Position: Biological Scientist I for the Soil Microbiology Lab at the UF-IFAS Southwest Florida Research and Education Center

Job No. 514177

Work type: Staff Full-time, permanent position

Description: Conducts research to support the Soil Microbiology program at the Southwest Florida Research and Education Center in Immokalee, FL. The incumbent will assist in one or more phases of the research process by performing a variety of technical duties in the laboratory, greenhouse, and field. Duties will include but are not limited to:

  *   Preparing, maintaining and monitoring experimental trials in the laboratory, greenhouse, and field; collecting, processing, storing and maintaining soil samples from field, greenhouse, and laboratory experiments.

  *   Conducting various standard and specialized microbiology and molecular biology laboratory procedures such as DNA/RNA extraction/purification/quantification, gel electrophoresis, PCR and quantitative PCR, cloning, culturing; maintaining specialized scientific- or other equipment in and outside the laboratory; preparing microbiological media and chemical solutions; maintaining written and digital laboratory notebooks, maintaining laboratory in a way that work can be accomplished safely and efficiently.

  *   Recording, analyzing and summarizing data and preparing graphs and tables using standard or specialized software.

  *   Assisting in the preparation of written reports and publications and reviewing literature pertinent to the research area as deemed appropriate by the P.I.

  *   Assisting with any related duties required, including purchases of supplies and services, as determined by the P.I.

Advertised Salary: 36,000 âÂEUR” 40,000 annually; commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Minimum requirements: Bachelor’s degree in biology or a closely related life science field.

Preferred qualifications:

  *        Knowledge of the terminology, principles and techniques used in biological research.

  *        Knowledge of basic principles of microbiology and/or soil sciences.

  *        Knowledge of agricultural production systems such as citrus and vegetables.

  *        Knowledge of standard laboratory practices.

  *        Skill in various standard laboratory procedures such as pipetting, DNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, bacterial/fungal culturing, maintaining detailed records from experiments.

  *        Skill in various specialized laboratory practices such as quantitative PCR, next generation sequencing.

  *        Ability to process large numbers of samples in an adequate time frame.

  *        Ability to use computer programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and statistical analysis software such as R.

  *        Knowledge of principles of statistics and experimental design.

  *        Ability to plan and coordinate research assignments effectively.

  *        Ability to adhere to safe laboratory and other practices.

  *        Ability to work independently.

  *        Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.

  *        Ability to establish an effective working relationship with others.

  *        Ability to follow rules and regulations.

Additional characteristics of the position:

  *   Working under harsh conditions (such as high heat and humidity) outdoors or in a greenhouse for prolonged periods of time.

  *   Standing, walking or bending for extended periods of time

  *   Lifting moderately heavy objects for short periods of time.

  *   Occasional travel to field sites distant from the research station.

Special instructions to applicants:

Must apply through the UF website:

https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fexplore.jobs.ufl.edu%2Fen-us%2Fjob%2F514177%2Fbiological-scientist-i&data=02%7C01%7Cmadeline.hennessey%40uconn.edu%7C0f9da8971e694801124908d8231f77e2%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C637297965385853485&sdata=xCTfsAqcEgcCQhaZHUG7ftyC6FaTM%2B4z0hpmJnWfpvw%3D&reserved=0

Apply soon! Applications close July 14, 2020

Questions – please contact:

Sarah Strauss, PhD

Assistant Professor, Soil Microbiology

University of Florida – IFAS

Soil and Water Sciences Department

Southwest Florida Research & Education Center

Immokalee, FL 34142

239-658-3468 (office)

239-658-3447 (lab)

strauss@ufl.edu

@SoilMicroSarah

Positions Available: 300-hour (2-month) term between September 8 and November 5, 2020, 900-hour (6-month) term between September 8, 2020 to March 11, 2021, 1200-hour (9-month) term between September 8, 2020 to May 6, 2021.

BACKGROUND: Established in 2014, the Walker Basin Conservancy (WBC) is leading the effort to restore and maintain Walker Lake while protecting agricultural, environmental and recreational interests in the Walker Basin (https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.walkerbasin.org%2F&data=02%7C01%7Cmadeline.hennessey%40uconn.edu%7C947eedb3b62e4ca27a8708d823e88e5b%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C637298829177526119&sdata=22R1myqMpKhVGzbvYc0SQ1TPv3jrMb5Lbs0WJIEw7Z8%3D&reserved=0). The growing and dynamic nature of the WBC and its diverse obligations provide unique opportunities to develop operations from the ground level up, working closely with staff who are passionate about their mission.

