Summer Jobs and Internships | Undergraduate Programs

Summer Jobs and Internships:

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Assateague Island National Seashore: GIS Technician to work in the Natural Resource Management Division during Summer 2007. The selected applicant will gain experience in scanning aerial photographs at high resolutions, utilizing ERDAS Imagine image processing software to manipulate photographs, and maintaining and updating an MS Access database. The selected applicant will also have the opportunity to participate in fieldwork and to utilize GIS to support a variety of natural resource management projects, including threatened and endangered shorebird and plant studies, wildlife management, water quality monitoring, and coastal geomorphologic monitoring. The park maintains a large collection of hard copy aerial photographs that contain valuable information on geomorphic and ecologic changes over the last half century. Unfortunately, these photos are underutilized, as they are only available at the park library in a hard copy format. The GIS Technician will improve access to this collection by (1) digitally scanning aerial photographs and preparing them for georeferencing; (2) populating and maintaining an Access database with photograph descriptions, locations, and file linkages; (3) creating a GIS shapefile with hotlinks to individual photographs; (4) georeferencing selected photograph sets into UTM coordinates, and (5) creating FGDC-compliant metadata for scanned photograph sets. The position will be full-time for 12 weeks between May and August 2006, with the possibility of continued part-time work in the fall. Start date is flexible. Technician will be paid at a GS-04 rate ($12.36 per hour). Park housing is available in close proximity to the park’s Visitor Center and Headquarters in Berlin, MD for approximately $150 per month. Knowledge and skills required for this position: Applicant must be a U.S. Citizen and planning to enroll as a full-time student for Fall 2007. Applicant must have a basic knowledge of methods, procedures, and technology of ArcGIS (ESRI GIS Software) sufficient to view spatial data in ArcGIS. Basic knowledge of MS Windows-based operating systems, and software (e.g., Excel, Acrobat) is also required, along with a familiarity with scanning software and hardware. Applicants must be able to communicate information in a clear and concise manner. The ability to work independently and proactively, and to organize information both spatially and logically, is also necessary, as the selected applicant will be organizing and cataloging a large number of aerial photographs from an area with few static landmarks. Experience with ERDAS Imagine, MS Access, aerial photography, remote sensing, and digital image manipulation is desirable, but not required. Applications must be received by February 26, 2007. Send form OF-612 (available at here) or resume (to include information required on form OF-612), contact information for two references, college transcripts (unofficial is acceptable), and documentation of full-time student enrollment to Courtney Schupp, Assateague Island National Seashore, 7206 National Seashore Lane, Berlin, MD 21811. Courtney_Schupp@nps.gov. Posted: 1/8/07.

Clarkson University: Summer Research Experiences for Undergraduates Theme: Sustainable management through environmental engineering and science. Who: Environmental engineering or science students expecting to graduate between December 2007 and May 2009. When: Ten weeks, May 29 - August 4, 2007. What: Conduct environmental research with faculty and graduate student mentors. Apply by March 1, 2007 For complete information and to apply, visit http://www.clarkson.edu/reu/. Posted: 1/11/07.

Cleveland State University: The Environmental Institute seeks qualified and enthusiastic participants for a Research Experiences for Undergraduates program emphasizing urban watershed ecology. The program stresses interdisciplinary approaches to urban ecosystem studies and a collaborative, collegial research environment with participants of diverse educational and life experiences. Possible research areas for summer 2007 include urban forest food-web dynamics, climate change biology, invasive species in urban ecosystems, and ecology or population genetics of urban stream organisms. The program also provides research training, educational/career guidance, and opportunities to interact with academic scientists and environmental professionals from a variety of state and federal agencies. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and students in good standing at an accredited U.S. college or university. Only students graduating after fall 2007 will be considered. Dates for the 10-week program are May 21 through July 28, 2007. Successful applicants will receive a stipend of $4,120 and a research supply budget of $600. On-campus housing will be provided to students from outside the Cleveland, Ohio area. Support for travel to and from Cleveland is also available. Review of applications will begin March 1, 2007. Additional program information and on-line application materials may be found at www.csuohio.edu/ei (click the button labeled “REU/PI”). You may also contact Dr. B. Michael Walton, Director, Environmental Institute, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH 44115 (b.walton@csuohio.edu or telephone: 216-687-4890 or 2407). Posted: 2/6/07.

College of William and Mary: With funding from NSF, we have available summer research positions for undergraduate students in environmental studies. Specifically, our focus will be on the interdisciplinary study of small watersheds in the southeastern coastal plain of the U.S. We invite student applications for research in the general disciplines of geology, hydrology, biology, and ecology. Our goal is to create a cohort of faculty and students conducting place- based, environmental research across a number of subject areas. Students will receive a $3720 summer salary for the 10-week program, a $500 food allowance, a $500 allowance for research supplies, plus free housing and travel to and from Williamsburg, VA. Interested students are invited to visit our web site to review the project description, identify potential faculty mentors, and complete the summer research application due March 1 2007. Contact: Randy Chambers, Watershed Research Program Director (rmcham@wm.edu). Posted: 1/9/07.

Dartmouth College: Matt Ayres’ lab is seeking a technician for research on links between climate change and the population dynamics of Lepidoptera in the White Mountain National Forest. The majority of this work will be done in the lab, with periodic trips to the field. Specific duties involve processing insects captured in black light traps, processing leaf and soil samples, and assisting with caterpillar growth trials. Hours and start date are flexible, but ideal applicant would work full time for a period of approximately 10 weeks (400 total hours at $9/hour). No prior experience is necessary, but coursework in ecology, evolution, entomology or environmental science would be useful. This is a great opportunity for undergraduates to gain research experience, and motivated applicants will be encouraged to design and complete their own projects as a component of this work. You can read more about this research at Erik Stange's website Please contact erik.stange@dartmouth.edu if interested. Posted: 5/14/07.

Fordham University: We are pleased to announce that The Louis Calder Center - Biological Field Station of has a select number of paid research opportunities for undergraduate students in our Calder Summer Undergraduate Research (CSUR) program. The CSUR program will run from May 28 through August 17, 2006. This is an NSF-REU Site. Students will work at a wooded field station with state-of-the-art research laboratories, less than an hour from New York City. This year we will offer approximately ten awards to qualified undergraduates interested in conducting independent research. Stipends of $4,800 plus a travel reimbursement will be awarded to successful applicants, and rent at the field station is free. Limited funds are available to support research and local travel. A sample of some of the potential student projects for 2006 includes: -Biological control of insects that transmit disease. - Connecting algal biodiversity with stream ecosystem health. - Ecology of symbiotic fungi in hemlock and oak forests. - Ecosystem responses to disturbance. -Evolutionary genetics and genomics of bacteria. - How do forests respond to multiple stressors? - How does UV exposure affect microbial pathogens in a reservoir? - Impact of an invasive species on local mosquito species. - Local food production in urban ecosystems. - Plants in urban systems. -Stoichiometric differences among aquatic and terrestrial plants. -Surveying aquatic insect emergence patterns in Calder Lake. - The dynamics of a benthic algal invader in a recreational lake. Successful candidates will be matched with scientists with similar research interests. Core program activities include the design and execution of independent, closely mentored research projects, and participation in mini-courses and weekly seminars. Through these activities, students will learn the fundamentals of experimental design, use of the scientific literature, data collection and analysis, and oral presentation. - An application (which includes a full list of potential research projects) can be requested from: REUatCalder@fordham.edu. Applications are due March 1, 2007. Posted: 12/15/06.

Harvard University: Harvard Forest offers an exciting program for up to 30 undergraduate students and recent graduates to collaborate with scientists conducting ecological research for 12 weeks during the summer of 2007 (May 29 - August 17). Each student will participate in an on going study with a researcher from Harvard, The Ecosystems Center of the Marine Biology Laboratory or other institutions. Responsibilities generally include field sampling, laboratory studies, data analysis and scientific writing. In addition, students attend weekly seminars and workshops given by nationally known scientists about their research, and about career planning, ecological ethics, and graduate school preparation. At the end of the summer, students will develop their research results, prepare an abstract, and present their findings at a student research symposium. Academic credit may be arranged with the student’s home institution. Harvard Forest research focuses on the effects of natural and human disturbances on forest ecosystems, including global warming, hurricanes, forest harvesting, and invasive organisms. Researchers come from many disciplines and specific projects center on population and community ecology, paleoecology, land-use history, aquatic ecology, biogeochemistry, ecophysiology, and atmosphere-biosphere exchanges. Visit the Harvard Forest REU site for summer 2007 project listings, researchers, and online application. Compensation: Students are paid a stipend of $4800 for the 12 week session which runs from May 29 through August 17, 2007. Excellent housing and a full meal plan are included as part of the program. Assistance with travel costs to and from Harvard Forest is also available. Applications are due March 7, 2007. Posted: 12/22/06.

