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December 2016

Archives for December 2016

Undergrad Research Opportunities 12/21/16

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1) Summer Research Fellowships at UVA Field Station

Blandy Experimental Farm at University of Virginia has some wonderful fellowship opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students and postdocs during summer 2017.  The opportunities are open to applicants from any college or university.

Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU): The program emphasizes experimental ecology and evolutionary biology including a wide variety of topics such as plant-animal interactions, pollinator behavior and ecology, insect population ecology, and ecosystem ecology. Successful applicants will receive a $5775 stipend, additional money for food, and free housing.  Each student picks a research mentor from our pool of faculty members and graduate students and then conducts an independent research project.  The students will gain experience in experimental design, data collection, analytical techniques, and written and oral presentation of findings.  REU students also benefit from several professional development workshops.

This is a wonderful opportunity for an undergraduate student contemplating a future in science. The application deadline is March 1, 2017. To apply: https://sites.google.com/site/blandyreu/

 

2) Winter and Spring Sessions Open: Biological Research & Permaculture Internships in the Rainforest of Ecuador

Third Millennium Alliance (TMA) was founded in 2007 with the purchase of 100 acres and the establishment of the Jama-Coaque Reserve (JCR) in the western province of Manabí, Ecuador, between the cities of Jama and Pedernales, and four kilometers inland. Now encompassing over 1,200 acres, the Jama-Coaque Reserve actively protects one of the last remaining fragments of Pacific Equatorial Forest, which is considered to be one of the most threatened tropical forests in the world.  Learn more at www.tmalliance.org.

Internship Opportunities:

Interns are to take on high-impact and dynamic projects in the fields of biological field research and sustainable food production. There is a tremendous amount of work to be done and experience to be gained – for interns and for us. Above all, creativity, innovation, and self-motivation are the fuel of our internship program. Immediately surrounding the house we are designing/growing/building a living laboratory of sustainable resource management (i.e. permaculture), which also serves as our field headquarters for biological scientific research and forest monitoring.

Interns are to select a specific project focus for their time in the Reserve. Generally speaking, there are three project paths of personal projects: 1) flora & fauna research, 2) permaculture & land management, and 3) appropriate technology

The following is a list of some of the projects we’re looking to tackle during the upcoming sessions. Some are new projects and others are ongoing and multi- year projects. When applying please inform us which of the three project paths you would like to join and which specific project you are most interested in.

Flora & Fauna Research:

  • Primate Demography & Behavior Study (Howler & critically endangered White Fronted Capuchin)
  • Investigation of Endangered Avifauna – (Nesting ecology, habitat use study integrated with reforestation efforts)
  • Camera trapping of wildlife (birds; wild felids including ocelot, jaguarondi, etc)
  • Herpetofauna survey (reptile and amphibian diversity and abundance)
  • Seed bank and germination studies for reforestation plots
  • Inventory of Orchid species in the Reserve

Permaculture & Land Management:

  • Production Zone Intensive – Focused on increasing food production, crop zonification & rotation, plant propagation, care/maintenance, and integrated pest management.
  • Agroforestry – Maintenance and use of mixed-use forest. Development of cleaning and harvest system, use of products, and analysis of agroforestry systems in relation to the widespread use of slash and burn agriculture.
  • Reforestation – Last year we planted 6,500 trees in one portion of our re- forestation plot, and hope to plant another 8,000 next year. We want to keep this momentum going this year to plant even more trees and expand the project. Help manage tree propagation and planting efforts.
  • Green Building – Learn to use natural, recycled and sustainable building materials. Assist with construction projects of all forms as we continue to grow into the future.

Appropriate Technology:

  • Assist with development of alternative energy systems (ie. micro-hydro and
  • solar)
  • Design and build a solar or compost water heater.
  • Design and build a solar food dehydrator.