The WBC currently manages thousands of acres of land and assets on multiple properties in the Walker Basin, including the Walker River State Recreation Area (parks.nv.gov/parks/walker-river).  Land planning activities are underway and focus on assessing public use opportunities, conservation values, long term land ownership and stewardship, and revegetation and restoration activities.

JOB PURPOSE: The Restoration Team Members will serve alongside other AmeriCorps members and WBC Conservation Technicians conducting primarily invasive species removal and native plant re-vegetation within the Walker River Basin. Members may also work on recreational trail construction, sign installation, and fence construction. Members will work in conjunction with other WBC field staff, providing on the ground support to larger project operations.

A working knowledge of, or a desire to learn more about, desert plant ecology and ecological restoration, nursery or horticultural practices, or agricultural systems and irrigation equipment is essential. The Restoration Team Members should also have a sincere interest in expanding their knowledge of Great Basin Desert ecology, restoration practices, the flora and fauna of Nevada, and agricultural methods and equipment.

LOCATION: Yerington, Nevada is a beautiful rural farming community located approximately 95 miles south of Reno, NV in the foothills of the eastern Sierra mountains. Yerington is small but growing with about 3,100 residents. Established in 1907, the city has heritage and deep roots in agriculture, mining, railroads, and gaming. Some of the nearby attractions, activities and recreational opportunities include:

Camping, biking, hiking, backpacking and paddling Fishing, hunting, boating and OHV trails Flat and white-water boating (1 hour away) Rock hounding and climbing Ghost Town Exploration Ski Resorts (1.5-2 hours away) Lake Tahoe (1.5 hours away) Lahontan Reservoir (30 minutes away) Walker Lake (45 minutes away) Topaz Reservoir (45 minutes away) Yosemite (via Tioga pass, 2.5 hours away) Essential Functions

Under the guidance of a WBC Technician:

Utilizing hand tools and backpack sprayers to conduct invasive plant removal and control.

Utilizing hand and power tools to conduct native plant re-vegetation and restoration.

Utilizing hand and power tools to conduct road decommissioning, recreation trail construction, and sign/fence installation.

Installing, maintaining, and operating a variety of irrigation systems for re-vegetation purposes.

Identify and harvest native plant seeds for use in native plant propagation and re-vegetation.

Communicating effectively and professionally with other members, WBC staff, agency partners, and the public.

Secondary Functions:

Assisting with the management and supervision of community volunteers on WBC conservation projects.

Assisting with the inventory, maintenance, and repair of WBC tools and equipment.

Qualifications

Seasonal positions are open to entry level candidates, no previous conservation experience is required.

Willingness and ability to:

Work outside in unpredictable weather conditions, including extreme temperatures, independently or as part of a team.

Work irregular hours, such as starting early or working more days with shorter hours, in accordance with project specific requirements and conditions.

Bend and crouch for long periods of time and occasionally lift heavy loads or equipment.

The ability to hike to remote locations over uneven ground, tall shrubs, and wetlands.

Use hand and power tools, operate motor vehicles, and work long days on labor intensive projects.

Use chemical herbicides in the treatment and control of invasive weeds while following strict application protocols.

Effective written and oral communication skills.

Meet AmeriCorps Eligibility Requirements, including:

Be at least 17 years of age at the commencement of service; Have a high school diploma or its equivalent; Be a citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States; Pass a National Sex Offender Public Website check and National Service Criminal History Check; and Be eligible to receive and AmeriCorps Education award, with a limit of four total terms in a lifetime and the equivalent of two full-time terms (3400 hours).

Member Training: Members will receive a variety of technical and professional training related to their service activities as well as personal and professional development. Available trainings may include:

First aid and CPR;

Leave no Trace principals;

Native plant identification and revegetation; Invasive species identification and treatment; Irrigation system installation and maintenance; Recreational trail construction; Resume building, USA Jobs, and government application workshop; and Guest speakers on environmental, natural resource, and professional development topics.

Physical and Mental Requirements

Strength, dexterity, coordination, and vision to use tools and equipment for prolonged periods.  Strength and stamina to bend, stoop, sit, and stand for long periods of time.  Strength and dexterity to operate small, medium, and heavy equipment.  Strength and stamina to endure standing and working for long periods of time and in extreme weather conditions.  Strength and stamina to walk to remote locations over uneven ground.  Dexterity and vision to observe oncoming traffic hazards and react quickly to emergency situations.  Some heavy lifting (over 75 pounds) is occasionally required.

