Two PhD assistantships are available in Michelle Mack=92s plant and ecosystem ecology lab, Center for Ecosystem Science and Society and Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ.

I am seeking students who are interested in either (1) linking ground-based measurements of tree rings and stand dynamics to satellite indices of greening and browning in Alaska and Western Canada; or (2) understanding the impacts of fire on forest carbon dynamics in the Russian Far East.  Both positions will require substantial fieldwork, strong oral and written communication skills, and a background in plant and/or ecosystem ecology, biogeochemistry, statistics, soil science, and/or forestry.

Competitive graduate research assistantship funding and tuition waivers are available. Academically exceptional applicants may also be considered for an NAU Presidential Fellowship. For further information, please email michelle.mack@nau.edu). To be considered, please send a statement of your interest in the position, a copy of your CV, and information on your GPA and GRE scores by December 15, 2018.

The University of North Carolina Wilmington is currently recruiting for the spring 2018 cohort for our NEW DUAL DEGREE PROGRAM =96 Master of Science in Environmental Studies and Master of Public Administration program. This is the first Dual Degree Program at UNCW where successful candidates can earn two degrees in three years as opposed to four years if enrolled separately.

This degree option is specifically for students who want to bridge the communication gap between environmental science and public policy.  Potential post-graduation opportunities associated with the program include: career tracks in coastal planning and management and other environmental programs at the federal, state, or local level; careers in nonprofit organizations focused on environmental issues; and private sector jobs focused on consulting or regulatory compliance.  Our program is both challenging and rewarding, with a high degree of collegiality among students and faculty between both departments.

Students seeking admission to the dual M.S. EVS/M.P.A. degree program must complete an application for admission to both programs. Students must be successfully admitted to both degree programs, in accordance with their individual standards and requirements.

For more information, as well as a link to application materials: http://uncw.edu/evs/graduate_programs.html=20

For more information about UNCW please see: www.uncw.edu.

The deadline for spring 2018 application is November 15.  For other questions or additional information, please feel free to contact me via email below.

Best wishes.

Dr. James A. Rotenberg

Graduate Program Coordinator

email: rotenbergj@uncw.edu

The University of North Carolina Wilmington is currently recruiting for the spring 2018 cohort in the MS in Environmental Studies program. The MS EVS is an exciting, interdisciplinary curriculum focusing on linking classroom experience with hands-on fieldwork, and culminating in a semester-

long internship with an environmentally-related organization (no thesis required). Our program is both challenging and rewarding, with a high degree of collegiality among students and faculty.

MS concentrations are available in Coastal Management, Environmental Conservation and Management, Marine and Coastal Education, and Environmental Education and Interpretation. An Individualized Concentration is also available for those who wish to design their own curriculum in conjunction with faculty.

For more information, as well as a link to application materials: http://uncw.edu/evs/graduate_programs.html=20

For more information about UNCW please see: www.uncw.edu.

The deadline for spring 2018 application is November 15.  For other questions or additional information, please feel free to contact me via email below.

Best wishes,

Dr. James A. Rotenberg

Graduate Program Coordinator

email: rotenbergj@uncw.edu

The Baker Lab (http://secure-web.cisco.com/1rMk7POj9GXhH5dMhEqB9kCCvt8PtLG1di7uxizVVX9wIw-anPa7fapk7A68Wurft6HRQlukTZytB-J30QGHUFIbOhuFUMlVNMWUDRyzsYhyOKxgQmVzyLL2Tdm-fcHAeDaGoH9Hk9i5Ooq-C5WOFEymxznvq0tCusbLPLLZSCok7S6by5r7eGAYLBm2ZxEGygsfc4wYmycMMCpCZ2x9vUBsPWSRhTY_gCgVlsR7vmWU2lJgQtUXYo4NDHEv3jjGwHjp_aMHEtzgVostDn_3_IngLLVfp57HNBvvDsBLDZnySnLoQziTEP9aF0Q69BFsx3KlGmj7WSxlHski53DuLS2BNY7Qh5uWHE_yFGjTwJnB7guO5uXY-RQeobTgODZLI-Xv5542d87UNeEFEgcO8qmTXrsCsG7GA_K2p2_f5-qTJqBpAFArc5OI1aTcYPGp35X4X83laNwDdv9rFEbWaug/http%3A%2F%2Fwww.rlbakerlab.com ) in the Biology Department
at Miami University of Ohio is recruiting a highly motivated graduate
student (M.S. or Ph.D.) to study plant microevolutionary developmental
biology. Research in the Baker Lab includes work on the evolution and
development of locally adapted wildflower populations (Mimulus) and
leveraging evo-devo approaches for sustainable agriculture in crop systems
(Brassica).  Current research involves broad, interdisciplinary approaches
to understanding genotype to phenotype connections and environmental
interactions throughout organismic ontogeny from genomic, transcriptomic,
anatomic, morphological, and physiological perspectives. The research
will primarily be conducted at Miami University, but may necessitate
some extended travel for summer fieldwork.