We also offer an optional Permaculture Design Certification (PDC) course with our internship, which is highly integrated with the real-life applications of permaculture in the Reserve.  If you are interested in becoming certified in Permaculture Design during your time in the Reserve please review our website for further details about how to apply

 

3) Temporary Field Technicians – multiple locations in US for the NEON Project

Battelle and its affiliate, Battelle Ecology, Inc. manage and operate the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEONTM), a 30-year long project, solely funded by the National Science Foundation.  During the life of the observatory a comprehensive set of ecological data will be collected on a continental scale at 20 eco-climatic domains across the US in order to understand how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecosystem function.  Our team of scientist, engineers and field technicians use cutting-edge technology, including an airborne observation platform that captures images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with sensors to monitor soil and atmospheric variables; and trained field crews who observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data.  A leading-edge cyberinfrastructure has been developed to calibrate, store and publish this information so that it is freely available to the public.  This first-of-its-kind Observatory includes more than 500+ personnel and is designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Reporting to the Manager Field Operations the Temporary Field Technicians assist with field observation; sample collection and handling; sample processing and sample shipment of a variety of taxa.

The Temporary Field technician will perform field and laboratory activities based on a set schedule under the guidance of a Lead Temporary Field Technician and permanent Field Technicians.

Field sampling activities include the following observation and specimen collection activities:

  • Plant diversity observations
  • Plant biomass and primary productivity measurements
  • Rodent live trapping
  • Invertebrate collections
  • Sediment, soil and water sample collection
  • Lake/stream bathymetry and morphology
  • Riparian mapping

THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS MUST BE MET TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION:

  • High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Ability and willingness to work varied schedules (up to 12+ hours per day), including split-shift, part-time, pre-dawn early mornings, evening and weekends.
  • Ability to work safely in variable field conditions including:
  • Must possess a current and valid State issued driver’s license with insurable Department of Motor vehicle record (parking violations, minor driving offenses excluded) as determined by Battelle Ecology Inc.’s insurance provider.
  • Must have permanent authorization for US employment. Battelle Ecology, Inc. will not provide any kind of visa sponsorship.

To see the full job description and to apply go to: www.neonscience.org.

 

4) VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR MARINE CONSERVATION SURVEY IN BAJA

Raven Adventures Marine Conservation Survey is an international effort to gather much needed scientific data regarding present environmental / biological conditions found in the Loreto area of the Sea of Cortez, Baja California Sur. We are looking for volunteers to assist our Mexican conservation partner GEA (Grupos Ecologistas Antares) with tasks such as marine transects, plankton pulls, and other biological investigations in an effort to better understand the fragile ecosystem of the Sea of Cortez. Additional tasks volunteers may wish to partake in include the recovery of cetacean, marine mammal and bird carcasses that will be cleaned, processed and reconstructed for use as educational displays in the GEA museum, as well as creating or improving museum dioramas, producing educational literature, labeling artifacts and making new displays. In addition, volunteers will also walk select shorelines documenting coastal conditions such as pollution, erosion and overuse issues. Volunteers may be exposed to an abundant variety of marine life, including whale species such as the blue, sperm, brydes, humpback, finback, orca and pilot whale. Dolphins and sea lions can also be found in high numbers throughout the study site.

The program cost is $950 per person for the 9-day session from January 26th – February 3rd, 2017 and is limited to 4 participants.  The cost includes food, base camp lodging/camping accommodations, camping gear, and research and safety equipment. Volunteers will be responsible for their flight/bus to/from Loreto, Baja Mexico. We have years of experience traveling to Baja and will be happy to share useful information on how best to arrange plane or bus tickets from your location.

For more information contact Sabrina Salome at: sabrina@ravenadventures.com

 

5) Earth Science Summer Research Opportunity at Biosphere 2

The University of Arizona is holding a 10-week Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program this summer (June 5 – Aug 11, 2017): “Biosphere 2 Earth Systems Research for Environmental Solutions”

Selected students participate in a variety of activities that will help them pursue a career in environmental sciences. Students conduct their own research under a mentor, interact with other participants and scientists, and present research findings in a formal poster symposium setting. Unique components of the Biosphere 2 REU experience are interaction with the public visitors to Biosphere 2 and training in effective outreach related to student research topics. Additionally, students participate in professional development workshops, an ethics-in-science workshop, and field trips to local attractions. Undergraduate students from a wide range of disciplines and interests including biology, ecology, plant sciences, hydrology, soil science, geology, atmospheric science, mathematics, physics, chemistry, or computer science are encouraged to apply. Only U.S. citizens or permanent residents are eligible for this NSF (National Science Foundation) funded program.

