Greetings from the Merriam-Powell Center for Environmental Research! 

January 22, 2008

MPC WEB LINK AT :
http://www.mpcer.nau.edu/

For more information, to subscribe or unsubscribe to this list contact:
Jan.Kerata@nau.edu, Administrator, Merriam-Powell Center.   928.523.6221

BIOLOGY SEMINARS  --  Week of January 21st 

Thursday January 24th at 3:45pm in the Wettaw Building Auditorium Dr. Trevor Rivers a Postdoctoral Associate from Arizona State University will present “Bioluminescent courtship and antipredatory behavior of a Caribbean marine ostracod.” 
Merriam Powell Seminar: Friday Jan 25th Z. Compson will present "Using labeled species of cottonwood leaves to track C and N transfer through the aquatic food web." in the Biology Building Room 238 from 12:30 to 2pm.

Hooper Undergraduate Research Award deadline Feb. 29

Please encourage your outstanding undergraduate researchers to apply for the Hooper award - the deadline has been extended. Please encourage outstanding students interested in research to apply for the Hooper Undergraduate Research Award. Guidelines and forms can be found at http://www.research.nau.edu/vpr/researchfunding.html.

College of Engineering & Natural Sciences - Weekly Student Opportunities

Every Monday/Tuesday our office posts scholarship, employment, and internship information on our website. Click on the following links to access the information. If you have a specific question, please feel free to contact me.
Link to theCurrent Scholarships Newsletter for the week of January 14th: http://www.cens.nau.edu/students/documents/WeeklyScholarships01-14-08.pdf
Link to theCurrent Employment & Internship Newsletter for the week of January 14th:
Archive /of Scholarships, Employment & Internship Opportunities: http://www.cens.nau.edu/students/ArchiveofAnnouncements.shtml
CENS Student Services Page: http://www.cens.nau.edu/students/

Other Opportunities

Buycabinets.com - Info Session on January 24th  Please join one of our informational business sessions. Learn about our local career opportunities with incredible income potential Offering Internships & Full -Time Positions To Motivated, Career- Minded Individuals!
Two sessions: Session one · 4pm to 5pm & Session two · 5pm to 6pm
Both serving ODB sandwiches   WHERE· Gateway student success center (Bldg. 43)

Diversity Conference in Peoria on February 5th Somewhat like a Career Fair for members of protected minorities who were historically under-represented in the professional work place. Open to both undergraduate and graduate students. Register at www.diversitypower.com

Engineering Education Poster Contest 

 “Green Engineering” is the theme for the Engineering Education Service Center’s 2008 Poster contest. This year’s winning entry can be found in a display of inspiration, excitement, wonder and curiosity. Posters should be fun, motivational and inspire students to pursue a degree in engineering, technology and/or science.

Engineering is humanitarian, caring and possibly the most effective, hands-on approach to make the world a better place. The engineering field can be very exciting. If you would like a career that allows you to help others on a grand scale or if you ever wanted to make the world a better place, then engineering has something for you!

Green Engineering is the design, commercialization and use of processes and products that are feasible and economical while minimizing the generation of pollution at the source and the risk to human health and the environment. Green Engineers design for economic, environmental and social benefits. Economic benefits include reduction in operating costs (i.e., energy and water efficiency, waste management, repair and improvement) and optimization of life- cycle economic performance. Environmental benefits include conservation of natural resources, increased use of renewable energy sources, improvements in air and water quality and reduction of solid waste generation. Social benefits include improved comfort and health, reduced impact on local resources and infrastructure, and use of recycled/reused materials. For more information, visit: www.epa.gov/oppt/greenengineering   Contest ends on February 15, 2008.

Grand Prize: $200.00 Cash, 2nd place: $100 Cash, 3rd place: $50 Cash, Honorable mentions to be awarded at judges’ discretion. All winners will also receive a certificate.
Contest Web site: http://engineeringedu.com/contest.htm
Graylynn J. Hudson , Program Coordinator , Scholarships, Internships, Employment
College of Engineering & Natural Sciences ,  Northern Arizona University , T: 928-523-5191

FORESTRY SEMINARS

http://www.for.nau.edu/cms/content/view/684/955

FOREST INFORMATION RESTORATION INFORMATION SERVICE

The Forest Restoration Information Service (FRIS) is an online resource available at http://www.unep-wcmc.org/forest/restoration/fris.

The FRIS aims to:  Provide an open-access Internet information service to support forest restoration projects.   Facilitate exchange of knowledge and experience among forest restoration projects and practitioners world-wide .   Facilitate the prioritisation, design and implementation of forest restoration efforts.  The resources available through the FRIS include: a database of forest restoration projects worldwide, case studies, definitions of key terms, datasets, maps, a bibliography and links to forest restoration guidelines, meetings and courses.

Invitation to FRIS Survey:   Through an online user survey, we hope to find out more about website visitors, your needs, and which additional materials or services would be of use. The survey takes only 4 or 5 minutes to complete.  It can be accessed until 9 February 2008 at:    http://fris-survey.notlong.com .   