Miami University features multiple greenhouses,
a center for bioinformatics and genomics
(http://miamioh.edu/cas/academics/centers/cbfg),
a center for advanced microscopy and imaging (CAMI;
https://miamioh.edu/cas/academics/centers/cami/), a 170
acre (69 hectare) Ecological Research Center field station
(http://miamioh.edu/cas/academics/centers/erc/), and an Institute for
Food (http://miamioh.edu/cas/academics/centers/iff/index.html),
which maintains an organic farm
(https://miamioh.edu/cas/academics/centers/iff/our-farm/index.html).

Preferred candidates will have a background in organismal
evolution. Experience with or coursework in genetics (molecular or
quantitative), genomics/bioinformatics, physiology, and/or statistical
analyses would be an asset. Students from diverse backgrounds,
and/or who participated in research preparation programs including
NSF Research Experiences for Undergrads (REU) or McNair Scholars,
are highly encouraged to apply.

Successful applicants will receive tuition waivers and at least one
year of support as research assistants (typically their second year)
and are guaranteed teaching assistantships throughout their graduate
studies (2 years total for M.S. or 6 years total for Ph.D.).

Miami University is located in Oxford <http://secure-web.cisco.com/12xZJ_E_qxC5i6ZmCBlz_VPzpGX056RTCJkeK1SI-HU5TFJGxvJYD5_SaGWJrWW9t3Z59NSLx2HSDtMXYwzCf2bxWWc9Ev73yTXKcvDqBF9foxQoivDkgs-gtKwhMK9UTDC9EfkPxv0yP_qdhXRSZPNqnrIMS9UUpWOZSuIFvCdEfpT9GlCeGAnsn01QKv3sbIZTJBrC3hXftkc1q52DFNgTPBsTgJmOKRCrT8EGHL2oqATSivLg7QuTytJ2G46Y5X5xpjCBa_cmFXrBZv0UBkUNLtI_HhKx-aN37azSYWIbKf_P0dSxz4z01f6AzBG2z4te8oewlsqpCqZFGnl_46WeuGmHVM8aYgUqRXzPnMwbhZ5g5vYNeMPISHP56DD5ic23Eg2rKe9E6aocoF1Y39V04nDt1FxxLI2SpGItAVzwJmugfuaA4d4GBn5tBDXMznr4QPf5DejxtjNE3MOn5_Q/http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cityofoxford.org%2F>,
Ohio. Oxford is approximately one hour from both Cincinnati
<http://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/cityofcincinnati/> and Dayton
<http://www.daytonohio.gov/>, and two hours from Columbus
<http://www.columbus.gov/>.  Living in Oxford and being a part of the
Miami University community will give you access to a number of exciting
opportunities such as weekly farmer’s market, summer concerts, performing
arts, sports, museums, lectures, and special events. Nearby Hueston
Woods State Park offers 3,000 acres of outdoor recreation including
hiking, fishing, canoeing, mountain biking, and fossil hunting.

Applicants should submit a personal statement, CV, 3 letters
of recommendation, GRE scores, proof English proficiency (if
applicable), and baccalaureate transcripts by January 1, 2018 via
http://miamioh.edu/graduate-school/admission/.  Interested applicants
should contact Dr. Robert Baker at robert.baker@miamioh.edu with any
questions.

For more information about graduate programs in the Biology Department,
visit:

http://miamioh.edu/cas/academics/departments/biology/academics/graduate-studies/index.html

-Rob Baker

Robert L Baker, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Department of Biology
Miami University of Ohio

I am recruiting graduate students for Fall 2018 to study the evolution and genomics of insect-microbe symbioses at the University of Hawaii.

