Greetings from the Merriam-Powell Center for Environmental Research!

December 18 , 2007

Topics At A Glance

From the Dean -- Graduate Student Teaching and Research Assistantships -- Biological Science Technicians -- Research Assistantship -- GIS - Research Assistant -- Program for Eight Undergraduates -- Graduate Research Assistantship -- Mentoring Program -- PhD student assistantship -- Graduate Student Positions -- San Juan Mini-Grant Program -- Study in Africa in 2008 -- Erasmus Mundus Masters Course -- Receive a one year AAAS Membership -- Graduate Student Facilities Access Survey -- North Star Science and Technology Transmitter Grant Program -- Ecological Dimensions of Biofuels -- Arizona Central Solar Power Forum -- World Watch Magazine Survey -- JOBS

From the Dean

- VP for Research Lee Drickamer let me know - NAU's proposal to Science Foundation Arizona for graduate fellowships was funded. We've been awarded 10 fellowships to fill this spring for next year (for new students). These can be divided between PhD students in Biology and Forestry, and MS students in Engineering - we have the ability to split these however we like and however the best student applications fall out.

- You've seen some announcements about emergency drills on the north end of campus next week. It may be a little confusing - we have two very different sets of drills planned. On MONDAY, in WETTAW, there will be a multi-agency simulation of an emergency situation. People in Wettaw may be affected one way or another, and there will be vehicles, emergency responders etc etc in the vicinity of Wettaw - so those in surrounding buildings will possibly see it all happening as we walk around.

This is separate from the fire drills planned for multiple days next week in the New Science Laboratory. Again, we'll all see emergency vehicles, sirens, responders. Those of you who might possibly be thinking of setting up experiments or working in Wettaw might want to avoid Monday; those working in Building 17 will want to consult Bruce Bryant before getting started. (And hopefully most of you and your students will be off enjoying a holiday break!)
So - that's an exciting finish to the semester (not that we needed more excitement, what with leaks and all). Best wishes to everyone who is finishing up grading or other projects; and have a wonderful break and we'll see you in the New Year!

Laura Foster Huenneke, Ph.D. ,Dean, College of Engineering & Natural Sciences
Northern Arizona University , Phone (928) 523-2701

 

Graduate student teaching and research assistantships

Currently available for the MS and PhD Environmental Science degree programs at Washington State University Vancouver (WSUV). Beginning in Fall 2008 (pending final approval from the National Science Foundation), WSUV will also offer GK-12 Graduate Teaching Fellowships to graduate students enrolled in the Environmental Science graduate program. GK-12 Fellows serve as graduate teaching assistants in a middle-school science classroom for an entire academic year and stipends are very competitive ($30,000/year). All teaching/research assistantships include tuition waivers as part of their stipends. Faculty research focuses on conservation ecology and genetics, marine ecology and ceanography, environmental physics and geochemistry, animal behavior, and neuroscience. Please see our website for more information about our graduate programs:

http://www.vancouver.wsu.edu/programs/sci/mses.html

We do not accept students without a faculty advisor so please contact a faculty member in an area of research similar to your own about the potential for admission to graduate school:

WSU Vancouver is located in Washington across the Columbia River from Portland, Oregon, and is close to the Cascades, Puget Sound, and the Pacific ocean, and thus offers significant opportunities for research, a variety of neighboring institutions and agencies for collaboration, and an excellent quality of life. Degree programs are offered across all WSU campuses and students in Vancouver may participate in activities in Pullman. Priority applications are due January 10, 2008. Applications received after January 10 will be considered on a rolling basis. Please contact Brian Tissot for additional information.

Brian N. Tissot, Associate Director & Graduate Programs

Coordinator Science Programs, Washington State University Vancouver

Tissot@vancouver.wsu.edu

360.546.9611

One Ph.D. graduate student

...Is sought to conduct research on ungulate disease ecology in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Our research team works on brucellosis, helminths, viruses and chronic wasting disease in mule deer and elk using a combination of fieldwork, mathematical modeling, remote sensing and genetics. For more information contact Dr. Paul Cross prior to January 4th 2008 by email (pcross@usgs.gov). Please include a CV/resume in your initial email. http://www.nrmsc.usgs.gov/staff/cross.html

The National Park Service is seeking up to five Biological Science Technicians

...for the 2008 summer field season at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks (SEKI). Vacancies include up to four GS-5 positions ($14.21/hr) and up to one GS-6 position ($15.84/hr). Positions are in fire effects monitoring with an emphasis on vegetation and fuels sampling in a team oriented setting. The job involves 70-80% field work, installing and revisiting permanent plots to monitor changes in fuel and vegetation in various plant communities throughout the parks where prescribed burning is planned or has taken place. Fire effects work includes plant identification, establishing and sampling vegetation plots following detailed protocols, and entering and quality checking data into customized software programs. Fieldwork involves hiking to remote front country locations, and backpacking to remote areas in the backcountry in rugged terrain under possible adverse weather conditions. A portion of time will be dedicated to data entry and other duties in an office setting. Fire effects positions may participate in prescribed/wildland fires, which requires that arduous duty Red Card Certification be obtained. Estimated work dates are from mid May to mid October.

Interested applicants must apply through the USAJOBS website at http://www.usajobs.opm.gov. The announcement number is SEKI 163819. The full announcement can be found at: http://jobsearch.usajobs.gov/ftva.asp?seeker=1&JobID=65955361.

Applications must include a resume, a completed questionnaire, and a copy of your college transcripts (if you wish to be qualified based on experience and education). Read the announcement for specific details. APPLICATIONS MUST BE COMPLETED BY THE JANUARY 11, 2008 DEADLINE TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THESE POSITIONS.

