Ecology jobs, PhD, Postdoctoral and volunteer positions
Research Technician - Te Papa Natural Environment Team
Fixed Term Position for two years
We are seeking a suitably quaified person for a two year period to assist Te Papa Natural Environment Team achieve outcomes and milestones for the DoC funded research on fisheries impacts on shearwaters, and related projects on the phylogeny and ecology of vertebrates species from the New Zealand region. The work will be primarly focussed on the Terrestrial Vertebrate taxa of New Zealand, and in particular seabirds.
You will have a university degree in a marine zoological subject and/or relevant experience in an organisation with a similar type of research activity. Preferably you will also have a good working knowledge of seabird biology, field techniques, and evolutionary ecology.
You will also need to be:
- methodical with orderly work habits and a record of on time delivery
- able to keep accurate records, using appropriate technology
- able and willing to work both independantly and as part of a team
- physically fit and hold a valid drivers licence
- experienced in safe use of hazardous substances
- able to learn to apply collection registration and preservation techniques
- able to participate and lead field and laboratory work
This position may be suitable as a fellowship for a PhD student. If you are interested in this option please indicate on your application.
For more information please view the job description
Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand.
Apply online OR send your application to recruitment@tepapa.govt.nz , quoting reference number TP1292.
PhD in Invasive Species Ecology, Lincoln University and Landcare Research
Biological Invasions in Braided River Ecosystems in New Zealand Landcare Research and The Bio-Protection Research Centre, Lincoln University, New Zealand, with Environment Canterbury.
An exciting opportunity exists to undertake a PhD aimed at understanding the causes and consequences of alien plant invasions in a highly dynamic ecosystem, the extensive braided rivers that are a major feature of New Zealand’s eastern South Island. Braided rivers are naturally dynamic systems as a consequence of highly variable river flows and associated floods, and support a unique native biota that includes endemic species of plants, lizards, invertebrates and river birds. Human-induced changes to natural flood regimes, as a consequence of river damming and water extraction, appear to trigger a cascade of effects in these ecosystems initiated through invasion by alien plants.
We are seeking a motivated candidate to undertake a PhD that will focus on understanding the drivers of alien plant invasion in braided river ecosystems, and the cascading effects of invasion on the structure and function of these ecosystems. We anticipate the work will combine historical data on water flow regimes with extensive surveys of alien plants to quantify the relationship between environmental change (e.g. frequency, intensity and scale of flood disturbance) and plant invasions, and the consequences of this for other biota. This will provide opportunities to test and apply general ecological ideas (e.g., the intermediate disturbance hypothesis, the role of disturbance in facilitating invasion, invasion meltdown) to a natural ecosystem that is ideally suited to these investigations, with clear applications to management. The candidate will need to undertake fieldwork in sometimes remote locations in the braided rivers of New Zealand’s South Island. In addition to peer-reviewed science publications arising from the PhD, the results of the study are expected to help in managing invasive weeds and pest animals in braided river systems where natural flow regimes have been altered. This PhD is part of a project involving staff from the Bio-Protection Research Centre, Lincoln University, Landcare Research, and Environment Canterbury, and the successful candidate will join an active and dynamic group of invasion ecologists based at Lincoln University. You can find out more about our work here: http://bioprotection.org.nz/project/world-leading-biosecurity/weed-dynamics-and-invasion-processes.
To apply for the scholarship ($26,000/year plus $5,000 fees for 3 years) please send a cover letter outlining your suitability for the position, a CV with the names and details of two academic referees and a document addressing the following selection criteria to Prof. Richard Duncan Richard.Duncan@lincoln.ac.nz, Prof. Philip Hulme Philip.Hulme@lincoln.ac.nz, or Dr Andrea Byrom ByromA@landcareresearch.co.nz. Enquiries about the position should be addressed to Prof. Duncan either by email or by phone on +64 3 321 8969, or to Dr Byrom either by email or by phone on +64 3 321 9629. Applications close on 15 June 2012 and the applicant must be available to start the position by January 2013 at the latest.
Selection Criteria:
Completion of 1st-class or good second-class honours degree or a Master of Science (MSc) - essential.
Interest and experience in invasive species ecology
Interest and experience in quantitative research design, methodology and analysis
Interest and experience in undertaking field-based research
Experience with plant identification, vegetation surveys or phytosociology
Ability to work in remote locations that frequently experience extreme weather.
Willingness to engage with external stakeholders, such as private companies, regional councils, and government departments
Excellent interpersonal and oral communication skills
Willingness to work as part of an interdisciplinary team
A current driver’s license
PhD position, Microbial diversity and the functioning of soil ecosystems
Microbial diversity is a key factor in the ecological functioning of terrestrial ecosystems, especially regarding carbon sequestration, organic matter decomposition and nutrient cycling. In this project, we will follow the chemical degradation and the biological incorporation of organic substrates by the soil microbial community. Together with information of the associated soil fauna these processes will be incorporated in predictive food web models. The project will investigate pathways of organic substrate utilization under different environmental conditions, employing Stable Isotope Probing (SIP) approaches, coupled with DNA sequencing. By connecting these novel techniques with process-based soil food web modeling, we seek to make an important and principle step forward in understanding the soil biodiversity that contributes to ecosystem functioning.