The Chong lab uses a combination of experimental, molecular, and bioinformatic approaches to investigate the evolution and genomics of symbiosis. Research in the lab currently focuses on (1) understanding how accelerated rates of mutation accumulation in symbionts  impacts genome evolution and host fitness (2) investigating the processes that shape the evolutionary trajectory of symbiotic lineages. Our lab uses the model system for symbiosis, pea aphids and their symbiont Buchnera aphidicola, as well as other insect-symbiont systems to investigate these topics. We also use vertebrate systems to investigate additional questions related to cytonuclear interactions and genome coevolution.

Students with experience in evolution, genomics, organismal biology, and/or bioinformatics are particularly encouraged to apply.

For more information about the lab please visit: http://secure-web.cisco.com/1n11ho0JfWXj9aNGvaGM9od7OUocxe44QTptjPA8lZSC6KDW_73cbi2i4zBRBP-PCreTzc2AaN4z5Vjej6wvDN0HRW6PgWPbRXwcitxXkd-Lr3ebKwJ_VmB3VGQqtOJwwDLARncbnlIrVk0tFjTSyMoaFi2XKNDS3WwxfqgsIWRbupiHgR8WynOKZ6jmUcctR_tocYE5K0ggz-eFlRenYn6bVoSCe3akbS-MPUD-TP5K-aHG0E2WAd1tmXTb6Pr_bttuo5esbXNcrqP6MYW2uDJM5-GhmrwgggzC-hZY2V9vyCZnag-FRvCyf__GuwBeeCSYlmewgQU20teyUbTQnBhC5N6mNSSi186INGULI2HU09AjmHEK0XgRRSveUeoWuLSEPpXBjnR29M5jLSUF872Pm0ooitw68-Kupk2WcClrc_GWYG405SnZ2UgUPEaZbkKKENVmbf6jEE2k8cbBNFQ/http%3A%2F%2Fwww.chonglab.org

Prospective students are encouraged to email Becky Chong at rachong@hawaii.edu. Please include in your email a statement about 1) the research questions that you would like to pursue and how these fit in with current lab research, 2) a brief overview of your previous academic and research experiences, and 3) a CV (and GRE scores if available).

***Note: In order to apply for the program you must have taken the GRE, and applicants with a first language other than English must submit scores on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).

The deadline for application to the graduate program is December 15, 2017.
For information about graduate admissions visit: https://manoa.hawaii.edu/biology/graduate/admissions
For information about the program and department visit: https://manoa.hawaii.edu/biology/

Dr. Rebecca A. Chong
Postdoctoral Fellow
Department of Integrative Biology
University of Texas at Austin

Beginning January 2018:
Assistant Professor
Department of Biology
University of Hawaii

I am seeking students for two projects:

Trait-Based Grassland Restoration:  This Masters project will examine the legacy effects of grazing and irrigation on native grass restoration in the House Rock Valley of Northern Arizona, and will undertake restoration of degraded grassland using a trait-based approach.  This project will address both theoretical questions focused on community assembly and coexistence, and applied question on how to bolster resistance, resilience, and biodiversity in degraded and grazed grasslands.

Climate Response of Disconnected Ponderosa Pine Understory Communities: This PhD project will examine differing functional and species composition of ponderosa pine understories in Arizona, and their responses to climate manipulations.  Research will take place near Flagstaff and on the Kiabab Plateau.  There is also the potential for work examining trait-based integral projection models of key understory species.

Successful applicants will display strong communication and quantitative skills, and be able to conduct fieldwork in remote locations.  Exceptional PhD applicants will be considered for the Northern Arizona Presidential Fellowship Program.  PhD applicants must have a Masters degree to be considered at NAU.

For more information, please contact Rachel Mitchell (rachel.mitchell@nau.edu) with a subject line of Grad Recruitment and indicate either MS or PhD.  Please attach a resume/CV and your GPA and GRE scores as well as a letter of interest by November 15th (Applications are Due January 15th, 2018 for Fall 2018 consideration).