For general application questions call SEKI Personnel at 559-565-3752. For specific questions about fire effects positions (serious inquiries only, please), contact Karen Webster, SEKI Lead Fire Effects Monitor, at Karen_Webster@nps.gov or Tony Caprio, SEKI Fire Ecologist, Tony_Caprio@nps.gov

Graduate Assistantships Available in Plant Ecology - Oklahoma State University

GRADUATE RESEARCH ASSISTANT/ASSOCIATE: 2 half-time graduate student assistantships; tentative starting date June 1, 2008. *Location:* Department of Natural Resource Ecology & Management, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma

Descriptions: Two graduate student research positions (Ph.D. or M.S.) are available to study rangeland ecosystem ecology. In many rangeland ecosystems, the belowground population of plant meristems (the bud bank) plays a primary role in plant population dynamics, species diversity, stability, and resistance to invasion. Our project will test hypotheses on environmental factors regulating bud bank dynamics and their ecological consequences in rangelands across the Great Plains. This research is funded through USDA collaborative funding with Kansas State University (D.C. Hartnett). In addition to stipend, benefits include tuition waiver (up to 6 hours per semester) and student health insurance.

Contact: If interested, please email a letter stating your interest in the program and a resume to: Dr. Gail Wilson, OSU Dept. of Natural Resource Ecology & Management, 008C Agricultural Hall, Stillwater OK 74078-6013, phone (405) 744-5539; e-mail gail.wilson@okstate.edu; to apply to the departmental graduate program, please visit http://nrem.okstate.edu/graduatestudents.html, Melissa Dunn , Oklahoma State University, Dept. of Natural Resource Ecology & Management , Phone (405) 744-5438. E-mail melissa.dunn@okstate.edu.

Research Assistantship (1 or 2 available at MS level)

Fresno River Watershed Assessment (Madera County, CA)
One or two MS-level research assistantships are available starting in the summer or fall 2008 at California State University-Fresno (Fresno State). Students will participate in a collaborative project with the goal of using past and current stream monitoring to identify watershed functions and processes that are most compromised by current watershed activities and most at risk with future development.

Priorities for a student thesis within the project include bioassessment using macroinvertebrates or microbial indicators of septic infiltration, but other theses based on hydrology and/or water chemistry within a watershed context may be considered. Assistantship duties will include supervising stream sampling field crews and laboratory processing of macroinvertebrate samples in addition to the thesis.

Successful applicants should demonstrate evidence of being able to work collaboratively, but also independently, as well as the ability to effectively supervise undergraduate technicians. Experience with data analysis including multivariate techniques is desirable. Presentations at conferences and publication is expected. Depending on the number of students on the project, one or two years of support of at least $15,000 is available. The assistantships will be largely supported through a research grant, but may also include a teaching assistantship and internal support.
Fresno is a relatively affordable area in central California at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Yosemite National Park is 50mi north of Fresno, and of two other national parks are within 1.5hrs drive. Monterey (on the coast) is approximately 2.5hrs west.

To apply, send an e-mail message (and attachments) describing research interests and career goals; names, phone numbers, and email addresses of 3 references; academic history and GRE scores to Dr. Steve Blumenshine: sblumens@csufresno.edu; Phone: 559-278-8770; Address: Biology Dept. M/S SB73, CSU-Fresno, Fresno, CA 93740.

GIS - Research Assistant (San Francisco, CA)

Founded in 1935, The Wilderness Society is a national, non-profit conservation organization dedicated to preserving wilderness and wildlife and protecting America's prime forests, parks, rivers, deserts and shorelines. Our goal is to ensure that future generations will enjoy the clean air and water, wildlife, beauty, and opportunities for recreation and renewal that wild places provide. We seek a dedicated and enthusiastic GIS - Research Assistant to assist with spatial analyses in the California/Nevada Regional Office during the spring of 2008.

Research Assistant Duties - The GIS - Research Assistant will help to investigate, program and implement spatial analyses to support The Wilderness Society's research on transportation management in California National Forests. Specifically, the Research Assistant will assist the Landscape Ecologist to: Assemble and edit GIS datasets for public lands in California, Research and evaluate spatial models and software packages for modeling acoustic disturbances around transportation networks, Adapt an existing program, or develop a new program, to implement a spatial model of acoustic disturbances from motorized recreation in forest landscapes, Apply the acoustic model to evaluate transportation planning alternatives for one California National Forest, Summarize model results for reports and publications; create maps for presentations, posters and other communication needs, Work as part of the California/Nevada Regional Office team.

Qualifications and Experience - We are seeking a GIS professional, graduate-level or advanced undergraduate student pursuing a degree in a relevant field (e.g., Geography, GIS, Environmental Studies, Ecology, Natural Resource Management, etc.) for this position. Ideally, the GIS -- Research Assistant will possess the following qualifications:

• A minimum of three years of coursework and/or professional experience working with ArcGIS 9.x and related Extensions (e.g., Spatial Analyst)
• Experience programming custom ArcGIS geoprocessing tools using ModelBuilder and/or ESRI scripting languages (e.g., Python, VB)
• Familiarity with other spatial analysis or quantitative modeling software (e.g., Matlab, Fragstats),
• Knowledge of California ecosystems, geography, public lands, and spatial databases
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Attention to detail and ability to work independently
• Access to ArcGIS software and extensions is desirable, but not required.

The Research Assistant position will provide a rich and challenging opportunity to work with environmental professionals, develop further GIS and spatial analysis skills, and gain a greater understanding of ecology and conservation in California.

We anticipate that the project will run from January - June, 2008. The GIS - Research Assistant will be a part-time (10 - 20 hours per week), contract position. Specific hours and days of the week are negotiable, and we are willing to work with academic institutions to arrange course credit if needed.

To apply, please send a cover letter, resume and the names and contact information of three references by email (in MS Word or pdf format) to: sarah_reed@tws.org.

