Last update: 5/23/2000
Archbold Biological Station: A research internship is available to investigate nutrient cycling processes, patterns of productivity or soil ecology at the MacArthur Agro-ecology Research Center (MAERC), a division of Archbold Biological Station, in south central Florida. MAERC is located at a 4,000-ha full-scale commercial cattle ranch that encompasses varied pastures and prairies, a citrus grove, woodland hammocks, and abundant wetlands. The Center is the site of collaborative research projects with the University of Florida and South Florida Water Management District. The intern will spend half-time assisting with a project investigating patterns of belowground productivity in relation to land use and cattle stocking density in improved pastures and native prairies typical of south-central Florida rangelands. The other half of their time, the intern will spend conducting an independent research project. Potential topics for independent projects include, but are not limited to: (1) nitrogen or phosphorus cycling, (2) microbial biomass and activity, (3) distribution or role of soil fauna, (4) belowground productivity, (5) organic matter storage in soils and sediments. The internship is available for undergraduates at any level or students who are planning to enroll, or are currently enrolled, in a graduate program. The length of appointment will usually be for 3-6 months. The current start date is June 1, 1999. The appointment includes room and board at MAERC, and $50 per week for undergraduates and up to $100 per week for graduates. Interested students should contact Dr. Patrick Bohlen at (863) 699-0242 x22, (pbohlen@archbold-station.org) or submit an application that includes (1) a letter stating their research interests and internship availability period, (2) a resume or curriculum vitae, included G.P.A. and relevant course work, and (3) contact information for two references, to Dr. Patrick Bohlen, MacArthur Agro-Ecology Research Center, 300 Buck Island Ranch Rd., Lake Placid, FL 33853. More information about MAERC is available at: http://www.archbold-station.org/maerc/maerc.htm, or http://www.agen.ufl.edu/~maerc/. Posted: 2/2/00.
Boston University: Research Technician needed for laboratory work in forest ecology and nutrient cycling this summer. The data will come from projects on the response of forest growth to free-air CO2 enrichment and canopy tree-microbe-soil interactions in northern hardwood forests. The laboratory work includes plant, microbe, and soil analysis with an emphasis in chemistry. The position is available from May 1, 2000 through August 31, 2000. Minimum requirement is a junior/senior enrolled as an undergraduate in biology, ecology, soil science, chemistry or a related field. Prior lab experience is preferred. Interested candidates should send a hard-copy cover letter, and an updated C.V. (with GPA) highlighting their background in laboratory techniques to: Dr. Adrien Finzi, Department of Biology, 5 Cummington St, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215. Informal inquires will be addressed via e-mail: afinzi@bu.edu. Boston University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. Posted: 3/17/00.
Harvard University: We are looking to recruit applicants from minority groups that are seriously underrepresented in ecology for the Summer Research Program in Ecology at the Harvard Forest. The Forest is involved in efforts by Harvard University, National Science Foundation, United Negro College Fund and A. W. Mellon Foundation to increase the number of PhD research ecologists from these groups. Applicants who are undergraduates and Black (African-American), Hispanic, Native American (American Indians and Alaskan Native), or Native Pacific Islander (Polynesian or Micronesian) are encouraged to apply. Seniors who will have just graduated are also encouraged to apply. These students will be part of the general Summer Research Program in Ecology at the Harvard Forest described below. Each student will participate in an ongoing research project with a researcher from Harvard University, University of New Hampshire, Marine Biological Laboratory Ecosystem Center or other institutions. Responsibilities may include field sampling, laboratory studies, data analysis and scientific writing. In addition, students attend weekly seminars and workshops given by nationally known scientists on topics regarding ecosystem research, career planning, and graduate school preparation. In July, students will attend a one-day symposium on careers in ecology at the Institute of Ecosystem Studies in Millbrook, New York. 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 atmospheric pollution, global warming, hurricanes, tree falls, and insect outbreaks. Researchers come from many disciplines, and specific projects center on population and community ecology, paleoecology, land-use history, wildlife biology, biochemistry, soil science, ecophysiology, and atmosphere-biosphere exchanges. Information about Harvard Forest and the Summer 2000 projects is available at http://lternet.edu/hfr. Salary: Students earn $4200 for the 12 week session which runs between May 30 and August 18, 2000. Excellent room and board is available at Harvard Forest for $100 per week To Apply: Send an application, two letters of recommendation, and a complete set of academic transcripts to Dottie Recos Smith, Harvard Forest, P.O. Box 68, 324 N. Main Street, Petersham, MA 01366 by February 18, 2000. For Additional Information: Visit the Harvard Forest web site or contact Dottie Recos Smith (telephone: (978) 724-3302; email drecos@fas.harvard.edu).
