Undergrad Research Opportunities 04/03/2017
1) REU Position Available – Northeastern Marine Science Center
BOWEN LAB, Marine Science Center, Northeastern University REU POSITION AVAILABLE
The Bowen lab focuses on how the structure and function of microbial communities are affected by human activities as well as how microbial communities alter their environment, from whole ecosystems like salt marshes to oysters, lobsters and plants. You can learn more about our research here: https://www.northeastern.edu/bowen_lab/
We are hiring one REU student for the summer to work on a project focused on salt marsh nutrient cycling. The REU will be trained in both molecular and biogeochemical techniques. Two possible projects for the REU to tackle include, though we are also happy to consider other project ideas that facilitate the student’s interests: 1) investigate the effects of sulfide on nitrate reduction pathways and microbial communities involved in these pathways in salt marsh sediments; 2) investigate the response of salt marsh fungal communities to nitrate addition.
The REU duration is 10 weeks, but timing is flexible. The student will be based at Northeastern University’s Marine Science Center in Nahant, MA. Public transportation from Northeastern Main Campus is available by shuttle (departs 9 AM, returns 5 PM) or students can drive to Nahant directly. Work outside of those windows of time will be necessary so having independent transportation, while not imperative, is desirable. The position comes with a $5000 stipend and $1500 to cover the cost of research.
We are particularly interested in mentoring students who are looking to pursue graduate education in the fields of ecology or environmental science, that have excelled in coursework at their home institution, and have expressed interest in academic research. Priority will be given to underrepresented and/or first- generation college students from under-resourced families and communities. If you are interested in applying for this position please send a resume, unofficial copies of your transcript, and a cover letter that describes your research interest and experience, and your future goals, along with the names and contact information for two letters of reference to Jennifer Bowen at je.bowen@northeastern.edu by April 15, 2017.
2) Job: Research Assistant in Pollinator Health Purdue University
Research Laboratory/Field Technician Position in Ecology/Entomology Department of Entomology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN
Position Summary: Salary: $10/hour. End-date: August 2017 with the possibility of extension.
Full-time field/laboratory technician position available starting end of April or first week of May 2017 in the Kaplan Lab at Purdue University. The research technician will assist graduate students and post- doctoral scientists with research focused in ecology and entomology. Specific position activities include data collection and analysis of an experiment examining the trade-off in pest management and pollinator health in watermelons. The position may also include work on many other insect ecology projects within the lab. The candidate will be responsible for organizing and managing field work, data collection, sample preparation, data compilation and overall maintenance of laboratory and field supplies. The technician must hold a valid driver’s license so that they can travel between the lab and field locations; a vehicle will be provided.
Successful candidates will have demonstrated organizational skills, the ability to work independently and collaboratively, pay close attention to detail and ask questions for clarity. Previous experience in field-based research, especially insect identification, is desired but not required. To apply please e-mail the following materials to John Ternest, jternest@purdue.edu 1) statement of interest, 2) CV, and 3) list of three references (names, email addresses, and phone numbers). Include all materials in one Word or PDF file, and include your last name in the file name for immediate consideration. Application deadline April 7 or until the position is filled.
3) Two REU positions in northern Alaska
We are seeking enthusiastic undergraduate researchers interested in summer field research in Alaska for two REU positions in the Bret-Harte and Ruess labs at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. Our overall research objective is to understand the ecosystem and global consequences of potential future changes in arctic vegetation. In this project, we are focusing on the mechanisms by which increasing abundance of large deciduous shrubs in tundra ecosystems may alter the near-surface cycling of C and N, and feedbacks to further vegetation change. You will assist with fieldwork in arctic tundra and laboratory work consisting of tasks such as plant sorting and data entry. You will collaborate closely with the principal investigators, graduate students, and technicians to develop an independent research project of your own that will build on the ongoing research, and will present your work at an informal symposium at the Toolik Field Station. In addition, you will attend weekly seminars on the research at the station. You will be based at the Toolik Field Station, north of the Brooks Range in arctic Alaska (http://toolik.alaska.edu), which is the focus of research by nearly >100 scientists who work on a variety of terrestrial and aquatic ecology projects. The positions will last approximately 10 weeks, starting in mid-June, though there is some flexibility.