In compliance with applicable disability laws, reasonable accommodations may be provided to qualified individuals with a disability who require and request such accommodations.  Applicants and incumbents are encouraged to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

Working Conditions

Members work in an outdoor setting with varying weather conditions, including, but not limited to, extreme heat, dry conditions, rain, snow or hail, and extreme cold.  Members may sometimes be required to camp in the field for the duration of the tour. Camping and worksites will generally be in areas with at least primitive road access for crew vehicles, but the spike camping sites will usually be at undeveloped backcountry sites. Both camp and project sites will generally not have access to potable water, restroom facilities, or cellphone signals, and members will be expected to follow Leave No Trace principals in camp and on project. Project work will frequently require hiking over rough terrain while carrying tools and equipment.

Position may occasionally be required to work around heavy machinery in hazardous environments. Environment is generally dirty, with prolonged exposure to conditions such as dust, fumes, noise, or odors. Frequent interruptions to planned work activities occur.

COVID-19 Pandemic Response

Walker Basin Conservancy has been fortunate to maintain some level of operations through the pandemic. We have multiple levels of strict policies and procedures for safe field operations based on Federal and State guidance which can change on short notice. We make every effort to keep applicants informed about our policies and the current hiring situation, but please be aware that the situation is fluid and any offers are contingent on conditions remaining stable or improving. Should COVID-19 infections worsen or government reinstate restrictions, we may be forced to rescind offers in response. Once members have joined the organization, we have contingency and response plans to handle increases in restriction to ensure you are able to complete service safely.

Compensation & Benefits:

300-hour: Living allowance of $3,060 and Education award of $1,311.11; 900-hour: Living allowance of $9,180 and Education award of $3,097.50; 1200-hour: Living allowance of $11,900 and Education award of $4,336.50; Federal student loan forbearance is available for eligible members; Uniform reimbursement; Per diem when on spike (while camping); Paid personal and sick leave; Paid holidays; Opportunities for extension upon good service; and Opportunities for advancement within the organization.

Housing in Yerington can be difficult to find. WBC has limited and optional housing available for a low monthly rate. Housing accommodations are dorm or bunk style housing with shared bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen areas and common spaces. During the COVID Pandemic, WBC housing may be more limited than usual. Depending on current conditions in Nevada and Governor mandates we may have to limit or restrict access to group housing for the safety of employees. We have alternate policies and procedures in place for members who are living in their own housing to allow for continued participation even I f we are not able to offer housing. We will discuss options and the current situation during the interview process, but please know that WBC housing may not be readily available.

HOW TO APPLY

Positions will remain open until filled. Only top candidates will be contacted.

Local applicants are STRONGLY encouraged to apply.

To Apply, please send cover letter and resume to:

Amy Gladding

amy.gladding@walkerbasin.org

Subject Line: 2-Month, 6-Month or 9-Month Restoration Team Member

All applicants must also submit an Employment Application Acknowledgement form that can be found on our website at: https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walkerbasin.org%2Fjoin-our-team&data=02%7C01%7Cmadeline.hennessey%40uconn.edu%7C947eedb3b62e4ca27a8708d823e88e5b%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C637298829177526119&sdata=MNpdNe0IPSswcBMn4jArtUoXER4VUsjiwtxe47s0oi4%3D&reserved=0

Please call or email Miguel Gonzales, AmeriCorps Program Manager, at (775) 463-9887 ext. 110 or Miguel.Gonzales@WalkerBasin.org with questions.

Walker Basin Conservancy is an equal opportunity employer. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.  The above functions may be completed with or without reasonable accommodations.  This program prohibits discrimination based on race, religion, creed, color, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, political affiliation or disability.

Equal Opportunity Statement – Walker Basin Conservancy is an equal opportunity employer. WBC does not discriminate against any employee, applicant, director, officer, contractor, or any other person with whom it deals because of race, creed, color, disability, age, sex, veteran status, religion or political affiliation. WBC complies with all federal and local statutes prohibiting discrimination in employment.

Reasonable accommodations may be provided for qualified individuals with a disability.

Disclaimer – The statements contained herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work to be performed by the employees in these positions. The statements are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of a person in each position. Other responsibilities, duties, and skills may be assigned and management retains the right to add or change the responsibilities, duties, and skills at any time.