Research at Biosphere 2 (http://biosphere2.org/) aims to catalyze interdisciplinary thinking and understanding about the Earth, its living systems, and its future. Students in the REU program conduct research in the Earth system and environmental sciences that examines some facet of soil-water-atmosphere-plant interactions. Improving understanding of these interactions is important for gaining insight into the impacts and causes of global environmental change and variation. Key to research at Biosphere 2 is the use of methods and techniques that allow linking across scales.

Additionally, some REU projects will be conducted in partnership with the southwestern Critical Zone Observatory (http://criticalzone.org/catalina-jemez/). Projects will focus on a variety of topics that include (but aren’t limited to): coupling ecohydrology and biogeochemistry, investigating abiotic and biotic contributions to ecosystem processes, integrating measurements across scales, using innovative tools to link climate and ecological function, and modeling of ecosystem and soil processes. Students work with several outreach organizations (e.g., Institute of the Environment, Water Resources Research Center, Native Nations Climate Adaptation Program) at the University of Arizona to link their research to addressing local and global environmental challenges.

REU Students receive: A competitive stipend, lodging at Biosphere 2’s student village, food allowance, and travel to and from Tucson, AZ, as well as support for travel to a professional meeting to present their work.

Applications for summer of 2017 are due March 1st, 2017, and application material can be found at: http://biosphere2.org/education/reu-application-form

Matheny Receives Stuntz Foundation Award

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Associate Professor Brandon Matheny received an award from the Daniel E. Stuntz Memorial Foundation to revise the taxonomy of species of Inocybe (a genus of mushroom-forming fungi in the order Agaricales) published by Dan Stuntz between 1947 and 1984. A revision of these species will facilitate a new floristic and monographic treatment of Inocybe in North America, a cosmopolitan genus represented by some 350 species in North America alone.

Undergrad Research Opportunities 12/12/16

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1) Undergraduate Internship at Field Station in NE PA

The Lacawac Sanctuary is a non-profit biological field station, 545-acre nature preserve, and environmental education center located in NE Pennsylvania. Founded in 1966, the Lacawac Sanctuary has a long history of supporting ecological research, providing public access to preserved natural lands, and providing innovative environmental education programs. Due to its pristine, protected nature Lake Lacawac serves as “living laboratory,” thereby providing a baseline for ecological study.

The Lacawac Sanctuary and Biological Field Station seeks an undergraduate intern for Summer 2017. The student will work with the Director of Research and Education on various Pocono lake monitoring projects and assist with outreach activities. They will spend considerable time conducting field work, completing laboratory analysis, and communicating science with the public via public programs.

A modest stipend and free housing is available at the Lacawac Sanctuary for the duration of the internship. A commitment of 20-30 hours per week is expected. Previous research experience is not required, but the strongest applicants will have experience and interest conducing environmental field and lab work, handling data, and communicating science with the public.

Submit letter of interest, CV, unofficial transcripts, application packet, and at least one letter of recommendation to Dr. Sarah Princiotta (sarah.princiotta@lacawac.org). More information and application packet can be found at www.lacawac.org/internships. Review of applications will begin on February 28, 2017.

 

2) REU in STEM Education at North Dakota State University

We are excited to announce the 5th year of our summer REU in discipline-based education at North Dakota State University. Our program is an excellent opportunity for students interested in learning and teaching of STEM at the undergraduate level. Over a 10-week period during the summer, students are immersed in a cohort of undergraduate scholars to get hands-on research experience in discipline-based education research. Students are housed on- campus and earn a $5000 stipend.

Students may have the opportunity to present their research at a national conference with travel support from our REU. Additional travel funding is available for travel to and from Fargo for those in financial need.

Our program begins May 30, 2017 and runs through August 5, 2017.

Applications due January 27, 2017.

For more information, including descriptions of potential research projects, please visit http://www.ndsu.edu/cider/reu/ OR email Jennifer Momsen (jennifer.momsen@ndsu.edu) & Warren Christensen (warren.christensen@ndsu.edu)

 

3) Summer field jobs in Yosemite National Park and the West

The Western Forest Initiative is hiring three field technicians for summer of 2017.