Illinois Natural History Survey: Botanical field assistant wanted -- one temporary, full-time position. Location: Savanna Army Depot/Lost Mound Wildlife Unit near Savanna, Illinois. Job description: The Savanna Army Depot is in the transition stage of becoming the Lost Mound Wildlife Unit of the Upper Mississippi River Fish and Wildlife Refuge. A large part of the land parcel is degraded sand prairie and savanna that will be a part of long-term restoration research efforts. The botanical field assistant will assist the site Prairie Restoration Ecologist in establishing research projects in sand prairie and savanna areas of the Unit and in other nearby sand prairies. Projects include collection of baseline data on vegetation structure and composition prior to the beginning of restoration activities at the site and a seed bank study. Some time for independent research may be available. Qualifications: (1) Course work and/or experience in biology, botany, ecology, environmental science, or related curriculum. (2) Knowledge of Illinois grassland plant species would be optimal; course work in plant taxonomy or field identification is strongly preferred; willingness and ability to learn plant identification is required. (3) Physical endurance to carry heavy plot markers and work in all weather conditions.. Wages: $7.50/hr, 40 hr/wk. Available: 12 June 2000 - 11 August 2000, dates somewhat flexible. Application: Applications should be received by 11 April 2000. To apply, submit cover letter, resume, transcript(s), and name, address and phone number of two references to: Sue Key, Human Resources Manager, PRF #720, Illinois Natural History Survey, 607 E. Peabody, Champaign, IL 61820, (217) 244-7790. For technical questions regarding the position, contact Amy Symstad at (815) 273-3184 or amysym@internetni.com. Posted: 3/17/00.
Institute of Ecosystem Studies: I am a PhD student at the Institute of Ecosystem Studies and Cornell University, and am offering a research assistant position this summer. My PhD work involves studying how beaver activity affects patterns of plant species diversity in the riparian zone at different spatial scales. The job this summer will consist of sampling a lot of beaver meadows to determine the composition of the plant community as well as surveying the microtopography and doing some measurements of soil nutrient availability to determine what factors are important in determining how diverse these meadows are. Practically, what that means is a lot of hiking around, identifying plants, surveying with a stadia rod and level, and a few long days of lab work. The research takes place at the Huntington Wildlife Forest (http://www.esf.edu/aec/), located in the central Adirondacks. You would have most weekends off to explore the area which offers hiking, rock climbing, fishing, canoeing, etc. I can pay a $2000 stipend for the ten weeks as well as paying for your housing and food at the field station where we will be staying. Experience in identifying plants, particularly wetland species, the ability to spend long hours outdoors in sunny/rainy/buggy conditions, and the ability to get along with others in bunkhouse living conditions are necessary. If you are interested in the position or have any specific questions, please e-mail me and include a copy of your CV or resume. Justin Wright, WrightJ@ECOSTUDIES.ORG, (914) 677-5343. Posted: 5/2/00.
Institute of Ecosystem Studies: We are pleased to announce that we have received the grants needed to offer our Research for Undergraduates Program for 10-11 students here at the Institute of Ecosystem Studies this summer. We have extended our application deadline for this years program to March 1, 2000 (postmark date). Please encourage your students to apply. A brief description follows, and more can be found at: http://www.ecostudies.org/education/reu/reu1.html. Independent Research in Ecology for Undergraduates Institute of Ecosystem Studies, Millbrook, New York Summer - 2000. Experience the entire research process, from problem formulation to final report. Students carry out independent research projects of their own design under the guidance of a mentor scientist. Discover these important aspects of scientific inquiry: science is a community activity; there are many ways to address scientific problems; all research has a theoretical context; and all research has a societal context. Three programs supplement the research experience during the summer: (1) a series of workshops on research methods, (2) seminars, discussions and case studies focusing on the various contexts of science, and (3) a forum on career opportunities in ecology. The twelve-week program begins May 30 and runs through August 22, 2000. Each student makes an oral presentation at the Undergraduate Research Symposium and submits a final paper for inclusion in an Institute Occasional Publication. Projects offered for 2000: Are effects of soil pH on sapling shade-tolerance mediated by root associates? Dr. Seth Bigelow. Microbial processes of urban ecosystems. Dr. Peter Groffman. Ecology and behavior of pearly mussels. Dr. David L. Strayer. Predation and food competition between zebra mussels and zooplankton. Dr. Michael L. Pace. Isoprene from plants and atmospheric chemistry. Drs. Clive G. Jones and Manuel T. Lerdau. Groundwater ecology. Dr. Stuart E.G. Findlay. Ecological functions of Hudson River marshes. Dr. Stuart E.G. Findlay. White-footed mice, tree seeds, ectoparasites, and community dynamics in oak forests. Drs. Felicia Keesing and Richard Ostfeld. Community structure and function in streams at the Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest. Drs. Robert S. Stelzer, James H. McCutchan, Jr. and Gene E. Likens. Eligibility and compensation: Undergraduate freshmen, sophomores, juniors or first semester seniors, are eligible to apply. Applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of the U.S. or its possessions. Participants receive a $3000 stipend for the twelve- week program, and receive housing in an Institute dormitory at a discounted rate of $250 for the summer. Some assistance is available for travel to and from the program. For more information and to apply (applications must be postmarked by 1 March 2000): Look at our website (above) or contact Heather Dahl, our Undergraduate Research Program Assistant, at (914) 677-9150. Posted: 2/18/00.