Wildlife Technician: Ya Ha Tinda Research Project- AB, Canada

Employer: University of Montana & University of Alberta

Location: Ya Ha Tinda Ranch, Clearwater County, AB Canada Job Category: Wildlife Technician (4-month appointment with possible extension)

Salary:  $15-19/hour (Canadian), depending on experience Start Date: 08/01/2020 (may be flexible) Last date to Apply: 07/17/2020

 

Background:

The Ya Ha Tinda Long-Term Elk Monitoring Project is a collaborative research effort between the University of Montana, University of Alberta, Parks Canada, and Alberta Environment and Parks. This project is the longest running elk research project in North America with over 19 years of data on elk movement, migration, and reproduction. The main goal of the project is to monitor adult elk survival and cause-specific mortality, reproduction, and migration to understand differences in fitness between migratory and resident elk. In 2018, the Ya Ha Tinda Elk Project expanded its research to include male elk and for the next year will continue monitoring male elk survival, migration, and habitat selection. For more information about the research project visit our website umt.edu/yahatinda.

 

We are looking for an experienced wildlife technician to lead field operations and data collection at the field site starting August 1, 2020 (preferred). The position will be a 4-month appointment with the potential to extend into 2021. The applicant will be expected to work fully independently at a remote field station in inclement weather conditions while maintaining a positive working relationship with Parks Canada staff. Applicant must have a strong work ethic and be self-motivated to accomplish tasks with little to no direct supervision. Must be able to speak professionally with members of the public including recreationists and hunters. The technician is expected to be familiar with and adhere to Covid-10 precautions as well as other project safety protocols. At this time due to pandemic-related travel restrictions, we can only hire Canadian Citizens.

 

Duties:

The Wildlife Technician will monitor adult elk survival using VHF telemetry and GPS webservices and conduct herd observations to monitor cow:calf ratios and cow-calf resight to monitor the reproductive success of collared females. Additionally, the technician will investigate elk mortalities, conduct vegetation sampling, and conduct backcountry trips to collect data on migratory elk within Banff National Park. The technician will potentially participate in winter elk captures. The technician will be in charge of data entry, sample management, and data analysis, and may be asked to assist with reporting to agencies and publishing research findings.

 

Qualifications:

Due to pandemic-related travel restrictions, applicant must be a Canadian Citizen.

 

Education/Field Experience: Applicants should have an undergraduate or graduate degree directly related to wildlife biology and related field experience.

 

Related Work Skills: Preference will be given to applicants with experience conducting backcountry trips, vegetation surveys, using radio-telemetry to locate animals, investigating mortality sites, and hiking / camping in grizzly bear country. Horseback riding and packing experience is desirable. Must have strong attention to detail and ability to work independently in remote locations without cell service. All applicants must have a current, valid Canadian driverÃf¢ÒÂEURÃ’Â(tm)s license.

 

Physical Requirements:  Applicants must be in good physical shape and able to hike long distances in mountainous terrain, have the mental and physical strength to hike and camp in the backcountry for multiple days, and manage transport of field equipment into remote areas.

 

To Apply:

Your application should include the following, and be saved as a single pdf named Ãf¢ÒÂEURÃ’ÂoeYourLastname _Technician.pdfÃf¢ÒÂEURҝ:

1)      Cover letter indicating how you meet the project expectations

2)      Resume/CV

3)      Contact information for three professional references

 

Please email your job application and/or any questions you may have regarding the position to:

 

Tara Meyer

Wildlife Biology Program

WA Franke College of Forestry & Conservation University of Montana tara.meyer@umontana.edu

 

 

The Cadenasso Landscape and Urban Ecology Lab at UC Davis, Department of Plant Sciences, seeks a GIS Analyst to fill a Research Data Analyst position. The GIS Analyst will work on interdisciplinary projects focused on water use and vegetation in Sacramento, CA. Within this overarching goal, the GIS Analyst will be responsible for locating, curating and analyzing datasets of urban tree inventories; mapping vegetation, parcel, and socio-demographic data; maintaining all appropriate metadata; and contributing to the documentation of methods.  A basic understanding of ecology and environmental science is desired so that the candidate can meaningfully engage with the research. The successful candidate should expect to work with a variety of data and data types, be comfortable with ESRI ArcGIS, and be willing to learn new tools and techniques.

The Analyst will work closely with the Principal Investigator (Cadenasso), a Post-Doctoral Researcher, and undergraduate employees and interns located at UC Davis, as well as with members of the larger collaborative team located throughout California. The successful applicant is expected to generate high quality mapping products for reports, publications, and presentations and, maintain and organize databases. They will also be expected to engage with collaborators, handle data sharing, and be able to articulate the goals of the research project to a wide range of audiences, including academic, public agency, and local community groups.  The Analyst will be considered a full member of the Cadenasso Lab, and as such will be expected to be an active member of a vibrant intellectual community, preparing for and attending lab meetings and providing critical feedback to other projects occurring in the lab.

