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Assistantship and Fellowships:

Auburn University: Graduate Research Assistantships (2 - Ph.D.) are available with the Alabama Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, located at Auburn University, Auburn, AL. The selectees will conduct research to support the development of decision support tools for evaluating conservation strategies under competing models of climate change and response by aquatic and terrestrial wildlife populations. B.S. required (M.S. heavily preferred) in wildlife biology, conservation biology, ecology, biometrics, or a related field. The candidate must demonstrate commitment to publication of results in peer-reviewed outlets, and strong potential to work collaboratively with multiple researchers on a highly visible topic. Starts January 6, 2010. Stipend: $18k + tuition waiver. To apply: Email cover letter, resume, copies of transcripts and GRE scores,and contact information for 3 professional references to: Dr. James B. Grand, Leader, Alabama Cooperative Fisheries and Wildlife Research Unit, 3301 School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences, Auburn, AL 36849-5418. Ph: (334) 844-4796, FAX: (334) 844-1084, grandjb@auburn.edu. Posted: 8/27/09.

Baylor University: Profs. Boris Lau and Bryan Brooks are jointly recruiting outstanding PhD students to work on projects studying surface dynamics and ecological exposure and consequences of emerging contaminants (trace organics and nanoparticles). This is an excellent opportunity for students who are interested to become experts in the emerging field that requires the crossover of aquatic ecology, toxicology and environmental nanoscience. Baylor University provides access and training to state-of-the art research facilities situated in the newly opened Baylor Sciences Building. The students will be part of a multidisciplinary team of ecologists, environmental engineers, chemists, geoscientists, toxicologists and microbiologists from a newly formed Institute of Ecology, Earth, and Environmental Sciences. Core multiuser laboratories with permanent scientific staff in aquatic science, spatial science, molecular biosciences and mass spectrometry are available to support graduate research pursuits. Successful applicants must possess a strong academic record and excellent English communication skills. Highly motivated candidates with a BS or MS degree in relevant science and/or engineering disciplines will be considered. Qualified students will be funded through teaching and/or research assistantships that provide tuition remission, competitive stipends, health benefits, and travel support to attend professional meetings. Prospective candidates are encouraged to submit their CVs to Dr. Bryan Brooks (bryan_brooks@baylor.edu) and/or Dr. Boris Lau (boris_lau@baylor.edu). Please use “Lau-Brooks Research Opportunities” in the subject line. Review of applicants will continue until all positions are filled. Preferred start date: January or August 2010. Posted: 11/2/09.

Baylor University: The Aquatic Ecology Lab is seeking applicants for up to two PhD graduate assistantships starting summer or fall 2010. Applicants may apply to PhD programs in Biology or Ecological, Earth and Environmental Sciences (EEES). Applicants may wish to apply to both programs to ensure full consideration for assistantships. We are particularly interested in applicants who will structure their PhD research within one or more of the following (or related) ongoing research areas in the lab: 1) The collective role of watershed physiography, upland vegetation, and riparian wetlands in constraining nutrient availability and energy pathways in small, salmon-rearing streams on the Kenai Peninsula, Alaska. 2) How does nutrient enrichment influence biogeochemical processes in stream bacterial-algal (periphyton) communities? How do consumers (macroinvertebrates and fish) interact with nutrient enrichment to influence stream biogeochemical processes? 3) How have reduced hydrological connectivity and increased flow diversions and effluent discharges influenced historical fish species distributions and genetic diversity in stream networks in Texas? Baylor affords outstanding research and teaching facilities. The Aquatic Ecology Lab is housed in the new 500,000 sq. ft Baylor Sciences Building and recently moved into brand-new expansion space to accommodate growth of the lab. Student offices are situated adjacent to the lab and other aquatic teaching and research labs, most notably the Center for Reservoir and Aquatic Systems Research, a state-of-the-art analytical laboratory supporting a suite of water, soil, and tissue chemical analyses. A stable-isotope mass spectrometer lab available on-site for student research also is opening in spring 2009. Off campus, the 180-acre Lake Waco Wetlands supports our new Baylor Experimental Aquatic Research (BEAR) outdoor stream facility, one of the largest and most realistic experimental stream facilities in North America. Baylor offers excellent financial support for highly qualified applicants. Annual stipends range from $18-25k, with the higher stipends awarded to top applicants. Admission to either Biology or EEES PhD programs guarantees full tuition remission (up to a $20k value per year), health insurance benefits, and additional funding opportunities to cover fees, books, etc. To apply to Biology and/or EEES, please review university admission guidelines. In addition to these application materials, applicants should possess an M.S. degree or substantial undergraduate research experience and a GRE v+q score of 1200 or higher. Applicants also much possess a U.S. driver's license. If you meet these criteria and are interested in applying, please contact Dr. Ryan S. King (Ryan_S_King@baylor.edu) for more information. For full consideration, applications must be received by February 15, 2010. Posted: 9/21/09.

Boston University: I invite applications for doctoral work in the Templer lab beginning fall 2010 in the areas of biogeochemistry, forest ecology, global change biology and related fields. Applicants should be independent and highly motivated with academic research and/or field experience in plant ecology, soil ecology or nutrient cycling. Funding is available to work on a project examining the impacts of variation in winter climate on forest productivity and nutrient dynamics. My research program covers a broad range of topics including human impacts on the global nitrogen cycle, the effects of exotic pests on forest biogeochemistry, nutrients inputs from fog to coastal forest ecosystems and the role of disturbances in nutrient uptake by trees. Our lab has excellent research facilities, including access to three isotope ratio mass spectrometers in our department. I encourage prospective students to contact me, Pam Templer (ptempler@bu.edu), to discuss potential projects and to set up an interview. Formal review of applications will begin in our department December 7, 2009, but interested applicants should contact me before the application deadline if possible. Posted: 10/29/09.

Bradley University: We invite students to apply for a graduate assitantship for a MS candidate in the Biology Department. The long-term goal of the research project the student will work on will be to evaluate the impacts of garlic mustard, a recent aggressive invader, on forest soils across a broad range of forest soils. The goal will also be to improve our understanding of the mechanisms by which garlic mustard invades and subsequently acts as an ecological change agent in these forests. The student will receive a stipend for the academic year and summer and tuition. The successful applicant must meet the requirements for unconditional admission to the Graduate School and Biology Department at BU. Visit the Graduate School webpage and see the graduate school catalog for details. Please also see the requirements for the MS in biology (pdf). Qualified applicants should contact Sherri Morris sjmorris@bradley.edu for more details. Posted: 4/2/09, revised: 6/3/09.

Brown University: Ph.D. in Terrestrial Biogeochemistry and M.S. in Environmental Science. I am currently seeking 1-2 Ph.D. students and 1 M.S. student to explore questions related to tropical biogeochemistry. My lab works broadly at the intersection between biology and geology to explore spatial patterns in tropical ecosystems, and the consequences of those patterns for the impacts of land use change on tropical ecosystems. A few of the current projects in the lab include investigations of: nutrient availability and landscape formation in the Talamanca Range of Costa Rica, the interaction between selective logging and nutrient dynamics in the lowland forests of Imataca, Venezuela, the effects of climate and soil age on plant/nutrient interactions in the Hawaiian Islands, and the impacts of industrialized soy production in Brazil. A few other projects are described on the lab website. Applicants should have a strong academic record, experience in either ecological or geological field work, chemical and isotopic analyses, or, ideally, some combination thereof. For more information on program details, potential Ph.D. students can visit the Dept. or Ecology and Evolutionary Biology website, and potential M.S. students can visit the Center for Environmental Studies website. Interested applicants should email CV, transcript, test scores, and a letter describing personal and research interests to stephen_porder@brown.edu. Posted: 9/3/09.

California State University, Bakersfield: We are looking for Master's student to work on a research assistantship on an NSF funded project examining xylem tradeoffs of evergreen and deciduous chaparral species. Students with interests in plant water relations, ecophysiology, physiology, or functional anatomy are encouraged to apply. Salary is $18,500/ year plus tuition and the assistantship is for two years. Inquiries and applications should be sent to Brandon Pratt (rpratt@csub.edu; 661-654-2033 ; www.autecology.com), Department of Biology. Applicants should email 1) a current curriculum vita, 2) a statement of research interests; and 3) the names, phone numbers and email addresses of three references. The position is available to start fall 2009. Posted: 6/12/09.

Clark University: PhD Positions in Earth System Science. Applications are invited for PhD assistantships within the Graduate School of Geography. Assistantships cover tuition, provide an annual stipend, and include eligibility for a competitive fellowship. Clark's Earth System Science program features expertise in terrestrial ecosystems and global change, hydrology, forest ecology, biogeography, Arctic System Science, remote sensing of land cover change, landscape ecology, human dimensions, and GISci. To apply, send a completed application form and personal statement, three letters of reference, and official transcript(s) with a $50 (application fee). For complete details see: PhD Program, or contact Brenda Nikas-Hayes, BNikasHayes@clarku.edu, 508-793-7337. Applicants are encouraged to communicate with prospective advisors. Posted: 10/12/09.

Clemson University: We are seeking applications for a M.S. student to pursue research applying remote sensing technology to the detection and assessment of geographically isolated wetlands in North Carolina’s coastal plain. Qualities and experience we wish to see in the applicant include: skill applying remote sensing technology to natural resource questions, understanding the ecology of isolated wetlands, strong work ethic, independence, discretion, and positive team attitude. The position will involve a season of field work and thus the applicant should be prepared to work in remote, forested environments. An undergraduate degree in Wildlife Ecology, Environmental Sciences, Biology, Remote Sensing, or related topics is required by time of appointment. Funding is expected for a January 2010 start, and will include a stipend of $15k/year, tuition waiver, and research expenses. Student will be co-advised by Dr. Jessica Homyack of Weyerhaeuser NR Company and will pursue their degree in the department of Forestry and Natural Resources at Clemson University under the direction of Dr. Rob Baldwin. Please submit C.V., transcript, and list of three references to Dr. Rob Baldwin (baldwi6@clemson.edu). Posted: 9/29/09.

Clemson University: One MS graduate student is sought to conduct research in fire ecology within a funded research project entitled “Fuel Dynamics in South Pine Beetle Killed Stands and its Implication to Fire Behavior”. The objective of this project is to study fuel dynamics and its implication to fire behavior in forest stands killed by southern pine beetle (SPB). Specifically, we will measure fuels in healthy stands and stands killed by SPB outbreak at different years so that fuel dynamics (i.e., change with time since SPB kill) can be modeled and compared with healthy stands. Based on measured fuel data, we will model fire behavior and fire effects to understand the consequences of fuel changes. We are seeking an outstanding candidate with a degree in Forestry, Biology, Ecology, and Environmental Sciences. The student will be offered a full graduate research assistantship ($15k/year) plus a tuition waiver. The assistantship is for 2 years, which is renewable annually based on satisfactory performance. Competitive university and/or college scholarships are also available for outstanding candidates, and students working in our lab have had a great track record to obtain these scholarships. The assistantship will start in August 2009 or as soon as possible. If you are interested, contact: Dr. Geoff Wang, Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, 261 Lehotsky Hall, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634-0317 (Phone: 864-656-4864; Email: gwang@clemson.edu). In your initial contact, please send the following information: resume, statement of your research interest, GPAs, GRE score, and TOFEL scores (for foreign students). Posted: 7/1/09.

Clemson University: One MS graduate student is sought to conduct silvicultural research to evaluate dormant season herbicide treatment methods for Chinese privet at Congaree National Park. The objectives of this project are 1) installation of multiple large-scale demonstration plots within bottomland hardwood forest tracts on the Congaree National Park, 2) measurement of the control level received from various low-volume foliar dormant season treatments, 3) measurement of the plant diversity impacts of various treatments to determine if this application method can provide landscape level control within the park, while minimizing impacts to non-target species. This is a cooperative project initiated by Congaree National Park, and the student is expected to work closely with the park staff. We are seeking an outstanding candidate with a degree in Forestry, Biology, Ecology, and Environmental Sciences. Strong interests in botany, especially skills in plant taxonomy, are desirable. The student will be offered a full graduate research assistantship ($15k/year) plus a tuition waiver. The assistantship is for 2 years, which is renewable annually based on satisfactory performance. Competitive university and/or college scholarships are also available for outstanding candidates, and students working in our lab have had a great track record to obtain these scholarships. The assistantship will start in May or August 2010. If you are interested, contact: Dr. Geoff Wang, Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, 261 Lehotsky Hall, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634-0317 (Phone: 864-656-4864; Email: gwang@clemson.edu). In your initial contact, please send the following information: resume, statement of your research interest, GPAs, GRE score, and TOFEL score (for foreign students). Posted: 7/1/09.

Clemson University: One Ph.D. graduate student is sought to conduct research in forest ecology within a newly funded research project entitled “Temporal and Spatial Patterns of Pine Mortality in the Southeastern United States”. The project will address two questions: (1) is there a decline in southern pine forests that are different from historical (healthy) patterns of growth and mortality? (2) what are the patterns of decline in time and space? These questions will be addressed at stand, landscape, and regional scales using data obtained from remote sensing, forest inventory, and field sampling. Aerial photos and various satellite images will be used to reconstruct the historic forest dynamics to explore possible pine decline. Tree ring analysis (dendrochronology) will be used to study historical growth pattern and investigate possible role of global/climatic change on pine decline. The Ph.D. student is expected to working in the area of either remote sensing or dendrochronology. We are seeking an outstanding candidate with BS and/or MS in Forestry, Biology, Ecology, Geography, and Environmental Sciences. A past experience in conducting tree ring analyses or applying remote sensing technique to ecological research is desirable. The student will be offered a full graduate research assistantship ($19k/year) plus a tuition waiver. Additionally, competitive university and/or college scholarships are available for outstanding candidates, and students working in our lab have had a great track record to obtain these scholarships. Supplementary teaching assistantship may also be available to suitable candidate. The assistantship is for 3.5 years, which is renewable annually based on satisfactory performance. The assistantship will start in January 2010 or as soon as possible. If you are interested, please contact Dr. Geoff Wang, Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, 261 Lehotsky Hall, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634-0317 (Phone: 864-656-4864; Email: gwang@clemson.edu). Posted: 7/1/09, revised: 9/4/09.

Coastal Carolina University: We offer a graduate degree (M.S.) in Coastal Marine and Wetland Studies. The program consists of 24 hrs of coursework and 6 hrs of thesis research. Courses are taught primarily by faculty members from two academic departments: biology and marine science. The coursework involves three core classes stressing coastal physical processes, ecology, and environmental policy. Located near coastal marshes, swamps, a large unregulated river, barrier islands, and the ocean, the program offers exceptional opportunities for basic and applied research. Students pursue projects that contribute to characterization and preservation of the coastal ecosystem and organisms that thrive in this ecosystem. Assistantships and Fellowships (GK-12) are available. Contact: Dr. Jim Luken, CMWS Program Coordinator (joluken@coastal.edu). Posted: 10/12/09.

College of Charleston: graduate degree (M.S.) in Marine Biology. The program seeks to provide knowledge and skills that will allow graduates to pursue further graduate study and/or successfully pursue professional employment in the marine science field. The program consists of 26-27 hours of coursework and 4 hours of thesis research. The coursework involves four core classes: Marine Ecology, Physical Oceanography, Physiology and Cell Biology of Marine Organisms, and Biometry, in addition to a diverse selection of elective courses. The program is based at the Grice Marine Laboratory, across the harbor from historic downtown Charleston and the main campus of the College of Charleston. Located near coastal marshes, tidal creeks and rivers, barrier islands, and the ocean, the program offers exceptional opportunities for basic and applied research. The cooperative nature of this program provides access to the facilities of all participating institutions at the Fort Johnson Marine Science Center: the Hollings Marine Laboratory, the SC Department of Natural Resources, the National Ocean Service/NOAA, National Institute of Standards and Technology, the Medical University of SC and Grice Marine Laboratory. These partners comprise a large and diverse faculty, including approximately 110 researchers ready to guide students in their respective area of interest. Training and research opportunities include marine ecology and conservation, biodiversity, evolutionary biology, cell and molecular biology, physiology, aquatic toxicology, fisheries science, mariculture, microbiology, biomedicine, and marine genomics. Research conducted by graduate students is typically presented to the public at local colloquia, national and international meetings, and through peer-reviewed publications. One distinctive feature of the program is that incoming students have the freedom to take a semester to meet faculty and learn more about the broad field of marine biology before choosing their research project and thesis advisor. The program has available teaching and research assistantships in which out-of-state portion of tuition fees may be waived. New students are guaranteed teaching assistantships for at least the first academic year. There is an average enrollment of about 50 graduate students in the marine biology program; almost all of these students receive financial assistance in the form of teaching or research assistantships. A number of scholarships are also available for new and current students, including a new scholarship program in marine genomics for a current stipend of $22k per year. Contact: Dr. Craig Plante, Director, Graduate Program in Marine Biology, plantec@cofc.edu, 843-953-9187. Posted: 8/24/09.

Colorado State University: PhD Assistantship in Ecology: Influence of Climate Change on the Water and Carbon Budgets and Vegetation of Rocky Mountain Peatlands. A graduate research assistantship is available to analyze the short and long-term influences of climate change on fens in the Rocky Mountains of the U.S. We will analyze hydrologic, carbon and nutrient dynamics in fens located in areas with different precipitation regimes (San Juan Mountains, Colorado and Medicine Bow Mountains, Wyoming) and at different elevations. The student will conduct detailed hydrologic analysis of well and piezometer nests, carbon gas fluxes, plant production and decomposition dynamics, as well as long-term history of peat accumulation and vegetation composition. This project is a collaborative effort between Colorado State University (CSU) and the USDA Forest Service Rocky Mountain Research Station. The student will be enrolled in the Graduate Degree Program in Ecology at CSU, and housed in the Department of Forest, Rangeland and Watershed Stewardship. Applicants must possess a Masters degree in a suitable scientific field (hydrology, wetland ecology, or plant ecology), be physically capable of working in wilderness setting at high elevation sites (up to 3500 m elevation), and performing demanding work. Student will be provided with a monthly stipend, and tuition and field expenses are provided. Send letter of interest, CV and list of references to Dr. David J. Cooper (David.Cooper@colostate.edu). Posted: 10/29/09.

Colorado State University: Ph.D. Graduate Research Opportunity: Wildebeest Foraging and Migration. The Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory at CSU, in collaboration with the African Conservation Centre and University of Maine, is conducting research on how changes in Kenyan rangelands are altering wildebeest forage acquisition. Fragmentation is reducing the permeability of landscapes, while the increased frequency of drought is leading animals to need to move greater distances to find sufficient forage. To explore these opposing drivers, we will be tracking collared wildebeest in three Kenyan conservation areas, modeling future fragmentation in those areas, and using a multi-agent model to simulate wildebeest movements. Scenarios will be used to quantify wildebeest responses to different levels of fragmentation and drought frequency and severity. A Graduate Research Assistantship is available for a well-qualified Ph.D. student to develop an independent research project within the context of the broader research. The project will include a field component, which may include the relationship between wildebeest behavior and vegetation, landscapes, wildlife, or livestock. The Ph.D. student will be working with Dr. Boone and other project participants to construct and use the multi-agent simulation model. We seek a well qualified and self-motivated student holding an M.S. degree. Computer programming experience will be helpful, as will an ability to work effectively in rural Kenya. To apply, send the following information by email to Randall Boone: 1) a cover letter outlining your research interests and experience, 2) a detailed CV, and 3) contact information for at least 2 academic referees. Members of under-represented groups are encouraged to apply. Graduate student stipend and tuition fees are available for 3 year, subject to satisfactory progress in both coursework and research. Contact: Dr. Randall Boone, Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory, 1499 Campus Delivery, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1499. Email: rboone@nrel.colostate.edu, Phone: 970-491-1806. Posted: 9/23/09.

Colorado State University: A PhD fellowship is available to work with Drs. John McKay and Pat Byrne. We are looking for a highly motivated individual with a solid training in Evolution, Plant Physiology and Genomics and with the demonstrated ability to carry out outstanding research. The applied goal of the project is to improve the drought stress tolerance of winter wheat by incorporating germplasm primarily from the wild relative Aegilops tauschii. The fundamental goal of the project is to identify and physiologically characterize genes and genomic regions underlying variation in yield and its sensitivity to drought by combining plant breeding with genome-wide molecular techniques and whole-plant physiology. The position is available January 2009, but the start is flexible. The successful applicant will participate in a short-course in breeding for drought adaptation, which will take place in June 2010. Salary and benefits are competitive, and CSU is an excellent academic environment for the study of plant biology. Our lab group has excellent interactions with colleagues in bioinformatics, plant physiology, ecology, evolutionary genetics and molecular biology. Fort Collins is located on the Front Range of the Rockies and is ranked highly among great places to live. If you are interested in this position, please send a letter of interest and a C.V. in pdf format via e-mail to jkmckay@colostate.edu. More information. This position is restricted to US citizens and permanent residents. Posted: 9/11/09.

Colorado State University: PhD research assistantship in ecophysiology / ecohydrology, Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture or Graduate Degree Program in Ecology. Anticipated start date: January 1, 2010. Required Qualifications: A Bachelor's degree in crop science, ecology, environmental sciences, forestry, horticulture, or plant biology related discipline or field of research applicable to the position. Preferred qualifications include: MS in research-related field, practical experience with electrical and mechanical maintenance of climatological, ecophysiological, and hydrological instruments. Other preferred qualifications include knowledge of geographic information systems, remote sensing, and computer programming skills. The successful candidate will be flexible, able to enjoy working in the field under high heat, sun, and wind exposure (as the research is primarily conducted outdoors during summer months), work reliably both independently and as part of a team, make sound judgments relative to analytical processes, recognize the extreme accuracy and consistency essential to long term research, assemble and record accurate data, follow detailed oral and/or written instructions exactly, communicate well both verbally and in writing, and have some supervisory skills. Acute attention to small details, enthusiasm, and the ability to get along well with supervisors and principle investigators are essential. Additional Requirements: Driver's license. Work is based in Fort Collins, CO with a satellite research site in OH. The student will join an interdisciplinary research team studying the application of wireless sensor technology to measure and model plant water use. Specific field responsibilities include plant physiology measurements; sap flow measurements; soil moisture measurements; collection of hydrology data; and frequent maintenance of field instruments, equipment, and infrastructure. The position will entail manual labor such as installation and maintenance of experimental study infrastructure. The individual will work with a wide variety of woody plant taxa and will be required to learn identification of ~100 plant species in the research area. General responsibilities include collecting and recording moderately complex data in both field and laboratory environments in accordance with established protocols, limited data entry, maintaining organizational and historical data for each study, aiding principle investigators with data collection and experimental design (assisting with design, testing, and/or modification of experimental equipment as well as installation of experimental apparatus). Review of applications will begin August 30, 2009 and continue until filled. Submit letter of interest, resume or CV, copy of unofficial transcripts, and 3 references with contact information. Electronic submissions must be in Microsoft Word, Rich Text Format (RTF), or PDF. Other formats will not be accepted. Reply to: William L. Bauerle, Associate Professor, 1173 Campus Delivery, Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1173. Voice: 970-491-4088, Fax: 970-492-7745, Email: bauerle@colostate.edu. Posted: 8/17/09.

Colorado State University: PhD Graduate Research Opportunity: African Savanna Ecology and Dynamics. The Natural Resources Ecology Laboratory, with collaborators at the University of Bamako and the Institut Polytechnique Rural in Mali, West Africa, is conducting research on the ecology and vegetation dynamics of West African savannas. Our aim is to investigate the interaction and feedbacks between climate, human management, fire and herbivory in controlling savanna vegetation structure and diverse ecosystem functions. We are also exploring the trade-offs inherent in alternative management approaches with respect to the ecological and economic value of these savannas, and relationships to livelihoods in the pastoral and agro-pastoral communities of the region. Five long-term experimental research sites have been established across the West African savanna rainfall gradient, with experimental manipulations that exclude fire and grazing, and on-going measurements of vegetation responses to climate and disturbance. A Graduate Research Assistantship is currently available for a well-qualified PhD student to develop an independent research project within the larger context of the experiment. Potential research could include experimental additions to, or new observations within, the existing research infrastructure. Fields of interest include (but are not limited to), (a) experimental studies of vegetation, fauna, biogeochemical and/or soil interactions and responses to climate and disturbance; (b) studies that examine the ecological and socioeconomic relevance of climate variability and management options in West Africa; and (c) studies that place West African savannas in the context of global savanna ecology and ecological theory. We seek a well qualified and self-motivated student able to work under sometimes very difficult conditions at remote field sites in rural West Africa. Knowledge of French or other local languages would be beneficial. Prospective students are welcome to contact us first to discuss potential projects. To apply, send the following information by email to Niall Hanan: 1) a cover letter outlining your research interests and experience, 2) a detailed CV, and 3) contact information for at least 2 academic referees. Graduate student stipend and tuition fees are available for up to 4 years, subject to satisfactory progress in both coursework and research. The position will remain open until filled. Contact: Dr. Niall Hanan, Natural Resource Ecology Lab, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523. Email: niall@nrel.colostate.edu, Phone: 970-491-0240. Posted: 8/11/09.

Dartmouth College: Dartmouth is seeking applicants for our NSF Integrative Graduate Education and Research Traineeship (IGERT) program in Polar Environmental Change. Polar systems are at the forefront of global change science research. We are an interdisciplinary graduate program in polar sciences and engineering that merges expertise and facilities from science and engineering departments at Dartmouth College with the U.S. Army Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory (CRREL), creating one of the premier centers of scientific expertise in polar research. The investment of Dartmouth's Dickey Center for International Understanding and its Institute of Arctic Studies in forming relationships with Greenlandic institutions and Inuit leaders provides the opportunity for intensive field training in Greenland where science, policy and indigenous issues of the north can be explored. Collectively these experiences provide rigorous training in polar and related sciences and produce scientists wi! than advanced knowledge of the role of science in policy and the ethics of conducting research with indigenous people. Research training is coupled with a coordinated core curriculum that focuses on three components of Arctic or Antarctic systems responding to rapid change in climate: 1) the cryosphere - glacial ice, snow, sea ice systems; 2) terrestrial ecosystems and biogeochemical linkages between the soil, plant, and animal system; and, 3) human systems - the process of policy making in political and social systems where Western science and traditional knowledge provide information. Applicants should visit the Dartmouth IGERT website for information on participating departments, requirements, and application procedures. For further information, email the Program Manager at IGERT@dartmouth.edu or the IGERT Principal Investigator at Ross.Virginia@dartmouth.edu. Posted: 10/30/09.

Dartmouth College: The Department of Biological Sciences Graduate Program in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology invites applications from prospective Ph.D. students. We offer a wide range of opportunities for studying a diversity of biological systems from ecological and evolutionary perspectives, and our core group of enthusiastic faculty, graduate students and post-docs provide an exciting environment in which to pursue a Ph.D. Generous financial support is provided in the form of Dartmouth Fellowships, health care, and a substantial yearly discretionary fund for research and travel that are guaranteed for 5 years. Applicants with excellent records and who demonstrate financial need are also eligible for a U.S. Department of Education Graduate Assistance in Areas of National Need (GAANN) Fellowship. Detailed information about the program, and access to online applications, are available at http://www.dartmouth.edu/~biology/graduate/eeb/. Students interested in alpine or polar ecosystems may also apply to the NSF IGERT training grant program on polar environmental change and its human dimensions. Applications will be considered beginning on December 1st. Promising applicants will be invited and hosted for interviews in January. Posted: 10/19/09.