Review of applications will begin on January 7, 2008, and continue until the position is filled. For more information on The Wilderness Society and our California campaigns, please visit our web site: http://www.wilderness.org/California Posted December 11, 2007

 

The Chicago Botanic Garden and Northwestern University

...offer a program for eight undergraduate students to collaborate with scientists conducting ecological and evolutionary research for 10 weeks during the summer of 2008 (26th May - 1st August). Each student will participate in an on going study with a researcher from the Chicago Botanic Garden or nearby institution. Responsibilities generally include field sampling, laboratory studies, data analysis and scientific writing. In addition, students attend seminars and workshops on research, career planning, ecological ethics, and graduate school preparation. At the end of the summer, students will develop their research results, prepare an abstract, and present their findings at a student research symposium. The Chicago Botanic Garden research focuses on: plant conservation (ex-situ, in-situ), molecular and conservation genetics, demographics, evolution, restoration, and the effects of natural and human disturbances on ecosystems including global warming, forest harvesting, and invasive organisms. Researchers come from many disciplines and specific projects center on population and community ecology, genetics, evolution, land-use history, aquatic ecology, biogeochemistry, horticulture, and atmosphere- biosphere exchanges. Visit the REU website (http://labs.corpus-callosum.com/cbg) for summer 2008 project listings, researchers, application form, and application process. compensation: Students are paid a stipend for the 10-week session. Housing, subsistence, and travel costs are also provided as part of the program. Applications are due March 14, 2008.

Graduate Research Assistantship in Plant Physiological Ecology Biology Department, University of New Mexico

Funding is available to support one Ph.D. student interested in studying leaf and cell level physiology/biochemistry and how it impacts estimates of ecosystem, regional, and global carbon cycles. This work is part of a newly funded NSF grant on "Light enhanced 13C enrichment of dark respired CO2: Implications for leaf internal CO2 conductance and respiration in the light". Research will involve high-frequency online gas exchange analyses of isotopic fractionation by photosynthesis and respiration using a revolutionary new instrument, the Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectrometer, and involve analyses of the isotopic composition of leaf metabolites. Exact projects will be determined according to student interest. Study organisms include poplar, juniper, and tobacco.

As par of his/her degree program, the student will have the opportunity to work with co-PI's Dr. Nate McDowell at Los Alamos National Laboratory and Dr. Todd Rosenstiel at Portland State University, in addition to interacting with collaborators in France (Dr. Guillaume Tcherkez, University of Paris-SUD) and New Zealand (Dr. Margaret Barbour, Landcare Research).

Students with backgrounds in biology, chemistry and/or physics, and an interest the fields of physiological ecology, ecosystem ecology and environmental science are encouraged to apply. However, any highly motivated students with variable levels of experience will be considered. Women and minority students are also encouraged to apply. Offer of graduate assistantship will be contingent upon acceptance into the University of New Mexico Biology Department Ph.D. program. The application deadline is January 15th, 2008 for admission in Summer/Fall 2008. UNM Biology Graduate Application Information can be found at: http://biology.unm.edu/graduate/application.html

IF YOU ARE INTERESTED: Send an e-mail to:Dr. David Hanson (dthanson@unm.edu) University of New Mexico

 

Conservation and Land Management Mentoring Program

Five paid botany fellowship positions are available for recent graduates. Compensation is $750 per two week pay period. The fellowships are 5 months in length. Location: California Desert BLM District Office, Moreno Valley
Job Description: 1. Species familiarity: Knowledge of plant families, genera, and species is most important for these positions. Introduction to desert plant species will be provided by the mentor, but autonomy in plant identification in the field will be essential, since the mentor will not be able to accompany interns at all times. Other species (e.g. bird, reptile) familiarity will be beneficial, but is not required. Many non-plant sensitive and listed species occur in the project areas. Three-fifths of the fellowship will be seed collection for restoration and conservation (depending on precipitation). In the event spring blooms are less than normal, alternative projects will be available and could include some lizard or tortoise monitoring. 2. Fieldwork experience: Basic seed collection experience is preferred, but not required. Candidates with botanical knowledge and experience will be easy to train on seed collection techniques, locating seed sources, estimating probable seed viability, and timing of species flowering and subsequent seeding. Vegetation monitoring will include combinations of transect, quadrat, and point-line intersect protocols. Experience in or knowledge of these techniques is strongly desired. In addition to these two main activities, opportunities may arise for invasive species eradication experimental plots. In this case, involvement will depend on fellows' experience, desire, and any other constraints. The spring weather in the desert can be very cold and extremely windy, often causing sleepless nights and difficult work days. The end of fellowship may be extremely hot and could reach temperatures between 110 and 120 degrees Fahrenheit. 3. Geographic Information Systems: GPS (Global Positioning System) dataloggers will be used for navigation and data collection. Any previous GPS experience is preferred, but not required. Mentor will provide fellows with basic GPS training. GIS is above and beyond the requirements for these positions, but for an fellow with a desire to work in GIS, the opportunity exists within the fellowship.

Background: The Seeds of Success (SOS) program operates through the Plant Conservation Alliance, an interagency program in which BLM and Chicago Botanic Garden (CBG) participates. The SOS program serves two purposes. SOS is the United States' contribution to the Royal Botanic Garden KEW (England) Millennium Seed Bank project under which seed from approximately 10% of the world's flora are to be collected for long-term germplasm storage and conservation research. Secondly, approximately half of the seed collected by BLM is returned for storage in the U.S. to support development of plant materials for restoration and conservation purposes by BLM and other entities.
Opportunities exist to continue work overseas (Australia and/or UK) in seed biology or other botany related fields. In addition, a Masters program in Plant Biology and Conservation with Northwestern University is also available for suitably qualified post fellowship candidates.

To Apply: Send a Letter of Interest and Resume to Lara Jefferson, ljefferson@chicagobotanic.org

PhD student assistantship

A doctoral graduate student is sought to join an interdisciplinary project that integrates GIScience, landscape ecology, and human socioeconomics for studying wildlife habitat and human dynamics. This project is supported by NSF Partnerships for International Research and Education (PIRE) program. It will examine how micro-level changes in the human or environment subsystems would interact with the emergent patterns in the coupled human-nature system in the Royal Chitwan National Park in Nepal.

Using micro-level population and remote sensing data, this project will take a complex-systems approach to examine human-environment interactions over time and space. Specifically, the student is expected to develop, evaluate, and use an agent-based model to simulate the macro-level landscape and habitat consequences of micro-level changes in the environment, human demography, and socioeconomic/cultural context.