Qualifications:

Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢    BachelorÃf¢ÒÂEURÃ’Â(tm)s or MasterÃf¢ÒÂEURÃ’Â(tm)s degree in ecology, or related field, with strong GIS skills; Certificate in Geographic Information Systems desired.

Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢    Experience using ESRI ArcGIS software suites, specifically the tools and functions within ArcGIS Online, ArcGIS Pro 2.5+, ArcMap 10.7+, Survey123 (online and desktop) & Collector for ArcGIS utilizing both tabular and geographic data creatively. Experience using & maintaining these software platforms on iPad and desktop connections is highly desired.

Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢    Willingness to think about and use various spatial tools creatively.

Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢    Familiarity with spatial statistics tools within ArcGIS.

Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢    Strong data and file management skills.

Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢    Familiarity with eCognition software a plus.

Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢    Excellent written and oral communication skills; comfortable seeking data and information from other professionals by phone.

Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢    Flexibility to work both as a team member and independently.

Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢    Excited to work with diverse undergraduate interns and graduate students in the lab.

Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢    Willingness to travel to Sacramento for project meetings.

Duration:  This position is full time and the initial offer will be for one year with up to a 6 month extension based on performance.  Start date is negotiable, but on or before 1 August 2020 is highly desirable. The position includes salary and benefits commensurate with experience and demonstrated accomplishments.

To apply:  Please send a cover letter highlighting your relevant experience and expertise, what interests you about the position, and career goals. Include a CV and the names and addresses of 3 professional references that can be contacted. It may be helpful to review the Cadenasso Lab website to get a better idea of the type of research we do: cadenassolab@weebly.com Email all materials as a single pdf file to Mary Cadenasso at MLCadenasso@ucdavis.edu, with Ãf¢ÒÂEURÃ’ÂoeResearch Data AnalystÃf¢ÒÂEURҝ in the subject line. Applications will also need to be uploaded to the UC Davis HR site at: https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fhr.ucdavis.edu%2Fcareers&data=02%7C01%7Cmadeline.hennessey%40uconn.edu%7C2b900661188543da01f508d819b12124%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C637287595840204204&sdata=v42V%2FrdbX91aNV4nuhlVrf3Ifr28F3xYbwUoZmZzMag%3D&reserved=0

Dear Colleagues,

Greetings from Gustolab International Italy!

Could you kindly forward the following to students who might be interested in applying?

Our virtual academic internship program is accepting applications for this summer.

The program is unique and designed to help students gain an international working experience while learning.

Students will work on projects for Italian organizations and focus on the food, sustainability & related fields.  They will be introduced to food & sustainability through through short independent learning modules, and receive Italian language instruction.  They will learn to narrate and think critically about their entire experience by completing graded assignments.

A learning facilitator will support their journey.

Students interested in sustainability may find this program particularly interesting. However, students from all disciplines and universities are welcome to apply!

Applications will be assessed on a rolling basis. The last day to submit an application is July 7, 2020. Applicants will receive admissions decisions as soon as possible.

*Learn more at *https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gustolab.com%2Fvirtual-internship%2F&data=02%7C01%7Cmadeline.hennessey%40uconn.edu%7C2b900661188543da01f508d819b12124%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C637287595840194209&sdata=xm4yxq%2BLhMb4fC4OR7ROhBNxSBElYudorocANfrT80o%3D&reserved=0

We are restarting the hiring process to add a Science Communicator to our team at the Integration and Application Network, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science.

Please apply here: https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fumces.peopleadmin.com%2Fpostings%2F1385&data=02%7C01%7Cmadeline.hennessey%40uconn.edu%7C37a178ebd2b5402423aa08d818e7f1b4%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C637286731771921720&sdata=WP1qpPFiFQe0N%2FIcGGJ0FZ7KlVAt3QzYmUe4F0Oggrw%3D&reserved=0

We will start reviewing applications on July 13th.

Best,

Alexandra Fries

Program Manager

University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science Integration & Application Network

429 4th Street, Annapolis, MD 21403

World Wildlife Fund seeks a Freshwater Research Intern to undertake an assessment of basin health report cards in order to review and compile basin health indicators and associated methods for data analysis.

The intern will assess the 300+ indicators that have been used and are being used in basin health report cards over the last twenty years. They will categorize these indicators into major categories and determine groups of broadly similar indicators under each category. They will then catalogue the methods for analyzing each indicator, including documentation of minimum data requirements and information on thresholds. The results of the assessment will be compiled in a summary report that includes guidance on methods for processing and analyzing common groups of indicators.

