03-14
Physiologically structured population models for viability analysis
One Post-doctoral position 2008-2009 available at the Ecology-Evolution
Laboratory (CNRS, UMR 7625) at the Ecole Normale Supérieure (CERES-ERTI)
in Paris.
Applications are invited for a one-year postdoctoral position funded
by
R2DS (http://www.r2ds.centre-cired.fr/) to investigate the dynamics
of
small populations with plastic life histories using physiologically
structured populations models.
for details visit: http://jf.legalliard.free.fr/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=64
03-13
PhD Scholarship, Sydney
Development and evolution of cerebral lateralisation:
Fishes as model organisms
Macquarie University is offering a PhD scholarship to
international or Australian student to work on the above
research topic in the Department of Biological Sciences
starting 2008. The research will be conducted under the
supervision of Dr Culum Brown
(http://www.bio.mq.edu.au/beef/) and will comprise a
mixture of lab and field based experiments. The research is
supported by the ARC.
The project:
Cerebral lateralisation refers to the functional
partitioning of information processing between the two
hemispheres of the brain and is often overtly expressed as
lateralised behavioural traits such as handedness. Previous
research has focussed on the neural mechanisms behind
cerebral lateralisation, yet surprisingly little is known
about its function and the fitness benefits it may provide
animals in their natural environments. This project will
address these questions by examining the development and
function of lateralisation using an evolutionary approach.
The research will determine the relative costs and benefits
associated with cerebral lateralisation in the day to day
lives of fishes occupying a range of natural environments
and, in doing so, identify its ecological correlates and
phylogenetic constraints. This research will address
fundamental questions pertaining to the evolution of
cognition in vertebrates using Australian rainbowfish as a
model.
The candidate:
The student for this program of research will have a
background in behavioural ecology or comparative
psychology. Experience working with fishes is preferential.
A first class honours degree (or equivalent) is required
for enrolment in the PhD program at Macquarie University.
Some evidence of publication is desirable.
Further reading:
Brown, C., Western, J. and Braithwaite, V.A. (2007) The
influence of early experience on, and inheritance of,
cerebral lateralization. Animal Behaviour, 74, 231-238.
Brown, C. (2005) Cerebral lateralisation; Social
constraints and coordinated antipredator responses.
Behavioural and Brain Sciences, 28(4), 591-592.
Brown, C., Gardner, G. and Braithwaite, V.A. (2004)
Population variation in lateralised eye use in the
poeciliid Brachyraphis episcopi. Proc. Roy. Soc. Lond. B
(suppl), 271, S455–S457.
Contact:
Dr Culum Brown cbrown ### bio.mq.edu.au for more information
03-05
In collaboration with various members of the Amur Leopard and Tiger
Alliance (ALTA), I am seeking a well qualified and highly motivated
graduate with whom to apply for funding for an interdisciplinary
project
on "Reintroduction of the Amur leopard: public perceptions
and conflict
resolution".
An opportunity exists to work alongside the team assessing the
feasibility of the reintroduction of leopards to the Russian Far
East.
This is an interdisciplinary project, co-supervised by Anthropologists
with experience in the area of human conflict over conservation.
The
aim is to integrate information on leopard diet and behaviour with
assessments of local feeling towards the reintroduction. The ideal
candidate would have an interest in wildlife-human conflict and
the
human dimension of conservation projects, as well as experience
with the
Russian language or other demonstrable linguistic skills.
Owing to funding constraints, the ideal candidate would be an EU
citizen, educated to the equivalent of Master's level. If you know
of
anyone who might meet these rather exacting criteria, please could
you
pass this email to them. The deadline for funding applications is
14
April but anyone interested should email me as soon as possible,
and
definitely before 28 March, in order to try to meet that deadline.
Phil (philip.stephens###durham.ac.uk)
--
Dr. Philip A. Stephens
Biological and Biomedical Sciences
University of Durham
South Road
Durham DH1 3LE, UK
03-01
Two one-year teaching positions at Augustana College in Rock Island,Illinois
1. Zoology
Augustana College invites applications for a one year Teaching
Post-Doc
or Sabbatical Replacement (title will depend on professional experience)
to begin with the 2008-2009 academic year. While a PhD is preferred,
consideration will be given to advanced ABDs. Primary teaching
responsibility will be general zoology and the possibility of general
biology for non-majors.
2. Physiology
Augustana College invites applications for a one year Teaching
Post-Doc
or Sabbatical Replacement (title will depend on professional experience)
to begin with the 2008-2009 academic year. While a PhD is preferred,
consideration will be given to advanced ABDs. Primary teaching
responsibilities include human physiology and comparative physiology,
and the possibility of general biology for non-majors.
For both positions, a commitment to undergraduate teaching in a
liberal
arts setting is required. There are approximately 350 students majoring
in biology and the pre-health professions, and 12 faculty members
in the
biology department. Questions may be directed to the department
co-chair
at SteveHager ### augustana.edu <mailto:SteveHagar ### augustana.edu>
.
