Archives for February 2017

Undergrad Research Opportunities 2/13/17

February 14, 2017 by armsworth

1) HJ Andrews Experimental Forest LTER REU position

We are seeking applicants for an NSF-funded Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) position in summer 2017 to examine small carnivore (e.g., weasel, western spotted skunk, Pacific marten) ecology at the H.J. Andrews Experimental Forest on the west slope of the Oregon Cascades near Blue River, Oregon. This project will focus on non-invasive approaches (i.e., camera trapping) to understand the spatial distribution and estimate populations densities of these small carnivores. This research will contribute to a larger PhD project on the small mammal and small carnivore food webs in the Pacific Northwest forest. As such, the student will be encouraged to participate in small carnivore captures and subsequent radiotelemetry.

The position will be based at the H.J. Andrews Experimental Forest and travel will be required for short trips to Oregon State University (Corvallis, Oregon). The Andrews Forest was established in 1948 as a US Forest Service Experimental Forest, and since 1980 is one of the National Science Foundation’s Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) sites. The field station has modern apartments with full kitchens, a well-equipped computer lab, and wireless internet (see http://andrewsforest.oregonstate.edu/ for more information on the site, facilities and research programs at the HJ Andrews Experimental Forest). The landscape is home to iconic Pacific Northwest old-growth forests of cedar and hemlock, and moss-draped ancient Douglas firs; steep terrain; and fast, cold- running streams.

The goal of this program is to provide undergraduate students an opportunity to participate in 10 weeks of mentored, paid, independent research. The program includes a weekly seminar series and an opportunity for the student to interact with a multitude of scientists, OSU faculty, federal scientists, and graduate students conducting research in the area. Participants will closely work with the PIs of the project (Drs. Taal Levi, Damon Lesmeister, and Clint Epps) and a PhD student (Marie Tosa) on the grant. The REU student will conduct supervised and guided research and be encouraged to tailor the research project to his/her own interests.

This position lasts for 10 weeks, starting May 29 through August 4, 2017, working at least 40 hours/week. Exact dates are flexible. The student will be responsible for 1) meeting all requirements of the mentors and 2) writing a final research report on his/her research experience. Housing and a weekly stipend of $550 will be provided ($5500 total). There are also some funds to defray the cost of traveling to the H. J. Andrews Experimental Forest.

Position Requirements: Applicants should have a valid driver’s license, the ability to carry a heavy pack (40+ lb) for moderate distances over uneven terrain, and be comfortable spending long days on their feet in the field. The position will involve working in inclement weather. Previous field experience and experience climbing trees are a plus. A general understanding of ecology is desirable. Eligibility is limited to currently enrolled undergraduates that have a graduate date no sooner than fall 2017. All applicants must be U.S. Citizens or permanent residents. Women, underrepresented minorities, and persons with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply.

To apply: Please submit a brief cover letter (1 page) indicating your interest, experience and professional goals after graduation, curriculum vitae or resume, transcripts (unofficial are acceptable) and 3 professional references (names, addresses, phone number, and email address) as 1 document to: tosam@oregonstate.edu. Please include in the subject: HJA REU 2017 Application. Only complete applications will be considered. Review of applications will start Feb. 19, 2017, and continue until a suitable candidate is identified.

Questions should be directed to: Marie Tosa, email: tosam@oregonstate.edu, subject: HJA REU 2017.

2) REACCH PNA Internship Undergraduate Opportunity

The REACCH 2017 Summer Internships are open for applicants. Please distribute to undergraduates at your institutions and through your organizations. Through these internships REACCH has served more than 70 students from across the country—improving our project through integration and research. Applications are due Friday, March 10, 2017.

Regional Approaches to Climate Change- Pacific Northwest Agriculture (REACCH PNA) is a USDA-funded, multi-institutional project focused on improving the long- term sustainability of agriculture within the region. REACCH partners (University of Idaho, Washington State University, Oregon State University and USDA-ARS) are teaming up to offer a total of 10, 9-week long, undergraduate internships across the three institutions.