For more details and application process, please see:

https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcareers-wwfus.icims.com%2Fjobs%2F2653%2Fin-20051-freshwater-research-intern%2Fjob&data=02%7C01%7Cmadeline.hennessey%40uconn.edu%7Cc146cc521741470a543508d8143247e6%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C637281553482510245&sdata=2rEYjdUebwBxUYk9rxDu%2BCkxT9wNEl4lj3Rn%2Bupdzsg%3D&reserved=0

The USDA Agricultural Research Service Livestock & Range Research Laboratory will be hiring a term position to conduct research from 2020 to 2023.

This position will be full-time position (GS-5) with paid holidays, sick and annual leave.  The position is now open and closes 6/26/2020.

The posted announcement can be found at USA Jobs (https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.usajobs.gov%2F&data=02%7C01%7Cmadeline.hennessey%40uconn.edu%7Cad62ae70ca7e4dee45dc08d80f7af33b%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C637276368051960978&sdata=%2FvHR7q%2BJuuRHRv1CDBKl1VIrwfB9YyCTCdPAPFsDQJU%3D&reserved=0) and enter the keyword: ARS-S20Y-10839365-AED

The position will support research on drought resilience of rangelands in the Northern Great Plains.  We are conducting an experiment in Montana that is replicated in Wyoming.  The experiment tests the effects of several drought and grazing treatments on numerous plant and soil properties.  The position will be supervised by research scientists and will provide opportunities to gain experience with plant and soil field and lab techniques; working with livestock; data collection, entry, and processing; and installation and maintenance of rainfall exclusion shelters. Work will be a mixture of indoor and outdoor settings and may involve sitting for long periods of time or physical activity under potentially extreme working conditions (e.g., high heat, pollen levels).  A familiarity with rangeland plants and plant biology is preferred.

Suggested majors are Soil Sciences, Ecology, Natural Resources, Rangeland Ecology, and Botany.

Questions may be directed to:

Dr. Kurt Reinhart, Research Ecologist, 406-874-8211, kurt.reinhart@usda.gov

*Overview*

This is an outreach notice for a physical science technician position with the National Park Service (NPS) Southeast Coast Inventory & Monitoring Network (SECN).  Interested applicants should email their resume and an example of GIS work to Lisa Cowart Baron (lisa_baron@nps.gov) before 30 June 2020.

*Position Information*

This position is with the NPS SECN and is based in the networkÃf¢ÒÂEURÃ’Â(tm)s Jacksonville, Florida field office at Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve. The SECN is one of thirty-two networks across the country that gather and analyze information on specific National Park natural resources that can indicate the overall health of parks. The information collected helps parks make sound, science-based management decisions that help us preserve America’s special places.  The work performed by this position is part of networkÃf¢ÒÂEURÃ’Â(tm)s long-term Vital Signs monitoring program and will be supervised by the SECN Coastal Ecologist.

The National Park ServiceÃf¢ÒÂEURÃ’Â(tm)s Southeast Coast Inventory and Monitoring Network Coastal Program is seeking an enthusiastic, responsible, and meticulous individual to work with coastal shoreline change and salt marsh monitoring projects.  This position will assist the Coastal Ecologist in planning and executing physical science monitoring efforts at coastal parks located in the Southeast. These parks include Canaveral National Seashore, Fort Matanzas National Monument, Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, Fort Pulaski National Monument, Fort Frederica National Monument, Cape Hatteras National Seashore, and Cape Lookout National Seashore. For more detailed information about these projects and our parks, please visit our website at https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fscience.nature.nps.gov%2Fim%2Funits%2Fsecn%2F&data=02%7C01%7Cmadeline.hennessey%40uconn.edu%7Cad62ae70ca7e4dee45dc08d80f7af33b%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C637276368051960978&sdata=bV%2B46DX7k2IpOIpDpRZvP%2F5I5ajzb%2BUJhwvnds1Gous%3D&reserved=0.