Review of applications will begin March 17, 2008.
For more information including how to apply, visit our employment
website at:
http://www.augustana.edu/employment/index.php
03-01
Position Title: Associate Conservationist
Reports to: Dr. Steve Zack, Wildlife Conservation Society
Position Start Date:
Position Duration: One year (with possibility of renewal)
Location: Bozeman, Montana (preferred) or Portland, Oregon
Position Description: The Associate Conservationist position directs
a new
effort to assess the capacity of widespread native bison reintroductions
to
reverse declining populations of grassland birds. The starting points
include a literature review of the premise, then to organize a workshop
among stakeholders to gain consensus on common approaches to studying
and
restoring grassland birds in the Great Plains with and without bison.
Duties:
* Conduct an annotated literature review of grassland bird ecology
and
its likely relationships to free-ranging bison ecology
* Be the lead author on a peer-reviewed journal article on grassland
bird restoration and its relationship to bison ecology
* Help organize and convene a workshop bringing together key grassland
bird ecologists to summarize their activities and future directions,
gain
consensus on a coordinated monitoring effort, and help develop standardized
protocols for assessing grassland bird populations.
* Help develop proposals to foundations and other granting agencies
to
continue the project by gaining funds to support grassland bird
surveys (and
comparative studies) on the American Prairie Foundation's American
Prairie
Reserve in northeast Montana and at other major sites where bison
are being
reintroduced.
* Represent WCS at public meetings and with state and federal
agencies, industry representatives, and private land owners and
coordination
of these meetings.
Qualifications:
* PhD in wildlife biology or a related field.
* Professional experience (projects, publications) with grassland
birds and habitats.
* Experienced with the statistics of avian survey work (DISTANCE,
etc.).
* Ability to work independently for long periods of time with limited
supervision.
* Willingness and ability to interact with a diverse range of people
including biologists, ranchers, government officials, Native American
groups, and members of the conservation community.
* Excellent communication and public speaking skills.
* Expertise in all computer programs for the drafting of brochures,
proposals, reports.
Interested applicants should email a letter of introduction, CV,
and three
references to <mailto:sroberts ### wcs.org> sroberts ### wcs.org.
Position open until filled.
02-26
Internship: Behavioral Ecology of Bottlenose Dolphins in the Florida
Keys
Period of Service: May- August 2007. Need commitment of at least
one month.
Details of Position: Work will involve assisting doctoral student
with
field research on bottlenose dolphins in the Lower Florida Keys.
Responsibilities will include assisting in collection of dolphin
behavior
and fish sampling. Off water duties will include data entry, management
and analysis in addition to equipment maintenance.
Interns will receive training in field and lab techniques used
in cetacean
research.
Requirements: Must be upper division undergraduate or recent graduate
from
a scientific discipline. Prefer students with an interest in continuing
education beyond Bachelors. Previous field experience a plus. Must
be able
to handle long hours (8+ per day) under extreme heat (up to 37 degrees
Celsius).
Positions are voluntary.
All work conducted will be done under a Letter of Confirmation
for Level B
Harassment (MMPA 1972).
For further information please contact Jennifer Lewis at:
jennifer.lewis1 ### fiu.edu
Florida International University
Department of Biological Sciences
Miami, Florida
Postdoctoral Research Associate - Coevolution of Web Spinning Behaviors
and Spider Silk Biomechanics
A postdoctoral position is available to work on the evolution of
silk
biomechanics and spider webs in collaboration with Dr. Todd Blackledge
at
the University of Akron. Spider silk is an exceptional biomaterial
with
high performance properties that make it a model for biomimetic
applications in medicine and industry. This interdisciplinary NSF
funded
project seeks to understand how the mechanical function of spider
silk
evolves during behavioral transitions in web architecture. Primary
responsibilities will include characterizing the material properties
of
silks spun by diverse species of spiders and investigating correlations
with evolutionary shifts in the shapes of orb webs. In addition,
significant opportunities exist to develop independent projects
that
incorporate diverse behavioral, ecological, physiological, materials
science or engineering approaches to understanding spider silk and
webs.
More information is available at
http://www3.uakron.edu/biology/blackledge/index.htm.
This project is part of the University of Akron's growing emphasis
on
integrated bioscience research. It takes advantage of Akron's world
renowned expertise in materials science and provides postdocs with
opportunities for training in diverse fields. The Akron area provides
an
exceptional lifestyle - a low cost of living with more than a dozen
local
parks and the scenic Cuyahoga Valley National Park on its doorstep.
Other
highlights include access to a variety of local sports and cultural
events, including the nearby metropolitan city of Cleveland.
Salary will start at $34,000 annually, depending upon experience,
plus
full benefits, and will include funding for travel expenses for
conferences and research. The position is available for up to two
years.
