Listings will be kept for a month after being posted or until their
deadline (if listed). Please send any opportunities not
listed here by clicking on this link:
Email Also, check out this site as well <http://tinyurl.com/2un7jq>,
which has short-term science jobs, internships, and volunteer
opportunities.
Seeking
Summer Research Assistants in New Zealand (Nov-Feb)
We are currently seeking volunteers who would like to visit New Zealand
and help work on invasive species research. The research is funded by
Landcare Research (http://www.landcareresearch.co.nz/)
and based at Lincoln University (http://www.lincoln.ac.nz/).
Lincoln University is located in the pastoral countryside of Canterbury
on the South Island, just minutes outside of NZ's second largest city
of Christchurch. But the majority of the intensive field research
takes place on the wild West Coast.
Most any duration of stay between 1 Nov 2008 and 28 Feb 2009 is
welcome, but volunteers *must pay for their own travel-related costs to
get to Christchurch*. We will provide you with:
• Free accommodation
• Food consumed during fieldwork
• A stipend of NZ$200 per week (~US$150)
• 2 L of local, microbrewed NZ beer
The West Coast is characterized by different habitat types from the
rocky *Southern Alps *(dominated by southern beech forests (Nothofagus spp.), alpine tussock
grasslands, braided rivers, numerous hot springs, and over 3,000
glaciers!!!) to *West Coast rainforests *(characterized by vast swaths
of native bush dominated by native podocarps with a broadleaf &
tree fern under story and an enormous variety of other vascular and
non-vascular flora. The entire region is punctuated with tens of
thousands of waterfalls & pristine streams and is host to many
unique and endangered endemic species of animals including kea (Nestor notobilis), Arachnocampa glowworms, weka (Gallirallus australis), burrowing
little blue penguins (Eudyptula minor),
whio (Hymenolaimus malacorhynchos)
and kiwi (Apteryx spp.).
The basic work regimen will consist of four or five days working and
camping in the field followed by three full days off. If you are
interested or would like more information please email warings@lincoln.ac.nz.
If you wish to volunteer please include a CV and a couple of references.
Scot Waring
Bio-protection & Ecology Division
Lincoln University
PO Box 84
Lincoln 7647
New Zealand
Posted 9/6/08 Greater
Research Opportunities (GRO) Fellowships for Undergraduate
Environmental Study (NCER) Environmental Protection Agency
SYNOPSIS: The sponsor offers fellowships to support quality
environmental education for undergraduate students, thereby encouraging
them to pursue careers in environmentally related fields and to
continue their education beyond the baccalaureate level.
Fellowships cover stipend, tuition, and expenses for a two year
period. A summer internship is also required.
OBJECTIVES: The program is intended to strengthen the
environmental research capacity of institutions of higher education
that receive limited funding to build such capacity, including in
particular institutions with substantial minority enrollment. The
program supports quality environmental education for undergraduate
students, thereby encouraging them to pursue careers in environmentally
related fields and to continue their education beyond the baccalaureate
level. This goal is consistent with the sponsor's mission, which
is to provide leadership in the nation's environmental science,
research, education, assessment, restoration, and preservation
efforts. This program will benefit both the public and private
sectors which will need a steady stream of well-trained and diverse
environmental specialists if our society is to meet the environmental
challenges of the future.
ELIGIBILITY
Applicants must be citizens of the United States or its
territories or possessions, or be lawfully admitted to the United
States for permanent residence. Students at schools that have
substantial minority enrollment are particularly encouraged to
apply. Students must be pursuing a bachelor's degree in an
environmentally related field of specialization. Students must
have two academic years remaining from the start of the Fall semester
(Fall 2009), before receiving a bachelor's degree. Students must
have at least a "B" average overall.
