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Undergrad Research Opportunities 02/28/2017

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1) REU Opportunity Summer 2017: “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 a10 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 • $5250 stipend for 10 weeks • Housing in shared apartments and field station • Travel reimbursement of up to $600

Deadline March 6. For more information on the program, research projects or to apply please visit: http://science.utep.edu/cdb-reu/

2) Research technician, Georgia Coastal Ecosystems LTER

The Georgia Coastal Ecosystems Long-Term Ecological Research program seeks a Research Technician II to support field and laboratory research on the GA coast. Tasks include measuring plant and invertebrate populations, measuring water quality, monitoring sediment dynamics, downloading and maintaining climate and hydrological instruments, and data entry. Applicants should have a BS in an environmental field, some field experience, and some boating skills. For more information about the GCE LTER program go to http://gce-lter.marsci.uga.edu/

3) Ecology Field Research Interns

B4WARMED (Boreal Forest Warming at an Ecotone in Danger) is a manipulative experiment that warms plants and soil in the field to examine tree seedling response to warming with respect to physiology, phenology, growth, and survival.  For more information: https://forestecology.cfans.umn.edu/research/climate-change.

Position overview: We seek one independent and mature field assistant with a background in biology, ecology, environmental science, forestry, or a related field for a paid field research internship ($10/hr).  The positions start in late March and go until early November start dates are flexible. In general, an internship lasts about 4 months. Typical workdays are eight hours Monday through Friday, however tasks may require early morning, evening, or weekend work. A valid driver’s license is required. The intern will work and travel mostly independently and occasionally in a pair or small group. Maturity to work autonomously and for long hours is required.

Responsibilities: •            Work independently to collect biotic and abiotic data in field and lab settings in accordance with established protocols •          Measure seedling growth, germination, physiology, and phenology •            Measure soil characteristics and microbe activity •             Routine maintenance of field sites and research equipment. •     Data entry using Excel and Google Drive •   Travel frequently between sites •             Employ experimental drought treatment •       Aiding principle investigators and graduate students as needed.

Desired qualifications: 1) Eagerness to work hard in an outdoor setting. 2) Capacity to collect data following established protocols. 3) Familiarity with plant and tree species of northern Minnesota. 4) Willingness to work well and live with alone and with others in a remote area. 5) Demonstrated ability to work under changing weather conditions and with large swarms of insects. 6) Ability to adapt to a frequently changing schedule with frequent travel.

Field work will be split between research sites at the Cloquet Forestry Center in Cloquet, MN (http://cfc.cfans.umn.edu/) and the Hubachek Wilderness Research Center near Ely, MN.  Both research sites are in beautiful forested settings and provide access to the natural areas of northern Minnesota including the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. An individual’s home base will be at either of these locations, though travel between sites will be required depending on project needs. University vehicles are used for such travel. On-site housing with furnishing and a kitchen will be available for $150/month.

Highest priority will be given to applications arriving by April 1.

Please send cover letter (including available working dates), one-page resume, and contact information for two references electronically to:

Artur Stefanski stefa066@umn.edu  University of Minnesota 1530 Cleveland Ave N. St Paul, MN 55108 USA

4) Research Technician Position

We seek an energetic, motivated research technician to participate in experiments on the ecology, physiology, and genomics of switchgrass. This is an exciting opportunity to participate in integrative research studying the genetic basis of ecological processes in an important native grass species. The position will be administered through the University of Texas at Austin (www.utexas.edu) and stationed with Philip Fay’s group at the USDA Grassland, Soil, and Water Lab in Temple, TX (https://www.ars.usda.gov/plains-area/temple-tx/grassland-soil-and-water-research-laboratory/people/philip-fay/).

Please direct any questions about the position to Robert Heckman (robert.heckman@utexas.edu).

5) Two Research Assistant positions in entomology, Hong Kong

Two Research Assistant positions in entomology are available within the School of Biological Sciences and The Swire Institute of Marine Science at The University of Hong Kong (HKU). The position offers a two-year contract with competitive salary and benefits with an immediate starting date (or as soon as possible). The candidate must have a B.Sc. in entomology, ecology, biology, or related field. Any previous experience and/or specific interests for entomology will be highly valued for the position; in particular experience in sampling and/or specimen curation and identification for one or several of the following insect groups: Lepidoptera (moths), Lampyridae, and Hymenoptera (ants, bees and wasps). Good spoken and writing English skills are necessary.

Project description Mangroves represent one of the most threatened habitat globally with a poorly characterized biodiversity. The project will focus on an extensive biodiversity survey of mangroves in Hong Kong with a focus on both marine and terrestrial organisms. The two positions advertised here focusing on the entomofauna are part of interdisciplinary project surveying the fauna and flora of local mangroves led by Dr. Stefano Cannicci, Prof. Gray A. Williams and Dr. Benoit Guénard.

Successful applicants will be responsible for setting up sampling sites, using various collecting methods (Malaise traps, baiting, beating, artificial nest traps…), sorting and curating the specimens collected, performing identification and data entry within the project’s database. Candidates should thus posses excellent organization skills and be able to work for long hours in the hot and humid environments experienced in subtropical habitats; as well as showing diligence to complete intense entomological surveys (hundreds of thousands of specimens are expected); with a particular focus on three taxonomic groups: Lepidoptera (moths), Lampyridae, and Hymenoptera (ants, bees and non- parasitoid wasps). The entomological material collected will constitute the basis for the development of a reference collection and database in Hong Kong.

Interested candidates should initially email a letter of interest with a resume with relevant experience and contact information for two reference contacts to Dr. Benoit Guénard (bguenard@hku.hk). Application should be received before March 15th 2017.

Information about the research conducted in the Insect Biodiversity and Biogeography lab, Hard Rock Ecology Lab and Mangrove Ecology and Evolution lab are available at the following addresses: http://benoitguenard.wordpress.com/
https://www.biosch.hku.hk/research/ecology-biodiversity-2/ https://stefanocannicci.wordpress.com/

6) Summer Research Technician – Role of Birds in Lyme Disease, May 15 to August 29, 2017

Description: A paid opportunity is available to participate in research related to the role of birds and rodents in the ecology of Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases The intern will gain knowledge and field experience while working on a long-term project studying the dynamics of infection in birds and mice on Block Island, RI. Responsibilities and learning opportunities include: bird mist netting, conducting bird point count surveys, small mammal trapping, collecting ticks from animals and the environment.

Requirements: Ability to identify common northeastern birds by sight and sound and previous experience doing bird point count surveys are required. Candidates must have completed, or be in the process of completing, a Bachelor’s degree in a biological science; must possess a valid driver’s license; and be able to hike outdoors while carrying equipment.

Logistics: The position will be based on Block Island, RI. Housing and transportation will be provided. Project PI: Maria Diuk-Wasser. If interested please send a resume, cover letter, and the names and emails of two references to mad2256@columbia.edu

7) Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Position In Stream Ecology and Biogeochemistry

Carbon dynamics of overlapping consumer hotspots in stream ecosystems.  A research experience for undergraduates is available at the University of Oklahoma for the summer of 2017 with Drs. Caryn Vaughn and Thomas Parr to study stream consumer contributions to carbon biogeochemistry. This REU is part of our NSF funded project “Shifting hotspots – How do consumer aggregations interact to influence resource heterogeneity and fluxes in streams?”

The successful candidate will join a team of researchers looking at the effects of overlapping fish and mussel consumer aggregations on nutrient recycling rates, flux, and stoichiometry, and their implications for ecosystem functions like primary production. The student will work as part of this team in a greenhouse facility on the OU campus in Norman, OK and in the field in Southeastern Oklahoma. The student will also develop an independent project leveraging existing field sites and resources to complement this ongoing research.

The ideal candidate should be broadly interested in pursuing a career in Ecology or a related field, eager to learn new skills, hard-working, and detail oriented. The student will start on June 1st, 2017 at OU in Norman, OK (earlier start dates are negotiable). We will provide a stipend of $500/wk for 12 weeks ($6,000/summer) and funding to attend and present the work at one conference.

Eligibility: Students must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Students who have received their bachelor’s degree or who are not currently enrolled as students at an institution are not eligible.

Students interested in this position should apply by March 31st 2017, but we will accept applications until a suitable candidate is identified. To apply, please send the following: 1. Resume or CV 2. A 1-2 page statement describing your interest in the position, career goals, and previous research experience. 3. Contact information for 2-3 references. 4. Unofficial copy of transcripts (including courses in progress).