This is the first user survey of the FRIS since the site was launched in 2003, so we are very keen to hear your views.  Whether you are a restoration practitioner or someone else with a strong interest in the subject, a frequent or occasional visitor to the website, your suggestions are valuable to us.

Student Career Experience Program (SCEP) recruiters are coming to NAU!

SCEP positions offer a tremendous opportunity for students to gain professional experience while working for the USDA Forest Service. Students who land SCEP positions are often guaranteed permanent employment with the USFS upon graduation, and many are granted opportunities for tuition reimbursement.

Region 3 (southwest region) recruiters will be at the School of Forestry on January 30th & 31st, 2008 interviewing students for positions in Forestry, Biology (wildlife), Recreation, Archeology, and Engineering.

Interviews are 45 minutes long and will be held in the School of Forestry, Bldg 82. Students must come prepared with a resume and unofficial copies of transcripts. Students should contact myself, Jennifer Tsonis to reserve an interview slot, and with any questions. I will also be available to help students prepare resumes and discuss interviewing skills if necessary. Students may reach me at 928-523-8956, or by emailing jennifer.tsonis@nau.edu.

Please feel free to distribute the attached flyer throughout your departments. Thanks for your help!  Jennifer Tsonis      , Student Services Coordinator, School of Forestry, Northern Arizona University,  Office: 928-523-8956

FOCUS THE NATION

We are trying to put together an event for Focus the Nation.  This is a national event scheduled to take place January 31, 2008.  Over 1000 institutions have already registered to organize their own area events for this day of focusing public attention on global warming and the implementation of clean technologies.  The main goal of Focus the Nation is to teach the public about this critical issue and what we can do to mitigate its impact, as well as to engage one another and our leaders in a discussion regarding possible and desired solutions.  A full description of the organization and national event can be viewed at www.focusthenation.org.

Our intention for the Flagstaff area is to bring together speakers and businesses dedicated to this goal in order to provide a forum for the public to "Take a Day: Unearth the Truth".  We have reserved the Kaibab and Oak Creek rooms at the NAU Union.  Please consider this invitation to come out and speak at the event, present an information table, or just be available to speak with the public.

If you have any questions or if you would like to participate please contact me at 225-1071, email:  met57@nau.edu or Cathy Juranek at (928) 814-1522, email:  cj253@nau.edu as soon as possible.  If you are able to assist in any way, please let us know.  For those who can present talks, please provide your name, address, phone #, and SSN (info we are required to provide to Student Life) as well as a desired time and length of talk (we had considered 15 minute talks, but don't want to restrict speakers and so, wish to work the schedule around length of talks).  We hope for the opportunity to have you join us in this endeavor and thank-you for your time and attention. Catherine Juranek and Mimi Torres , Co-Presidents, NAU Campus Climate Challenge
Abe Springer, Ph.D. Associate Professor, Department of Geology , NAU Coordinator, Arizona Water Institute , Northern Arizona University   e-mail: abe.springer@nau.edu

NEW CLASS AT RMBL: The Biology of Climate Change.

Coordinated by Dr. Graham Pyke, with contributions from John Harte  and Lee Panetta

Course Description: This course will address climate change and how it affects biodiversity. It will start with discussion of the importance of the issue and the resources that are available for considering it. Subsequent topics will include how the Earth's climate works, how it is changing and why, effects of climatic variables on plants and animals, effects of changes in climate on plants, animals & ecosystems, and what is possible and likely to occur in the future. It will also include discussion of climatic feedback whereby changes in ecosystems can influence changes in climate. There will also be discussion of the politics and sociology of the issue and where to from here. Local examples will be included as much as possible.

This course will involve lectures, field exercises, computer-based exercises, and discussions, both formal and informal. Students can expect to spend half of the class-time in lectures/ discussions and half in field/ computer exercises. In addition, students will be expected to carry out an independent project, based on field work, analysis of existing data, or review of available literature. Grades will be based on oral and written presentations of class exercises and individual projects, and a final exam.

Prerequisites:College-level introductory physics, calculus, statistics and biology will be useful; students lacking these background courses should be prepared to work harder catching up. Computer literacy is essential.

For information on other classes, see www.rmbl.org

REU PROGRAM.     Please tell your bright undergraduates about the RMBL REU program.  One goal of the program is to increase minority representation in science, so we are especially interested in recruiting minorities (defined by NSF as Blacks, Hispanics, Native Americans, Alaskan Natives, and Native Pacific Islanders).  The deadline for submitting REU applications to RMBL is FEBRUARY 15.   Dr. Jennie Reithel, Science Director, RMBL, www.rmbl.org

Ecology in Context: Independent Research in Ecology for Undergraduates

Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies, Millbrook, New York

The Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies is offering the Ecology in Context Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program for its 21st year in 2008. See: www.ecostudies.org/reu.html . Your help in sharing this information with students interested in doing independent research in our unique setting would be very much appreciated. Program details follow. Thank you. Alan Berkowitz, Ph.D., Head of Education and REU Program Director

Ten undergraduate students will join the IES research community in 2008 to:

• Complete a research project of their own design.  Be a part of an exciting research community.
• Work closely with leading ecologists.
• Exchange ideas with a diverse group of students, scientists and educators.
• Have access to state of the art facilities.
• Explore ecology career options and rewards
• See how ecological research has an impact on our society.