FUNDING
It is anticipated that a total of $930,000 will be awarded this
year. The sponsor anticipates funding approximately 20
fellowships under the current request. The fellowship provides up
to $19,250 per year of academic support and $8,000 for internship
support for a combined total of up to $46,500 over the life of the
fellowship. During the nine-month academic year, a $750 stipend will be
paid to the fellow each month, for a total annual stipend of
$6,750. Stipends are paid directly to the fellow. Each
fellowship institution may choose to supplement a Fellow's stipend from
institutional funds in accordance with the supplementation policy of
the institution. Up to $10,000 per year will be paid directly to
the institution for allowable tuition and fees. For the purposes
of this fellowship, health insurance is not considered to be an
academic fee even if it is required by the institution. Health
insurance costs may, however, be paid from the expense
allowance. Up to $2,500 will be provided to pay for items and
activities for the direct benefit of the student's education, such as
for health insurance, books, supplies, equipment, and travel to
technical and scientific meetings. Specific instructions
regarding the disbursement and management of the expense allowance will
be provided during the award process. During the summer
internship, the fellow will receive a total of $8,000 for the
three-month period. This amount includes $1,000 for travel to and
from the summer internship site, $500 for travel while at the site, and
a stipend of $6,500 for living expenses. The term of
undergraduate fellowship is negotiated with the student and covers a
period of nine months for each fellowship year. Students seeking
a bachelor's degree may be supported for a maximum of two years.
Posted 9/6/08 Smithsonian-Mason
Semester
The Smithsonian-Mason Semester program in Conservation Studies is now
recruiting students for the Spring 09 term. This unique
educational opportunity provides a springboard for students as they
embark on careers in conservation.
This 16-credit undergraduate program, housed in a Smithsonian research
facility adjacent to the Shenandoah National Park, offers students the
opportunity to live and learn among prominent research scientists,
educators, conservation practitioners, and some of the rarest species
on earth.
Grounded in natural science, this interdisciplinary semester combines
public policy, sociology, conflict resolution and global awareness.
Students take five simultaneous courses: meet formally four hours per
day, four days a week, in addition to lab sessions, evening lectures
and field trips to locations throughout the Washington DC area. This is
an academically intense experience that combines field work with active
learning.
Smithsonian-Mason Semester graduates find internship opportunities with
many agencies. Involvement with research projects prepares students for
Masters and Doctoral programs that are available for students who wish
to continue their studies.
Students should be in their junior or senior years, be in good academic
standing, and have some coursework in Biology. This program can
be a valuable addition to degree programs in conservation biology,
environmental studies, ecology, and related fields.
For more information, application, and video, see: http://mccs.gmu.edu or email smithsem@gmu.edu. We also
invite inquiries from interested faculty and advisors.
Dr. Anne Marchant
Associate Director,
Mason Center for Conservation Studies
c/o Smithsonian Conservation and Research Center
1500 Remount Rd.
Front Royal, VA 22630 amarchan@gmu.edu
Posted 9/2/08 Research
assistant position in animal behavior
A research assistant is needed to conduct research on associations
between host behavior and parasite infection in Grant's gazelle in
Kenya. The successful applicant will conduct behavioral observations on
free-ranging Grant's gazelles; collect and analyze fecal samples for
parasites, hormones and nutrition; collate and enter data; and maintain
and manage project equipment. The position requires 6-9 months
residence at Mpala Research Center (http://www.mpala.org/researchctr/index.html)
located in central Kenya. The ideal candidate will have B.A. or B.S. in
biology, ecology, or a related field, and experience conducting
independent research (e.g. undergraduate senior thesis or independent
project). Previous experience collecting animal behavior data in the
field is preferred. Independence, good communication skills, and a good
attitude are key qualities in a successful applicant.
The position is expected to start as early as October 1, 2008 and will
last for one year. The successful applicant will be based at the
University of Montana, Missoula from October thru December, and will
relocate to the field site in Kenya starting in January 2009. Room,
board, a monthly stipend, and one roundtrip airline ticket are
provided. Interested individuals should submit a one-page cover letter
outlining their interest in the position, and a CV including the names
and contact information for three references to Vanessa Ezenwa (vanessa.ezenwa@umontana.edu).
Applications will be accepted until September 15th 2008.
Posted 9/2/08 The
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is seeking applicants for its
2008-2009 AmeriCorps positions (local)
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is partnering with Notre Dame
Mission Volunteers AmeriCorps (NDMVA) to help fulfill our dedication to
creating adventure, conveying knowledge, conserving nature, and serving
the community. We invite you to put your ideals and visions into
action! As an AmeriCorps member at The Cincinnati Zoo &
Botanical Garden, you will have the opportunity to facilitate and
instruct our Public Education Programs, School Events and Programs, or
assist in the Zoo's Visitor Engagement Initiative. See position
descriptions for more information.