Idaho State University: The Stream Ecology Center is seeking one undergraduate student to assist in an experimental study of effects of brook trout on linked stream-riparian ecosystems in the northern Rocky Mountains.  Duties:  Assist with field experiment of stream and riparian food webs, including study of fish, aquatic insects, algae, and riparian predators such as spiders and birds.  This is an excellent opportunity to learn skills needed to perform graduate-level research in ecology through the NSF “Research Experiences for Undergraduates” program. Opportunity will include an independent study.  Much of the work will take place in road-less areas and will involve camping and backpacking in beautiful settings. Qualifications:  Applicants will be ranked on a) academic record, b) experience in field research, especially stream and riparian ecology, and c) references from three instructors or mentors. Candidates should be enthusiastic, have a strong work ethic, and work well with others. The capability to work long days under potentially adverse weather conditions and terrain is a must.  Only U.S. citizens are eligible.  Employment dates:  Position is from June through August (some flexibility on dates). Application:  E-mail cover letter and resuméincluding experience, relevant coursework, contacts for three references, anddates available to:  Dr. Colden Baxter (baxtcold@isu.edu,208-282-6098), Dept. of Biological Sciences, Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID 83209. Apply by April 30, 2007 for full consideration. Posted: 4/3/07.

Institute of Ecosystem Studies: Independent Research in Ecology for Undergraduates - ten openings. The "Ecology in Context" undergraduate research program at IES is running for its 20th year in 2007. The program emphasizes the community nature of the scientific enterprise, with many chances for interaction, feedback and support, and a rich assortment of enrichment activities, workshops and field trips. Dates: May 29 to August 20, 2007 (12 weeks) Eligibility: Undergraduate freshmen, sophomores, juniors or first semester seniors. Must be citizens or permanent residents of the U.S. or its possessions. Stipend: $4,800 stipend, plus $600 allowance for food and free housing in Bacon Flats Lodge. Some assistance is available for travel to and from the program. Students receive a small allowance for research expenses. For more information and to apply (applications must be postmarked by 15 February 2007), see www.ecostudies.org/reu.html Online application available. Or contact: Patricia Zolnik, Undergraduate Research Coordinator, Institute of Ecosystem Studies, P.O. Box R, Millbrook, NY 12545. (845) 677-7600 x326, Fax: (845) 677-6455, zolnikp@ecostudies.org. IES is a highly interactive, research-oriented environment with a staff of 250. Students will exchange ideas with each other, staff scientists and educators, and visitors and speakers working in research, education, public policy and management. The Institute occupies the 800-hectare Mary Flagler Cary Arboretum, approximately 117 km north of New York City, in rural Dutchess County, N.Y. The modern laboratory and greenhouse facilities, library, computers and other resources of the Institute are available to program participants. Posted: 12/15/06.

Kansas State University: Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU): ecology and evolutionary biology of a temperate grassland. The 10-week summer program will run from May 26, 2007 to August 4, 2007. Extended dates are possible. Ecological studies in the REU Site program will examine the roles of fire, grazing and climatic variability as interacting environmental factors that shape the structure and function of terrestrial and aquatic habitats in mesic grasslands. Studies in evolutionary ecology will include studies of coevolution between plants and fungal symbionts, evolution of life history strategies in grassland organisms, and their potential evolutionary responses to global environmental change. Conservation issues are emphasized because tallgrass prairie is an endangered ecosystem that have been heavily impacted by habitat destruction and changing land use practices. REU student projects can be conducted at Konza Prairie Biological Station or at nearby sites, such as the Kansas River. Konza Prairie is a 3,487 ha tallgrass prairie preserve that is managed for ecological research by the Division of Biology. The research site is subdivided into 60 experimental units (mean size = 60 ha) that are subjected to different combinations of prescribed burning (burned at 1, 2, 4, 10 or 20 year intervals) and grazing (ungrazed, grazed by domestic cattle, or grazed by native bison). Many of the experimental treatments have long-term data that provide an excellent context for student projects. Students will have the opportunity to conduct independent ecological research projects under the guidance of experienced researchers working in grassland ecology and conservation biology. Students will receive a $4,000 summer stipend for the 10-week program, accommodation in furnished housing, access to campus resources, and credit for a 3-credit college course in Grassland Ecology. Tuition and book costs will be covered. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, who are currently enrolled in an undergraduate degree program and returning to their studies in Fall 2007. Students should be in good physical condition and possess a valid driver's license. A major goal of our REU Program is to provide research opportunities for students who have had limited exposure to independent research at their home institution. We welcome applications from students attending 4-year colleges, students that are the first member of their family to attend college, non-traditional students returning to school, and students from ethnic groups under-represented in the sciences. For application forms and more information, please visit www.ksu.edu/bsanderc/reu. Applications should be submitted before the deadline of March 1, 2007. We anticipate offering 8 to 10 internships in Summer 2007. Application materials may be submitted by regular mail, e-mail or by fax to Dr. Gail W.T. Wilson, REU Program Coordinator, Division of Biology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas 66506-4901, e-mail: gwtw@ksu.edu, phone (785) 532-2892. Posted: 12/26/06.

Marine Biological Laboratory: The Ecosystems Center seeks undergraduate applicants for several Arctic research projects. Successful candidates will participate in field research on either terrestrial or aquatic ecosystems in the Toolik Lake Research Natural Area on the North Slope of Alaska. The Research Experience for Undergraduate (REU) positions are available to U.S. citizens or Permanent Residents who are currently enrolled as undergraduates at U.S. colleges or universities (no graduating seniors). We anticipate funding for support of two to five REU positions during the 2007 field season. Duties: In addition to gaining experience by assisting on a variety of project activities, REU students typically assume an independent project that is linked to larger studies of lakes, streams, tundra or land-water interactions. REU participants are expected to collect and analyze data and to produce a poster describing their project near the end of the field season. Applicants must in good health, capable of rigorous outdoor activity and prepared to live in a field camp where cooperation with others is essential, personal privacy is limited and living accommodations are spare and simple. Candidates for these jobs should be available to live at Toolik Field Station during June, July and August. Travel to Toolik Field Station is paid by the grant as well as the cost of room and board at the Station and a stipend. Applicants should have completed basic coursework in biology, chemistry and ideally ecology or ecosystem studies. Attention to detail and a desire to learn new laboratory and field techniques are essential. Please send cover letter, curriculum vitae and the names, addresses, telephone numbers and email addresses of 3 references to: Marine Biological Laboratory, ATTN: Human Resources reference code [AL REU], 7 MBL Street, Woods Hole, MA 02543. Materials may be sent by email with reference code [AL REU] to: resume@mbl.edu. open until suitable candidates are identified. Posted: 2/21/07.

Marine Biological Laboratory: The Ecosystems Center seeks qualified applicants for a Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) position in tropical watershed studies in the Amazon. Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) positions are available to US citizens or permanent residents who are currently enrolled as undergraduates at U.S. colleges or universities (no graduating seniors). The successful applicant will be expected to spend 6 to 8 weeks living and working as part of an international research team at a field site in Mato Grosso, Brazil during July and August, 2007. The applicant will participate in a project that examines the effect of forest clearing for cattle pasture and soybean agriculture on runoff and water chemistry in small watersheds. Responsibilities will include installation of water measuring equipment, collection of data on soil properties, soil hydraulic conductivity and the chemistry of ground and stream water. The successful applicant would have the opportunity to conduct a brief independent research project. The successful applicant will be required to live at a rustic field station and work in a small field laboratory in close quarters with other students and researchers. Applicants must be in good physical condition, capable of walking several kilometers each day and perform rigorous fieldwork in hot weather. A working knowledge of or formal training in Portuguese or Spanish preferred but not required. Applicants must indicate the absolute first date of availability in June and last date of availability in August. Applicants should have completed basic coursework in biology, chemistry and ideally ecology or ecosystem studies. Attention to detail and a desire to learn new laboratory and field techniques are essential. Applicants should submit a letter of interest, curriculum vitae and the names, telephone numbers and email addresses of 3 references. Please send materials to: MBL, ATTN: Human Resources reference code [REU CN B], 7 MBL Street, Woods Hole, MA 02543. Applications may be sent by email with reference code [REU CN B] to: resume@mbl.edu. Deadline: Priority consideration will be given to individuals who submit their applications by March 15, 2007. Posted: 2/2/07.