The starting date is flexible, but summer 2008 is preferred. Candidates
should have received their Ph.D. by the start of the appointment.
To
apply, candidates should submit a cover letter detailing research
goals,
curriculum vitae, up to 3 representative publications, and the contact
information for 3 references. Applications should be submitted to
Todd
Blackledge, Department of Biology, University of Akron, Akron, OH
44325-3908, USA, via mail or sent via email (Blackledge ### uakron.edu).
Review of applications will begin late March and continue until
filled.
02-01
PhD student needed for a new research project on reasoning abilities
in
birds
A PhD position is available at the Konrad Lorenz - Forschungsstelle,
Grünau im Almtal, Austria. Candidates are encouraged to apply via
email
(including CV, letter of motivation and address of two academic
referees)
to klf.gruenau ### telecom.at.
Research is funded through a FWF - grant for three years. This
is an
international project involving cooperation with several labs throughout
Europe. Based on our experience in investigating the cognitive abilities
of corvids, we are now planning to expand this research to other
avian
species, with the main focus on reasoning. Candidates are expected
to work
with corvids and parrots using touch-screen technology.
The ideal candidate has a MSc (or comparable degree) in zoology,
behavioural biology or comparative psychology, is experienced in
working
with birds and possesses knowledge about computer programming and
touch-screen technology. Enrolling in a PhD programme at the University
of
Vienna is mandatory. The candidate needs to be capable of working
independently, should possess high communication skills and should
be
capable of living and working in the city of Vienna as well as in
the
rural area of Grünau (KLF). Work in Grünau requires the integration
into
an existing research group. Note that work at the KLF may be demanding
(harsh weather conditions, long working hours). Although knowledge
of the
German language is not required, some basic skills are favourable
for
dealing with non-scientific staff.
Payment follows the regular FWF salary. Health and social insurance
are
covered and study fees at the University of Vienna are refunded.
The
candidate has to cover room + board in Vienna, whereas a room may
be
provided in Grünau if necessary and some financial support for regular
travel between Grünau and Vienna is available.
For more information about our research group, please visit our
website
(www.univie.ac.at/zoology/nbs/gruenau/). If you need further information,
please contact Prof. Kotrschal (klf.gruenau ### telecom.at) or Christian
Schloegl (chris_schloegl ### web.de).
PhD és posztdoktori álláslehetőség
Várjuk az érdeklődők jelentkezését az újonnan megalakult Evolúciós
Rendszerbiológiai Csoportunkba (SZBK Biokémiai Intézet, Szeged).
Az ideális jelentkező háttere i) bioinformatika/rendszerbiológia
vagy ii) (evolúciós) mikrobiológia. Egyes témák igénylik a S.cerevisiae/
E. coli molekuláris biológiai gyakorlati ismereteket, és ezen pályázók
előnyben részesülhetnek. Az aktuális témák és további részletek
a csoportról a www.brc.hu/~sysbiol lapon érhetőek el. Az érdeklődőktől
a következő dokumentumokat várjuk e-mailben:
• Önéletrajz (angolul)
• Publikációs jegyzék
• Érdeklődési területet, szakmai háttér (angolul)
• módszertani tapasztalatok (angolul)
• 2 ajánlólevél
Cím:
Pál Csaba
Szegedi Biológiai Központ
Biokémiai Intézet
e-mail: cpal ### brc.hu
http://www.brc.hu/~sysbiol/
02-01
Lecturer in Animal Behaviour or Behavioural Ecology, L30k-L35k
The University is building an enthusiastic, integrative, interactive,
and
broad group in Animal Behaviour with the goal of making it an
international centre of excellence. We seek future colleagues who
would
like to understand the why and how of natural behaviour; the neural
mechanisms which control it, its function and adaptive value, and
its
origin, maintenance, and changes over evolutionary time. Applicants
should
be asking these kinds of questions: What is the behaviour's purpose
in the
sense of what are the problems that the behaviour solves? How does
solving
the environmental or social problem of interest maintain or enhance
fitness? Why and how does it evolve? We seek highly interactive
individuals who would not hesitate to cross traditional disciplinary
boundaries when necessary, and do at least some work on natural
populations of vertebrates or invertebrates. We have a preference
for
those interested in animal signalling, mate choice, habitat choice,
or
prey choice related to anti-predation mechanisms, but first-rate
people
outside these areas, for example in behaviour phylogenetics, or
animal
cognition in the context of behaviour in the natural environment,
are most
welcome to apply. The successful applicant will show evidence of
an
original and independent research programme, an established record
of high
quality research publication, and preferably a record of successful
application for research funding. The person appointed will be expected
to
teach undergraduates in Behavioural Ecology, and will have the opportunity
to develop specialist teaching at the postgraduate and undergraduate
levels in her/his area of research expertise. The appointment will
be made
at a level commensurate with the persons qualifications, skills
and
achievements.