The 2008-2009 service year runs from September
2, 2008 to August 1, 2009. It is an 11 month commitment in
which members complete a minimum of 1700 hours of service. NDMVA
benefits include: living allowance ($11,400 pre-tax), health insurance,
child-care, loan forbearance, an education award of $4,725.
To learn more about this position please contact Melinda Voss at
513-475-6157 or email melinda.voss@cincinnatizoo.org.
To apply for this position through NDMVA, please visit their website at
www.ndmva.org or contact the
Cincinnati Recruitment Coordinator, Jamie Noyd, at 513-381-5882 or ndacincy_jamie@fuse.net.
When completing the online application, please select Notre Dame
Mission Volunteers, Cincinnati, as the AmeriCorps program.
Public Programs Intern-
Education Department
Name of Service Site: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
Description of Service Site: The mission and vision of the Cincinnati
Zoo & Botanical Garden is dedicated to creating adventure,
conveying knowledge, conserving nature, and serving the
community. With the addition of our fourth pillar to our Mission
Statement, Serving Community, we recognize the responsibility to
partner with diverse and economically challenged communities in our
daily work. This position promotes the mission of the Cincinnati
Zoo & Botanical Garden through the facilitation of public education
programs for 18 month olds through Adults.
Qualifications:
o A sincere love of wildlife and nature, and desire
to share that interest with others.
o Knowledge of/ education in wildlife ecology,
environmental science, biology, zoology or a related natural science.
o Knowledge of/ education in/ experience in formal
education, or environmental education, conservation education, or a
related non-formal education field.
o Experience handling birds, small mammals, reptiles,
amphibians, and invertebrates, or a willingness to learn.
o Desire and interest in working with young children;
demonstrated patience, rapport with, and understanding of young
children and their parents.
o Proficient in Microsoft Office suite and other
basic computer applications.
Job Description: Public Programs Education Intern
o Responsibilities:
o To teach and facilitate wildlife related programs
to any of the following participant groups: 18 month olds-14 year olds,
Families, Adults, Scouts, and others. Program topics change monthly.
Program outlines and background information will be provided ahead of
time.
o May also include leading up to 2 overnight
education programs per month.
o Assist in Summer Camp planning efforts.
o Design and implement an inquiry based program for
children and/or families.
o Assist Registrars with the registration process of
educational programs and other education experiences including,
comprehensive customer communication (requires extensive knowledge of
programs) and record keeping.
o Provide high quality customer service to zoo
visitors specifically building visitors and program participants.
o Assist Program Coordinators as needed.
o Expectations:
o Hours (time) member is required to work: 40
hours per week including weekdays and/or weekends and nights.
o If an intern has committed verbally to
instruct a particular program, he/she is expected to fulfill that
obligation. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary action up to
and including termination of your internship.
o Dress Code: Uniform shirts will be provided by the
Zoo. Dress Code requires closed toed shoes and non-denim shorts and
pants.
o Other Personnel code requirements: Must complete a
background check and pre-employment drug screening
School Services Intern-
Education Department
Name of Service Site: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
Description of Service Site: The mission and vision of the Cincinnati
Zoo & Botanical Garden is dedicated to creating adventure,
conveying knowledge, conserving nature, and serving the
community. With the addition of our fourth pillar to our Mission
Statement, Serving Community, we recognize the responsibility to
partner with diverse and economically challenged communities in our
daily work. This position promotes the mission of the Cincinnati
Zoo & Botanical Garden through the facilitation of school events,
programs, and initiatives.
Qualifications:
o A sincere love of wildlife and nature, and desire
to share that interest with others.
o Knowledge of/ education in wildlife ecology,
environmental science, biology, zoology or a related natural science.
o Knowledge of/ education in/ experience in formal
education, or environmental education, conservation education, or a
related non-formal education field.
o Experience handling birds, small mammals, reptiles,
amphibians, and invertebrates, or a willingness to learn.
o Desire and interest in working with young children;
demonstrated patience, rapport with, and understanding of young
children and their parents.
o Proficient in Microsoft Office suite and other
basic computer applications.