Dartmouth College: I have a fellowship available to begin between January and September 2010 in the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Program of the Department of Biological Sciences. The successful candidate will be a co-investigator in the research project "Towards understanding subcontinental variation in forest pestilence from the southern pine beetle" while developing and conducting their own research program to match their interests. The EEB Graduate Program at Dartmouth College is top tier in terms of intellectual environment, resources for graduate students, and success of alumni. Applications can be accepted at any time. Highly qualified candidates may be eligible for a GAANN Fellowship with a stipend of up to $30k. Please contact me for additional information: Matt Ayres (matthew.p.ayres@dartmouth.edu). Posted: 8/11/09.

East Carolina University: The Department of Biology invites inquiries and applications from prospective graduate students for Fall 2010. We have an active and well-supported group of faculty in Ecology and Evolution and will guarantee accepted PhD students (in IDPBS, the Interdisciplinary Doctoral Program in Biological Sciences) at least two years of support with no teaching obligations and at least five years of support total, at a very competitive level. We also offer two MS programs (TA-ships readily available) and have students in ECU's Coastal Resources Management PhD program. Graduate students will be encouraged to participate in the newly formed North Carolina Center for Biodiversity (NCCB) at ECU. Goals of the NCCB include training graduate students in biodiversity research and providing them opportunities to participate in related outreach. Situated in the attractive and affordable community of Greenville, we are in easy reach of North Carolina's Research Triangle (including the National Evolutionary Synthesis Center), several marine institutes and laboratories, and the diverse natural communities of the Coastal Plain and Outer Banks. Thus excellent opportunities exist for collaboration and to work in terrestrial, aquatic, wetland and marine systems. A readily available 454 sequencer at ECU's Brody School of Medicine facilitates genomic research. Travel is convenient through either Pitt-Greenville or Raleigh-Durham International Airport and our faculty members are engaged in research on every continent but Antarctica. Information on our graduate programs. Please contact prospective mentors directly for more information, or graduate studies director Terry West: westt@ecu.edu Posted: 9/22/09.

Eastern Michigan University: M.S. position in Ecosystem Responses to Phragmites removal in Great Lakes coastal wetlands. A Graduate Research Assistantship is available in the Biology Department to participate in research on effects of invasion and removal of Phragmites australis on ecosystem function (anticipated start date Aug-Sept 2009). The work will be part of a larger study aimed at developing a coupled remote sensing and biological monitoring program to assess impacts of invasive species throughout the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge (DRIWR). We are seeking a masters student to assist with one component of the project in which sites will be monitored before and after Phragmites removal to assess impacts on a number of ecosystem services including on carbon and nutrient cycling, water quality, and plant biodiversity. Field work will be conducted throughout the year at sites within the DRIWR, and will involve collaborative work with GIS specialists and managers of the Refuge. The ideal applicant will have an undergraduate degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, or chemistry, and experience conducting field work. For additional information about this opportunity and the application process, contact Dr. Kristi Judd (kjudd2@emich.edu). Posted: 6/9/09.

Florida International University: The Feeley lab based at FIU and the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden (Miami FL USA) has multiple openings for Masters and PhD students in the general areas of Tropical Community Ecology and/or Global Change Ecology to start Fall 2010. Research in the Feeley lab is currently focused on 1) understanding the effects of global change on the structure, composition, and dynamics of tropical forests using combinations of inventory plot data and natural history collections and 2) investigating the consequences of tropical forest fragmentation on plant and animal communities especially as mediated through trophic interactions. Field research is currently being conducted in the montane and lowland forest of Peru (Manu National Park) and in Lago Guri, Venezuela. Graduate students will be encouraged to conduct research within the context of existing projects but are also free to develop their own projects at sites of their choosing based on personal interests and experiences. Students will be funded through a combination of TAships, RAships and competitive fellowships. Florida International has a strong graduate program in tropical plant ecology especially with the support of the Center for Tropical Plant Conservation at the Fairchild Garden. Interested applicants should contact Dr. Kenneth Feeley no later than December 1st 2009 (kjfeeley@gmail.com). Please include a brief cover letter describing background and interests and a CV. Posted: 10/29/09.

Florida International University: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s Center for Tropical Plant Conservation and FIU seek a graduate research assistant to study the invasive ecology of the exotic grass Melinis repens in pine rockland and scrub plant communities of Miami-Dade County. This 2-year position will require the development of Best Management Practices for the funding agency in addition to a peer-reviewed publication about the research. Skills needed: Coursework and interest in plant ecology, conservation biology, botany, agronomy, forestry, horticulture or plant sciences; ability to perform demanding outdoor physical labor in hot and humid conditions, lift and carry 30 lbs, and hike in uneven terrain for 2 miles; proficiency in MS Word, Excel and/or Access; willingness to learn new protocols and programs; excellent written and oral communication; ability to work cooperatively with FTBG and FIU colleagues and independently; and willingness to complete other duties as assigned. Application for this position must coincide with application to FIU. Send letter of interest, resume, and two letters of recommendation to: Hong Liu, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, Center for Tropical Plant Conservation, 11935 Old Cutler Rd., Miami, FL 33156-4242 or hliu@fiu.edu. Position provides half-time salary of $15k for 2 years and modest funding for travel and supplies. Closing date: September 1, 2009. Deadline to apply for FIU spring 2010 semester: October 1, 2009. Posted: 5/7/09.

Fort Hays State University: We have a position available in the Department of Biological Sciences for a MS student to study plant physiological ecology of drought stress. The project will include studies of the responses of natural prairie ecosystems to variation in precipitation using the ecologically dominant prairie grass big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii) as a model. The work will be part of a project funded by the USDA Plant Biology Abiotic Stress program. The project will include common garden reciprocal transplant experiments and phenotypic characterization to test for the adaptive differentiation of natural populations of big bluestem across the precipitation gradient from southern Illinois to Colby, Kansas. Relevant measurements will include tiller density and height, flowering time/success, leaf mass area, gas exchange, chlorophyll fluorescence, and plant and soil water potential. There is also opportunity for the student to develop other measurements and hypotheses within the field treatments, including comparisons with closely-related sand bluestem (Andropogon hallii). This student will also interface with others in the collaborative project that are investigating the functional genetic variation and expression in big bluestem ecotypes and identifying genes that are responsive to drought. There will also be opportunities to interact with other researchers in the context of the Kansas State University Ecological Genomics Institute. The student will be co-advised by Brian Maricle (brmaricle@fhsu.edu) Biology, FHSU, Hays, KS and Keith Harmoney at the KSU Agricultural Research Center, Hays, KS (kharmone@ksu.edu) and will work as part of a larger collaborative team with Loretta Johnson (KSU), Ted Morgan (KSU), Sara Baer (Southern Illinois University), Karen Garrett, and Eduard Ahkunov (KSU; eakhunov@ksu.edu). Applicants should have a demonstrated interest in plant physiological ecology and/or ecological genomics. Preference will be given to students who have experience or demonstrated potential in these areas. Review of applicants will begin in October 2009, and will continue until the successful applicant is identified. Applications should include a cover letter with a statement of research interests and timing of availability, a CV, and names and contact information for three professional references. Please send your application through e-mail to brmaricle@fhsu.edu. To ensure that your application is received, please include the following in the subject of your e-mail: ‘Application for Ecotype Assistantship’. Acceptance into this assistantship is also contingent on acceptance into the Fort Hays State University Graduate School. This entails a separate application. The starting date can be January or May 2010. Applicants will need to be able to begin on the project by May 2010. Posted: 9/23/09.

Georgetown University: The Department of Biology has multiple PhD positions available for doctoral study in ecology, evolution and behavior (EEB). The faculty and graduate program in Biology at Georgetown help doctoral candidates develop into insightful researchers and effective teachers and communicators. Funding for graduate study is supported by a combination of assistantships, teaching fellowships and research grant support. Our program and institution welcomes students of all racial, ethnic and religious backgrounds. Students interested in any of the opportunities listed below are strongly encouraged to contact the relevant faculty member(s) via email. See: Department of Biology graduate program and graduate school application procedures and deadlines for more information. Faculty seeking students: Community Ecology and Landscape Genetics -Dr. Gina Wimp, Mechanisms of phenotypic evolution - Dr. Peter Armbruster, Mathematical Population Biology - Dr. Matthew B. Hamilton (Biology) and Dr. Sivan Leviyang (Mathematics), Empirical population genetics and molecular evolution -Dr. Matthew B. Hamilton, Ecological interactions, behavior & learning - Dr. Martha Weiss, Arthropod biodiversity and conservation - Professor Edward M. Barrows (barrowse@georgetown.edu), Behavioral ecology, development, reproduction & life history of Bottlenose Dolphins - Professor Janet Mann. Posted: 11/5/09.

Hofstra University: M.S. student wanted to model the effects of climate change and urbanization on the major ecosystems of Long Island, NY starting in Fall 2009 or spring 2010. The objective of this project is to model the predicted changes in the distributions of the major plant species that structure the most important ecosystems of Long Island at chosen future time slices. The models will include consideration of sea level rise and increasing urbanization. The student will use existing data sets and GIS data and work with The Nature Conservancy, Natural Area Inventory, and Dr. Luca Luiselli, an ecological modeler (F.I.Z.V. (Ecology) and Centre of Environmental Studies, Rome). The position comes with full tuition remission, but does not include salary or housing. There may be opportunities for teaching positions and other employment. The project may involve field work but will mostly require a detailed evaluation of previously collected data. The candidate will be part of a research group composed of professors and students in the Hofstra University Center for Climate Study (HUCCS), spearheaded by Dr. E. Christa Farmer (Geology). One branch of the research, headed by Dr. David Weissman (Physics), will study the effect of rain on the CO2 absorption in the ocean using space-based microwave radar. The research project advertised here is headed by Dr. Russell Burke (Biology). The third branch of HUCCS research will investigate paleotempestology, or the study of prehistoric hurricanes from the geologic record, and will be spearheaded by Dr. Farmer. The results from these studies will be disseminated to the scientific community through publications and presentations at scientific meetings, and to the public through a museum exhibit. Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in biological sciences, with experience in both plant ecology and GIS. A strong interest in conservation, quantitative ecology, and statistics. The successful applicant must be accepted as a graduate student in the Department of Biology, a small but intensive graduate program with new undergraduate and graduate degree programs in Urban Ecology. To apply: Send a short letter of introduction, a CV, unofficial copies of academic transcripts, and the name and e-mail address of 3 references to Dr. Russell Burke at biorlb@hofstra.edu. Posted: 6/17/09.

Kansas State University: PhD Assistantship Available: Ecological Genomics of Drought Stress in Prairie Grasses. We have a position available for a PhD student to study the ecological genomics of drought stress. The project will include studies of the responses of native prairie grasses to variation in precipitation using the ecologically dominant prairie grass big bluestem as a model. The work is part of a project funded by the USDA Plant Biology Abiotic Stress program. The project will include common garden transplant experiments and genomic approaches to test for the signature of adaptive genetic differentiation among natural populations of big bluestem across the precipitation gradient of the Great Plains. This collaborative research group assembles investigators with complementary expertise in Plant Ecological Genomics (Johnson, Garrett), Genomics (Ahkunov), Evolutionary Genetics (Morgan) and Restoration Ecology (Baer, SIU) to elucidate the response and adaptation of prairie grasses to abiotic stresses. This work will take place in the laboratories of Drs. Johnson, Akhunov, and Garrett, with close collaboration with Drs. Morgan and Baer. There will also be opportunities to interact with other researchers in the context of the Ecological Genomics Institute. Applicants should have a demonstrated interest in ecological or evolutionary genomics. Preference will be given to individuals with experience in modern molecular approaches and genomics tools. Review of applicants will begin Dec.15, and continue until the successful applicant is identified. The starting date is summer 2010. The position offers competitive salary of $25k and benefits. Applications should include a cover letter with a statement of research interests and timing of availability, a CV, and names and contact information for three professional references. Please send your application through e-mail to Loretta Johnson (Johnson@ksu.edu). To ensure that your application is received, please include the following in the subject of your e-mail: ‘Application for Ecological Genomics Assistantship’. Posted: 10/21/09.

Kansas State University: The Division of Biology has been awarded new funding from the US Department of Education GAANN program to support up to seven Graduate Fellows for PhD research in the areas of Ecology, Evolution and Genomics (EEG). The Graduate Assistance in Areas of National Need (GAANN) program provides fellowships to assist graduate students with excellent academic records who can demonstrate financial need. EEG GAANN Fellowships include tuition and a stipend of up to $30k per year (based on financial need). The Ecology, Evolution and Genomics GAANN draws on the strengths of our Ecological Genomics Institute, expertise in Grassland Ecology, and Konza Prairie Long Term Ecological Research (LTER) program. Areas of study open to Graduate Fellows include: -Molecular and Physiological Basis of Organismal Adaptation, -Genetic Architecture of Speciation, -Population Structure of Grassland Species, -Conservation Genetics, -Ecological Genomics, -Metagenomics, -Community Ecology, -Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecosystem Ecology. GAANN awards are made to programs and institutions to sustain and enhance the capacity for teaching and research in areas of national need. The interdisciplinary GAANN program in Biology at Kansas State University will address the critical need to train biologists to be effective teachers and skilled researchers in diverse professional and cultural contexts. One outcome of the GAANN program will be to train graduate students who are capable of addressing important conceptual and practical issues in interdisciplinary research in the biological sciences. The application deadline for admission in Fall 2010 is December 15, 2009. Applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of the United Statesor its territories. Individuals from groups underrepresented in science are particularly encouraged to apply! For application instructions and additional information, visit the EEG website. Posted: 9/15/09.

Kent State University: Funding is available for one graduate student position (preferably a PhD student) at Kent State University, Ohio. The project involves testing ecological theory in fungal communities in northwestern lower Michigan forests. Studies will be based on molecular community analysis of fungal decomposers in field surveys and experiments. The individual will be expected to travel to field sites several times per year, and work successfully with undergraduates. Experience with PCR, microbiological methods, or multivariate or spatial statistics would be beneficial. Applications can be made to begin in Fall (8/2009) or Winter/Spring (1/2010) semester. Stipends include 12-mo salary, tuition, and benefits. To make a preliminary application, please send statement of interest, list of references, and a CV, including GPA and GRE scores, to Chris Blackwood (cblackwo@kent.edu). General information is also available at: Department of Biological Sciences. Posted: 6/26/09.

Lehigh University: Peatland ecology/paleoecology. The Earth & Environmental Science Department has an opening for a graduate student (MS or PhD) as part of a newly NSF-funded project aimed at better understanding processes of peatland initiation and expansion in south-central Alaska. The project will characterize modern and historical rates and processes associated with peatland lateral expansion, placing recent changes in the context of regional hydrology and long-term developmental history. Full funding (tuition and stipend) is available through a research assistantship. Specific dissertation/thesis topic is flexible as long it fits within the context of the overall project. Preference will be given to candidates who can begin in Fall 2009 or Spring 2010. For more information, please contact Bob Booth (rkb205@lehigh.edu) and Zicheng Yu (ziy2@lehigh.edu). Posted: 6/9/09.

Louisiana State University: I am currently recruiting PhD students for my lab in the Department of Biological Sciences starting Fall 2010. My research focuses on examining how disease outbreaks, community structure, and stochasticity influence population dynamics by combining experimental and theoretical modeling. I'm interested in: 1) virus transmission and insect outbreaks; 2) plant population demography; and, 3) population viability and rare species management. In particular, I take a quantitative approach to ecological questions and would require that my students have a strong interest or training in quantitative ecology. While students may work on projects closely affiliated with my research, I also encourage them to seek out their own research identity. Students may be eligible for either a teaching or research fellowship which includes a stipend and a tuition waiver. If you're interested in applying, please email me a copy of your CV and a letter of interest in a single PDF file to Dr. Bret Elderd (elderd "at" lsu.edu). Posted: 9/18/09.

Louisiana State University: A Gilbert Foundation Fellowship is being offered by LSU's School of Renewable Natural Resources for a student to pursue a Ph.D. in forestry for an in depth analysis of the hydraulic and mechanical relationship between foliage and sapwood in loblolly pine. A Gilbert Fellowship for a Ph.D. starts at $22k with increases as degree requirements are completed. Included in the fellowship is a complete tuition waiver and monetary support for research. Applicants must meet eligibility requirements for the Fellowship: 3.6 graduate GPA and 1200 GRE (V + Q with each section above 500). GRE scores are evaluated in combination with GPA, letters of reference, and other evidence of the applicant's potential success in pursuing a graduate degree. The assistantship is available at the beginning of the Fall 2009 or the Spring 2010 semesters. For more information contact Thomas J. Dean, Professor, School of Renewable Natural Resources, LSU A&M and Agricultural Center, Baton Rouge, LA ; email fwdean at lsu.edu; phone (225) 578-4216. Posted: 8/11/09.

Louisiana State University: Coastal Science Assistantship. A graduate research assistantship position at Master's level is available starting Fall 2009 in the School of Renewable Natural Resources. The position is supported through a new assistantship program called the Coastal Science Assistantship Program by the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources (LDNR) Office of Coastal Restoration and Management (OCRM) Coastal Restoration Division (CRD). The position includes a tuition waiver and health benefits, and a competitive stipend ($25k/year) for up to 3 years. The graduate student will conduct a research on sediment transport in the Atchafalaya River. The student graduating from this program is expected to become a well trained professional in coastal restoration science. In addition to the research and academic programs, the graduate student will be required to complete 240 hours of internship with LDNR-CRD at mutually convenient times during his/her pursuit of a masters degree. To expose the student to the Departments various functions and activities, internships will involve work either at the LDNR headquarters in Baton Rouge or at one of the CRD field offices in New Orleans, Lafayette, and Thibodeaux. Applicants should have a BS in hydrology, water resources, soil science, or a related field. To be competitive applicants must have an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 overall and 3.25 for last two years, and a GRE score of 1,200 (verbal/quantitative each above 500). Experience in modeling and GIS/Remote Sensing are desirable. If interested, email your curriculum vitae, college transcripts, GRE scores, and the names and contact information of three referees to: Dr. Jun Xu, School of Renewable Natural Resources, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803. Email: yjxu@lsu.edu. Posted: 7/2/09.

Memorial University: MSc/PhD Position in Biology: The search for thresholds in aquatic connectivity indices. Impacts of aquatic fragmentation are widespread in Canada’s National Parks and their greater ecosystems. Fragmentation is particularly evident in Central and Atlantic Canada where a long settlement history and the consequent impacts of sustained use are evident in the high density of river crossings and in sluice dams associated with past forestry operations. Fragmentation associated with dams and culverts is a pervasive stressor that in many of our National Parks has resulted in the extirpation of species from their historical range. Several Species at Risk and/or culturally important species such as Atlantic salmon and American eel have been impacted, since they require migrations from freshwater to ocean environments and back. This project will contribute to the establishment of biologically meaningful thresholds for the aquatic connectivity index used in Parks Canada’s ecological monitoring programs. These thresholds will allow assessments of landscape scale aquatic connectivity to be more easily interpretable by resource managers. The project will build on recent research (Coté et al. 2009. Landscape Ecology 24(1):101-113) and will make use of existing databases of fish census information, together with stream and barrier locations for watersheds in a variety of locations (Ontario, New York, Maine). The bulk of the work would thus involve reviewing and checking existing data and statistical analysis. The project could be the focus of either an M.Sc or PhD. Desired qualifications: For MSc: B.Sc. (Honours) in Biology with “A” standing and a focus on community and/or landscape ecology. Experience in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and a strong interest in statistics is essential. A background in fish biology/ecology would be an asset. For PhD: MSc in ecology/biology with a strong background in statistical modelling, GIS, particularly GIS programming. Supervision: This project would be co-supervised by Dr. Yolanda Wiersma (Department of Biology) and Dr. Dave Coté (Parks Canada, Terra Nova National Park). The student would work out of Dr. Wiersma’s LESA Lab, but be in close contact with Dr. Coté and partners at Parks Canada and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans. Stipend: $16.5k/year (MSc), $18k/year (PhD), guaranteed for the first year and highly likely for 2 years for MSc and 4 for PhD. Funding for future years is contingent on student success. Interested applicants should send a brief cover letter and CV to: Dr. Wiersma (ywiersma@mun.ca) and Dr. Coté (David.Cote@pc.gc.ca). Posted: 9/29/09.

Michigan State University et al.: Graduate Research Assistantships (M.S. and Ph.D.) are available as part of a new 4-year NSF-funded research program on the ecology of Lyme disease in the eastern United States beginning in summer or fall 2010. The successful applicants will play key roles in the newly funded NSF Ecology of Infectious Disease program: Testing alternative hypotheses for gradients in Lyme disease in the eastern U.S.: climate, host community and vector genetic structure. This $2.5 million program is a collaborative effort led by Michigan State University and involving The University of Tennessee, The University of Montreal, Hofstra University, Georgia Southern University, the University of Rhode Island and the USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center. Graduate students will help develop and participate in an extensive field and laboratory sampling program designed to test hypotheses about the ecological reasons for current distributional patterns of Lyme disease. The program aims to understand the ecological drivers for the geographic variation in Lyme disease risk in eastern North America. For more information about the project and available assistantships, see: http://wildlifehealth.tennessee.edu/lyme_gradient/. Posted: 10/1/09.

Michigan State University: Graduate assistantship is available to a highly motivated student to work on a NSF or USDA funded project. Projects focus on method development for spatiotemporal analysis of large ecological inventory databases. Candidates must have a desire to pursue an emphasis in environmental data modeling, statistical computing, and demonstrate competency in computer programming (e.g., R, C/C++, or Fortran). Compensation package includes: -RA funding available for 2 years, starting Fall 2009 semester -Enrollment through the Department of Forestry or Geography -Possible specialization in Statistics and Probability. If you are interested please provide: -Statement of interest and career goals -GRE scores -Undergraduate and graduate transcripts -Curriculum vita. Andrew Finley, Natural Resources Building, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824-1222. Email: finleya@msu.edu, Phone: 517-432-7219. Posted: 6/3/09.

Michigan Technological University: An M.Sc. position is available for a study of quantitative silviculture of northern hardwood forests in relation to sustainability and rate of production in support of emerging forest industries. The project is funded under Michigan’s first Center of Energy Excellence in a partnership with Frontier Renewable Resources LLC. Frontier is building the first commercial-scale lignocellulosic bioethanol facility in the United States at Kinross, in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. A background in forestry, ecosystem science, or natural resources in forested ecosystems is required, as well as interest in application of quantitative methods in scientific investigations. Proficiency in spoken and written English is an absolute necessity. The assistantship comes with a competitive stipend and covers the cost of tuition and fees. Michigan Tech is one of the Nation’s premier Forestry and Environmental Science Universities. The School of Forest Resources and Environmental Science has been ranked fourth in the nation for scholarly productivity among forestry schools. The university is located in the Houghton, Michigan near the shores of Lake Superior, and offers superb outdoor recreation opportunities in a modern, safe small city community. The start date is fall semester 2009. Interested persons should send a short cover letter, GRE scores, one-page statement of professional interests, curriculum vitae including names and contact information for two references, and any other relevant materials to Dr. Froese by email at froese@mtu.edu. Review of applications will begin on July 31, 2009. Posted: 6/30/09.

Michigan Technological University: A Ph.D. assistantship is available to study core questions necessary for ecological and environmental sustainability of biomass for biofuels and bioenergy in northern mixed forest/agriculture landscapes. The student may be involved in ongoing research efforts including biomass inventory and availability, GIS and Remote Sensing models of biomass, energy crop cultivation, ecosystem carbon/nutrient cycles and inventory in native and cultivated forests and production systems using switchgrass. A background in forestry, ecosystem science, soils or agrology is required, as well as interest in application of statistical or quantitative methods. Experience with GIS and remote-sensing techniques is ideal but strong interest will suffice. Proficiency in spoken and written English is an absolute necessity. The assistantship comes with a competitive stipend and covers the cost of tuition and fees. Supplementary support including discretionary travel funds is anticipated for very strong candidates. MTU is one of the Nation's premier Universities and the School of Forest Resources and Environmental Science has been ranked fourth in the nation for productivity among forestry schools, and first in North America based on citations. MTU is located in Houghton, Michigan on Lake Superior, and offers superb outdoor recreation opportunities in a modern, safe small city community. Start date is fall semester 2009. Send a short cover letter, GRE scores, one-page statement of professional interests, curriculum vitae including names and contact information for two references, and any other relevant materials to Dr. Robert Froese by email at froese@mtu.edu. Review of applications will begin July 31, 2009. Posted: 6/4/09.

Mississippi State University: Ph.D. Assistantship: Effects of biomass production on wildlife and plant communities in intensively managed pine forests of east-central Mississippi. Responsibilities: Evaluate habitat and wildlife response (primarily birds) to switchgrass production and biomass removal in intensively managed pine forests. Student will be responsible for conducting field work (bird counts, nest searches, sampling other vertebrates, and vegetation sampling), supervising field technicians, assisting with supervision of a M.S. student, analyzing data, and preparing technical reports and peer-reviewed publications. Transportation and housing in the field will be provided. There is also potential to serve as teaching assistant for ornithology courses. Qualifications: M.S. in wildlife ecology, wildlife management, or related field. Applicant must be willing to work under a wide range of inclement conditions (cold and hot) in the presence of biting insects and poisonous snakes, sometimes for 24-hour periods. Experience with birds is strongly desired. Experience with other vertebrate communities and working in southern pine forests is also desired. Student must be willing to work cooperatively with other students on related projects. Starting Date: August 15, 2009 – 1 May 2010 (flexible and negotiable). Stipend: Starting $21k per annum plus complete waiver of tuition fees. Inquiries: Inquiry emails are welcomed and should be directed to Dr. Sam Riffell (Co-Project Leader) at sriffell@cfr.msstate.edu. Application: Submit: 1) transcript(s) and GRE scores (unofficial copies fine initially), 2) vita, 3) contact information for 3 references, and 4) letter of application which (a) describes your interest in the position, (b) describes your career goals, and (c) details your work or educational experience that is most relevant to this position. To: Dr. Sam Riffell, Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Box 9690, Mississippi State, MS 39762-9690 USA. Posted: 8/21/09.

Mississippi State University: Ph.D. Research Assistantship: Native Warm-Season Grass Pastures for Livestock, Wildlife & Ecosystem Services. This is a multi-disciplinary project to evaluate native warm season grasses as both forage and wildlife habitat in the Southeast. Collaborators include faculty from Wildlife and Fisheries, Plant and Soil Sciences, and Animal Science. Successful applicant will have the opportunity to collaborate on studies involving pollinators, predators, forage quality, animal health, plant diversity, carbon sequestration and biofuel potential. Responsibilities: Evaluate breeding bird response to grazing treatments on experimental pastures in the Black Prairie region of northeast Mississippi. Student will be responsible for conducting field work (bird counts, nest searches, sampling other vertebrates, and vegetation sampling), supervising field technicians, assisting with various master’s student projects, analyzing data, and preparing technical reports and peer-reviewed publications. There is also potential to serve as teaching assistant for ornithology courses. Qualifications: Passion for integrating wildlife objectives into productive agricultural systems. M.S. in biology, wildlife ecology, wildlife management, or related field. Experience with birds is strongly desired, especially counting and nest monitoring techniques. Student must be able to work as part of an integrated team and be willing to work cooperatively with other students on related projects. Starting Date: August 2010 or January 2011. Stipend: Starting $21k per annum plus complete waiver of tuition fees. Inquiry emails are welcomed and should be directed to Dr. Sam Riffell (Co-Project Leader, sriffell@cfr.msstate.edu) or Dr. Wes Burger (Co-Project Leader, wburger@cfr.msstate.edu). Application: Submit: 1) transcript(s) and GRE scores (unofficial copies fine initially), 2) vita, 3) contact information for 3 references, and 4) letter of application which (a) describes your interest in the position, (b) describes your career goals, and (c) details your work or educational experience that is most relevant to this position. To: Dr. Sam Riffell, Department of Wildlife & Fisheries, Box 9690, Mississippi State, MS 39762. Posted: 8/21/09.