The ABM will incorporate multidisciplinary information (e.g., vegetation, wildlife, individual people's decisions) at multiple scales, answering many scientifically significant and practically important questions. The student will have opportunities to visit and conduct fieldwork in Chitwan, Nepal and potentially in Wolong Nature Reserve, China.
Applicants should have strong interests in computer modeling, geography (especially GIScience), landscape ecology, and forest /wildlife ecology. Strong quantitative and modeling skills (e.g., computer modeling, statistics, geographic information systems, and/or remote sensing) and programming experiences (e.g., C++, Java, or python) are desirable. Salaries and benefits are competitive. The ideal starting date will be the 08 fall semester (specifics negotiable).

Applicants should visit the SDSU Geography departmental website regarding our SDSU-UCSB joint doctoral program at http://geography.sdsu.edu/Programs/phd.html, and follow the instructions there. For specific information about the project, please contact Dr. Li An at lan@mail.sdsu.edu. In addition to following the Department's application procedure, interested individuals may send the following materials to Dr. An (see the contact information below): (1) cover letter including general and specific research interests/experiences, (2) statement of professional goals (e.g., plans after finishing the training), (3) resume, (4) transcripts, (5) at least three references including names, email addresses, phone numbers, and postal addresses, and (6) GRE scores and TOEFL scores (for international applicants only whose native language is not English). Scanned copies or photocopies of transcripts and GRE/TOEFL scores are acceptable initially. Dr. An's contact information: Dr. L. An, Department of Geography, San Diego State University, Office: Storm Hall 315, Phone: (619) 594-5932; email: lan@mail.sdsu.edu

Web: http://geography.sdsu.edu/People/Faculty/an.html

GRADUATE STUDENT POSITIONS IN ECOLOGY & EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY

University of California Los Angeles, Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology

The graduate program in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at UCLA invites applications from prospective Ph.D. and Masters students. Graduate students in our department conduct research all over the world on a wide range of organisms and have full access to the outstanding facilities and resources that the University of California offers. Generous 5-year support packages are provided to all incoming PhD students.

Areas of specialization within the department include behavioral ecology, conservation biology, ecology, evolutionary biology, marine biology, paleobiology, plant biology, physiological ecology, and tropical biology. Our department includes 25 regular faculty with a broad range of research interests and expertise. For a complete list of faculty and their research interests, see our website at http://www.eeb.ucla.edu/faculty.php

The official application deadline for fall 2008 admission is Dec 15, 2008, but applications received by Dec 31, 2007 will still be given full consideration. To apply, go to: http://www.eeb.ucla.edu/grad_onlineappl.php

San Juan Mini-Grant Program - Offered by the Mountain Studies Institute

For projects with field work in the San Juan Mountain region of southwestern CO and Northwestern NM, USA. Open to undergraduates, graduate students, and recent graduates. Application Deadline: March 14, 2008. For full instructions, go to: www.mountainstudies.org/Research/miniGrant.htm

Questions? Contact Koren Nydick, koren@mountainstudies.org, 970-247-7071.

 

Study in Africa in 2008

Conservation and Biodiversity in South African Parks and Nature Reserves. May 10 to June 5, 2008

Have you always wanted to go to Africa? To see, study, and explore the rich diversity of wildlife and natural resources? Here's an amazing opportunity to do just that!

In Summer 2008, the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, through the Office of Study Abroad, at Michigan State University will be making it's 4th, 4-week excursion to South Africa, to explore the Conservation and Biodiversity of their Parks and Nature Reserves. We'll tour various parks and nature reserves throughout South Africa, including Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Kruger National Park, Manyeleti Nature Reserve, Pilanesberg Game Reserve, Kalahari Transfrontier Park, De Hoop Nature Reserve, Agulhas National Park, Boulders African Penguin colony, Cape of Good Hope, Table Mountain National Park and Robben Island.

At a time when natural resource managers are asked to consider global contexts of biodiversity and ecosystem approaches to management, this course will expose students to various South African ecosystems and will broaden students' scope of management by taking into account the impacts that land-based activities and international policies have on the natural communities in these ecosystems. The role of game reserves, nature reserves, and national parks as management tools will be investigated and students will be introduced to social issues that are encountered when protection of biodiversity restrictions are imposed on a society. We will also address the role of hunting as a management tool of big game species on private game reserves and the impact of hunting on the surrounding communities.

Students will familiarize themselves with the flora and fauna of the different ecosystems visited; will interact with government officials and land managers; and will participate in hands-on learning, including bushwalks, habitat sampling, population surveys and other field experiments.

This program is perfectly suited for undergraduate students studying ecology, natural resources, and wildlife biology, ecology and/or management. We can take a maximum of 12 students. Preference is for Wildlife/Natural Resource type students with an ecology background, but students from other biological majors that are passionate and excited about exploring South African wildlife and natural resources are also encouraged to apply.

Each student participating in this programs enrolls in 6 credits of FW 480 - International Studies in Fisheries and Wildlife at MSU. While this is a Michigan State University program, students from non-MSU colleges and universities are welcome and encouraged to apply. Over the past 3 summers students from Ball State University, Central Michigan University, Paul Smith's College, University of Tennessee, and the University of Vermont have participated in this program. Non-MSU students enroll as Lifelong Education students and tuition rates are equal to, and even slightly cheaper than, those of in-state MSU students. Students also must pay a program fee (approximately $3, 800), which covers almost everything (transportation, lodging, field trips, park fees, and most meals) while you're in country, and their airline ticket (approximately $1,400). While it sounds like a lot of money, for everything you get to see and do for 4 weeks in Africa, it's truly a bargain. It's truly a life altering experience. Join Us!!