The coastal shoreline change monitoring project involves working on the beach both on foot and with the use of Utility Task Vehicle (UTV) or All Terrain Vehicle (ATV). The salt marsh monitoring project involves accessing salt marsh monitoring stations by boat or on foot and working on narrow structures in the marsh. Both projects require the ability to drive and maneuver large trucks with a trailer or trailered boat on roads, in parking areas, and on boat ramps.   Basic training in general safety, boat safety, use of power tools, use of ATV/UTV, and Motorboat Operation training will be provided (if applicable). Previous boat and UTV/ATV experience is not required, but it is highly desired.  In general, the incumbent will need to be comfortable being on the water, in isolated environments, have a safety conscious attitude, and exercise good judgement.  This position will be the Coastal Program field lead and will be responsible for equipment inventory and maintenance, field preparations, and data management (data collection and entry).  For this position, experience with GPS and GIS is required.  The incumbent will be trained to collect, post-process, and manage geospatial data according to SECN protocols.  Once trained, the incumbent may assist in training others using these methods and techniques.  Occasionally, the incumbent will assist with other physical science and monitoring efforts, which may include supporting stream monitoring and terrestrial monitoring efforts.  In addition to general office duties, such as scanning, copying, and filing documents, etc., the incumbent will be expected to assist in editing and providing feedback on standard operating procedures.

This position entails a high level of responsibility and initiative.  The ability to work efficiently, independently, and be detail oriented is essential.  Previous experience organizing and leading field efforts is preferred.  Good leadership skills, commitment to program mission, and respect for authority are essential.

*Major Duties*

The incumbent will be responsible for implementation of the SECN protocol for monitoring shoreline change and salt marsh elevation change. In addition, the incumbent will assist with other network monitoring activities. This position may require up to 50% travel for fieldwork, training, or other work-related duties.

*Major tasks*

Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢ Organizing, scheduling, coordinating, and conducting the collection of shoreline and salt marsh data and other samples as needed, and evaluation of quality assurance compliance. He/she will synthesize ancillary data from related network coastal monitoring activities, conduct geographic information systems (GIS) analysis, and assist the SECN Coastal Ecologist to complete analysis needed to inform park resource management staff.

Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢ Maintains up-to-date working knowledge of coastal monitoring equipment maintenance/use and competently performs tasks documented in standard operating procedures. Assists in training Park staff and interns on basics of coastal program monitoring field and office methods. Assist Coastal Ecologist in working with Park staff and partners on technical issues related to coastal program monitoring and/or equipment issues when appropriate.

Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢ Utilizes a variety of computer programs to compile, reduce, store, retrieve, analyze, and report data and other related information.  Conducts data entry and implements quality assurance/quality control procedures. Works with the Coastal Ecologist and Data Manager to ensure preservation of paper and electronic files.  Generates metadata for data generating, including tabular data, pictures, and GIS files.

Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢ Provides cartographic, GPS, GIS, and spatial data management assistance when needed in support of the Coastal ProgramÃf¢ÒÂEURÃ’Â(tm)s shoreline and saltmarsh monitoring projects, including processing GPS data, analyzing GIS data, drafting professional quality maps, and generates computerized digital maps.

Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢ Prepares graphs, computations, mathematical calculations, and illustrations for technical studies and presentations.  Compiles and summarizes information. Prepares draft project reports which include literature research, descriptions of methods, preliminary data analysis, graphs and charts, results, and recommendations for planning, protection, and mitigation activities. Performs research and assists in writing scientific reports.  Provides advice, assistance, and training to students, student conservation assistants, and volunteers involved in projects and field research.

Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢ Ensures safe use and maintenance of field sampling equipment and vehicles. Evaluates and mitigates safety risks prior to and while conducting field operations.

Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢ Provides assistance to other SECN data collection efforts and protocol development effort when needed. Works with supervisor and other SECN protocol leads to ensure efficient allocation of time and resources.

*Basic Requirements*

Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢ BachelorÃf¢ÒÂEURÃ’Â(tm)s degree in science related area, such as environmental science, geology, etc.

Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢ Experience with GPS and GIS Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢ Comfortable in isolated environments Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢ Comfortable being on the water in small boats Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢ Ability to be trained to operate UTV and ATV Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢ Ability to be trained in small boat safety and operations Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢ Ability to learn how to trailer small boat and trailer Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢ Comfortable driving long distances (8-10 hours) Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢ Ability to carry 50 pounds

*Desired Skills and Experience*

Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢ Experience with survey GPS equipment and SOPs Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢ Experience with small boat operations Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢ Experience with trailering Ãf¢ÒÂEURÒ¢ Experience operating UTV and ATV equipment

*AREA INFORMATION*

The Southeast Coast Inventory and Monitoring Network (SECN) is based in Athens, Georgia with remote office locations in St. Marys, Georgia and Jacksonville, Florida. The Southeast Coast I&M Network includes fifteen parks with significant natural resources and extends along the Atlantic coast from the North Carolina-Virginia border south to Cape Canaveral, Florida and inland as far as Atlanta, Georgia and the Alabama Coastal Plain. Parks within the Network include: Canaveral National Seashore, Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Cape Lookout National Seashore, Wright Brothers National Memorial, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, Congaree National Park, Fort Pulaski National Monument, Fort Sumter National Monument, , MooreÃf¢ÒÂEURÃ’Â(tm)s Creek National Battlefield, Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, Kennesaw Mountain National Military Park, Horseshoe Bend National Military Park, Ocmulgee National Monument, Cumberland Island National Seashore, Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, Fort Frederica National Monument, and Fort Matanzas National Monument. These parks host important examples of a broad range of ecosystems including upland forests and streams; bottomland and floodplain forests; and coastal barrier islands and estuaries.