Mississippi State University: We are looking for highly motivated students seeking an MS or PhD to begin in either the Fall of 2009 or the Spring of 2010. This student will work on the ecology of the invasive South American cactus moth (Cactoblastis cactorum). This species is well-known as one of the most successful biocontrol agents as a result of its introduction into Australia in the 1920’s. It has since invaded the United States and threatens to spread into northern Mexico where hosts of the moth are cultivated. The student will explore the role of host quality in determining the rates and routes of invasion in North America. The position will be co-advised by Dr. Christopher Brooks and Dr. Gary Ervin in the Department of Biological Sciences. Interested students should send a letter of interest to cpbrooks@biology.msstate.edu and gervin@biology.msstate.edu. Preference will be given to students who have demonstrated experience in plant, parasite or insect ecology, analysis of ecological data, and/or spatial data analysis. Completion of a M.S. degree is not a requisite for this position, but it is expected that the successful applicant will have demonstrated at least a basic level of field research experience. Include in the e-mail a short description of your interests along with a CV. Posted: 6/26/09.

Montana State University: The Watershed Hydrology Lab at Montana State University (Brian McGlynn) and Appalachian State University (Ryan Emanuel) seek a PhD student for a NSF project focused on the intersection of vegetation organization and watershed topology: ecohydrologic imprints in runoff generation and stream discharge in the mountains of MT and NC. We seek a quantitative hydrologist/ecologist with interests and abilities in BOTH experimental field research AND programming / model development related to watershed scale ecohydrology. Competitive funding is available for a student primarily based in Montana with extended visits to North Carolina. The preferred starting date is January 2010. Contact Brian McGlynn (bmcglynn@montana.edu) and see our lab websites: http://watershed.montana.edu/hydrology and http://www.appstate.edu/~emanuelre/, for more information. Posted: 8/24/09.

Montana State University: Ph.D. Research Assistantship in the Department of Ecology. We are seeking a highly motivated graduate student at the PhD level to join a collaborative project investigating the role of biodiversity in infectious disease risk. We are using salmonid whirling disease (parasite: /Myxobolus cerebralis/, alternative host: /Tubifex tubifex/) of western streams as the model system. This interdisciplinary project involves collaboration with engineering and molecular population genetics faculty at the University of Vermont. The MSU student will be most directly involved in both field surveys and laboratory experiments relating the tubificid community to disease risk in salmonids. Applicants should have a BS or MS degree in ecology, zoology, biology or a related field. Strong quantitative and writing skills required. Prior experience with field methods used in stream ecology and benthic macroinvertebrate collection and identification and/or disease ecology preferred. Position available starting mid August 2009 with enrollment commencing Fall semester 2009 or Spring semester 2010. Submit cover letter, resume, copies of transcripts and GRE scores, and names and telephone numbers of 3 references to Dr. Billie L. Kerans (bkerans@montana.edu), Department of Ecology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717 by either email or regular mail. Salary: Stipend of $18k per year with substantial tuition waiver. Last date to apply: August 1, 2009. Phone: 406 994-3725. Posted: 6/4/09.

Murray State University: M.S. graduate assistantship is available for a biomonitoring project of streams and wetlands in the department of Biological Sciences. The research project will develop novel methods of biomonitoring using in-situ sounds and supercomputers. Research will be conducted primarily at the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area (LBL). In addition, the research involves a unique opportunity to work with the US Forest Service during the summer seasons and requires the successful applicant to be outgoing, enthusiastic about informal science education, and be motivated to work with the environmental education center at LBL. In addition to a summer stipend, free housing will be available at LBL in the summer and at Hancock Biological field station during the academic year. Qualifications: Applicants should be interested in freshwater ecology, conservation, biomonitoring, education and should be able to work independently in the lab and field. Experience with field sampling in remote locations, statistics and an undergraduate degree in ecology, zoology, or closely related field is a plus. Review of applications will begin immediately. The position will start in the fall of 2009 or spring of 2010 depending upon applicant preference. Please submit a letter stating your research interests and career goals, resume, transcripts (unofficial acceptable) and GRE scores (unofficial acceptable) and the names of three references. Contact: For more information or questions about the research contact Everett Weber (Everett.weber(at)murraystate.edu) (270-970-6054) or Michael Flinn (Michael.flinn(at)murraystate.edu) (270-970-6051). Applications should be sent to the address below or emailed. Mail to: Biomonitoring Project Search, Everett Weber, Department of Biology, Murray State University, Murray, KY 42071. Email applications to Everett.weber(at)murraystate.edu. Posted: 6/10/09.

North Carolina State University: The Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources seeks a highly qualified graduate student for work serving as a foundation for urban long-term research in the "Triangle" region of North Carolina. Research will be conducted in the context of a larger effort to influence the policies that allow for the sustainable and equitable provisioning of ecosystem services. Urban research in the Triangle involves scientists from NC State University, UNC-Chapel Hill, and Duke University. It will provide rich opportunities for interaction among scientists and students from other urban research sites around the nation. Graduate research at either MS or PhD level will focus on demographic comparisons of populations both consuming and producing ecosystem services provided by Jordan Lake in the Triangle. Support includes stipend, tuition and fees, and health insurance for at least two years. Preferred start date: January 2010. Applicants should: •Have a strong academic background that will support socio-ecological research; •Possess strong quantitative skills; •Have excellent scores in all three components of the GRE (verbal, quantitative, critical thinking/analytic writing) and a high undergraduate/graduate GPA; •Be citizens or permanent residents of the U.S. Prospective applicants should: First, address a letter of interest to Dr. Melissa McHale at melissa_mchale@ncsu.edu, ASAP. Second, potential candidates should also prepare to submit an application (including personal statement, CV, three letters of recommendation, transcripts, GRE scores) through the NCSU Graduate School on-line application process. Posted: 10/20/09.

North Carolina State University: PhD Student in Biogeography, Societies, Climate Change, or Species Interactions. Positions are available in the laboratory of Rob Dunn at North Carolina State University, with funding through a mix of research assistantships and TAs to work on any of a wide range of topics. Student should be curious, driven and excited enough about science that it is what they might choose to do were they to win the lottery. Opportunities exist to work on societies (be they insect or otherwise), climate change, biogeography, or some combination thereof. Within this context, students interested in the biology of parasites, infectious diseases, mutualists (be they butterflies, plants, microbes or anything else) or commensals of social insects and other societies are particularly encouraged to apply. Research projects that span more than one lab within our conservation ecology lab group, social insect group or with existing collaborators associated with global projects on ants are also encouraged. Students who are interested in applying to the lab should send a CV, a list of reference writers, and a writing sample to Rob_Dunn “at” ncsu.edu. The CV should include information about existing skill sets such as languages spoken, molecular techniques, natural history knowledge, databasing abilities, GIS, or taxonomic knowledge. If you can identify, for example, every ant, fungus, springtail, carnivore tick, or mammal species in New Mexico, Alberta or anywhere else, let me know. Current student projects in the lab include work on the biogeography of carnivores and their parasites, the behavior of male ants, the consequences of the cryptic invasion of a termite specialist ant, and modeling of the interactions between seed dispersers and seeds. Lab projects include global analysis of the biogeography of ants, modeling consequences of climate change for insects, pests and diseases, and an effort to work with NASA to highlight areas where discovery of new species is most likely. Inquires from individuals of diverse backgrounds and underrepresented groups are particularly encouraged. Posted: 10/14/09.

North Carolina State University: The Langerhans Lab in the Department of Biology is looking for exceptional and enthusiastic Ph.D. students in Evolutionary Ecology, and anticipates accepting approximately two new students starting fall 2010. While the lab primarily accepts Ph.D. students, exceptional students wishing to pursue a M.S. will also be considered. Additional information. Research in the Langerhans Lab investigates a wide range of questions in evolutionary ecology, with empirical work focusing on aquatic systems (e.g., fishes, amphibians) and lizards. Due to this breadth of interests, graduate students can pursue a variety of research trajectories. Examples of ongoing research interests in the lab include: evolutionary consequences of anthropogenic impacts, ecological speciation, morphological and locomotor evolution, predictability of phenotypic evolution, functional morphology of locomotion, predator-prey coevolution, genital evolution in livebearing fishes, phylogeography, phenotypic plasticity, adaptive constraints of gene flow, sensory bias, evolution of sexual dimorphism, and links between locomotor, feeding, and life history evolution. If you are interested in joining the lab, please contact Dr. Brian Langerhans (langerhans-at-ncsu.edu) and provide a short description of your research interests and accomplishments, CV (including GPA and GRE scores), and contact information for three references. For those subsequently encouraged to apply, information on the application process can be found here. Posted: 10/13/09.

North Carolina State University: PhD Student Research Opportunity in Entomology. The Cardoza lab is looking for an outstanding, enthusiastic, self-motivated graduate student with interest in the behavior, biology or chemical ecology of soil arthropods. Research in our lab employs a multidisciplinary approach to elucidating the mechanisms driving insect pest interactions with their environment, particularly in agricultural systems. The selected student will explore the effects of interactions between plants and beneficial soil microbes and their consequences on preference and performance by root feeding arthropods. Requirements: MS degree in biology, entomology or a related discipline. Candidates are required to formally apply to, and must meet the requirements to be accepted by, the NCSU Graduate School before consideration. Academic requirements are determined by the Department of Entomology. For additional information regarding this opportunity contact: Dr. Yasmin Cardoza, Department of Entomology, North Carolina State University, Campus Box 7613, Raleigh, NC 27695 TEL: (919) 513-1285 FAX: (919) 515-7746, yasmin_cardoza@ncsu.edu. Yearly Salary: $19k plus tuition and health insurance. Position Available: August, 2009/Spring, 2010. Posted: 6/3/09.

Northwestern University/Chicago Botanic Garden: jointly offer a graduate program in Plant Biology and Conservation and seek excellent applicants for both Master's and Doctoral degrees. The program offers exciting opportunities for graduate student research in plant ecology, restoration ecology, soil ecology, climate change, invasive biology, paleobotany, mycology, population biology, demography, plant-animal interactions, conservation genetics, evolution, and systematics. For more information about the program and faculty research interests visit our website: http://www.plantbiology.northwestern.edu. For more information see Plant Conservation Science Center or contact the director of the Graduate Program in Plant Biology and Conservation: Nyree Zerega (nzerega@chicagobotanic.org). Posted: 11/5/09.

Ohio University: Funding for a PhD RA position is available in the Department of Environmental and Plant Biology. OU is located in Athens, OH, a progressive small city in southeast Ohio surrounded by forests. The NSF funded project involves investigating the influence of soil acidity on the soil microbial community and its ability to cycle P in several eastern Ohio forests. Candidates seeking the position must have a MS before starting the position and should have a background in biogeochemistry, soil/ecosystem ecology, or a related field. A successful candidate should demonstrate a strong work ethic, good communication skills, and the ability to work well with undergraduate and high school students. Experience in extracellular enzyme assays, PLFA analysis, soil chemical analysis, and multivariate statistics would be beneficial. The position can start Winter (1/2010), Spring (3/2010), or Summer (5/2010) quarter. Stipend includes yearly salary ($20k), tuition, and benefits. Applicants should email, as a PDF, a statement of research interests, list of references, and CV, including GPA and GRE scores to: Jared DeForest (deforest@ohio.edu). Email requests for more information on project specifics are welcomed. Posted: 8/10/09.

Oklahoma State University: Research Assistantship in Quantitative Floristics. The Laboratory For Innovative Biodiversity Research And Analysis (LIBRA group) is seeking a PhD student to assist with the FloraS of North America Project as part of an NSF-EPSCoR funded collaborative proposal on Ecological Forecasting. This position is funded for 2.5 years, after which teaching or other assistantships will be available. The student is expected to enroll in the OSU Plant Sciences PhD program, and to develop a dissertation project related to the funded research. A start date of 4 January 2010 is desirable but negotiable. The ideal candidate would have strong scientific writing skills, experience with GIS, and familiarity with North American floristics - although applicants with a subset of such experience will still be considered. The student will be expected to collaborate with a diversity of scholars with expertise in computer science, statistics, geography, botany, ecosystem science, and global change. For full consideration, send a statement of interest, contact information for three references, and a current CV by 13 October 2009 to Michael Palmer at mike.palmer@okstate.edu. Informal inquiries by email are welcome. Michael W. Palmer, Regents Professor, Botany Department, Oklahoma State University, 104 LSE Stillwater OK 74078 USA 405-744-7717. Wildfuels Blog | OSU Ecology. Posted: 9/15/09.

Oklahoma State University: Two graduate research assistantships (one at M.S. level and the other at Ph.D. level) are available to highly motivated students to conduct research in ecohydrology/ecophysiology/watershed management within a USGS/NWRI funded project. This project investigates the ecohydrological processes, alternation of hydrological function and water cycles associated with land cover change (i.e. woody plant encroachment) in a mesic grassland. Experience with sapflow techniques, E/T measurement or watershed modeling is highly desirable but not required. Graduate assistantships are $17,500 for a Ph.D. and $15,500 a M.S. annually. Both in-state and out-of-state tuition are waived and the health insurance of the candidate will be provided. The expected starting date is Spring 2010 but we are evaluating and filling the position now. Please contact: Chris Zou (chris.zou@okstate.edu), Rod Will (rodney.will@okstate.edu) or Don Turton (don.turton@okstate.edu) at Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management at Oklahoma State University for more information. In your initial contact please send a Letter of Intent stating interests and professional goals, a C.V., Unofficial Transcripts, and copies of GRE/TOEFL scores. Posted: 8/20/09.

Oregon State University: I seek two individuals interested in pursuing graduate study in the Department of Forest Ecosystems and Society beginning January 2010. Graduate assistantships are related to a multidisciplinary project focused on evaluating management tradeoffs between wildlife habitat, fuel conditions, economic potential, and natural disturbances. This project is funded by the USDA Forest Service in cooperation with the OSU College of Forestry and the Institute of Natural Resources. Applicants should have a solid background in wildlife ecology, landscape ecology, or a related field, an interest in applied research focused on modeling wildlife-habitat relationships, and the ability to work both independently and as a part of a research team. Students will be expected to present research results at professional conferences, publish research results in peer-reviewed scientific outlets, and pursue extramural funding to supplement their assistantships, as appropriate. For potential MS students, a working knowledge of GIS and simple wildlife habitat models is preferred, but not required. For potential PhD students, a working knowledge of GIS and an interest in pursuing dissertation research focused on evaluating and modeling wildlife-habitat relationships is required. PhD applicants also are expected to have a completed MS degree with thesis, or several years of work experience comparable to a MS degree with thesis. GRE scores must be less than five years old. Potential MS students must have received a GPA equivalent to a 3.0/4.0 on their last 90 term (or 60 semester) hours. I encourage interested students to send 1) a cover letter describing your professional background, relevant research experience and interests, career goals, and reasons for seeking a MS or PhD degree, 2) names and contact information for three references, 3) a current curriculum vitae, and 4) copies of transcripts and GRE scores (unofficial copies are fine for initial contact; official copies will be required for admittance to graduate program) *directly to me (Anita Morzillo; anita.morzillo@oregonstate.edu) as a single *.pdf document.* Please do not submit materials to the OSU Graduate School at this time. I will begin reviewing application materials as soon as I receive them, but materials must be received by me before 20 October 2009. I encourage interested individuals to contact me (Anita T. Morzillo) either by the email or phone (anita.morzillo@oregonstate.edu, 541-737-8433) to learn more about my research program and this particular project prior to sending their application materials. Posted: 9/17/09.

Oregon State University: The Lytle Lab at seeks a highly motivated PhD student to pursue doctoral research as part of a collaborative project that aims to understand how flow intermittence and landscape connectivity govern the population dynamics of aquatic invertebrates and amphibians in southern Arizona streams. The student will use fieldwork (population surveys, habitat measurements) and laboratory methods (mtDNA and microsatellites) to understand how hydrologic connectivity influences the population dynamics of aquatic organisms. The successful applicant will be advised by Dr. Dave Lytle (Department of Zoology, Oregon State University, Corvallis), and will work closely with researchers from University of Washington, State University of New York, and partners in Arizona including AZ Game and Fish Department and The Nature Conservancy. Qualifications: BS or MS in ecology, zoology, or related field with competitive GPA and GRE scores. Priority will be given to applicants with previous experience studying aquatic invertebrates (biology, ecology, and sampling techniques), quantitative skills, and/or a background in molecular methods such as mtDNA or microsatellite analysis. A demonstrated ability to publish in peer-reviewed journals and experience conducting research in arid and semi-arid ecosystems is preferred, but not required. Location: The position will be located within the Department of Zoology, Oregon State University. Zoology houses expertise in ecology, evolution, physiology, and genomics of aquatic and terrestrial organisms. Corvallis is home to a productive community of aquatic biologists, distributed across the OSU campus and at regional research labs for the EPA, USGS, and USFS. OSU maintains the largest insect collection in the Pacific Northwest and is among the top-ranked North American universities for conservation biology and ecology /evolutionary biology. Funding: The position will be funded primarily by graduate research assistantships (GRAs), with the opportunity to hold a teaching assistantship (GTA) during some academic quarters. The Department of Zoology guarantees 5 years of support for PhD students. Start date: Fall 2010 (Summer 2010 preferred). To apply email a cover letter that addresses your interest and experience, curriculum vitae, unofficial transcripts, and contact information for at least three references to: Dr. Dave Lytle, lytleda@oregonstate.edu. Screening of applicants will occur prior to the Zoology application deadline on January 15, 2010. Posted: 9/3/09.

Pennsylvania State University: Graduate Research Assistantship (Ph.D.) in Crop and Soil Sciences, Entomology, or Ecology. Seeking a Ph.D. student to participate in a project on reduced tillage organic cropping systems, Improving Weed and Insect Management in Organic Reduced-Tillage Cropping Systems. Our overall goal is to develop sustainable reduced-tillage organic feed grain production systems that integrate pest (weed and insect) and soil management practices to overcome production constraints associated with high residue, reduced-tillage environments. There will be a soil quality component to the experiments. The project activities will include on-station and on-farm research and extension. In addition to field-based research, there will be opportunities to develop and deliver extension programs on organic agriculture. Available: Summer/Fall, 2010. Qualifications: B.S. or M.S. degree in plant or soil science, entomology, biological sciences, environmental sciences, ecology, or other agriculture-related discipline. Strong written and oral communication skills necessary. Minimum 3.0/4.0 GPA. GRE test scores are required. For additional information contact: Dr. Bill Curran (wcurran@psu.edu, 814-863-1014 or Dr. Mary Barbercheck (meb34@psu.edu, 814-863-2982). Application: Send letter of interest, resume, and transcripts to: Dr. William S. Curran, Professor of Weed Science, 210 ASI, Dept. of Crop and Soil Sciences, University Park, PA 16802. (814)863-7043 (Fax) and Dr. Mary Barbercheck, Professor of Entomology, 501 ASI, Dept. of Entomology, University Park, PA 16802. (814) 865 - 3048 (Fax). Posted: 10/15/09.

Pennsylvania State University: The Penn State Intercollege Graduate Degree program in Ecology is a highly interdisciplinary cross-college program with over 60 faculty studying ecology at molecular to global scales in a wide range of disciplines. The Penn State Campus is nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of central Pennsylvania where it is ideally located for ecological research as well as outdoor recreation. The program has a number of fellowship opportunities for outstanding students in a wide range of fields of Ecology, including agroecology, infectious diseases, root and mycorrhizal ecology, microbial ecology, invasive ecology, paleoecology, climate-change ecology, plant physiological ecology, marine animal behavioral ecology, evolutionary ecology and landscape ecology. Preapplications can be found at the above website. Examples of some of the projects are listed below: Invasive Ecology-Tomas Carlo is seeking a student to study bird-plant interactions in relation to invasive Honeysuckle species in Pennsylvania. The study will examine how native bird populations propagate invasives, and at the same time examine if native birds are developing a dependency on the alien species. The project will also examine what are the community-wide consequences of these interactions. Students with interests in spatial ecology, ornithology, plant community ecology, and conservation would be considered. Agroecology-Mary Barbercheck and Bill Curran. Assistantships (2, PhD) available for research on organic reduced-tillage feed grain production systems that integrate pest and soil management practices to overcome production constraints associated with high residue, reduced-tillage environments. This field-based research project will examine the effects of soil and crop management on weed and arthropod populations and soil quality. The project will also provide opportunities for the development and delivery of outreach programs and materials to a broad audience. Mycorrhizal ecology/agroecology- Roger Koide is seeking a student to study sustainable cropping systems based on ecological principles with special emphasis on mycorrhizal fungi. The student will have the opportunity to interact with a diversity of researchers, a postdoc, and other graduate students in Ecology, Horticulture, Crop and Soil Sciences, Entomology, The Rodale Institute, and the US Department of Agriculture. Cropping-system practices are being designed to minimize pest populations, conserve nutrients, soil, energy, and off-farm inputs. Paleoecology - Peter Wilf is a paleobotanist with broad interests in past environmental change, plant evolution and extinction, and the evolution of plant-insect associations. He seeks students who will bring an ecological approach to paleobiology or to modern analog studies. Questions: Contact the Ecology Program Assistant (Jean Pierce, jep32@psu.edu) or the Ecology Program Chair (David Eissenstat, dme9@psu.edu). Posted: 10/1/09.

Pennsylvania State University: An assistantship for a Masters student in Horticulture or Ecology is available for 2010/2011 and 2011/2012 to study sustainable cropping systems based on ecological principles with special emphasis on mycorrhizal fungi. The degree can be awarded in either Horticulture or Ecology, and the student will have the opportunity to interact with a diversity of researchers, a postdoc, and other graduate students in Horticulture, Crop and Soil Sciences, Entomology, The Rodale Institute, and the US Department of Agriculture. Cropping-system practices are being designed to minimize pest populations, conserve nutrients, soil, energy, and off-farm inputs. For more information, contact: Dr. Roger Koide (rxk13@psu.edu), Department of Horticulture. Assistantships for an MS or PhD Graduate degrees are available in Agronomy and Soil Science at The Pennsylvania State University to study sustainable cropping systems based on ecological principles. Cropping-system practices are being designed to minimize pest populations, conserve nutrients, soil, energy, and off-farm inputs. A recently funded 3-year project with a team of Penn State and USDA-ARS scientists, is seeking graduate applicants for 2009/2010 (even though it is late in the application process) and for 2010/2011. For more information, contact: Dr. Heather Karsten or Dr. Douglas Beegle, Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (hdk3@psu.edu; 814-863-3179; dbb@psu.edu). Posted: 9/15/09.

Purdue University: Multiple (2-3) graduate student (PhD and MS) assistantships available to participate in research projects exploring ecological dynamics of Great Lakes fishes. These projects involve an integration of field studies, laboratory analyses, controlled experiments and quantitative modeling. Research topics include: 1) Recruitment and early life history dynamics: linking early life growth and survival of Great Lakes fishes to physical processes. 2) Intra-specific life history trait variation: inter-population variation of maturation schedules, growth rates, and egg characteristics. 3) Description and modeling of food-web connections among Great Lakes fishes. Within these general research topics students will have flexibility to develop their own thesis projects. Selected individuals will enroll in Purdue's Department of Forestry and Natural Resources in West Lafayette, IN. Qualifications: Minimum qualifications include a BS (for MS position) or MS (for PhD position) in Biology, Ecology, Fisheries Science, or related field; GPA of 3.2 or greater; and above average GRE scores (at least 50th percentile for quantitative and verbal; at least 4.0 for analytical writing). Assistantships include stipend, full tuition coverage, and insurance. Start date: negotiable (sometime between March-August 2010). For full consideration, please respond by 18-December-2009 and submit cover letter, CV, GRE scores (unofficial is fine), transcript (unofficial is fine), and names and contact numbers of three references to Tomas Höök (thook@purdue.edu; 765-496-6799). For more details please contact Tomas Höök. Posted: 10/19/09.

Purdue University: I have funding to support graduate research assistantships for at least one and potentially two students at the MS or PhD level in the Department of Entomology. My lab studies the ecology of insects in agricultural systems with a focus on tri-trophic interactions linking plants, herbivores, and natural enemies. Recent topics addressed include plant responses to herbivory, the ecology of “fear” in food webs, and aboveground-belowground interactions linking foliar and root herbivores. However, pursuing alternative topics and research directions that fall within the realm of insect population and community ecology is welcomed and encouraged. Ideal students should be highly enthusiastic and interested in working at the interface of ecology, entomology, and agriculture. Position comes with an annual stipend of $17,500, full tuition waiver, and benefits package including health insurance. Preferred start date is Summer or Fall 2010, although this may be flexible depending on the circumstances. Interested individuals should contact me (Ian Kaplan) directly via email (ikaplan@purdue.edu) to discuss their background, qualifications, and research interests. Posted: 9/16/09.

Rutgers University: I am seeking to fill two positions to work on a project investigating the role of root characteristics (morphology, growth patterns and foraging behavior, nutrient uptake abilities) in explaining competitive success of invasive species in forests. The project will involve root excavations and root system measurements, experimental studies of root growth with respect to nutrient (mainly nitrogen) availability, experimental studies of root growth as a determinant of competitive interactions, and stable isotope-based measurements of nitrogen uptake capacity. The project is being done in collaboration with Dr. Jason Grabosky, an expert on root system morphology and structural characteristics. A postdoctoral associate is sought who has experience in the analysis of root system morphology and growth. This person will handle the field-based root system excavations, morphological analyses, and implementation of the competition experiments. Experience and/or training in soil science and/or nutrient dynamics would also be desirable. A graduate student (PhD) is sought who has a background and interest in soils and/or nitrogen dynamics and its role as both a factor mediating competition and a factor mediating root growth and activity patterns (foraging 'behavior'). The student will apply to and enroll in the Graduate Program in Ecology and Evolution, a large and dynamic graduate program based on the New Brunswick (NJ) campus of Rutgers. For more information, please contact Dr. Joan Ehrenfeld, ehrenfel@rci.rutgers.edu or 732-932-1081. Posted: 10/15/09.

Rutgers University: Three Ph.D or M.S. student opportunities are available in the Winfree lab for fall 2010. The focus of our lab's work is pollination ecology, broadly defined to include insect conservation and plant reproductive biology (see http://winfreelab.rutgers.edu). 1) A 1-year fellowship is available for an outstanding applicant to the Ph.D. program in Entomology; the remainder of the Ph.D. stipend would be covered by a TA. 2) A 6-month, $17k Research Technician position is available beginning in April 2010. This is an excellent opportunity for a student who would like to continue with pollinator restoration as a thesis topic in Fall 2010. 3) In collaboration with Professor Peter Morin at Rutgers, we have funding to establish experimental plots of native and non-native plant species to investigate the effect of invasive species on pollination webs. For the last two opportunities, a graduate student stipend would need to be obtained through a TA or a merit scholarship, several of which are available through Rutgers. Interested students should email Rachael Winfree (rwinfree@rutgers.edu) with a brief description of your background and research interests, your undergraduate university, major and GPA, and GRE scores. Posted: 10/5/09.