This is an informal announcement of this position, although the
deadline
for applications is 15 March 2008. If you are interested, please
email
John A. Endler, J.A.Endler ### exeter.ac.uk, for details and how to
apply
formally when the official announcement appears.
01-29
The Istituto Nazionale di Oceanografia e di Geofisica Sperimentale
(OGS)
located in Trieste, Italy, invites applications for one postdoctoral
research
associate in the field of ecological modelling of marine system.
The successful candidate will participate in EU-funded projects
to study the
variability of the biogeochemical properties and water mass characteristics
of the Mediterranean Sea.
Research activities include, but are not limited to, the use and
analysis of
model results of coupled transport-biogeochemcial model to describe
the cycle
of Carbon and macronutrient in Mediterranean . The successful candidate
is also
expected to contribute to analysis of experimental observations.
The ideal candidate will be a creative independent individual with
a university
(Doctoral or Master) degree in physical science, or environmental
science, or
related fields, with experience in numerical analysis and biogeochemical/
ecological modeling, working knowledge of programming language (e.g.,
FORTRAN/
MATLAB), and understainding of fenomenologial process of interest.
Good communication skills in Italian and/or English required
Experience of at least 3 years after the Master degree (Laurea Specialistica)
is required.
The salary will be set according to Italian regulations for postdoctoral
(assegno di ricerca) fellowships. The appointment is for one year
with the
possibility of renewal. Applications are due before 11 February
2008, and
requires the submission of paper documents. More information on
this position
and on the application procedures can be found in the attached document
(in
Italian).
If seriously interested, you can also write to csolidoro###inogs.it
for pre-
enquires:(in this case attach a short cv and mention postdoc in
the e-mail
subject)
cosimo solidoro
01-29
PhD opportunity in animal cognition
Project: The role of stimulus quality in picture-object recognition
by
pigeons
The Department of Neurobiology and Cognition Research, University
of
Vienna (http://cognition.univie.ac.at), is seeking to fill a two-year
PhD-position in the area of pigeon visual categorization, beginning
in
February 2008 or as soon as possible thereafter. The position is
part of
a new project aimed at investigating various aspects of stimulus
quality
that may play a role in establish-ing picture-object equivalence.
The
experiments will be carried out in parallel to and in close coopera-tion
with those of another research program investigating picture-object
recognition, which started last year.
We invite applications from prospective PhD-students who should
have
completed qualifications e-quivalent to an Austrian Master’s degree.
Preferably, we will hire a candidate who will increase the student
diversity of our working group and who can be expected to give a
fresh
impetus to our re-search in the form of innovative views and ideas.
The
preferred candidate will have a theoretical back-ground in visual
perception and categorization and experience in performing learning
experiments with animals. In particular, familiarity with training
pigeons in experimental chambers (“Skinner-boxes”) would be
advantageous. Furthermore, reasonable skills in English language
are
required, and some basic competence in statistics is recommended.
The candidate’s work will be under the supervision of Dr. Ulrike
Aust
and Prof. Dr. Ludwig Huber. We offer a friendly and interactive
environment for sciencific work and the possibility of conducting
pigeon
research with state-of-the-art infrastructure and excellent
computational facilities.
Interested students are encouraged to e-mail a letter of motivation
and
CV to Dr. Ulrike Aust (ulrike.aust###univie.ac.at); these should include
a
statement of research interests, information on scientific background,
and (if available) study results, publication list, and references.
01-29
STUDY MARMOT BEHAVIOR AND ECOLOGY
Several field assistants needed for a field study of yellow-bellied
marmot behavior and ecology. Work begins on 16 April in Crested
Butte, Colorado and goes through 10 September. We're looking for
people who can commit to at least 2 months, preferably more, and
we
are especially looking for people who can start work in the early
(mid-April to July).
Early season applicants must be prepared to ski or hike in and
work
on cross-country skis or snowshoes in and around the 9,500 foot
Rocky
Mountain Biological Laboratory (www.rmbl.org). Days are long and
work
is physically demanding; you must be willing to hike and work in
this
spectacularly beautiful sub-alpine valley. You will be expected
to
trap, mark and observe marmots, collect biological samples (blood,
feces, hair), and regularly enter data into spreadsheets. A vehicle
is a bonus, but not required. The ideal person will learn quickly,
and be able to work both independently and as a member of a
close-knit team.
This is a great opportunity to obtain field experience before
graduate school. Previous volunteers have obtained course credit,
engaged in independent study, conducted honors research that formed
the basis of senior theses back at their home institutions, or
collected data that became part of masters work at their home
institution.
We have up to two REU positions (the first is through the RMBL
and
applications for this close 15 February); the second is pending.
We
may have funds to pay expenses for 1 or 2 volunteers. We may be
able
to provide free housing for early-season volunteers. Otherwise,
volunteers are expected to pay RMBL station fees, housing and food
(for most, this works out to about $25/day).