Michigan State University: 2 or 3 undergraduate technicians from late-May to late-August. Project: Zebra mussels are an invasive species in the Great Lakes region and have now spread to hundreds of inland lakes throughout the Midwest with dramatic impacts on these ecosystems. We are investigating the role of zebra mussels in promoting nuisance (and potentially toxic) algal blooms in Midwestern lakes through a series of experiments ranging from large-scale mesocosms that mimic actual lake conditions to laboratory experiments that analyze mussel feeding rates and sensitivity to algal toxins. Site: Kellogg Biological Station, Hickory Corners, MI, near Kalamazoo. Responsibilities: Assist in the construction, deployment and maintenance of a large-scale mesocosm experiment in Gull Lake with regular field sampling and laboratory analysis. On occasion, assist with small scale experiments in the laboratory. ( Picture | Previous technician's website). Qualifications: Required: courses in biology, ecology, limnology or related field; good work ethic; work both independently and as a team. Highly desirable: field and/or laboratory experience; experience on boats and especially with outboards; SCUBA certification. Salary: $1200 monthly stipend based on 40 hours/week. Housing is paid by the project and consists of a comfortable, fully-furnished apartment on the shore of Gull Lake. Contact: Send resume, cover letter, unofficial transcript and contact information of three references to: Geoff Horst, Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Michigan State University, 13 Natural Resources, East Lansing, MI 48824-1222. Email: horstgeo@msu.edu. Posted: 1/26/07.

New Mexico State University: Research Field Assistant needed June 11, 2007 to August 17, 2007 (with the possibility of extending the period for another month), assisting on a project on rodent population dynamics in the Chihuahuan desert shrubland-grassland ecotones. Duties include: (1) capturing, handling, measuring, and collecting tissue samples from rodents; (2) measuring NPP of plants on specific plots; and (3) other duties as assigned (i.e., helping with maintenance of plots or data entry). The position require early morning hours (i.e., first light) during the trapping season under sometimes adverse field conditions (wind, rain, cold or heat) and often requires that individuals will be able to work alone. This is a full-time position (40 hrs/week but variable). Qualifications: Self-motivating applicants with some experience in handling small mammals and measuring plants and a lot of enthusiasm are preferred. The applicant must be enrolled in a bachelor degree in Biology, Wildlife or related Sciences. Potential candidates should possess a valid driving license, be well organized, self-motivated, and able to perform duties independent of constant direct supervision. Work vehicles and work-related equipment will be provided. Applicants will be interviewed and hired as applications are received, thus please respond ASAP if interested. Salary: $8.50/hr. Please submit cover letter and resume through email to Andrea Campanella (acampane@nmsu.edu) include names, addresses, and phone numbers of at least 2-3 references. Screening of applicants will start on May 10 and a response will be given before June 1. Posted: 5/8/07.

Northern Arizona University: Summer Botany Field Technicians. One 16-week position: Late May to mid September, 2007 $9 to $12 /hour USFS S.T.E.P. position Must be registered for classes in Fall of 2007 Two 8-week positions: Mid July to mid September, 2007 $9 /hour University position open to all Position Description: assist in understory vegetation data collection for a long-term prescribed burn study in ponderosa pine forests. Required: Ability to identify plants to species (required for 16 week position), Ability to consistently pay close attention to detail Flexibility to work a variable daytime schedule (not to exceed 80 hours per 2 week period), Ability to work independently following prescribed procedures Ability to work long hours in the field. Desired: Comfort and/or experience using PDA for direct field data entry Interest in plant communities, Willingness to camp at site if needed. Duties include: Collecting vegetation data and samples, Installing research plots, Laboratory work to key unknown species, Data entry. Application: please send resume, cover letter, and references to: Catherine Scudieri (cas285@nau.edu), NAU School of Forestry, PO Box 15018, 110 E Pine Knoll Drive, Flagstaff, AZ 86011-5018. Letter and resume must be received by 15 April, 2007. For additional information contact: Catherine by email or phone (928-814-9864). Posted: 3/9/07.

Oregon State University: Summer Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) We seek an upper-level undergraduate to work on research characterizing CO2 emissions (respiration) from ectomycorrhizal mats. The purpose of this research is to ascertain the importance of ectomycorrhizal fungi to soil carbon emissions in young and old-growth forest stands. Research will be conducted at the HJ Andrews Research Forest in the Western Cascades, an hour east of Eugene. The REU is a 10-week internship, with the goal of completing a high-quality research project that will become incorporated into a publication. This will include statistical analysis and a final report with graphs and figures. The National Science Foundation REU program will provide a stipend of $400 per week. Housing is available in Corvallis, OR, or at the HJ Andrews Forest. The research will begin approximately June 18, 2006. Specifically, the student will: - survey the spatial extent of ectomycorrhizal mats in an old- and second-growth forest plot - measure soil respiration from a subset of mat and non-mat soils - determine the dependence of soil respiration on soil moisture, temperature, and physical properties - help collect root images to characterize root growth rate as an explanatory variable - "scale-up" the contribution of EM mats to soil CO2 emissions at the plot-level To apply, send the following to Claire Phillips (claire.phillips@oregonstate.edu) by MAY 9, 2007 - 1 page letter of interest - current resume, including any research experience - current academic transcript (unofficial copy is fine) - names and phone numbers of two references willing to write you a letter of recommendation (at least 1 professor) Posted: 5/7/07.

Oregon State University: Eight Rangeland Ecology Technicians are needed from min-May to mid-August in eastern Oregon, SW Idaho and NE California. Current Student Applicants are preferred. Technicians will assist in a juniper woodland and shrub steppe research project. Results of this study will be used to develop fire management plans, restoration strategies, and wildlife habitat guidelines. Technicians will work closely with research assistants and scientists. Field work will involve the collection of plant community data, fuels, biomass and soils. Office and laboratory work involves processing and weighing biomass samples and data entry. Technicians will be entering data in August. Field work schedule will typically be eight days in the field and 6 days off. Work days will typically be 10 hour days. Field crews will be camping in remote locations near research sites with very limited facilities for the eight day work period. Skills and Knowledge: •Undergraduate education in range, soils, wildlife, botany, or other natural resource fields. •Plant identification skills desired •Strong ability to pay attention to detail •Capable of hiking over steep and rough terrain in adverse weather conditions •Comfortable camping and working with crew members in remote areas for extended periods •Ability to maintain a positive attitude •Valid driver’s license preferred •This position requires heavy lifting and bending over for extended periods of time Compensation: $10.44/hr, 40-hour work week. Overtime is paid after 40 hours in a calendar work week. Per Diem $22.50/day will be provided when we are staying overnight in the field. Housing is provided by the experiment station in Burns, Oregon at no charge. Transpostation to and from the research sites is provided. To Apply: Send a letter of interest and resume to the physical or email address below no later than March 1, 2007. List any pertinent classes in range science, botany, natural resources, and wildlife, and experience that relates to the job. Jaime Ratchford, Department of Range Ecology & Management, 202 Strand Ag. Hall, Corvallis, OR 97331. E-mail: jaime.ratchford@oregonstate.edu, Phone: 541-737-1620. Posted: 1/25/07.

Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory: summer experiences designed to help students learn more about ecology, evolution, and behavior in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Classes are designed to get students into the field and work with top scientists from around the world. In 2007 the RMBL will offer Field Ecology, Conservation Biology, Physiology of Animal Behavior, Field Mammalogy, Ecology and Conservation of Freshwater Invertebrates, and Field Botany. Additionally, students may take an independent research option and conduct a project with the guidance of a scientist. Substantial financial aid is available. The RMBL also has four fellowships through the RMBL Undergraduate Research Fellowship Program that are designed to help students considering a career in field biology. Students take Field Ecology (or an equivalent class) and design and conduct a research project under the guidance of a senior scientist. The RMBL covers the cost of tuition, room, board, and transportation for the Fellows. The submission deadline for coursework applications is April 1st . Positions through the RMBL's Research Experience for Undergraduates Program are also available (deadline Feb 15th). For more information, visit www.rmbl.org (Higher Education). Contact Mel Dean (mdean@rmbl.org) with any questions. Posted: 2/20/07.