Forest Demography and Fire Effects: These positions will primarily involve the establishment of spatially-explicit forest plots in Yosemite National Park. The crew will navigate to areas within or near the footprint of the Rim Fire of 2013 (wilderness and non-wilderness) and then identify, measure, and map trees and snags in ¼ ha plots. The crew will receive training in mapping and demography in the Yosemite Forest Dynamics Plot and will work with investigators from Utah State University, the University of Washington, and the University of Montana on this Joint Fire Science Program funded project.

Duration: Late-May through mid-August, with the possibility for some staff to extend the season. The work schedule is four, ten-hour days per week. Because we don’t work under inclement conditions, the crew will need to be flexible.

Salary: $12.50 per hour. Campground accommodations are provided. Personal vehicle use reimbursed at $0.485/mile.

Qualifications: Previous experience taking vegetation research data, working safely in challenging environments, and following complex data collection protocols is required. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to solve problems, to work both independently and in teams of two or three, and to work with students and volunteers. Work will involve moving through rough terrain carrying delicate and expensive equipment, as well as carrying up to 15 kg of additional gear. Knowledge of western flora, tree pathogens, and forest insects is helpful, as is solid experience with outdoor living. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license and good driving history. Applicants need a Wilderness First Aid certification (Wilderness First Responder preferred) valid for the season.

Apply: Please assemble the following into a single PDF file and email it to james.lutz@usu.edu – 1) a one-page cover letter describing your reasons for applying, specific dates of availability (including any planned mid-summer absences, or a statement that you plan none), and confirmation of your first aid certification, 2) a resume, no longer than two pages, 3) unofficial transcripts, and 4) names, phone numbers and email addresses of three references.

Application deadline: January 31, 2017. Usually, we have made our staffing decisions by early February. Exceptional candidates will be selected earlier.

Additional information and background at: http://yfdp.org, http://westernforestinitiative.org, and the Facebook Group “Yosemite Forest Dynamics Plot”

 

4) Community-based reforestation in Kianjavato, Madagascar

Do you want to help save the world’s rain forests? What about lemurs – do you like lemurs? Would you like to do something about climate change?  If, yes, please join the volunteer program with Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

(OHDZA) and the Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership (MBP)!  We’re looking for highly motivated volunteers to join our on-going reforestation program in southeastern Madagascar.  This area is home to nine lemur species, several of which are critically endangered.  Habitat loss threatens the remaining yet unprotected forest fragments, but you can help.  We work with local communities to reconnect and expand natural habitats over the mountainous terrain around Kianjavato while sustainably benefiting the 12,000 area residents. This unique partnership has planted nearly 1,000,000 trees thereby helping the lemurs, their forest homes, and their human neighbors.

You’ll have a dynamic daily work routine; you may be working at the primary field station or at the multiple tree nurseries; you could be collecting seeds within an established forest; or at a field site preparing for a community planting event.  Duties may include sorting compost, placing seedlings into growing bags, organizing the tree inventory, transplanting trees with the local community groups or school children.  The ultimate goal of the reforestation program is to plant one million trees as a means to establish corridors between forest fragments and restore ecosystem services.  In order reach this substantial goal, there is a need for streamlining the reforestation effort – from seed collection, germination, and transplantation – and this is where the volunteers can make a significant and lasting contribution to the project.

The schedule for the reforestation volunteer may vary, but will operate during daylight hours, Monday through Friday, with members of the reforestation team and nursery staff arriving at the job site around 7:00am.  You will typically work with three other volunteers and a team of knowledgeable Malagasy field guides.

The reforestation team consists of rotating OHDZA employees, Malagasy MBP field assistants and graduate students, along with numerous nursery managers and assistants from the local community.

Adequate physical fitness is required.  We prefer volunteers with at least a BA or BSc in the biological or environmental sciences, tropical restoration and forest management experience is a plus.  Some independent research experience will be an advantage, as will work or travel experience in tropical countries.  A willingness to work in isolated conditions, the ability to solve problems independently, and dedication to a positive and respectful working environment are required.

For a more details, please visit the Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership at https://madagascarpartnership.org/volunteer/

Term of Appointment: Entry is required under a 90 day tourist visa, thus volunteers are limited to a 90 day stay.

Application Deadline: The positions will be filled by the first qualified applicants.

This in an on-going call for volunteers and we are currently looking for volunteers throughout 2017.

