Author: Davis, Miranda L.

Field Technician: Herpetofaunal Responses to Forest Restoration -Bankhead National Forest, AL / Nashville, TN

Agency                Tennessee State University, Department of Agricultural and
Environmental Sciences
Location                Bankhead National Forest, AL / Nashville, TN
Job Category            Temporary / Seasonal Position
Salary                  $ 1000 per month
Start Date              May 15, 2021

End Date                August 31, 2021

Application             March 26, 2021
Deadline

Description

The Wildlife Ecology Lab at Tennessee State University (The Wildlife Ecology Lab at TSU) is looking for a seasonal field technician to assist a M.S. student with field sampling of herpetofauna in the William B. Bankhead National Forest in northern Alabama. The focus of the project is to evaluate the impacts of longleaf pine forest restoration on herpetofaunal assemblages. Primary duties will include:
–    Trap maintenance and installation
–    Checking box/pitfall traps daily
–    Handling and processing herpetofauna
–    Occasional green salamander surveys
–    Habitat and vegetation surveys

Other duties include maintaining field equipment as well as the ability to use map, compass, and GPS navigation.

Housing (shared), field equipment and vehicle provided (during work day).

Qualifications  Technicians must be in good physical condition and capable of working in unfavorable environmental conditions (e.g. rain, heat, snake, and tick infested forests, etc..). Preference will be given to applicants with previous field experience and those with experience handling venomous snake species. Technicians must display good communication skills and good judgement. Please note the field housing is remote.

A valid U.S. driver’s license, clean background and positive attitude are                            required.

Upload a single document (as a single .pdf) with (1) cover letter describing interest and relevant experience, (2) a CV/resume, and (3) a list of three professional/academic references with contact information to the Rbrubake@my.tnstate.edu with the subject line “Field Technician”

Contact Person: Rachel Brubaker

Plant Ecology Seasonal Technician, Newton, Georgia

The Jones Center at Ichauway
Plant Ecology Seasonal Technician II

The Plant Ecology lab at the Jones Center at Ichauway invites applications for three  Seasonal Technician positions. Job duties primarily consist of seed collection and processing, but also include collecting long-term vegetation and photopoint data, data entry, and other field and laboratory work as needed. This 3-month position begins no later than mid-May 2021, with the possibility of extension. On-site housing is provided on a limited basis, but is optional. This position will report directly to the Plant Ecology Research Associate.

The 28,000-acre research center is located approximately 30 miles south of Albany, Georgia. The Center’s research, education, and conservation programs focus on ecology and natural resource management. The site includes 16,000 acres of longleaf pine forests, more than 1,000 acres of wetlands, and 26 miles of stream and river ecosystems. For more information visit our web site: The Jones Center at Ichauway.

Job Requirements: Ability to independently follow instructions. Field work requires moderate to strenuous physical activity in the field, under demanding conditions (e.g., heat, high humidity, exposure to poison oak/ivy, and insects). Must have a valid driver’s license.

Qualifications: Undergraduate degree in biology, botany, horticulture, plant ecology, or a related field. Previous experience with seed collection or plant identification in the southeastern U.S. and the use of dichotomous keys is highly desired. Computer and laboratory-related experience is also preferable.

Wages: $11.00 – $15.00 per hour, depending on experience (limited housing available)

Qualified applicants should send a cover letter, resume, list of relevant coursework, list of three references with contact information, and the date they are available to begin working as a single document by email to: jobs@jonesctr.org, Subject: Plant Ecology Seasonal Technician.

For specific questions or more information on this position, contact: Lisa Giencke, Plant Ecology Research Associate, by email: lisa.giencke@jonesctr.org or phone: (229) 734-4706.

The Jones Center at Ichauway aspires to fully embrace equity, diversity, and inclusion. We reject all forms of racism including overt and systemic, prejudice, discrimination or hate toward any race, ethnicity, culture, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, ability, national origin, veteran status, socioeconomic class, religion, or professional status. The Jones Center at Ichauway is an equal opportunity/affirmative action E-verify employer.

Tropical Ecology Research Internships in Paraguay!