Interested? Contact Dan Blumstein (marmots###ucla.edu; 310-267-4746)
for more details. Positions open until filled.
01-29
> Dolphin Research Internships
>
> Dolphin Research Center (DRC) is currently accepting applications
for
> Research Interns for the Summer term. DRC is a not-for-profit
education
> and research facility, home to a family of Atlantic bottlenose
dolphins
> and California sea lions. DRC is located on Grassy Key, in
the heart of
> the Florida Keys.
>
> Internships at DRC are an exciting way to develop career skills
as well as
> an opportunity to get "behind the scenes" to see
how a marine mammal
> facility operates. Research interns participate in DRC's ongoing
research
> projects, giving them broad exposure to a variety of research
> methodologies. Interns receive extensive on-the-job training
in observing
> marine mammal behavior, collecting observational data, working
with
> research equipment, and assisting with experimental research
sessions.
>
> Specific job duties include:
> * Collecting observational behavioral data
> * Preparing stimuli for experimental research sessions
> * Assisting in setting up and tearing down equipment for experimental
> research sessions
> * Operating video equipment
> * Entering or scanning data into the computer for analysis
> * General support of the facility through participation in
the
> volunteer resource pool (facility maintenance, bird care, assisting
with
> public programs, guest interactions, etc.)
>
> Research studies can vary widely in nature and availability.
For
> information on past or current research projects at DRC, please
visit our
> website, at www.dolphins.org <http://www.dolphins.org >
.
>
> Internships require a minimum of a 16-week commitment, 40 hours
per week.
> The internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for providing
their
> own housing. DRC will provide assistance in locating housing
and/or
> matching up interns and volunteers desiring roommates. Successful
> candidates will be ready and willing to learn, self-motivated,
and
> flexible. Prior research experience is recommended but not
required.
>
> The deadline to apply is *** February 1st ***. To apply, download
the
> application available at www.dolphins.org. Click "Help
DRC", and then
> "Volunteer / Intern Opportunities".
>
The application, and all associated materials (resume, transcript,
and
letters of recc.) must be mailed to DRC.
THE SMITHSONIAN TROPICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE IS SEARCHING FOR A
RESEARCH
SCIENTIST
The Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI), headquartered
in the
Republic of Panamá, is seeking world-class scientists to establish
research programs in any current field of marine or terrestrial
research,
working anywhere in the tropics. These fields include all biological
sciences, anthropology, archaeology, paleontology, geology, and
soils
science. Ideally, research initiated by the successful applicants
will
complement existing programs (see http://www.stri.org). We are especially
interested in research on vertebrate biology; anthropology and
archaeology; paleontology; and climate change.
Panamá and adjacent regions of tropical America are rich in terrestrial
and marine habitats, archaeological sites and geological deposits.
STRI
maintains sophisticated research laboratories, a library, and support
centers, in Panama City, as well as diverse facilities for field
research
throughout the tropics. A 100' vessel is available for marine and
coastal
research. STRI scientists maintain cooperative research programs
with a
world-wide network of institutions. Opportunities for mentoring
young
scientists are available through a vigorous fellowship program,
and formal
teaching is possible through programs with affiliated universities.
Applicants should have a Ph.D. degree and postdoctoral research
experience
in their fields. Interested candidates should submit a summary of
research
accomplishments and interests, curriculum vitae, five significant
reprints, and the names and contact information of three potential
referees.
Annual salary is commensurate with experience. Laboratory set-up
and
relocation expenses are provided. Housing and family education allowances
may apply. Spanish-English bilingual education is available in some
Panamanian schools, which follow international curricula and standards.
Review of applications will begin in April 2008. Please send applications
electronically to the Director of STRI, c/o Ms. Luz Latorraca, Office
of
Human Resources at: LatorraL###si.edu. Address inquiries to Dr. William
Wcislo, Chair, Search Committee at: WcisloW###si.edu. STRI is an equal
opportunity employer and appointments are made regardless of nationality.
Field Assistants needed for studies on mate choice, kinship and
endocrinology in Belding's ground squirrels.
Research will be conducted in the eastern Sierra Nevada, centered
at a
field station near Mammoth Lakes, CA. Work will include trapping
and
marking of free-living ground squirrels, as well as behavioral
observations throughout the reproductive season. Work will begin
in
mid-April and continue through July. Previous field experience is
desired, but not necessary. Assistants will be provided with
transportation, room and board, with a nominal salary. If interested,
please see additional information and application details at
<http://mateolab.uchicago.edu/fa.htm.>http://mateolab.uchicago.edu/fa.htm.
Dallas Zoo Research Internships for Undergraduates
The Dallas Zoo offers volunteer research internships for college
students.
Interns assist the Zoologists and other staff members with ongoing
research projects. Their duties focus on learning research techniques,
data collection, sample processing, data entry, and data analysis.
Students must have at least one year of introductory biology courses
to be
eligible.