Please send applications to: Thomas Parr (thomas.parr@ou.edu) Contact: Dr. Thomas Parr or Dr. Caryn Vaughn (cvaughn@ou.edu) with any questions. http://carynvaughn.com/research/

8) Seasonal Field Technician Positions Studying Vegetation and Pollinator Networks in Longleaf Pine Savanna

We seek to fill multiple field technician positions for a large-scale experiment testing how the restoration of longleaf pine ecosystem in the Southeastern United States impacts pollinator networks and the vegetation community. Primary job duties will include field, laboratory, and office tasks required for vegetation and pollinator sampling. The research for this field season has 2 major goals: 1) conducting a survey of diverse ground cover plant species across many experimental plots in the field and 2) collecting, processing, and identifying insect pollinators from blooming plants in order to construct plant- pollinator networks.

The ideal start date for this position would be in early June 2017, and it will last for approximately 6 months. Pay rate will be $10-12 per hour, commensurate with experience.  The technician will work at the Savannah River Site, live in a town near the site (Aiken or New Ellenton, SC, or Augusta, GA), and will join a team of Lars Brudvig, Rufus Isaacs, Jason Gibbs, and the lead technician (Sabrie Breland) based at The Savanna River Site. Housing is not provided, but low-cost options are available. Successful candidates will have, or be working towards, a bachelor’s degree in ecology, biology, or a related discipline. Previous field research experience is required, previous entomological or botanical field experience is highly desired. The successful applicant must be able to endure hot, humid conditions and long hours in the field.

To apply, please email a resume and a letter including descriptions of past experience that highlight entomology/botany/ecology experience, why this position is interesting or important to you, dates of availability, and contact information with email addresses for three references to Sabrie Breland (sabriejrb@gmail.com) with subject line “Seasonal technician application”. Review of application materials will begin immediately; applications received after March 31 will not be considered.

9) Research Experience for Undergraduates in Stream Ecology – Michigan Tech, Summer 2017

The Marcarelli Aquatic Ecosystem Ecology Lab is searching for a motivated student in Ecology, Biology, or Environmental Science for a NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) position. The student will work closely with Dr. Marcarelli and her graduate students to study the balance between nitrogen fixation and denitrification in streams and rivers.  The REU student will design a research project, conduct field work, analyze samples and data, and synthesize findings related to the core questions of this project:

  1. How do nitrogen cycle processes co-exist in small streams, large rivers, and adjacent wetlands? 2. How does nutrient enrichment shift the balance among nitrogen cycle processes? 3. How does community composition of algae and microbes relate to rates of nitrogen cycle processes?

There will be opportunities to conduct field work in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, participate in undergraduate research workshops, and present research results to the Michigan Tech community and possibly at a national conference.

The candidate must be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States and enrolled as an undergraduate student in Fall 2017.  The REU is expected to last 10 weeks (start/end date negotiable but should occur between June 1 and August 31 2017) with a total stipend of $5,000 and an additional $1,000 to offset the cost of summer lodging, which is available on campus at Michigan Tech.

To apply, please submit a cover letter (include a statement of interest, future plans, confirmation of eligibility, and preferred start/end dates), an up-to-date CV or resume, a recent transcript (unofficial is fine), and names and contact information for two references to Dr. Amy Marcarelli (ammarcar@mtu.edu). Application review will begin immediately and continue until position is filled.

Visit our lab webpage for a more in-depth view of our research and to meet the members of our team. http://marcarelli-lab.bio.mtu.edu/home

10) Jobs: Summer Lab/Field Technician Positions (Ohio)

The Gardiner Lab in the Department of Entomology at The Ohio State University is looking to hire several lab/field technicians for the coming field season. We are a landscape ecology lab based in Wooster, OH but we primarily conduct our research in the urban ecosystem of Cleveland, OH. Our NSF-funded research focuses on designing sustainable urban green spaces that are both cost-effective and better for the environment.

As one of our undergraduate researchers, you will gain both field and lab experience.

In the field, you might help establish experimental plots, set up insect traps, collect plant or insect samples, or maintain plots. Back at the laboratory, you might prepare equipment for different field work experiments, sort through samples and look for spiders or beetles, pin insect specimens, or help rear native bee larvae. We work hard, rain or shine, to collect our samples and are looking for undergraduates who can work effectively in outdoor settings, maintain positive attitudes, and who are detail orientated. A valid driver’s license is required.

At the end of your summer at the Gardiner Lab you can expect to gain: -An increased knowledge of Ohio’s diverse insect and plant communities -Skills in collecting unique arthropods including spiders, long legged flies, and bees -A resume-building research experience and potential letters of recommendation for future jobs

Pay: $9.50/Hour (up to 38 hours/week) Location: Wooster, OH @ OARDC Timing: mid-May to mid-August, 2017 Email Chris Riley at riley.595@osu.edu for more information or to submit your completed application! Applications Due March 20th! For best consideration please submit prior to this deadline but we will be reviewing applications on a rolling basis after the due date.

11) Seasonal Technicians- Wetlands, Riparian Systems, Mapping, and Botany (3 – 4 positions), Utah

Title: Seasonal Technicians- Wetlands, Riparian Systems, Mapping, and Botany (3 – 4 positions) Work Location: Utah Geological Survey, Salt Lake City, UT Pay Rate: $12 – $14/hr; one technician with strong botany skills may be paid a higher rate Closing Date: March 12, 2017 Employment Period: End of May through end of September, with one or more technicians continuing past end date

Position Description:  The Utah Geological Survey is hiring seasonal technicians for a variety of aquatic projects, including: 1.     Conducting wetland field assessments to evaluate wetland health and refine an assessment protocol. Major tasks include taking water quality samples with a hand-held meter, describing soil profiles, and evaluating qualitative measures to describe wetland condition. An incumbent with suitable skills may also assist with collecting plant community data. Work will be with a two-person crew. 2.  Collecting basic data on springs and stream segments. Major tasks include using aerial imagery to identify target survey locations, navigating to both backcountry and front country locations, and collecting basic information on aquatic condition at springs and streams. Work will typically be carried out solo, but the incumbent will have access to an emergency beacon. 3.               Collecting stream geomorphology data. Major tasks include assessing cross-sections of a stream to identify bank stability, channel features, and riparian buffer. Work will be with a two-person crew. 4. Assisting with wetland mapping. Major tasks include conducting field reconnaissance to evaluate wetland boundaries and then mapping wetlands using field notes and aerial imagery in ArcGIS. 5.      Assisting with other duties as needed, such as data entry/data checking, map making using ArcMap, and drafting figures for scientific publication.

Likely all technicians will have the opportunity to participate in all of the above tasks, though technicians will be assigned a primary task based on their qualifications. Most of the field work will take place as day trips from our office in Salt Lake City, but some overnight travel may be necessary for some projects. Work days will typically consist of four 10+ hour days per week, but other schedules may sometimes be required. This position is a great opportunity to visit seldom-seen parts of Utah and to develop expertise in a variety of wetlands and aquatic systems across the state.

Required Qualifications: 1.           Completion of at least three years of education towards a bachelor’s degree in geology, ecology, biology, wetland science, botany, wildlife biology, or other related field. 2.     Ability to work independently with guidance and ability to collect data accurately and with attention to detail. 3.             Willingness and ability to work long hours and unusual schedules (including overnights), travel extensively, drive a State of Utah vehicle, hike moderate distances through occasionally rough terrain, and tolerate exposure to extreme heat, rain, biting insects, and other field nuisances.

Preference will be given to individuals with coursework or professional experience in at least one of the following areas (please mention in cover letter): 1.      ArcGIS (especially map making and digitizing from aerial imagery). 2.      National Wetland Inventory data and the Cowardin classification system. 4. Stream geomorphology concepts. 5.        Plant identification, especially wetland plants. 6.            Background in wetlands, streams, riparian areas, and/or aquatic systems. 7.         At least one season of field experience or demonstrated ability to conduct work outdoors. 8.            Collection practices for water quality data. 9.      Describing soil profiles and identifying hydric soil indicators. 10.               Photoshop/Illustrator      To apply, submit resume, cover letter, three references (with phone numbers), and available start date to Ryhan Sempler at the Utah Geological Survey, rsempler@utah.gov. Applications will be accepted through March 12.