Summer interns will participate in independent research, weekly seminars, and field trips. Interns will receive a salary of $500 per week for the summer internship and a travel budget up to $700. Summer interns will also be provided with housing, identification cards, access to a library, email and internet privileges.

Summaries of the available research projects for summer 2017 are provided here. In addition to field and laboratory research, the interns will participate in group activities where they will learn about one another’s projects, meet with faculty members from diverse disciplines, attend research and mentoring seminars, and visit research sites and other areas of interest in the region.

3) Summer REU Opportunity: Stream Ecology in Iceland

A Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) position is available at The Ohio State University for summer 2017 to study stream ecosystem metabolism in the context of global climate change and eutrophication with Dr. James Hood and graduate student Lyndsie Collis. The REU student will participate in the NSF-funded project “Interactive effects of temperature and nutrient supply on the structure and function of stream ecosystems” at The Ohio State University and in Reykjavik, Iceland.

Iceland project website: https://www.montana.edu/wcross/research/iceland.html

The successful candidate will join an international group of ecologists examining the influence of temperature and nutrients on stream metabolism and nutrient cycling. This research takes advantage of the unique geothermal environment in Iceland. Streams in Iceland’s Hengill region exhibit wide variation in ambient water temps due to spatial heterogeneity in geothermal activity. Our research leverages this spatial heterogeneity in stream temperatures to 1) develop theory, grounded in ecological stoichiometry and metabolic theory, for predicting the response of stream ecosystems to climate change and eutrophication, and 2) conduct experiments to understand how the temperature dependence of ecosystem metabolism varies across time scales and nutrient regimes. The student will work as a part of our team in Iceland on collaborative fieldwork and experiments. He/She will also develop an independent project.

The ideal candidate should be interested in perusing a career in ecology, hard- working, detail orientated and dedicated to his/her work. The student will start on June 1st, 2017 in Reykjavik, Iceland. We will provide a stipend of $500/week for nine weeks, round-trip transportation to Reykjavik, and support for lodging in Reykjavik.

Interested students should apply by Friday, February 24th, but applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Eligible students must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Students who have received their bachelor’s degrees and are no longer enrolled as undergraduates are not eligible. Applications should include an unofficial copy of transcripts, contact information for two academic references, CV, and a one-page statement describing your interest in the REU position, academic goals, and previous research experience.

Please send applications to: Lyndsie Collis (Masters Student, The Ohio State University) Email: collis.21@osu.edu

4) REU Opportunity Summer 2017: “Long-Term Resilience of the Chihuahua Desert Ecosystem”

Curious about how human-related disturbance impacts vegetation and soil in a fragile desert ecosystem? The Jornada Basin LTER in collaboration with New Mexico State University invites applications for a NSF sponsored Research Experience for Undergraduate (REU) in summer 2017. This 10-week experience enables you to investigate long-term impacts of different disturbance types on the resistance and resilience of desert vegetation, biological soil crusts, and soil properties. As an REU you will complete final (20th year) measurements on a unique study designed to determine how resilience is affected by disturbance type, frequency, intensity, and soil/geomorphic surface/plant and biological soil crust community. The study is replicated at 5 locations in southern New Mexico on and near the Jornada Basin LTER. You will work as part of a team collecting data on plant and biological soil crust community composition, soil aggregate stability and carbon flux rates. Additional measurements of soil hydrology may be included depending on time and interest. You may have the opportunity to serve as a co-author on one or more publications resulting from this 20-year dataset.