See the following OSA website for some additional information - http://studyabroad.msu.edu/programs/safricacon.html

E-Mail me (schne181@msu.edu) if you'd be interested in receiving a program brochure, as well as a PDF of our information meeting presentation. Don't wait to apply. We've already accepted 6 of a possible 12 students, and expect to be full by February 2008. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions or want more details. Jim Schneider, schne181@msu.edu

Erasmus Mundus Masters Course

We are pleased to inform you that our institution is coordinating a new Erasmus Mundus Masters Course, called "EMAE - European Master in Applied Ecology". This programme was selected in October 2007 by the European Union and offers an integrated study programme over two years shared between 4 universities in Europe: Université de Poitiers (France), Universidade de Coimbra (Portugal), Christian-Albrechts-Universität in Kiel (Germany) and University of East Anglia in Norwich (UK).

The first year combines basic knowledge, skills and field training in various topics in Ecology, with compulsory mobility between 3 institutions in the consortium. The second year corresponds to an elective specialization offered by each partner: "Applied and evolutionary ecology" (Poitiers), "Environmental quality and Ecotoxicology" (Coimbra), "Advanced functional studies in ecosystems" (Kiel) and "Environmental sciences & Conservation" in Norwich.

The European Union is funding this programme with confortable grants for non-European students applying for the Masters Course (21000 Euros per year) and also offers mobility grants for non-European researchers (4000 Euros per month, for collaborative research and teaching). We have also developed partnerships with 5 others institutions outside Europe (in New Zealand, Australia, USA, Brazil and Ecuador) in order to have the opportunity to fund European EMAE students during their Master's project abroad.

Could you please distribute this information to your students and your colleagues? The study programme will start in September 2008 but the deadline for application is 31st January 2008. Application guidelines and further information can be found on our website at http://www.master-emae.org. You can also download the synopsis and the flyer of the EMAE Masters Course. The EMAE staff can be contacted directly at contact@master-emae.org.

Thanks a lot in advance for your contribution to the promotion of EMAE! Best regards, Dr Yves Caubet, EMAE Coordinator , UMR CNRS 6556 Poitiers, France EMAE - European Master in Applied Ecology (Erasmus Mundus Masters Course) email: contact@master-emae.org, website: http://www.master-emae.org. Pr. D. Bouchon, Universite de Poitiers, Genetique et Biologie des Populations de Crustaces, tel : +33 (0)5 49 45 38 95,

http://ecoevol.labo.univ-poitiers.fr/

http://pbil.univ-lyon1.fr/endosymbart/

didier.bouchon@univ-poitiers.fr

Please respond to this withany names of students / postdocs whom you would like to receive a one year AAAS Membership with a one year subscription to Science

Just a reminder...please send us your nominations by 19-Dec-07.

In support of the AAAS/Science Program for Excellence in Science, several corporations are sponsoring a limited number of one-year AAAS/Science memberships for graduate students, medical students, and postdocs working in the life sciences. We would like your help in identifying deserving individuals.

Those selected for recognition will receive a full membership in AAAS (The American Association for the Advancement of Science) and a one-year subscription to the weekly journal Science at no charge. International nominees will receive Science Digital Edition.

You may nominate as many as 45 to 50 individuals (or more if appropriate) by simply sending us their names and e-mail addresses by 19-Dec-07. Would you please copy your nominees on the e-mail you send back to us so they know they've been nominated and will be expecting to hear from us? This program is open to individuals who are not current AAAS members/Science subscribers.

Nominees will be contacted and invited to participate in the AAAS/Science Program for Excellence in Science. Those who are ultimately selected will join more than 136,000 AAAS members and Science subscribers in the world's largest multidisciplinary science organization.

If you have any questions, please e-mail Gail Kolanowski at gkolanow@aaas.org or call 810-736-0013. Thank you for becoming part of the AAAS/Science Program for Excellence in Science. Donald Kennedy, Editor-in-Chief , Science Magazine AAAS/Science Program for Excellence in Science

AAAS is at the forefront of scientific discovery and on the frontline of scientific advancement, promoting sound science policy, improved science education, and international cooperation among scientists through its various programs and member participation. The Excellence in Science program is intended to enhance the educational experience and laboratory performance of researchers by providing them with links to leading scientific resources as well as connections to colleagues worldwide. The journal Science publishes breaking news and seminal research in 51 issues each year.

GRADUATE STUDENT FACILITIES ACCESS SURVEY

Name of your Institution:
Department Name:
1. Does your department have a graduate program?
2. Do graduate students have 24 hour free access to research facilities (e.g. through key or other system held by the student)?
3. If your department uses this option, do you require that there is someone else in the building for safety reasons (e.g. buddy system)?
4. Do graduate students have 24 hour access to facilities through an intermediary (e.g. doorman/security officer etc.)?
5. Do graduate students have free access to research facilities during restricted period of day only (some period of time the facilities are inaccessible to students e.g. nights, holidays, etc.) with or without an intermediary?
6. Do graduate students not have any free access to facilities at any time?
7. Does access by graduate students differ according to their status (e.g. teaching assistants or other "employed" students vs. "non-employed" graduate students)?
PLEASE RETURN THIS SURVEY TO Carla Serfas at cvitale@alumni.nmu.edu

THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP! Dr. Jill B.K. Leonard, Biology Department, Northern Michigan University p: 906-227-1619, http://faculty.nmu.edu/jileonar/

 

NORTH STAR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY TRANSMITTER GRANT PROGRAM

North Star Science and Technology, LLC and American Bird Conservancy announce the 6^th annual North Star Science and Technology Transmitter Grant Program. In the spirit of giving back to the research community that they serve, North Star will award a total of eight (8) satellite transmitters (Argos Platform Transmitter Terminals (PTTs)), to one or two recipients (8 PTTs to one project or 4 PTTs to each of two projects). PTTs are powerful, cutting-edge tools for the study of bird migration that greatly extend the range over which individual birds can be tracked. The program is open to projects throughout the world. Research that contributes to our knowledge of avian biology and that provides data useful for bird conservation, particularly of threatened species, will receive preference in the selection process.