Konza Prairie LTER: Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) 2000 Program Konza Prairie Natural Research Area. We anticipate offering 10 REU positions to highly-motivated undergraduates interested in obtaining summer research experience in the ecological sciences. The research will take place at the Konza Prairie LTER site, on ecological projects that can range in scope from physiological to ecosystem-level studies, from aquatic to terrestrial systems, and from environmental history to biogeochemistry. The positions include a stipend, 2 college credits, student privileges, and funds to cover housing, research needs, and travel to attend a national research meeting. The Konza REU program is from 29 May to 12 August 2000. Students will be selected on the basis of academic records and diversity of interests and background. The application deadline is 4 February 1999. Interested students may access application materials and more information at http://climate.konza.ksu.edu/general/reu.html. Hardcopy version of application materials and additional information can also be obtained by contacting: Dr. Eva Horne, REU Project Director, Division of Biology, Kansas State University, 232 Ackert Hall, Manhattan, KS 66506, phone: (785) 532- 5929 or email: ehorne@ksu.edu. Posted: 1/5/00.
Marine Biological Laboratory: The Ecosystems Center of the Marine Biological Laboratory currently has 2 positions available beginning May 1, 2000 as field assistants on a joint project between the Ecosystems Center and the Massachusetts Chapter of The Nature Conservancy. DUTIES: The successful applicant will examine the roles of suburban residential development, fire history and different techniques for restoring historic shrubland vegetation in coastal Massachusetts. Responsibilities include fieldwork measuring vegetation structure, species composition, biomass, water balance and soil chemistry in suburban habitats and in forest subjected to different regimes of prescribed burning; historical library research on previous land use and fire history; laboratory chemical analysis of plant tissue and soils; computer data entry and data management. SKILLS/EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: Successful applicant will be expected to live for most of the summer at The Nature Conservancy's recently renovated Hoft Farm field station on Martha's Vineyard (rent subsidized). Should be a college undergraduate. Minimum requirements are a major in biology, chemistry or environmental studies. Candidates with some practical experience in environmental science or chemistry will be preferred. We encourage applicants with particular skills in the following areas: field botany, environmental chemistry, geographical information systems, use of dataloggers and ecological modeling. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Applicants must be capable of working long hours under some difficult field conditions including sampling in dense brush and during inclement weather. APPLICATION DEADLINE: Review of applications will begin mid March, 2000. Deadline for applications is April 15, 2000. To Apply: Marine Biological Laboratory, ATTN: Human Resources reference [SFA FE], 7 MBL Street, Woods Hole, MA 02543; phone, (508) 289-7422, email at: resume@mbl.edu. An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer/Non-smoking workplace. Posted: 2/18/00.