This REU experience provides you with:

High-quality research experience in desert ecology
Skills in field biology and laboratory methodologies
Opportunity to work alongside researchers from interdisciplinary fields at a NSF- funded LTER facility
Participation in the 1-day Desert Ecology short course taught by Jornada LTER scientists
Opportunity to disseminate results in presentations and scientific publications
A stipend of $8000 for 10 weeks

Requirements:

You must be enrolled as an undergraduate at an approved university for spring and fall of 2017.
Valid US driver’s license is required.
Ability to work full days outside in the sun, wind, and low humidity.
Interest and ability to stay overnight in field station lodging. Accommodations will be provided on-site with other researchers at the remote Jornada field station located 40 miles north of Las Cruces, NM.
Your travel to and from Las Cruces from your home will need to be paid from your stipend

Your application should include:

Letter of intent including statement of interest and previous research experience
Resume or Curriculum Vitae
Unofficial undergraduate transcripts

For more information on the Jornada Basin LTER please visit https://jornada.nmsu.edu/lter. You can find information on the research mentors here: Nicole Pietrasiak http://aces.nmsu.edu/academics/pes/nicole-pietrasiak.html; and Jeff Herrick https://jornada.nmsu.edu/lter/user/10156/view. Applications due: March 1, 2017. Please send your applications to Nicole Pietrasiak (npietras@nmsu.edu) and Jeff Herrick (jeff.herrick@ars.usda.gov)

5) Undergrad Researchers: Samford REU Program in Biology and Chemistry

With funding from the National Science Foundation, the 2016 Samford University REU program will offer hands-on, field- and laboratory-based research experiences to US undergraduates. In this 9-week residential experience, students will work one-on-one with experienced researchers in biology and chemistry to design, conduct, and present research related to the chemistry, genetics, and ecology of organisms, populations, and communities of Oak Mountain State Park, a large and diverse suburban park located in the southern Appalachians. Potential research topics include plant and animal ecology, microbiology, fire ecology, water quality, biochemistry, plant and fungal natural products chemistry and bioactivity, plant taxonomy, and aquatic community ecology. Application Deadline: February 14, 2017 Program Timeline: May 29–July 29, 2017

$525 per week stipend
Travel, room, board and research expenses covered
12 students will be accepted into the program Reasons to Apply
Explore the worlds of field and laboratory research
Explore your career opportunities as a working scientist
Work closely with expert scientists to develop your own project
Develop your understanding of scientific ethics and social justice
Spend the summer at Oak Mountain State Park, Alabama’s largest state park

Application Process: All application materials should be submitted electronically to reu@samford.edu by February 24, 2017. Students must be US citizens or Permanent Residents and have completed two years of undergraduate study by May 2017, including one year of college-level biology. Students must be enrolled in an undergraduate program at accredited institutions in the United States at the time the REU program is held. Please submit:

Application Form
Transcripts
Letters of Recommendation
Personal Statement

For more information, go to http://www.samford.edu/programs/undergraduate/research-experience/ or email reu@samford.edu. R. Malia Fincher, Ph.D. Associate Professor Samford University Department of Biological and Environmental Science 800 Lakeshore Drive Birmingham, Alabama35229 rmfinche@samford.edu 205-726-2928 Fax 205-726- 2479 Office 133 Propst Hall

6) Summer Research Internships Available – Shark Research & Conservation Program @ University of Miami

The University of Miami’s Shark Research & Conservation Program is seeking motivated students to apply for summer research internships.

Internship details and application can be found here: https://sharkresearch.rsmas.miami.edu/participate/summer-research-program/

Science & Conservation: The research mission of this internship will be to assess the ecology and biology of shark in relation to urbanization and climate stressors. Research activities will include shark abundance surveys, tagging, and tracking as well as physiological sampling and associated laboratory analyses.

Internship opportunities: The Project provides immersive internships for students to gain research training and engage in scientific inquiry through participation with University of Miami scientists and staff. Participation involves scientifically sound practices and measurable outcomes in marine conservation biology.

Sea & Lab: Each research internship will be two weeks in duration, composed of both boat-based and laboratory research work at the University of Miami. The first week will primarily involve boat-based research and the second week will be primarily devoted to laboratory work.