*FundaciÃf³n Para La Tierra* is searching for talented and hardworking research interns to join our team in Paraguay for 3 to 6 months. Our internship program provides young biologists an opportunity to step out of the classroom and into the field, gaining hands-on experience running a research project of their own design. Before arriving, our interns are challenged to come up with a research topic, review the relevant literature, and create a methodology with the support of our intern-supervisor. Once in-country, interns are trained in the field techniques required for their project. Whether it’s mist-netting for birds in the early hours of the morning, fishing at mid-day or staying out late hunting for frogs, PLT will make sure that our interns are confident in the methodology needed to move their research forward. Towards the end of the
stay, all our interns give a final presentation in which they share the results of their study with the rest of the research team. The internship program is designed to give young scientists the opportunity to take control of every step of a scientific project. From conception to completion, our interns are in the driver seat.

When was the last time that you were given the opportunity to choose what you wanted to study?

At Para La Tierra, we specialize in training young biologists in the skills they need to enter further education or the job market. Based in Paraguay, the “heart of South America” we are the country’s only year-round research station. Over the past 10 years, we have published over 130 peer-reviewed articles and discovered a few new species for science. Along the way, over 1,000 interns have helped contribute to the better understanding of Paraguay’s understudied habitats.

Our research base is located in the city of Pilar, a beautiful location in the south of Paraguay, and the gateway to the ÃfÂ’eembucÃfº Wetland Complex (NWC). The NWC is composed of a mosaic of habitats, including grasslands, marches and humid Chaco. Deep forests lining the rivers and streams running through the area are bursting with wildlife, while river monsters the size of small cars lurk in the murky waters.

Come discover for yourself what Paraguay has to offer!

Our interns finish the program taking away a long list of newly learned skills, a professional reference, and one heck of an experience to share at their next interview. But they also leave behind a great deal. All of our intern projects are directly involved in conserving this threatened
habitat. The scientific investigations of the area help raise awareness of the ecological importance of ÃfÂ’eembucu at both the national and international levels. The most successful projects are published in scientific journals, further raising the profile of Paraguay, and many
interns make their way onto the author line for the first time in their early careers through their work with Para La Tierra.

The application period is rolling and there are no start or end dates, so the trip can be organized to suit the project and the person. Interns must be available to stay for a minimum of three months.

Applicants must be over 18 years old and have or be working towards a degree in a biology related subject. Conversational English is required. To apply please email your CV to paralatierra.py@gmail.com.

Costs âÂEUR”  $925 per month for the first two months and $875 for each subsequent month.

Para La Tierra charges interns to cover costs of room and board. The price includes all living costs during their stay with us. Interns receive three meals a day, a bed in shared accommodation with hot showers and access to WiFi. The fee also covers the use of PLTâÂEURÂ(tm)s scientific equipment, minor administrative costs associated with the stay, and a small contribution to Para La Tierra’s conservation and education projects.

Do not hesitate to visit our website (Para La Tierra) and social media pages, and to contact us if you are interested in this unique opportunity!

ArizonaStateU.SummerREU.MammalianGenomics

We are seeking 2-4 undergraduate students to virtually join our lab
for Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) positions in the
summer of 2021 (June 14-August 20, 2021). The positions are supported
through the National Science Foundation (NSF) and participants will
receive a $4000 stipend, and will be expected to participate part-time
(20hr/week). Because the position is virtual, there is no limit on the
geographical location of the student, however, due to our funding source,
we are limited to individuals who are U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals,
or permanent residents of the United States and students who have not
yet graduated from their undergraduate institution.

REU students will collaborate with our lab members to complete research
projects in computational genetics. Potential projects center around using
genomics as a tool to understand mammalian health and evolution¡Vour
lab primarily studies dogs and monkeys. The only expectation we have
for the incoming student-researchers is to have some familiarity with
genetics (e.g. an undergraduate genetics course). Students will receive
mentoring as they learn the computational biological skills (including
coding with command line and R) to analyze molecular data from non-human
primates or dogs, as well as the communication and data visualization
skills to present their findings to colleagues. More details about
on-going projects in the Snyder-Mackler (SMack) lab can be found on our
website¡¦s research <https://smack-lab.com/research/> and publications
<https://smack-lab.com/publications/> pages.

The SMack lab is committed to maintaining and further developing an
equitable and inclusive research environment and we welcome students from
all backgrounds to apply. We are seeking passionate, enthusiastic
undergraduates to join us for this opportunity ¡V no prior research
experience required!

If interested, please submit this application
<https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1yiNElAUYmx_nytQnjnt6H-8mMlOr5xoxzV7Hvg3iO8Q>
by
February 28, 2021. Feel free to email the principal investigator
(PI)/faculty member at the head of this recruitment, Dr. Noah
Snyder-Mackler (nsnyderm@asu.edu) with any questions.