12) Job: Field technician surveying Eastern Massasaugas in Ohio

A full-time seasonal position is available to assist with surveys and habitat assessments for the Eastern Massasauga (Sistrurus catenatus) as part of an Ohio Division of Wildlife sponsored conservation program with The Ohio State University. Work will entail establishing artificial cover transects; searching for and capturing snakes; collecting demographic and morphometric data; collecting scale and blood samples; inserting passive integrated transponders (PIT); and recording locations using a GPS unit. Habitat assessments will include recording data on vegetation composition/structure and refugia. Work will take place mainly in Northeast Ohio and shared housing will be provided in rural Ashtabula County.

Duration: May 8 – August 11, 2017 Pay: $10.12-$11.50/hr

Attributes of a successful applicant include:

Willing and able to work long hours in inclement weather (heat, rain, etc.) with exposure to mosquitoes, biting flies, ticks, and noxious plants. Committed to maintaining a safe work environment. Dedication to accurate and thorough data collection. Ability to lift 50 lbs. and navigate rough terrain. Possess a valid driver’s license, insurance, and their own reliable transportation.

To apply, go to the OSU job board at: https://www.jobsatosu.com/postings/76597 (Job ID 425750) Please submit the following: Cover letter indicating you meet the job requirements and your available start and end dates, if different than those posted. Resume that includes details of any previous experiences (paid or unpaid) relevant to the current position; Names, phone numbers, and email addresses of two references.

13) Field technician positions in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Department of Forestry and Natural Resources at Purdue University is hiring two technicians to assist with vegetation plot sampling in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Supervisor: Mike Jenkins Approximate hours a week:  40 Duration of Position: Mid-May to August 2017 Compensation: $10.35/hour

Job Description: Field technicians will assist with vegetation data collection on vegetation monitoring plots in Great Smoky Mountains National Park for a graduate student whose research examines forest community response to the hemlock woolly adelgid. This job will require spending the summer in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Fieldwork will include woody vegetation identification and sampling in plots throughout the park, as well as collecting environmental data. The position will require hiking through rough terrain and frequent backcountry camping. Housing will be provided.

Qualifications: Woody plant identification skills required Experience with backcountry navigation using GPS, topographic maps and compass desired Previous field work experience preferred Backpacking experience desired Must possess a valid driver’s license Must be able to work outdoors in remote conditions, in rough terrain and under inclement weather conditions Must be in good physical fitness

Deadline to Apply: 3/15/2017 or until positions are filled

To apply: Send cover letter, résumé (including contact information for two references), unofficial transcript, and dates of availability to Meghan Mulroy (mmulroy@purdue.edu) or Mike Jenkins (jenkinma@purdue.edu)

14) REU in plant invasions

The Wright lab at Duke University will be hiring an REU student to work on our project investigating the effects of the invasive grass, Microstegium vimineum, on native ecosystems.  The student will develop an independent project that is nested within a larger collaborative project between Duke, Indiana and the University of Florida.  Possible topics include investigating the effects of the invasive species on native plant biodiversity or arthropod communities across a range of invasion intensity.

The program will start on May 22nd and last 10 weeks and we will provide a stipend. If you are interested, please send your CV, a letter describing your interest in the project, and the names and contact information of 2 references to Justin Wright (jw67@duke.edu).

15) Native Bee Ecology Lab Hiring Seasonal Field Technician for Spring/Summer 2017

Position: Seasonal Field Technician in Ecology Project: Effects of floral resource dynamics on bumblebee colonies and populations Location: University of California Davis Employer: University of California Davis Dates: Mar 27 to Aug 4 Pay: $15.46 per hour (Lab Assistant 1)

Application Deadline: March 10th, 2017 (we encourage early submissions)

We are seeking: a highly motivated, detail-oriented individual to work as a full- time field technician from Mar 27 to August 4 at the University of California at Davis on an NSF-funded project exploring the effects of resource dynamics on bumble bee colony and population dynamics. This project is collaboratively run by Neal Williams (UC Davis) and Elizabeth Crone (Tufts University). The technician will be based in the Williams lab at UC Davis and will work closely with 3 other team members, including two postdoctoral researchers.

Project Background: In the past decade, there has been a groundswell of interest in the effects of landscape change on pollinator populations and communities, especially those of bees. This interest is fueled by concerns over pollinator declines and implications for plant pollination globally. Bumblebees are a particularly important group of social insect pollinators that are also of conservation concern. We are exploring how resource dynamics affect colony- level demography and foraging dynamics of Bombus vosnesenskii. To do this, we are carrying out a field experiment in which colonies are exposed to different resource conditions – some will be given supplemental food resources, while others will have access only to ambient resources in the local environment. We are tracking the weights of all experimental colonies across the season, and will also be collecting pollen samples from individual bees as they return to the nest. Up to 48 colonies will be placed across 12 field sites that are located up to 1.5 driving hours from the UC Davis campus. Most sites require no more than an hour of driving to access. A University vehicle will be available for the technician to use for fieldwork.

Qualifications: The field technician will participate in all aspects of data collection for this field experiment. Employee must be willing to drive multiple hours in a day to access field sites and to move between field sites. Responsibilities will include weighing live colonies and handling live bees. Previous experience conducting field research (through employment and/or education) is required. Individual must be capable of working outdoors in the summer heat and comfortable working with live bee colonies. Applicants must be willing to work independently and as a part of a team. Excellent organizational skills are a must. Candidate must possess a valid driver’s license and a good driving record. See official job posting for further details.

TO APPLY: Your official application, to include a cover letter and 1-2 page resume, should be submitted through UC Davis (Requisition # 03018517). Cover letter should convey specific relevant research experience and describe interest in the current project.  If you have questions about the position, please contact Rosemary Malfi (postdoc) by email: rlmalfi@ucdavis.edu.

Undergrad Research Opportunities 1/30/17

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1) REU opportunity at Miami University: Accepting applications!

Ecology REU at Miami University for the summer of 2017 Undergraduate students accepted into the program will:

  • Conduct an independent research project with a faculty mentor at Miami University. Research opportunities are available in the lab or field in aquatic or terrestrial environments.
  • Discuss current literature related to their projects with faculty mentors and student peers in clusters related to their project.
  • Attend team-building field trips around the regional Midwest.
  • Take short courses on ethics and professions in ecology and environmental science, and interact with seminars by guest speakers.
  • Participate in field trips illustrating the natural history of Southwestern Ohio.

For more information about our program please visit our website at:

https://sites.google.com/a/miamioh.edu/ecoreu/home. Click on the Application tab at the top of the page and follow the instructions to apply. Please contact Patrick Garrett at ecoreu@miamioh.edu with any problems, questions, or concerns you may have about our program or the application process.

2) Amphibian Research Internship at Memphis Zoo

Organization: Memphis Zoo
Location: Memphis, TN, United States
Job or Internship: Research Internship
Dates: March 15 – June 15, 2017.
Start date flexible between early-late March.
Application Deadline: January 31, 2017
Website: http://www.memphiszoo.org/researchprograms

The Memphis Zoo Department of Research and Conservation is offering a research assistant position in behavioral ecology and reproductive physiology.

This program offers a unique research experience in conservation, with a chance to work with amphibians both in the lab and in the field (roughly 80% lab work and 20% field work). Interns will gain experience in a variety of field and laboratory techniques, such as visual encounter surveys, hormone induced spermiaiton, sperm assessment, captive breeding, in vitro fertilization, behavioral observations, and morphological characterization. Additionally, interns will learn strategies for communicating their science to broad audiences and will have the opportunity of presenting their research findings in a professional scientific setting.

Amidst the sixth mass extinction, amphibians are one of the most threatened groups of animals, with more than 30% of amphibians (i.e. over 2000 species) at risk of extinction. One of the ways to safeguard species from extinction risks is to keep them in captive colonies. The ultimate goal of captive colonies, however, is to enhance in situ conservation of the species by releasing captive individuals and increasing or reestablishing natural populations. A critical factor that ultimately determines the success of captive release programs is whether released individuals have the ability to adapt to natural environments. With this in mind, we will be working on research projects that investigate the behavior and morphology of tadpoles in an array of different treatments.

Applicants must have a B.S. or at least three years of college level course work in biology or a related field. Preference will be given to individuals with a particular interest in behavioral ecology, leadership ability, strong communication skills, and a demonstrated commitment to wildlife conservation. Experience with field studies, laboratory techniques, data analysis, and amphibian biology is preferred, but not required. Interns must be well organized and able to work well with a team and independently

3) Advanced Computing for Earth Sciences (ACES) summer school/paid internships

Advanced Computing for Earth Sciences (ACES), sponsored by the University of Virginia Advanced Research Computing Services (ARCS) group, NASA, and U.Va.’s Department of Environmental Sciences, is an exciting opportunity for students interested in computational modeling for atmospheric, ocean, climate, geophysical, and other Earth sciences. Students enrolled in the ACES program acquire hands-on application computing experience as well as training in the essentials of software engineering and high-performance computing.