Class background in plant ecology, botany, ecosystem ecology, statistics, and computer science would be an advantage. Experience in field or laboratory, experience with data analysis, and experience working in a remote field site is preferred. You should have skills with plant identification, data collecting and recording, data manipulation in Excel, and data analysis. You must be willing to work in the field, occasionally under adverse weather conditions. A valid U.S. drivers’s license is preferred. Competent, careful, emotionally mature, and enthusiastic people desired! We want the work to be both fun and challenging. You must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and currently enrolled in an undergraduate degree program, with graduation expected no sooner than fall 2017. You must provide a copy of your social security card at the time of employment. Women and minorities are especially encouraged to apply.
If you are interested in this position, send 1) a copy of your resume, including the names and contact information for 3 references, 2) a list of your coursework in biology, ecology, chemistry, and math/statistics, and 3) a cover letter than explains why you are interested, describes your background and research experience, and includes anything that you think would convince us that you are the most appropriate person for this position, to Syndonia Bret-Harte, msbretharte@alaska.edu by April 10, 2017. We will contact you to discuss the position.
4) Jobs: invasive plant crew leader and crew member positions
The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe in Cass Lake, Minnesota is hiring a biological technician/crew leader and multiple invasive species crew members for the 2017 summer field season. The following jobs are posted at http://www.llojibwe.org/jobs/llbojobs.html. See instructions for applying at the top of the page. The closing date for these postings is April 7, 2017.
Seasonal Biological Technician/Crew Leader ~ DRM ~ $13.00/hr. ~ Job Code: 17- 060 VALID CLASS D DRIVER’S LICENSE, SIGNED MVR FORM Summary; Responsible for assisting the DRM Botanist with a multitude of projects throughout the field season. Many of these projects deal with the control of invasive species found within the Leech Lake Reservation and Chippewa National Forest. Education/Experience: B.S. degree in Natural Resources Management, Biology, Forestry or equivalent studies preferred. Proven experience as a good crew leader is also desired. Duties/Responsibilities: Collect field data for the purpose of progress reports, plus maintain a daily log of activities. Insure the field crew is following protocol for all projects. Occasionally assist DRM Botanist in botanical surveys, assessments of plant communities, plus various other projects not related to invasive species control. Assist in the implementation of habitat enhancement projects for plants and/or wildlife on the reservation.
Seasonal Invasive Species Crew Member (6) ~ DRM ~ $12.00/hr. ~ Job Code: 17- 059 VALID CLASS D DRIVER’S LICENSE, SIGNED MVR FORM Summary: Responsible for assisting the DRM Botanist or Crew Leader with a multitude of projects throughout the field season. Many of these projects deal with the control of invasive species found within the Leech Lake Reservation and Chippewa National Forest. Education/Experience: Preference for individuals who are pursuing an A.S. or B.S. degree in Natural Resources Management, Biology, Forestry or equivalent studies. Interest and experience in the control of non-native invasive species. Duties/Responsibilities: Complete work and tasks in a timely manner as directed by the LLDRM Botanist or Crew Leader. Follow strict protocol for field work to insure goals are being achieved. Work under the direction of the Botanist and/or crew leader to implement a variety of control methods for invasive species (mechanical control, bio-control release, etc). Assist in the implementation of habitat enhancement projects for plants and/or wildlife on the reservation.
Please contact Katie Zlonis (wink0113@d.umn.edu) with any questions.
5) Internship: Costa Rican Birds
Intern needed for an ongoing project on bird conservation in San Luis de Monteverde, Costa Rica (near the famous Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve), conducted by Nate Nibbelink’s spatial ecology lab at the University of Georgia. Duties include mist netting and banding over 130 species of birds, attaching GPS transmitters to two species (Lesson’s Motmots and Blue-throated Toucanets), recovering transmitters via radio telemetry, conducting avian visual/auditory point counts, occasional vegetation surveys, and assistance with interviews of conservation organization personnel. These activities will require frequent early mornings. Position starts May 20 and lasts until mid-August (end date is flexible), with the possibility of extension until December 20. Housing will be covered, but intern is expected to pay for his/her flight to Costa Rica and meals.
The intern will have the opportunity to live and work in the tropics and experience a stunning array of biodiversity, including viewing and handling many different bird species. The intern will learn how to conduct avian point, band birds, use radio telemetry to locate transmitters, and strengthen his/her Spanish language skills.