The program emphasizes the community nature of the scientific enterprise, fosters reflection and builds self confidence and skills. To complement their mentored research, students have many chances to interact, give and receive feedback and support, and participate in a rich assortment of enrichment activities, workshops and field trips.
Dates: May 27 to August 15, 2008 (12 weeks)
Eligibility: Undergraduate freshmen, sophomores, juniors or first semester seniors. Must be citizens or permanent residents of the U.S. or its possessions.
Stipend: $4,800 stipend, plus $600 allowance for food and free housing in Bacon Flats Lodge.  Other support:  Some assistance is available for travel to and from the program as well.   
To apply: See our website at: www.ecostudies.org/reu.html.
Online application available. Applications must be submitted by 15 February 2008.
For more information, contact: Patricia Zolnik, Undergraduate Research Coordinator
Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies, (845) 677-7600 x326 , E-mail: zolnikp@ecostudies.org

 

The 2008 Henry Darcy Distinguished Lecturer of the National Ground Water Association will be on campus and giving a talk on February 1.  The time and location of the presentation are to be determined, so stay tuned.   His talk title is "Geological Storage as a Carbon Mitigation Option".. Abe Springer, Ph.D. , Associate Professor, Department of Geology , NAU Coordinator, Arizona Water Institute , Northern Arizona University , e-mail: abe.springer@nau.edu

Graduate Program Assistant, Center for Environmental Sciences and Education, M.S. Program in Environmental Sciences and Education, Certificate Program in Conservation Ecology

We are looking for the right person to assist in the administration of our graduate program.  This is a part-time, temporary position that will last 6 months, but might be extended, depending on funding.  Please pass the notice on to anyone you think might be interested and qualified.  We hope to have someone on board by the end of Jan., and hopefully sooner. Thanks for your help in getting this into the right hands.  Best, Tom

Part-time Position:
Graduate Program Assistant, Center for Environmental Sciences and Education, M.S. Program in Environmental Sciences and Education, Certificate Program in Conservation Ecology
We seek a part-time temporary worker to staff our interdisciplinary graduate programs and support the Graduate Program Coordinator in outreach and recruitment, admissions, student liaisons, and tracking and filing.  This employee will work closely with and be supervised by the Graduate Program Coordinator.  The tasks associated with this position are evolving, but are likely to involve most of the following:
Coordinate Student Applications:  Address inquiries from students, forward initial information and contacts to possible faculty advisor(s) and the graduate program coordinator,  Compile and print application files, Serve as liaison to applicants; assist in completion of application process, keep applicants informed of their status  Create and maintain application spreadsheets, provide regularly updated information to the graduate coordinator and committee, Write, send, and track acceptance, rejection, and G.A. appointment letters
Program Support: 

• Maintain graduate student progress spreadsheet and track student progress,
• Maintain graduate student and alumni contact information,
• Collate and post grant and internship opportunities for graduate students,
• Maintain and revise graduate program web site,
• Assist in arranging dates and locations for thesis defenses and in publicizing them,
• Gather and update material for hard copy and web outreach, including graduate curriculum and program requirements, promotional materials, thesis titles and publications, etc.,
• Up-date curricular and programmatic changes, provide information concerning availability of relevant interdisciplinary coursework
  Administer Graduate Assistantships and Fellowships
• Complete graduate assistantship forms (conditions of appointment, conviction disclosure, employee ID etc.) ,
• Organize orientation activities and schedule for GAs in August (e.g., van driver training, TA orientation, payroll forms, and other university activities)
• Provide support to CESE staff regarding graduate research activities, summer stipend, PAR, and other forms, including travel reimbursements, and equipment purchases,
• Assist in preparing reports to sponsors of externally funded fellowships.

Minimum qualifications:  BS or BA degree in an environmental field, excellent interpersonal communication skills, strong writing ability, and familiarity with word processing and spreadsheet applications.  Experience in web editing (DreamWeaver or equivalent software program) highly desirable.  Applicants should send cover letter and current resume or c.v. to Tom Sisk, Graduate Program Coordinator; CESE, P.O. Box 5694; Northern Arizona University; Flagstaff, AZ 86011-5694.  Employment will be as a temporary, part-time worker (without benefits) at Northern Arizona University. Start date will be between January 22-28, and the position will continue 6 months, to be extended depending on availability of funding. Salary is $12/hr, and work hours are negotiable.  For more information contact Dr. Sisk at Thomas.Sisk@nau.edu or (928)523-7183).