Applicants should send a letter of interest, curriculum vitae, and contact information for a few professional references to Dr. Ed Louis (mbp AT madagascarpartnership DOT org).

 

5) Are You Tomorrow’s Conservation Leader?

Montana Conservation Corps (MCC) is now enrolling Field & Youth Crew Leaders for the 2017 field season. Find yourself while getting lost in some of Montana’s most wild places. Serving as a Field or Youth Crew Leader with MCC will have a lasting impact not only on you, but also on the communities and landscapes that you serve. With MCC you’ll discover unexpected abilities within yourself, make lifelong friendships, and explore some of our country’s greatest wilderness areas.

Leaders earn a $626 biweekly living stipend while serving with MCC, and an AmeriCorps education award upon completion of the term of service. Learn more and apply here: https://careers-mtcorps.icims.com/jobs

 

6) Quantitative Position with the Mandurah Dolphin Research Project in Australia

We are excited to announce a mixed quantitative and field-based research  assistant position to study bottlenose dolphins in Australia. The position is open  from January 9th to February 28th 2017 for the Mandurah Dolphin Research  Project in Western Australia (WA).

The Murdoch University Cetacean Research Unit (MUCRU) commenced a research  project in January 2016 aimed at gaining a solid understanding of the bottlenose  dolphins using the Peel-Harvey Estuary (part of Ramsar Wetlands) and adjacent  coastal waters. The overall aims of the project are to characterize population size  and structure, habitat use and genetic connectivity of dolphins using the estuarine  and coastal areas.

We seek a dedicated and independent research assistant (volunteer) to run  capture-recapture computer simulations and statistical analyses. The research  questions will be focused on practical problems of estimating abundance and  demographic processes from photo-ID data, modelled after the ongoing field  studies conducted by the Mandurah Dolphin Research Project. The simulations are  expected to inform the survey design and analytical methodology of the overall  Project, and potentially contribute to scientific publications. In addition to  quantitative work, the assistant is expected to participate in boat-based dolphin  surveys with a team of biologists and field assistants.

The main duties include:

  • Simulations: write computer scripts to simulate dolphin movement patterns and capture-recapture data collection;
  • Batch analyses: write R scripts to analyze simulation datasets;
  • Data collection: spot dolphins, drive the boat, take photographs for photo-identification, record data;
  • Data processing: upload data, enter data, match fins, map sightings;
  • Literature: read and review capture-recapture literature to inform simulations and analyses;
  • General: maintain the boat and car, clean equipment.

Applicants are expected to have the following traits and qualifications:

  • can work independently;
  • intermediate or advanced proficiency in R (or another scientific computing language);
  • have prior experience debugging complicated computer code;
  • have the mathematical acumen to read, learn, discuss and implement basic statistical analyses.
  • have mental and physical stamina to endure long days on a boat under intense sunlight while collecting complex data according to a rigorous protocol;
  • have a mixed background in biology, ecology, statistics, and computer programming, including some combination of formal tertiary education (B.Sc.) and relevant internships/jobs.
  • additional preferred skills include boat handling, first aid, experience in photo-ID, experience in population ecology analyses (but not necessary).

The position would suit a student who is interested in a career in quantitative  ecology. Supervision will be by two PhD students specializing in different aspects of  capture-recapture. Ambitious and competent candidates may have the opportunity  to pursue their own research interests, e.g. for academic research credit, such as a  B.Sc. Honours project.

The boat-based data collection and data processing will be from the 9th of January  till the 28th of February 2017. Data collection (photo-identification and biopsy  sampling) will be conducted in inland waters to up to 12nm offshore. Data  collection is weather dependent and research assistants are expected to be  available full time during day light hours throughout the time they commit to the  project.

This is an unpaid position and assistants need to organise their own travel to and  from Mandurah, which is approximately 1 hr south of Perth in WA. The office space  will be in a research house where assistants are required to rent a room for a cost  of 150 AUD/week (inclusive of internet and bills) in shared accommodation. And  for your free time Mandurah has everything you can think of a holiday town to  offer (shops, cafes, bars, cinema, nature, hikes, camping, surfing, diving,  snorkelling, paddle boarding, kayaking, wildlife spotting, skydiving etc.) and  cosmopolitan Perth is only an hour away.