Qualifications: Conversational Spanish ability, a passion for birds, a valid passport, a strong work ethic, and a capacity to work long hours (and early mornings) in the field in rugged terrain are required. Preference will be given to applicants with prior banding, radio telemetry, and/or point counting experience. To apply, send a recent CV highlighting your qualifications for the position and including contact information for three professional references with “Costa Rica Bird Internship” in the subject line to Cody Cox at codycox75@uga.edu.
Location: San Luis de Monteverde, Costa Rica Salary: $500/month (housing included) Start Date: 5/20/2017 Last Date to Apply: 4/21/2017 Contact Person: Cody Cox Contact email: codycox75@uga.edu Contact Phone: 404-964-9771
6) Field Technician I – Botany Needed Oak Ridge, TN
COMPANY OVERVIEW Battelle and its affiliate, Battelle Ecology, Inc. manages and operates the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEONTM)project, which is solely funded by the National Science Foundation. A 30+ year project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology, the observatory’s scientists and engineers are collecting a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. Our teams 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 automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. Once structures are completed, a leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory includes more than 500+ personnel and is the first of its designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales.
JOB SUMMARY The Field Technician reports to the Field Operations Manager and will be hired as a Field Technician I level depending on skills, experience, and education. • Field Technician I – The Field Technician I is a biological sampling lead performing seasonal and periodic sampling activities and sample processing. Seasonal field sampling is conducted with the assistance of temporary field crews under the guidance of the Field Technician.
LOCATION Based in the Appalachian-Cumberland Plateau, the research conducted at Domain 07 is primarily located within the Ridge-and-Valley Appalachians and Blue Ridge Mountain physiographic provinces. The domain is comprised of three research sites: 1] Core site (ORNL) at Oak Ridge, TN, 2] remote site (GRSM) at Great Smokey Mountains National Park, TN, and 3] remote site (MLBS) at Mountain Lake Biological Station near Pembroke, VA. The terrain at all three sites ranges from ridge-and-valley medium-cover deciduous forest with elevations ranging from 800 to 1200 feet, to heavily forested mountainous terrain with elevations ranging from 876’ to 6643’.
Domain 07 is host to one of the largest and most diverse stands of temperate old- growth forest in North America. Along with the splendor of the observation sites, Domain 07 also has trying aspects such as challenging off-trail hiking terrain, stinging insects, venomous snakes, and the occasional contact with a curious black bear or a territorial wild boar.
The climate of the domain ranges from the temperate in the spring and fall to the discordant in mid-summer and winter. While winters are cool, frequent snow events and ice storms can make travel problematic. Peak sampling in the summer can also be cumbersome with temperatures in the 90s and high humidity Nearby Knoxville is a regional destination for outdoor enthusiasts. If you love outdoors and crave a variety of outdoor activities, then D07 is the place to be.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Botany emphasis: • Lead, perform and coordinate plant phenology, diversity, biogeochemistry and productivity measurements. • Identify local flora to species using techniques including: general observation, field references, dichotomous key, comparison with identified specimens, or other identification methods. Local species identification skills are used to complete activities such as plant diversity observations, classification of phenological stages of local flora, and sorting of plants and debris into functional group or category. • Collect and process samples for activities such as clip harvest, biomass, canopy foliage and leaf area index measurements as well as vegetation structure measurements. • Map and measure structural metrics of free-standing woody stems.
General duties include: • Report activities, completed work, and sampling problems according to Field Operations protocols. • Inspect, maintain and operate field, safety and laboratory equipment. • Operate laboratory equipment (e.g. Wiley Mill, drying oven, analytical balance, centrifugal mill, pH meter, microscope, and muffle furnace). • Assist the Field Operations Manager with recruiting and training of seasonal field personnel. • Provide instruction and technical guidance to seasonal field personnel. • Perform plot establishment by locating plots with GPS navigation as well as measuring and marking plots. • Assist the Field Operations Manager with materials planning, inventory and ordering as well as day-to-day oversight of personnel and scheduling of activities coordinated from the field office. • Follow NEON safety and Field Operations policy and procedures.