A total of 20 students will be selected to attend the summer school on grounds at the University of Virginia. They will then be placed in 8-week paid internship programs at various NASA research centers across the country. Some previous programming experience is helpful but is not required. Students with advanced computer science skills who are interested in applications for Earth sciences are also encouraged to apply. Those admitted to the summer school will be provided housing, two meals per day during the work week, and a generous stipend for all other meals. Travel expenses are covered for up to a maximum of $750 per student. Only U.S. citizens are eligible to apply. We accept graduate students and undergraduates who will be completing their third or fourth years of study.

Important Dates for ACES 2017:

Application Deadline: March 1

Summer School: May31-June16

Internships: June 19-August 11

Website: arcs.virginia.edu/aces

4) Research Experience for Undergraduates at University of Georgia

Applications are now being accepted for the summer of 2017 Research Experience for Undergraduates in Population Ecology of Infectious Diseases, hosted by the University of Georgia. We are excited about the program, which strives to integrate experimental biological science with computational methods and techniques to investigate a variety of areas in infectious disease research. Our goal is to recruit both students with a background in biology, with the intent of introducing them to computational techniques, and also students with a background in mathematics and/or computer science, in order to give them experience in data collection in a laboratory setting.

Location: University of Georgia, Athens, GA

Dates: May 22-July 21, 2017 (9 weeks)

Stipend: $4725 stipend for the summer, free housing at the University of Georgia, and travel assistance to Athens, GA.

Application deadline: February 20, 2017. Accepted students will be notified in early March.

5) Summer REU program at the Oregon Institute of Marine Biology

The Oregon Institute of Marine Biology’s REU program: “Exploration of Marine Biology on the Oregon Coast” (EMBOC) will be accepting 10 students, five from 2-year colleges and five from 4-year colleges, to conduct research this summer (June 19 – August 18, 2017) at the University of Oregon’s marine lab. REU students will develop individual marine research projects in one of our eight faculties’ labs and participate in weekly seminars, professional development workshops, and social activities from exploring local marine habitats like rocky shores and sand dunes to touring other institutions that specialize in marine science. More info can be found at http://oimb.uoregon.edu/oimb-reu.

6) Research Opportunities for Undergraduates at the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory

Each year the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory (RMBL) matches approximately 40 students with mentors from around the world.  Students have opportunities to work on a wide array of ecological and evolutionary field projects.  Additionally, students have the opportunity to supplement their research project with additional training in field ecology or wildlife biology. RMBL provides REU funding for approximately 10 students.  RMBL also makes available additional scholarships.  Consequently financial need should not preclude students from applying.

This is a wonderful opportunity for students thinking about a career in the sciences.  RMBL is located in Gothic, Colorado, a stunningly beautiful location in the Rockies.  Because we host approximately 100 graduate students and senior scientists, undergraduates have an opportunity to learn about graduate programs from around the world.  Many undergraduates end up as co-authors on scientific papers and start building professional networks that foster their career across a lifetime.  We have had many undergraduates turn their summer research into a senior thesis project, even though they have not necessarily had someone from their school present at RMBL during the summer.

Our program does fill.  We encourage strongly motivated applicants, including applicants who need financial support, to submit their online application by Feb. 15 for REU applicants and by March 1 for RMBL Scholarships.  Students can apply for both sources of funds with one application: rmbl.org

7) LAKES REU Announcement

The LAKES (Linking Applied Knowledge in Environmental Sustainability) REU focuses on water quality and phosphorus mitigation in an interdisciplinary manner over an 8 week program (June 11-August 5), with projects this year in geography, economics, biology, anthropology, and sociology.  Students will be provided with room and board and a generous stipend during their participation in the LAKES program.  This program prioritizes students under-represented in the scientific community, pairing them with mentors in individual projects. These collectively will contribute to a more complete understanding of the dynamic interactions of our land and water, our political economy, our social networks, our culture, and our sense of place.

We will start reviewing applications for the 2017 summer program on March 1st. Complete program information can be found here: http://www.uwstout.edu/lakes/.

8) Bee and Crop Pollination Research: Multiple Field Technicians Needed

The Isaacs Lab at Michigan State University (www.isaacslab.ent.msu.edu) is seeking to fill multiple positions for pollinator research projects for the 2017 season.

We seek field and laboratory assistants for multiple research projects investigating the factors affecting the abundance and diversity of bees in Michigan fruit crops and mature wildflower restorations, as well as techniques to improve pollinator habitat in agricultural landscapes. Work with honey bees and alternative managed bees such as bumble bees or Osmia bees is also possible. Depending on the specific project, this will require extended stays at MSU field research stations for a 3 week period in May during fruit crop bloom as well as possible overnight stays during sampling rounds (accommodations at the field station are covered). The majority of the work will be fieldwork, but these positions will also include laboratory work for sample processing, data entry, etc. Daily tasks may include: travel to field sites in university vehicle (travel time is paid), visual pollinator observations, wildflower plant surveys, pollination experiments, netting bees and other insects, weed management, data entry, measuring fruit yields, and labeling and curating bee specimens.

Employment period: May 1 – August 30, 2017, with potential for earlier start

and later end dates, depending on project needs

Full time: 40 hours/week

Starting salary: $11.00/hour

9) 2017 Mountain Lake Biological Station Summer Programs

Field-based courses are UVA Summer Session classes offered by nationally recruited faculty, and offered at the undergraduate and graduate level. Become a National Science Foundation REU. Join undergraduates from around the country for a unique 10-week learning and living research experience in the southern Appalachians. Students conduct independent research in field ecology, evolution, behavior, and physiology under the supervision of resident scientists. REUs are internships that include all station costs, travel, and a $5,250 stipend.

Program dates:  May 22 – July 28

Application deadline:  February 20

Website: mlbs.org

10) REU Opportunities at LTER Sites

Several Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) sites have opportunities for undergraduates to participate in research experiences. With a large concentration of research scientists and graduate students, LTER sites are exceptional places to learn the craft of scientific research, build an extraordinary professional network, learn about many different approaches to research, and– oh yeah–get dirty, inspired, and make great friends.

LTER Opportunities here: https://lternet.edu/2017-reu-opportunities

SEEDS Opportunities here: http://esa.org/seeds/fellowship/

NSF-wide listing of opportunities here:

https://www.nsf.gov/crssprgm/reu/reu_search.jsp

11) Summer field assistant position: Invasion ecology and plant-insect interactions in Vancouver Island, BC

The Prior Lab at Binghamton University SUNY (priorecologylab.com) is seeking to hire a summer field assistant for the spring and summer of 2017. The assistant will work collaboratively as a part of a team on a project examining how host plants and parasitoids influence the invasion of a phytophagous insect (a gall-forming wasp). The work will be located at multiple field sites in southern Vancouver Island, British Columbia and in Washington State (around Olympia). The assistant will live with the field team in provided housing on Vancouver Island, BC and will camp for several days at a time while working in Washington State.

Duties will involve daily travel to and from field sites, establishing and maintaining field experiments, collecting, sorting and rearing insects, conducting surveys of trees and insects, and data entry and processing. Given the nature of conducting time-sensitive observations and experiments in the field, the work schedule will be flexible, and work hours will depend on when tasks need to be completed and on weather conditions. The candidate should like to spend time outdoors, be able to hike for long distances in hilly terrain, be able to spend long hours in the field and be willing to camp for several nights at a time.

Qualifications:

  • A Bachelors degree (or working towards) in biology, ecology & evolution, entomology, or a related field.
  • Previous field research experience (experience working remotely at a field site or station is a plus, but not a requirement).
  • Have an interest in ecology & evolution or entomology.
  • Be highly responsible, flexible, dedicated, and motivated.
  • Be able to work well as a part of a team and to live and work well with others.
  • Be willing and able to work long irregular hours outside in remote conditions.
  • Be able to hike long distances and in hilly terrain.
  • Must have a driver’s license and a passport.

Accommodations will be provided in a shared residence on southern Vancouver Island. A field vehicle will also be provided. Ideal work dates from May 1st – July 31st. A monthly stipend (amount depending on experience) will be provided.

To apply send a cover letter explaining why you are interested in the position and listing your relevant qualifications, a CV or resume, and the names and contact information (email and phone number) for three references. Review of the position will begin immediately, and please apply before March 1st for full consideration. Please email application to Kirsten Prior (kprior@binghamton.edu) with “Application for field assistant position” in the subject line.