Marine Biological Laboratory: The Ecosystems Center of the Marine Biological Laboratory is seeking applicants for one or two individuals to participate in field research at the Toolik Lake Long-Term Ecological Research site in Northern Alaska. These positions are supported by the National Science Foundation's Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program are available only to undergraduates who are currently enrolled in U.S. colleges and universities. DUTIES: The successful applicants will be involved in vegetation and soil sampling and analysis in a variety of manipulated tundra ecosystems. REU students are also expected to take particular responsibility for collection and analysis of a data set for presentation in a poster session at the end of the summer. SKILLS, EDUCATION/EXPEIENCE REQUIRED: Applicants should have completed basic coursework in biology, chemistry and ideally ecology or ecosystem studies. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Applicants should be in good health and capable of rigorous physical activity (working outside in occasionally severe weather, walking long distances over rough terrain, often carrying heavy or awkward equipment). Applicants should be prepared to live in an isolated setting where cooperation with others is essential and living accommodations are spare and simple. CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT: This position is funded by the National Science Foundation and is open only to U.S. citizens or permanent residents who are undergraduates (sophomores or juniors) currently enrolled at U.S. colleges and universities (those graduating in Spring 2000 are ineligible). Applicants should be able to travel to Alaska by early June 10, and remain until August 25, 2000. In addition to a stipend, support for each position includes living expenses while in Alaska and costs of travel to and from Alaska. DEADLINE: Until a suitable candidate is identified. Interested applicants please send a cover letter, resume and the names, addresses, telephone numbers and email addresses of 3 references to: Marine Biological Laboratory, ATTN Human Resources reference [REU Alaska], 7 MBL Street, Woods Hole, MA 02543. Applications may be sent by email to: resume@mbl.edu. An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Non-smoking Workplace. Posted: 3/6/00
Marine Biological Laboratory: The Ecosystems Center of the Marine Biological Laboratory is seeking applicants for 3 summer field assistant positions on an ongoing ecological research project. DUTIES: · Streams Summer FA: The successful candidate will participate in research on arctic tundra stream ecosystems at Toolik Field Station in northern Alaska. Duties will include monitoring physical parameters in streams, collection and analysis of water samples, benthic samples and juvenile and adult fish; · Lakes Summer FA: The successful candidate will participate in field research on a series of lakes at the Toolik Field Station in northern Alaska. Duties will include taking physical and chemical measurements in lakes, collection and analysis of water samples; · Land-Water Summer FA: The successful candidate will participate in field research on a tussock watershed at the Toolik Field Station in northern Alaska. Duties will include measurement of carbon and nutrient flux from streams, lakes and terrestrial ecosystems. SKILLS/EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: Applicants should be recent college graduates or advanced undergraduates with significant course work and/or field experience in ecology. Some background in aquatic ecology, hydrology, chemistry, fish ecology and/or ecosystems ecology preferred. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Applicants should be in good health, capable of rigorous physical activity (e.g., working long hours outside in potentially severe weather, walking long distances over rough terrain, often carrying heavy equipment). Applicants should be prepared to live in a setting where cooperation with others is essential and living accommodations are spare and simple. CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT: In addition to a salary, support for each position includes living expenses while in Alaska and costs of travel to and from Alaska. Candidate should be available for travel to Alaska by June 10, 2000 and should be able to remain in Alaska until at least August 21. Travel and living expenses will be paid in addition to a salary. APPLICATION DEADLINE: Until suitable candidates are identified. To Apply: Send a cover letter, resume, name, addresses, telephone numbers and email addresses of 3 references to: Marine Biological Laboratory, ATTN: Human Resources, reference code: [SFA ECO3], 7 MBL Street, Woods Hole, MA 02543; phone, (508) 289-7422, email at: resume@mbl.edu. An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer/Non-smoking workplace. Posted: 3/17/00.
Marine Biological Laboratory: The Ecosystems Center of the Marine Biological Laboratory is seeking applicants for two positions to participate in field, laboratory and modeling studies of N cycling in New England Forests. These positions are supported by the National Science Foundations' Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program and are available only to undergraduates who are currently enrolled in U.S. colleges and universities. DUTIES: One position will be based at the Ecosystems Center in Woods Hole, Mass and one will be based at the University of Maryland's Appalachian Laboratory in Frostburg, Maryland. Both applicants will be expected to make field trips to Massachusetts and Maine to collect plant, soil and solution samples from research plots. Successful applicants will work on a variety of research tasks and will be encouraged to conduct a summer project that is linked to the overall project. SKILLS/EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: Applicants should have completed basic coursework in biology, chemistry and ideally ecology or ecosystem studies. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Applicants should be in good health, capable of rigorous physical activity, working outside in occasionally severe weather, walking long distances over rough terrain, tree climbing, etc.). CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT: This position is funded by the National Science Foundation and is open only to U.S. citizens or permanent residents who are enrolled as undergraduates (sophomores or juniors) at U.S. colleges and universities (Spring 2000 graduates are ineligible). Successful applicants must be available to start a 3 month appointment between May 15 and June 5, 2000. APPLICATION DEADLINE: Until suitable candidates are identified. Interested applicants send a cover letter, resumes, transcripts and the names, addresses, telephone numbers and email addresses of 3 references to: Marine Biological Laboratory, ATTN: Human Resources reference code [SREU Forest 15N], 7 MBL Street, Woods Hole, MA 02543. Applications may be sent by email to: resume@mbl.edu. Posted: 4/14/00.