Field activities may include: • Follow established, standardized field protocols for sample collection and handling; record and verify accuracy of data from sample collections; process samples in the laboratory; send samples to external analytical labs. Train and lead field crews performing the aforementioned items. • Perform other field sampling activities as assigned including: ground beetle collection (pitfall trapping), mosquito collection (CO2 light traps, tick collection (dragging and flagging) and soil core collection. • Test, troubleshoot and operate tower, soil and aquatic instruments, calibration equipment and test fixtures. • Inspect and maintain civil infrastructure including boom arms, sensor mounts, towers, boardwalks and instrument huts. • Monitor and sample aquatic sites for water quality, biological indicators and physical properties of site (e.g. gaging streams, geomorphic mapping).
Physical demands: • The work is physical and involves walking, hiking, prolonged standing, walking and bending. Heavy items (e.g. equipment and packs up to 40 pounds) must be lifted and carried on a routine basis. • Work environment: • Field work includes exposure to extreme weather conditions and terrain, pesticides, poisonous plants, biting insects, and wild animals. Tower work involves performing work on instrument towers ranging in height from 24 feet to 300 feet which will include ascending and descending multiple flights of stairs.
REQUIRED: EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS • Ability to work in a team environment. • Experience should include performing scientific data entry and data management. • Ability to hike off-trail to assigned field site for long distances carrying field equipment (pack weighing up to 40 lbs.) for extended periods of time. • Ability and willingness to travel overnight frequently (e.g. semi-monthly for 3-4 nights).
Field Technician I • Bachelor’s Degree in ecology, environmental sciences or related scientific discipline. • One (1) or more years’ of related experience.
Leadership: • Effective leadership skills and the ability to motivate others. • Effective problem solving skills and the ability to determine and act on changing priorities in a fast paced dynamic environment. • Ability to organize and execute multiple activities and priorities.
Skills: • Ability to perform minor troubleshooting, calibration, and repair of field equipment. • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions. • Ability and willingness to learn and adopt new technologies as needed. • Ability to work independently and as part of a team. • High level of attention to detail and accuracy. • Ability to make effective decisions that take into consideration safety and operational standards.
Working conditions: • Ability and willingness to work varied field operations schedules (up to 12+ hours per day), including split-shift, part-time, pre-dawn early mornings, evenings and weekends. • Ability and willingness to work on towers ranging in height from 24 feet to 300 feet including ascending and descending multiple flights of stairs on instrument towers. • Perform field assignments in a variety of terrain and of weather conditions including cold and wet winter weather and extreme heat. • Ability to withstand exposure to fumes, dust, and noise. • Ability and willingness to travel overnight frequently (e.g. semi-monthly for 3-4 nights) is required.
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.
This position offers competitive total rewards including 401(k), health, vision and dental insurance, paid time off and the opportunity to work at an organization with a great mission.
Battelle Ecology, Inc. provides employment and opportunities for advancement, compensation, training, and growth according to individual merit, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, genetic information, or disability. Our goal is for each staff member to have the opportunity to grow to the limits of their abilities and to achieve personal and organizational objectives. We will support positive programs for equal treatment of all staff and full utilization of all qualified employees at all levels within Battelle Ecology, Inc.
7) SciComm Intern in ESA’s Washington, DC office
ESA seeks an energetic ecology, biology, or environmental science student or recent graduate with strong communication skills to help raise awareness of events at ESA and the research published in our scholarly journals.
The communications intern will work with Liza Lester, ESA’s public information manager, to track news stories about the society and its publications, update webpages, and share society news through ESA’s social media channels. Though the primary duties are databasing, webpage upkeep, and social media messaging, there may be opportunities to write or produce other creative work for ESA’s news page, Ecotone, pending time available and demonstrated ability.
Specific Activities: * Data entry: track coverage of ESA in the news using Google search tools and record details in our news archive; collate information on presenters at ESA’s annual meeting * Web content: format graphics and text for publication on ESA webpages; locate and caption appropriate images to illustrate news items * Social media: create and schedule teasers for research articles, presentations, news, and events * Fact-checking: research biographical details and other background information for ESA news articles.
Qualifications: * Graduate student, senior undergraduate, or recent graduate of a biological or environmental sciences program * Experience and interest in ecological research and science communication * Demonstrated writing ability * Familiar with Microsoft Excel, Flickr, Twitter, and Facebook * Familiar with ESA scholarly journals a plus * Basic HTML skills a plus * Willing to perform data-entry and other basic tasks * Willing to learn as needed and follow directions * Must enjoy working effectively as part of a team * Ability to maintain confidentiality * Hours are flexible, but you must be available to work 10-20 hours per week in ESA’s downtown Washington, DC office during business hours (9am-6pm; M-F)
This is a paid, part-time internship based in ESA’s downtown Washington, DC office. The position is funded through June 30, 2017 and pays $15 per hour. Applicants must be available to work a regular schedule, 10-20 hours per week during business hours (9am-6pm; M-F).