Undergrad Research Opportunities 1/17/17

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1) REU Program, University of Kansas

Applications are now open for our NSF funded Research Experience for Undergraduate (REU) program, Models in Evolution, Ecology and Systematics.

The program will take place May 22-July 28 2017 in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Kansas. In this ten-week program, students will participate in mentored, independent research and receive training in research support skills.  “Models” is broadly interpreted to include not only building of theoretical models, but also testing of models (empirical work). More information on projects is available athttp://eebreu.ku.edu.

Students will be provided with a generous stipend, housing and meals, and travel to the program. Review of applications begins February 15, 2017 and will continue until all positions are filled. Students must have completed one semester of college level work (including community college), must plan to be enrolled in an undergraduate program during the fall of 2017, and be US citizens or permanent residents. Biology, math and computer science majors are encouraged to apply.

Former students have been highly successful at continuing on to graduate school and obtaining the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship.  Review of applications begins February 15 and will continue until all positions are filled.  Questions may be addressed to eebreu@ku.edu.

 

2) Seasonal Vegetation Monitoring Technicians, Ely, NV

The Eastern Nevada Landscape Coalition (ENLC) is currently seeking vegetation monitoring technicians for our upcoming 2017 field season.

Located in Ely, Nevada, the ENLC is a non-profit conservation organization comprised of public, private, and non-profit partners dedicated to the restoration of Western ecosystems through collaborative teamwork. The ENLC conducts a variety of vegetation/wildlife monitoring projects throughout Nevada and surrounding states. We are requesting applications for a minimum of four to six

(4-6) vegetation monitoring technicians to work out of our main office in Ely, NV.

Field technicians’ primary responsibility will be to collect post-fire vegetation response data in burned areas on public lands managed by the BLM as part of the Emergency Stabilization and Rehabilitation (ES&R) program. Data collected will be used to evaluate the effectiveness of post wildfire rehabilitation treatments.

Technicians will be responsible for driving (in company vehicles) and hiking to sampling locations, following rigorous sampling protocols for data collection, data quality control and data entry.

Field work will involve driving on and navigating backcountry dirt roads, hiking and navigating potentially long distances off trail, establishing and monitoring plots using the BLM’s Assessment, Inventory, and Monitoring (AIM) strategy, all while camping in the backcountry for 4-8 days at a time, sometimes in adverse weather conditions.

Other duties include data entry using the Database for Inventory, Monitoring, and Assessment (DIMA), collecting herbarium quality plant specimens, identifying plants to species in both a field and office setting, operating 4WD vehicles, communicating effectively in a small crew setting, and operating safely in sometimes harsh and stressful field conditions.

Applicants should have graduated from a program in biological sciences, ecology, natural resources or a related field. The ideal applicant will have experience in plant identification and a general knowledge of plant taxonomy.

Applicants should email a cover letter, resume, and the contact information for at least three references to Patrick Hellmann at phellmann@envlc.org. All materials should be emailed by February 24th, 2017.  For more information, please visit our website (http://www.envlc.org).

 

3) 2017 Summer Field Forestry/Biology/Ecology Internships

6 Technicians are needed for Monday, May 15th – Friday, August 11th for positions in State College, PA and Coudersport, PA

Pay: Full time, 40hr/week appointment. $11.50/hr. Housing is provided, along with access to a field vehicle.

Duties: Must be able to find, monument, and inventory permanent forest vegetation plots using GPS and other tools in central or northern Pennsylvania. Daily duties include navigation to remote parts of Pennsylvania state forest lands, hiking up to 2 miles with equipment, and collection of quality vegetation monitoring data—the identification, size class, and abundance of more than 100 species of overstory and understory plants— with a field PC.

Key qualifications: At least two years toward a natural resources baccalaureate degree; demonstrated plant identification skills (as evidenced by a course in plant ID, such as dendrology, and/or field experience collecting vegetation data); ability to work independently and reliably without direct supervision in challenging field conditions; and possession of a valid driver’s license.

To apply: Send a letter, résumé, transcripts, and contact information for three references (via email preferred) to Bobbi Joy Scovern. At least one reference should be able to comment on your plant identification skills. In your letter, please indicate if you would like to be considered for a crew leader position.

Email applications to:

Bobbi Joy Scovern, Administrative Support Assistant Pennsylvania Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit

419 Forest Resources Building

University Park, PA 16802

Email: bys5@psu.edu

Phone: 814-865-4511

 

4) Environmental Science and Policy in the Nation’s Capital – An NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Program at Georgetown University for Summer 2017

Georgetown University’s REU Site program in Environmental Science and Policy in the Nation’s Capital is seeking talented and engaged undergraduate students.  This ten-week program will bring a cohort of ten students to Washington, D.C. to conduct hands-on research in environmental science at Georgetown University and to take part in a mini-curriculum that builds research skills and also explores the intersections of science and public policy.

Participating research mentors have expertise in fields including ecology, conservation biology, evolutionary genetics, mathematical modeling, hydrology, statistics for environmental studies, and earth science.  See mentor research descriptions on the program web site.  Interested students are encouraged to contact potential mentors directly.

The 2017 program will run from May 31 – August 5.  Students will be housed on the Georgetown campus and will receive a $5250 stipend plus an allowance for food.  To be eligible, applicants must be U. S. citizens or permanent residents, full-time students as of August, 2017, and available to participate full-time during the program.  We are striving for a diverse group, so students from groups typically underrepresented in STEM fields are strongly encouraged to apply.

Review of applications will begin on February 17, 2017 and will be accepted on a continuing until all positions are filled. For more information on the program and to apply, visit: http://reuenvscigeorgetown.weebly.com/

 

5) Research Assistant: Buck Island Sea Turtle Research Program 2017

Buck Island Reef National Monument (BIRNM), located on the island of St. Croix, US Virgin Islands, is seeking applicants for the position of Sea Turtle Research Assistant (intern) to conduct sea turtle research and monitoring. This will be the 30th year of the Buck Island Sea Turtle Research Program (BISTRP), a long-term monitoring, research, and conservation project supported by the National Park Service (NPS), Buck Island Reef National Monument.

BIRNM is a nesting beach for hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata), green (Chelonia mydas), leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea), and loggerhead (Caretta caretta) sea turtles.

This project will be up to 12 weeks in duration beginning in mid-July 2017 (applicants must state availability in their cover letter) and are expected to stay the length of the project upon selection. This is a highly competitive project that is physically and mentally intense, aimed at individuals who want to make ecology/resource management their career. Access to the island is by boat only, where there are minimal facilities. Ability to navigate rugged terrain, work in adverse weather conditions, and amongst biting insects and poisonous and spiny plants is essential. Shifts last up to 12 hours and require interns to work effectively on a nocturnal schedule. Interns must work equally effectively as a team and individually.

Interns will provide assistance to the NPS staff in the collection and processing of field data. A mixture of methods will be used: night duty and day patrols.

Night duty focuses on working with animals during the laying process. During this time, all nesting turtles will be encountered; biometric data will be collected on turtles, physical data will be collected on nest locations, and animals will be tagged (inconel and PIT). Imperiled nests will be relocated to mitigate risk and increase hatch success. Nests will be excavated to determine hatch success.

Night work will last in shifts up to 12 hours and will be labor intensive. Day patrols will require accurate assessment of the previous night’s nesting activities from tracks left in the sand alone. Nests that hatch will be excavated to estimate hatching success and beach productivity. Throughout the project interns will be required to perform data entry and equipment maintenance.

Interns are also responsible for weekly daytime monitoring of beaches at The Buccaneer Hotel, their residence, recording activities using GPS. Interns will also conduct outreach to hotel guests and will write a report at season’s end summarizing turtle nesting activities at The Buccaneer Hotel. In addition to BISTRP objectives, interns will provide assistance to NPS staff and collaborators with a hawksbill hatchling genetics project and aid in hatchling sampling and data collection. Interns may also participate in the deployment of acoustic and satellite tags as part of directed research to assess sea turtle movement. In addition, interns may have the opportunity to conduct snorkel surveys for foraging sea turtles and/or assist in sea turtle stranding response incidents.

Interns will receive two meals/day and lodging from The Buccaneer Hotel at no cost to the interns. A small weekly stipend will be allotted to each intern ($100), and travel costs will be covered by the NPS. Interns need to seriously consider their finances before applying to these openings; it will not be possible to work locally while conducting intern duties.