Application can be found: https://sharkresearch.rsmas.miami.edu/participate/summer-research-program/

7) Science Communications Internship

Smithsonian Bicoastal Science Communications Internship

Stipend: $500/week Time: 18 weeks (April-August or May-September 2017) Start Date: Flexible, between April 1 and May 15 Location: Edgewater, Md. and Tiburon, Calif. Application Deadline: February 15, 2017, 11:59 p.m. PST

Description: Gain hands-on experience with environmental communication on both sides of America! The Smithsonian Environmental Research Center is seeking an intern to work for 18 weeks, from April through August, covering the work of SERC researchers in Maryland and California. The intern will start at SERC’s Chesapeake Bay headquarters in the spring, getting training in SERC science communications. In the summer, the intern will travel to San Francisco Bay to cover the work of SERC marine biologists in California for the remaining 10 weeks. Travel funds from Maryland to California are included.

The intern will learn multiple facets of SERC communications, gaining experience in science writing, social media, and Web design. · The intern will learn to interview scientists, shadowing them in the field and translating complex research into smart, exciting articles. · The intern will summarize her/his accomplishments in a public seminar at the end of the project period under the supervision of the communications coordinator. · The intern will gain professional development by attending monthly meetings on the National Mall with the other Smithsonian public information officers.

Spring (Part I): Chesapeake Bay The intern will spend the first eight weeks at SERC’s headquarters in Edgewater, Md. There, the intern will interview SERC scientists in the field and the lab and write about their work. This first part of the internship will introduce the intern to the main features of SERC science communications: writing articles for the SERC Shorelines blog, preparing posts for SERC’s social media and assisting in the production of SERC’s quarterly newsletter On The Edge, under the mentorship of SERC science writer Kristen Minogue.

Summer (Part II): San Francisco Bay For the final 10 weeks, the intern will work in California, with the Tiburon section of SERC’s Marine Invasions Research Lab. SERC’s Tiburon branch is hosted at the Romberg Tiburon Center, a marine field station of San Francisco State University. SERC marine biologists in Tiburon work in San Francisco Bay and traverse the Pacific Coast studying invasive species, oyster restoration, and other critical conservation issues. There, the intern will cover the work of SERC’s West Coast scientists while exploring and developing communication strategies within the Pacific market. During the California part of the internship, the intern will work under the onsite supervision of research ecologist Andrew Chang and correspond with Kristen Minogue via Skype.

Pre-Requisites: Strong scientific background (natural sciences coursework; not required to be a science major) and skill writing about science for a nonscientific audience. Ability to use Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint) required; familiarity with photo editing software, WordPress, and HTML a plus.

To apply: Send a cover letter, resume with references (name, title and contact information) and unofficial transcript to ScienceWritingIntern@si.edu by 11:59 PST February 15, 2017. One to three published or unpublished writing samples explaining science for general readers is also essential to include for the application to be considered. For more information visit http://serc.si.edu

UT Undergrad Research Events Spring 2017

February 14, 2017 by armsworth

1) Summer Undergraduate Research Internship Program

Students interested in pursuing research during the summer months may apply for funding through the Summer Undergraduate Research Internship Program. The summer internship program promotes research and creative activity among undergraduate students. All current full-time undergraduate students enrolled at the Knoxville campus are eligible to apply. Students graduating in May or August 2017 are not eligible. Over 40 students will be funded during summer 2017. The deadline to apply is February 12. http://ugresearch.utk.edu/summer-research-internships/

2) EURēCA – Exhibition of Research and Creative Achievement

Students who have conducted research under the guidance of a UT Faculty Mentor may enter this annual event that showcases research and creative activities by currently enrolled undergraduate students. Students may enter their research at the methodology, partial results, or complete research phase. Creative works are also accepted. Awards range from $100 to $400 and students may win multiple awards. The abstract submission deadline is March 11. http://eureca.utk.edu/

3) Undergraduate Research Symposium

The Undergraduate Research Students’ Association (URSA) will be hosting the Symposium, which provides a space for students to present their research to a general audience. The abstract submission deadline is February 26. http://ugresearch.utk.edu/activities/undergraduate-research-symposium/

4) The Undergraduate Awards

The Undergraduate Awards is a prestigious and international academic awards program, which is wholly pan-discipline. It aims to celebrate and support the world’s brightest and most innovative undergraduate students by recognizing their best coursework and projects. The submission deadline is May 1. http://ugresearch.utk.edu/activities/the-undergraduate-awards/