Job Description: School Services Intern
o Responsibilities:
o To teach and facilitate programs for the following
participant groups: students pre K- 12th grade and teachers.
o Greet and facilitate visiting school groups.
o Actively recruit schools to include a Zoo field
trip and/or overnight into their curriculum. Implement strategies
designed to achieve increased school visitation.
o Present live animal demonstration to the public,
employing the highest care and presentations standards as defined in
the CZBG animal handling guidelines.
o Design and implement an inquiry based program for
schools.
o Assist Registrars with the registration process of
educational programs and other education experiences including,
comprehensive customer communication (requires extensive knowledge of
programs) and record keeping.
o Provide high quality customer service to zoo
visitors specifically building visitors and program participants.
o Assist School Services Coordinator as needed.
o Expectations:
o Hours (time) member is required to work: 40
hours per week including weekdays and/or weekends.
o If an intern has committed verbally to instruct a
particular program, he/she is expected to fulfill that obligation.
Failure to do so will result in disciplinary action up to and including
termination of your internship.
o Dress Code: Uniform shirts will be provided by the
Zoo. Dress Code requires closed toed shoes and non-denim shorts and
pants.
o Other Personnel code requirements: Must complete a
background check and pre-employment drug screening.
Visitor Engagement Initiative
Intern- Education Department
Name of Service Site: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
Description of Service Site: The mission and vision of the Cincinnati
Zoo & Botanical Garden is dedicated to creating adventure,
conveying knowledge, conserving nature, and serving the
community. With the addition of our fourth pillar to our Mission
Statement, Serving Community, we recognize the responsibility to
partner with diverse and economically challenged communities in our
daily work. This position promotes the mission of the Cincinnati
Zoo & Botanical Garden by engaging general Zoo visitors, education
program participants, and special events guests with live animal
appearances and programs.
Qualifications:
o A sincere love of wildlife and nature, and desire
to share that interest with others.
o Knowledge of/ education in wildlife ecology,
environmental science, biology, zoology or a related natural science.
o Knowledge of/ education in/ experience in formal
education, or environmental education, conservation education, or a
related non-formal education field.
o Experience handling birds, small mammals, reptiles,
amphibians, and invertebrates, or a willingness to learn.
o Desire and interest in working with young children;
demonstrated patience, rapport with, and understanding of young
children and their parents.
o Proficient in Microsoft Office suite and other
basic computer applications.
Job Description: Visitor Engagement Intern
o Responsibilities:
o Present live animal demonstration to the public,
employing the highest care and presentations standards as defined in
the CZBG animal handling guidelines.
o Assist with the scheduling of on and off site
animal appearances including, comprehensive customer communication
(requires extensive knowledge of programs) and record keeping.
o Provide high quality customer service to zoo
visitors specifically building visitors and program participants.
o Assist Program Coordinators as needed.
o Expectations:
o Hours (time) member is required to work: 40
hours per week including weekdays and/or weekends.
o If an intern has committed verbally to instruct a
particular program, he/she is expected to fulfill that obligation.
Failure to do so will result in disciplinary action up to and including
termination of your internship.
o Dress Code: Uniform shirts will be provided by the
Zoo. Dress Code requires closed toed shoes and non-denim shorts and
pants.
o Other Personnel code requirements: Must complete a
background check and pre-employment drug screening.
Posted 8/27/08 Full-time
research technician position in community ecology at the University of
Rhode Island
Annual Salary Range for Research Assistant I: $24K-26K plus full
benefits (health, retirement, etc.). Position is limited to 09-26-09
with extension contingent on funding.
BASIC FUNCTION: Perform field and laboratory research pertaining to
various aspects of terrestrial community ecology in the laboratory of
Evan Preisser at the University of Rhode Island (http://cels.uri.edu/preisserlab).
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Required: Bachelor's degree in
life sciences. The following are also required: At least one year of
biological research experience that demonstrates familiarity with
experimental design and the ability to identify logistical/technical
problems that may arise; ability to communicate effectively, both
verbally and in writing; ability to work both independently and in a
team, and to direct the work of others.
Must be well-organized, self-motivated, and interested in all aspects
of the research process. Must possess basic computer skills. Preference
will be given to applicants with experience in ecology and/or
entomology. Position involves occasional overnight trips to field
sites, and it is possible that the technician may occasionally be asked
to provide own transportation to field sites.