To apply, send a cover letter stating your interest in and qualifications for the project, a resume or CV summarizing your experience, and contact information for three references to the email address below. The document(s) you submit should include your last name and document type in the file name. Email is preferred, but postal mail is accepted.* Deadline for application: 30 Jan 2017, no applicants will be considered after this date.*  If selected for interview you will be contacted by Feb 5th, *please do not make follow up inquiries.*

 

6) Internship posting at The Smithsonian Environmental Research Center

The Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC) in Edgewater, Maryland offers undergraduate and beginning graduate students a unique opportunity to gain hand-on experience in the fields of environmental research and education.

The program enables students to work on specific projects while getting experience in valuable lab techniques all under the direction of the Center’s professional staff. The program is tailored to provide the maximum educational benefit to each participant.

SERC is focused on understanding the causes and consequences of environmental change for marine, freshwater, and terrestrial ecosystems.

Interns at SERC conduct independent projects over 12-16 weeks utilizing our 2,650 acre research site on the shores of Chesapeake Bay to provide novel insights into some of the most profound  issues challenging our world today, including habitat loss, climate change, and invasive species. The Smithsonian Environmental Research Center has maintained an REU site since 2001 and those students sponsored have used our professional-training programs as a stepping stone to pursue advanced careers in the environmental sciences.

Application to the SERC Internship Program consists of on-line registration, Student copy of transcripts, personal essay, CV or resume, and two letters of recommendation using the Smithsonian On-line Academic Appointment (SOLAA) https://solaa.si.edu/solaa/#/public

Application deadline listed below:

Summer (May-August): Deadline is February 1st

 

7) Cary Institute REU Program in Translational Ecology currently accepting applications!

The Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies is currently accepting applications for its Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program during summer 2017. The theme of the program is Translational Ecology:  Independent Research in Ecology for Undergraduates, Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies, Millbrook, New York

Ten undergraduate students will join the Cary Institute research community in 2017 to:

  • Be a part of an exciting research community, working closely with leading ecologists
  • Design and complete a research project using state-of-the-art facilities
  • Exchange ideas with a diverse group of students and scientists
  • Learn how to translate ecology for policy, management and the public
  • Publish results in our online Cary Institute Undergraduate Research Report
  • Explore how ecological research impacts society

The program emphasizes the community nature of the scientific enterprise, fosters reflection and builds self-confidence and skills. To complement their mentored research, students have many chances to interact, give and receive feedback and support, and participate in a rich assortment of enrichment activities, workshops and field trips around the theme of translational ecology.

Dates: May 22 to August 11, 2017 (12 weeks)

Eligibility: Undergraduate freshmen, sophomores, juniors or first semester seniors. Must be citizens or permanent residents of the U.S. or its possessions.

Stipend: $6,300 stipend, plus a $900 food allowance and free housing in Bacon Flats Lodge.

Other support:  Assistance is available for travel to and from the program as well.

 

8) UWIN Undergraduate Research Program now accepting applications!

The Urban Water Innovation Network (UWIN) is currently accepting applications for its Undergraduate Research Program (URP) in the summer of 2017!

Students will be given the opportunity to perform cutting edge, transdisciplinary research of immediate relevance to people in urban areas. Students with different research interests in urban water sustainability – natural sciences, social sciences, engineering – will be placed with a team of mentors at institutions in urban areas across the nation. See:

https://erams.com/UWIN/urp/

Sustainable Urban Water Transdisciplinary Research Program for Undergraduates, Engaging Undergraduates in Transitioning Toward Sustainable Urban Water Systems

Students will join the Urban Water Innovation Network community for 9 weeks in summer 2017 to:

  • Complete an independent, guided research project, working closely with mentor scientists, other students and the broader UWIN team
  • Attend a 3 day kick-off and a 3 day wrap-up meetings at Colorado State University
  • Participate in skill building workshops and seminars
  • Attend a Virtual Forum on Opportunities in Urban Water Research and Management
  • Give a poster presentation in a final Urban Water Sustainability Research Symposium

The program fosters reflection and builds self-confidence and skills. To complement their mentored research, students interact in person and/or virtually, give and receive feedback and support, and participate in a rich assortment of enrichment activities, workshops and seminars in research and urban water sustainability.

Dates: May 31 to August 2, 2017 (9 weeks)

Eligibility:  Undergraduate freshmen, sophomores, juniors or first semester seniors. Must be citizens or permanent residents of the U.S. or its possessions.

Support: $4,500 stipend, room and board on-campus or in nearby housing, travel allowance up to $900.

The program starts and ends at Colorado State University in Fort Collins CO.

To apply: See our website at: https://erams.com/UWIN/urp/ Online application only.

Applications must be submitted by February 10, 2017.

 

9) Summer 2017 Internships at the Holden Arboretum

This 12-week summer internship will provide you with an opportunity to work with scientists from The Holden Arboretum studying the effects of environmental change on plants and forests of Northeast Ohio. Internships typically run from late May thru early August but timing is flexible. Duties may include: assisting in soil and plant sampling, plant data collection, as well as extracting, amplifying, and analyzing DNA from soils and roots. Interns will be compensated with a stipend of $440/week and on-site housing is available if needed for a nominal fee ($30 per week). Due to our rural location, interns are responsible for their own transportation. Persons with knowledge of or interest in ecology, microbiology, or plant biology are encouraged to apply.

Applicants should send a letter of interest, a resume that discusses your prior experience, and two references. Applicants should also indicate their primary research interest. Holden research staff and a description of their respective programs can be found at:

To apply: Review of applications begins immediately and continues until the positions are filled.  Qualified applicants should submit a letter of interest and resume online at: https://home.eease.adp.com/recruit2/?id=15518401&t=1.

Undergrad Research Opportunities 1/5/17

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1) Volunteer Field assistant for research on small mammals and plague

Agency: Idaho Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, University of Idaho
Location:Adams County, Idaho
Job Category:Temporary/Seasonal Positions
Salary:$45/day per diem plus free housing Start Date:04/05/2017
Last Date to Apply: 1/16/2017 website: https://amandargoldbergblog.wordpress.com/

Description The northern Idaho ground squirrel (Urocitellus brunneus) is federally threatened under ESA. We are using field experiments to assess the presence and effects that plague may have on northern Idaho ground squirrel populations and other small mammals associated with them.

We capture and mark ground squirrels using PIT tags and ear tags from April through August.  We compare demographic parameters among treatments, including capture-recapture analyses to assess population attributes (e.g., survival rates).  We anesthetize small mammals (Columbian ground squirrels, northern Idaho ground squirrels, chipmunks, and mice) to collect fleas (a plague vector).

Housing will be provided for the applicant during the field season. Field housing may be rustic.  Housing may be a camp trailer, a cabin, or a wall tent.  Applicants must be willing to live for 5 months without daily phone and email access.  Field work will include various types of weather conditions (rain, snow, and heat), long hours, odd schedules, and physical work.  We will provide a vehicle for work to transport technicians between housing and the field sites.

Skills you will acquire: • Trapping, handling, and processing small mammals (northern Idaho ground squirrels, Columbian ground squirrels, chipmunks, and mice) • Use of anesthesia in the field • Experience working with a listed species

Qualifications • Demonstrated oral and written communication skills • Demonstrated ability to work both independently and within a group setting • Previous experience hiking/camping • Excellent skills in time and data organization/management • Must be in good physical condition and have the ability to walk on uneven terrain throughout the day and carry heavy traps for short distances (less than 1 mile) • Must have a valid US driving license • Must be a US citizen or possess a valid US green card • Must be available for employment by 5 April 2017 through 15 August 2017

Apply by sending a cover letter, CV, copy of college transcripts (unofficial are ok), and the email and phone numbers for at least three references in one document (PDF or Word) to Amanda Goldberg (agoldberg@uidaho.edu) . Please write “plague volunteer” in the subject line.

2) Ecology REU opportunity at Miami University

Miami University (in Oxford, OH) is excited to announce that we are still accepting applications to our Research Experience for Undergraduates Program. The program is focused on The Ecology of Human Dominated Landscapes. We would appreciate it if you could distribute this e-mail to anyone that might be interested and encourage your students to visit our website and apply. Below there is a short synopsis of the program activities and contact information for students that may be interested in the program.

Undergraduate students accepted into the program will: • Conduct an independent research project with a faculty mentor at Miami University. Research opportunities are available in the lab or field in aquatic or terrestrial environments, • Discuss current literature related to their projects with faculty mentors and student peers in clusters related to their project. • Attend team-building field trips around the regional Midwest. • Take short courses on ethics and professions in ecology and environmental science, and interact with seminars by guest speakers. • Participate in field trips illustrating the natural history of Southwestern Ohio.