How to apply: Please email a cover letter, resume, and a writing sample to Liza Lester, LLester@esa.org. Please put “Communications Intern” in the subject line. The position is open until filled.
8) IMMS Education Internship (Summer)
IMMS Education Internship (Summer) Internship Timeframe Deadline to Apply: April 15 Summer Internship: May 15 – August 4 *We may be able to offer some flexibility on dates, so please note earliest and latest availability on your application.
The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies (“IMMS”) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in 1984 for the purposes of public education, conservation, and research on marine mammals in the wild and under human care. Located in Gulfport, Mississippi, IMMS has been an active participant of the National Stranding Network since its inception. IMMS is the premier stranding organization in the Mississippi-Louisiana-Alabama region of the Gulf Coast with the capability and expertise to care for sick and injured marine mammals. IMMS serves as an important educational outlet for the Mississippi Gulf Coast, incorporating programs for conservation, education and research of marine mammals and their environment.
Program Description The IMMS Education Internship Program is designed as a way for students interested in a career in science education to gain valuable hands-on experience in a real-world informal educational setting. Interns will participate in our daily public programs that educate our visitors about marine mammals and sea turtles, as well as issues affecting their habitats. Summer interns will also spend at least one week in our Ocean Expo summer camp program working as an aide to a certified teacher. Interns will further their knowledge by working in other IMMS departments, including Research, Animal Care & Training, and Veterinary/Stranding. Our goal is to give Interns a well-rounded experience in a variety of areas while providing expert training and practical involvement in marine science education. This is an unpaid position and all interns are responsible for their own housing and transportation. Positions are limited and IMMS reserves the right to end an internship at any time.
Principal Duties -Demonstrate science concepts and interpret live animal displays for guests participating in: -Daily public tours, -Student field trips, -Mini Camp (Field experience for students from middle school to college), -Summer Camp (Day camp for ages 5 to 17, with off campus components), -Dozing with Dolphins (Overnight program for scouts and other youth groups), -Public outreach (Local events like boat shows or seasonal festivals). -Assist IMMS staff in preparing and maintaining program equipment and materials, including: -Organizing equipment and materials for daily use, – Cleaning and stowing equipment after use, – Making copies, – Running errands, – Cleaning display cases. As a component of the IMMS Summer Camp or Mini Camp program interns may have the opportunity to: -Serve as assistant on kayaking trips, -Serve as assistant on trips to Ship Island (Gulf Islands National Seashore).
Secondary Duties -Assist IMMS staff in caring for Education reptile collection: -Feed & weigh resident snakes, alligators and freshwater turtles -Update feeding & health records, -Clean and maintain wet and dry habitats.
As their departmental schedules permit interns may also: -Assist in the animal care department with daily feedings/cleanup/observation of trainingsessions, -Assist the aquarist with daily feedings, water chemistry, and maintenance of fresh and saltwatertanks and touch pools, -Assist in the research department with wild dolphin photo identification, -Attend a research boating trip to observe dolphins, if available, -Assist in the stranding department (turtle feeding, vet tech work, data input). -Attend a necropsy and a turtle release, if available.
Eligibility Requirements -Applicant must be 18 or older. -Applicants must be able to commit to a minimum of 12 weeks, 40 hours a week. -Applicant must be available to work weekdays, weekends, and holidays. IMMS operates 7 days per week and has some evening programs so your work week may not be 9AM – 5PM, Monday – Friday -Applicant must be a recent graduate or actively pursuing a college degree in the sciences or education. -Applicant must maintain a positive attitude, good work ethic, sense of responsibility, and a strong willingness to learn. -Applicant must be comfortable with public speaking and using a microphone. -Applicants should be comfortable working with audiences “K-to-Gray”, but especially elementary age children. -Applicant must be comfortable with handling different types of crabs and reptiles (snakes, alligators, turtles). -Applicant must have good organizational skills. -Applicant must be financially stable enough to obtain housing and transportation, once accepted, IMMS staff will be able to assist interns in suggesting suitable housing and locations. -Applicant must be able to comply with IMMS rules and regulations. -Applicant should keep in mind that the summer climate on the Gulf Coast is HOT and HUMID and that they will be required to work outside.