This position would be an excellent fit for someone planning on
graduate study in ecology & evolutionary biology, as there will be
opportunities to gain experience in a number of research areas and the
possibility of co-authoring papers.
OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Assist in laboratory management by
instructing and supervising research activities of undergraduate and
graduate research assistants. Maintain laboratory Web site. Assist in
preparation of grant proposals, articles, and grant progress reports as
needed. Perform other duties as assigned.
LICENSES, TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT: Personal computers, printers, word
processing, spreadsheet, and graphing/graphical software; driver's
license valid in the State of Rhode Island.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS: Individual must be able to perform
physically-demanding fieldwork in New England forests in inclement
weather. Position involves hiking, occasional light-medium
lifting (<30 lbs), and comfort with constructing and maintaining
experimental cages, enclosures, etc. in the field.
ALL REQUIREMENTS ARE SUBJECT TO POSSIBLE MODIFICATION TO REASONABLY
ACCOMMODATE INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES.
TO APPLY: Submit (no emails or faxes, please) a resume and cover letter
postmarked by 09-12-08 to: Evan L. Preisser, Search Chair, (Req #
12239), UNIVERSITY OF RHODE ISLAND, P.O. Box G, Kingston, RI 02881. URI
is an AA/EOD employer and values diversity
Posted 8/26/08 Position
available: Seasonal Burn Crew Member (TNC)
The Nature Conservancy is the world's leading conservation
organization, working in all 50 states and more than 33 countries.
Founded in 1951, the mission of The Nature Conservancy is to preserve
the plants, animals and natural communities that represent the
diversity of life on Earth by protecting the lands and waters they need
to survive.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The Burn Crew Member participates in wildland fire operations
which include ignition, control, mop-up, suppression, monitoring,
etc. The Burn Crew Member will participate in preparing fire
lines, maintaining equipment, post-burn monitoring and other
tasks. All TNC staff actively participating on a prescribed burn
must be qualified as a FFT2. If not already qualified, training
will be provided to meet qualifications for FFT2. The Burn Crew
Member will also collect vegetation data related to fuel loads and
grassland vegetation monitoring. Will perform a variety of other
duties (data entry, trail maintenance, woody vegetation removal using
chainsaws and hand tools, etc.) when conditions are not conducive to
prescribed fire.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
• High school diploma and 6 months of related experience
• Qualified as or able to meet qualifications for Fire Fighter Type 2
• Experience operating 4WD, standard transmission vehicles and ATVs.
• Experience operating GPS units.
• Experience with grass identification and vegetation monitoring in
grasslands.
• Ability to achieve a NWCG moderate wildland firefighter rating by
carrying a 45 lb-pack 3 miles in less than 45 minutes.
• Valid driver's license and compliance with The Conservancy's Auto
Safety Program. Employment in this position will be contingent
upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review
of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record.
For more details and to apply, visit www.nature.org/careers.
Application deadline is September 13.
Posted 8/24/08 FIELD
RESEARCH ASSISTANTS IN TROPICAL STREAM ECOLOGY
Two positions are available to assist with a research project examining
interactions between ecological and evolutionary processes in
Trinidadian streams. The project is supported by NSF and involves
a large team of investigators. Responsibilities include
assisting with intensive field surveys, mesocosm experiments and the
processing and management of water and biological samples (algae,
organic matter, stream invertebrates, and fish). Examples of
these duties include collecting and sorting aquatic and terrestrial
invertebrates, water sampling, assisting with chlorophyll and nutrient
analyses, preparing samples for stable isotope analysis, and helping
with fish mark-recapture efforts. Field assistants will be based at a
field station in the Arima Valley in the Northern Range of Trinidad,
and will interact with scientists from North American universities
(Cornell Univ., UC-Riverside, Univ. of Georgia, Univ. of Nebraska, and
other institutions) and from the University of the West Indies.
Applicants should have a Bachelors degree in biological sciences or
related fields. Experience in aquatic ecology is preferred, but not
necessary. The ability to drive a 4-wheel drive, standard transmission
truck is required.