Rutgers University: Graduate Assistantship in the Graduate Program in Ecology and Evolution. A student is sought to start January 2010 (spring semester) for a study of seed dispersal along urban rivers in New Jersey as part of an NSF supported Urban Long-term Research Area-Exploratory project. The project will involve inter-disciplinary work with social scientists and mathematical ecologists on a highly urban watershed in New Jersey. The student should have a strong interest in urban ecology and a background in plant ecology. The assistantship includes a competitive stipend, health benefits and tuition. A student interested in a Ph. D. degree is preferred, but I will consider a student interested in a Master’s degree. For more information, please contact Dr. Joan Ehrenfeld, ehrenfel@rci.rutgers.edu or 732-932-1081 before submitting an application to the graduate program. Posted: 9/8/09.

Saint Francis Xavier University: A new M.Sc. position will become available in my lab in September 2009. Research will be funded by Canada's Department of Fisheries and Oceans and will investigate regional differences in rocky intertidal community composition as related to environmental stress and nearshore productivity on the Gulf of St Lawrence coast (Nova Scotia, Canada). I'm seeking a student with clear interests in marine ecology. To apply, please email to me: (i) a copy of your CV (including academic transcripts) and (ii) the names and emails of 2 professors who can provide a reference on you. If you have any questions, please let me know. Thank you, Ricardo A. Scrosati (rscrosat@stfx.ca, 1-902-867-5289). Posted: 6/4/09.

South Dakota State University: Ph.D. Research Assistantship, Stipend: $20,778/yr; annual increases, plus substantial tuition waiver. Responsibilities: Lake mapping and database integration that leads to a classification system and habitat restoration plan. Project will involve some physical lake mapping and truthing, but most effort will be in performing spatial computing and database manipulation. Must report results in peer-reviewed publications and oral presentations. Qualifications: Interest in landscape processes that influence lake habitat quality and fish communities. Applicants should have a B.S. or M.S. in fisheries, limnology, landscape ecology, or related interdisciplinary field and competitive GPA and GRE scores. Strong computer, analytical and writing skills, good knowledge of geographic information systems (e.g., ArcMap), and databases (e.g., STATSGO, STORET, GAP). Ability to interact and work effectively with multi-disciplinary groups is essential. Contact: Send letter of interest, resume, names, phone numbers or email addresses of three references, and copies of transcripts and GRE scores (photocopies & email attachments acceptable) to: Michael Brown, michael.brown@sdstate.edu, Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences, SDSU, Brookings, SD 57007-1696. Posted: 10/13/09.

Southern Illinois University: SIU is offering PhD fellowships under NSF's Integrative Graduate Education Research and Training (IGERT) program. Fellowships are available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents in any water-, river- or watershed-related field of study, including Geology, Hydrology, Geography, Engineering, Plant Biology, Zoology, Ecology, and other areas. Applicants should have a MS-level degree at the time of enrollment (direct PhD possible in cases of exceptional merit) and should have grades, test scores, and research records commensurate with one of NSF?s most coveted fellowship awards. Fellowship benefits include $30k/year stipends, $10,500/year education allowances, student laptops, annual international river basin tours, and support for research, conference travel, etc. Application deadline in Jan. 31, 2010. For more information, please see Watershed Science and Policy IGERT or contact igert@siu.edu. Posted: 9/29/09.

Southern Illinois University: Ph.D. Research Assistantship in the Environmental Resources and Policy program. We are looking for a highly motivated graduate student at the PhD level to join a collaborative NSF project looking at the interface between renewable energy policy and economics, agroecosystems management, and ecosystem services, with a particular focus on water quality and carbon. The research will involve economic and systems modeling of agroecosystems, and the analysis of farmer’s decisions in the bioeconomy from a variety of perspectives (economic, geographic, environmental), and will be conducted by an interdisciplinary team. Quantitative aptitude, an interest in economics and policy, and well developed verbal and written skills are necessary. Experience with multivariate or spatial statistics preferred. The project includes a good amount of research flexibility, and candidates interested in the development of student-driven research questions are welcomed. The student will enroll in the ER&P Ph.D. program. The focus of the program is addressing sustainability issues - meeting the economic needs of the present while maintaining the natural capital required to meet the economic and environmental needs of the future. To this end, the ER&P Ph.D. provides advanced inter-disciplinary training and research on physical, biological, and social processes responsible for natural resource and environmental problems facing contemporary society. The students will be expected to present the results of their research at regional and national meetings and to prepare manuscripts of these findings for publication in the peer-reviewed literature. The assistantship comes with a competitive stipend and covers the cost of tuition and fees. Start date is the Fall semester 2009. Prior to formal application to SIU, interested applicants are strongly encouraged to contact Dr. Silvia Secchi (ssecchi@siu.edu) with a letter of interest, including cumulative GPA, GRE scores if available, description of any previous research experience, and contact information for three references. Please feel free to contact Silvia with any informal inquiries. Posted: 7/1/09.

Southern Illinois University: The Cooperative Wildlife Research Laboratory, in the Zoology Department, is inviting applications for a PhD-level Graduate Research Assistantship beginning January 2010. Assistantships are on a 12-month basis, with competitive stipend plus full tuition waiver and support for research activities. This project will examine short- and long term movement patterns of white-tailed deer in Illinois, especially group cohesion and inter-group interactions, in the context of potential disease spread. The successful candidate have the opportunity to take advantage of extensive existing datasets of movement data as well as initiate new field studies. This project will also provide the successful applicants opportunities to develop and apply mathematical modeling and other quantitative skills. Degree and Qualifications: Graduate studies will lead to a Ph.D. in Zoology or Ecology. Competitive GPA and GRE scores are required. Applicants with backgrounds in wildlife biology, ecology, and/or zoology are encouraged to apply. Prior field experience and coursework or experience in mathematics, ecological modeling, statistics, or computer science are desirable. Send (electronic preferred) a CV, transcripts, GRE scores, and contact information for 3 references to: Eric Schauber, Cooperative Wildlife Research Lab, Mailcode 6504, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL, 62901. schauber@siu.edu, (618) 453-6940, (618) 453-6944 (fax). Posted: 10/8/09.

State University of New York at Buffalo: doctoral study in ecosystem restoration. The Ecosystem Restoration through Interdisciplinary Exchange (ERIE) program provides students with the technical, professional, and personal skills necessary to become leaders in the rapidly advancing field of ecosystem restoration. The ERIE Program is innovative and interdisciplinary, combining academic training in environmental sciences, engineering, and policy with focused research on ecological restoration linked to nationally-recognized watershed and stream restoration efforts in western New York State and the lower Great Lakes watershed. Eligible ERIE students (US citizens or permanent residents only) are funded through a NSF IGERT traineeship that provides tuition, a generous stipend, and a research allowance for two years of Ph.D. graduate work, followed by additional support through departmental assistantships. ERIE Program trainees take several core courses in ecosystem restoration principles and practice, attend external professional training short courses, and have the opportunity for Canadian academic exchange activities, while also completing requirements for a doctorate in any of the eight participating science, engineering, and policy programs at the University at Buffalo or at nearby Buffalo State College. Applications are due February 1, 2010 for admission in the Fall 2010 semester. For program and application information, please visit www.erie.buffalo.edu or contact: David M. Blersch, Director, ERIE IGERT Program (716-645-4001, igert-erie@buffalo.edu). Posted: 10/7/09.

Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL: part of the ETH Domain, WSL employs approximately 500 people working on the sustainable use and protection of the landscapes and habitats and a responsible approach to handling natural hazards. The Research Unit Community Ecology seeks to understand the patterns and processes that shape multispecies assemblages and their dynamics. In a project funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation we will investigate the top-down effects of four herbivore groups on vegetation and soil properties in the Swiss National Park and are offering a PhD Position in Ecosystem-Herbivore Interactions. You will collect field and laboratory data on how herbivores affect plant and soil properties through top-down processes; use uni- and multivariate statistics to analyze the results; publish your results in recognized scientific journals; and assist in the supervision of students. Your qualifications: University degree (M.Sc.) in Biology/Environmental Science/Ecology, Evolution and/or Systematics, experienced in herbivore, plant and soil ecology, laboratory experience, very good written and spoken English (knowledge of a Swiss National language of advantage), able and willing to work for several months - sometimes under adverse conditions - in a highelevation area, interdisciplinary and innovative work-style, committed and persevering team player. Interested? Please send your complete, written application with photo and short summary of your M.Sc. thesis using reference number 600 to Mrs. Monika Huber, Human Resources WSL, Zuercherstrasse 111, CH-8903 Birmensdorf, Switzerland. Dr. Anita C. Risch, tel. +41 (0) 44 739 23 46, and Dr. Martin Schütz, tel. +41 (0) 44 739 25 26, will be happy to answer any questions or offer further information. Posted: 8/11/09.

Texas A&M University: The Department of Entomology, a growing and vibrant Department with stimulating and diverse research opportunities, is pleased to announce the availability of travel grants for prospective PhD students. These grants, which provide airfare (within the continental United States), hotel accommodations and a per diem for food, give prospective PhD students the opportunity to meet our faculty, students and staff, tour the department and campus, and explore College Station. For more information on how to apply for a PhD travel grant, please visit us at http://insects.tamu.edu/students/. Posted: 10/7/09.

Texas State University-San Marcos: The Department of Biology invites applications for a PhD research assistantship focusing on ecological modeling of invasive species control by prescribed fire. We seek a highly qualified and motivated student to develop a model of fire-disturbed perennial grassland. The purpose is to explore the long-term success of prescribed fire strategies in which fire is timed with respect to the physiological status of the invader and native species. The student will also conduct field work to inform model development and test predictions. The project will provide excellent cross-disciplinary training in ecological modeling, plant physiology and community ecology. The student will be initially supported by a teaching scholarship. The Biology Department has strengths in organismal biology, aquatic resource management, conservation, population and evolutionary ecology, providing rich opportunities for broad scholarly development. San Marcos is an attractive student-oriented town at the edge of the Texas Hill Country, less than an hour’s drive from Austin and San Antonio. For further information contact Dr. Susan Schwinning (schwinn@txstate.edu, phone: 512-245-5373). Applications should be received by 15 January 2010 for the August starting date. More information about the Department and application procedures is available at www.bio.txstate.edu. Posted: 10/27/09.

Texas Tech University: There is funding for a MS student to work in the lab of David Rogowski on a project entitled, "Native springsnails and the invasive red-rim melania snail (Melanoides tuberculata), species habitat associations and life history investigations in the San Solomon Spring complex, Texas”. The objectives of this research is to determine patterns of abundance, distribution, and habitat use of two native snails, Phantom Cave snail (Cochliopa texana), Phantom Spring tryonia (Tryonia cheatumi), and the invasive red-rim melania snail (Melanoides tuberculta) in San Solomon Springs, and potential interactions. Both native snails are State Listed Priority and Federal Candidate species. San Solomon Springs is located in Balmorhea State Park, in west Texas. Stipend: ~$15k/year, with tuition waiver. Student fees and health insurance (if you want it) come out of the stipend. Start date: January 2010. Qualifications: BS in ecology/biology, with an emphasis in aquatic ecology. Applicant should be motivated, have a strong work ethic, and play well with others. Applicants with field research experience preferred, and those with macroinvertebrate sampling/identification experience will be given a priority. Interested applicants should send a cover letter explaining their interest along with a CV and GRE scores to the e-mail address below. Our Department requires: GPA, GRE scores (>1100 favored), 3 letters of reference, C.V. Information on formal application as an MS candidate can be found at the Department of Natural Resources website. I will be accepting applications until 4 December 2009 or until a suitable candidate is selected. David Rogowski (david.rogowski@ttu.edu), Assistant Professor, Department of Natural Resources Management, Texas Tech University, Box 42125, Lubbock, Texas 79409-2125 USA. Posted: 9/18/09.

Texas Tech University: A Ph.D. student is wanted to join a collaborative physiological ecology project directed by Dr. A. Scott Holaday (TTU) and Dr. Joy Zedler, University of Wisconsin, Madison. The project’s goal is to make quantitative comparisons of an invasive wetland grass, Phalaris arundinacea (reed canary grass), and the native sedge, Carex stricta, it often displaces in order to predict outcomes of P. arundinacea given eutrophication and climate changes alone and in combination. Research fellowships are available on a competitive basis for United States citizens beginning January 2010 through the Department of Biological Sciences at Texas Tech. Additional fellowships are anticipated for September 2010. Fellowships include a competitive stipend, tuition and fees, and insurance. Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled for either January or September 2010. For more information, contact Dr. A. Scott Holaday (scott.holaday@ttu.edu; 806-742-2710 ext. 260). Posted: 8/24/09.

Texas Tech University: I am recruiting graduate students into my lab to work on fire ecology and plant ecology. There is great leeway for individual graduate projects, but the themes of my lab's research are described at www.schwilk.org. Possible areas of research include effects of climate change on vegetation in fire-prone communities, plant ecological strategies and fire, post-fire seed germination biology, and community composition effects on flammability. Funding is available through competitive research assistant fellowships to strong applicants who apply immediately. For more information, contact Dr. Dylan Schwilk. (dylan.schwilk@ttu.edu). Links to specific application procedures and deadlines are available at http://www.schwilk.org/pro-students.html. Posted: 8/10/09.

Trent University: A 4-year PhD Graduate Research Assistantship will be available beginning January 2011 to conduct research on the physiological and/or chemical basis of phenotypic plasticity of larval amphibians, relative to perceived predation risk. The work will consist of experimentally rearing amphibian larvae relative to predation risk and/or other treatments (e.g., food or disease manipulation), and assessing their behavioural and morphological responses. Additional work may focus on characterizing chemical cues associated with predation risk avoidance, examining metabolic or hormonal responses to such risk, or other relevant questions to be developed by the student. Our recent work indicates that adaptive responses to predation risk in larval amphibians are strong and have an underlying physiological and chemical basis; we are poised to expand our program into mechanistic explanations for observed plasticity, and the student’s work will serve as a cornerstone. The successful applicant must have an MSc degree in Biology, Ecology, or related field, and have strong experimental, laboratory, and quantitative skills. Only candidates with a demonstrated ability and desire to publish research findings will be considered. The total financial package will include graduate stipend (a minimum of $21k) and waiver of any non-Canadian tuition fees. Send cover letter, resume, unofficial transcripts and names of 3 references to: Dennis Murray, Dept. Biology, Trent University, Peterborough, ON, K9J 7B8, CANADA, tel: 705-748-1011 x7078, dennismurray@trentu.ca. The position will be offered as soon as a suitable candidate is found, or as late as October 31, 2009. Posted: 9/29/09.

Tulane University: Seeking a PhD student to work on a collaborative project studying the winter ecology, survival and migratory connectivity of Tree Swallows. The project is flexible and will be designed by the student but will involve fieldwork in the southern US and Mexico and may involve population modeling. The candidate should have strong quantitative and writing skills and be able to work for extended periods of time in the field. Support is available from a combination of research and teaching assistantships and the student will also be expected to apply for external scholarships. Previous experience with mist-netting and bird banding is strongly preferred. Fluency in Spanish would also be advantageous. The successful applicant would join the lab of Dr Caz Taylor at Tulane in New Orleans, LA. Opportunities exist to spend some time at labs of collaborators, Dr Ryan Norris at University of Guelph and Dr David Winkler at Cornell University. Interested applicants should send a letter and resume detailing interests, previous research experience, and education including GPA and GRE scores to caz AT tulane.edu before Oct 15 2009. Posted: 9/14/09.

Universität Potsdam: PhD position: ecohydrological modelling of drylands. We seek candidates with a background in mathematical or dynamic, process-based computer simulation modelling preferably in the fields of ecology or/and hydrology. The candidate will continue the development of a novel eco-hydrological modelling approach and investigate (i) vegetation – hydrology feedbacks at the landscape level in dryland systems, and (ii) conduct landscape vulnerability analyses with regard to extreme climatic events. The position is part of a multidisciplinary and international research project dealing with the impact of global change on water resources in the Jordan River Basin. The project involves scientists from many disciplines from Germany, Israel, Jordan, and the Palestinian Autonomy. Place of work will be Potsdam, which is well connected to Berlin (40 km). Our lab provides a beautiful location in the royal Sans Souci park and an interesting research team consisting of a mix of modellers and emipirical researchers. The position can be filled starting November 2009. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. They should be sent in English or German in pdf format via email to the address below and should include a statement of interest, CV, and names and addresses of one or two references. Contact: Florian Jeltsch (jeltsch@uni-potsdam.de); Research Group Plant Ecology & Nature Conservation. Posted: 9/25/09.

Université du Québec à Montréal: Opportunity to study cyanobacterial ecology in the beautiful lakes of southern Quebec. Both M.Sc. and Ph.D. students accepted. Current interests are in physical-biological coupling, ecophysiology, community dynamics, methods development, factors of control, and toxin dynamics. The UQAM is a French-speaking university, so M.Sc. students should know French or be willing to learn. Ph.D. students take almost no courses so they can survive with no French, but they will miss out unless they too take the plunge to learn French. We have a large group of aquatic scientists at UQAM and we are part of a larger limnological research association - the GRIL. David Bird (bird.david@UQAM.CA), Dép. sciences biologiques, Université du Québec à Montréal, CP 8888, succ. Centre-Ville, Montréal, QC, H3C 3P8. tel: 514-987-3000 ext. 7859#, fax: 514-987-4647. Posted: 9/3/09.

Université Laval: We are looking for a PhD candidate to participate in a research project investigating space use patterns of raccoon and striped skunk in order to orient intervention strategies aiming at reducing the risk of rabies epizootics. Individuals from each species will be equipped with GPS radio-collars to evaluate their fine-scale habitat selection. The candidate will also use analysis of animal movement to identify major corridors of rabies propagation. Fieldwork will take place in the Montérégie region of Québec. The project is a collaboration between Université Laval (D. Fortin), Université de Sherbrooke (F. Pelletier) and Ministère des Ressources naturelles et de la Faune (J. Mainguy). The student will be registered at Laval. Qualifications: Have completed an M.Sc. in biological sciences or in forestry. Have a strong interest for quantitative ecology and statistics. Knowledge of GIS is an advantage. Laval is a French university and some basic French is therefore desirable. Students admissible for NSERC and FQRNT fellowships will be favored. Documents to provide: Applicants for this position should forward a short covering letter indicating their motivation, accompanied by a current CV, unofficial transcripts and contact information of three references. We will start reviewing the applications on 23 September 2009. Daniel Fortin (Daniel.Fortin@bio.ulaval.ca), Département de biologie, Pavillon Alexandre-Vachon, 1045, av. de la Médecine, Université Laval, Québec (Qc) G1V 0A6, Canada. Posted: 9/16/09.

Université Laval: We are looking for a Ph.D. candidate to participate in a research project on the spatial dynamics of bison distribution in Prince Albert National Park, Saskatchewan. The research objective is to gain ecological information that can help to elaborate management strategies to decrease the excursion of bison in agricultural lands adjacent to the park. More specifically, this project will evaluate how habitat functional connectivity is linked to predation risk by grey wolf and to landscape structure. Based on this knowledge, the candidate will establish local habitat modifications that can influence the global distribution of bison. Bison (>30) and 3-4 wolf packs will be followed with GPS collars. The project will require several field seasons under harsh weather conditions. The candidate will be part of a research team combining researchers, graduate students, and managers from Laval (D. Fortin), University of Saskatchewan (P. McLoughlin) and Parks Canada. The student will be registered at Laval. Qualifications: Have completed an M.Sc. in biological sciences or forestry. Have a valid driver license. Have a strong interest in wildlife conservation, modeling, spatial ecology and statistics. Laval is a French university and some basic French is desirable. Knowledge of GIS and field experience is an advantage. A fellowship of $16.5k/year is available for 3 years. However, students admissible for NSERC and FQRNT fellowships will be favored. Documents to provide: Applicants for this position should forward a short covering letter indicating their motivation, accompanied by a current CV, unofficial transcripts and contact information of three references. We will start reviewing the applications on 23 September 2009. Daniel Fortin (Daniel.Fortin@bio.ulaval.ca), Département de biologie, Pavillon Alexandre-Vachon, 1045, av. de la Médecine, Université Laval, Québec (Qc) G1V 0A6, Canada. Posted: 9/16/09.

Université Laval: PhD research project available to study the influence of forest harvesting on source-sink dynamics of wildlife species. We are looking for a PhD candidate to participate in a research project on the changes in abundance of different wildlife groups (birds, small mammals and snowshoe hare) along a gradient of forest succession. More specifically, the objective is to understand source-sink dynamics for several species along chronosequences resulting from forest harvesting. The student will have to evaluate biodiversity patterns and identify factors influencing habitat quality along the chronosequences. Fieldwork (summer and winter) will take place in Côte-Nord region of Québec’s boreal forest. The candidate will be part of a research group comprised of researchers from Laval University and Lakehead University (D.W. Morris). The student will be registered at Laval. Qualifications: Have completed an M.Sc. in biological sciences or in forestry. Have a strong interest in biodiversity conservation, sylviculture and statistics. Laval is a French university and some basic French is therefore desirable. Knowledge of GIS and field experience is also an advantage. A fellowship of $19k/year is available for 3 years. However, students admissible for NSERC and FQRNT fellowships will be favored. Documents to provide: Applicants for this position should forward a short covering letter indicating their motivation, accompanied by a current CV, unofficial transcripts and contact information of three references. We will start reviewing the applications on 23 September 2009. Daniel Fortin (Daniel.Fortin@bio.ulaval.ca), Département de biologie, Pavillon Alexandre-Vachon, 1045, av. de la Médecine, Université Laval, Québec (Qc) G1V 0A6, Canada. Posted: 9/16/09.

Université Laval: We are looking for a PhD student to participate in a research project on caribou and wolf interactions in the boreal forest of the Côte-Nord region of Québec. The research objective is to assess the efficiency of current management plans for the conservation of woodland caribou living under wolf predation. More specifically, the PhD student will evaluate the interplay between space use patterns and the physical condition and survival of marked caribou. The research should also identify how landscape structure influences predation by wolf. Overall the project should provide information useful to anticipate the long-term persistence of caribou populations in managed forests. The project will involve little fieldwork but will require a detailed evaluation of GPS locations collected on approximately 45 caribou and 6 wolf packs. The candidate will be part of a research group combining researchers and graduate students from Laval University and the Ministère des Ressources Naturelles et de la Faune (S. Couturier). Qualifications: Have completed an M.Sc. in biological sciences or forestry. Have a strong interest in wildlife conservation, quantitative ecology and statistics. Laval is a French institution and some basic French is desirable. Knowledge of GIS is also an advantage. A fellowship of $19k/year is available for 3 years. However, students admissible for NSERC and FQRNT fellowships will be favored. Documents to provide: Applicants for this position should forward a short covering letter indicating their motivation, accompanied by a current CV, unofficial transcripts and contact information of three references. We will start reviewing the applications on 23 September 2009. Daniel Fortin (Daniel.Fortin@bio.ulaval.ca), Département de biologie, Pavillon Alexandre-Vachon, 1045, av. de la Médecine, Université Laval, Québec (Qc) G1V 0A6, Canada. Posted: 9/16/09.

University of Alabama: A graduate research assistantship (M.S. or Ph.D.) is available in the Department of Biological Sciences for a student to conduct research on coastal marsh responses to climate change and rising sea levels. The project will involve fieldwork and greenhouse experimentation examining interactive effects of elevated CO2, sedimentation and flooding on vegetation responses and elevation change. This project is being conducted as part of a larger research program investigating the persistence of coastal marshes to global climate change and is funded by the USGS Climate Change Program. The student will work with researchers at the University of Alabama and the USGS National Wetlands Research Center. The successful applicant will be able to propose additional research to meet his or her specific interests, provided it fits within the broader goals of the program. Applicants should have a demonstrated interest in wetlands, ecosystem ecology, or climate change. Preference will be given to those with experience conducting field or greenhouse research. In addition to stipend and health benefits, this position includes funds for fieldwork, sample processing, and some travel. Applicants able to begin work in January 2010 are especially encouraged to apply, although start dates in summer or fall 2010 are also possible. For further information, contact Dr. Julia Cherry (julia.cherry@ua.edu). Posted: 8/13/09.

University of Alabama: A Ph.D. Graduate Assistantship is available in the Department of Biological Sciences to work on an interdisciplinary project at Toolik Lake Arctic Research Station. The student’s research interests should focus on application of stable isotopes to plant ecophysiology, ecosystem physiology, or plant ecology. The project will focus on developing a comprehensive understanding of winter physiological processes for two tundra ecosystems. The student will have the opportunity to interact with scientists from the University of Alabama, Florida International University and the Arctic LTER. Working knowledge of stable isotope ratio mass spectrometry is required and familiarity with LI-COR photosynthetic and Campbell Scientific equipments is a plus. Northern latitudes are thought to be sequestering CO2 emitted from anthropogenic activities. However, the status of these ecosystems as a global sink of C in the future hinges upon the physiological responses of ecosystem components to changes in climate. There is overwhelming evidence for rapid climate change in the Arctic. Changes include the physical environment, changes in carbon balance, vegetation change. Furthermore, warming in the high latitudes is predicted to predominantly occur in the winter, and climate data support that prediction. However, the vast majority of research on tundra vegetation has focused on physiological processes during the short 2-3 month growing season, with only a handful of studies of physiological processes during the 9-10 month cold season. Although the rates of these processes are low, summed over the long cold season they are extremely important. A comprehensive understanding of cold-season physiological processes of tundra vegetation is critically needed given the large potential for further climate changes in the Arctic. This is a fully funded assistantship that includes: stipend, health insurance, travel and living accommodations during the research season at Toolik Lake. Interested students should email pdfs of 1) a current Curriculum Vita, 2) statement of research interest, 3) names, phone number and email addresses of three references as well as 4) an unofficial copy of transcripts to Dr. Behzad Mortazavi (bmortazavi@ua.edu). Posted: 8/12/09.

University of Alabama: Graduate Assistantship in Arctic Plant Physiological Ecology. A M.S. or Ph.D. Graduate Assistantship is available in the Department of Biological Sciences to work on a large interdisciplinary project at Toolik Lake Arctic Research Station. The student's research interests should focus on plant ecophysiology, ecosystem physiology, or plant ecology. The project will focus on developing a comprehensive understanding of winter physiological processes for two tundra ecosystems. The student will have the opportunity to interact with scientists from the University of Alabama, Florida International University, and the Arctic LTER. A general knowledge of LI-COR photosynthetic equipment and Campbell Scientific equipment is a plus. Rationale for this study: Inverse modeling studies of atmospheric [CO2] and 13CO2 have identified northern latitudes as regions that are sequestering CO2 derived from anthropogenic activities. However, the status of these ecosystems as a global sink of C in the future hinges upon the physiological responses of ecosystem components to changes in climate. There is overwhelming evidence for rapid climate change in the Arctic. These changes include the physical environment, carbon balance, plant community structure. Furthermore, warming in the high latitudes is predicted to predominantly occur in the winter, and climate data support that prediction. However, the vast majority of research on tundra vegetation has focused on physiological processes during the short 2-3 month growing season, with only a handful of studies of physiological processes during the 9-10 month cold season. Although the rates of these processes are low, summed over the long cold season they are extremely important. A comprehensive understanding of cold-season physiological processes of tundra vegetation is critically needed given the large potential for further climate changes in the Arctic. This is a fully funded assistantship that includes: stipend, health insurance, travel and living accommodations at Toolik Lake. Interested students should send a copy of their CV, statement of research interest, and unofficial copy of transcripts to Dr. Gregory Starr or contact Dr. Starr for more details (gstarrua.edu or 352-846-0889). Posted: 7/31/08, revised: 6/22/09.