Please send the following documents to: acassel@imms.org with “Education Internship” in the subject line. -Download and complete the IMMS Education Internship Application (Save the application in pdf form to your computer FIRST then fill in the form. Otherwise your information will not be saved to the form when emailed) -Resume -Two letters of recommendation – provide one academic and one work/volunteer (related reference if applicable). Letters may be emailed from the applicant or the person providing the recommendation letter. -A one-two page statement of interest – describe your background, pertinent experiences, interests, and accomplishments (include how this internship will benefit you). If you believe you may have difficulty complying with one or more of the required duties or responsibilities due to a physical limitation or other reason, please address these concerns in the statement of interest. -A copy of your current college transcript. Applicants may submit an unofficial copy.
Documents must be in one of the following formats – .Pdf, .Doc, .Docx, and must be submitted together with your first and last name and the date (yyyy/Month) your internship would begin in the file name. Ex: 2015May_Jane_Doe_Resume 2015May_Jane_Doe_Statement 2015May_Jane_Doe_Transcript
9) Junior Research Specialist in Pollination Biology at UC Davis
A full-time one year field and lab resarch position working on pollination and native plant restoration for pollinators in the Williams Lab at UC Davis. Pay scale: $17.99/hr; eligible for health benefits Closing date: Apply by April 7, 2017 for full consideration by the committee; applications will be accepted until May 5, 2017 but those received after April 7 will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.
DESCRIPTION Job Summary: Full time position working on pollinator habitat restoration in agricultural landscapes Job Description: Native plant restoration for pollinators in the Williams lab at UC Davis. The successful candidate will assist with multi-faceted collaborative research exploring best methods to establish and maintain native wild flower habitat to support pollinators in California agricultural landscapes and the creation of scholarly output from these efforts. The responsibilities are multi-dimensional and require a person to link different project aspects effectively. She/he will participate in preparation and planting of research plots at UC experiment farm sites and grower-collaborator sites in CA. She/he will manage study plots for weed control and irrigation throughout the year. She will work with PI and senior staff to develop extension publications and coordinate activities (field days, presentations) on best management and planting design for varying landscapes and crop types. This will involve summarizing past research from literature and other sources and synthesis of current research efforts. The ideal candidate will have strong independent organizational skills and be able to assess changing field situations and make reasoned decisions for implementation on the fly, with input from advisors. The individual must have a desire to take ownership for field site operations and to translate operations to recommendations and best management recommendations. Essential Responsibilities: 70% — Communicate with a diverse network of local farmers to manage research plots on local farms. Assist with establishment, routine monitoring and ongoing maintenance of native wildflower restorations designed to bolster pollinators and pollination service. Assess restoration plantings for maintenance needs and implement maintenance independently and as crew lead, including hand-weeding, herbicide spraying, weed-whacking, flame weeding, mowing, setting up and operating irrigation infrastructure, installing solarization plots and operating seeders. Operate tractors, ATVs, backpack sprayers, broadcast sprayers, and other heavy farm equipment as necessary. 30% — Collect vegetation data within experimental plots. Observe and collect native bee and other insect visitors on wildflower plantings and crops. Assist with specimen curation and data entry.
Development goals • Develop expertise in wildflower plot establishment, maintenance and operations. • Gain expertise in sampling methodologies to assess pollinator habitat functioning. • Gain experience working with diverse farmer populations in Northern CA. • Develop working skills in data summary, basic spatial methods (GIS) and insect curation.
Physical Demands: • Work in the field and laboratory. • Work in proximity to all kinds of plant materials and insects. • Bend and stoop to hoe, weed and irrigate plots. -Maneuver/lift material weighing up to 50 pounds • Requires focus and energy to capture bees and other insects using a hand- held net. • Requires working in the field under hot sunny conditions for long hours
JOB LOCATION: Davis, CA APPLY ONLINE AT UC DAVIS: https://recruit.ucdavis.edu/JPF01505 REQUIREMENTS • Curriculum Vitae – Your most recently updated C.V. • Cover Letter (applications without cover letters will not be considered) • 3-5 references (contact information only) • Statement of Contributions to Diversity – Diversity contributions documented in the application file will be used to evaluate applicants. Visit http://academicaffairs.ucdavis.edu/diversity/equity_inclusion/index.html for guidelines about writing a diversity statement and why one is requested.