American Bird Conservancy (http://www.abcbirds.org) will handle the proposal submission process, review proposals, and select the winning projects. Please see http://www.northstarst.com for more information and proposal guidelines. Deadline for proposals is February 4, 2008. Any further questions about the program can be directed to George E. Wallace, American Bird Conservancy (EM: gwallace@abcbirds.org; PH: 540-253-5780

Conference on the Ecological Dimensions of Biofuels

Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center, Washington, D.C., March 10, 2008
Registration is now open for the Conference on the Ecological Dimensions of Biofuels! Visit http://esa.org/biofuels to sign up early. Space is limited to the first 500 registrants.

On March 10, 2008, The Ecological Society of America will host a one-day conference on the Ecological Dimensions of Biofuels. 500 attendees will have the opportunity to hear invited presentations by leading scientists on: - sustainable development and use of biofuels; - social, biogeographic, land use, and biodiversity considerations; and, - ecological dimensions of alternatives for crop selection and production, harvest and transport of product to refinery, and refining of liquid fuels and other co-products.

A keynote address will be delivered by Dr. Jose Goldemberg, Co-President of the Global Energy Assessment (GEA) Council and Professor at the Universidade de Sao Paulo. Goldemberg recently served as Secretary for the Environment of the State of Sao Paulo, Brazil, and was a lead author of the World Energy Assessment.
The conference will conclude with an evening social featuring additional poster presentations and opportunities for attendees to network with presenters and others working in this important field.

Full details, including an agenda, confirmed speakers, registration information, and sponsorship opportunities, are available at http://esa.org/biofuels.

 

Arizona Central Solar Power Forum

Join us for a one-day event to learn about the future of utility-scale solar power in Arizona. January 10, 2008, Hyatt Regency, Phoenix, Arizona

The Central Solar Power (CSP) Forum is Arizona's first-ever conference on commercial-scale solar power technology. Attendees at the forum will learn about the economic costs and benefits of CSP development, potential locations and infrastructure needed to support projects, and technology options such as solar trough, power tower and more.

CSP plants are expected to be built in the Arizona desert in the next five years. Hear from local and industry experts on how this technology can help meet our growing energy needs while providing large economic investment in the state. This is the place to be to learn all you need to know about central solar power!

Register before the holidays to secure your space! Early registration (before December 27, 2007) is only $70.00. After that date, registration is $95.00.

To view the program, speakers and registration page go to: http://solar.nau.edu/csp/index.html
Title Sponsor: Arizona Public Service Company

Contributing Sponsors: Northern Arizona University, Arizona Department of Commerce Energy Office, Abengoa Solar, BrightSource Energy, Grand Canyon Trust, Interwest Energy Alliance Meeting Facilitator: Ormond Group LLC

 

World Watch Magazine Survey

In an attempt to better serve our student readers, we have created a short survey about World Watch magazine and included it with this month's announcement. To show our appreciation, we will give one lucky participant a $25 Amazon gift card. The deadline to participate in this survey and be eligible for the Amazon gift card is Wednesday, December 19, 2007. Take our World Watch Magazine Survey and enter to win a $25 Amazon gift card http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=djuJeeyTS_2faGK6wkL6P2zQ_3d_3d Thank you for helping us make World Watch even better! We hope you enjoy the latest issue. Access the PDF of the current issue here: World Watch January/February 2008 http://www.worldwatch.org/press/prerelease/EP211.pdf

Please Note: We are providing this free subscription for educational use only. Non-academic distribution is prohibited. The Worldwatch Institute relies on the sale of our magazine and other publications to support our operations. Please visit our website at: www.worldwatch.org. To receive news and special alerts from the Worldwatch Institute, sign up for our E-Newsletter. http://www.worldwatch.org/user/registerJulia A. Tier | Worldwatch Institute | 202-452-1992 ext. 594 | www.worldwatch.org

 

JOBS -- JOBS -- JOBS

USEPA POSTDOCTORAL POSITION

The National Center for Environmental Assessment (NCEA) within the U.S. EPA Office of Research and Development (ORD) seeks immediate applications for a postdoctoral position in ecology to assist with the development of the knowledge base and decision-support tools to enable environmental managers to determine the probable causes of biological impairments in aquatic systems.

NCEA is developing methods for deriving, and synthesizing information on the relationships between sources, stressors and biological resources to support causal and risk assessments. This work requires knowledge of aquatic biological assemblages, the methods used to assess their biological condition, the anthropogenic stressors that impact their quality, and the statistical techniques for quantifying the relationships between stressors and effects. The successful applicant will be part of a vibrant team that provides web-based tools to help environmental managers identify the probable causes of biological impairments. Our progress to date can be viewed at www.epa.gov/caddis.

This post-doctoral position is a three-year, federal government appointment located in Washington, D.C. The salary range is approximately $50,000 to $70,000 commensurate with qualifications. Selected candidates receive a full benefits package, including health insurance, life insurance, retirement, and vacation and sick leave. Relocation expenses are authorized for this position.

Applicants with doctoral degrees in ecology, biology, environmental science, or a related discipline are encouraged to apply. Typically, post-doctoral positions will be awarded to candidates who have held their doctorate less than five years at the time of application; however, candidates who have held their doctorate for more than five years may also apply. Employment opportunities are open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents. Only in the absence of qualified U.S. citizens will permanent residents who are citizens of countries specified as exceptions to the appropriations act ban on paying non-U.S. citizens be considered. For more information on Federal employment of non-citizens, go to http://www.opm.gov/employ/html/citizen.htm.

To apply for these post-doctoral positions, please send the following to Ms. Dorothy Carr: A curriculum vitae; Letter of recommendation from your senior research advisor or other comparable official; two additional references, and; Cover letter indicating your research interests, country of citizenship, U.S. citizenship status (citizen or permanent resident) and email address. If you are claiming veterans preference, please include your DD-214 with your application package.