 

Biological Science Tech., GS-0404-6/7
TERM position   Opens: 12/26/07   -  Closes: 1/28/08
Announcement #: PWROAK-07-85-DEU
Biological Science Tech., GS-0404-5
Seasonal position   Opens: 1/8/08   -- Closes: 2/20/08
Announcement: PWROAK-08-01-TEMP

Over the holidays some jobs will be opening that might be of interest to your students, colleagues, or friends. Because you've been doing research at Great Basin National Park, you know well what a great place this is. The announcements will be posted at http://www.usajobs.gov/

.The biological science technician positions will work in the resource management branch doing a variety of duties, including a large amount of fieldwork potentially involving collecting water samples; surveying birds, small mammals, and fish; conducting habitat surveys; and measuring stream discharge. The seasonal positions will be approximately May-September; the term position will begin as soon as March and likely extend beyond September, possibly up to four years and includes benefits.

This is an open hiring authority, meaning that anyone can apply. Students who are full-time in the spring semester and will be returning full-time in the 2008 fall semester are also eligible for an additional hiring authority, called the Student Temporary Employment Program (STEP). If you know of someone who falls in this category that is interested in the position, please have that person contact me directly for more information.

Please pass this opportunity on to anyone who might be interested. Thanks!
Gretchen Baker, Ecologist   Phone:  775-234-7331, x251   E-mail: Gretchen_Baker@nps.gov

Executive Director - San Francisco Bay Bird Observatory

Milpitas, California

The San Francisco Bay Bird Observatory is looking for a visionary leader with a successful track record to lead our growing organization.

The Bird Observatory is a small, non-profit organization with 26 years of experience conducting avian research in the San Francisco Bay area. This research contributes to land management decisions that address local conservation challenges of concern to resource agencies, policymakers, and California citizens. In addition to our 26 years of riparian research and breeding population studies of colonial water birds and California gulls, our staff participates on the South Bay Salt Pond Science Team and the San Francisco Bay Area Upland Habitat Goals Focus Teams. Through our Outreach program, we actively provide opportunities for people to be directly involved in the natural history and science of the San Francisco Bay Area, expanding their appreciation for the local environment. The Bird Observatory considers its team of 100 long-standing, dedicated volunteers part of its family and they greatly enhance the reach of our science.

RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Organizational Development:
• Manage the development and implementation of strategic plans,
• Communicate our organizational vision to partners and the community,
• Oversee and implement a plan for ongoing evaluation of the organization's effectiveness,
• Develop and implement program structures and policies to support the organizational mission,
• Provide leadership for fostering collaborative relationships throughout the organization and the Bird Observatory's partners.

Fundraising and Development:

• Develop and implement a sustainable, diversified fundraising plan,
• Maintain and build upon current funding sources including grants, contracts, and donations,
• Identify and develop new revenue sources including a major donor ,campaign.
• Develop, support, and coordinate a capital campaign program,
• Develop and support grant and contract applications.

Fiscal Management:

• Prepare monthly finance reports for the Board of Directors (Board) and supervise audits, expenditure reports and other requested fiscal reports , for the Board, Supervise finance staff and coordinate management of financial and administrative procedures to maintain fiscally sound programs and accounting systems.
• Prepare an annual budget and development plans to meet financial needs of programs and administrative operations.
• Regularly track performance against budget to ensure that the financial goals are achieved, cash flow is maintained, and the financial reserve is built upon.
• Adhere to Generally Accepted Accounting Principals and Checks and Balances as outlined in the Financial Policy.

Program Development, Administration, and Evaluation:

• Provide leadership, direction, and support for the staff/organization
• Promote an organizational culture/structure that fosters cooperation, communication, teamwork and trust,
• Ensure compliance with all organizational and legal requirements for hiring and employment practices.
• Provide for development activities that upgrade staff skills, motivate performance and promote staff retention,
• Hire, train, and supervise staff and independent contractors,
• Conduct annual staff performance review

Board Support:

• Provide advice, and help facilitate policy development and change, to assist the Board with organizational support and development,
• Maintain standards and structure for appropriate and effective communication between the Board and staff.
• Provide the Board with pertinent and timely information for decision making and organizational evaluation
• Assist Board leadership to recruit, orient, train and mobilize new board members to support the mission
• Facilitate operations and provide staffing as appropriate for Board committees.

Community Relations:

• Proactively market and promote the Bird Observatory's mission and supporting services to the media and community.
• Serve as the primary representative of the organization at fundraising events, technical meetings, and public outreach events as directed by the Board.
• Communicate organizational vision to a variety of stakeholders including partners organizations, foundations, resource agencies, and members of the community.
• Cultivate and sustain collaborative partnerships with partners and resource agencies in the conservation field.

QUALIFICATIONS - Successful applicants will have the following qualifications:

Two to five years of experience with non-profit management, An advanced degree is preferred (M.S. or Ph.D.), but a B.S. with complementary experience will be considered. Passion for conservation science; familiarity or experience with avian ecology preferred .Demonstrated organizational leadership and team development skills. Successful experience networking and building collaborative partnerships.  Effective communication and facilitation skills. Energy, enthusiasm, patience, and a sense of humor.

Ideal candidates will have experience in these additional areas:  Ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical audiences.  Successful grant writing and fundraising experience.   Demonstrated critical thinking skills as applicable to the overall organization strategy and the fine detail of everyday management .Familiarity or experience with relevant state and federal environmental laws and regulations.