Michigan State University: 1-2 summer positions: Forest Ecology Field/Lab Technician. Start: ASAP. End: September 2000 (with possibility of extension). Pay: $7.50-10.50/hr for full time depending on experience and education. DESCRIPTION: Assist in forest ecology research experiments in field and laboratory settings. Duties include: data collection, establishment and maintenance of experimental sites, sample processing, and data entry. The job will require several multi-day trips to the field at locations throughout the Great Lakes region. Ongoing experiments include: tree regeneration dynamics in mature red pine plantations and their implications for future management options, the impacts of deer on forest stand dynamics and, the whole-plant physiological ecology of nutrient use by maples (see http://www.for.msu.edu/ for other details on M. Walters research interests). DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS: University student or graduate including some classes in forest biology/ecology is preferred, although students in other areas with strong quantitative/analytical emphases are encouraged to apply). A willingness to work long days outdoors in all kinds of weather. The ability to collect and maintain accurate and neat data records. Proficient with computers, map reading and compassing, and an aptitude for learning how to use field ecology/physiological ecology instrumentation. NOTE: The positions are designed for someone that enjoys both field a lab work. However, since there are two positions available, there is some flexibility in duties. Thus people primarily interested in travelling and participating in fieldwork, or in laboratory work in East Lansing are also encouraged to apply. HOW TO APPLY: (e-mail applications are acceptable) Send a cover letter, an unofficial copy of your college transcripts, a resume including work experience and the names, phone numbers, and email addresses (if available), of two references to: Dr. Mike Walters, Department of Forestry, Natural Resources Building, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, or e-mail at: mwalters@pilot.msu.edu. Posted: 4/27/00.
Missouri Department of Conservation: Wildlife Research Technicians (10 positions). DURATION: 22 May 2000- 31 July 2000. $7.82/hour/40 hours per week. Applications are being accepted to fill ten temporary positions at the Conservation Research Center, Columbia, Missouri. Successful applicants will be stationed throughout north central and northeast Missouri. Housing may be provided. HOW TO APPLY: Submit a resume, cover letter, and names and phones numbers of 3 references reflecting a complete record of education and experience to Vicki Heidy or Marc Bagley, Missouri Department of Conservation, 1110 South College Avenue, Columbia, MO 65201. FAX (573/882-4517). E-mail:heidyv@mail.conservation.state.mo.us. Incomplete application materials will not be considered. Applications must be received by 5:00 p.m., Friday, March 24, 2000. The best qualified applicants will be determined based on the information shown on the resume, and will be interviewed by telephone. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Employees will join in a study to assess changes in vegetation structure and plant species composition for select USDA conservation practices. Employees will be responsible for vegetation monitoring on private land in 11 north Missouri counties. Vegetation monitoring will be conducted using Daubenmire frame and Robel pole quadrat techniques. QUALIFICATIONS: Graduation from (or enrollment in) an accredited college or university with course emphasis in wildlife management, zoology, or closely related subjects. Employee must be able to work well in small groups and in relatively unsupervised settings. Must also be able to work independently at field locations despite occasional adverse field conditions. Employee must be able to travel weekly throughout north Missouri. Employee must be licensed to operate a motor vehicle. Employee must possess the ability to learn to operate an All Terrain Vehicle (ATV). Employee must be able to interact comfortably with landowners and personnel from various agencies. Posted: 2/28/00.