Trinity College Dublin: Integrating Ecology and Evolution in a Changing World is a summer, undergraduate research programme based in Dublin, Ireland. Its aim is to provide research training and experience, as well as an introduction to Ireland, to national and international undergraduate students. Students will work within active research groups in Trinity College Dublin, Ireland's premier university. Full funding is available for ten students to participate in this 10-week programme, from 2 July - 7 September 2007. International students are also entitled to assistance with travel costs. All applications must be received by 16 March. The new School of Natural Sciences, comprising the departments of Botany, Geography, Geology and Zoology, and the Centre for the Environment, hosts internationally acclaimed biological, physical and social scientists. It provides a dynamic and exciting research environment, with ~40 academic staff, ~20 post-doctoral fellows, and ~120 graduate students. The summer undergraduate research programme cuts across the ecology and evolution research strands within the School, and offers projects ranging from climate change to behaviour to phylogenetics , and training in both practical laboratory and field skills, as well as generic science communication skills. Students will be embedded within active research groups and receive direct training from PIs, as well as post-doctoral fellows and graduate students. A weekly seminar programme will cover research ethics, the transition to graduate school, current topics in ecology and evolution, and science communication. At the end of the programme students will both write up and present their research project at a one-day symposium. In addition to the science, an active social programme will introduce students to the delights of Dublin, and the beauty and history of Ireland. Requirements: - completion (in 2007) of the penultimate year of an undergraduate biological science degree - proficiency in English (written and spoken) -willingness to work hard, and ability to work independently - strong interest in the project of choice - aspiration to pursue research in ecology or evolution Your application must include a CV (with 2 referees) and a completed application form, which you will download from the website. Details for the application process can be found on the website. All materials must be received by Friday 16 March 2007. Research Projects: Host-parasite molecular phylogeny; Grass phylogenetics; Parasite morphology; Shrimp feeding ecology; Plant biodiversity in conservation areas; Plant biodiversity in managed forestry; Phylogeny of Thai plants; Management and respiration in crops; Crop greenhouse emissions; Foraging and competition in bivalves. For more details, please see: http://www.tcd.ie/naturalscience/ureka or e-mail: fimolony@tcd.ie. Posted: 2/23/07.

USDA Agricultural Research Service: The Crops Pathology & Genetics Research Unit(CPGRU) located in Davis, California invites applications for a Biological Science Technician position GS-3/4/5. A technician is needed to assist a Research Plant Physiologist in a laboratory dedicated to research on grapevine water status/use in order to develop sustainable irrigation and viticultural practices for California vineyards. The technician will assist with all aspects of ongoing research including a variety of field, greenhouse, and lab-based work. The ideal candidate has experience in viticulture, horticulture or plant physiology, and has worked with pressure bombs, dataloggers, sap flow, soil moisture and/or micromet sensors. The employee must exhibit independence, a strong work ethic, reliability and excellent written and verbal communication skills. This is an ideal opportunity for undergraduate upperclassmen or recent graduates from the fields of botany, environmental science, or eco-hydrology to gain research experience. Part time employment in late spring will be considered with continued full time work throughout the summer. U.S. citizenship is required. Vacancy announcement and information on how to apply can be requested by emailing Angela Diaz at: adiaz@whnrc.usda.gov. For more detailed information on this listing, please contact Dr. Andrew McElrone; ajmcelrone@ucdavis.edu, phone: (530) 754-9763. The CPGRU is located on the UC Davis campus and the candidate will work closely with university researchers. The USDA is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. Posted: 5/2/07.

USDA-ARS: We are looking to hire a student research assistant for summer field and lab work in eastern Oregon.  Work includes plant and soil sampling, laboratory work, as well as assistance in making plant water relations and gas exchange measurements.  Hours: Full time (40 hrs/wk) from mid/late May until classes resume in fall. Housing on-site is available.  Pay: $11.01 - $12.36/hr depending on education and experience. Qualifications: Interest in working with plants required, knowledge of basic laboratory procedures desired.  Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds and have a good driving record.  Email Cover letter, Resume, Contact information for three references and unofficial transcripts to Jeremy James (jeremy.james@oregonstate.edu), Plant Physiologist, USDA - Agricultural Research Service, 67826-A Hwy 205, Burns, OR 97720. (541) 573-8911 fax: (541) 573-3042, http://www.orst.edu/dept/EOARC/. Posted: 3/15/07.

USDA Forest Service: Tonto National Forest/ Central Arizona, Globe Ranger District. Student Hires - Must be registered for college classes for Fall 07. Summer Temporary Employment Program Forestry Technician GS-0462-5 (up to $13.83). Description of duties: Work on a preburn vegetation inventory crew. Performs a variety of regular and recurring technical tasks pertaining to forestry studies, such as developing microhabitat plots using variable radius and fixed inventory stand exams. Duration of work: Mid May till end of August. Position: Open till filled. For more information please, contact Paul Churchill at (928) 402-6200 or email address at pchurchill@fs.fed.us. Posted: 3/30/07.

USDA Forest Service: Job Duties Include: - Performing California Spotted Owl, Northern Goshawk field surveys to established protocol; - Surveying requires hiking off-trail, driving on dirt roads, and working unusual hours; - Assistance with restoration projects; - Support projects and goals of resource program. Salary: $11.63 - 13.06 per hour; Limited housing available; Can earn college credit. Located on the Eldorado National Forest, in the Sierra Nevada Mountains between Sacramento and Lake Tahoe. AVailability varies with snow conditions, typically end of May through August. Start and end dates negotiable with school schedules. Basic student qualifications: Must be at least 18 years of age and have a current valid driver's license. Must be enrolled in or have acceptance to (with the intent to attend) an accredited college or university, graduate or professional school in the fall; and carry at a minimum, a half-time course load. Must be physically able to perform the job; a high degree of physical fitness is required. Must be a US citizen. Courses in Natural Resources, Biology, Conservation or other related fields is preferred. Navigation and birding skills preferred. To apply: submit your resume, application and transcripts by March 9, 2007. Must request application from: Claudia Funari (cfunari@fs.fed.us), Amador Ranger District, Silver Drive, Pioneer, CA 95666. Questions? Contact Claudia Funari by email or at (209) 295-5940. Posted: 2/2/07.

USDA Forest Service Pacific Southwest Research Station: 2-3 temporary summer positions (approximately mid June until mid September) to assist with forest ecology research at the Stanislaus-Tuolumne Experimental Forest, 35 miles east of Sonora in the Central Sierra Nevada, near Pinecrest Lake. The Experimental Forest is in a spectacular location just west of the Emigrant Wilderness and north of Yosemite National Park and contains some of finest remnant old-growth sugar pine mixed conifer forest outside of the National Parks. Two research projects are being developed: 1.) a study of how stand spatial structure influences natural forest regeneration and affects resilience to wildfire, and 2.) an investigation of methods for minimizing mortality of large pines when fire is reintroduced after a long period of fire suppression. Duties will include inventorying the 1700 acre Experimental Forest to determine the optimal location for experiments, laying out study units with GPS and GIS, and taking preliminary stand structure data. We will also be re-mapping forest stands originally mapped in 1929 to better understand long-term forest development after different types of logging. This job is an excellent opportunity for students interested in gaining field experience. Pay commensurate with education and experience (GS 4 = $12.36/hr, GS-5 = $13.83/hr [completed undergraduate degree]). Seasonal housing may be available on the Experimental Forest. Qualifications: o Must be a student or will become a student in the fall. o Coursework in forestry or ecology, GIS or GPS skills a plus but not necessary o Hard worker interested in being outdoors and capable of hiking long distances o OK with inclement weather and the occasional mosquito and stinging bee o Capable of living and working closely together with others. Please send resume, including the name, title, address, phone number, and email address of at least three references to: eknapp@fs.fed.us. Job is open until filled. For more information contact: Eric Knapp (eknapp@fs.fed.us, 530-226-2555) or Malcolm North (mpnorth@ucdavis.edu, 530-754-7398). Posted: 5/8/07.