University of Alabama: A Ph.D. Graduate Assistantship is available in the Department of Biological Sciences to work on a large interdisciplinary project at Jones Ecological Research Center. The student's research interests should focus on one of the following plant ecophysiology, ecosystem physiology, fire ecology, forest productivity, or plant ecology. The project will focus on developing a comprehensive understanding of fire's impact on ecosystem carbon dynamic along a natural moisture gradient of long leaf pine systems. The student will have the opportunity to interact with scientists from the University of Alabama, Jones Ecological Research Center, USFS, University of Edinburgh and University of New Hampshire. A general knowledge of photosynthetic equipment, eddy covariance techniques and data logger use is a plus. Rationale for this study: Fire regulates the dynamics of many forest ecosystems but in complex ways that remain poorly understood. Fires are a natural component of the ecology of forests in the southeastern United States. These forests are an important economic resource, and also govern critical ecosystem services such as carbon storage, sustaining biodiversity and watershed protection. The goal of this research studentship is to determine the interactions between fire behavior, forest dynamics, and energy balance and carbon sequestration. The student will also investigate the role of moisture gradients on fires and forest processes, to improve predictions of forest response to precipitation changes expected due to global change. This is a fully funded assistantship that includes: stipend, health insurance, living quarters at the Jones Center, and a small research budget for the student. Interested students should send a copy of their CV, statement of research interest, and unofficial copy of transcripts to Dr. Gregory Starr or contact Dr. Starr for more details (gstarr@ua.edu or 205-348-0556). The student selected for this assistantship will be co-advised by Dr. Gregory Starr (U of A) and Dr. Robert Mitchell (Jones Ecological Research Center). Posted: 7/31/08, revised: 12/3/08, 3/3/09, 6/22/09.

University of Alaska Anchorage: MS Assistantships in Physiological Ecology. Two research assistantships are available to study the interactions between climate and vegetation in northern Alaska. The first position will be based during the summer months at the Toolik Lake Field Station in the northern foothills of the Brooks Range. The successful candidate will work with collaborators from the University of Toledo, Colorado State University, the Marine Biological Laboratory and UC Santa Barbara on a study designed to reveal the seasonal controls on nutrient availability in arctic tussock tundra. The student’s primary responsibility will be to use a minirhizotron camera system to monitor patterns and magnitudes of fine root production across a range of experimental treatments. The Toolik Field Station is accessed via the haulroad to Prudhoe Bay and has well-developed housing, dining and laboratory facilities. Excellent hiking opportunities are available within a 15-20 minute drive of camp. The second position will be based at a remote site near the Arctic treeline in Noatak National Preserve, northwest AK. The study sites are approximately 20 miles ESE of Noatak and 40 miles NNE of Kotzebue, AK. Access is via bush plane during the summer months and snowmachine during the wintertime. The successful candidate will contribute to a study of the seasonal patterns of canopy gas exchange and growth in all major organs of white spruce (branch, root, etc.) in three contrasting habitats. There are no permanent facilities at the Noatak site and applicants should be prepared to spend long periods of time in the field (e.g., 3 weeks) with one carefully selected field assistant between re-supply trips to Kotzebue. Outdoor recreational opportunities (hiking, rafting, fly fishing) are outstanding at the Noatak site. Both students will be based in Anchorage during the off-season (mid-September- late May). Laboratory and desk/office space is available in the Ecosystems Laboratory on the UAA campus and affordable housing can be found within a bike ride of campus. Anchorage is a surprisingly diverse city with outstanding outdoor recreation opportunities, including more than 130 km of groomed Nordic ski trails within the city limits. To apply for one or both of the positions, please send a resume and cover letter to Dr. Paddy Sullivan (paddy@uaa.alaska.edu). Applicants interested in the Noatak position should be sure to describe the extent of their outdoor experience in the cover letter. Posted: 10/7/09.

University of Alberta: I am seeking two outstanding students to pursue one PhD and one MSc degrees in forest entomology. Current research in my lab explores questions of broad relevance to invasion biology and ecology, emphasizing chemical ecology of forest insects. By doing so, my group integrates forestry, entomology, pathology, and plant chemistry approach to characterize chemical interactions among interacting organisms (trees, insects, pathogens), determine effects of the environment and climate on altering the tripartite interactions, and understand the effects of the tripartite interactions on fitness of interacting organisms. I currently supervise two PhD and one MSc students and co-supervise one MSc and one PhD students and one postdoctoral researcher. Currently I am involved in several research projects in Canada, US and Europe. MSc student will focus on a USDA-NRI funded project characterizing the species of symbiotic bacteria associated with mountain pine beetle and different pine species and to evaluate the roles of symbiotic bacteria in mediating host utilization of the beetle in portions of its historical and emerging geographic and host ranges. Our hypothesis is that bark beetles employ specific bacteria to inhibit antagonistic fungi and facilitate symbiotic fungi, and that adapted trees employ endophytic bacteria to inhibit the beetles' symbiotic fungi. The project specific to the MSc student will determine effects of the predominant bacteria, fungi, and their combinations on mountain pine beetle reproduction, and how tree species affect these interactions in the lab. This is a joint project among Cameron R Curry and Kenneth F Raffa (University of Wisconsin, Madison) in US, and Brian H Aukema (Canadian Forest Service) and my lab in Canada. The PhD student will focus on an Alberta Ingenuity-funded project emphasizing the roles of native biotic agents, such as insects and diseases, in range and host expansion of mountain pine beetle in western Canada. The goal of this project is to lay out a blueprint of how interactions among trees, insects and microorganisms can be used as a proactive (or pre-emptive) method to understand the risk potential of species invasion. Depending on the interest and quality of the applicant, the project offers considerable flexibility in designing a research program that investigates areas of personal interest within the overall framework of the project. Background in ecology, entomology, chemical ecology, or a related field is required, as is an interest in the linkages between trees and insects. Experience with any of the following will be an asset, but is not required: plant-insect interactions, chemical ecology, and forest ecology. Proficiency in spoken and written English is a necessity. Selection of a student will be based on academic achievements, reference letters and previous research experience. Strong verbal, written, and computational skills are essential. Tuition and fees and a standard Graduate Assistantship can be offered. Students are also eligible for Tri-Council graduate scholarships (e.g. NSERC) in their first year. Both positions are available starting January 2010, but not later than May 2010. The applicant must meet the entrance requirement for the Department of Renewable Resources. Interested candidates should e-mail (1) their transcript, (2) curriculum vitae, (3) a letter describing their research experience and interests (2 page limit), (4) recent TOEFL scores (if appropriate), and (5) the names and contact information of three references to Dr. Nadir Erbilgin, Department of Renewable Resources, 230-A Earth Science Building, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E3, CANADA. Phone: (780)-492-8693; Fax: (780)-492-1767. Additional information can be obtained via email or phone call. Email: erbilgin@ualberta.ca. Posted: 8/13/09.

University of Arizona: NSF fellowships for research on vegetation-climate interactions in the Amazon. National Science Foundation (NSF) graduate fellowships ($30k per year, for up to two years) are available starting in the 2010-2011 academic year for Amazon-PIRE (Partnership for International Research and Education) for ecology and earth-system science students to study vegetation-climate interactions in the Amazon basin (Brazil). Amazon-PIRE fellows must be admitted to a participating Ph.D. program at the University of Arizona or Harvard University. Fellowships support United States citizens or permanent residents, and include an annual stipend, tuition, health insurance, and travel to Brazilian field sites and collaborating institutions. Amazon-PIRE is a U.S.-Brazilian partnership addressing the question, “What is the future of Amazon forests under climate change?" and promoting international education, collaboration, and exchange. Research focii include long term observations (via eddy flux measurements, forest plot surveys, physiological measurements, remote sensing, and aircraft sampling), experimental manipulations (in the Tropical Forest Biome of Biosphere 2), and modeling. Application deadline for funding of graduate fellowships - February 5, 2010. See the program website for more information, or email: amazonpire@arizona.edu. Application deadlines for relevant graduate programs start December 8, 2009. Posted: 10/29/09.

University of Arizona: Graduate Research Assistantship Decomposition in Drylands: Soil erosion - UV interactions. We invite applications for a graduate research assistantship (GRA; Ph. D. level preferred; 3 years funding) from students interested in decomposition processes in desert ecosystems. Most of what is known about decomposition is from studies in high rainfall areas, but this knowledge does not translate well to dryland ecosystems. Recent studies suggest solar ultra-violet radiation is a major driver of decomposition in drylands; however, other studies indicate the level of mixing of wind/water-transported soils with litter is a key factor. This project seeks to resolve these competing explanations via a series of laboratory studies and field experiments in Arizona designed to measure light energy-soil movement-decomposition interactions. These linkages will be assessed in the context of woody plant encroachment into grasslands, a globally extensive vegetation change in drylands. The graduate research assistant will be based at the University of Arizona with Steve Archer and Dave Breshears. The GRA will participate in an interdisciplinary investigation seeking new insights into processes affecting desert soil fertility and carbon storage by combining the disciplines of plant community ecology, ecosystem science and earth science in a novel framework. The GRA’s project will be field-oriented and will quantify spatial patterns of litter input and its translocation by wind and water and litter mass loss in contrasting plant community configurations. The GRA will work closely with collaborators at New Mexico State University (Heather Throop; litter chemistry), the University of Kentucky (Rebecca McCulley; microbial communities) and Loyola University (Paul Barnes, photobiology). For additional details on the project see . Starting date negotiable, but Summer 2009 is preferred. The assistantship includes an annual salary of $14,677 (MS) or $15,990 (PhD); waiver of out-of-state tuition; full remission of in-state tuition; and health insurance. Applications will be accepted until 31 May 2009 or until suitable candidate is found, and should include 1) a statement of interests and goals, 2) a CV with copies of transcripts and GRE scores, and 3) names and contact information for 3-5 references. General admission requirements. Applications and information requests should be directed (preferably via email) to Steve Archer (sarcher@Ag.arizona.edu), 325 Bio Sciences East, School of Natural Resources, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721-0043; 520 626-8791). Posted: 8/11/09.

University of Arizona: M.S. Research Assistantship in Wildlife Ecology, School of Natural Resources. A research assistantship is available to investigate effects of buffelgrass (Pennisetum ciliare) invasion on Sonoran Desert tortoises (Gopherus agassizii) in and near Saguaro National Park in southern Arizona. Start Date: mid-August 2009. Required: B.S. in wildlife science, ecology, zoology, or closely related field. Strong work ethic, good verbal and written communication skills, ability to work independently and as a member of a team under challenging field conditions. Strong interest in applied population ecology, minimum GPA of 3.2, and competitive GRE scores. Preferred Experiences: Surveying and handling wildlife, orienteering in backcountry settings. Support includes a stipend of approximately $15k per year for two years (and possibly longer), including a waiver of out-of-state tuition (but not fees). To Apply: Submit (either by mail or email) a letter of interest, resume, copies of transcripts (unofficial is fine), GRE scores, and names and contact information for three references to: Dr. Bob Steidl, 325 Biological Sciences East, School of Natural Resources, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721. Questions? email: steidl@ag.arizona.edu phone: 520-626-3164. Deadline: 21 July 2009. Posted: 6/23/09.

University of Arkansas: The Department of Biological Sciences is actively recruiting Distinguished Doctoral Fellows (DDF) and Doctoral Academy Fellows (DAF) to begin graduate work in August 2010. The Distinguished Fellowships have a range of $30-$40k for a 12-month stipend, and the DAFs have a range of $20-30k for a 12-month stipend. Both are available for up to 4 years of support based on satisfactory progress. Fellowships will require research and/or teaching depending upon the major professor chosen. In addition, fellowships include a full waiver of tuition, health care benefits, and most fees. Outstanding students from all biological disciplines are encouraged to apply. Selection will be based on undergraduate GPA, GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and undergraduate (B.S.) research experience or graduate (M.S.) research experience. Applicants should contact faculty members in the Department of Biological Sciences whose research they may be interested in directly. For more information see departmental requirements and fellowships for general requirements. DAF applications can be made at any time and will be reviewed as received. Review of DDF applications will begin on 16 January 2010 with decisions made by the end of February. Those qualified applicants not chosen for a DDF will be offered a DAF. Contact Dr. David McNabb (dmcnabb@uark.edu, 479-575-3251), Chair, Graduate Studies Committee, Department of Biological Sciences, for any further information or questions. Posted: 10/29/09.

University of California-San Diego: The Ecology, Behavior & Evolution (EBE) Section at UCSD seeks outstanding applicants to the PhD graduate program for the fall of 2010. EBE is one of four sections within the Division of Biological Sciences at UCSD which sits at the center of the large, vibrant, and varied biological research community in San Diego. This diverse group of researchers provides a stimulating intellectual environment for graduate training and research with a wide range of opportunities for interactions with local institutions such as Scripps Oceanographic Institute. Faculty within the EBE Section have focused interests in experimental and genetic evolution, community and ecosystems ecology, and insect ecology, behavior and evolution. The graduate program is committed to a supportive environment for research and learning and provides five years of funding for graduate student stipends and benefits. More information and application instructions for the UCSD Division of Biological Sciences Graduate Program. Posted: 11/3/09.

University of California-Santa Barbara: Two graduate assistantships are available on an NSF-funded project using remote sensing, GIS, and computer models to study land use and coupled urban systems. Students with a strong background in a relevant field of science or engineering and an interest in interdisciplinary research are encouraged to apply. Application deadline is Dec. 15, 2009. Interested students should contact Dr. Joe McFadden (mcfadden@geog.ucsb.edu) or Dr. Jennifer King (jyking@geog.ucsb.edu). Posted: 10/13/09.

University of California-Santa Barbara: A graduate research assistantship (M.S. or Ph.D.) is available for a student to work on a project that examines how the diversity of freshwater species influences the transport and fate of nanoparticles through a food web. The project is part of the new NSF/EPA funded Center for the Environmental Implications of Nanomaterials (CEIN), which brings together a team of engineers, medical doctors, and environmental scientists from several University of California campuses to study the biological impacts of nanomaterials from cells to ecosystems. The student will help set-up and manage the proposed experiments, as well as develop their own thesis or dissertation topic to compliment the broader goals of the project. A background in ecology, environmental science, limnology, toxicology, or a related field is required. Experience working with freshwater organisms is preferred, but not required. Top-notch research facilities are available at UCSB, and interaction with faculty in the Institute for Computational Earth System Science, the Bren School of Environment, the Marine Science Institute, and the National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis offers unparalleled opportunity for training that spans multiple disciplines and ecosystems. The assistantship offers a competitive stipend plus tuition and health insurance. Applications are due to the Graduate Division by December 15th. Pre-inquiries should be directed to Dr. Bradley J. Cardinale (cardinale@lifesci.ucsb.edu). Posted: 10/7/09.

University of California-Santa Barbara: A graduate research assistantship (M.S. or Ph.D.) is available for a student to work on a newly funded NSF project that examines the relationship between species diversity and the productivity of aquatic ecosystems. The goal of this project is to resolve two contrasting perspectives - one that suggests species diversity is a primary determinant of the productivity of ecosystems, and a second that suggests species diversity is simply a consequence of ecosystem production. The project will use stream ecosystems as a model, focusing on the diversity of both primary producers (freshwater algae) and consumers (invertebrate herbivores). The work includes field and laboratory experiments, as well as a theoretical component through collaboration with Dr. Kevin Gross at North Carolina State University. The student will help set-up and manage the proposed experiments, as well as develop their own thesis or dissertation topic to compliment the broader goals of the project. A background in ecology, environmental science, limnology, or a related field is required. Experience working with freshwater organisms is preferred, but not required. Top-notch research facilities are available at UCSB, and interaction with faculty in the Institute for Computational Earth System Science, the Bren School of Environment, the Marine Science Institute, and the National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis offers unparalleled opportunity for a graduate training that spans multiple disciplines and ecosystems. The assistantship offers a competitive stipend plus tuition and health insurance. Applications are due to the Graduate Division by December 15th. Pre-inquiries should be directed to Dr. Bradley J. Cardinale (cardinale@lifesci.ucsb.edu). Posted: 10/7/09.

University of Florida: Two Ph.D. and one M.S. graduate fellowships are available through the School of Forest Resources and Conservation to conduct research on aspects of adaptive forest management. This prestigious fellowship, granted by the Food and Agricultural Sciences National Needs Graduate and Postgraduate Fellowship Grants Program, will provide students with academic training in interdisciplinary aspects of adaptive forest management, build communication skills through structured leadership training, and provide mentoring opportunities with natural resource managers outside of academia. Candidates will emerge from the degree program well-positioned for high-ranking employment in the field of natural resource management. Candidates will be expected to develop a research project within broadly established project guidelines, on topics identified as priorities by natural resource mangers within the state of Florida. These research priorities include, but are not limited to, assessing the effects of mechanical vegetation treatment on scrub habitats, investigating ground cover restoration in flatwoods, evaluating biomass harvesting on nutrient cycling, and investigating the long-term sustainability of any uneven-aged management regimes. Interested applicants will be directed towards prospective faculty advisors with corresponding interests and expertise. Candidates are also expected to complete leadership training courses in the Florida Natural Resources Leadership Institute and develop professional relationships with a diversity of faculty, students, and resource managers involved in the fellowship program. Requirements for the Ph.D. assistantship: MS in forestry, ecology, wildlife science, natural resource conservation, environmental studies, botany, or a related field; strong quantitative skills and demonstrated writing ability; competitive GPA and GRE scores. Requirements for the M.S. assistantship: BS in forestry, ecology, wildlife science, natural resource conservation, environmental studies, botany, or a related field; strong quantitative skills and demonstrated writing ability; competitive GPA and GRE scores. Stipend for the Ph.D. assistantships: $ 24,500 annually for three years plus full tuition waiver and health insurance. Stipend for the M.S. assistantships: $ 18,500 annually for two years plus full tuition waiver and health insurance. Interested applicants should send the following: o cover letter indicating primary areas of interest within the broad field of forest resource management (i.e., silviculture, economics, fire, wildlife, biostatistics); o CV; o A statement of interest, outlining their reasons for desiring a graduate degree in the area of adaptive forest management and intended future employment; o copies of GRE scores and academic transcripts; o one letter of recommendation from a previous employer; o name, phone number, and email addressed of two additional references. Candidates must be citizens or nationals of the US. Review of applications will begin immediately. Positions are available to start in spring, summer, or fall 2010. Final candidates will be identified no later than 1 December 2009 for a start date in January 2010. For more information, contact Melissa Kreye, P.O. Box 110410, 136 Newins-Ziegler Hall, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611-0410; 352-846-0848; mkreye@ufl.edu. Posted: 9/17/09.

University of Florida: A M.S. position is available under the supervision of Dr. Christine W. Miller in the Entomology and Nematology Department. The position is funded by the NSF for two years and will begin in June of 2010. The focus of the larger NSF-funded project is the influence of natural environmental variation on the expression and evolution of ornaments, weapons, and behaviors of sexual selection. The M.S. thesis work will include one or two summertime field seasons in New Mexico and some year-round field work in Florida. The student will also conduct extensive greenhouse breeding of the insects in Florida for behavioral and morphological study. The focal research organism is a cactus bug, Narnia femorata (Hemiptera: Coreidae). Males in this species compete over territories on the fruit of prickly-pear cactus and have enlarged hind legs used in these competitions. Applicants should possess a B.A. or B.S. in Biology or a closely related field and have a strong background in evolutionary biology and behavior. Selection will be based largely on interest and enthusiasm for the research topic, academic achievements, reference letters, and previous research experience. To be considered for this position, please send a cover letter outlining your interests and research background, a curriculum vitae (including GPA and GRE scores), and contact information for three professional references (name, email, phone, address) as either a PDF or MS Word file to cwmiller@ufl.edu with “Sexual selection M.S. position” in the subject line. Informal inquiries are welcome. Review of applications will begin September 15, 2009 and will continue until September 25th, or until an outstanding candidate is found. Posted: 9/2/09.

University of Georgia/University of Alabama/Coastal Carolina University: Five graduate student assistantships (3 Ph.D. and 2 M.S.) are available as part of a newly funded project examining the responses of detritus-based stream food webs to concentrations and ratios of dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus. Two Ph.D. positions will be based at the University of Georgia and will focus on detrital carbon dynamics and responses of predatory salamanders, respectively. A third Ph.D. position will be based at the University of Alabama and will examine macroinvertebrate food web responses. Both M.S. positions will be based at Coastal Carolina University and will focus on microbial responses to N:P gradients using field and laboratory experiments. All fieldwork will be based at the Coweeta Long term Ecological Research site in Otto, North Carolina. We are looking for students with a holistic view of ecological ramifications of nutrient enrichment, strong interest in integrating a stoichiometric perspective across taxonomic groups, significant research experience and demonstrated communication skills. The positions will start in Summer or Fall 2010, with microbial positions starting as early as January 2010. The successful candidates will receive full tuition waivers and competitive stipends. For more information, contact Amy Rosemond (rosemond@uga.edu) or John Maerz (jmaerz@warnell.uga.edu) for the UGA positions, Jon Benstead (jbenstead@bama.ua.edu) for the UA position, or Vlad Gulis (vgulis@coastal.edu) for the two CCU positions. Posted: 10/13/09.

University of Hawaii at Manoa: Graduate Research Assistantship (Ph.D.) position (50% appointment) in molecular ecology/plant sciences. Funding for Ph.D. project is available through the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources (CTAHR) in the Department of Tropical Plant and Soil Sciences. This project will address potential hybridization and gene flow between agricultural crops and native species in Hawaii. The Hawaiian Islands are home to a unique and diverse assemblage of endemic plant species. Much of the native flora is either threatened or endangered, which has made the conservation of these species a priority. Due to the sensitivity of Hawaii’s botanical resources, concern has been voiced that hybridization and gene flow between agricultural crops and native species may exacerbate the precarious position of rare endemic species. Molecular markers (AFLP’s), seed viability and back-crossing will be used to quantify outcrossing compatibility and fitness of hybrids. This project primarily includes cross pollination and pollen drift assessment, therefore, experience with plant biology and cross pollination is essential. A Masters degree in a biological field and knowledge of risk assessment procedures, and interpretation of risk models is desirable but not essential. Experience with molecular genetic methods and analyses (e.g. AFLP, PCR, gel electrophoresis, automated sequencing/genotyping) is desirable but not essential. The candidate will work under the supervision of Dr. Ania Wieczorek and Dr. Cliff Morden. Starting date is in August 2010, and the salary ($25k/year) is for a 50% GRA , plus a tuition waiver and benefits. This appointment is renewable for up to three years, depending on performance and availability of funds. Applicants should provide a full CV, including previous experience, a list of undergraduate courses and grades, a maximum 1-page description of research interests, three letters of reference, and desired start date. There is no fixed application deadline, but position will be filled once a suitable candidate is found. Potential applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible. Applications should be sent (preferably by e-mail) to Dr. Ania Wieczorek (ania@hawaii.edu). In your initial contact, please send the following information: 1) a cover letter outlining your research interests and experience, 2) a detailed CV, 3) contact information for at least 2 academic referees, 4) GPAs, GRE score, and TOFEL scores (for foreign students). Posted: 9/22/09.

University of Hawaii at Manoa: Graduate Resarch Assistantship (Ph.D.) position (50% appointment) in molecular ecology / plant sciences. Funding for Ph.D. project is available through the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources (CTAHR) in the Department of Tropical Plant and Soil Sciences. This project will address potential hybridization and gene flow between agricultural crops and native species in Hawaii. The Hawaiian Islands are home to a unique and diverse assemblage of endemic plant species. Much of the native flora is either threatened or endangered, which has made the conservation of these species a priority. Due to the sensitivity of Hawaii?s botanical resources, concern has been voiced that hybridization and gene flow between agricultural crops and native species may exacerbate the precarious position of rare endemic species. Molecular markers (AFLP?s), seed viability and back-crossing will be used to quantify outcrossing compatibility and fitness of hybrids. This project primarily includes cross pollination and pollen drift assessment, therefore, experience with plant biology and cross pollination is essential. A Masters degree in a biological field and knowledge of risk assessment procedures, and interpretation of risk models is desirable but not essential. Experience with molecular genetic methods and analyses (e.g. AFLP, PCR, gel electrophoresis, automated sequencing/genotyping) is desirable but not essential. The candidate will work under the supervision of Dr. Ania Wieczorek and Dr. Cliff Morden. Starting date is flexible, preferably in January 2010, and the salary is for a 50% GRA, and includes a tuition waiver and benefits. This appointment is renewable for up to three years, depending on performance and availability of funds. Applicants should provide a full CV, including previous experience, a list of undergraduate courses and grades, a maximum 1-page description of research interests, three letters of reference, and desired start date. There is no fixed application deadline, but position will be filled once a suitable candidate is found. Potential applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible. Applications should be sent (preferably by e-mail) to Dr. Ania Wieczorek (ania@hawaii.edu). Posted: 8/10/09.

University of Idaho: We are seeking an MS student to evaluate the impacts of biochar amendments on forest soil microbial processes. The graduate student will work on a collaborative USDA Forest Service funded study evaluating impacts of removing bioenergy feedstocks from hazard fuel reduction projects for the production of bio-oil and biochar through mobile pyrolysis units. The primary focus is on the impact of biochar amendments on forest soil physical, chemical and microbial processes. The MS student should be familiar with forest soil science, as well as above and belowground processes controlling variation in forest productivity throughout the Inland Northwest. Desirable background includes experience with forest bioenergy production systems, forest soils, and assessing forest nutrition. For inquiries contact Mark Coleman (mcoleman@uidaho.edu, 208-885-7604). Applications deadline is 30 October 2009. Also see the full announcement. Posted: 9/21/09.

University of Idaho: Nine IGERT PhD Fellowships for work in Costa Rica and Idaho. Four Ph.D. research assistantships will be available to join a collaborative team working on aspects of conservation and sustainable rural livelihoods in the San Juan – La Selva Biological Corridor, a crucially important human-dominated landscape managed to provide ecological connectivity between the protected areas of southeastern Nicaragua and those of Costa Rica´s Central Volcanic Cordillera. Up to five Ph.D. research assistantships will be available to join a collaborative team working to evaluate the resiliency of social and ecological systems in the complex forested landscapes of the US northern Rockies. IGERT fellowships are only available to US Citizens and Permanent Residents. For more details and application information visit http://www.students.uidaho.edu/gradadmissions/IGERT. Application deadline: December 1st, 2009 (earlier applications are encouraged). Posted: 10/15/09.