Two levels of internship are available:
1. Introductory research internships require a commitment of at
least
100 hours and 6 weeks, although more time is preferred.
2. Advanced research internships focus more on data analysis, although
interns will also learn data collection and sample processing. Advanced
internships require more research experience and a commitment of
at
least 200 hours and 10 weeks.
All interns receive an evaluation and letter of reference; some
also
receive college credit.
To apply, contact
Dr. Deborah Fripp, deborah.fripp###dallascityhall.com, 214-671-0994
or
Dr. Jeanette Boylan, jeanette.boylan###dallascityhall.com, 214-671-0774.
Applications will be accepted until April 1, 2008.
PAID RESEARCH FIELD ASSISTANT needed to assist with ongoing study
of
interior least terns in Dallas, Texas, mid May to mid August 2008
(start/end dates flexible). Intern will be required to work both
weekend
days, frequently starting at 6 am. Intern will not work more than
40 hours
per week but may work 7 days a week. Duties include identifying
and
counting birds, collecting behavioral observations, data entry,
writing up
reports, downloading GPS data, producing maps.
Experience with ArcView a plus. Attention to detail and legible
handwriting are critical. Applicants must have their own transportation.
Pay is $10.20/hr at 30-40 hours/wk, plus mileage; housing is not
included.
Send a letter of interest and a résumé with 3 references (names,
telephone
numbers and e-mail addresses) to Dr. JEANETTE BOYLAN Dallas Zoo,
650 South
R. L. Thornton Fwy., Dallas, TX 75203; EM: jeanette.boylan AT
dallascityhall.com (e-mail preferred). Ph: 214-671-0774.
Applications will be accepted until March 14, 2008.
01-09
Four Doctoral Positions
“Biodiversity and plant-insect interactions in largescale
and
long-term land-use gradients” Rationale Changes in land
use and its
intensity are major determinants of biodiversity, but large-scale
and
long-term research is rare. Four PhD positions are available in
the context
of a multidisciplinary research initiative (DFG-SPP 1374) titled
“Biodiversity Exploratories” to study the impact
of land-use
intensification on biodiversity and ecosystem processes on altogether
300
grassland and forest sites from three German regions (Biosphere
Reserve
“Schorfheide-Chorin”, Hainich National Park,
Biosphere Reserve
“Schwäbische Alb”). The successful candidates
will
experimentally analyze effects of land-use intensification on plants,
pollinators, herbivores (including butterflies) and their natural
enemies in
both grassland and forest habitats. For the study regions and details
of the
overall project see www.biodiversity-exploratories.de/project-aims.
Main topics of the four doctoral positions: (1) Multitrophic plant-butterfly
interactions; (2) Bees, wasps and their natural enemies in standardized
trap
nests; (3) Multitrophic plantinsect interactions on herbs; (4) Pollination
and seed set in herbs (see recent publications under
http://wwwuser.gwdg.de/~uaoe/Agroecology.html and
http://www.old.uni-bayreuth.de/departments/toek1/populationsoek/englisch/).
The PhD students will be located in Germany at the University of
Göttingen
or the University of Bayreuth.
Requirements
MSc or Diploma degree in biology, agriculture or related disciplines.
Knowledge in plantinsect
interactions, insect communities and statistics is desirable. Interest
in
independent research and team work.
Salary and conditions
Salary is ca. 1100 Euro per month (TVL 13/2). Start date: as soon
as
possible (e.g., March 1, 2008). The positions are for three years
each. The
doctoral thesis will be done as a series of English manuscripts.
Applications
Applicants should send their CV per email, at the latest January
20, 2008,
including certificates, a short summary of research interests, and
the names
(with email address) of two referees to all project coordinators
(see
addresses below).
For further information, please contact
Prof. Ingolf Steffan-Dewenter (Ingolf.Steffan###uni-bayreuth.de),
Dr. Catrin
Westphal (catrin.westphal###uni-bayreuth.de), Dr. Christoph Scherber
(christoph.scherber###agr.unigoettingen.
de), Prof. Teja Tscharntke (ttschar###gwdg.de), Dr. Alexandra M. Klein
(aklein###nature.berkeley.edu) and Dr. Jochen Krauss
(Jochen.Krauss###uni-bayreuth.de).
Doctoral Position
“Biodiversity and plant-insect interactions in a grassland
management
gradient”
Rationale
Agricultural intensification is known to greatly influence biodiversity
and
multitrophic interactions, but the relative contribution of plant
functional
groups, e.g. herbs and grasses, to biodiversity is less understood.
In a
multidisciplinary approach with botanists, soil ecologists and
phytopathologists, we characterize insect responses to fertilization,
mowing
and herb-grass composition in a well replicated common-garden experiment
with large plots using a latin square design. Management and plant
community
effects will be characterized by insect samples, quantification
of herbivory
and experimental phytometer studies, addressing responses of pollinators,
herbivores and predators (see Tscharntke et al. 2005, Ecology Letters
8:
857-874; Kruess & Tscharntke 2002, Conservation Biology
16: 1570-
1580, Biological Conservation 104: 275-284, Scherber et al. 2006,
Oecologia
147: 489-500).