UCincinnati.REU.EvolutionEcol

I am writing to let you know about a summer research opportunity for
undergraduate students in the Department of Biological Sciences at the
University of Cincinnati – the National Science Foundation-sponsored
Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Site in Sensory Ecology. Our
program is focused on research at the intersection of neurobiology,
behavior, ecology and evolution, and is directed at understanding
how animals sense and respond to their environment at functional and
evolutionary levels. Sophomore and junior Biology major students will be
chosen to join active lab groups for the summer and conduct cutting edge
research over a broad spectrum of topics in sensory ecology, including:

*   Genomics and development of sensory systems
*   Neural mechanisms of sensory system function
*   Sensory perception and behavioral influences of the physical
environment
*   Neuroethology
*   Animal communication
*   Behavioral ecology of animal movement and dispersal

An educational program will develop student research and professional
skills and prepare them for graduate school or careers.

*   ~10 weeks in summer (June 1 – Aug 6, 2021)
*   Students will receive a summer stipend plus dorm and meal expenses
*   Students will work in labs, interact w/ faculty mentors, post-docs
and grad students
*   Weekly group seminars and meetings for students (e.g., career
development, responsible research conduct, science
communication training)
*   Social events for students (e.g., trips to Cincinnati Zoo,
Reds baseball)
*   Concluding student research “mini-symposium” presentation session

Student applicants will be selected based on multiple
criteria. Applications for the REU program will be screened by a committee
to select individuals whose interests are well-matched with faculty
in the program. Emphasis will be placed on faculty recommendations and
student statements, along with academic performance and other indicators
of future research success. Note: Implementation of the REU program is
contingent on National Science Foundation funding.

The application review will begin March 12, 2021,
and will close March 24. Students can apply online at:
https://www.artsci.uc.edu/departments/biology/special-programs/reu.html

 

Schoodic Institute at Acadia National Park hiring seasonal technicians!

Schoodic Institute at Acadia National Park is excited to announce the posting of three seasonal field ecology technician positions. The positions will be located in scenic Winter Harbor, Maine, with work in Acadia National Park, and along the coast of Maine. Please visit for the full description of the positions as well as the application instructions.    

Dolores River Restoration Strike Team Crew Member; Colorado

Title: Dolores River Restoration Strike Team Crew Member
Location: Based out of Durango, CO
Status: Seasonal, Full-time
Start/end date: April 19, 2021 – October 29, 2021
Wages: $435 / week
Benefits: AmeriCorps Education Award. U.S. Forest Service recognized Chainsaw training (Certificate awarded upon completion of program). Colorado pesticide applicator examination and licensure. Food provided while in the field, uniforms, and personal protective equipment.
Deadline: Open until filled – 2 positions available

Program Summary:
The Southwest Conservation Corps (SCC) is a program of the non-profit service organization, Conservation Legacy, that is built on the legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) that operated from 1933 – 1942. SCC provides youth and young adults opportunities to complete conservation projects on public lands. While serving with SCC, members receive training on job skills, conflict resolution, leadership, teamwork, and environmental stewardship. Programs are developed using a step ladder approach to provide a progression of skill development based on a member’s needs. Members receive a weekly living allowance, training, and an AmeriCorps Education Award (for qualifying individuals).
Position Summary:
This Strike Team will work with the Montrose County invasive weed management program and as part of the Dolores River Restoration Partnership (DRRP). The DRRP is a public-private collaborative of conservation corps, non-profits, BLM managers, private landowners, and other community members surrounding the Dolores River watershed. The DRRP is in year 11 of an ambitious effort to treat invasive plant species along 175 miles of the Dolores River corridor. The primary responsibilities of this crew are to treat noxious weeds, maintain and participate in revegetation activities such as seeding and planting, collect vegetation monitoring and survey data, and perform general restoration activities as needed. This crew is designed to be flexible to meet the evolving needs of Montrose county and the DRRP. Flexibility and adaptability are essential for this Strike Team leader position.

This position is an AmeriCorps crew member on a 3-person crew (1 leader, 2 members). While working (i.e. on-hitch), the crew will camp together, prepare all meals together, and work together as a group to complete all projects and chores. Hitch schedules may vary between 4 days on, 3 days off or 5 days on, 2 days off. There may be instances where this crew will work longer hitches, either 8 days on, 6 days off or 10 days on, 4 days off. SCC does not provide accommodations off-hitch and crew members will be responsible for their own accommodations during that time.