University of Idaho: Interdisciplinary PhD Research Assistantships in Conservation Biology, Sustainable Production and Resilience of the Palouse Prairie Ecosystem. Up to five Ph.D. research assistantships will be available to join a collaborative team working on aspects of conservation of the endangered Palouse Prairie ecosystem in the context of bioregional planning in southeastern Washington State and Northern Idaho. The linked dissertation projects will work in the context of expected exurban development and sustainable agricultural production in the region. With funding from the National Science Foundation’s Integrative Graduate Education and Research Traineeship program (IGERT), the individual fellows will pursue disciplinary research important for the overall theme, and work together to identify and address interdisciplinary issues critical for development of effective planning and policy. The team will interact with members of five other IGERT-sponsored student/faculty teams pursuing similar objectives in other ecosystems in which sustainability and conservation in the face of changing conditions and pressures is desired. Soil Biogeochemistry. Seeking a highly motivated and qualified student to pursue the study of soil-plant relations and feedbacks in the endangered Palouse Prairie. The student will contribute to our understanding of resiliency in this unique ecosystem that is increasingly threatened by invasive weed species and urban sprawl. Research will focus on: 1) the importance of soil and site properties in determining the likelihood of invasion, and 2) the impact of invasive species on processes that control carbon storage and nutrient availability. In addition, the student will conduct collaborative research to examine interdisciplinary aspects of conservation of Palouse Prairie within a dynamic, human dominated landscape with team members in fields such as entomology, conservation/restoration plant ecology, virus ecology, and rural and community economics. Contact Jodi Johnson-Maynard (jmaynard@uidaho.edu). Entomology and Landscape Genetics. Seeking a highly motivated and qualified student to pursue the study of populations of native insects linked to the ecological communities specific to the Palouse Prairie, now existing exclusively as widely distributed small remnants. Target populations will be key pollinators, specialist herbivores affecting predominant plant species and other indicator species. Research will focus on: 1) determining the genetic diversity and structure of arthropod populations, 2) examining how behavioral and ecological correlates of genetic structure influence level of landscape connectivity, and 3) assessing elements required to sustain connectivity as part of conservation plans. In addition, the student will conduct collaborative research to examine interdisciplinary aspects of conservation of Palouse Prairie within a dynamic, human dominated landscape with team members in fields such as soil science, conservation/restoration plant ecology, virus ecology, and rural and community economics. Contact Sanford D. Eigenbrode (sanforde@uidaho.edu) and Lisette Waits (lwaits@uidaho.edu). Conservation/Restoration Plant Ecology. Seeking a highly motivated and qualified student to pursue restoration ecology research within the Palouse Prairie and related canyon grassland systems of Northern Idaho. The field research will develop restoration methods appropriate for a range of plant communities at various stages of secondary succession to enhance resilience of those plant communities. The outcome of the research will include development of a decision tool to assist those actively involved in restoration. Research may include: 1) sequence of introduction of native species, 2) seeding techniques, 3) invasive plant management, 3) species selection for seed mixes that may incorporate native annuals, and 4) feasibility of establishment of biological soil crust. In addition, the student will conduct collaborative research to examine interdisciplinary aspects of conservation of Palouse Prairie within a dynamic, human dominated landscape with team members in fields such as soil science, entomology, virus ecology, and rural and community economics. The student must have a strong desire for collaboration with other students within or attached to the IGERT program. Contact Tim Prather (tprather@uidaho.edu). Rural and Community Economics. Seeking a highly motivated and qualified student to pursue the study of rural community economics and social dynamics found in the Palouse Prairie region, including both patterns of decline and revitalization. The student will contribute to our understanding of patterns and perceptions affecting rural community opportunities and constraints related to the surrounding environment. Research will focus on: 1) determining the economic and social factors that contribute to forming vibrant communities, 2) examining the economic relationships embedded in community-based uses and values attached to natural resources and natural amenities, and 3) assessing social networks and forms of capitals needed to ensure community vitality and well-being. Methods that may be employed include regional general equilibrium economic modeling, social accounts modeling, capitals framework analysis, nonmarket valuation, and behavioral modeling. In addition, the student will conduct collaborative research to examine interdisciplinary aspects of conservation of Palouse Prairie within a dynamic, human dominated landscape with team members in fields such as soil science, entomology, virus ecology, and conservation/restoration plant ecology. Contact Philip Watson (pwatson@uidaho.edu) and J.D. Wulfhorst (jd@uidaho.edu). Virus Ecology and Virology. Seeking a highly motivated and qualified student to pursue the study of plant viruses and virus ecology in the endangered Palouse Prairie and surrounding agricultural landscape. Research will focus on studies to: 1) reveal the breadth of viruses in native plants and invasive species in the Palouse Prairie, 2) assess vector transmission and virus spread and their role on dynamics of virus populations in the landscape, and 3) examine the role of viruses on plant and vector fitness. The student will use a variety of sequencing and bioinformatics methods applied to field-collected material, and conduct controlled field and greenhouse experiments. In addition, the student will conduct collaborative research to examine interdisciplinary aspects of conservation of Palouse Prairie within a dynamic, human dominated landscape with team members in fields such as soil science, entomology, conservation/restoration plant ecology, and rural and community economics. Contact Nilsa Bosque-Pérez (nbosque@uidaho.edu) and Alexander Karasev (akarasev@uidaho.edu). This unique graduate education program will provide students: · Team-based interdisciplinary education, · International perspective, · Broad geographic and ecological exposure, · Participation in integrated interdisciplinary teams, · Cross-cultural experience. Requirements: Applicants must be US citizens or permanent residents of the USA. Successful applicants must have obtained an M.S. degree in a discipline of relevance to the project and will join the program to begin course work at the end of July 2010. Interviews of top applicants will be conducted on campus in Spring 2010. For more information: UI College of Graduate Studies. Posted: 9/3/09.

University of Idaho: Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education Center (CATIE); Turrialba, Costa Rica/ Volcánica Central-Talamanca Biological Corridor Team. Interdisciplinary PhD Research Assistantships in Sustainable Production, Sustainable Rural Livelihoods, and Resilience of the Volcánica Central-Talamanca Biological Corridor, a crucially important Mesoamerican landscape. Up to five Ph.D. research assistantships will be available to join a collaborative team working on aspects of sustainable production, conservation, and sustainable rural livelihoods within the Volcánica Central-Talamanca Biological Corridor, in Turrialba, Costa Rica. The linked dissertation projects will work in a region that faces a variety of natural resource management problems and where regional social and economic needs create pressure to increase ecosystem services. With funding from NSF’s IGERT program, fellows will pursue disciplinary research important for the overall theme, and work together to identify and address interdisciplinary issues critical for effective policy development, management planning, and implementation. The team will interact with members of five other IGERT-sponsored student/faculty teams pursuing similar objectives in other ecosystems in which sustainability and conservation in the face of changing conditions and pressures is desired. PhD Assistantship in Entomology and Landscape Ecology. Seeking a highly motivated and qualified student to pursue studies on communities of introduced pests and native insects in coffee agroforestry systems (CAFS). Research will focus on determining 1) how coffee management practices influence the colonization, persistence, and movement of key invasive pests in the landscape, 2) how the spatial arrangement of CAFS and forest fragments within the landscape impact the movement of agricultural pests and beneficial organisms, and 3) how trends in changing landuse patterns affect movement of pests and beneficial organisms. In addition, the student will conduct collaborative research to examine interdisciplinary aspects of conservation in the dynamic, human-dominated landscape that constitutes the corridor with team members in fields such as rural sociology, natural resource economics, soil science, and hydrology and watershed management. Contact Nilsa Bosque-Pérez (nbosque@uidaho.edu), Sanford Eigenbrode (sanforde@uidaho.edu), and Fabrice De Clerk (fdeclerck@catie.ac.cr). PhD Assistantship in Hydrology and Watershed Management. Seeking a highly motivated and qualified student to pursue the study of hydrological sciences in mixed landuse watersheds. The broader research focus will be on impacts of landuse and climate change on ecosystem services and environmental quality. As a component of the work the student will assess water infiltration and storage in tropical soils. In addition, the student will conduct collaborative research to examine interdisciplinary aspects of conservation in the dynamic, human-dominated landscape that constitutes the corridor with team members in fields such as entomology, landscape ecology, soil science, rural sociology, and natural resource economics. Contact Jan Boll (jboll@uidaho.edu) and Jeff Jones (jjones@catie.ac.cr). PhD Assistantship in Sustainable Rural Livelihoods. Seeking a highly motivated and qualified student to pursue the study of 1) rural livelihood dynamics of smallholders, and 2) to determine the extent to which livelihood dynamics may influence landuse change decisions and are shaped by market forces and the overall political-legal and institutional framework. A mix of quantitative and qualitative methods will be used to determine livelihood security and potential trade-offs between conservation and development goals, and to identify viable options for minimizing the trade-offs. As a component of the work the student will identify reactive or proactive adjustments to the livelihood strategies in response to perceived or anticipated effects of climate change. In addition, the student will conduct collaborative research to examine interdisciplinary aspects of conservation in the dynamic, human-dominated landscape that constitutes the corridor with team members in fields such as entomology, landscape ecology, hydrology and watershed management, soil science, and natural resource economics. Contact J.D. Wulfhorst (jd@uidaho.edu) and Dietmar Stoian (stoian@catie.ac.cr). PhD Assistantship in Natural Resource Economics. Seeking a highly motivated student with strong quantitative skills to pursue the study of 1) conflicts and rights-development for ecosystem services and production goods originating from forestry and other competing landuses in the biological corridor, 2) the role of civil society and communities in addressing forest tenure and other use rights in policy processes, and 3) agreement costs for achieving good governance and landscape relevance of riparian protection areas in private lands within the corridor. Other potential areas of research include 4) valuation of ecosystem’s services and natural resources, and 5) incentive compatibility of natural resource management alternatives. The research will be conducted using a variety of empirical approaches including but not limited to econometric analysis and optimization frameworks. In addition, the student will conduct collaborative research to examine interdisciplinary aspects of conservation in the dynamic, human-dominated landscape that constitutes the corridor with team members in fields such as entomology, landscape ecology, rural sociology, soil science, and hydrology and watershed management. Contact Guillermo Navarro (gnavarro@catie.ac.cr), Levan Elbakidze (lelbakidze@uidaho.edu), and Francisco Alpizar (falpizar@catie.ac.cr). PhD Assistantship in Soil Science. Seeking a highly motivated and qualified student to pursue the study of soil science. Research will focus on soil properties and processes within the context of landuse and management practices in the biological corridor. As a component of the work the student will also help develop remote soil mapping techniques for the tropics. In addition, the student will conduct collaborative research to examine interdisciplinary aspects of conservation in the dynamic, human-dominated landscape that constitutes the corridor with team members in fields such as entomology, landscape ecology, rural sociology, natural resource economics, and hydrology and watershed management. Contact Paul McDaniel (paulm@uidaho.edu) and Eduardo Somarriba (esomarri@catie.ac.cr). This unique graduate education program will provide students: · Team-based interdisciplinary education, · International perspective, · Broad geographic and ecological exposure, · Participation in integrated interdisciplinary teams, · Cross-cultural experience. Requirements: Applicants must be US citizens or permanent residents of the USA. Successful applicants must have obtained an M.S. degree in a discipline of relevance to the project and will join the program to begin course work at the end of July 2010. Interviews of top applicants will be conducted at the University of Idaho campus in Spring 2010. For more information, see UI College of Graduate Studies on the Joint Doctoral Program between UI and CATIE. Posted: 9/1/09.

University of Illinois at Chicago: Two-year NSF IGERT Fellowships in the Ecology, Management and Restoration of Integrated Human-Natural Landscapes in the LEAP ("Landscape, Ecological and Anthropogenic Processes") doctoral training program. Next year will be the fith year of the LEAP Program, a broadly interdisciplinary program with the goal of training future researchers and leaders in the ecology, management and restoration of integrated human/natural landscapes. Students earn a Ph.D. in a participating department after completing a rigorous two-year interdisciplinary training program that includes a substantial outreach component. The LEAP training program focuses on the health and vitality of ecosystems in which nature and people interact closely, and concentrates heavily on research, restoration and management programs in the greater metropolitan Chicago area. The LEAP Program involves faculty and doctoral students from the Colleges of Arts and Sciences, Engineering, and Urban Planning and Public Affairs at UIC. A major innovation of the UIC IGERT is the active participation of numerous cooperating partners in the Chicago region (Chicago Wilderness, Chicago Botanic Garden, Morton Arboretum, Field Museum, US Forest Service, US Army Corps of Engineers and the Illinois Natural History Survey). For more information about the program and how to apply, please visit our website at http://www.leap.uic.edu. Posted: 11/2/09.

University of Illinois/University of Maryland: A graduate student assistantship (MS or PhD) is available beginning in Spring or Fall 2010 as part of an NSF project that aims at understanding the influences of fire, atmospheric CO2, and climate on C4-grass abundance on the basis of paleoecological and stable-isotope analyses. The successful applicant will investigate grassland responses to environmental change at sites in East Africa and Australia, interact with scientists from several countries (US, UK, Belgium, Australia), and participate in educating the general public concerning climate change and grassland ecosystems. The student will be encouraged to design his/her research project within the overall objectives of the project. Funding is available through research and teaching assistantships. This is a collaborative research project among Dr. Feng Sheng Hu (University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign), Dr. David Nelson (University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science Appalachian Laboratory) and Dr. Ann Pearson (Harvard University). Students may choose to apply through the University of Illinois (Department of Plant Biology, Department of Geology, or the Program in Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Biology) or the Marine-Estuarine-Environmental Sciences Program at the University of Maryland, College Park. Please contact Dr. Hu (fshu@life.uiuc.edu) or Dr. Nelson (dmnelson@al.umces.edu) for more information. Posted: 10/7/09.

University of Kansas: Graduate Assistantships (M.A. or Ph.D. level) are available in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. I am seeking highly motivated students interested in experimental community ecology, grassland biodiversity and restoration. Research opportunities exist within the context of an NSF-funded study testing alternative models of plant community assembly and using grasslands as a model study system. Students will be encouraged to develop research projects related to one or more of the following related themes: community assembly, ecological succession, species coexistence and biodiversity, metacommunity dynamics, disturbance ecology, biological invasions, community and ecosystem restoration, impacts of climate change. Successful applicants are guaranteed financial support (2 years for M.A., 5 years for Ph.D). The department also provides support for travel to attend and present results at national and international meetings. Additional funds to support graduate student research are available through the departmental endowment. Positions are available for an August 2010 start date. For more information please contact: Bryan Foster, Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas 66045-2106. 785-864-4361, bfoster@ku.edu. Posted: 10/13/09.

University of Louisiana: University Doctoral Fellowships are available for entering Ph.D. students in Environmental and Evolutionary Biology for the Spring semester 2010. University of Louisiana Fellowships are funded for 3-4 years at $15,750 per 9 months (with tuition waiver), and have limited teaching responsibilities. Eligibility requirements include US citizenship (or permanent residency) or degree from a US institution. Rather than replying to this message, potential applicants are strongly encouraged to directly contact prospective advisors. Their contact information and research interests can be found at the Biology Department web site. More information is also available at our graduate program web site. The department of Biology has approximately 25 faculty members and 70 graduate students. Areas of strength include ecology, conservation biology, evolution, and marine/coastal biology. Posted: 9/9/09.

University of Maine/University of Southern Maine: Maine’s Sustainability Solutions Initiative (SSI), a partnership between the University of Maine and the University of Southern Maine, offers unprecedented opportunities for graduate students to experience a truly interdisciplinary learning experience through a $20 million, 5-year program funded by the National Science Foundation’s EPSCoR program. The SSI’s mission is to create an integrative research program and strong stakeholder partnerships to generate improved solutions to intersecting ecological, social, and economic challenges in and beyond Maine. Graduate students will participate in collaborative research experiences with interdisciplinary faculty teams focused on urbanization, forest ecosystem management, and climate change. These efforts address the dynamics of social-ecological systems with an emphasis on moving from knowledge to action. Students with backgrounds in a wide range of disciplines are encouraged to apply: e.g. social sciences, biological, earth, and chemical sciences, natural resource management, communication, engineering, education, mathematics, and more. Up to 25 Ph.D. fellowships will be awarded at the University of Maine with a substantial portion of these beginning in fall 2010. Each fellowship will include a stipend of $20-25k/yr for up to five years, a tuition waiver, subsidy for health insurance, and some funds to support thesis research. Masters degrees opportunities will be offered at the University of Southern Maine. For more information on SSI and fellowship applications, visit the website linked above. Posted: 11/2/09.

University of Maryland, College Park: PhD Graduate Research position: Stream amphibian ecology. Department of Biological Sciences. A graduate research assistantship (Ph.D.) is available for a student to conduct research on the spatial population ecology of stream salamanders. The student will be co-advised by Evan Grant at the USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center and Bill Fagan at the University of Maryland, College Park. The successful applicant will be able to propose additional research to meet his or her specific interests, provided it fits within the broader goals of the program. Applicants should have a demonstrated interest in stream ecosystems, population biology, and amphibians. Preference will be given to those with experience conducting field research on amphibians and applicants with a strong mathematical background are encouraged to apply. The project will involve fieldwork, estimation of demographic parameters from mark-recapture data and computer modeling. Applicants must possess a valid US driver's license and are expected to work both independently and collaboratively. Strong verbal, written, and computational skills are essential. Funding is available for 2 years including stipend, benefits and tuition. If interested, please forward by email your transcript, curriculum vitae, recent GRE scores, cover letter describing your research interests and career goals (2 page limit), and the names and contact information of three references to Evan Grant (ehgrant@usgs.gov). Evan H. Campbell Grant, PhD, NE Amphibian Research and Monitoring Initiative, USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, 12100 Beech Forest Rd., Laurel, MD 20708. phone: 301.497.5842 fax: 301.497.5784. Posted: 9/15/09.

University of Massachusetts - Amherst: PhD assistantship: Ecology and population genetics of brook trout in the Delaware Gap National Recreation Area The status of brook trout populations in the Delaware Gap National Recreation Area is unclear. This specific goal of this project is to provide scientific support for a brook trout management plan in the Park. The broader goal is to use information collected in the Park to contribute to a larger effort to develop hierarchical models of brook trout population persistence. Field work in the Park will include an extensive survey to identify population structure based on microsatellites and an intensive 1-year PIT tag study to estimate seasonal body growth, survival and movement. Responsibilities will include participation in the extensive field study, leading the intensive PIT tag study, and genotyping sampled fish. Beyond these responibilities, the student will have opportunities to define dissertation topics. Qualifications: MS (preferred) or BS in ecology, fisheries or genetics. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Strong quantitative skills, including familiarity with linear mixed models and hierarchical Bayesian modeling. Interest in applying scientific results to natural resources management. Stipend: Full time, $20K/year plus benefits and tuition waiver. Additional funds are available for travel and research expenses. To apply: Please send CV, transcripts (unofficial OK), and names, phone numbers and email addresses of 3 references to Ben Letcher at bletcher@nrc.umass.edu. Specify intererest in either the Organismic and Evolutionary Biology Program or the Natural Resources Conservation Department. Closing date: November 13, 2009. Posted: 10/19/09.

University of Minnesota: Graduate Research Assistantships in Silviculture and Applied Forest Ecology. The Department of Forest Resources, is seeking two Ph.D.-level graduate students examine the impacts of forest biomass harvesting on primary productivity and carbon and nutrient dynamics in regionally important forest types (aspen and northern hardwoods) within the Lake States. The students will work on one of two specific projects: 1) an assessment of the impact of biomass removal on short-and medium-term forest regeneration dynamics and stand-level biomass production or (2) quantification of the immediate impact of biomass removal on carbon cycling and nutrient availability with the incorporation of results into ecological simulation models to assess the long-term sustainability of repeated biomass harvests. For both projects, research will involve extensive field work across the northern Lake States and the student will be responsible for conducting field and lab work in support of project goals, supervising field and lab assistants, analyzing data and preparing peer-reviewed publications. In addition, students pursuing project 2 should have experience with and/or interest in ecological simulation models. The start date is somewhat flexible, but preferably the student will begin classes in Spring 2010. Each position is funded for four years from DOE/USDA. Qualifications: M.S. in ecology, forestry, silviculture, biology or a closely related field. Applicants should be able to work independently, but also cooperatively with other researchers in the lab and on the larger project. Application materials: Please send a statement of interests and goals, CV, and names and contact information for at least 3 references to Dr. Anthony D’Amato (damato@umn.edu) and/or Dr. John Bradford (jbbradford@fs.fed.us) or hard copies to 1530 Cleveland Avenue North, 115 Green Hall, St. Paul, MN 55108. Deadline for receiving applications is December 1, 2009. Posted: 10/29/09.

University of Missouri: The successful applicant will assist in monitoring and conduct data analysis to quantify water yield and peak flows in an intensively instrumented central Missouri (USA) forested, agricultural and urban watershed. The project is a focused effort to identify hydrologic mechanisms and quantify hydrologic processes governing observed water flow regimes in a multi-use urbanizing watershed. The successful applicant will be required to work collaboratively, conduct field work and aid in installation and maintenance of instruments and monitoring sites. Other duties will include data collection, processing, analysis, modeling and a quality Dissertation with subsequent manuscripts. Start date is on or before January 15th, 2010. Applicants must have completed at least one degree in natural resources, environmental sciences, hydrology, watershed hydrology, water quality, or a related field. Applicants must possess a valid US driver's license and are expected to work both independently and collaboratively. Experience in stream measurements, hydroclimatic data processing, hydrologic analysis and modeling, water quality monitoring, soil physics, GIS and computer programming are a plus. Strong verbal, written, and computational skills are essential. Applicants must be able to lift and carry equipment, pipes, instruments and tools. A highly competitive stipend is offered plus tuition and health insurance. If interested, please forward by email your transcript, curriculum vitae, recent GRE scores, recent TOEFL scores (if appropriate), cover letter, a letter describing your research interests (2 page limit), a letter describing your career goals (2 page limit), and the names and contact information of three references to: Dr. Jason A. Hubbart, Department of Forestry, University of Missouri, 203-Q ABNR Bldg, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; Tel No. (573) 884-7732; Fax: (573) 882-1979; Email: HubbartJ@Missouri.edu. Posted: 8/13/09.

University of Missouri: A MS graduate research assistant position is available in the Department of Forestry beginning January 2010 with Drs. Michael Stambaugh and Richard Guyette (Missouri Tree-Ring Laboratory) in the Department of Forestry. Research will involve developing multi-century reconstructions of fire events and analysis of vegetation dynamics in the Cross Timbers forest region of Oklahoma. The project will incorporate methodological techniques from the discipline of tree-ring research (dendrochronology). The successful applicant is expected to explore relationships among historic fires, climate, and vegetation dynamics; particularly the expansion and growth of eastern redcedar (Juniperus virginiana). This research will result in scientifically-based information in support of fire management programs. Applicants interested in this position should have an undergraduate degree in forestry, natural resources, biology, ecology, environmental sciences, or a similar field. Applicants should be capable of conducting extensive and strenuous fieldwork. Dendrochronology experience is desirable, although not required. This position includes tuition, health benefits, and stipend for 2 years that is renewable annually based on satisfactory performance. Please submit an application package that includes a cover letter, curriculum vitae, transcripts, GRE scores, and two letters of recommendation. Applications will be considered immediately and continue until the position is filled. Applicants will also apply to the Department of Forestry by 15 Oct in order to be considered for Jan 2010. See graduate admissions. Criteria for graduate admission acceptance to the Department can be found here For more information contact: Dr. Michael Stambaugh, Research Associate, 203 ABNR Building, Department of Forestry, University of Missouri - Columbia, Columbia, MO 65211. Tel: (573) 882-8841, Fax: (573) 882-1977, E-mail: stambaughm@missouri.edu. Posted: 8/11/09.

University of Missouri: Three Available Positions in Watershed Hydrology and Nutrient Cycling: A) Technician (20 – 40 hrs/week), B) Lab Manager (Full Time), C) Graduate Research Assistant (Ph.D.). Project: Hinkson Creek Watershed: Understanding Hydrologic Processes, Nutrient Cycling and Diffuse Pollutants in a Multi-Land-Use Urban Watershed. The successful applicant will investigate the flux of water and nutrients in a large intensively instrumented Central Missouri (USA) forested, agricultural and urban watershed. The project is a focused effort to establish, assess and quantify hydroclimatic and biogeochemical connectivity and transport in a multi-use urban watershed. Successful applicants will be required to work collaboratively, conduct field work and aid in installation and maintenance of instruments and monitoring sites. Other duties may include data collection, processing and analysis of data and manuscript preparation. Tentative start date is summer 2009. Applicants must have completed at least one degree in natural resources, environmental sciences, hydrology, water quality, or a related field. Applicants must possess a valid US driver's license. Experience in stream measurements, hydroclimatic data processing, hydrologic analysis and modeling, water quality monitoring, soil physics, GIS, and computer programming are a plus but not required. Strong verbal, written, and computational skills are essential. Applicants must be able to lift and carry equipment and tools. A competitive compensation package is offered including benefits (lab manager/GRA). If interested, please forward by email the following documents (as appropriate), transcript, curriculum vitae, recent GRE scores, recent TOEFL scores (if appropriate), cover letter, and the names and contact information of three references to: Dr. Jason A. Hubbart, Department of Forestry, University of Missouri, 203-Q ABNR Bldg, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; Tel No. (573) 884-7732; Fax: (573) 882-1979; Email: HubbartJ@Missouri.edu. Posted: 5/7/09, revised: 6/30/09.

University of Montana: Graduate Student Opportunity – Riparian Ecology. We seek applications for an MS student to investigate site requirements of late-seral woody riparian plants along the upper Missouri River in central Montana. The primary objective is to assess how multiple factors (e.g., water availability, soil texture and stratigraphy, livestock herbivory) affect plant species composition. In addition, successful applicants will be encouraged to develop and pursue their own, related study questions. Preferred qualifications include: a record of strong academic achievement as an undergraduate; previous coursework and interest in terrestrial plant ecology and soil science; a desire to conduct independent fieldwork in remote settings. Site access and fieldwork may require multi-day canoe trips. Funding is expected for a January 2010 start, and will include a stipend of ~$16k per year, an in-state tuition waiver (for Montana residents), and research expenses including travel and per diem. The successful candidate will be co-advised by Drs. Michael Merigliano and Cory Cleveland (College of Forestry and Conservation) at the University of Montana in Missoula. To apply: Please email the following application materials (as one document) to Dr. Cory Cleveland at cory.cleveland@umontana.edu: 1) a current resume or CV, including GPA and GRE scores (if available); 2) a letter of interest, including research interests, professional goals and prior experience; and 3) contact information, including Email addresses, of three potential references. Posted: 10/29/09.

University of Montana: One graduate assistantship (MS or PhD) is available to prospective students interested in soil biogeochemical and microbial community dynamics in recently deglaciated landscapes. The successful candidate will be expected to develop an independent project in one of the following areas: soil biogeochemistry; soil microbial ecology; or plant-microbe interactions. Motivated students with prior experience using molecular microbiological techniques are especially encouraged to apply. Applicants should have a strong record of academic excellence, prior field and/or laboratory experience, a demonstrated interest in soils or ecosystems research, and be willing to work in cold, harsh environments. Student support will include a combination of teaching/research assistantships, a stipend and a tuition waiver. Preference will be given to candidates willing to begin in summer 2020 (summer salary included), and academic positions will begin in the fall of 2010. For more information, please contact Cory Cleveland (cory.cleveland@umontana.edu), Department of Ecosystems & Conservation Sciences. Students interested in applying should email the following application materials (as a single PDF or Word document): 1) a current resume or CV, including GPA and test scores (if available); 2) a letter of interest, including research interests, professional goals and prior experience; and 3) contact information, including email addresses, of three potential references. Applications received by December 15, 2009 will be given preference, but the position will remain open until a successful candidate has been identified. Posted: 10/12/09.