All application materials must be received or postmarked by 1/29/2008.Any application mailed in U.S. government postage-paid envelopes will not receive consideration. To submit your application, email your application materials to ordpostdocapps@epa.gov. Include NCEA Post-Doctoral Program in the subject line. Applications sent via email must be submitted in a format readable by this office, such as MS Word, portable document format (PDF), rich text format (RTF), or plain text. Use of any format we cannot read may invalidate your application. Note âEUR" online applications from journal websites will not be accepted. OR Mail your application materials to: U.S. EPA HRMD (C639-02) Attn: Ms. Dorothy Carr, NCEA Post-Doctoral Program
Research Triangle Park, NC 27711

If you have questions, contact Ms. Dorothy Carr at (800) 433-9633 or via email to ordpostdocapps@epa.gov. EPA provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please notify the Agency. The decision on granting reasonable accommodation will be on a case by case basis. The U.S. EPA is an Equal Opportunity Employer

POSITION DESCRIPTION - USDA/APHIS/WS - NATIONAL WILDLIFE RESEARCH CENTER - BIOLOGIST *(APHIS Science Fellow) -- GS-11 0401

INTRODUCTION - This is a 2-year term position located at the National Wildlife Research Center (NWRC), Fort Collins, CO. This position is funded under the APHIS Science Fellowship Program and is under the Wildlife Disease Research Program of the NWRC, which is responsible for research into wildlife disease issues relating to agricultural and human health and safety. The coordination of the employee's activities will be the responsibility of a Project Leader.

The incumbent will develop spatially explicit risk assessment models for avian influenza near poultry production operations. Specifically, the incumbent will assess the potential role that peridomestic and other wildlife have as reservoirs and hosts; and the role these wildlife species have in carriage, transmission, movement, and environmental contamination. The incumbent will collaborate with, and assist, other scientists under the research project: Wildlife Diseases: Surveillance, Monitoring and Research. The goal of the project is to study the ecology of wildlife diseases; assess the risk of viral and bacterial disease transmission among wildlife, domestic animals, and humans; and develop methods that reduce or eliminate such transmission.

MAJOR DUTIES The incumbent will have major involvement with the development of spatially explicit risk assessment models and simulations on avian influenza. Responsibilities will include employing expertise in geographical information systems, spatial statistics, and simulation modeling. The objective is to develop a risk assessment that wildlife pose in transmission and site contamination of avian influenza near poultry and waterfowl production facilities. The incumbent is expected to prepare management simulation models, reports, technical public seminars, and peer-reviewed publications.

In addition, the incumbent will perform the following duties:. With minimal supervision, perform a variety of technical spatial analyses and interpretations, including, but not restricted to use of higher level spatial statistics, use of geographical information system software, computer coding, and simulation analysis. The approach may be analytical, statistical, or agent-based.

With minimal supervision, comply with Biosafety and Biosecurity Procedures, Good Laboratory Practices, Animal Welfare Act, Endangered Species Act, National Environmental Policy Act, and applicable state and federal wildlife laws and regulations.

Supervise other personnel (e.g. subordinates, temporaries, volunteers, students, etc.) as necessary, particularly when conducting routine laboratory work. Procure equipment and supplies necessary to conduct research. Operate government-owned or leased vehicles.

Prepare brief technical reports describing study progress and contribute to technical publications describing experimental procedures and results. Perform other related duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION

Professional knowledge of principles and techniques of animal biology, disease ecology, geographical information systems, computer coding, spatial statistics, and simulation modeling as they relate to population health and management; knowledge of the research process and the scientific method as well as of collecting, recording, tabulating, analyzing, and reporting biological data. Ability and knowledge to work safely in office and field environments. Expertise in use of computer platforms, i.e., analytical software and specialized scientific programming. Expertise in the use of computers, and working knowledge of relational database, spreadsheet, graphic, and statistical software and applications. Data interpretation and technical writing skills. Knowledge of regulations and directives associated with Biosecurity and Biosafety Procedures, Standard Operating Procedures, Animal Welfare Act, Good Laboratory Practices, and Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee, and ability to adhere them. Knowledge of proper handling and care of animals. Ability to operate government vehicles. Ability to work and cooperate with federal, state, and private industry cooperators.

QUALIFICATIONS: Desired minimum education: PhD (preferred) in wildlife, ecology, biology, animal sciences or similar, or DVM.
SALARY: $56,378/yr
BENEFITS: health insurance, retirement, paid leave and federal holidays. USDA/NWRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
APPLICATION: To apply, please email cover letter, CV, and 3 references to Dr. Susan Shriner (susan.a.shriner@aphis.usda.gov). Review of applications will begin immediately but applications will be accepted through January 31, 2008.

 

PART-TIME INSTRUCTOR

The School of Life Sciences and the Division of Educational Outreach at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) invite applications for a part-time instructor to teach in the UNLV GS-0401 Educational Program (see http://ifpm.nifc.gov/faq/general.htm). Students are federal wildland fire management personnel from various states in the western US, who enroll in eight intensive two-week courses over a 14-month period. Courses include Fundamentals of Life Science, Principles of Modern Biology II, Principles of Ecology, Plant Ecology, Field Ecology, Conservation Biology, Biogeography, and Ecosystem Management.

We seek a candidate to teach Biogeography sometime during April 2008. The two-week class will be held 9am-5pm, Monday through Friday. Due to the intensive nature of this course, a variety of course activities are encouraged, including lectures, labs and field trips. Candidates must hold a Masters degree in biology or a closely related discipline; a Ph.D. is preferred. Prior teaching experience is necessary and experience working with federal land agencies is preferred. Stipend for teaching the course is $5500.

Applications should include a curriculum vitae, a statement of teaching philosophy relevant to the GS-0401 Educational Program, a brief statement summarizing the candidate's research interests, and contact information for three professional references (at least two of which are previous supervisors). Send applications to Dr. Beth Newingham, School of Life Sciences, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV 89154-4004 or e-mail to newingha@unlv.nevada.edu. Review of application materials will begin on December 14, 2007 and continue until the position is filled. For further information, please contact Dr. Newingham. UNLV is an equal opportunity/Affirmative Action educator and employer committed to excellence through diversity.