Undergrad Research Opportunities 2/6/17

February 14, 2017 by armsworth

1) Amphibian research assistants needed

– Field research assistant: Field work involves surveying amphibian populations in and around the Fort Polk military base near Leesville, LA and the Pymatuning Laboratory of Ecology near Linesville, PA, for chytrid fungal pathogens. Requires both day and night work capturing, swabbing, and processing amphibians, hiking in and out of sites, and deploying and checking pitfall traps and coverboards. Must have a valid drivers license and experience with 4WD and driving in rough terrain, be physically fit, and have experience identifying amphibian species. Proven record of field experience is required. Must be willing to travel in between the two locations and work with diverse field teams. When stationed in Linesville, PA, help with animal husbandry of amphibian colonies would be required during days not spent in the field. This position could extend from mid April to September if interested and available.

– Mesocosm and animal husbandry assistant: Mesocosm work involves maintaining and monitoring a large-scale mesocosm experiment, including taking measurements, checking water levels/quality, and removing metamorphosing animals and maintaining them in a field laboratory. This assistant will also likely help with field research at the PA site, and so field research experience is desirable. Will be located in Linesville, PA from May- August, and a valid drivers license is required.

Positions are paid hourly, and housing in Linesville, PA and near Fort Polk, LA is provided. Travel between Louisiana and Pennsylvania for the field assistant position is also provided.

To apply, please send a cover letter and CV and contact details for two references to Dr. Michel Ohmer (michel.ohmer@pitt.edu) and Dr. Laura Brannelly (laura.brannelly@pitt.edu) by March 15th, 2017. http://www.rzlab.pitt.edu

2) Smithsonian Bicoastal Science Communications Internship

Stipend: $500/week Time: 18 weeks (April-August 2017) Location: Edgewater, Md. and Tiburon, Calif. Application Deadline: February 10, 2017, 11:59 p.m. PST

Gain hands-on experience with environmental communication on both sides of America! The Smithsonian Environmental Research Center is seeking an intern to work for 18 weeks, from April through August, covering the work of SERC researchers in Maryland and California. The intern will start at SERC’s Chesapeake Bay headquarters in the spring, getting training in SERC science communications. In the summer, the intern will travel to San Francisco Bay to cover the work of SERC marine biologists in California for the remaining 10 weeks. Travel funds from Maryland to California are included.

Qualifications: Strong scientific background (natural sciences coursework; not required to be a science major) and skill writing about science for a nonscientific audience. Ability to use Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint) required; familiarity with photo editing software, WordPress and HTML a plus.

To apply, send a cover letter, resume with references (name, title and contact information) and unofficial transcript to ScienceWritingIntern@si.edu by 11:59 PST February 10, 2017. One to three published or unpublished writing samples explaining science for general readers are also essential to include with the application to be considered. For more information visit http://serc.si.edu

3) The John Marshall Everglades Internship

The Everglades Foundation is accepting applications for the John Marshall Everglades Internship. During this 8-week (May 18th – July 14th) undergraduate internship program, qualified students will learn about the Everglades ecosystem, history, water management issues, and policies related to Everglades restoration. Interns will go on site visits to: major restoration sites, water management structures, and effected natural areas. They will grow their professional networks while meeting with scientists, stakeholders, and policy makers who are participating in the most comprehensive restoration project in the world. Interns select from one of four categories for their capstone projects: policy & advocacy, science & engineering, education, and communications.