For the health and safety of our crews, staff and communities, projects may be postponed due to COVID-19.  The information provided is an outline of how our program has typically been operating, however is subject to change. As this situation develops, and decisions are made, we will provide updates. We encourage you to continue with the application process and we will keep consistent and direct communication with all applicants.

Minimum Qualifications
To qualify, you must be between the ages of 18 and 30, have a clean driving record (insurable by SCC), have had a driver’s license for at least 3 years, a current driver’s license, and be a US citizen that has received (or on track to receive) a high school diploma or GED. First Aid/CPR required. All offers of employment are conditional upon completion of an acceptable check of the National Sex Offender Public Registry and federal criminal background check.

Must be physically capable of standing and walking (at a minimum 6 miles/day on rough, uneven terrain), bending, crouching and stooping for long periods of time, and lifting/carrying items that weigh up to 40 pounds, in upwards of 100+ degree (F) heat.

Preferred Qualifications
The ideal candidates for this position have knowledge of native and invasive plants in the southwest, and some experience with herbicide use, treatment of invasive plants, and vegetation monitoring/field data collection. Experience working independently and with a team in the outdoors, including navigating to sites with a team, is also preferred.  A relevant Bachelors degree as well as GPS and GIS experience are a plus.

Participant Essential Eligibility Requirements
Essential eligibility requirements for the program must be met. If you are unable to meet certain requirements, we may be able to assist you with some modification unless it alters the fundamental nature of the program, compromises the health and safety of participants or staff, or places an undue financial or administrative burden on the organization. These requirements are written the same for all positions and therefore may not apply directly to your particular position:

Participant and Expedition Behavior

*   Work effectively as a member of a team despite potentially stressful and difficult conditions. This may require problem solving on an interpersonal or group level as well as a willingness to accept differences.
*   Willingness and ability to complete all aspects of the program, including conservation projects, education, training and national service. Members must commit to participating in all crew activities, including service days in local communities where applicable.
*   Effectively communicate ideas and concerns as they arise directly to supervisors, colleagues and organization staff.
*   Have the cognitive ability to learn necessary skills and apply them to effectively carry out the service work requirements.
*   Contribute to a safe learning environment; no harrassment of others for any reason.
*   Appropriately represent SCC and AmeriCorps to the public and project partners at all time.

Safety and Judgement

*   Effectively communicate danger to others in the form of either a warning of danger others may be encountering or a notification of personal distress, injury or need for assistance. You must be able to do so at a distance of up to 50 meters and in conditions with limited visibility or loud background noise such as darkness or high winds.
*   Effectively perceive, understand and follow direction by others so that you will be able to successfully execute appropriate and perhaps unfamiliar techniques to manage hazards. These directions may be given before the hazard is encountered or may need to be given during exposure to the hazard.
*   Stay alert and focused for several hours at a time while traveling and working in varied weather conditions.
*   Perceive and comprehend significant and apparent hazards, including those hazards previously identified by others.
*   Respond appropriately to stress or crises.
*   If taking prescription medications, participants must be able to maintain proper dosage by self-medicating without assistance from others.

Environmental Ethics & Outdoor Skills

*   Learn and practice Leave No Trace ethics and techniques.
*   Learn and safely perform fundamental outdoor living/travel and work skills as appropriate to the project. Remain adequately hydrated, fed, and properly dressed as to remain generally healthy and safe, avoiding environmental injuries.
*   Live in a physically demanding, possibly remote environment for an uninterrupted period of up to several weeks. Conditions of this environment may vary significantly and may include severe and/or trying weather. The remoteness is such that it may require at a minimum one hour, but perhaps in excess of 12 hours, to reach the nearest advanced medical care.

Substance Free

*   In accordance to a drug free workplace, alcohol and drugs are prohibited while participating in AmeriCorps and SCC activities, and while on organization property.

To apply:
Visit apply here, scroll to the Dolores River Crew Member section, click “Apply Here!”, read the ENTIRE position description, and select “New Application” at the bottom. From there, upload resume, cover letter and complete the Crew Member application

Any questions can be addressed to:
Emily Kasyon, Watershed Programs Manager: ekasyon@conservationlegacy.org

Seasonal ecology jobs for undergraduates

The U.S. Geological Survey Southwest Biological Science Center in Flagstaff, AZ is hiring seasonal biological technicians to contribute to research exploring the effects of solar energy development on desert ecosystems. Must be willing to travel (following COVID-19 safety protocols) and work in extreme weather and terrain. Ideal start date is in March-April 2021. Job is open until 2/19/21. Please see job description and apply at this link: Apply