USDA Forest Service Rocky Mountain Research Station: Student Seasonal Hiring-Research assistants for field and lab work with the riparian plant ecology, pinyon-juniper ecology, invasive species, and fire history studies of the Great Basin Ecosystem Management Project. Work includes sampling vegetation and soils in central Nevada watersheds laboratory processing of the collected materials, and data entry. You may be eligible for academic credit—talk to your advisor. Hours: Full time (40 hrs/wk) from mid/late May until classes resume at the end of August. Some part time before and after this period is possible. · Pay: $11.01 - $13.83/hr depending on education and experience. Qualifications: Interest in working with plants required, knowledge of native Nevada plant species desirable. Familiarity with field plant and soil data collection techniques and lab processing techniques. · Computer skills, especially MS Excel. Good physical condition, including ability to work outdoors for extended periods of time in varying weather conditions. This will include hiking long distances in rough terrain with sampling gear and samples. Availability for extended field work, up to five days (usually Monday-Friday). Good driving record. Some experience with 4WD vehicles is desirable. Send Cover letter, Resume, Contact information for three references and transcripts (Unofficial-OK) to David Board, Ecologist (dboard@fs.fed.us), USDA Forest Service, RMRS, 920 Valley Rd., Rm. 5, Reno, NV 89512. 775.784.5329. Posted: 2/20/07.

USDA Forest Service Rocky Mountain Research Station: Research assistants for field and lab work with the pinyon-juniper woodland network experiment of the SageSTEP. Work includes sampling vegetation and soils in central and eastern Nevada sagebrush steppe, laboratory processing of the collected materials, and data entry. You may be eligible for academic credit-talk to your advisor. Hours: Full time (40 hrs/wk) from early/mid May until classes resume at the end of August. Some part time before and after this period is possible. Pay: $11.01 - $13.83/hr depending on education and experience. Qualifications: Interest in working with plants required, knowledge of native Nevada and/or Great Basin plant species desirable. Familiarity with field plant and soil data collection techniques and lab processing techniques. Computer skills, especially MS Excel. Good physical condition, including ability to work outdoors for extended periods of time in varying weather conditions. This will include hiking long distances in rough terrain carrying research equipment and samples. Availability for extended field work, up to 8 days (usually Monday-Monday) with 6 days off (usually Tuesday-Sunday). Good driving record. Some experience with 4WD vehicles is desirable. Housing supplied by the Ely Ranger District (rent approximately $5/day). Send Cover letter, Resume, Contact information for three references and transcripts (Unofficial-OK) by March 1, 2007 to: Travis Miller, Site Manager (travismiller@fs.fed.us), USDA Forest Service, RMRS, 825 Ave. E, Ely, NV 89301. 775.289.5123. Posted: 1/31/07, revised: 2/21/07.

USDA Forest Service: We are seeking 2 highly motivated students to participate in a project studying Baker cypress, a rare conifer species found only in northern California and southern Oregon. This species depends on fire for seed dispersal and germination. As a result of fire suppression, some populations of Baker cypress are now dying without any regeneration. Our project will focus on restoring Baker cypress populations by: 1) Examining how prescribed burning and thinning treatments affect cypress regeneration; 2) Identifying factors that influence recruitment of cypress, such as fire return interval, stand age, fire severity, fuel loads, and site conditions; and 3) Developing recommendations for cypress management and providing a risk assessment of cypress populations across the Klamath, Plumas, and Lassen National Forests, and the Alturas Resource Area of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Duties: Field assistants will work under the direction of a crew leader to collect a broad range of data, including tree demography data (identifying trees, saplings, and seedlings, coring trees, measuring tree diameter and height, tagging trees, etc.), fuels data using Browns transects, vegetation data including shrub and herbaceous plant species identification, and post-fire severity data at sites that have burned. Field assistants will also collect cypress cones and branches in the field. This position is 70-80% field work, but will also include some laboratory and office duties such as counting seeds, aging cores and cones, testing seeds for viability, and data entry. There could be an opportunity for interested applicants to pursue other questions related to Baker cypress as part of their undergraduate/graduate work. Working conditions: The field crew will travel frequently to remote study sites in isolated, rugged areas of the Klamath, Plumas, and Lassen National Forests, and the Alturas Resource Area of the BLM. This is a physically demanding job, involving hiking and camping in steep, hot, rugged terrain for up to 8-10 days. Preference will be given to energetic, detail-oriented candidates with experience in botanical and forest demography data collection. Applicants must be able to work well independently and with others. GIS experience is also desirable for navigation purposes. Valid drivers license required. Salary: We will fill two full-time, temporary biological science technician positions at either the GS-5 ($13.58/hr) or GS-4 ($12.23/hr) level through the Student Educational Employment Program. This program provides Federal employment opportunities to students who are enrolled or accepted for enrollment (taking at least a half-time course load) in a 2 or 4 year college or university, graduate or professional school. Students who have graduated within 120 days of appointment are also eligible for this program. Work will begin in late May and continue through at least mid-August, 2007. Application Procedures: For inquiries related to this position, please contact Kyle Merriam at (530) 283-7777, Max Creasy at (530) 598-9343, or Erin Rentz at (530) 627-3312. To apply, please send: 1) cover letter, 2) CV including professional experience, 3) three references, and 4) copies of academic transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable) to Kyle Merriam, P.O. Box 11500, Quincy, CA 95971 , or via email to kmerriam@fs.fed.us. Applications must be received by January 29, 2007. Posted: 12/19/06.

US EPA: An excellent opportunity exists for a qualified student or recent graduate (undergraduate or graduate degree received within the last 24 months) to provide services under a contractual agreement in support of research to develop and evaluate DNA barcodes for stream macroinvertebrates in the state of Maryland, USA. The individual hired will contribute to an important collaborative research project involving the United States Environmental Protection Agency, the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Natural History, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, and the Consortium for the Barcode of Life. The individual hired will be stationed at the Smithsonian Institution’s Laboratories for Analytical Biology, 4210 Silver Hill Rd, Suitland MD 20746. The research is expected to advance the fields of water quality monitoring and aquatic ecosystem assessment by incorporating DNA diagnostic procedures into existing bioassessment protocols. The selected individual will provide technical support for the DNA barcode research project by (1) aiding in development of DNA barcode reference libraries for Ephemeroptera (mayflies), Plecoptera (stoneflies), and Tricoptera (caddisflies) established in Maryland freshwater streams and (2) using DNA barcodes to identify macroinvertebrate samples collected by Maryland Department of Natural Resources as part of the project. Please note that applications must be received by April 26, 2007. For details on the requirements for the position and instructions to apply, you must visit http://www.epa.gov/oamrtpnc/q0700114 For more information on the research project and technical aspects of the work please contact Mark Bagley at bagley.mark@epa.gov or (513) 240-0950. Posted: 4/9/07.

USGS, Indiana Dunes: The USGS Lake Michigan Ecological Research Station (LMERS) in Porter, Indiana at the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is soliciting resumes from undergraduate and graduate students seeking summer employment in 2007.  Positions and salary are subject to pending funding.  Positions will likely extend from May to August, but some may continue into the fall.  Salary will be commensurate with education level and experience (>$10 per hour).  Applicants should be able to drive motor vehicles, be U.S. citizens, and be willing to work outdoors in hot (sometimes cold), humid, and insect infested conditions in all kinds of summer weather.  Station staff includes five Ph.D. scientists plus technical and administrative staff.  The field station is located at the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, a unit of the National Park Service.  Research opportunities fall into two areas: terrestrial research and aquatic/microbiological.  Terrestrial projects we are working on include 1 ) avian distribution and abundance within a semi-urban landscape, 2) ecology, biology, and genetics of a native and invasive bittersweet, and 3) a study concerning the interaction between nitrogen deposition, disturbance and invasive seed pressure on the health and composition of dunes along a successional gradient.  We expect to hire one seasonal person and perhaps a minimally paid intern. One to two positions in aquatic sciences are anticipated.  These technicians will participate in research related to water quality of Lake Michigan particularly focused on beach water quality and bacterial contaminates of streams, soils and beach sands.  Field work will consist of sample collections and water quality measurement, laboratory efforts will be directed at molecular (e.g. PCR) and microbiological studies.  Please note in your resume, previous research experience, any taxonomic expertise you might have, potential dates of availability, references, and contact information (phone and e-mail - be sure to include alternative phone and e-mail, if you will be away from campus after the end of the semester).  Positions close as soon as filled or by April 15, 2007.  Send resume to npavlovic@usgs.gov. Posted: 3/6/07.

USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center: two full-time temporary Biological Science Technicians (GS-404-04) to assist in maintaining several large-scale avian monitoring programs. These programs include the North American Breeding Bird Survey, the Breeding Bird Atlas, and landbird and marshbird point count programs for the National Wildlife Refuge System. Duties: Preparation of biological data for computer entry, performance of quality assurance and quality control procedures on biological data using optical character recognition software and other techniques, assisting with database management, photocopying and filing, conducting literature searches, preparation of graphs, charts and other materials for web pages, and assisting in preparation of administrative correspondence and technical reports on wildlife resources. Duration: 29 May - 31 Aug. 2006 (approximate start and end dates) Salary: $13 per hour. Hours: 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week, Monday-Friday. Qualifications: These positions will be filled via the U.S. Geological Survey’s Student Temporary Employment Program (STEP). To qualify for the STEP program applicants must be a: 1) US citizen, 2) Current student (undergraduate) in good standing at an accredited college or university. In addition to the requirements above, preferred candidates will possess the following qualifications: -- Two years of completed course work in biology, wildlife management, environmental science, or related field. -- Knowledge of biological theories, concepts and principles; knowledge of distributions and natural histories of North American birds, a plus but not required. -- Knowledge of computer software used to summarize data and develop web pages (e.g., Excel, Access, MS Word). -- Knowledge of GIS software, a plus but not required. -- Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. Duty Station: work will be performed in an office environment located on the USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center campus in Laurel, MD. Housing and transportation to and from the work station will be the responsibility of the applicant. Contacts: Mark Wimer (301-497-5596) or Keith Pardieck (301-497-5843), for more information. To apply, send cover letter and resume with three references by 2 March 2007 to: Keith Pardieck, USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, 12100 Beech Forest Road, Laurel, MD 20708-4038; email: kpardieck@usgs.gov. Posted: 2/2/07.

University of Alaska Fairbanks: We are seeking enthusiastic undergraduates and recent college graduates who are interested in summer field research at Toolik Field Station in arctic Alaska. The overall objective of our research program is to understand the ecosystem and global consequences of potential future changes in arctic vegetation. Successful applicants will assist with fieldwork in our tussock tundra site and laboratory work consisting of tasks such as plant sorting and data entry. In addition, successful applicants will attend weekly seminars on the research at the station, will develop their own individual research projects on a topic related to the program and their own interests, and will present their work at an informal symposium at Toolik Field Station. For more information and to apply, see the full job listing. Review date: April 4, 2007. Posted: 3/30/07.

University of Arizona: Dr. Steve Archer in the School of Natural Resources has openings for REU students on a study investigating why some shrubs are more successful than others in invading and establishing in grasslands. REU is an NSF-sponsored program providing Research Experience for Undergraduates. Undergraduates receive a stipend ($4,800 @ $10/h) to conduct independent research projects under faculty guidance and mentorship. REU students will participate in controlled environment studies on the UA campus; and in field studies at the Santa Rita Experimental Range just south of Tucson. For more details and application procedures, see http://ag.arizona.edu/research/archer/ or email sarcher@ag.arizona.edu. Deadline: April 13, 2007; or until suitable candidate is hired. Posted: 3/27/07.

University of California Santa Barbara: Summer undergraduate research position in plant ecology. We are looking for an undergraduate researcher (freshman, sophomore or junior) to work on a project examining the seed germination biology of 40 native California plants across their geographic range. The goal of the project is to examine between and within species differences in germination strategies across natural climate gradients in California. Over the course of the summer the student will execute and write up an independent project related to seed banks. The position will start in mid to late June and run through mid-September. It includes a $4000 stipend. Students interested in pursuing graduate work in ecology or botany are particularly encouraged to apply. If interested please e-mail a resume and cover letter to Jonathan Levine (levine@lifesci.ucsb.edu). Review of applications will begin May 10, 2007. Posted: 5/7/07.

University of Central Florida: Restoration ecology field assistant. A field assistant is needed (June 15 to August, 2007) to work in Martha’s Vineyard, MA for a habitat restoration project by the Ecosystems Center (MBL), The Nature Conservancy, and the University of Central Florida. This project will involve plot layout, soil sampling and "pre-treatment" vegetation sampling for a restoration experiment of rare coastal sandplain habitat. The position will be field based, and will involve challenging outdoor work, sometimes during inclement weather. There will be seed collections as well as laboratory analyses. This is a good opportunity for a student to learn a variety of research skills by working with an experienced field crew. Good botanical skills and field research experience are a plus, but not a requirement. Lodging is provided on Martha’s Vineyard, MA. Salary is $300-400/week, commensurate with experience. This job will be for 8-9 weeks, with the assistant working for as long as they are available in August. Please email a letter of interest, resume, and phone & email addresses of 3 references to: Dr. Betsy Von Holle, vonholle@mail.ucf.edu by 5/15/07. Posted: 5/7/07.

University of Colorado: The Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program provides students with the opportunity to participate in research projects 1:1 with faculty mentors in Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior. Students are housed at the Mountain Research Station. The program offers an opportunity for participation in a unique, focused, research program. Meals and housing at the mountain research station are provided, along with a course in research design and analysis, and a stipend of $4000 for the 10 week program. Information on the program and an application can be found at http://www.colorado.edu/eeb/EEBprojects/reu/ or contact Bill Bowman (william.bowman@colorado.edu) 303 492-2557. There are two goals of the REU program: 1. To train promising undergraduate students in modern research methods in the related disciplines of ecology, evolution, and behavior. 2. To encourage undergraduate students, especially members of groups traditionally underrepresented in the sciences, to consider research careers and graduate work in the biological sciences. Applications are currently being accepted and are due Friday March 2, 2007. The program runs between 4 June and 10 August, 2007. Posted: 2/21/07.

University of Houston: I am looking for an undergraduate summer research assistant to help my laboratory group with work on plant-herbivore interactions and plant community interactions in Atlantic coast salt marshes. We will be based on Sapelo Island GA, but will make trips along much of the East Coast to other sites. You should be available for the most of the summer, interested in ecology, and able to do physically-demanding work under hot, muddy and sometimes buggy conditions. Please send a letter explaining your interest in the position and how it will fit with your academic plans, a resume including contact information for 3 references, and one letter of reference to Steve Pennings (spennings@uh.edu). I will begin considering applications April 23. Posted: 4/11/07.

University of Maryland: Summer lab/field assistant needed in Bob Denno's lab (Dept of Entomology) to help perform research examining interactions between plants and insects. The majority of the work will be in the laboratory with a few trips to the field throughout the summer. Specific duties include sorting and analyzing plant samples as well as identifying and sorting insects using a microscope. The field component will involve assisting with experiments on food web interactions in a coastal salt marsh. Hours are flexible and may range from full-time to part-time, depending on level of interest. No prior experience is required, but coursework in ecology, evolution, and/or entomology would be useful. Most importantly, the applicant should have a keen interest and enthusiasm for learning about plants and insects. This will be an excellent opportunity for undergraduates to gain research experience. Start date is flexible, but is preferably before June 1st and the position will last until August 31st (also flexible). Starting pay is $7.50/ hour. If interested, please send a brief letter of introduction, resume, and contact information for 2 references via e-mail to Shannon Murphy (smurph@umd.edu). Posted: 5/11/07.

University of Minnesota: Park Ranger/Interpretive Environmental Guide Position #3. Cedar Creek Natural History Area is looking for an out-going, self-motivated individual to be responsible for our seasonal interpretive park and trail system for 2007. This position would start May/June and has the potenial to run through November. The position is 40hrs/wk with a variable schedule which includes some late afternoons and every-other weekend. Pay will be $11 to $12 per hour. On-site housing is available, starting at $300 per month. The person in this position would interpret and communicate Cedar Creek's experiments and natural resources to the outside community. Some duties include: 1. Organize and lead interpretive tours for the general public and special interest groups. 2. Trail and Park maintenance and supervision. 3. Development of informational brochures for the general public. Qualifications: Ideal candidate will be in a college program working towards a degree in education, recreation resource management, environmental studies, natural history, natural resources science & management, biology or other related field. Experience in outdoors, camping and working with school-age childern is helpful. To Apply, please email: (1)a cover letter stating which position(s) you are appling for, (2) a resume, (3) copy of your transcript (unofficial is ok), and (4) two letters of recommendations to marot019@umn.edu. Please use this job's position number and name, as listed above, as the subject line in your application email. Appilcations are being accepted now, with the deadline of April 14th, 2007. You will be considered for this position if (a) you are a US citizen or b) a foreign citizen attending a US college or university full-time. Posted: 3/23/07.