For more information about the program and how to apply, please see our website: http://www.evergladesfoundation.org/opportunities/internships/

4) REU opportunities studying the effects of the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill on Louisiana salt marshes and coastal environments

Two Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) positions are available at the Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium (LUMCON) for the summer of 2017. The REU students will design and conduct studies that contribute to the larger Coastal Waters Consortium (http://cwc.lumcon.edu) collaborative effort studying the effects of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill on Louisiana salt marshes and coastal environments. Over the past 5+ years CWC researchers have been studying the impacts of the spill at paired oiled-unoiled marshes across the southeastern Louisiana coast. The REU students will be expected to work with a team of researchers (under the supervision of Dr. Brian Roberts (http://robertsresearchlab.weebly.com/) and/or Dr. Nancy Rabalais) to develop studies which address aspects of the larger effort. We are particularly interested in students interested in conducting projects on wetland biogeochemistry and ecology, plant ecology, microbial ecology, sediment microalgae and/or subtidal benthos. The REU students will be involved in both the field and laboratory components of their project as well as a variety of related projects and experiments being conducted by other LUMCON and CWC researchers.

Candidates must be available for a ten week period beginning in early June 2017. We will provide a $500/week stipend, room and board at the Marine Center in Cocodrie, LA (http://www.lumcon.edu), and support for their research.

Applications should include: copy of unofficial transcripts, contact information for two academic references, CV/resume, and a one page statement that describes your interest in the REU position, academic goals, and any previous research experience. Applications should be sent to Dr. Brian Roberts at broberts@lumcon.edu with “2017 REU application” in the subject line by March 15th 2017.

5) Call for Applications: University of Wisconsin REU in Mathematical Ecology

The University of Wisconsin – La Crosse Department of Mathematics and Statistics is proud to offer a 10-week Summer REU in mathematical ecology, held in the beautiful city of La Crosse, Wisconsin. This summer program will provide eight summer scholars with the opportunity to perform cutting-edge research under the mentorship of university faculty and government scientists working at the interface between mathematics and ecology.

Our two projects are “Using Decision Models to Investigate Interventions Against Fungal Blight in American Chestnut Trees”, mentored by Martin Allen (Computer Science) and Anita Davelos Baines (Biology), and “Investigating Population Level Animal Movement Through Fractal Geometry”, mentored by Kevin Aagard (United State Geological Survey) and Robert F. Allen (Mathematics). You can find information on the projects and how to apply at uwlax.edu/mathematics/activities/reu/

Program Dates: June 5, 2017 – August 11, 2017 Stipend: $5000 and a $75 weekly food allowance. Priority Deadline: February 1 th Application Deadline: March 1st

6) NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) summer position- Minnesota

Ruth Shaw’s Research Group in the Dept. of Ecology, Evolution & Behavior at the University of Minnesota is seeking applicants for an NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) position in summer 2017 to study the process of ongoing adaptation in experimental populations of partridge pea (Chamaecrista fasciculata) in prairie habitat. The student will work closely with Dr. Ruth Shaw and Dr. Mason Kulbaba to develop an independent project in the area of plant evolutionary genetics, with possibilities ranging from studies of heritability and phenotypic selection on plant traits to studies of pollination ecology and phenology. The student will gain invaluable experience in performing field work and in conducting an independent research project, from hypothesis formulation through oral and written dissemination of results, as grounding for future work in inquiry-based scientific research.

The student must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and enrolled as an undergraduate for Fall 2017. The ideal candidate should enjoy working outdoors and have an interest in learning about the evolution and ecology of plants in the Midwest prairies, and candidates planning to pursue a graduate career in evolution, ecology, or conservation biology are particularly well-suited for this position. The REU intern will receive a stipend of $5,000 and room and board in the Twin Cities (with occasional overnight travel to field sites). Costs of travel to and from the Twin Cities will also be provided. The deadline to apply for this position is March 10, 2017, and the 10-week internship is expected to begin on Monday, June 5 and end on Friday, August 11.