Requirements
MSc or Diploma degree in biology or agriculture or related disciplines.
Knowledge in plantinsect
interactions and insect communities, as well as basic data analysis
skills
are desirable.
Interest in independent research.
Salary and conditions
Salary is 1100 Euro per month. Start date: as soon as possible (e.g.,
February 1, 2008). The position is for three years. The doctoral
thesis will
be done as a series of English manuscripts.
Applications
Applicants should send their CV, at the latest Januar 20, 2008,
including a
short summary of research interests, and the names (with email address)
of
two references to the address below (per email).
For further information, please contact
Dr. Christoph Scherber, Agroecology, University of Goettingen, Waldweg
26,
D-37073
Goettingen, Tel. +49-551-398807, Fax +49-551-398806, email:
christoph.scherber###agr.unigoettingen.
de or
Prof. Teja Tscharntke (same address), Tel. +49-551-399209, email:
ttschar###gwdg.de
2007
12-14
Graduate positions in Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior
University of Nebraska
The Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior section of the School of Biological
Sciences is seeking highly motivated students to join our graduate
program. The EEB group is especially strong in the areas of theoretical
ecology, behavioral ecology, life-history evolution, evolutionary
physiology, and evolutionary genetics.
We offer generous graduate student support, an extremely collegial
and
interactive environment for doing science, excellent biotech and
computational facilities, and access to the Cedar Point Biological
Station. For more information about the department, see:
http://www.biosci.unl.edu/.
For a listing of faculty in the Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior
Graduate
Group, see: http://www.biosci.unl.edu/grad/EEBGREG.shtml
For a listing of faculty in the Genetics and Bioinformatics Group,
see:
http://www.biosci.unl.edu/grad/GeneticsGREG.shtml
Interested students are encouraged to contact faculty directly
with a
letter of interest and CV. Deadline for applications is 15 December.
For
more information, see:
http://www.biosci.unl.edu/grad/ProspectiveStudents.shtml
Jay F. Storz
School of Biological Sciences
University of Nebraska
Lincoln, NE 68588
Phone: 402/472-1114
E-mail: jstorz2 ## unl.edu
http://www.biosci.unl.edu/faculty/Storz/index.html
GRADUATE FELLOWSHIP AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN
A Graduate Fellowship is available beginning September 2008 for
beginning
students in the Ecology, Evolution & Behavior (EEB) graduate
program at
the University of Texas at Austin to conduct graduate research in
the
laboratory of Dr. Hans Hofmann. The Hofmann laboratory studies the
neural
and molecular basis of social behavior and its evolution in cichlid
fishes
from Lake Tanganyika, Africa. Detailed information and recent publications
can be found at our website ( http://cichlid.biosci.utexas.edu/)
. Areas
of particular interest for this fellowship include, but are not
limited
to, the molecular basis of pairbonding and its evolution within
the
Ectodini, a Tanganyikan clade with at least four independent transitions
from polygamy to monogamy within the past ~1 million years. This
fellowship will be part of an exciting research program that integrates
ecological, behavioral, neurobiological, endocrinological and genomic
approaches to dissect complex behaviors. The Hofmann laboratory
is located
in newly renovated space and includes a 1200 sq ft state-of-the-art
fish
facility specifically designed for maintaining and breeding a range
of
cichlid species. The lab is also associated with the Institute for
Cellular & Molecular Biology, the Institute for Neuroscience
and the
Brackenridge Field Laboratory, which offer a cutting edge research
infrastructure. The University of Texas at Austin EEB program is
consistently ranked among the best and offers a world-class academic
environment and intellectual interactions with dozens of researchers
from
throughout the UT Austin community. The city of Austin and surrounding
region (Texas Hill Country) is one of the most livable metropolitan
areas
in the US and boasts a multitude of cultural and outdoor activities.
The Graduate Fellowship aims at increasing student diversity, very
broadly
defined, and provides an annual stipend of US $24,000 plus health
insurance and tuition allowance. Continuing funding is available
through
research and teaching assistantships as well as University fellowships.
Interested applicants are U.S. citizens or Permanent Residents with
a
Bachelor's Degree in biological sciences and have an interest in
approaching animal behavior and evolution with molecular biology/genomics
techniques in both field and laboratory- based behavioral experiments.
Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Dr. Hans Hofmann
via email
at hans ## mail.utexas.edu as soon as possible. For information regarding
the
Graduate Program in Ecology, Evolution & Behavior (EEB) and
admission
requirements see our website ( http://www.biosci.utexas.edu/graduate/eeb/)
or contact the Graduate Coordinator, Sandy Monahan at
s.monahan ## mail.utexas.edu .