To apply for this position please send me a cover sheet specifying why you would  like to assist in this project, how you meet the qualifications, the time you are  applying for, your CV and names and contact details of two references to  <R.rankin@murdoch.edu.au>

 

7) REU Opportunity Summer 2016: “Research Experience for Undergraduates in Chihuahuan Desert Biodiversity”

The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) Department of Biological  Sciences invites applicants for the NSF sponsored Research Experience  for Undergraduates (REU) in Chihuahuan Desert Biodiversity.  This is a 10 week summer program.  The goal of this program is to provide  undergraduate students with experience in hypothesis-driven  collaborative research utilizing field based and/or laboratory methods  and fully engage students in projects associated with the ecology and  evolution influencing Chihuahuan Desert biodiversity.

The program provides:

  • High quality research experience in ecology and evolutionary biology in the field and/or lab • Research opportunities at the Indio Mountains Research Station (IMRS), a 40,000 acre facility controlled by UTEP •  One-on-one and group mentoring from active research faculty in  multidisciplinary fields • Training in bioethics and other relevant  professional skills

The program includes:

  • $5250 stipend for 10 weeks
  • Housing in shared apartments and field station • Travel reimbursement of up to $600

For more information on the program, research projects or to apply please visit: http://science.utep.edu/cdb-reu/ Enquiries: CDB-REU@utep.edu

Undergrad Research Opportunities 12/11/16

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1) NIMBioS REU

The National Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS) is now taking applications for its Summer Research Experiences for Undergraduates and Teachers (SRE). The program will be held June 5 – July 28, 2017, on the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, campus. Undergraduate majors in biology, math, and related fields, as well as high school teachers in biology and mathematics, will live on campus and work in teams with UT professors, NIMBioS researchers, and collaborators to conduct research. This year’s research projects include modeling bird mating patterns, seasonality in multi-host systems, La Crosse encephalitis spread, immune system response in host-virus conflict, and a project to develop computer games for teaching biology. Stipend and housing are provided along with some funding for travel.

Application Deadline:  February 15, 2017

For more information, visit http://www.nimbios.org/sre/

For more information about NIMBioS, go to http://www.nimbios.org or contact Kelly Sturner, NIMBioS Education and Outreach Coordinator, at ksturner@nimbios.org or Suzanne Lenhart, NIMBioS Associate Director of Education and Outreach, lenhart@math.utk.edu Interested high or middle school math or science teachers should send an email to Dr. Lenhart.

2) Seasonal Jobs at USDA Forest Service

Looking for a summer adventure? Interested in working for the Forest Service? Want to explore the Pacific Northwest? Take a look at seasonal job opportunities: http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/r6/jobs/?cid=fseprd512302

3) The Minority Science Writers Internship Program at Science

2017 Application Available Online
October 16 – February 1!

The AAAS Pitts Family Foundation Minority Science Writers Internship is for undergraduates who are interested in journalism as a career and who want to learn about science writing. In addition to improving their skills, the program seeks to make a dent in the demographics of the profession: Although science is a global activity, the journalists who cover it don’t reflect that diversity.

Funded by the Pitts Family Foundation, the internship takes place each summer at the Washington, D.C. headquarters of AAAS’s Science magazine, the largest interdisciplinary journal in the world. Interns spend ten weeks at Science under the guidance of award-winning reporters and editors practicing what science writers do for a living. They have a chance to meet leading scientists, attend conferences and hearings, and cover breaking news. Interns are expected to contribute to all facets of the news operation, including writing bylined articles for the print magazine and online news service, engaging in social media, and contributing to other news products.

Interns receive a weekly stipend as well as the cost of a round-trip ticket to and from Washington, D.C. The internship runs from early June to mid-August. This year’s application deadline is Feb. 1, 2017. To be eligible, applicants must be enrolled in an undergraduate academic program at the time they submit their application.

https://www.aaas.org/page/aaas-minority-science-writers-internship

4) Paid Undergrad Research Project in Belize

UT and the University of Florida are launching a new paid undergraduate research and extension project in Belize.  Student fellows will commit for 2 summers to conduct research and extension projects with a faculty mentor from UT or the UF on tropical agricluture, forestry, wildlife, economics, or human dimensions of wildlife conservation.  We are seeking applications from first and second year students as well as Juniors who intend to graduate at the end of Summer 2018 or December 2018.  More information and details on the application process can be found in this flier.  This project is open to all US universities and we encourage you to share with your friends.