I am seeking a M.S. student to conduct research focused on community ecology, biology education, or science outreach beginning fall of 2018. The ideal candidate would already possess some experience working with K-12 students or the public, excellent written and verbal communication skills, and motivation to develop, conduct, and publish their research. Candidates should possess a B.S. degree in biology or a related discipline. The successful candidate will receive a graduate assistantship to work with new high school science and math teachers.

If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact Heather Vance-Chalcraft (vancechalcrafth@ecu.edu<mailto:vancechalcrafth@ecu.edu>). You will also need to submit a completed application to the ECU Graduate School prior to January 15th, 2018.

Dr. Heather Vance-Chalcraft

Director of Outreach, East Carolina Biodiversity Initiative

Teaching Associate Professor, Department of Biology

Faculty Fellow, Office for Faculty Excellence

East Carolina University

Greenville, NC 27858

252-328-9841 (Biology), 252-328-5429 (OFE)

330 Science and Technology Bldg (Biology), 1007 Joyner Library (OFE)

Althoff lab, Dept of Biology, Syracuse University

We are seeking exceptional students interested in studying the

evolutionary ecology of species interactions.  The lab focuses on studies

of coevolution, specialization, and speciation, and we use a combination

of diverse tools including field studies, molecular phylogenetics,

and population genetics.  Although we primarily examine plant-insect

and parasitoid-host coevolution, students interested in other taxonomic

groups are strongly encouraged to apply.   There are currently two funded

projects, one on the role of mutualism and antagonism in yucca and yucca

moth speciation and another using a synthetic yeast mutualism to study the

ecology and evolution of multi-mutualist species communities. Research is

question-driven rather than taxon-driven.  Please visit the lab webpage

at althofflab.syr.edu for more information.

Funding is guaranteed via teaching assistantships for 5 years and

potentially research assistantships.   Syracuse University offers

excellent benefits, a full tuition waiver, and a generous stipend

(~$25K for 2016).  Furthermore, the close proximity of S.U. to the

SUNY-Environmental Science and Forestry campus and Cornell makes this

a strong and vibrant community that facilitates an exciting graduate

experience.

Prospective students are encouraged to contact Dr. David Althoff

(dmalthof@syr.edu).

The Lessard (http://jeanphilippelessard.com/) and Nu=F1ez Labs

(https://sites.google.com/site/nunezm/home) are looking for graduate

students to work on a newly funded project assessing how soil microbes

influence the response of plants to climate change.  The project is funded

by a Concordia University Research Chair in Biodiversity and Ecosystem

Functioning to JP Lessard and will consist of a suite of comparative

studies conducted in the boreal forests of Canada and Argentina. The

graduate students are expected to be based at Concordia University and

conduct fieldwork in both Canada and Argentina.

Potential applicants interested in the project should have previous

experience or be willing lo learn next generation sequencing techniques in

order to characterize soil microbial communities along broad-scale

environmental gradients. Prior experience working in plant community

ecology or ecosystem ecology more generally is a plus.  Prior experience

conducting field experiments and the ability to speak French and Spanish

are good assets, but not obligatory.

Expected starting date is August 2018, but could be as early as May 2018.

The positions come with competitive stipends and cover research expenses

related to traveling between Canada and Argentina. Selected applicants are

expected to apply for external funding, participate in regular lab

meetings, attend departmental seminars, publish results in peer reviewed

journals and present their research in national and international

meetings.

Applicants should email Jean-Philippe Lessard (jp.lessard@concordia.ca).

This email should include: (i) 1-2 paragraphs describing research

interests and any relevant past experiences, (ii) a CV, and (iii) an

unofficial transcripts pertaining to your previous or ongoing studies. For

full consideration applicants should indicate their interest before

December 1st, 2017, but applications received after this date may be

considered.

We seek an energetic, motivated research technician to participate in experiments on the ecology, physiology, and genomics of switchgrass. This is an exciting opportunity to participate in integrative research studying the genetic basis of ecological processes in an important native grass species. The position will be administered through the University of Texas at Austin (www.utexas.edu<http://www.utexas.edu>) and stationed with my group at the USDA Grassland, Soil, and Water Lab (http://www.ars.usda.gov/spa/gswrl/pfay) in Temple, Texas. Visit https://tinyurl.com/y7cmbx5m for more information and to apply. Job number 171005014222.