To apply, please e-mail the following application materials to Mason Kulbaba (mkulbaba@umn.edu) with the subject line “REU” no later than March 10, 2017: 1. a statement explaining the following: • why you are interested in this position • what are your future plans • dates you are available to start and end this position • confirm eligibility for the REU program • the name and contact information of the person who will serve as your reference • your e-mail address and phone number 2. resume 3. transcript (unofficial is acceptable) 4. 1 letter of recommendation (sent by your reference)

7) Gray Vireo REU Positions at Sevilleta NWR, NM

The Sevilleta Field Station is seeking applicants for Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU). Application deadline is February 24, 2017. We are looking for 10 Biology REU students for the Summer of 2017. This interdisciplinary REU Site Program at the Sevilleta Field Station in central New Mexico will train undergraduate students who will conduct independent research under the guidance of UNM faculty in Biology, Ecology, Civil Engineering, and Earth and Planetary Sciences, along with scientists from Federal and State agencies. The summer program includes a seminar series, a weekly journal club, an annual symposium, professional development workshops, toastmasters, ethics training, field trips, and opportunities to interact with a multitude of scientists conducting research in the area. Students will conduct independent research in and around the Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge (SNWR) and present their projects at the annual symposium to be held in early August 2017. Working at the Sevilleta Field Station and SNWR site invites close interactions among students, faculty, federal scientists, and graduate students.

Students will have numerous opportunities to share ideas and explore issues within and across disciplines. The program’s goal is to increase exposure to a large, multidisciplinary research program, inspire students to continue into professional careers, and prepare students for the rigors of graduate school, professional research, and responsible citizenship. The program exemplifies the integration of research and education. As students conduct research, they will learn how to be an independent scientist, along with many technical, methodological and ethical issues that arise in scientific research.

Lodging and laboratory space for REU students will be provided by the UNM Sevilleta Field Station at NO COST to the student. In addition, candidates chosen will receive a stipend of $5500 and a $500 food allowance during the 10-week summer program that will run from May 29 – August 4. We will also refund travel costs to and from the UNM Sevilleta Field Station up to $600 (stipulations apply). See https://sevilletareu.wordpress.com/ for more information.

8) Internship: Population Biology Intern at Lincoln Park Zoo

The Conservation and Science Department at Lincoln Park Zoo is seeking a population biology intern for summer 2017. The intern position is a full-time 12 week paid position which would involve entering individual animal and population data and conducting preliminary analyses in support of Population Management Center (PMC) and Alexander Center work. This position provides a great opportunity to learn about the science of population biology and the management of zoo and aquarium populations from nationally recognized experts.

The PMC is the only center of its kind providing scientific advice and logistical assistance to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) cooperatively managed animal populations. The goal of the PMC is to help maintain healthy zoo populations, which is accomplished by: 1) assisting zoo professionals in validating and standardizing their “studbooks” (databases which record the histories and pedigrees of individual animals of a particular species) 2) conducting analyses to assess the demographic and genetic status of populations and 3) collaborating to produce breeding and transfer recommendations for every animal held at each zoo or aquarium participating in the managed population.

JOB FUNCTIONS • Data extraction from zoo population databases & management plan reports; • Data entry; • Analyses of data from zoo populations; • Attend Lincoln Park Zoo, Population Management Center, and Alexander Center-related activities as necessary; • Other research and administrative duties as assigned by PMC/AC staff.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: • Working knowledge of PCs, using word processing, spread sheet and database software • Highly motivated, good problem solver, and detailed-oriented • Ability to clearly communicate verbally and in writing • Ability to read and understand written and oral instructions • Ability to organize tasks to ensure timely completion of all project • Ability to learn new software packages relatively quickly • Ability to work at computer for 6-7 hours per day • Database and records are confidential; discretion and ability to maintain confidences are essential • Ability to represent the Lincoln Park Zoo in a professional manner at all times • Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, zoo visitors and general public

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS • B.S. or B.A. (in progress or completed) in biological sciences or related discipline. Candidates with a background in statistics, mathematics, or computer programming will also be considered • Interest in population biology, genetics, demography, & conservation • Experience with Microsoft Excel and Word required • Experience in a research setting, as a research or project assistant is desirable • Familiarity with zoo population management or specialized population management software such as PopLink, SPARKS, PM2000, PMx, ZooRisk, VORTEX, or PMCTrack is desirable but not essential

LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Gain knowledge of the foundational concepts in population biology and genetics, and how they can be applied to the management of zoo and aquarium populations and other intensively managed populations • Learn about and assist with the process of producing breeding and transfer plans • Gain knowledge of and experience with demographic and genetic analyses and the relevant software used for population management

Please submit a resume, brief cover letter highlighting your relevant experience, interests and career goals, and college transcripts (unofficial are fine) to Human Resources Department Lincoln Park Zoo, P.O. Box 14903 Chicago, IL 60614 or submit as attachments by email to hrjobs@lpzoo.org.