University of Minnesota: Environmental Education Intern(s) Postion #1. Cedar Creek Natural History Area is looking for two environmental education interns. One would focus on assisting with our formal K-12 school-yard progam, and the other would assist primarily with informal education programs for the general public of all ages as part of our interpretive trail system. These 12-week positions would start May/June and go through August/Sept. 2007. Each position will conist of a 40 hour work week. Pay is $10 per hour and on-site housing is available, starting at $300 per month. The person in these internships would help interpret and communicate Cedar Creek's experiments and natural resources to the outside community through our school-yard program or our interpertive trail. Some duties include: 1. Help organize school field trips to Cedar Creek 2. Help organize teacher workshops 3. Help plan and lead interpertive tours for local groups and individuals 4. Help provide maintenence for trails and parks 5. Help develop inforamional brochures for the general public Qualifications: Ideal candidate will be in a college program working towards a degree in education, recreation resource management, environmental studies, natural history, natural resources science & management, biology or other related field. Experience working outdoors, and working with school-age children is helpful. To apply, please email: 1. a cover letter stating which postion(s) you are applying for, 2. a resume, 3. copy of your transcript (unofficail is ok), 4. two letters of recommendations to marot019@umn.edu. Please use this job's position number and name, as listed above, as the subject line in your application email. Applications are being accepted now, with a deadline of April 14th 2007. Posted: 3/23/07.

University of Minnesota: The Cedar Creek Natural History Area has opportunities for students to work as Research Interns. Most positions run from June through August, but some interns are needed as early as April and some until October. Pay is $10 per hour. If you are an undergraduate or a newly graduated student with a background in biology, ecology, environmental sience, or related field and want to start a career in one of these fields, or if you have a strong background and interest in flora of the Great Plains, we encourage you to apply. For details see Ecological Research Internships. Deadline: March 1, 2007. Posted: 2/27/07.

University of Minnesota: The King lab in the Department of Soil, Water, and Climate is looking for two undergraduates to assist with field and lab work on an NSF-funded project examining the role of solar radiation in surface litter decomposition. Ideally, students will start mid-May and continue through the end of August. Additional information about the lab and research project can be found on the lab website Position 1: Undergraduate researcher/assistant. The student will spend the majority of the time designing and implementing his/her own independent project on a topic related to the main research project. Qualifications: upper-level undergraduate with considerable coursework in environmental science/studies, biology, chemistry, geology, or related fields. Student should be independently motivated, familiar with basic statistics, and have experience reading primary literature. Some previous lab or field experience is preferred. Students interested in pursuing graduate work in environmental science or ecology are particularly encouraged to apply. For this position, students may also apply to the Life Sciences Summer Undergraduate Research Program (LSSURP). Position 2: Field/lab assistant. Student will be responsible for maintaining experimental treatments in the field, processing samples, and collecting and managing data. Qualifications: sophomore or junior science major with an interest in environmental science/ecology. Compensation is approximately $9/hour for a 40-hour work week. Housing is not provided, but some assistance in locating housing in the Twin Cities can be arranged. To apply, send CV/resume including relevant coursework with a list of 2 references to: Leslie Brandt, Department of Ecology, Evolution and Behavior, University of Minnesota, 100 Ecology Building, 1987 Upper Buford Circle, Saint Paul, MN 55108 Electronic submissions will also be accepted. Please send as a word document or PDF attachment to: brand142@umn.edu. Please indicate which position interests you and dates you are available. Questions? Contact Leslie Brandt (brand142@umn.edu). Posted: 2/20/07.

University of Nebraska - Lincoln: The Range and Forage Group of the UNL Department of Agronomy and Horticulture is currently seeking an undergraduate student worker for employment as a research assistant through the summer months (full-time; up to 40 hours/week). Responsibilities of the successful candidate will include: 1. Assisting with harvests of alfalfa and grass plots using mechanized equipment. 2. Processing (weighing, grinding, etc.) of harvested forage samples. 3. Data entry (using MS Excel). 4. Maintenance of laboratory and field equipment. Previous experience or knowledge related to forage management is preferred, but not required. Review of candidates will begin 28 February 2007 and will continue until a suitable candidate has been selected. For more information, or to send resume by e-mail, please contact: Kelly R. Brink, Research Technologist (402-472-4933, kbrink2@unl.edu) or Dr. Bruce Andersonson, Professor, Extension Forage Specialist (402-472-6237, banderson1@unl.edu). Posted: 2/20/07.

University of Notre Dame: Two full-time summer undergraduate research technician positions are available in Dr. Jennifer Tank’s Stream Ecology Laboratory at the University of Notre Dame. Duties will include fieldwork, analyzing gas and water samples, data entry, and general lab work. The job will provide training on spectrophotometric methods, gas chromatography, ELISA, and field methods including measuring ecosystem metabolism, nutrient uptake, and stable isotope sampling. Current research in the Tank Lab is related to these three projects: 1. The effect of land use on in-stream nitrogen cycling in southwest Michigan and northwest Indiana. 2. The effect of a large woody debris addition on stream ecosystem function (e.g. organic matter dynamics, nutrient cycling, and macroinvertebrate secondary production) in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. 3. The role of traditional and genetically modified corn material in the form of non-harvested tissue and pollen in agricultural stream carbon cycling in central Indiana. Please send a letter of interest, a resume or curriculum vitae, and a list of 3 references to Mia Stephen (stephen.2@nd.edu), Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556. Electronic copies are preferred. Posted: 5/7/07.

University of Notre Dame: Aquatic Ecology. The lab of Dr. David Lodge is seeking an REU student to develop and conduct a study of the invasive Chinese Mystery Snail (CMS) in lakes and streams of northern Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (funding pending). The project will investigate the mechanisms that allow CMS to establish populations and reach high densities. The student will gain experience in all facets of the research process including literature search and subsequent development of research questions, field and/or lab work to answer those questions, and statistical analysis of experimental work. Several participants of a larger, multidisciplinary project team will mentor the REU student. The student will receive a competitive stipend and housing at the University of Notre Dame Environmental Research Center will be provided. The project will take place from early June to mid August 2007. Although previous aquatic experience is desired, it is not required. To apply, please email a resume and cover letter, along with three references to Jody Murray (jmurray7@nd.edu) no later than April 15, 2007. Additionally, applicants should submit transcripts either by email (preferred method) or US mail to Jody Murray, University of Notre Dame, 175 Galvin, Notre Dame Indiana, 46556. Questions about the project may be directed to graduate student Matthew Barnes (mbarnes3@nd.edu). Posted: 3/15/07.

University of Notre Dame: Three assistants sought: 1) Vancouver Island, British Columbia: We seek one highly motivated undergraduate student or recent college graduate to participate in field research from April 15 through July 31 on southern Vancouver Island, British Columbia. The assistant will participate in various projects investigating plant and insect dynamics in response to global change in oak-savanna ecosystems including butterfly population dynamics and the responses of those populations to climate change, butterfly host-plant performance under differing competition, herbivory, and regional treatments, and the dynamics and impacts of an out-breaking invasive oak-gall wasp. Duties include conducting butterfly surveys, rearing females for egg collection, collecting weather data, entering collected data, monitoring planted study plots for seed germination and seedling establishment, collecting galls and rearing out parasitoids, and setting up and monitoring butterfly feeding experiments in the field. Assistant must be prepared to work long consecutive days outside, regardless of weather conditions. Monthly stipend and housing (Victoria, BC) provided. Willing to work with student applicants to arrange for course work requirements to be completed from the field (e.g., final exams). 2) Southern Oregon and Northern California: We seek one highly motivated undergraduate student or recent college graduate to participate in field research from April 5 through June 30 in southern Oregon and northern California. The assistant will participate in a project studying butterfly population dynamics in oak-grassland ecosystems and the responses of those populations to climate change. Primary duties include conducting butterfly surveys, rearing females for egg collection, collecting weather data and entering collected data. Workers must be prepared to work long consecutive days outside. Monthly stipend and housing (Ashland or Medford) provided. Willing to work with student applicants to arrange for coursework requirements to be completed from the field (e.g., final exams). 3) Greenhouse Assistant, University of Notre Dame: We seek one highly motivated undergraduate student or recent college graduate to participate in ecological research in greenhouse facilities at the University of Notre Dame from May 25 through August 15. The assistant will be studying the effects of temperature and host plant origin on butterfly performance in a case study examining climate-driven range shifts in contrasting model butterfly species. Primary duties include setting up and maintaining caterpillar enclosures in growth chambers, maintaining plants in greenhouses, measuring caterpillars and entering collected data. Monthly stipend provided. All positions: For more information, contact Jessica Hellmann (primary investigator) at hellmann.3@nd.edu or Jason Dzurisin (Hellmann lab manager) at jdzurisin@nd.edu. Applications must be received by March 10, 2007.