10) Job Outreach Announcement: Summer small-mammal trapping field technicians
Job Announcement: Summer small-mammal trapping field technicians GS – 4, 5, 6, 7 Duty Station: Alta, Sacramento, Placerville, CA Reply Due: April 12, 2017
If you are interested in receiving a copy of the vacancy announcement for this position complete the attached Outreach Notice Response Form and return it to eabelson@fs.fed.us.
This notification is being circulated to inform prospective applicants of this upcoming opportunity. If you are interested in receiving a copy of the vacancy announcement (job announcement) for this position complete the attached Outreach Notice Response at the bottom of this email and return it to eabelson@fs.fed.us.
POSITION INFORMATION: Temporary Biological Sciences Technician (Wildlife) with the USDA Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Research Station: Series 0404, Grade 4, 5, 6 and 7. Duty station: Alta, Sacramento or Placerville, California.
Start and end dates: At least three contiguous month period between May 2017 to end of September 2017
Salary: Approximately $2,500 – $3,500/month depending on GS grade (4, 5, 6 or 7)
Project description: Project focuses on wildlife movement in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California (study area falls in the general area of Auburn, Cisco and Nevada City, CA) with a duty station in Alta, Sacramento or Placerville CA (dependent on project needs). Understanding how roads isolate wildlife populations is critical to guide future mitigation efforts. This work aims at developing a better understanding of how structures that provide safe passage across the road (e.g. culverts) help connect wildlife populations on opposite sides of the road. We use small mammal traps, along with road-kill surveys, to examine the effects of roads broadly across the landscape.
Duties: Lead a team responsible for monitoring wildlife. Applicant should be responsible, organized and motivated. Field teams will predominantly be working with small-mammal traps but may also assist in road-kill surveys, camera-traps (remotely-triggered wildlife-cameras), and assessing underpasses for wildlife suitability. Field work will involve navigating and hiking across rugged terrain to field sites while carrying heavy equipment. Field work may also be largely focused on the road verges and will likely require extensive work on the road-side. During periods without field work, efforts will be focused on data entry and identifying wildlife species in camera-trap photos. Small-mammal trapping occurs in the early morning (6:00 AM – 10:00 AM) and again in the early evening (4:00 PM – 8:00 PM) to ensure small mammal safety.
Requirements: Must have experience handling small-mammals, working with small-mammal live-traps and California small-mammal identification. Applicant should have previous supervisory experience and be comfortable managing conflict. Applicant should be detail oriented with the ability to take careful notes in field and office settings (Microsoft Excel experience). Applicant should be in good physical condition with the ability to hike at high elevation and in rugged terrain while carrying equipment. Applicant should be comfortable working outdoors and in challenging field conditions (e.g. hot/cold) including along roadsides. Applicant should have basic competency using GPS/maps to locate field sites. Available to work full-time (40 hours/week).
Desired qualifications (not required): Driver license; experience with camera-traps, possibility to work alternative schedules (e.g. 4 days on with 3 days off; 40 hr/week average) & an interest in ecology and wildlife biology. PACIFIC SOUTHWEST RESEARCH STATION
If you are interested in this opportunity, please complete this form and send it by e-mail to eabelson@fs.fed.us Please respond no later than April 12, 2017 INTERESTED APPLICANT INFORMATION: NAME: EMAIL ADDRESS: MAILING ADDRESS: TELEPHONE NUMBER: TYPE OF CURRENT APPOINTMENT: (if applicable) PERMANENT –TEMPORARY –TERM CURRENT STATION/LAB/REGION/FOREST/DISTRICT: (if applicable) CURRENT PAY or SERIES AND GRADE: (if applicable) CURRENT POSITION TITLE: I AM ELIGIBLE FOR FEDERAL NON-COMPETITIVE HIRING AS: VRA (Veterans Recruitment Authority) SCHEDULE A (Persons with disabilities) Reinstatement (prior permanent career/career conditional employees) OTHER **Note: for candidates that do not understand what these authorities mean, or the criteria that needs to be met in order to be eligible for non-competitive hiring authorities, please see the information below. 30% or More Compensable Disabled Veterans: Temporary and career opportunities can be provided to qualified disabled veterans who were discharged because of a service-connected disability or retired with a disability rating of 30% or more, and have been rated by the VA since 1991 or later as having a compensable service- connected disability of 30% or more. OPM.Gov/Strategic Management of Human Capital Veteran’s Recruitment Authority (VRA): Allows for temporary and career opportunities for positions at grade levels through GS-11. Qualified veterans must be disabled or, have served on active duty during a war or in a campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge has been authorized or, received an Armed Forces Service Medal or, was recently (within the last 3 years) separated from active duty. OPM.Gov/Strategic Management of Human Capital
11) Santa Barbara LTER REU
A full time, three month REU internship is available as soon as May 2017. Successful applicants will assist the Santa Barbara Coastal Long Term Ecological Research (SBC LTER) project in its investigations of factors (environmental, physiological) influencing the availability and utilization of various dissolved nitrogen species by macroalgae (and phytoplankton) in giant kelp forests off the coast of Santa Barbara, California. The project is an excellent opportunity to apply concepts of general chemistry and biology to answer fundamental questions about the functioning of important, sensitive coastal ecosystems.