9) Summer Undergrad Internship in Ecology and Land Management in Westchester County, NY

Mianus River Gorge, a conservation organization and 850-acre nature preserve in Westchester County, New York, offers four 8-week summer internships for college students interested in the conservation of natural areas in urbanizing landscapes.

–Internships last for a period of 8 weeks. This year the internship will run from Jun 9 – Aug 4. Longer internships may be available upon request. — We generally must give preference to local students or those that can commute, as summer housing is not always guaranteed. — Each intern will work alongside Gorge staff and graduate students on a variety of projects including wildlife monitoring, non-native species management, and GIS applications. The internship is a mix of performing research and enacting management plans. — Interns will work with and supervise high school students in our authentic research program (Wildlife Technician Program). — We work with our interns to provide a learning experience that fits their interests and long-term educational goals. — Stipend: $125/week (5 days a week) or combination of school credit and stipend (depending on university requirements).

Projects for 2017 include: o Monitoring coyotes and other wildlife in NYC and Nassau County o Vegetation sampling, monitoring, and restoration o Wetland functional assessment throughout our watershed o Invasive species control and other land management work o Data management and analysis on several long-term projects

Additional info: http://www.mianus.org/what-we-do/research-and- education/undergraduate/internships-in-suburban-ecology/

Cover Images for Matheny Lab

February 13, 2017 by armsworth

Marisol Sanchez-Garcia (PhD 2016), former Matheny Lab member and now a postdoc at Clark University, landed a paper on ectomycorrhizal diversification on the cover of Evolution for January 2017.

Also, Biz Sheedy, a visiting grad student to the Matheny Lab from Melbourne, has a paper on the diversification of truffle-forming fungi in Australia on the cover of Australian Systematic Botany (Volume 29 numbers 4-5).

Iversen (PhD 2008) Receives ESA Fellowship

February 9, 2017 by armsworth

EEB adjunct professor and alumna Colleen M. Iversen (PhD 2008) has been named as an Ecological Society of America Early Career Fellow for 2017. Fellowships are awarded to young scientists who advance the science of ecology and show promise for continuing contributions.

Iversen is a Senior Staff Scientist at the Climate Change Science Institute and Environmental Sciences Division at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. She was elected for her leadership and creativity in linking experimentation and modeling to advance ecological understanding of the influence of fine plant roots on the fate of vast pools of carbon and nutrients held in the soils of diverse biomes.

Sheldon Featured in Entomology Today

February 9, 2017 by armsworth

Kimberly Sheldon was recently featured in Entomology Today for her work on climate and thermal limits in beetles. This is a cool example of outreach to a broader population (many entomologists are not focusing on evolution and ecology).

The feature was based a study Sheldon published in 2014:

Sheldon KS, Tewksbury JJ, 2014. The impact of seasonality in temperature on thermal tolerance and elevational range size. Ecology 95(8):2134-43.

Darwin Day Events 2017

February 3, 2017 by armsworth

This year marks the 20th year of Darwin Day celebrations at UT! Mark your calendars for the following events, and view the flier!

2/5/2017 Darwin’s Birthday Party
2 – 4 pm McClung Museum
Free Party with cake for children!
2/13/2017 Evolution and Science Parade
12pm The Hill & Pedestrian Walkway
Come see Darwin, Wallace (Puppets!), and their friends in support of the study of evolution and science parade around UT!
2/13/2017 Dr. Stacey D. Smith Keynote Lecture
7pm AMB Cox Auditorium
Beg, borrow and steal: The nefarious history of flower power
2/14/2017 Dr. Massimo Pigliucci Lecture
NimBIOS 3:30 pm Room 206

For more details please see http://darwindaytn.org/