University of Nevada Las Vegas: An assistantship towards a Master degree of Public Health (MPH) is available in the Department of Environmental and Occupational Health. The candidate will work with federal, state, and local government agencies, as well as other research teams to monitor the life histories of quagga mussel (Dreissena bugensis) adults and veligers in Lake Mead and address the key environmental factors affecting these invasive mussels in this largest reservoir in the US (by volume). Invasive quagga mussels were discovered in Lake Mead on January 6, 2007. It is the first known occurrence of the dreissenid species in the western United States. Now it has been found in many ecosystems in the arid southwest region. The final candidate needs to do field work to collect water and sediment samples in Lake Mead, summarize water quality data, enumerate quagga mussel veligers and adults, identify and count benthic samples, present research results in interagency meetings, and draft report to funding agencies. The funding is available for 2 years. Minimum requirements include 1) a Bachelor’s degree in Ecology, Biology, Limnology, Chemistry, Environmental Sciences, or related field; 2) good physical condition; 3) safe driving history; 4) self-motivated personality; 5) working independently and interactively with a multidisciplinary team. The position starts January 2010, depending on the availability of qualified applicant. Interested students should send CV, letter describing their qualifications, contact list of three references, and unofficial transcripts to Dr. David Wong (David.Wong@unlv.edu), Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Nevada at Las Vegas, 4505 Maryland Parkway Box 453064, Las Vegas NV 89154 (Tel: 702-895-2446/Fax: 702-895-5166). Electronic submission is preferred. The due date for application is December 7, 2009. More information: graduate studies at UNLV. Posted: 10/12/09.

University of New Brunswick: PhD student position: Plant traits and insect host-race formation. A fully funded position is available for a PhD student in the laboratory of Dr. Steve Heard, starting in fall 2009 or winter 2010. The research project involves the study of variation in plant traits, within species and between closely related species, and how they interact with insect preferences to shape the evolution of diet in insect herbivores. We will be particularly interested in trait distributions and preferences that favour the evolution of diet generalism (one insect feeds on several host plants) vs. divergence with the evolution of diet specialization (leading to evolution of a host-race complex with each race feeding on a single host plant). Our model system is the diverse community of insects feeding on the common goldenrods Solidago altissima and Solidago gigantea. The project will involve both field and laboratory work. To apply, please send (snail mail or e-mail) a letter expressing your interest and summarizing your qualifications, a current CV, undergraduate grades (an informal copy is fine; no need for an official transcript), and names and contact information for at least two references. Please address your materials to: Steve Heard, Professor and Chair, Dept. of Biology, University of New Brunswick, PO Box 4400, Fredericton, NB, E3B 5A3. sheard@unb.ca. Posted: 6/3/09.

University of New Mexico: Physiological Ecology Postdoctoral and PhD Fellowships. We seek two motivated individuals interested in employing empirical or process modeling approaches to investigate mechanisms of vegetation survival and mortality during drought. These DOE-Program for Ecosystem Research funded positions are within the Biology Department at UNM. The postdoc position can start March 2010, and the PhD position can start June 2010. The project is multi-disciplinary and multi-institution, and utilizes replicated, ecosystem-scale manipulations of precipitation in a piñon-juniper woodland at the Sevilleta Long Term Ecological Research site. As of 2009, the treatments are in their second year and micromet, water use, and carbon balance measurements are in their third year. We utilize field, laboratory and model-based techniques on plant water relations, carbon balance and stable isotopes. Candidates with interests in any of the above research foci are invited to apply. Results from this work will be valuable to fundamental understanding of plant biology and climate as well as for application to climate change simulations. Necessary Skills: Postdoc Applicants should have strengths in any of the above-mentioned research foci with demonstrated ability to publish peer-reviewed papers; effective written and oral communication skills; willingness to work in a team environment; and a Ph.D. pending or received within the last five years. Desired skills include experience modeling; measuring plant hydraulics, gas exchange, carbohydrates, or stable isotopes; field experience and knowledge of ecology. Necessary Skills: PhD Student: Similar to postdoc but with lowered requirements, e.g. less proof of publication capability is needed. Knowledge of biology, ecology, physics, or related fields is desirable. For more information please see the project webpage (below) and contact Will Pockman (pockman@unm.edu) and Nate McDowell (mcdowell@lanl.gov). To be considered for the position, please send a resume and a very short statement of your future research goals to Dr.'s Pockman and McDowell. Posted: 8/12/09.

University of North Carolina Wilmington: Graduate Research Assistantship in Tropical Forest Management Ecological Sustainability Indicators. Department of Environmental Studies. We are looking for a highly motivated Graduate student to help us conduct research on the relations existing between remote sensing derived data on forest structural trends, current biodiversity present in managed and natural tropical forest areas and management practices in Costa Rica. The student will work on the biodiversity component of the project. She or He will spend 2 summers in Costa Rica doing field work in the Sarapiqui region. Biodiversity surveys will include vegetation structure, dung beetles, butterflies and Birds. Previous birding experience is highly desired as well as knowledge of Spanish. This is a joint project with the Geographic Information Science Center of Excellence (GIScCE) of South Dakota State University. Funding from NASA goes until 2012. Other partner institutions include The Fundacion para el Desarrollo de la Cordillera Volcanica Central (FUNDECOR) and The Tropical Agronomic Research and Higher Education center (CATIE). Applicants should email their CV’s to Naikoa Aguilar-Amuchastegui (aguilaramuchasteguin@uncw.edu) and fill their online applications before October 15th 2009. Posted: 9/1/09.

University of North Texas: I am seeking MS and PhD students to join my lab in the Department of Biological Sciences and Institute of Applied Science beginning January 2010. Research topics are open but should closely match my own interests in aquatic community and ecosystem ecology. Potential themes of investigation include: effects of food web structure and biodiversity on ecosystem function; effects of altered hydrology/drought on aquatic food webs; responses of aquatic communities to environmental change; multiple predator effects in aquatic ecosystems. Stream and pond mesocosms are available at UNT for experimental research, and potential field sites include Great Plains streams and reservoirs (TX, USA), large tropical river systems (PR, Brazil), and coastal lagoon complexes (RS, Brazil). Successful applicants will demonstrate a solid background in ecology and related disciplines, field experience in aquatic ecosystems, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a larger research team. Students are expected to present research findings at professional conferences, and publish in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Support will be provided by a combination of teaching and research assistantships. I encourage you to send me an e-mail if you are interested in pursuing graduate studies in my lab. In your e-mail, please indicate what potential research topics you might like to pursue, and briefly tell me about your previous research experience. Attach any representative publications you may have, as well as a current CV that includes standardized test scores, evidence of academic achievement and relevant training/experience. Please do not apply to the graduate program at this time. I will request additional information, letters of recommendation and an interview before graduate applications are submitted. Interested students should contact me as soon as possible, but before October 15, 2009. Please be aware of additional requirements and deadlines for acceptance to the graduate program. David J. Hoeinghaus, Ph.D. (David.Hoeinghaus@unt.edu, +1 (940) 565-2228). Posted: 9/18/09.

University of Oklahoma: We seek candidates for multiple (4-6) positions as post-doctoral fellows, graduate students, and computer software engineers to develop data assimilation techniques and cyber-environment to facilitate ecological forecasting in areas of biogeochemical and ecosystem sciences. The field of ecology has been rapidly transformed to a data-rich scientific endeavor due to fast development and implementation of observatory networks. There is an unprecedented demand to convert raw data from the observatory networks into ecologically meaningful information products with the aim of accelerating advances in our fundamental knowledge of ecological processes, testing ecological theory, forecasting changes in ecological services, educating teachers and students, and supporting decision making. To facilitate transformational research in the data-rich era, the NSF-funded projects are to develop software systems to assimilate massive data into process-based models toward ecological forecasting. We are recruiting post-doctoral fellows and graduate students to develop and apply data assimilation techniques to ecosystem and biogeochemical research using data collected from global change experiments, AmeriFlux sites, satellites, and other spatially distributed measurements. We are also recruiting software engineers to develop cyber environment to weave hardware, software, and collaboration and integration environment together so as to enable data assimilation with models towards ecological forecasting. Researchers will be expected to work collaboratively within a large, interdisciplinary research group. More information about our group: http://bomi.ou.edu/luo/. Requirements for the post-doctoral positions include: (1) a PhD in ecology, computer sciences, statistics, mathematics, or related areas, (2) demonstrated experience with advanced statistical analysis and/or modeling techniques, (3) strong quantitative skills together with basic ecology training, and 4) high motivation and ability to interact and collaborate with other scientists. Requirements for the graduate assistantships are consistent with those for graduate admission at the University of Oklahoma plus enthusiasm for and commitment on ecological research. Requirements for the software engineering positions include training in computer sciences, experience and knowledge on workflow and cyber-infrastructure. To apply for those positions, please contact: Dr. Yiqi Luo, Department of Botany and Microbiology, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK 73019, email: yluo@ou.edu or Dr. Xuhui Zhou, email: zxuhui14@ou.edu. Posted: 8/11/09.

University of Oxford: The form and function of dynamic sociality in a wild bird population - DPhil (PhD) project in Evolutionary Ecology/Information Engineering. Supervisors: Prof Ben Sheldon, Dr Teddy Wilkin, Prof Steve Roberts. All organisms display social behaviour of some form, but the extent and duration of this behaviour varies tremendously between species and over life cycles within species: understanding what causes variation in social behaviour has been a major research theme in biology for decades. Until recently, very little of this work has focussed on the type of social organisation that typifies many animals, where social groups are highly dynamic, with frequent changes in their composition, and where associations between individuals vary in their strength and consistency. However, there is currently great interest in applying techniques from network analysis to animal social behaviour. This project exploits a large ongoing study of a wild bird population that has been a model system in ecology and evolutionary biology (the great tit *Parus major* at Wytham Woods near Oxford), in which thousands of individuals are marked with transponders, and a grid of recording locations generates hundreds of thousands of records each winter. The main aims of the project are to use these data to generate biological insight into social behaviour in birds, in a social network context. The first aim of this project will be: (1) for the student to develop methods for identifying individual groups from the complex temporally and spatially-structured data set based on feeding associations. Having done this the next aims will be to (2) explore the stability of groups over time, and (3) quantify the structure of groups in terms of the number, individual characteristics and relatedness of their constituents. Following these steps, the project will: (4) develop social networking techniques which integrate temporal changes in the strengths of relationships between individuals, and (5) determine the consequences, in terms of foraging and breeding performance, of social structure at the individual, group and population levels. Finally, (6) the project will explore how group stability changes in response to changes in the environment, including factors such as food availability. The ideal candidate for this post is a physical scientist with a first degree in engineering, computer science, physics or mathematics, a strong quantitative background, and a desire to use these skills to understand complex biological problems, but biologists with a very strong quantitative background are also encouraged to apply. The supervisors are skilled in ecology and behaviour (Sheldon and Wilkin) and information engineering (Roberts) and the project will work very much at the interface of these fields, as part of two large, research active groups, see: Edward Grey Institute of Field Ornithology and Pattern Analysis & Machine Learning Research Group. The stipend is £16k per annum. This studentship is open to candidates from the UK and the EU/EEA and Switzerland (i.e, to any student who would not be classed as paying fees at the international student level). Informal inquiries, accompanied with a CV, to Prof Ben Sheldon (ben.sheldon@zoo.ox.ac.uk). The deadline for applications is 9 November 2009, and the successful candidate would be expected to start by January 2010. Posted: 9/14/09.

University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez: The last decade has seen the arrival and rapid propagation of Asian clam (Corbicula fluminea) in reservoirs of Puerto Rico. Studies with other filter feeding zooplankton suggest that high density populations of these invasive mussels may lead to an increase in the abundance of toxic cyanobacteria strains to levels that can compromise the safety of the potable water. An assistantship towards a Masters of Science degree is available in the Department of Crops and Agroenvironmental Sciences to study phytoplankton community structure in reservoirs in Puerto Rico. The candidate will work with a multidisciplinary team to establish the effect of Asian clam populations on phytoplankton community structure and cyanotoxin production in reservoirs of Puerto Rico. This work will include field sampling, mesocosm studies, and taxonomic identification of phytoplankton. Student will be funded primarily on research assistantships including summer support. Funding is guaranteed for 2 years. Field work is required and field conditions are hot, sunny, and physically demanding. Minimum requirements include: Bachelor's degree in ecology, limnology, biology, chemistry, or related field, 3.2 GPA, good physical condition, driver's license, and preferably bilingual in Spanish and English (classes will be taught in Spanish). Students should be punctual, self motivated, and be able to work independently. US citizenship is not required, but non citizens should have or be able to obtain a student visa. Position starts in January 2010 depending on availability of quality applicants. Interested students should send CV, letter explaining their qualifications (in English), contact details for three references, and unofficial transcripts to Dr. David Sotomayor-Ramírez (david.sotomayor@upr.edu) and Dr. Stefanie Whitmire (stefanie.whitmire@upr.edu), Depto. Cultivos y Ciencias Agroambientales, University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez. Electronic submission preferred. Deadline: October 15, 2009. Fax: 787-265-3851 and phone 787-832-4040 x 2092. More information: graduate studies at UPRM. Posted: 10/7/09.

University of Rhode Island: I invite applications from motivated students for either masters or doctoral work beginning in fall 2010 in the field of terrestrial community ecology. Full funding for 1-2 students will be provided either as research or teaching assistantships, depending on student background and availability. Applicants should be independent, highly motivated, and possess some research and/or field experience. Research in my lab generally addresses predator-prey and/or herbivore-plant interactions; specific research topics have included the population-level consequences of non-lethal interactions between predators and their prey and the impact of interactions between invasive species on eastern forests. Detailed information about the lab is available at http://cels.uri.edu/preisserlab/. Prospective students should contact me (Evan Preisser, preisser@uri.edu) and provide a short description of research interests and accomplishments, a CV (including GPA and GRE scores), and contact information for three references. I will contact suitable candidates to discuss potential graduate projects and to set up an interview. Formal department review of applications will begin February 1, 2010, but interested students should contact me well before the application deadline. Posted: 10/20/09.

University of Rhode Island: Graduate Student Assistantship. I am seeking an individual with experience in soil science, wetlands, freshwater littoral habitats, or invasive species to work on a study aimed at investigating relationships between soil properties and the use and management of freshwater littoral habitats. The goal of the study is to develop a soil-based interpretive tool that can be used to assess the condition of the shallow freshwater littoral habitats for use, management, and conservation. The primary focus will be on relationships between invasive species and soil characteristics, carbon accounting, nutrient sinks, and sedimentation rates. Responsibilities of the graduate assistant will be to: inventory the soils and habitat of a range of shallow freshwater littoral environments; to sample and characterize the soils in these settings; and to evaluate these soil properties relative to invasive species, carbon storage and sequestration, nutrient levels, and sedimentation rates. Please send résumé, college transcripts, and statement of interest to: Dr. Mark Stolt, Department of Natural Resources Science, One Greenhouse Road, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, 02881, phone 401-874-2915, fax 401-874-4561, mstolt@uri.edu URI’s Department of Natural Resources Science conducts research in pedology, soil-environmental science, soil ecology, wetland and watershed science, landscape ecology, GIS, and wildlife and environmental management. Posted: 10/2/09.

University of Rhode Island: A research assistantship is available at the M.Sc. or Ph.D. level in the Department of Natural Resources Science to study the distribution, abundance, and movement patterns of selected seaducks in offshore habitats in southern New England during the bird’s winter and staging periods. Satellite radiotelemetry will be combined with extensive boat-based and aerial-based surveys to determine (a) current distribution and movement patterns of seaducks in Rhode Island’s nearshore waters, offshore waters, and Narragansett Bay, (b) the temporal pattern of these movements in relation to key offshore habitats, (c) the route and destination of sea ducks departing Rhode Island and migrating to their breeding areas, and (d) how daily movement patterns and habitat use of seaducks affects the designation of offshore areas suitable for wind turbine placement. This study is part of a larger university-state agency collaborative effort to designate offshore areas suitable for wind turbine placement while attempting to minimize or avoid impacts to key natural resources. Qualifications: Only hard-working, motivated, intelligent, good-natured persons interested in seaducks need apply. Applicants must have completed an undergraduate degree in animal/wildlife biology or ecology, earned at least a 3.2 GPA, must have taken the GRE, and must have excellent oral and written communication skills. Field experience with seabird capture and handling, techniques for censusing seabirds, radiotelemetry, and GIS is highly desirable. Experience with quantitative analysis and field research is required. Ability to work collaboratively and to supervise research assistants and undergraduates working in the field is also required. Stipends are approx. $20k/yr and tuition is paid. Starting date is January 2010 (earlier employment as a research associate is possible). To apply submit the following: a letter stating your qualifications and research interests, a resume or CV, college transcripts, GRE scores, and 3 letters of reference by no later than 15 October 2009 (early application is encouraged) to: Dr. Scott R. McWilliams & Dr. Peter Paton, Dept. Natural Resources Science, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881. 401-874-7531; srmcwilliams@uri.edu. Posted: 9/23/09.

University of Rhode Island: The Department of Natural Resources Science is recruiting a Ph.D. student who will conduct research in habitat suitability assessment and predictive modeling using remote sensing data and GIS analysis. The research will focus on the relationship between ecological conditions of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail (A.T.) and factors such as land-use and land-cover change and climate change. The graduate student should have a background in remote sensing and GIS and an interest in biodiversity, wildlife habitats and management. The assistantship is provided by a NASA-funded project that is developing a decision support system for monitoring, reporting and forecasting the ecological conditions of the A.T. This decision support system will integrate multi-platform remote sensing data, Terrestrial Observation and Prediction System (TOPS) models, and in situ measurements for understanding the ecological conditions of the A.T. land and for conservation of biodiversity. Expected starting date: Spring 2010 semester. The graduate student will work under the supervision of Dr. Y.Q. Wang. Please submit a letter of interest, CV, transcripts and GRE scores and the names of 3 references to Professor Y.Q. Wang (yqwang@uri.edu). Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until filled. Posted: 6/11/09, revised: 10/26/09.

University of Southern Mississippi: M.S. Graduate Research Assistantship in Coastal and Habitat Ecology. The Department of Coastal Sciences at The University of Southern Mississippi is seeking highly qualified students for M.S. studies in coastal habitats and plant communities. The department is located at the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory in Ocean Springs, MS. The successful candidate(s) will study saltmarsh habitats, or seagrasses and seaweeds in Mississippi Sound. The ability to do field work and work off small boats is a must. SCUBA experience is a plus. Additional skills needed include good communications, strong writing and mathematical background, and ability to work well in a team. Successful candidate(s) must possess a B.S. in biology or a related science and a minimum GPA of 3.0. The GRE (verbal and quantitative) and TOEFL (for non-native English speakers) are required. Salary starts at $1,600/mo and includes a tuition waiver and medical benefits. Interested individuals should contact: Dr. Patrick Biber, University of Southern Mississippi, Gulf Coast Research Laboratory, 703 East Beach Drive, Ocean Springs, MS 39564. tel: +1 (228) 872 4200, email: patrick.biber@usm.edu. Posted: 8/14/09.

University of Southern Mississippi: Deadline for applications is 15 September 2009. Applicants are invited for one highly motivated Ph.D. student (start date Jan. 2010) in the lab of Donald Yee. This position will specifically focus on the ecology of mosquitoes and will contribute to on-going projects in the lab. Past research topics have emphasized larval competition, invasion ecology, species diversity, and life-history trade-offs. We use a combination of field sampling and field and laboratory experiments to understand what regulates populations and communities of mosquitoes in nature. We also use mosquitoes to answer basic ecological questions. Other research topics may be considered, although mosquitoes communities or populations should be a focus. General requirements: Masters degree or equivalent experience. Prior field experience and coursework in ecology, entomology, and statistics is preferred. Preference will be given to applicants who have had experience with mosquitoes. Funding: will be available through a combination of teaching and research assistantships. I also expect students to pursue other funding sources (NSF DDIG, EPA STAR, Sigma Xi, etc.). Full tuition grants are provided. Basic and major medical health coverage is provided to fulltime graduate students in good standing academically. Support for students will be provided to participate in scientific meetings. Entrance requirements: Although the Department of Biological Sciences does not have a minimum set of scores to be eligible for entrance into the graduate program, potential applicants should expect to have a minimum GPA of 3.00 and have taken the GRE before application (v+q scores should exceed 1000). More information on admission. To inquire, submit (via e-mail) - cover letter with a brief (~ one page) review of your research experience - interests and goals - CV - contact for three academic references. Send to: Donald A. Yee (donald.yee@usm.edu). Posted: 6/22/09.

University of Texas at Arlington: A Graduate Research Assistantship (GRA) and a Postdoctoral Scientist position (one year, possibility for renewal up to three years) are available to participate in two arctic ecology research projects with field work based at Toolik Field Station in northern Alaska, the site of the Arctic Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) project. Both positions are in the plant ecology laboratory of Dr. Laura Gough at UT-Arlington and could begin as early as January 2010. Briefly, the projects are: 1. investigating how moist acidic tundra communities above- and belowground respond to release from nutrient limitation in terms of species compositional and functional changes and how such changes affect carbon cycling (ongoing collaboration with John Moore, Colorado State University) 2. determining how migratory songbird species are affected by availability of shrub habitat across several sites on the North Slope to predict how ongoing changes in vegetation associated with climate warming may affect bird mating success and population viability [new collaboration with Natalie Boelman (Columbia University) and John Wingfield (University of California, Davis)]. Applicants must be in good physical condition, be able to hike over uneven terrain carrying heavy packs, and be available to spend most field seasons (up to three months) in a remote location. To apply for either position, please e-mail a c.v., names and contact information for three references, and a brief statement of interest to gough@uta.edu. GRA applicants can find information relevant to our graduate program at: http://www.uta.edu/biology/graduate/. Review of applications will begin mid-October and continue until the positions are filled. Posted: 9/15/09.

University of Texas at Austin: Opportunity for graduate training in biofuels, genomics, experimental ecology, and climate change research. The Hawkes, Juenger and Keitt Labs in the Section of Integrative Biology invite prospective students to apply for graduate studies under the nexus of a newly-funded 4-year project exploring switchgrass (Panicum) ecological and evolutionary responses to climate change, funded by NSF. The project will blend genomic, experimental and modeling approaches to address spatial and temporal variation in switchgrass biomass production across North America. Switchgrass is a biofuel candidate species already in production. The ideal student would engage in an interdisciplinary program of training and research taking advantage of the breadth of expertise available among the participating labs. Co-advising arrangements are strongly encouraged. Research assistantships will be available to qualified applicants, although it is expected that students would also gain teaching experience though teaching assistantships during part of their tenure. Students may apply through UT's graduate programs in Ecology, Evolution and Behavior (EEB), Plant Biology, Cellular & Molecular Biology (CMB), or Computational Sciences, Engineering and Mathematics (CSEM). Interested students should contact one or more of the PI's as soon as possible (see links above). Please include a PDF file with a CV, GRE scores and a statement of research interests. Posted: 9/17/09.

University of Victoria: A graduate student position (MSc/PhD) in paleoecology is available to start in the summer or fall of 2010. The main approach used in my lab is to examine ecological dynamics using the geological record and techniques such as pollen analysis that provide a long-term perspective on vegetation dynamics. Research focuses on the development and dynamics of vegetation communities since the last glaciation and the climatic and non-climatic factors that drive vegetation dynamics. The main geographical focus of the lab is the Pacific coast of Canada, a region characterized today by temperate rainforest. There are a number of specific research projects available but students are also encouraged to develop their own projects. Applicants should be highly-motivated, with a strong background in community ecology and/or Quaternary geology and excellent academic standing. Guaranteed funding is available through a combination of fellowships, research assistantships, and teaching assistantships. Interested students are encouraged to contact Terri Lacourse, Department of Geography, as soon as possible via email (tlacours@uvic.ca) and to send a CV/resume, an unofficial copy of university transcripts, and a brief statement of scientific interests. Posted: 10/19/09.

University of Virginia: I expect to have two graduate student fellowships (M.S. or Ph.D. level) available starting Fall 2010 in the Department of Environmental Sciences. Successful candidates may choose their area of research; however, preference will be given to those with interests in spatial ecology, plant-insect interactions, invasion biology, global change ecology, or agroecology. Projects currently underway or under development in my laboratory include investigation of spatiotemporal patterns of gypsy moth outbreaks in the northeastern United States, effects of agricultural landscape structure on bee behavior and pollination rates, and climate-change effects on the temporal population dynamics of forest-defoliating insects. Successful candidates will be based in Charlottesville. The university has research stations throughout the state (e.g., Blandy Experimental farm, Mountain Lake Biological Station, The Virginia Coast Reserve, and The Virginia Forest Research Facility) that provide access to a diversity of ecosystems. Salary for these positions will be provided through a Blandy Experimental Farm Graduate Fellowship (50%) and a half-time teaching assistantship (50%). For more information, contact me by email: Kyle J. Haynes (haynes@virginia.edu), Associate Director, The Blandy Experimental Farm, Research Assistant Professor, Department of Environmental Sciences. Posted: 8/19/09.

University of Washington: A highly motivated PhD student is needed to pursue doctoral research as part of a collaborative project that aims to understand how flow intermittence and landscape connectivity govern the spatial and temporal dynamics of native (threatened) and non-native amphibians in intermittent and ephemeral streams of southern Arizona. The student will examine how hydrology, hydrologic connectivity and other riverine characteristics influence the demography (e.g., distribution, abundance) and population genetics (e.g. gene flow, structure, diversity) of amphibians across a gradient of flow permanence, and explore the potential impacts of climate change. The successful applicant will be advised by Dr. Julian Olden (School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences, University of Washington), and will work closely with researchers from Oregon State University, State University of New York, and partners in Arizona including AZ Game and Fish Department and The Nature Conservancy. Qualifications: MS in ecology, zoology, or related field with a competitive GPA and GRE scores. Priority will be given to applicants with previous experience studying amphibians (biology, ecology, and sampling techniques), quantitative skills, and/or a background in landscape genetics (no experience using molecular techniques is needed). A demonstrated ability to publish in peer-reviewed journals and experience conducting research in arid and semi-arid ecosystems is preferred, but not required. Stipend will be $21,400 annually plus benefits and tuition. Start date: Fall 2010 (Summer 2010 preferred). To apply email a cover letter that addresses your interest and experience, curriculum vitae, unofficial transcripts, and contact information for at least three references to: Dr. Julian Olden, School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences, University of Washington at olden@u.washington.edu. Screening of applicants will occur prior to the SAFS application deadline on December 15, 2009. UW is an equal opportunity employer and actively seeks diversity among its employees. See http://www.fish.washington.edu/graduates/ for more details regarding admission. Posted: 9/3/09.