The Department of Biology at the University of Massachusetts at
Amherst is
seeking to fill three tenure-track faculty positions at the Assistant
professor level:
One position is broadly defined as the area of Ecological Physiology.
We
are looking for a researcher whose work is field- based and integrative,
and are particularly interested in researchers using genetic and
hormonal
approaches within an ecological context. Organismal focus (animal
or
plant) is open.
The second position is in the area of Endocrine Disruption. We
are
seeking a researcher whose interest is in effects of environmental
contaminants on endocrine physiology. We are particularly interested
in
researchers examining the physiological mechanisms underlying endocrine
disruption.
The third position is in the area of Plant Metabolism. We are seeking
a
researcher who uses systems biology and/or functional genomic approaches
to understanding plant metabolism. The area of research should be
relevant to the use of plants for bioenergy, for example, carbon
metabolism or biopolymer production by plants.
The researchers would be expected to participate in a broad multi-
disciplinary initiative in Global Change Biology within the Department
of
Biology. This initiative bridges a group of faculty who use multiple
levels of analysis to understand how rapid environmental changes
are
impacting populations and individual organisms, including: loss
of
biodiversity, rapid evolution, disruption of physiology, reduced
agricultural outputs, and evolution of new pathogens. Postdoctoral
experience required.
Applications, which should include CV, statements of research interest
and
teaching philosophy, and the names, addresses and e- mails of at
least 3
references, should be sent to: Biology Search c/ o Ms. Karen Nelson,
Biology Department, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003.
It is
very important that you reference the position number to which you
are
applying. Positions to be filled contingent upon funding. The position
numbers are as follows:
Ecological Physiology R32351
Endocrine Disruption R32352
Plant Metabolism R32353
Evaluation of applications will begin on December 10, 2007 and
continue
until the positions are filled.
The University of Massachusetts is an Affirmative Action Equal
Opportunity Employer. Women and members of minority groups are
encouraged to apply. The Biology Department is aggressive in its
efforts to hire candidates who will enhance the diversity and general
balance of the faculty and the sciences.
GRADUATE STUDENT POSITIONS IN ECOLOGY & EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY
University of California Los Angeles
Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology
The graduate program in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at UCLA
invites applications from prospective Ph.D. and Masters students.
Graduate students in our department conduct research all over the
world on a wide range of organisms and have full access to the
outstanding facilities and resources that the University of
California offers. Generous 5-year support packages are provided
to
all incoming PhD students.
Areas of specialization within the department include behavioral
ecology, conservation biology, ecology, evolutionary biology, marine
biology, paleobiology, plant biology, physiological ecology, and
tropical biology.
Our department includes 25 regular faculty with a broad range of
research interests and expertise.
For a complete list of faculty and their research interests, see
our
website at http://www.eeb.ucla.edu/faculty.php
The official application deadline for fall 2008 admission is Dec
15,
2008, but applications received by Dec 31, 2007 will still be given
full consideration. To apply, go to:
http://www.eeb.ucla.edu/grad_onlineappl.php
.............................................................................
Dr. Gregory F. Grether
Associate Professor and Vice Chair of Graduate Studies
University of California
Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
621 Charles E. Young Drive South
Los Angeles, CA 90095-1606 USA
(310) 794-9769
(310) 206-3987 or 9184 (fax)
.............................................................................
Website: http://www.eeb.ucla.edu/Faculty/Grether/research.htm
Research Assistant Position: Army Ant tracking in Panama
A position is available from January 15 – April 1, and May 1 –
July 1 2008
to assist in research investigating individual variation in behavior
of
spotted antbirds (Hylophylax naevioides) at the Smithsonian Tropical
Research Institute in Panama. Spotted antbirds on Barro Colorado
Island
have experienced competitive release, resulting in behavioral and
numerical changes, specifically with respect to army ant following
behavior. The assistant will locate and track army ant colonies
in three
different locations of varying degrees of competition.
Assistants’ responsibilities will include location of army ant
colonies
and tracking of army ant colonies in their nightly emigration, as
well as
data entry and organizational tasks. Familiarity with lowland rainforest
preferred. Applicants should have a strong interest in insects,
animal
behavior, and field biology.
Assistants can expect to work during the evening hours in hot and
humid
conditions where biting arthropods are plenty, and the terrain is
steep
and densely covered in vegetation. A high level of enthusiasm, physical
endurance, and ability to work independently and at night are required.
Six days of fieldwork will be required per week, lasting from one
– four
hours. Round-trip airfare to Panama (max of $1000), food, and housing
will
be provided. Motivated assistants will have the opportunity to develop
an
independent side project.
To apply, please email: 1) cover letter explaining your motivation
and
interest to work on this project, 2) curriculum vitae, 3) contact
information of three references to Janeene Touchton,
touchton ## princeton.edu, Princeton University, Department of Ecology
and
Evolutionary Biology, 229 Guyot Hall, Princeton NJ 08544