Oregon State University: Summer Jobs in Forest Ecology in the Pacific Northwest. Field crew positions are available to assist with long-term ecological studies in forests of western Oregon and Washington. Crews will participate in the Demonstration of Ecosystem Management Options (DEMO) study-- a large-scale, interdisciplinary experiment to test forest ecosystem responses to alternative silvicultural approaches in Pacific Northwest forests. For more information about the DEMO study, see our web site: http://www.fs.fed.us/pnw/demo/. Crews will remeasure permanent plots at six locations in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, WA, Capitol State Forest, WA, and Umpqua N.F., OR. Responsibilities will include assessments of tree mortality, measurements of tree seedling and sapling growth, and sampling of forest understory composition and structure. These field positions are best suited to upper-level undergraduates or recent graduates who are giving serious consideration to advanced study or professional work in field botany or plant ecology. The locations of the sites and the nature of the work will require extended periods in the field (up to eight consecutive days). Bunkhouse or trailer accommodations will be available for portions of the summer, but camping may be necessary at other times. Hiring will be done by both Oregon State University and the University of Washington. QUALIFICATIONS: Familiarity with the flora of western Oregon; coursework in plant taxonomy or ecology; previous experience in sampling forest understory vegetation; and the ability to utilize taxonomic keys and to collect/catalog specimens. In addition to these skills and experiences, we seek individuals who can attend to details, have legible handwriting, are able and willing to work long hours under strenuous field conditions, and can work and live cooperatively with others. SALARY: $9.00/hr or more, depending on experience/qualifications. DURATION: ~23 June - 30 September 2000. CLOSING DATE: 15 March 2000. TO APPLY: Send (1) a HANDWRITTEN cover letter; (2) a typewritten resume; (3) copies of either college transcripts or professional work products; and (4) two letters of reference. The cover letter should include information about your interests and qualifications, your dates of availability, and the names and phone numbers of those who will provide letters of reference. ALL APPLICATION MATERIALS SHOULD BE SENT TO: David Phillips, Richardson Hall 302, Department of Forest Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331. FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: David Phillips: E-mail: David.Phillips@orst.edu; Phone: 541-737-6596, or Shelley Evans: E-mail: saevans@u.washington.edu; Phone: 206-543-9792. Posted: 1/21/00.
Pennsylvania State University: Undergraduate Summer Research Fellowships in "Radical" Biology. Several undergraduate summer fellowships are available at Penn State to participate in an interdisciplinary research training program in Advanced Root Biology during June-July 2000. Our program is funded by the National Science Foundation and its goal is to train a new group of plant biologists capable of solving the unique conceptual and technical problems presented by plant roots. The undergraduate trainees will be active participants in our group effort, working directly with faculty, postdocs, and graduate students in a collaborative project of their choice. Projects are available in the following areas: root responses to nutrient stress; root exudates; biosynthesis and biological significance of root-specific secondary metabolites and proteins; mycorrhizal ecophysiology; root life span and turnover; biochemistry and molecular biology of root development; and root-insect interactions. Research facilities include state-of-the-art equipment for plant molecular biology and biotechnology, a fluorescence microscopy and image analysis facility, a mini-rhizotron system, etc. Financial support includes a $2,500 stipend and $600 for living expenses. Applicants please submit curriculum vitae, transcripts, and three letters of recommendation to: Dr. David Eissenstat, 218 Tyson Building, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802; telephone 814-863-3371, fax 814-863-6139, e-mail dme9@psu.edu. Women and minorities are especially encouraged to apply. The deadline for Summer Research Fellowship application is February 28, 2000 (available to U.S. citizens and residents only).
Southwest Texas State University: Several NSF-funded summer research experiences for undergraduates (REU) positions are available to qualified students interested in conducting research in savanna ecology. Students will be based at Southwest Texas State University (SWT) and will conduct independent field research projects in support of a collaborative research project between investigators at SWT and Texas A&M University that is examining woody plant interactions in southern Texas savannas and woodlands. Qualifications: Jr. or Sr. standing with major in Biology, Botany, Rangeland Ecology or related field. Prior coursework in ecology and botany is essential and some familiarity with computers, statistics and data processing is desirable. Requirements: Individuals must be able and willing to, 1) conduct field studies under extreme summer field conditions in southern Texas (AC bunkhouse and laboratory facilities are available on-site), 2) work with other students and researchers in a collaborative research situation, 3) prepare and submit a final written report of their research as part of an independent research project to be taken for credit (at student's home institution) during the Fall 2000 term, and 4) present their findings at the annual SWT Biology Student Colloquium. Support: 3 months (May 15 - August 15, 2000) of summer stipend support ($1,000/month), plus travel expenses to the field site (Texas A&M La Copita Research Area, located 50 miles west of Corpus Christi, Texas). Application: Interested students should contact: Dr. Paul W. Barnes, Department of Biology, Southwest Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas 78666; Phone: 512-245-3753; Email: pb03@swt.edu, for additional information and application materials. http://www.bio.swt.edu/barnes/NSF-REU.html. Application Deadline: April 15, 2000. Posted: 3/27/00.