Please send a resume, a statement of interest, and the names and contact information of two references to Jason Smith jmsmith@ucsb.edu
Please apply by April 15th for full consideration.
12) Santa Barbara REU
A Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) summer fellowship is open for one student at the Marine Science Institute, University of California Santa Barbara. Duration is 12 weeks, June 3-Aug 29, although these dates can be somewhat flexible to accommodate academic schedules. We invite applications from qualified, highly motivated undergraduate students from U.S. colleges/universities to participate in a 12-week lab and field based summer research experience. U.S. citizenship is required. The student will be involved with an NSF-funded project on the transport of drifting kelp from coastal kelp forests to sandy beaches where it washes up as wrack. The main objective of the project is evaluate how variation in kelp wrack input affects patterns and processes in beach ecosystems and to develop a quantitative understanding of trophic connectivity through physical transport and input of drift kelp from kelp forests to sandy beaches. The student will learn ecological and/or physical oceanographic methods to explore this topic, and will be required to write a report, in the format of a scientific paper, and give a presentation on their project at the end of the summer. Travel costs to and from UCSB will be covered, and the student will be provided with a weekly stipend for living expenses. This is a full-time commitment and any work or educational activities outside the program must be approved.
Eligibility You are eligible if you are an undergraduate student who has completed at least two years of study towards a bachelor’s degree in a related topic (including biology, ecology, or physics), and you will still be an undergraduate in the fall after the summer program. Students from underrepresented groups and institutions with limited research opportunities are especially encouraged to apply. Experience with scientific diving is desirable but not required. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents of the U.S. and its possessions. The University of California is an equal opportunity employer and educator.
Application Interested applicants should send a statement of interest, resume, unofficial transcript, one letter of recommendation, and contact information for one additional reference. The statement of interest should be less than 500 words and include the following information: (i) professional goals, (ii) interest in position, and (iii) relevant experience. Send application materials, preferably in one PDF file, to Jenny Dugan (jenny.dugan@lifesci.ucsb.edu). Please include your name and REU application in file names and subject line. You may also send all application materials in hard copy by non-electronic mail service to: Jenny Dugan, Marine Science Institute, UCSB, Santa Barbara CA 93601-6150. The letter of recommendation should be sent directly from the recommender (please include the applicants name in the subject line for emails). Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applications will be accepted through April 21, 2016.
13) Summer Forest Technician positions
We are seeking 3 full-time summer field assistants from the beginning of June through mid August, 2017. We are looking for candidates that are interested and qualified for a project funded by Indiana University and the Smithsonian Institution’s Forest Global Earth Observatory. The positions will work as a team to re-census trees in an old growth forest near Nashville, Indiana. Qualified applicants should be: 1) adept at tree identification of eastern US hardwood species 2) familiar with basic forest mensuration techniques 3) be willing to work in various weather conditions and able to carry loads across rugged terrain. Other duties may include data entry and dendrometer band measurement and installation. The pay rate is $15/hr.
Send cover letter describing your interest and qualifications for the position and any conflicts with the time frame, resume or CV, and contact information for two references by April 19th to Daniel Johnson at djj4tree@gmail.com.