change and inspires solutions to the pressing environmental issues of our day. From flame retardants to plastics, our discoveries have informed the public and fueled key legislation, which impacts millions of people in Maine and across the country. Priority areas include: toxic exposure and health of marine mammal sentinels (seals and cetaceans); microplastics in the marine food web; and coastal monitoring in the Gulf of Maine. To learn more about our work, visitwww.meriresearch.org

MERI is located on the Blue Hill Peninsula in a unique coastal ecosystem bridging mid-­‐coast and “Downeast” Maine. Habitat for bald eagles, harbor seals, porpoises, and a rich variety of marine and terrestrial wildlife, the landscape is dotted with small fishing villages, boatyards and blueberry fields. Interns will spend the season studying the impacts of development, global warming, and pollution on this pristine ecosystem.

 
 
Johanna Barrett
Executive Assistant
Marine & Environmental Research Institute
55 Main St, Blue Hill ME  04614
(207) 374-2135
 

MS or PhD available in fire, endangered species, and resilience

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Subject: MS or PhD available in fire, endangered species, and resilience

An M.S. or Ph.D. Research Assistantship is available to study population responses of the endangered American burying beetle as part of Dirac Twidwell’s research team at the University of Nebraska. Research will be conducted in the Loess Canyons Experimental Landscape, a complex landscape consisting of approximately 300,000-acres of grassland and juniper woodlands and where a series of extreme fire events are applied annually in partnership with a cooperative landowner organization. This has resulted in a spatially complex and dynamic landscape where species are responding to sudden and rapid changes in grass-tree transitions while also coping with external stressors, such as drought. These spatiotemporal shifts provide a gradient of landscape composition, pattern and change that, when combined with long-term and large-scale American burying beetle monitoring data, will be used to determine population trends across multiple spatiotemporal scales and to quantify relative differences among populations within this ecoregion.

Qualifications: Applicants should have a B.S. or M.S. degree in ecology, natural resources, entomology, wildlife science, rangeland ecology, or related field. The successful candidate will be highly motivated, passionate about scientific inquiry, possess excellent writing and communication skills, and a strong desire to communicate research in refereed scientific journals and to stakeholders. The student will be expected to produce timely data products for stakeholder use. Field sampling in relatively remote areas and in stressful environments may be necessary.

Position details: Start date is May 2018. M.S. annual stipend is $24,120 and Ph.D. is
$25,980 with full tuition waiver and standard graduate student health benefits.

Applications: Students interested in this position should send a statement of interest with research qualifications and career goals, GRE scores, your most recent transcript (unofficial is acceptable) and a CV that includes the contact information for three references. Review of applications will begin February 5 and continue until a suitable candidate is found. Please send applications to Dirac Twidwell (dirac.twidwell@unl.edu).

Two MSc positions at St. Francis Xavier University (Nova Scotia, Canada)

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Two MSc positions on Molecular Ecology of Symbioses are available in the Bishop Lab at St. Francis Xavier University (Nova Scotia, Canada), starting September 2018.
 
Deadline to apply is January 31st, 2018.
 
Our lab is primarily concerned with understanding symbioses between unicellular eukaryotes or prokaryotes and amphibian egg masses.  We are currently investigating the microbiome associated with egg masses of the yellow spotted salamander Ambystoma maculatum, which forms a well-known symbiosis with the unicellular green alga Oophila amblystomatis.  We have recently discovered the presence of other eukaryotes and prokaryotes that are held in common among egg masses from different locales in our area.  Therefore, the complexity of symbiotic partners is increasing, and requires a broader set of analyses to improve our understanding of the ecology and evolution of these symbioses.
 
MSc projects are designed to build upon existing knowledge by:
 
I. Testing whether and how the eukaryotic and prokaryotic microbiome varies (a) among different amphibian hosts by comparing existing data to samples from wood frogs, northwestern salamanders, and red-legged frogs and (b) among locales by comparing existing data from yellow spotted salamander egg masses to egg masses from other locales across the geographic range of the host.
                     
II. Investigating population growth dynamics of microbial accumulation in salamanders.
 
Students can expect to learn field collection and culture of amphibian egg masses, sampling design, techniques associated with next-generation (MiSeq) amplicon sequencing and data analysis, and, as appropriate, microbial genome sequencing and assembly.  Some travel is probable.
 
St. Francis Xavier University (StFX) is located in Antigonish, a small town in a rural setting in beautiful northeastern Nova Scotia, in the vicinity of the Northumberland Strait and Cape Breton Island.
 
Interested Canadian or international applicants should email cbishop@stfx.ca with a statement of academic experience and research interests, an unofficial transcript, and a CV.  A record of academic achievements, especially in cell and molecular biology and participation in a defined research experience (usually an Honours thesis, but others may be suitable) are required.  The Bishop Lab is committed to increasing diversity in science and cultivates a positive training space for all.
 
Dr Cory D. Bishop