Water Resources Specialist IV

$45,860-$73,779

This position is responsible for providing high-level assistance with implementing statewide drought planning and preparedness efforts under the direction of the Drought Planning Manager. This position will interact with federal, state and local governments as well as public water system providers and the general public to coordinate statewide drought planning efforts associated with the Operational Drought Preparedness Plan established by the Governor's Drought Task Force and by the Legislative requirements established pursuant to House Bill 2277. Presents program information at public meetings and conferences as appropriate. Develops public guidance documents and other information/materials to keep public informed of drought issues and reporting requirements. Assists with creating and maintaining adequate statewide drought monitoring tools (e.g. web based reporting, drought indices, monitoring techniques, decision trigger points, etc.) in coordination with State Drought Monitoring Technical Committee. This position assists with establishing and coordinating activities of county-level local drought impact groups (LDIGs) as directed in the /Arizona Drought Preparedness Plan/. Assist in consulting with State Drought Monitoring Technical Committee and coordinating information sharing with LDIGs. Knowledge of statewide water resource management issues, drought planning, drought monitoring tools, legislative processes. Ability to prioritize work activities, to work in a team environment, to develop and maintain working relationships with stakeholders having varying political interests, to prepare and analyze technical and administrative reports, statements and correspondence, to read and interpret regulatory, legal and technical documents, to communicate effectively in written and oral form to diverse audiences. Skills in negotiating and reaching consensus, in effectively managing people and dealing with conflict, in providing leadership and mentoring others, in using a variety of computer software, including word processing, spreadsheets and database applications.

For additional information about this job, other employment opportunities at ADWR and to apply please visit the State Jobs website: www.azstatejobs.gov _ Click on "Search for Jobs" then enter ADWR in the keyword search box. The above job is listed as "WATER RESRCES SPCT IV -- Statewide Wtr Plng/Drought Planning Unit. A click on that will take you to a more detailed description of the job.

Susan Craig, Manager, Community Water Planning, Arizona Department of Water Resources, smcraig@azwater.gov

(602) 771-8533

The Arizona Riparian Council list serve is meant to be a place for discussion of riparian issues and for announcements of meetings, seminars, etc. The list is moderated and inappropriate language and personal attacks will not be allowed. Postings will be sent back to the originator for proper editing. The Arizona Riparian Council provides this forum for discussion but does not necessarily agree with opinions expressed in posted comments.*
Abe Springer, Ph.D. , Associate Professor, Department of Geology , NAU Coordinator, Arizona Water Institute, Northern Arizona University ph (928) 523-7198 (is forwarded to my cell phone) e-mail: abe.springer@nau.edu

 

The Academic Job Search Wiki

on which folks can communicate to other searchers has been moved to a new wiki site due to cyber vandalism. http://scratchpad.wikia.com/wiki/AcademicJobSearch

For ecology search results go to biology and a link to ecology jobs is internal.

The new site has ways of fixing vandalism which the other did not have. It appears that the FBI is busy chasing down the individual who was deleting this information. Apparently it falls under cyber terrorism and is under federal jurisdiction! Surprise surprise! :) I hope this helps out those who are looking for academic spots. :) Malcolm L. McCallum, Assistant Professor of Biology, Editor Herpetological Conservation and Biology, http://www.herpconbio.org, malcolm.mccallum@tamut.edu

**The California Native Plant Society (CNPS) is seeking a full-time Conservation Program Director.** This position requires a highly organized and visionary individual to lead, develop and implement the Conservation Program. The Conservation Director works with CNPS volunteers and staff to develop and promote policies relevant to plant conservation in California. The Conservation Director also participates in public outreach and fundraising to support the Society's conservation goals. The Conservation Director reports directly to the Executive Director.
The California Native Plant Society (CNPS) is a statewide non-profit conservation organization, founded in 1965, with approximately 10,000 members in 33 chapters, and 12 full and part-time staff. The mission of CNPS is to increase understanding and appreciation of California's native plants and to conserve them and their natural habitats through scientific study, education, advocacy, horticulture, and land stewardship. For a full job description please go to www.cnps.org

 

Friends of Flagstaff's Future is looking for an Executive Director

The job description is attached and can also be found at http://www.friendsofflagstaff.org/alerts.php . This is a great opportunity to work with an organization dedicated to making a positive difference in Flagstaff. Please send all potential candidates their way! Those interested in applying for this position should please contact Naima Schuller at: naima@friendsofflagstaff.org or F3, PO Box 23462, Flagstaff, AZ 86002
Tamara Ramirez

The University of Hawaii

Manoa, Department of Geography (www.geography.hawaii.edu) invites applications for a full-time, 9-month, tenure-track position for an Assistant Professor in Global Environmental Change Science, to start August 1, 2008. Potential areas of research expertise include a focus on climate variability, water resource availability, marine and coastal systems, biogeochemistry, land-cover or other related topics. Expertise in a range of methodological approaches will be welcome. Duties: To teach undergraduate and graduate courses; advise undergraduate and graduate students; conduct an active research program; publish research results; seek extramural funding; and engage in departmental governance and activities. Minimum Qualifications: A PhD in Geography or an allied field must be held by the start of the appointment. A record of scholarly achievement as evidenced by publications and research. Desirable Qualifications: Demonstrated teaching ability and academic interests which complement the department's strengths.Apply: send letter of application outlining teaching interests and research agenda, curriculum vitae, names and addresses of at least three academic referees, and evidence of teaching effectiveness. Candidates should state clearly how they would expect to fit within the department and link to other programs of the College of Social Sciences and the University. Review of applications will begin on January 21, 2008. Salary range will be commensurate with qualifications and expertise. Applications should be sent to Professor Brian Szuster, Chair of Search Committee, Department of Geography, 2424 Maile Way, 445 Saunders Hall, Honolulu, HI
96822-2223. E-mail: Szuster@Hawaii.edu.

Department of Geography

University of Hawai`i at Manoa

(O)(808) 956-3524 (F) (808) 956-3512, http://www2.hawaii.edu/~qichen

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