For more information about our program please visit our website at: https://sites.google.com/a/miamioh.edu/ecoreu/home. Click on the Application tab at the top of the page and follow the instructions to apply. Please contact Patrick Garrett at ecoreu@miamioh.edu with any problems, questions, or concerns you may have about our program or the application process.

3) Job posting: Arizona Mud Turtle Technician

American Turtle Observatory (ATO; http://americanturtles.org) and Antioch University New England seek a Field Technician to study the ecology and seasonal behavior of Arizona Mud Turtles (Kinosternon arizonense), a monsoon-adapted species, in southern Arizona during the summer of 2017. This position will involve both field and office responsibilities and will run from May 15 – September 15, 2017 (start and end dates are negotiable).

Location: Southern Arizona, USA Website: http://americanturtles.org Salary: $1000 monthly stipend Start Date: May 15, 2017 End Date: September 15, 2017 Last Date to Apply: January 27, 2017 Application Materials: email a brief (<1 page) cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references as a single Word or PDF document Contact Person: Liz Willey Contact E-Mail: lisabeth.willey@gmail.com For more information, visit: http://www.americanturtles.org/arizona-mud-turtle-technician.html

Field responsibilities will involve trapping, seining, and hand- capturing mud turtles in remote environments near the border with Sonora, Mexico; daily radiotelemetry of ten adult Arizona Mud Turtles; entering and proofing all field data on a weekly basis; managing photographs; and following standard decontamination procedures to protect mud turtles as well as Chiricahua Leopard Frogs.

Office responsibilities will require careful data management in Microsoft Excel, ArcGIS, and/or GoogleEarth; coordinating monthly conference calls with project partners; helping to prepare a technical report; preparing a technical assistance handout to improve habitat management for Arizona Mud Turtles.

Qualifications Applicants should be enthusiastic and sociable, enjoy travel, and expect to work long hours in the field in difficult conditions (heat, cold, rain, insects). Applicants should enjoy working independently with multiple days of relative solitude, and be ready to independently prioritize research-related decisions based upon a strong grasp of project objectives. Applicants should also be able to interact in a professional manner by email and phone. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license; access to a personal vehicle in Arizona is preferred. Ideal candidates will be proficient in GPS and compass navigation and be able to interpret topographic maps and aerial photographs. Desired qualifications also include field experience with freshwater turtles in the wild, experience with radio-telemetry, ArcGIS, GoogleEarth, habitat modeling and conservation area planning.

4) Big Cat Research Opportunity in South Africa

Raven Adventures’ is seeking volunteers for the Big Cat Research Project’s 2017 season. Volunteers will spend two weeks in South Africa studying lion, leopard, and cheetah, monitoring population distribution, density, and effects of tourism. This opportunity is open to anyone looking to gain experience in fieldwork and animal behavior research while working in a small group setting. Volunteers should be self-motivated and enthusiastic, working long hours with responsibilities including, but not limited to: collecting behavioral field notes, organizing photographic identification of individual study animals, and general basecamp chores. Volunteer positions are tailored to the learning undergraduate student and no prior experience is necessary. Accommodations will be basic camping. Overall cost is $3,995 per session and includes roundtrip airfare from JFK to Johannesburg, all trip meals, and camping/research equipment.

Please send all inquiries to Sabrina Salome at sabrina@ravenadventures.com, and to begin the application process attach a copy of your CV or resume. Four sessions will be run this summer.

5) Interns needed for food web study

Dates:  Late March through early June

Location:  Carrizo Plain National Monument, California (60 miles east of San Luis Obispo)

Duties:  2 interns are needed to conduct a variety of animal surveys as part of a long-term food web study in the Carrizo Plain National Monument. The Carrizo is the largest remnant of the San Joaquin grassland ecosystem and contains many endangered plants and animals. Interns will work on a team of 3-5 people and will conduct a variety of surveys, focusing especially on mark-recapture of endangered kangaroo rats. Mark-recapture surveys of threatened squirrels, visual line transects for reptiles, pitfall trapping for invertebrates, and spotlight surveys for predators and lagomorphs may also be conducted, and team members will help with vegetation sampling. Interns will also take down precipitation plot equipment and assist with other duties as needed.

Requirements:  All applicants must be pursuing or have a bachelor’s degree in the natural sciences and have previous field experience.  Applicants must be able to start work by the last week of March and work through early to mid- June. A strong interest in natural history, conservation, and/or management and a high level of responsibility, organization, and motivation are require.  It is helpful to have PIT tagging experience, small mammal trapping experience, and familiarity with the plants and animals of California.  Must be flexible and live and work well with others in an isolated setting. Applicants must be able to maintain work quality and a positive attitude during challenging field conditions. Applicants must be in good physical condition and experienced with or able to tolerate hot and cold field conditions. Must be able to work long hours and be comfortable working at night. Prefer applicants with experience and strong interest in grassland or desert species.

Work schedule:  Approx. 40 hrs per week, variable throughout season

Compensation:  $600-800/month. Housing is provided at an active research facility on the Monument.

To Apply:  Please email a cover letter, resume, and contact information for 2-3 references as a single Word or PDF attachment to Rachel Endicott at rendicott@berkeley.edu.  Please apply by January 27, 2017.

6) Marine science REU at Texas A&M University – Galveston campus

Texas A&M University Galveston invites talented undergraduate students from diverse backgrounds to participate in a 10-week immersive experience in Summer 2017 to conduct semi-independent research that will address the complexities and challenges related to our world’s oceans and coastal environments through OCEANUS (Ocean and Coastal Research Experiences for Undergraduates), an exciting interdisciplinary program funded by the National Science Foundation (Award Number: 1560242). Target majors include biology (evolution, ecology), physics, chemistry, environmental science, geosciences, maritime industry/commerce, computer science and engineering majors.

To apply, please visit: https://apply2.cse.tamu.edu/apps/OCEANUS

7) NPS 2017 Young Leaders in Climate Change Internships

NPS Seeks Applicants for 2017 Young Leaders in Climate Change Internships The NPS Climate Change Response Program and the University of Washington are pleased to invite graduate and upper-level undergraduate students and recent graduates to apply to the 2017 Young Leaders in Climate Change (YLCC) Initiative! The YLCC is a paid summer internship to work on diverse issues related to climate change and its effects in national parks. Applications are due January 19, 2017 by 12:01 PM PST. https://www.futureparkleaders.org/past-projects/

8) Summer Forest Monitoring Technician (PA and WV)

The Pennsylvania State University Department of Ecosystem Science and Management is hiring two seasonal technicians to collect forest monitoring data in eight national parks in Pennsylvania and West Virginia, including the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, New River Gorge National River, and Gauley River National Recreational Area. This work is part of a long-term monitoring program that provides park staff with crucial information on the condition of the parks’ vegetation and how this condition is changing over time.

The positions begin in mid-May 2017 and continue for 12 – 15 weeks with compensation of $14-16 per hour depending on experience.  The technicians will travel to and be housed in or near a national park each week.  Reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed.

Demonstrated experience in forest ecology, meticulous data collection skills, strong work ethic, and positive attitude are required. Applicants should enjoy working outdoors in a variety of conditions and be able to identify common trees and shrubs of Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Applicants must be able to follow complex detailed field protocols and work as a member of a team.  The ability to hike and work long hours in adverse conditions (e.g. steep terrain, hot/humid weather, stinging/biting insects, irritating plants) and in remote field sites is a must.  Applicants should be able to navigate in the woods by compass and using GPS. Additional tasks may include data entry and quality control of data.

If interested, please send: 1) a brief cover letter, 2) a resume, and 3) contact information for three references in a single Word or PDF document to Stephanie Perles [sjp16 at psu dot edu] by February 17, 2017.

9) Harvard Forest Undergraduate Internship Opportunity

Applications are now open for our fantastic (and well-paid) paid summer internships in plant & microbial ecology, art/design, computer science, biogeochemistry, conservation policy,  history, engineering, etc.

Depending on the project, students will conduct field and lab-work in old-growth forests,  historical archives, art/design studios and museums, biogeochemistry labs, long-term forest  study plots, data-rich computer environments, at the Harvard Farm and even at Henry David Thoreau’s cabin site at Walden.

Participants work closely with a faculty mentor and live on-site in our beautiful farmhouse  dorm. In addition to their research, students attend career panels, evening workshops, seminars and field trips.

We welcome applications from students at any U.S. college, community college or university.