University of Oklahoma: The Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program provides an opportunity for undergraduate students to gain hands-on experience conducting scientific research. The Civil Engineering and Environmental Science REU program has been in existence since 1997. In that time, more than 50 undergraduates have come to OU to participate in exciting scientific research projects. Dates: June 4 to July 27, 2007 Stipend: $3,200 for the eight week program. All required application materials are described in the application form. To begin your application, please complete an application form and submit it by email, fax or mail to: Dr. K.A. Strevett, University of Oklahoma, School of Civil Engineering and Environmental Science, 202 W. Boyd St., Room 334, Norman, OK 73019. (405) 325-4237 Phone, (405) 325-4217 Fax, strevett@ou.edu. You must submit all items specified in the application form (essay, resume, recommendation letters, transcript). Screening of applications will begin March 15, 2007, and will continue until all positions have been filled. Posted: 3/13/07.

University of Pittsburgh: The Ecology and Evolution Program in the Department of Biological Sciences has an NSF-funded research opportunity for an undergraduate student interested in the effects of pesticides on aquatic communities. The successful candidate will conduct independent research with the ultimate goal of publishing the work. Previous students have published their work in the world’s leading ecological journals. Students will be trained in all aspects of conducting ecological research as part of a diverse research team that examines the ecology and evolution of aquatic organisms. The experience will include collecting animals from ponds, swamps, and marshes and conducting both laboratory experiments and outdoor field experiments. The research experience occurs from early May through early August (12 weeks) at our research station in northwest Pennsylvania. The student will attend weekly evening seminars and socialize with other undergraduate students, graduate students, and faculty from around the country. During this time, the student will be paid $10/hour and enjoy free housing on the beautiful shores of Pymatuning Lake. There also are funds available for research supplies and travel to nearby field sites (having a vehicle is required). Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and enrolled as undergraduate students (graduating seniors are not eligible). Interested students should send a resume, a list of references, and a brief cover letter detailing their interests in this research opportunity to Dr. Rick Relyea at relyea@pitt.edu. All applications should be submitted by 2 April 2007. Posted: 3/23/07.

University of Tennessee: A research assistant is needed for a project examining factors affecting foraging activities of the insectivorous Brazilian free-tailed bat in south-central Texas. Project will run roughly between mid May to mid August (summer 2007). Paid field position (w/ housing). Work will include: Nightly recording of foraging bat calls Measuring environmental variables Data entry/analysis Potential help/participation in additional bat research being conducted in the region. Qualifications: I am looking for someone who is highly enthusiastic and interested in scientific research and the field of conservation biology. Applicants must have a valid drivers license, and should be comfortable working in the field at night. For more information please contact Noa Davidai (ndavidai@utk.edu). Please attach a CV or resume. Posted: 2/26/07.

Wichita State University: We are searching for a motivated, upper-level or recently graduated undergraduate with a strong interest in population ecology or plant-insect interactions to assist with field research that examines effects of native insect herbivores on tall thistle (Cirsium altissimum) in tallgrass prairies of eastern Nebraska. This National Science Foundation-funded project is a collaboration between Dr. Svata Louda (University of Nebraska-Lincoln) and Dr. Leland Russell (Wichita State University). Specifically, we are interested in understanding how effects of guilds of insect herbivores that attack different plant organs combine to produce their net effect upon tall thistle seed production and population growth. In addition, we are interested in how the joint effects of insect herbivore guilds vary with soil resource availability to the plant and ecosystem productivity. This research will provide insights into the population dynamics of weedy plants and help predict effective control strategies for invasive species. In assisting with this research, the field assistant will be introduced to diverse skills that will be useful in graduate education in ecology or in professions that require collection of ecological data in the field. These skills include basic principles of experimental and sampling design, conducting insect exclusion and seed addition experiments, insect collection, plant and insect identification, quantifying herbivore damage to plants, quantifying plant growth and reproduction and experimental manipulation of soil resource availability. In addition, the student will get experience in a diversity of grassland ecosystem types in the central Great Plains of Nebraska and Kansas. The field assistant position will begin May 21 2007 and will continue until August 24 2007. If agreeable to the assistant and the project leaders, the position can be extended until September 21 to allow collection of late-flowering tall thistle flower heads. Preference will be given to candidates who are available and willing to work until September 21. There is some flexibility in the start date. The assistant will be paid $1300-$1500 per month depending upon previous fieldwork experience. The project is based in Lincoln, Nebraska. Housing is not provided. If you are interested and have questions, e-mail me (leland.russell@wichita.edu). Please submit applications to Leland Russell, Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, 1845 Fairmount, Wichita KS 67260-0026. Applications must include 1) a letter explaining your interest in the position, how the position would further your educational/career goals and any previous experience in field research and 2) a CV or resume. Please arrange to have two letters of recommendation sent to me at the above address as well. Review of applications will begin March 12 2007 and will continue until a qualified candidate is found. Posted: 2/21/07.

Wright State University: We are offering a full-time paid summer research assistant position to undergraduates with an interest in pursuing a career in ecology or environmental sciences. We are seeking highly motivated students to assist with an ongoing project studying lake ecosystems in northern Wisconsin. The position will begin in early June and finish in late August. Responsibilities include assisting with data collection, field sampling, data management, and other general tasks such as maintaining equipment. Applicants must be SCUBA certified or be willing to become certified. Students must be self-motivated, willing to spend long hours in the field, and interested in aquatic ecology. Lab or field experience and experience with motor boats is preferable but not necessary. Housing at UW-Madison Trout Lake Research Station and most SCUBA equipment is provided. To apply, submit a cover letter detailing career interests and qualifications, a resumé and the names and contact information for three references to Shawn Devlin (devlin.2@wright.edu) or Dr. Yvonne Vadeboncoeur (yvonne.vadeboncoeur@wright.edu) via email. Posted: 4/23/07.

Wright State University: An REU summer position is available with Dr. Yvonne Vadeboncoeur to conduct research at the University of Wisconsin’s Trout Lake Station. The successful applicant will design and conduct a multi-lake field experiment to determine the effects of bioturbation by introduced crayfish on benthic algal and bacterial production in the littoral zone. The student will also participate in a larger NSF funded project to quantify the role of littoral zones in lake food webs (principal investigators Yvonne Vadeboncoeur, Wright State University and Jake Vander Zanden, University of Wisconsin). Applicants must be SCUBA certified or be willing to become SCUBA certified before June 10, 2007. REU positions are only available to undergraduates currently enrolled in a US university or college and to students who are US citizens or permanent residents of the US. The successful applicant will gain training in research with SCUBA, measuring benthic algal and bacterial production, conducting chlorophyll analysis, and identifying benthic macroinvertebrates. Experience with any of these analyses is helpful, but not necessary. The REU student will design and conduct an independent project. The work will be presented during a weekly seminar series at Trout Lake Station at the end of the summer. The student will also be asked to produce a poster based on their work after the field season is over. A summer stipend, a research budget and the cost of housing at Trout Lake Station is provided with this position. The student is responsible for the cost of food. A large group of students resides at Trout Lake during the summer months so applicants must be comfortable living and working in a group situation in a somewhat remote location. Applicants need to be healthy and be capable of doing rigorous work outside under all weather conditions. Other qualifications include: completion of basic biology, ecology and chemistry course work; an interest in pursuing a career in field biology or environmental sciences; a high degree of self motivation and willingness to work independently; SCUBA certification. The project begins in the second week of June and ends in late August. For more information, contact Shawn Devlin (devlin.2@wright.edu) or Yvonne Vadeboncoeur (yvonne.vadeboncoeur@wright.edu) either by email or phone (937-775-2657). Application materials include a Resume, a brief statement of interest and career goals, and the names and contact information of three references. Posted: 4/23/07.

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Undergraduate Programs:

Strategies for Ecology Education, Development and Sustainability (SEEDS): Promotes ecology opportunities for underrepresented students. The program’s mission is to stimulate and nurture underrepresented students’ interest in ecology in order to diversify and strengthen the profession of ecology. Student Field Trips are one such opportunity supported by the program. SEEDS Student Field Trips focus on ecologically significant areas in order to foster student identification with ecology through hands-on experiences with professional ecologists, exposure to the practical application of ecology, and by building student awareness of career options in the field of ecology. For more information about SEEDS and the other activities supported by the program, visit http://esa.org/seeds/.

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