Salary range: $52,000 - $55,000 depending on qualifications and experience plus a competitive benefits package.

To apply, please submit both a cover letter and resume to ExecutiveSearch@sfbbo.org.  Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a qualified candidate is identified.

Qualified candidates will be asked to complete a phone interview and successful candidates will be invited for an in-person interview. Questions can be directed to Jennifer Krauel, San Francisco Bay Bird, Observatory Board President, via e-mail at jkrauel@sfbbo.org.=20

Senior Research Specialist Position at the University of Arizona

Contact: Lisa Graumlich (lisag@cals.arizona.edu)

The School of Natural Resources at the University of Arizona is  looking for a Senior Research Specialist to assist Director Lisa  Graumlich in research that seeks to produce integrated assessments of  vulnerability and adaptation of ecosystems and natural resources to  climate change. This individual will be responsible for playing a lead  role in developing and implementing research projects focused on  western North America (including Mexico), and for building key  collaborations with multiple partners - including federal/state  scientists and NGOs (non-government organizations). This person will  also oversee and coordinate lab operations along with developing  strategies and products that communicate the results of the research in a range of formats from peer-reviewed journal articles to public  talks. Some fieldwork required, necessitating a valid drivers license  and access to reliable transportation.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assemble, analyze and maintain large spatio-temporal climate, land  use, ecological and socioeconomic datasets.
• Develop multi-institutional collaborations for research and outreach, including international collaborations.
• Act as a liaison with federal and state resource managers in western US and northern Mexico.
• Supervise and train student and grant-funded employees.
• Take leadership role in preparing manuscripts for publication and for generating grant proposals, including developing high quality maps and graphics.
• Take leadership role in developing outreach materials, including web- accessible data products.

Minimum qualifications:  Master's degree in a field appropriate to the area of assignment AND three years of related research experience; OR, Bachelor's degree in a  field appropriate to the area of assignment and four years of related  research experience; OR, any equivalent combination of experience,  training and/or education.

 Preferred qualifications   Proven experience and demonstrated high-proficiency with GIS (Geographic Information Systems), spatial analyses, time series  analyses, and a variety of statistical analyses packages.   Proficient within a Mac OSX or Windows based PC computing environment, ESRI ArcGIS software, Sigma Plot, and Microsoft Office.  Working knowledge of R or Matlab statistical computing software.  Proven experience developing collaborative, ideally, international  research projects.   Proven experience managing projects and motivating staff.

Proven experience collaborating on peer-reviewed papers, proposals,  and outreach materials.

Timimg and compensation:  The position is available immediately and applications will be reviewed starting January 31, 2008.  Applications will be accepted  until the position is filled.  Compensation based on level of  experience. Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, and life  insurance; paid vacation, sick leave and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition  reduction for employee and qualified family members; access to campus  cultural and recreational activities; state retirement, and more.

To apply, go to http://www.uacareertrack.com, job number 40041.   Contact Professor Lisa Graumlich at lisag@cals.arizona.edu for more  information.

Job Description: The Department of Renewable Resources at University of Wyoming seeks a Ph.D. student for a fully funded graduate research assistantship (GA).

The qualified applicant will conduct research on an interdisciplinary multi-state project to develop a Rangeland Decision Support Tool.  This inter-agency and multi-University project will link field monitoring, hydrologic and erosion simulation models with scenario builders and economic models within a GIS system.  Multiple PhD students will be working on this project at the Universities of Wyoming and Arizona. This announcement is to recruit a student whose primary responsibilities will involve advancing GIS-based hydrological and erosion modeling techniques.  Activities will include GIS programming and interface development, rangeland and watershed field data collection, and calibration and validation of modeling results.

Qualifications:  An MS in Watershed Management, Hydrology in a closely related field is required. Experience with GIS programming and interface development are desirable.

Project Duration:  3 years

Project Location:  The project housed in the Dept of Renewable Resources under the joint supervision of Drs. Scott Miller & Ginger Paige. How to Apply:  Please send your resume, transcripts and contact information along with contacts for a minimum of two references to Scott Miller (snmiller@uwyo.edu) and Ginger Paige (gpaige@uwyo.edu). Start Date:   Summer 2008

Janet L. Marsh,. Office Assistant Sr. University of Wyoming, Department of Renewable Resources   windsong@uwyo.edu

 

Program Assistant, AIBS Headquarters Office

The American Institute of Biological Sciences, a membership-based nonprofit scientific organization, seeks a program assistant to join its team at AIBS Headquarters in Washington, DC. This is a full-time salaried position. Will assist Executive Office and Public Policy Office staff in promoting AIBS membership and programs, organizing events, and conducting public policy activities. Some travel required. Requires a Bachelor's degree. The successful candidate will be a reliable, well-organized, and personable individual with an enthusiastic roll-up-your-sleeves work attitude and an abiding interest in advancing the biological sciences. Must have proficiency with computers and database software plus experience with web publishing. Must have strong oral and written communications skills combined with attention to detail and grace under pressure while multi-tasking on time-sensitive projects with AIBS staff and others. Salary in the 30s. Excellent benefits incl. health care and retirement plan. Email cover letter and resume with "Program Assistant" in the subject line to rogrady@aibs.org.  Open until filled.