University of Washington: Opportunities are available for graduate studies at the masters and PhD levels in microbial ecology in the School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences. Students with interests in community ecology, evolutionary ecology and ecosystem processes are especially encouraged to apply. Our group addresses questions regarding spatial and temporal patterns of the microbial diversity and community composition. We are also interested in understanding the link between microbial communities and biogeochemical processes. Please see the Horner-Devine lab website for a description of ongoing projects. Students should have some experience and background with ecology, molecular tools and statistics. A successful candidate should be hard working, independent, and creative, have a strong verbal and written communication skills, and demonstrate the ability to work well in a team. Students will be admitted through the School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences. The application deadline is 15 December 2009 (1 November 2009 for international applicants). More details. Interested students should send a CV/resume, brief statement of past research experience and future research interests and GRE scores (if available) to Claire Horner-Devine (mchd@uw.edu ). Posted: 8/26/09.

University of Windsor: There are immediate opportunities for qualified graduate students (MSc & PhD) to work in Dan Heath’s Evolutionary & Conservation Genetics lab at the Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research (GLIER) at the University of Windsor (Ontario, Canada). Projects include investigating the role of gene transcription evolution in local adaptation in BC salmon, evolutionary ecology and conservation of the Eastern Sand Darter, a threatened species in Ontario, and a population and quantitative genetic analysis of migratory behaviour in salmon and trout. Students will have opportunities for field and lab work, and will be expected to attend and present at national and international conferences. Contact Dr. Heath at (519) 253-3000 (ext 3762) dheath@uwindsor.ca. Posted: 6/30/09.

University of Wisconsin-Madison: A graduate Research Assistantship will potentially become available with Don Waller’s research group in Summer or Fall 2010. The RA will participate in developing a state-wide native plant monitoring program aimed at quantifying deer impacts and abundances and assessing the impacts of climate change, pervasive habitat modification, and shifts in forest and land management. She/he should be familiar with plant identification and ecological survey methods and interested in statistics. The Research Assistant will work closely with a deer impacts research consortium whose members include local, state, and federal agencies, NGOs, and researchers from multiple institutions and departments. In addition to research duties, the RA will work closely with these partners and citizen scientists to foster this collaborative effort including creating a web page to share protocols, data, maps, and results. Those interested should familiarize themselves with the group’s research and consider which UW graduate program is most attractive among Botany, Zoology, and Environment and Resources. They may also be interested in the research proposal submitted to the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation that may support this position. Funding of this position is contingent on receiving grant support. To inquire about this opportunity, please send an e-mail and curriculum vitae to Don Waller (dmwaller@wisc.edu). Posted: 11/2/09.

University of Wisconsin, Madison: Evolutionary Ecology of Plant-Herbivore Interactions. A Graduate Research Assistantship (M.S. - Ph.D. or Ph.D. only) is available for work with the research groups of Rick Lindroth and Eric Kruger. Funded by a new, five-year NSF grant, this research addresses genetic, ontogenetic and environmental factors that influence aspen defense (chemical resistance, tolerance, escape) against mammalian herbivores (e.g., deer). Primary objectives of the work are to: 1) characterize aspen chemical defense traits, 2) assess costs/benefits of resistance, tolerance and escape, and 3) evaluate the selective impact of browsing on the genetic structure of defense traits in an experimental population. Applicants must be interested in investigating both the chemical and population genetics aspects of plant-herbivore interactions. Applicants should pursue admission to the graduate program in Zoology (Ecology), Forest and Wildlife Ecology, or Botany. Highly motivated individuals with superior academic credentials and strong communication skills are encouraged to apply. Well-developed interpersonal skills are essential. Candidates must be able to work independently as well as part of a collaborative research team. Stipend/benefits: 50% Research Assistantships currently provide a stipend of $20k (12 mo.), tuition waiver, and excellent medical/dental health plans. Position available beginning in summer or fall of 2010. Inquiries: Send preliminary e-mail letter of inquiry, describing research interests and academic qualifications, to: Dr. Rick Lindroth (Lindroth@wisc.edu). Posted: 10/21/09.

University of Wisconsin-Madison: PhD Assistantship, Forest Ecology. We invite applications for a graduate research assistantship focused on the impacts of forest biomass harvesting on soil carbon and nutrient cycling. The student will join a team of collaborators from UW-Madison, University of Minnesota, University of Missouri, and USFS to provide a regional assessment of the environmental sustainability of intensive biomass removal from regionally important forest types (aspen and northern hardwoods) within the Lake States. We have proposed to use a series of field experiments throughout the region combined with modeling to assess the effects of intensive utilization and removal of woody biomass on forest biodiversity (plant, microbe, and wood decay fungi) and productivity. The graduate research assistant will be based at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Dept. of Forest & Wildlife Ecology, and supervised by Dr. David Mladenoff and Dr. Jodi Forrester. For more information on the lab see: http://landscape.forest.wisc.edu. Within the larger project, the student will be responsible for developing a PhD study in the area of how biomass removal in the short- and medium-term affects soil nutrient cycling, carbon, and microbial diversity. This involves conducting both field and lab work in support of the project goals, supervising field and lab assistants, analyzing data and preparing peer-reviewed publications. The start date is somewhat flexible, but preferably the student will begin classes in Spring 2010. Position is funded for four years from DOE/USDA. Salary is $20k plus health insurance. Qualifications: M.S. Biology, Forestry, or related field. Student is expected to have strong interests in ecology, forestry, soils and biogeochemistry. Applicants should be able to work independently, but also cooperatively with other researchers in the lab and on the project. Application materials: Please send a statement of interests and goals, CV, and names and contact information for at least 3 references to: Dr. David Mladenoff, djmladen@wisc.edu. Apply by October 31, 2009 for full consideration, but open until filled. Posted: 10/12/09.

University of Wisconsin-Madison: This is an announcement for an opening for a postdoc or PhD research assistant in the area of forest ecosystem modeling. Probably postdoc preferred, but it could be a grad RA for someone with good skills. The work would entail using a suite of different forest ecosystem process models to assess forest productivity and C and N dynamics in the northern Wisconsin. There may also be involvement on related modeling projects focused on climate change effects, bioenergy, and wildlife habitat. For the main work in this project, we will compare model output, given models that differ in dynamics and mechanisms simulated, to evaluate scenarios of intensive biomass harvesting, different soil types, natural disturbances, and pests. Models may include LANDIS-II, PnET, BGC, or others. Some, like LANDIS, have detailed spatial dynamics and individual species. Others are non-spatial, and have mechanistic detail in other dynamics. We are primarliy interested not in model comparisons per se, but comparing output using different modeling approaches, and identifying optimal application situations for these different modeling approaches. Cooperators are US Forest Service Northern Region, and Wisconsin DNR. Desired start is from July to Sept. Intended period is 3 years. To apply, please send via email a letter, complete cv, and list of three references. David Mladenoff (djmladen@wisc.edu), Dept. of Forest & Wildlife Ecology. Posted: 6/25/09.

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee: Ph.D. Student Openings in Tropical Ecology. The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is building a strong ecology program and offers many opportunities for motivated Ph.D. students. Right now we have opportunities to join our Tropical Community Ecology Lab in the Department of Biological Sciences. We currently have several ongoing research projects in the Republic of Panama focusing on understanding the mechanistic basis of plant distribution, plant competition (particularly between lianas and trees), and forest regeneration. Competitive candidates will have a BS or MS degree, a solid foundation in ecology (ecological field experience is a plus), superior writing ability, and should be interested in working in tropical forests in Panama. Our lab currently consists of 2 post-docs, several full-time field technicians, and 4 graduate students. Two students will graduate in 2010 and we plan to fill those positions. Students should plan to apply in Fall 2009 to begin in Fall 2010. Please contact Dr. Stefan Schnitzer (schnitzer@uwm.edu) for more information and prior to applying for admittance into the program. Posted: 9/16/09.

University of Wyoming: Ph.D. Assistantships in Physiological/Ecosystem Ecology and Soil Science/Biogeochemistry. We seek two motivated Ph.D. students to conduct graduate research starting in January or May, 2010 on Rocky Mountain forests. Our interdisciplinary project investigates the consequences of beetle-induced tree mortality on the interactions between ecosystem structure and function, successional processes, energy partitioning and water, carbon and nitrogen cycling. One student will be operating at the intersection of physiological and ecosystem ecology. This student will be given the opportunity to gain or enhance key skills including eddy covariance, energy balance, sap flux, stable isotopes and plant, soil and ecosystem gas exchange. The other student will be investigating biogeochemical consequences of the outbreak by evaluating interactions among the carbon (including methane), water and nitrogen cycles. In addition to participating in the skills above, this student will also enhance or learn key skills in soil biogeochemistry, litter decomposition, microbial processes, trace gas emissions and understory vegetation analysis. Students with a background in biology, ecology, soil science or appropriate engineering, preferably with a MS degree, and strong quantitative and analytical skills, should apply by November 30. UW is ideally situated in close proximity to varied ecosystems of the Rocky Mountains with easy access to outdoor recreation, and only 2 hours from Denver, CO. Students can apply to the PhD Program in Ecology or Botany or Soil Science. Direct questions and application materials (resume, unofficial transcripts and GRE scores, and research objectives) to Brent Ewers (beewers@uwyo.edu), Elise Pendall (pendall@uwyo.edu) or Urszula Norton (unorton@uwyo.edu). Posted: 10/21/09.

Utah State University: The White Lab has an opening for a graduate student with interests in Macroecology, Community Ecology, or Ecological Theory/Modeling. Active areas of research in the White lab include broad scale patterns of biodiversity and body size, dynamics of ecological communities, and the use of sensor networks for studying ecological systems. We use computational, mathematical, and advanced statistical methods in much of our work, so students with an interest in these kinds of methods are encouraged to apply. Background in these quantitative techniques is not necessary, only an interest in learning and applying them. While students interested in one of the general areas listed above are preferred, students are encouraged to develop their own research projects depending upon their interests. Graduate students in the White lab are funded through a combination of research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and fellowships. Students interested in pursuing a Ph.D. are preferred, though exceptional students interested in a M.S. will be considered. Utah State University has an excellent graduate program in ecology with over 50 faculty and 80+ graduate students across campus affiliated with the USU Ecology Center. Additional information about the position and USU. If you are still interested after checking out the website you should contact me (Dr. Ethan White) directly at epwhite@biology.usu.edu. Please send a CV, GPA, GRE scores (if available), and a brief description of your general research interests. For full consideration, formal applications should be submitted by January 1st, 2009. Posted: 10/22/09.

Utah State University: The Ernest Lab has an opening for a Ph.D student in the general areas of Community Ecology or Macroecology to start fall 2010. Active areas of research in the Ernest lab include desert ecology, long-term dynamics of community properties, and the role of body size in the ecology and life-history of mammals. While students interested in one of the general areas listed above are preferred, students are free to develop their own research projects depending upon their interests. Graduate students in the Ernest lab are funded through a combination of research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and fellowships. Utah State has an excellent graduate program in ecology with over 50 faculty and 80+ graduate students across campus affiliated with the USU Ecology Center. Interested students should contact Dr. Morgan Ernest (morgane@biology.usu.edu) by Dec 1st, 2009 with their CV, GRE scores, and a brief statement of research interests. Posted: 9/15/09.

Virginia Commonwealth University: Graduate studies in ecology and evolution. The Department of Biology invites applications from prospective graduate students for Fall 2010. We have an active, well-supported, and diverse Ecology and Evolution faculty engaged in research in Virginia and around the world. Graduate students may apply through our Biology Masters in Science or Integrative Life Sciences Ph.D. programs. Competitive funding and tuition waivers are available to qualified students in both programs, and may include fellowships, and research/teaching assistantships. Please visit www.has.vcu.edu/bio/ to find information about both programs. VCU is located in Richmond, within easy reach of the Virginia coastal plain, Chesapeake Bay, James River, Virginia barrier islands and Blue Ridge Mountains, providing excellent opportunities for research in diverse natural systems. On campus research facilities include the Trani Center greenhouse, aquatics facility, and IACUC approved animal facility. A satellite lab of the Nucleic Acids Core Facility provides a broad range of support for molecular approaches. The Environmental Analyses Laboratory provides state-of-the-art analytical services to support research in the environmental sciences. The Bioinformatics Computational Core Laboratory supports several supercomputing clusters and a research laboratory with access to state-of-the-art genomics and proteomics software and databases for research applications. In addition, VCU’s Rice Center for Environmental Life Sciences, located 30 minutes from campus, encompasses 342 acres of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems along the James River. It provides an outstanding resource for field-based research by both faculty and graduate students in the department. Facilities include new office and lab space, conference center, and boat house. Competitive students have GPAs >3.0 and combined GRE scores 1,100 or greater. Experience, reference letters, and rationale for applying to the program are important elements of the application. Prospective students must apply through VCU's graduate school or through the Office of International Education. For full financial consideration, applications must be received by January 15. Applicants that have identified faculty sponsors are more likely to be accepted and to receive financial support. Interested students are strongly encouraged to contact prospective mentors directly for more information, or graduate studies directors Dr. Jennifer K. Stewart (Biology MSc, jstewart@vcu.edu) or Dr. Robert Tombes (Integrative LS PhD, rmtombes@vcu.edu). Posted: 10/1/09.

Virginia Commonwealth University: The Vonesh lab in the Department of Biology invites applications from prospective graduate students for Fall 2010 to collaborate on our NSF-funded project at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Gamboa, Panama, "Fear, death, and life history switch points: cumulative effects of predation and phenotypic plasticity across three life stages." This project is a joint effort between the Vonesh and Karen Warkentin labs (Boston University), and focuses on the effects of sequential stage-specific predators on the survival and life history of tropical frogs. Students are expected to develop independent research projects that fit within the larger framework of the grant. The Vonesh and Warkentin lab team in Gamboa includes graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and undergraduate interns. In addition, STRI offers a diverse and intellectually rich, international scientific community in a tropical rainforest environment. VCU, located in Richmond, VA, is the largest public R1 university in Virginia and has an active and diverse Ecology and Evolution faculty that are engaged in research around the world. Prospective students should apply through the Biology Masters in Science program; however, the opportunity to continue through the PhD may also be possible via the VCU Integrative Life Sciences Ph.D. program. Competitive stipends, tuition waivers, and support for field work are available. Successful applicants to the Vonesh lab typically have had a BS in biology (or related field), GPA >3.3, GREs >1200, some prior research experience, a strong interest in developing quantitative skills, and an high level of self motivation. Some proficiency in Spanish is desirable. Interested persons should initially email a letter that summarizes their background, educational goals, and research interests, along with curriculum vitae (include GPA and GRE scores) with contact information for three references to Dr. James Vonesh (jrvoneshvcu.edu). Posted: 9/18/09.

Wayne State University: MS student opportunity in aquatic ecology, Department of Biological Sciences. Support is available in the Steiner lab for a Master of Science student interested in aquatic population and community ecology. The student will take part in a research project focused on the interactive effects of environmental perturbations and dispersal on the structure and dynamics of zooplankton populations. The student will be encouraged to develop an independent research project related to the primary project. Research during the summer will be conducted at Michigan State University's Kellogg Biological Station located in southwest Michigan. Support during the academic year will be provided by departmental teaching assistantships while summer support will be provided by research assistantships. Funds are also available for housing during the summer field season. Qualifications include: a record of academic achievement as an undergraduate; previous coursework or research experience in ecology or evolutionary ecology; the ability to work independently; and the ability to work long hours in the field (enduring heat, leech, mosquito, humidity, rain, hail, thunderstorms and pond scum). Those seeking further information about the position should contact Dr. Chris Steiner (csteiner@wayne.edu). Wayne State is an urban university located in beautiful midtown Detroit. For information about the Kellogg Biological Station see: http://www.kbs.msu.edu To apply: Please email the following to Dr. Chris Steiner (csteiner@wayne.edu): 1) CV, including GPA and GRE scores, 2) a letter of interest describing general research interests and any prior research experience; and 3) contact information (and email addresses) of 2-3 references. Posted: 10/30/09.

Assistantships and Fellowships | Fellowship Program Links | Short Courses

Fellowship Program Links:

• Department of Homeland Security Scholarship and Fellowship Program
• Ford Foundation and Howard Hughes Medical Institute
• NASA Earth System Science Fellowship Program
• NASA Graduate Student Researchers Program
• NASA Harriett G. Jenkins Pre-doctoral Fellowship Program National Academies Christine Mirzayan Internship Program
• National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate Fellowship Program
• National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program
• NSF/New England Wild Flower Society Fellowship Program in Conservation Biology
• National Wildlife Federation Campus Ecology Fellowship Program
• Organization for Tropical Studies
• Rainforest Alliance Kleinhans Fellowship
• Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholarships
• Smithsonian Environmental Research Center
• Smithsonian Institution Fellowship Opportunities
• Udall Foundation Environmental Public Policy & Conflict Resolution Ph.D. Fellowship
• US Department of Energy Global Change Education Program
• US EPA STAR Fellowships

Assistantships and Fellowships | Fellowship Program Links | Short Courses

Short Courses:

Field Course in Coral Reef Ecology: December 20th 2009 - January 9th 2010 The field courses will take place at the Bocas del Toro Biological Station, Boca del Drago, Isla Colon, Bocas del Toro, Panama. This course is designed to promote the desire for not only discovery and advanced understanding of coral reef ecosystems from an integrated ecological perspective but also an appreciation and understanding of the Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) culture. In addition to learning coral reef ecosystem dynamics, organism identification, and experimental design, this course will also investigate human dimensions in coral reef ecosystems, both past and present. To compliment the course and for the pure enjoyment of learning a new language, students will be taught a “Spanish for Survival” at the beginning of the session. More information. Posted: 11/5/09.

Effective Conservation Leadership: Graduate and Professional Course: Co-sponsored by the Smithsonian's Center for Conservation Education and Sustainability and the George Mason University Center for Conservation Studies. Conservation and Research Center, Front Royal, Virginia, January 3-13, 2010. Contact zootraining@si.edu for additional information. Effective Conservation Leadership provides an unparalleled professional development experience. Conservation practitioners as well as students at the outset of their careers become more effective leaders and managers through case studies and hands-on exploration of the leadership skills practiced in many professional fields. The curriculum includes: -Cross-cultural learning and team building -Program planning and management -Conflict resolution and negotiation -Cross-disciplinary skills for multi-stakeholder conservation processes -Networking and communication skills -Fundraising and grant-writing techniques -Development of a personal leadership plan. The course fee is $2,500, which includes instruction and course materials as well as all meals, lodging, and transport to/from Dulles Airport (IAD). All other travel costs are the participant's responsibility. Course participants who seek credit through GMU must meet Mason graduate admissions standards and complete additional project-focused coursework. Out-of-state participants pay additional tuition to receive credit. The Smithsonian-Mason Alliance designs courses to -provide graduate credit, and continuing education for conservation professionals -meet the practical needs of the international conservation community -connect course participants with valuable conservation resources and lifelong professional networks -engage participants in dynamic learning communities reflecting global perspectives. Posted: 9/24/09.

Wildlife, Ecology, & Conservation Study Abroad in Africa: The Fisheries & Wildlife Sciences program at North Carolina State University offers a three week study abroad program to Namibia (south western Africa) from May 16 to June 04, 2010. Namibia is one of Africa’s most stable and safe countries to travel to with a good infrastructure and a well developed tourism industry. This is a unique opportunity for students to explore and experience Africa while studying and gaining valuable knowledge about African wildlife-, savanna- and desert ecology, park management, conservation, ecotourism and ecological sampling techniques. Students will visit various ecosystems, conduct field work, participate in discussions and field lectures, track desert elephants, enjoy game drives and bushwalks. The highlights of this trip are the Namib Desert, Damaraland, Etosha National Park and the Cheetah Conservation Fund. The program will be directed by Dr Dörgeloh, a wildlife ecologist with extensive knowledge and many years experience in southern Africa. Students from other colleges and universities, as well as out-of-state are encouraged to apply. For further information about the program please visit http://cnr.ncsu.edu/fer/fishwild/fwstudab.html or contact the program director. Online applications are available through the NCSU Study Abroad Office. Please note: The deadline for applications is Dec. 11, 2009.

Fundamentals of Ecosystem Ecology: The Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies will again offer a short course in ecosystem ecology during the January 2010 Intersession (January 4 through January 16, 2010). This intensive course will cover the concepts, theories, approaches, utility and history of ecosystem ecology, biogeochemical cycles and budgets, ecosystem energetics and trophic structure, and the response of ecosystems to stress and disturbance. The course will include lectures by members of the Institute's scientific staff and will emphasize critical examination of ideas through extensive readings, group discussions and exercises. Class size will be limited to ~16 students. The course will be held at the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies, in rural Dutchess County’s Millbrook, New York. Students should plan to be in residence during the entire course and to devote their full time to this course. The cost of the course is $1,500. Included are: course fees, materials, dormitory fees, daily continental breakfast. Students will need to provide their own transportation to and from the Institute and their own meals. Kitchens are available in the dormitories. A limited number of $1,000 scholarships are available to students who can demonstrate that they do not have personal or institutional resources to pay for the course. Many universities have money available to help students pay for courses such as this one; the Cary Institute is willing to provide documentation to help applicants apply for such university funds, if necessary. The course is intended for graduate students in ecology, environmental studies, or related fields. Advanced undergraduates with appropriate background may be accepted if space permits. The course is listed by Rutgers University for 4 credit hours; students may wish to arrange to receive credit for the course through their universities under “special topics,” “seminar,” or a similar heading. For further information about the course content and eligibility, contact Dr. David Strayer at StrayerD@caryinstitute.org For other information, please contact Ms. Claudia Rosen at RosenC@caryinstitute.org To apply for the FEE course please use the online application. Application deadline is October, 30, 2009. Decisions about admission to the course will be made by November 13, 2009. Posted: 9/14/09.

Bayesian Analysis for Population Ecology: This Workshop will be held in the Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling (CREEM), University of St Andrews, Scotland, from 7th-10th September 2009. Bayesian methods are making an enormous impact in the area of population ecology. In this workshop participants will be given instruction on the underlying ideas associated with Bayesian methods and computational algorithms, applied to the area of population ecology. No prior knowledge of Bayesian methods will be assumed. We will begin with an introduction to Bayesian methods before considering more advanced topics, including, for example, random effects models, dealing with missing data, model selection (including posterior model probabilities and model averaging) and the reversible jump Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm. Theory and methods will be motivated and illustrated through a range of ecological examples. The workshop will make use of (and provide) the forthcoming book "Bayesian Analysis for Population Ecology" by King, Morgan, Gimenez and Brooks. The freely available computer packages WinBUGS and R will be demonstrated and used, making use of programs written by the course organisers. The workshop will combine both lectures with hands-on computer practical sessions using and adapting the computer programs provided by the organisers. The target audience for the workshop is statistical ecologists who wish to learn about Bayesian methods and/or apply these methods to their problems of interest. We anticipate that this may include a number of research students. Workshop participants will acquire new statistical tools for answering important questions relevant to the conservation and management of wild animal populations. Further information (including registration details etc). Posted: 8/11/09.

Ecology of plant-animal interactions in the tropics: We are proud to announce a new OTS specialty graduate course. This intensive two-week course is designed to get hands-on experience on how to effectively perform research on biotic interactions between plants and animals in the tropics (La Selva, Costa Rica). The main goal is to expose students to different types of biotic interactions, and to teach analytical skills and study methods to understand these interactions. We will put particular emphasis on teaching methods to study ecological and evolutionary principles of the chemical ecology of plant-animal interactions. This course provides a unique field-based experience for graduate students from South-, Central-, and North America and will be taught by renowned scientists in the field of plant-animal interactions including Anurag Agrawal, Rodolfo Dirzo, Andre Kessler, Robert Raguso and Jennifer Thaler. For more information please visit the Specialty Graduate Courses page of the OTS website or contact Katja Poveda (kpoveda@gwdg.de) or Andre Kessler (ak357@cornell.edu). Posted: 7/8/09.

Workshop on Bayesian Analysis for Population Ecology: A Workshop on Bayesian Analysis for Population Ecology will be held in the Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling (CREEM), University of St Andrews, Scotland, from 7th-10th September 2009. Overview: Bayesian methods are making an enormous impact in the area of population ecology. In this workshop participants will be given instruction on the underlying ideas associated with Bayesian methods and computational algorithms, applied to the area of population ecology. No prior knowledge of Bayesian methods will be assumed. We will begin with an introduction to Bayesian methods before considering more advanced topics, including, for example, random effects models, dealing with missing data, model selection (including posterior model probabilities and model averaging) and the reversible jump Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm. Theory and methods will be motivated and illustrated through a range of ecological examples. The workshop will make use of (and provide) the forthcoming book "Bayesian Analysis for Population Ecology" by King, Morgan, Gimenez and Brooks. The freely available computer packages WinBUGS and R will be demonstrated and used, making use of programs written by the course organisers. The workshop will combine both lectures with hands-on computer practical sessions using and adapting the computer programs provided by the organisers. The target audience for the workshop is statistical ecologists who wish to learn about Bayesian methods and/or apply these methods to their problems of interest. We anticipate that this may include a number of research students. Workshop participants will acquire new statistical tools for answering important questions relevant to the conservation and management of wild animal populations. Further information (including registration details etc) can be found at the link above. Posted: 7/2/09.

Ecosystem Service Markets: The Duke Environmental Leadership Program is offering an Ecosystem Service Markets short-course that will meet from July 29-31, 2009. Taught by expert practitioners working in the various ecosystem service markets, this course aims to bring the most current and practical information on ecosystem service markets to environmental professionals, specifically in the land trust and restoration fields. As states, regional authorities, land trusts, and others evaluate what lands should be set aside or restored, quantifying the ecosystem services provided by these lands or potentially provided by these lands is a new way to prioritize. Existing and emerging markets in ecosystem services may also become an additional source of revenue to help enhance conservation dollars. These new ecosystem service markets can become an important part of the business structure for land trusts and restoration businesses. The course will discuss the newest developments in four ecosystem service markets: wetland and stream mitigation banking; conservation banking, also referred to as species banking; greenhouse gas mitigation markets for agriculture and forestry; and water quality trading. For each of these markets, the course will provide an overview of the market today, including the regulatory framework of the market; discuss fundamentals of the market, including the limitations and opportunities in establishing a mitigation bank or project; and give detailed examples of how trades work within the market. For more information about the course and course speakers or to register for the course, visit http://www.nicholas.duke.edu/del/continuinged/courses.html . Posted: 4/27/09.

Advanced Field Course in Ecology and Conservation July 9- August 7, 2009, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Yunnan, China. This program is an intensive 4-week course in field research methods, research design, sampling and analysis designed for graduate students & advanced undergraduates in Ecology and Conservation. Format: The Advanced Field Ecology and Conservation-Xishuangbanna (AFEC-X) Summer Course activities will be split between lecture and field exercises. Students will participate in established long term monitoring experiments and further gain experience in independent project design. With guidance, students will design and present research proposals and further conduct field based data collection. The course concludes with a symposium, where students present results of course activities amongst their peers and instructors. Where: The course convenes in Kunming, capital city of Yunnan Province. The course will take place at the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Gardens in Menglun, southern Yunnan and all field activities will occur in the vicinity. Topics: Tropical Ecology, Eco-Physiology, Taxonomy, Evolutionary Ecology, Plant and Animal Interactions, Biodiversity, Conservation Biology, Invasive Species and more! Instructors: The various topics will be taught by professors from several institutes including The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Texas Tech University, Peking University, and the Smithsonian Institute. For more information: visit www.afec.ecologicalevolution.org Or contact Kari Malen (ksmalen@gmail.com) or Chuck Cannon (chuck@xtbg.ac.cn). Posted: 4/2/09.

Assistantships and Fellowships | Fellowship Program Links | Short Courses

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