5) Amphibian Field Technicians needed

The U.S. Geological Surveys Amphibian Research and Monitoring Initiative Northeast program will be hiring 2-4 student contractors/field technicians in 2017. Technicians will be hired for the spring & summer period (early March through July 2017).  Technicians may have the possibility of extension for work during the 2017 fall field season (September through October) dependent on availability of funding.

These technicians will conduct amphibian surveys in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, New Jersey and the District of Columbia. The technicians will work on a team that surveys for amphibians within National Parks and National Wildlife Refuges in the Mid-Atlantic region, including work in the mountains of Shenandoah National Park.  Surveys will include wetland-associated amphibians as well as stream salamander and terrestrial salamander populations. Field work involves identifying, catching, measuring, and marking amphibians, as well as collecting water quality and environmental data.

The students will be required to conduct field surveys using techniques including visual encounter surveys, dip netting, stream transect searches, temporary removal sampling, and conducting a mark-recapture study using visual implant elastomer. All fieldwork will be conducted as part of teams of 2-4 people, so a demonstrated ability and desire to work effectively with a group is imperative.  Additional assistance conducting surveys involving the federally endangered Shenandoah salamander and experiments with captive amphibian populations may also be required.

The position requires completion of academic coursework related to wildlife biology. Previous field experience with amphibians common in the Northeast US is highly recommended. The position requires the use of GPS units, digital cameras, and computer software for data entry and presentation (e.g. Microsoft Excel, Access). Technicians may also be asked to mark amphibians with injectable florescent elastomer and take voucher specimens related to amphibian disease studies. Most of the work is outdoors, sometimes under harsh or hot conditions or in rain/snow.

Technicians must be in good physical condition, as the job requires long hours in the field (including some night-time surveys) and hiking with up to 25 pounds of equipment for extended periods of time on rocky, steep terrain. The technicians must be willing to go on overnight field trips to Shenandoah National Park, VA, and other parks throughout the northeastern US, which will typically last 4-12 days at a time. Accommodations for overnight field work will be provided. Technicians must be able to work at least 40 hours per week. Technicians are responsible for all costs of transportation to and from Patuxent.

Government vehicles will be provided for all field work initiated from Patuxent. Housing costs are not included, but some housing may be available at the Patuxent Wildlife Research Center; please contact Andrew Dietrich if you have questions. Every attempt will be made to assist technicians in finding affordable housing in the area. Approximate wages are $13-16/hour; overtime pay is not provided.

Only applicants who are current or recent students (graduated within 12 months of the positions start date) are eligible for these student contractor positions.  Foreign students are not eligible for these positions.

Principal Duty Station:
USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center
12100 Beech Forest Road
Laurel, Maryland 20708-4038

To apply, send the following to Andrew Dietrich at the above address or via email (adietrich@usgs.gov; preferred) by January 9th, 2017:

1) Letter of intent (please specify when you will be able to start working)

2) Resume, including previous field experience, list of relevant course-work, contact information, and two or three reference contacts

3) One piece of evidence of current or recent (within past 12 months) enrollment in degree-seeking program (e.g., unofficial transcript, enrollment verification, or a current registration card; transcripts are preferred).  Candidates who graduated prior to May 2016 are ineligible.

If you have questions, feel free to contact Andrew at 301-497-5842.

Program Coordinator: Evan H. Campbell Grant, PhD NE Amphibian Research and Monitoring Initiative: USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, Conte Anadromous Fish Laboratory, 1 Migratory Way, Turners Falls MA 01376=20

phone: 413.863.3823 fax: 413-863-9810

armi.usgs.gov

Hughes Named as AAAS Fellow

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Prof. Karen Hughes has been named as a 2016 fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS).

Hughes was recognized for her contributions to research on biodiversity, biogeography, and the impact of climate on certain organisms. Her best-known focus is on the global distribution of fungi through DNA-based research. Hughes is also a leading expert on the diversity, spread, and growth of fungi in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

View the Tennessee Today press release.