 

OPPORTUNITY FOR SUMMER FIELD TECHNICIANS: PLANT COMMUNITY STRUCTURE AND ECOLOGICAL RESTORATION IN PINYON-JUNIPER WOODLANDS

Project Overview:  Two summer field technicians are needed for a landscape-level study of plant community succession in pinyon and juniper woodlands, decades after  two different types of management treatments (prescribed fire and chaining). The study involves revisiting sites that were first sampled in the early and mid 1970s. This project is a collaborative venture among the Great Basin Landscape Ecology Lab (http://www.cabnr.unr.edu/weisberg/=  at the University of Nevada, Reno, and the Great Basin Ecology Lab (http://www.ag.unr.edu/gbem/) of the USFS Rocky Mountain Research Station. The project is based in Reno, Nevada.

Job Description:  Field technicians will assist in data collection and data management, and will develop skills in field techniques for landscape ecology and plant community ecology, including plant identification, vegetation sampling, and tree-ring research.  Technicians will also develop knowledge of plant communities and forest and rangeland management strategies in the Great Basin.  The job will require camping near a field vehicle in remote wild lands of Nevada.

Location:  Five mountain ranges in scenic Eastern Nevada.  Elevations range from 6200 to 7400 ft and temperatures vary greatly between the 30s to 90’s Responsibilities: As a field assistant you would be expected to assist in the collection of stand structure data, increment cores, tree canopy cover, understory cover, plant density data, and fuel load estimates.  Training for all tasks will be provided.

 Qualifications:  Valid drivers license required, along with the ability to navigate with a map and compass.  Must be able to collect and record detailed field data and be comfortable working with other people.  Must have a passion for working outdoors for long periods of time under rugged conditions, a good attitude, and willingness to learn.  Must be willing to camp for up to 7 nights at a time.  Must be in good physical condition, as it will be necessary to carry a minimum of 25-30 pounds of field equipment for distances up to a few miles per day. Experience with plant identification and familiarity with manual transmissions and 4WD is welcomed, but not required.

Pay:  $11.00-$13.00/hour (DOE), plus per diem when in the field, approximately 40 hours/week.  No overtime hours will be paid.  Job begins May 19, 2008,  and ends approximately August 15, 2008.  To Apply:  Send a brief letter of interest, resume, and a list of three references to:

bristown@unr.nevada.edu  or  Nathan Bristow, 1000 Valley Road, MS 186, Reno, Nevada, 89512    For more information:  http://www.cabnr.unr.edu/weisberg/research/landscape08/ phone:  775-784-6319,   Applications will be reviewed as received. Hiring decisions will be made by 3/1/08.

 

SUMMER JOBS IN THE SIERRA NEVADA!

AMPHIBIAN FIELD ASSISTANTS WANTED

Employer:  USDA Forest Service, Region 5 (Pacific Southwest)

Location:  Field work is throughout the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range of California.

Job location is Sonora, California.

Employment Duration:  Most are approximately 3 months (June-August);  Several positions may be of longer duration.

Titles:  Biological Technician (Fisheries, Wildlife)

Grade Levels:GS-05 (Temporary 1039)

Closing Date:  02/8/2008

Eligibility:  US citizens at least 18 years of age.

Background and Job Description:  The U.S. Forest Service is hiring seasonal biological technicians for a long-term amphibian monitoring program focusing on the mountain yellow-legged frog (Rana muscosa) and the Yosemite toad (Bufo canorus). These jobs will predominantly consist of field work in the Sierra Nevada  at elevations of 5,000-12,000 feet.  Primary duties include locating and traveling to selected sample sites; surveying lakes, ponds, meadows, and  streams for amphibians; and collecting habitat data.  Many of the sites will be remote, requiring backpacking trips of up to 8-days duration. Some office work including data entry and checking is required during the  season.  Some preparatory office work may be available in early season and data entry or cleanup at the end of the season.  We are looking for applicants with a background and/or high level of interest in herpetology and/or aquatic biology who are in good physical condition and willing to endure high altitude, temperature extremes, rough terrain, and the  occasional mosquito (ok, maybe thousands).  Backpacking and backcountry experience, and experience in amphibian surveys and identification are desired.  Ability to get along with crew members for prolonged periods in the backcountry is a must.

Hiring Process:  Students - send me your resume - see below.

NonStudents - The application is an on-line process.

To apply go to:  http://www.avuedigitalservices.com/usfs/applicant.html=20=

You may also view these announcements in USAJOBS under:

http://www.usajobs.opm.gov/  (From this website you can type in the job announcement numbers (i.e.: DE-OCR-0404-5-WLDLF) under SEARCH JOBS and be able to view them).

These jobs are competitive. Because amphibian expertise comes from multiple disciplines, two separate jobs are posted for this grade (FISHERIES and WILDLIFE).  Apply to the one you think you qualify for based on your background.  You are welcome to apply to both. We are also advertising jobs for Crew Leaders  (GS-06).  There is a separate outreach for these positions and they have different job announcement numbers. SEE OTHER ANNOUNCEMENT NOTE:  Be sure you get a confirmation that your application was received.  If you do not receive confirmation by email shortly after you apply, try again.