Two positions are available for a period of six months each, starting
in January 2009, with the possibility of renewal based on performance
and the availability of funds. These positions are ideal for
recently-graduated students who want to live abroad while gaining
valuable research skills. A monthly stipend will be provided along with
housing and travel expenses. Please contact Dr. Rana El-Sabaawi
at rwe32@cornell.edu for more
information. To apply please send a coverletter, a resume and a list of
2-3 referees to rwe32@cornell.edu.
Application deadline is Sept 30.
Posted 8/22/08 New
graduate study opportunity
A new opportunity for graduate study is available in the laboratory of
Dr. Jason West in the Department of Ecosystem Science & Management
at Texas A&M University (http://essm.tamu.edu/).
The position is part of a NSF-funded collaboration with Purdue
University to develop and deploy a web-based GIS portal (INPort - the
Isotope Network Portal) that will provide a transparent interface
between data consumers and data sources. This new cyberinfrastructure
tool will allow integrated data querying, data acquisition, and
geospatial modeling operations in the context of spatial mapping and
analysis of stable isotope data. Research opportunities will be
targeted generally at improving and developing mechanistic models of
plant stable isotope ratios and the application of distributed
observations and spatial modeling to address large-scale questions (see
also the recent Isoscapes 2008 conference at http://isoscapes2008.org). There
is significant opportunity in the project for development of new
research avenues in the context of stable isotope ecology and spatial
modeling in GIS and other frameworks. Interested parties should
send a CV, contact information for three references and a cover letter
describing past research experiences and future goals to Dr. West (jbwest@tamu.edu).
Posted 8/22/08 Wildlife
Research Technician, Banff National Park
*STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS*
*Wildlife Field Technician *
*Banff** National Park***
*Banff**, Alberta***
*Screening Criteria: *
Applications will be screened against the following criteria and must
clearly indicate that they meet the established criteria.
* *
*Language: *Proficiency in the use of
English is essential**
* *
*Education: *Training or education in
biological/environmental sciences.
**
*Experience: *Previous field research experience involving
tracking wildlife movements or quantifying animal use of wildlife
crossing structures an asset. Winter field work experience an asset,
including snowshoe and/or backcountry skiing experience.
*Rating Criteria:*
Candidates will be rated against the following criteria. Please note
that the Assessment criteria has been aligned with the Agency's Values
and Principles. *Candidates may also be* rated against education and
experience.
**
* *
*Knowledge of: *
• Proficient in
database mgt (MS Access, Excel) and basic statistical analysis.
• Mammal
identification and tracking skills.
*Ability inline with duties: *
Primary
1. Conduct camera and
track-pad monitoring of wildlife use every *2 days, *each week, at 26
crossing structures on the Trans-Canada Highway (TCH) in the Banff-Bow
Valley.
2. Maintain the track
pads, cameras and wire fences.
Secondary
1. Participate in winter field work opportunities such as
snow tracking, small mammal culvert monitoring and/or herbivory
monitoring.
2. Assist with project outreach and communication
activities.
3. Assist in preparing technical reports from research and
monitoring.
4. Regularly communicate with project director and other
wildlife staff on progress.
*Personal Suitability:*
* * Demonstrated independent work
ethic
Physically able to climb
wire fences and rake track pads
Effective interpersonal
relationships
Sound judgment within the
field
Dependable
Flexibility is key
*Remuneration*:
$13.00-17.00 per hour depending upon experience. 40 hours per
week. Accommodation provided.
*Opportunities:*
Field research experience in national park setting
Work on a leading edge wildlife research project
Opportunities to participate in other Parks Canada projects
Nearby world-class skiing and backcountry recreation
Deadline for applications September
30, 2008
*Please send cover letter indicating your current student status,
citizenship, winter field work experience, resume and contact
information for 3 references should be sent to *
Name: Adam Ford
Title: Research Associate, Banff Wildlife Crossings Project
Email: adam.ford@pc.gc.ca
Posted 8/13/08 Seasonal
Botanists Needed: Winter Field-Season, Mojave Desert Based with the National Park Service
in Boulder City, Nevada Public Lands Institute - University of Nevada
Las Vegas
In collaboration with the National Park Service (Lake Mead National
Recreation Area), the Public Lands Institute at the University of
Nevada Las Vegas seeks two seasonal botanists for the winter
growing-season in the Mojave Desert. The average high temperature
in Boulder City, Nevada, where this position is based, is 56F in
December. The objective of these positions is to collect plant
community data across the landscape in Lake Mead National Recreation
Area and on other federal lands in southern Nevada. These
positions are excellent fits for candidates familiar with southwestern
botany and who are interested in collecting community data directly
relevant to land management.