This position is duty stationed at Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve in Jacksonville, FL.   The Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve park units are located on or near the banks of the St. JohnÃf¢ÒÂEURÃ’Â(tm)s River, approximately 13 miles from downtown Jacksonville.  The park contains multiple operating sites and is spread throughout Duval County.  All services and amenities are available within the city of Jacksonville.  Temperatures are usually above 90 degrees more than 90 days per year and seldom fall below 30 degrees in the winter.  There are two four-year universities, a state college/community college with 4 campuses and other educational opportunities in Jacksonville or within commuting distance.

Research Internships in Plant Ecology, Archbold Biological Station, Florida

Beginning September 2020; running about 8 months.

Applications due June 30, 2020.

Ideal for Students with Undergraduate Degrees Contemplating Graduate School

Includes independent research project. Provides Stipend, Room and Board.

Internships available at Archbold Biological Station in south-central Florida in the Plant Ecology Program, led by Dr. Eric Menges, which emphasizes conservation biology, plant demography, restoration ecology, fire ecology, landscape ecology, and fire management. We study many rare species of endemic vascular plants in endangered Florida scrub and related communities. Active fire management provides outstanding opportunities for short-term comparative studies in fire ecology. Our long-term (as long as 31-year) datasets on dozens of scrub plants gives context to short-term, focused, field projects. Additional information can be found at the Archbold website:  https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.archbold-station.org%2F&data=02%7C01%7Cmadeline.hennessey%40uconn.edu%7Cad62ae70ca7e4dee45dc08d80f7af33b%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C637276368051970966&sdata=hkDp8hMpqcQ8l0TIqFqsTKsrP6PjgEtP1mj9z7Q%2B3Z4%3D&reserved=0 or the plant ecology program website: https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.archbold-station.org%2Fhtml%2Fresearch%2Fplant%2Fplant.html&data=02%7C01%7Cmadeline.hennessey%40uconn.edu%7Cad62ae70ca7e4dee45dc08d80f7af33b%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C637276368051970966&sdata=3P6FnyEAGduJK5szki4bZhkssA2KHF2uz%2F9HV1U9%2Bbg%3D&reserved=0 or our intern website: https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.archbold-station.org%2Fhtml%2Fresearch%2Fplant%2Fplantinternship.html&data=02%7C01%7Cmadeline.hennessey%40uconn.edu%7Cad62ae70ca7e4dee45dc08d80f7af33b%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C637276368051970966&sdata=iT4bZmEg9UrGzgKZdoPpRaQQrgnTf4eKDUJRWp3vL2c%3D&reserved=0

Interns receive a weekly stipend of $160 plus meals (breakfast and lunch Mon-Fri) and lodging at the Station (sharing housing, no pets).    Each intern works 20 hours per week assisting with a wide range of ongoing research projects. The remainder of the week can be devoted to an independent research project. Internships run for about 8 months (can sometimes be shorter or longer) and offer an opportunity for experience in every aspect of scientific research, from project choice and experimental design to oral and written presentations. Our internships are ideal preparation for graduate research in ecology. Most of our interns have gone on to academic or professional positions and many have first-authored publications based on their intern projects.

Archbold Biological Station is active in research, conservation, and education. Our facilities include a 5000 ha preserve, an outstanding regional library and a GIS lab running ArcINFO. We have a staff of about 50 with many visiting scientists, an active seminar program, and a relaxed biological station atmosphere.

Ideal candidates will have independent research experience, classwork and experience in ecology and botany, field ecology experience, strong grades, statistical and GIS skills, and excellent letters of recommendation.

To apply for an internship in the plant ecology lab, please provide the following: a cover letter stating research interests, a resume or CV, and a summary of grades. Arrange for two letters of recommendation to be sent to us via email. Materials should be sent by November 1, 2019.

EMAIL APPLICATIONS ONLY! Send to Eric Menges at emenges@archbold-station.org

Archbold is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications

from members of underrepresented groups