IMPORTANT:  For these jobs, select "Sonora, California"  as a location. You must do this to show up on my list.  By applying here, you also will be eligible for many Biological Technician jobs nationwide.

The Job announcements numbers are:  DE-OCR-0404-5-WLDLF Biological Science Technician (Wildlife), GS-0404-05

Nationwide:  Multiple Locations  DE-OCR-0404-5-FISH Biological Science Technician (Fisheries) GS-0404-05

Nationwide:  Multiple Locations

IN ADDITION - THIS IS ALSO IMPORTANT  Please send your resume (email or paper copy resumes are fine) and contact information for three references to:  Kathryn (Katie) Kiehl, Amphibian Monitoring Crew Supervisor, U.S. Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Research Station PO Box 245, Berkeley, CA 94701  kkiehl@fs.fed.us    If you have questions, please email me.  Please, no phone calls.  This is a great employment opportunity in an incredibly beautiful location.  We are looking forward to a very busy and exceptionally fun field season.  Join us!

 

SUMMER JOBS IN THE SIERRA NEVADA!

AMPHIBIAN CREW LEADERS WANTED

Employer:  USDA Forest Service, Region 5 (Pacific Southwest)

Location: 9Field work is throughout the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range of California.

Job location is Sonora, California.

Employment Duration:  Most are approximately 3 months (June-August); Several positions may be of longer duration.

Titles:  Biological Technician (Fisheries, Wildlife)

Grade Levels:GS-06 (Temporary 1039)

Closing Date:  02/8/2008

Eligibility:  US citizens at least 18 years of age.

Background and Job Description:  The U.S. Forest Service is hiring seasonal biological technicians for a  long-term amphibian monitoring program focusing on the mountain yellow-legged frog (Rana muscosa) and the Yosemite toad (Bufo canorus).   These jobs will predominantly consist of field work in the Sierra Nevada  at elevations of 5,000-12,000 feet.  These positions supervise a 2-person  crew whose primary duties include locating and traveling to selected sample sites; surveying lakes, ponds, meadows, and streams for amphibians and collecting habitat data.  Many of the sites will be remote, requiring  backpacking trips of up to 8-days duration.  Some office work including data entry and checking is required during the season.  Some preparatory  office work may be available in early season and data entry or cleanup at the end of the season.  Crew leaders also help with the general organization of work during the season.  We are looking for applicants with a background and/or high level of interest in herpetology and/or aquatic biology who are in good physical condition and willing to endure high altitude, temperature extremes, rough terrain, and the occasional mosquito (ok, maybe thousands).  Backpacking and backcountry experience, and experience in amphibian surveys and identification are desired. Ability to get along with crew members for prolonged periods in the backcountry is a must.

Hiring Process:  Students - send me your resume - see below.

NonStudents - The application is an on-line process. To apply go to:  http://www.avuedigitalservices.com/usfs/applicant.html

You may also view these announcements in USAJOBS under: http://www.usajobs.opm.gov/  (From this website you can type in the job announcement numbers (i.e.: DE-OCR-0404-6-WLDLF) under SEARCH JOBS and be able to view them).

These jobs are competitive. Because amphibian expertise comes from multiple disciplines, two separate jobs are posted for this grade (FISHERIES and WILDLIFE).  Apply to the one you think you qualify for based on your background.  You are welcome to apply to both. We are also advertising jobs for Field Assistants (GS-05).  There is a separate outreach for these positions and they have different job announcement numbers. SEE OTHER ANNOUNCEMENT

NOTE:  Be sure you get a confirmation that your application was received. If you do not receive confirmation by email shortly after you apply, try again.

IMPORTANT:  For these jobs, select "Sonora, California"  as a location. You must do this to show up on my list.  By applying here, you also will be eligible for many Biological Technician jobs nationwide.

The Job announcements numbers are: DE-OCR-0404-6-WLDLF Biological Science Technician (Wildlife), GS-0404-06.  Nationwide:  Multiple Locations

DE-OCR-0404-6-FISH Biological Science Technician (Fisheries) GS-0404-06, Nationwide:  Multiple Locations

IN ADDITION - THIS IS ALSO IMPORTANT  Please send your resume (email or paper copy resumes are fine) and contact information for three references to:  Kathryn (Katie) Kiehl, Amphibian Monitoring Crew Supervisor, U.S. Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Research Station PO Box 245 ,Berkeley, CA 94701  kkiehl@fs.fed.us   If you have questions, please email me.  Please, no phone calls.   This is a great employment opportunity in an incredibly beautiful location.  We are looking forward to a very busy and exceptionally fun field season.  Join us!