These positions need to start in approximately November 2008. As
currently envisioned, the positions will be 1,000-hour, hourly
positions, with up to six months of 40 hr/week work. The pay rate
is $18/hr. These positions are grant funded and are limited to
1,000 hours. However, possibilities may exist to apply for longer
term positions as we frequently post positions to Ecolog and other
websites. Only occasional overnight travel (camping) will
possibly be required. Most field sites are within approximately
one hour of Boulder City.
The positions will be field based, but close collaboration with the
university PI, other members of our research group, and National Park
Service staff will be required.
The candidate will become a member of a highly productive vegetation
research group housed at the UNLV Public Lands Institute and School of
Life Sciences. This group is coordinated by Dr. Scott Abella (http://faculty.unlv.edu/abellas2/)
and includes a team of Research Assistants and graduate students.
The group is producing 10-15 peer-reviewed publications per year and
specializes in applied ecology with management implications for
ecological restoration, revegetation, exotic species containment, and
fire. Major funding sources include the National Park Service,
Bureau of Land Management, and the Joint Fire Science Program.
More information about our group is available from http://publiclands.unlv.edu/ddfrg/Home.htm
(use IE).
The position is based at national park offices in Boulder City, Nevada,
with a population of 15,000 and distinctly separated from the Las Vegas
Valley by a mountain range. Nearby Las Vegas is a large urban
area, but is surrounded by millions of hectares of public land.
Public lands accessible in less than a 45-minute drive from Las Vegas
include the 600,000-ha Lake Mead National Recreation Area (National
Park Service), 80,000-ha Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
(Bureau of Land Management), 600,000-ha Desert National Wildlife Refuge
(Fish and Wildlife Service), and the 130,000-ha Spring Mountains
National Recreation Area (Forest Service). Plant communities span
desert creosote scrub to high-elevation bristlecone pine forests.
Outdoor recreation opportunities abound year round, with the fall,
winter, and spring seasons during this position exhibiting mean high
temperatures of 55-76F. Red Rock Canyon is a renowned rock
climbing area, and winter activities are available on the
high-elevation Spring Mountains. Kayaking and water opportunities
are afforded by Lake Mead and the Colorado River. An extensive
hiking and mountain bike trail system also exists in desert mountains
accessible from the city streets of Boulder City itself and immediately
adjacent to the office building where this position will be
housed. These trail systems lead directly into Lake Mead National
Recreation Area and BLM recreational lands. While not claiming
that Las Vegas (separated from Boulder City to the west) is
environmentally friendly, it does contain multiple Trader Joe's and
Wild Oats/Whole Foods. Their nearest locations in Henderson
(eastern Las Vegas) are approximately 20 minutes away from Boulder City
where the position is based.
Qualifications: Completed undergraduate degree in botany, ecology, or a
closely related field is required. Coursework in botany is
desirable. Documented fieldwork experience in plant community
sampling is essential. Experience in the desert Southwest is
preferred. U.S. citizenship and the ability to obtain a Nevada
driver's license are required. The ability to use a GPS, walk
over uneven terrain to access sample plots, and conduct fieldwork in a
desert environment is required. The ability to work with, and
coordinate activities with, the university PI (Abella), other UNLV
staff including other seasonal botanists, and National Park Service
staff is required.
To apply, please send a cover letter and resume by email only to Sharon
Altman (sharon.altman@unlv.edu).
Cover letters can be addressed to: Dr. Scott Abella, Public Lands
Institute and School of Life Sciences, 4505 S. Maryland Parkway, Las
Vegas, NV 89154-2040. In the cover letter, please document
botanical experience through coursework or fieldwork, as well as
describe plant community/botany fieldwork experience. With your
resume, please include the names, email addresses, and phone numbers of
three references, as well as academic transcripts (unofficial copies
are ok). UNLV is an equal opportunity/affirmative
action employer committed to achieving excellence through diversity.
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