University of Alaska Southeast: UAS offers research experiences to undergraduate students interested in the physiology, ecology, and behavior of marine organisms. In addition to the Juneau area, field research projects take place in Glacier Bay National Park, the Gulf of Alaska, and the Arctic Ocean. Students will conduct research under the guidance of UAS Biology faculty or collaborating research scientists. The program is supported with funds from the National Science Foundation and UAS. Participants will receive a stipend of $325 per week and campus housing while in Juneau. Travel and subsistence costs within Alaska will also be provided. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and enrolled as undergraduate students at accredited institutions. The program seeks academically strong students interested in marine biological research. Minority applicants are especially encouraged. Applications received by MARCH 30, 2000 will receive priority consideration. (See web site address below for application information.) For more information on this program, please see our web site: http://www.uas.alaska.edu/uas/biology/nsf.html or contact Elizabeth Mathews, Assistant Professor of Biology, beth.mathews@uas.alaska.edu. Posted: 3/6/00.
University of Miami: Three seasonal ecological research assistant/internship positions are available for part of or the entire field season from 17 April through August 2000 to assist in ecological reseach. Application Deadline: ARPIL 1 2000. LOCATION: Sonoran Desert near Bahia de Kino, Sonora, Mexico. QUALIFICATIONS: Ability to manage multiple task, work independently and as a team member, and attention to details. Computer skills and experience with data bases (i.e., Excel) and data management are desirable. Ability to work irregular hours under sometimes harsh, hot environmental conditions. Spanish not required but is preferable. Background in ecology, plant biology, and entomology is preferable. DUTIES: Assist in the collection and management of data in both field and laboratory studies of mutualistic interactions between a cactus and its specialized moth pollinator. Research studies to be conducted include pollination experiments, life history of moth, pollination behavior of moths, and population dynamics of moths, among others. Food, lodging, and assistance with travel will be provided. Lodging will be in a house on the beach of Bahia de Kino, approximately 5-10 kilometers from study sites. APPLICATION: Cover letter, resume, and name/addresses/telephone/ email of three references should be submitted by FAX or ground mail by APRIL 1. CONTACT: J. Nathaniel Holland, Dept. of Biology, University of Miami, P.O. Box 249118, Coral Gables, FL 33124; 305-284-3973; jholland@fig.cox.miami.edu Posted: 3/10/00.
University of North Carolina: Summer &/or fall 2000. Field Assistant in Community Ecology / Field Biology: Fire-maintained pinelands of northwestern Florida. We seek a motivated, hard-working individual to serve as a field research assistant, working with plant ecologists from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Louisiana State University. RESEARCH GOALS: The overall goal of this research project is to identify and quantitatively describe the vegetation of the best remaining examples of the fire-maintained longleaf pine ecosystems of Florida. The resultant data initially will form the basis of a classification of longleaf pine vegetation to be used for conservation, inventory and research purposes. Ultimately the data will contribute to a synthetic treatment of the fire-maintained pinelands of the Southeastern United States. DATES: Negotiable. We expect to start work shortly after June 1, 2000 and continue into November. We are willing to consider candidates who are available only for the summer or only for the fall. The position will remain open until filled. QUALIFICATIONS: Applicants should have or be working toward a B.S. or B.A. in ecology, botany, biology, soil science, forestry, or a related field. Experience in field methods, data handling and plant identification would be helpful. Applicants should be highly motivated (especially under harsh field conditions), reliable, independent, adaptable, not adverse to manual labor or flexible work schedules, and willing to learn sampling methods and plant identification. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: The primary responsibilities will include: recording plant abundance data, collecting and processing plant specimens and soil samples, setting up permanent plots, recording GPS points, entering data, and driving long distances, often in remote areas. The majority of the assistant's time will be spent in the field, during the hot, humid Florida summer and early fall. Applicants must be able to tolerate hot temperatures, long periods of standing, bending over, and walking. Applicants should be able to acclimate to less than luxurious accommodations. Research sites are scattered across the state of Florida. Because of the continuity of this field project, and the large extent of the study area (much of the state), the assistant will be required to relocate to Florida for the duration of the appointment. Field days are likely to last up to 12 hours and vary according to weather conditions. BENEFITS: Benefits include salary of $320 per week (approximately $8/hr) and travel expenses. Living expenses and arrangements will be provided, and accommodations during "off-time" will be available in Gainesville, Florida and perhaps elsewhere. We will be sampling in best longleaf pine savannas and forests remaining in Florida. Our research project is large in scope, and will offer opportunity for invaluable experience in field ecology. In addition, the assistant will gain skills in plant and soil identification, study design, and analysis. This position is ideal for someone considering further study in ecology, and would allow exposure to the questions and methods of ecological research. This position could potentially lead to a graduate research project in community ecology, depending on the applicant's interest and commitment. The project is being conducted in collaboration with various conservation organizations, which could lead to important contacts and future job possibilities. TO APPLY: Send a resume, list of course work, and names, phone number and email addresses of three references to the address below. Also include a cover letter describing your experience and qualifications: Dr. Robert K. Peet, Department of Botany, CB#3280, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-3280. For more information about the position, contact either Dr. Peet (phone 919-962-6942; email at peet@unc.edu), or Susan Carr (email sucarr@attglobal.net). Posted: 5/9/00.