Vacancy Announcement for Field Biological Technicians (Reno, NV)

Overview:  Field biological technicians are needed for a research project that investigates geomorphic and hydrologic influences on riparian vegetation  in the Toiyabe Mountains of central Nevada.  This project is a collaborative  venture among the Great Basin Landscape Ecology Lab  (www.cabnr.unr.edu/weisberg ) at the University of Nevada, Reno, and the Great Basin Ecology Lab (www.ag.unr.edu/gbem ) of the USFS Rocky Mountain Research Station. The research is tied to a larger US Forest Service program to improve management and restoration of Great Basin riparian ecosystems.

The position provides a great opportunity to learn about plant communities of the Intermountain West while gaining valuable field experience in botany and landscape ecology. Please visit www.cabnr.unr.edu/weisberg/research/landscape09/index.htm for more information on the research.

Duties: Two or three biological technicians will be hired to assist in field data collection and data management. The majority of the work will involve quantifying plant communities along transects and in plots in riparian habitats. The work schedule will be eight 10-hr days on and six days off  to minimize travel to and from the field sites in central Nevada. Car camping in remote locations will be required, as well as willingness to carry field equipment.

Qualifications:  Applicants should be excited about working outdoors under rugged and remote conditions, be in good physical condition, and work well with other people. The majority of the data collection will involve plant identification and so experience in this area is desired, although training will be provided.Camping experience is also helpful. Valid drivers license is required as well as the ability to navigate with map, compass and GPS.

Pay:  $11-13/ hour, 80 hours/ two week period plus per diem when in the field.  Job will begin in late May 2008 and end in mid-August 2008.

Interested applicants should send a letter of interest, resume, transcript,  and contact information for 3 references via email to Blake Engelhardt, bengelhardt@cabnr.unr.edu . Applications will be reviewed starting February 1, 2008; positions are open until filled.

 

Job Announcement, Lyme disease ecology, Full-time, seasonal research assistant

Full-time, seasonal (March-May 2007), paid research assistants needed for research project on the ecology of Lyme disease in Marin County, California. This research program is in the laboratories of Dr. Cheryl Briggs (UCSB) and Wayne Sousa (UCB) and focuses on the relationship between habitat and Lyme disease dynamics. Specifically, we investigate the influence of habitat characteristics on the population ecology of small mammals and lizards and

their interactions with the disease vector, the western black-legged tick .  Assistants will primarily assist with field research conducted in Marin and Monterey Counties on the ecology of Lyme disease and the impacts of habitat change on disease prevalence and dynamics. Work will include small-mammal  trapping, lizard population manipulation and surveys, and tick drag collections. Fieldwork will involve daily trips to field sites in Marin County and will often include early mornings and long days in the field as well.

Requirements include a background in biology or related field and prior field ecology experience.  Preference will be given to applicants with experience trapping mammals and/or handling lizards in the field. Other desirable qualities include attention to detail, organizational skills, and a strong sense of self-motivation.

Consideration of applications will begin immediately.  To apply, please visit the UC Berkeley job site at: jobs.berkeley.edu and search for the job number 7842. Consideration of applicants will begin immediately.   Questions about this position can be directed towards Andrea Swei, swei@berkeley.edu.

JOBS  --  JOBS  --  JOBS

Post-doctoral Position to Develop California's Environment Score-Card

We are beginning to review applications, so if you would like to apply, please do so soon.

California currently lacks a science-based system for tracking ecological and socio-economic change at any scale. A group of state-funded organizations, agencies, and universities is beginning to develop such a system and would like a post-doctoral fellow to participate. The position would be at the University of California, Davis, which is well-known for its natural, economic, and social sciences.

The statewide collaborative group includes water agencies, environmental non-profits, federal agencies, and universities. The UC Davis group will interact closely with the statewide effort and provide much of the scientific expertise.  The successful candidate will be motivated to develop and apply statistical and science-based tools to measure change in ecological and socio-economic conditions in response to various drivers. (S)he will have previous experience in inter-disciplinary research involving natural sciences and either social or economic science/analysis. Experience with data analysis with large environmental datasets and contemporary statistical approaches at various geographicv scales is desired. In addition, experience with GIS and remote-sensing data is preferred. The post-doc will work primarily with UCD scientists Fraser Shilling, Mark Lubell, Josh Viers, and Jim Quinn and secondarily with colleagues from state agencies (e.g., Department of Water Resources), local agencies (Napa County), other universities (e.g., UCLA, USC), and private consultants (e.g., Canadian firm "ESSA").

The position currently has funding for 2 years, but continuation of funding is possible. Start date may be any time between April 1 and June 1, 2008. The initial annual salary is ~$42,000 (DOE) plus full benefits including health and dental coverage.  Interested persons holding a doctoral degree from an accredited institution should contact Fraser Shilling (see below), by sending electronic copies of: a cover letter briefly describing research experiences and interests; curriculum vitae; 2 relevant reprints; and 3 references to: Dr. Fraser Shilling, Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of California, Davis CA 95616, USA.  Contact phone number is 530/752-7859.  Application via email (preferred) to fmshilling@ucdavis.edu.  Contact fax number is 530/752-3350.  Screening of applications begins in January, 2008 and will continue until the position is filled. University of California, Davis is an Affirmative  action/Equal Opportunity Employer.