Application instructions and FAQ’s are here: http://harvardforest.fas.harvard.edu/other-tags/reu

9) Positions Available: Native Seed Collection Internship at Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Member will provide national service at Lake Mead National Recreation Area, a host site for the Nevada Conservation Corps AmeriCorps Program.

Description: Working collaboratively with Lake Mead National Recreation Area (LMNRA), the Great Basin Institute is recruiting three interns to assist the seed manager with scouting plant populations for seed collection and collecting native plant seeds. Work will include documenting all seed related activities and collections, manually cleaning seed by hand, and assisting with preparation of seed for seed storage for future restoration projects throughout southern Nevada and northwestern Arizona.  This position is an entry level internship that consists mostly of labor in the backcountry and at the Lake Mead Native Plant Nursery. At times, position also requires prolonged periods of sitting while cleaning seed.

Primary Responsibilities: •           Surveying and accessing suitable native plant populations by vehicle or on foot, and identification of native and non-native plants; •   Assist with weeding and irrigating native plant seed increase fields; •               Work on a 4-5 person seed collection team led by the native seed manager for Lake Mead NRA; •         Intern may also work with 5 to 10 member youth service groups and/or volunteers on seed collection projects; •        Must be able to operate a 4-wheel-drive vehicle and pass a federal background check.

Secondary responsibilities: additional tasks and duties that are preferential but secondary •               Assisting with native plant nursery operations including, but not limited to irrigation setup and repair, plant propagation, weed removal, and other general nursery operation; •               Additional duties may include checking backcountry traffic counters, checking weather stations, picking-up trash, rare plant plot monitoring, restoring off-road tracks, repair backcountry barriers, installing backcountry signs, watering plantings, installing plants, and other tasks associated with Mojave Desert restoration.

Related Responsibilities: •           Participate in trainings provided by Lake Mead NRA staff and community partners; •  Meet with Host Site Supervisor on a regular basis; •         Participate in community service days organized by NCC Program; and •            Participate in regular AmeriCorps team meetings.

Compensation: This is an AmeriCorps position, and candidates will receive a living stipend of $7,800 for the season. This is not an hourly wage or a salary and is paid to members every other week throughout the service term. Upon completion of AmeriCorps service, members shall receive an additional education award in the amount of $2,865 that can be used for paying off qualified student loans or paying tuition for a Title IV accredited college.

Qualifications: •               Dedication to the position and the AmeriCorps Service Contract •               Motivated, self-starter who is detail oriented; •  Flexibility to handle competing and changing priorities; •      Ability or willingness to learn how to identify  native and non-native plants of the desert southwest •               Ability to drive 4×4 vehicle •        Ability or willingness to learn how to navigate in the backcountry using maps and iphones or GPS units •           Ability or willingness to learn how to use iphones and/or GPS units such as Garmins, Mesas, and Trimbles to collect data •             Ability to use Microsoft Office Programs •            Ability to do physical labor in the backcountry •          Ability to sit for prolonged periods of time •               Motivated to learn about the park’s resources • Ability to communicate with park staff in an appropriate manner in written and verbal form •    Possess clean, valid, state-issued driver’s license; and •     Meet AmeriCorps eligibility requirements: (1) U.S. citizenship or legal resident alien status, (2) eligible to receive an AmeriCorps Education Award (limit of four in a lifetime, or equivalent of two full-time terms of service), and (3) pass National Sex Offender Public Registry (NSOPR) and federal criminal background checks.

How to Apply: Please follow this link to apply directly through our online portal: http://crcareers.thegreatbasininstitute.org/careers/careers.aspx? rf=ECOLOG&req=2016-ACI-026

10) Summer 2017 REU at the Pymatuning Lab of Ecology

The Richards-Zawacki lab at the University of Pittsburgh invites undergraduate applicants for a 10-week summer research experience at the Pymatuning Lab of Ecology in northwestern Pennsylvania (http://www.biology.pitt.edu/facilities/pymatuning). This position is part of the National Science Foundation’s Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program. Ongoing work in the Richards-Zawacki lab aims to clarify the relationship between climate and the dynamics of chytridiomycosis, a fungal disease that threatens amphibian populations on several continents. The successful applicant will work collaboratively with other members of the Richards-Zawacki lab to survey local amphibians for Batrachochytrium fungi, the pathogens that cause chytridiomycosis, and also design and carry out a study to investigate the role of pond community characteristics on the seasonal dynamics of these infections. Room and board at the Pymatuning Lab of Ecology will be provided, along with transportation and a stipend of $500/week.

To apply, please send a one page personal statement (about your scientific interests and how this REU will support your professional goals), your resume or cv, unofficial transcripts, and the names of two professional references (including title, address, phone number and email address) to Dr. Cori Richards-Zawacki (cori.zawacki@pitt.edu).  Applications are due March 3, 2017.

11) Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute –Internship in Forest Trophic Interactions

The Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) is seeking two interns to participate in a European Research Council funded project addressing the ecological determinants of tropical and temperate trends in insect diversity. To answer key questions on global insect distribution, we are applying quantitative surveys of plant-herbivore-parasitoid food webs within paired sets of tropical and temperate forests from six continents, in Papua New Guinea (PNG), Gabon, Panama, the Czech Republic, Japan, and USA. This internship will be based in the CTFS-ForestGEO-Forest Ecosystems & Climate lab (PI: Kristina J. Anderson-Teixeira), which conducts a range of research with the overall goal of understanding the dynamics of forest ecosystems worldwide in an era of global change. Candidates should be advanced undergraduates or recent university graduates and have coursework in ecology, conservation biology, entomology, environmental sciences, or a closely related field. Field experience in terrestrial ecosystem ecology, forestry, entomology, or a related field is essential plus the ability to follow established survey and protocols, and collect detailed and accurate data. Candidates must have the ability to work in the field for prolonged hours in hot and humid conditions, to work independently, and to collaborate effectively as part of a research team. This is a 6-month position with a start date in mid-April 2017. The position(s) will be compensated with a stipend sufficient to cover living expenses, potentially including on-site housing. To apply, please email a cover letter describing your qualifications and interest in the position, CV, and contact information for 3 references to Erika Gonzalez-Akre at gonzalezeb@si.edu. Deadline for application is January 31, 2017. The Smithsonian Institution values and seeks a diverse workforce; female and minority candidates are encouraged to apply.

12) Intern Opportunity – Black Tailed Prairie Dogs

Job Description and Duties: We are looking for 5 interns to be involved with a field ecology project on black-tailed prairie dogs for the period of Mar 1, 2017 to Aug 31, 2017. The project investigates the ecology of a wild population of prairie dogs in Grasslands National Park, SK and will involve live-trapping, handling and monitoring. Grasslands National Park represents one of the largest remaining tracts of native prairie in Canada, and prairie dog towns are home to a diversity of iconic grassland species (e.g., burrowing owls, swift fox, bison). Interns will have the opportunity of seeing all of these species, plus the many more resident in the Park. This is an excellent opportunity to gain experience working with a population of wild mammals in a spectacular setting and in collaboration with university, park and zoo researchers.

International applicants: If applicants are not Canadians or permanent residents, they will be required to apply to enter Canada as Visiting Research Students. To be eligible for this program, you must be an undergraduate or graduate student or be in between degrees (e.g., following graduation from a bachelors degree). As part of this program, applicants will be registered at the U of S in a non-credit activity. Applicants are eligible for this program for a maximum of 6 months per 12 month period.

Application forms and information are available at http://grad.usask.ca/admissions/alternate-applicants/visiting-research-student.php. If you are interested in this program, please contact us (contact details below) and we will guide you through the process.

Skills Required: These positions are best suited to applicants with interests in ecology, evolutionary biology, wildlife, field biology, and/or conservation biology. As evidence of this, applicants must either be enrolled in, or have graduated from, a relevant discipline. The field house and study population are isolated (the nearest town is approx. 45 min away) and, as such, successful applicants need to be able to cope under these conditions, enjoy the outdoors, be up-beat, positive, responsible and work well as a member of a team. Evidence of these abilities (gained, for example, through previous involvement on field projects or extended back-packing trips) is required.

Terms of Employment: These are volunteer positions and a salary is not provided. We will be staying in Parks Canada housing in the heart of the park. Volunteers are required to provide for their own travel to Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Travel between the field station and Saskatoon is provided.

If you wish to apply for one of these posts then please send a CV with a cover letter and contact details for three references (with e-mail addresses), by email to Jeff Lane (uofsbtpdproject@gmail.com) by January 21, 2017. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.