University of Notre Dame: Lab and Field Assistant in Wetland Ecosystems. We are in need of a full-time lab and field assistant from either June 1 to August 30 or June 15 to September 15. The position is for 40 hours per week at $7.05 an hour. We will spend June at the University of Notre Dame and July and some of August at UNDERC, the university's field station in Upper Peninsula of Michigan which borders the Ottawa National Forest. There is no experience required for this position. We are looking for a candidate that has an interest in ecology and is physically fit. The project is looking at nutrient cycling and plant communities. More specifically we will be finishing a project looking at the effects of soil carbon quality on nutrient cycling and plant communities. If you are interested in this position, please contact Laurie Kellogg at kellogg.6@nd.edu. Posted: 5/12/00.
University of Notre Dame: Student Research Assistant needed. We are seeking a highly self-motivated person to assist with a large research project looking at the effects of fertilization on plant communities and nutrient dynamics in boreal peatlands at the Notre Dame research station. The University of Notre Dame field station is located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan surrounded by the Ottawa National Forest and wilderness areas. Duties will include collection of plant and soil samples, plant identification, and nutrient analysis of all samples. The position can run from either June 1 to August 31 or June 15 to September 15 and pays $7/hour for 40 hours per week. Housing is provided through the summer at the field station. No experience required, only an interest in ecology, the capability of physical work, ability to live well with people you will also be working with and the willingness to work long hours when needed. Please email (preferable) or snail mail a resume and statement of interest with 3 references to Laurie Kellogg (kellogg.6@nd.edu) Department of Biology, P.O. Box 369, Notre Dame, IN 46556. Position deadline 15 April 2000. Posted: 2/21/00.
Yellowstone Ecosystem Studies: seeks qualified Intern for 10 week Field Biology position in Yellowstone National Park Research Project Title: Study of forest regeneration following the 1988 Yellowstone fires Position Title: Biological field technician Location: Lamar Valley in Northeast corner of Yellowstone National Park Stipend: $800-$1000 per month D.O.E. (plus housing at field station in Silvergate Montana, just outside of the Park) Duration: July 1 - Sept. 15 (Due to the late notice of this announcement, the starting and ending dates are somewhat flexible). Project description: Research project is focused on the use of remote sensing to study the regeneration of forests following wildfire. Optical remote sensing (hyperspectral) data and synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data are being used to estimate species composition, biomass, etc. of regenerating forests. Field data on regenerating Lodgepole Pine stands will be gathered for use as training sites and for regressions against remote sensing data. Goals of the research project are to prove the ability to estimate the success of forest regeneration and predict future habitat suitability for forest carnivores. Position description: Field technician will work closely with research scientist and assistant field technicians to gather field data on the regeneration of Lodgepole Pine forests in areas burned during the 1988 Yellowstone fires. Vegetation data gathered will include: species composition, stand density and biomass of regenerating stands. Position requires hiking (both on and off-trail) into remote areas to gather vegetation data. Desired skills: Some experience (field work or coursework) with vegetation sampling and/or plant identification is desirable. Attention to detail and enthusiasm for fieldwork is a must. Ability to work long hours and hike on and off-trail is required. Some backcountry camping will also be required. Skills that will be gained: The intern will gain experience biological field work and in the use of GPS, vegetation sampling techniques, and exposure to use and analysis of remote sensing data. For more information please contact: Kerry Halligan, Research Scientist, Yellowstone Ecosystem Studies, halligan@geog.ucsb.edu, (406)994-7403. Posted: 5/23/00.