An MSc degree in Biology, with affinity with microbial/molecular techniques and modelling is necessary. A full-time position (38 hours), initially for 1 year after which a go/no go decision will be taken on extension with another three years. Gross salary per month € 2042,= in the first year rising to € 2612,= per month in the fourth year, for a fulltime appointment. Hay-profile: Promovendus
This PhD position is open to any nationality. Interested applicants to submit (ASAP) directly to: g.kowalchuk@nioo.knaw.nl
The pdf contains the funding proposal so is much more detailed. Dutch work Visa's are simple to get through a specific academic/research route. No knowledge of dutch is required.
Biometris (www.biometris.wur.nl) is part of the Plant Sciences Group of Wageningen University and Research Centre. Biometris consists of about 60 mathematicians and statisticians, who are involved in quantitative research and teaching. The group provides a very stimulating environment for PhD-students. Biometris develops and applies quantitative models for the life sciences. Topics include statistical genetics, systems biology, mathematical modelling, food safety and pattern recognition. There is a long-standing and productive cooperation between Biometris staff members and applied scientists in a great variety of life science disciplines, inside and outside Wageningen UR.
Lecturer Behavioural and Evolutionary Ecology, University of Tasmania
Faculty: Science, Engineering and Technology
School: Zoology
Campus Location: Hobart
Position Title: Lecturer, Behavioural and Evolutionary Ecology
Classification: Academic Level B
1. POSITION SUMMARY
This contract position is a teaching-research academic position in the School of Zoology that involves carrying out of high level teaching within Behavioural and Evolutionary Ecology at first, second and third year undergraduate levels. The successful applicant is expected to carry out internationally competitive research that complements existing research strengths in this area within the School specifically examining key processes within the field of behavioural and evolutionary ecology. Integral to this position is the requirement to design detailed field and laboratory based research projects and coordinate the collection and analysis of data. In addition the applicant is expected to use this data to prepare scientific manuscripts of national and international quality. The successful applicant will also be required to contribute to supervision of postgraduate and Honours students.
2. SUPERVISION
2.1 Immediate Supervisor: Head, School of Zoology.
2.2 Direct reports to this position: Nil
3. PRIMARY TASKS
3.1 Contribute to the School’s research activities and output by developing and undertaking research compatible with the School and University research plans and priority areas.
3.2 Contribute to School’s teaching activities, especially in the area of Behavioural and Evolutionary Ecology. Teaching will include, but may not be restricted to, units at 1st year (e.g., KPZ163) and 3rd year (KZA301).
3.3 Contribute to supervision of Honours and Postgraduate students in the School
3.4 Undertake administrative duties as required by the Head of School, including attendance at School, Faculty and/or University meetings.
3.5 Work cooperatively with the academic and general staff on both academic and administrative tasks.
4. LEVEL OF RESPONSIBILITY
4.1 Tasks are performed under the general direction of the Head of School.
4.2 May be required to teach at any level within the undergraduate program as well as at Masters and PhD level.
4.3 Undertake independent teaching and research in his/her discipline or related area. Will make an independent contribution to research and/or scholarship through professional practice and expertise, and co-ordinate and/or lead the activities of other staff, as appropriate to the discipline(s).
5. POSITION RELATIONSHIPS
The appointee must relate effectively with:
Head of School
Staff members within the School
Students
Members of other University Schools/Sections.
6. SELECTION CRITERIA
ESSENTIAL
6.1 Completion of a PhD in Behavioural or Evolutionary Ecology
6.2 An internationally competitive track record of research as evidenced by high profile publications, invitations and presentations at national and international conferences and substantial competitive funding in the form of large research grants or fellowships.
6.3 Tertiary teaching experience in Behavioural or Evolutionary Ecology with demonstrated high quality learning outcomes.
6.4 Evidence of demonstrated capacity to attract and supervise honours and postgraduate students to completion.
6.5 Demonstrated high level written and oral communication skills.
6.6 Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment.
DESIRABLE
6.7 A research profile and teaching profile that matches the immediate requirements of the School of Zoology.
Lecturer, University of Tasmania
Faculty: Science, Engineering and Technology
School: Zoology
Campus Location: Hobart
Position Title: Lecturer
Classification: Academic Level B
1. POSITION SUMMARY
The position will involve teaching and research in the in the School of Zoology. The appointee will be required to teach at all levels of the undergraduate curriculum, especially in ecology, and will contribute to specialist teaching at Third Year level. The appointee will be required to make a significant contribution to research in his/her area of expertise and interest, including the supervision of Honours and postgraduate students. The appointee will also be required to undertake administrative duties and expected to attract external funding.
2. SUPERVISION
2.1 Immediate Supervisor: Head, School of Zoology.
2.2 Direct reports to this position: Nil
3. PRIMARY TASKS
3.1 Develop, prepare, co-ordinate and/or deliver lectures, tutorials, practical classes, and field excursions.
3.2 Consult with students, and undertake assessment associated with the units in which the academic teaches.
3.3 Contribute to the School’s research activities and output by developing, undertaking and communicating research compatible with the School and University research plans and priority areas.
3.4 Attract research funding through applications for national competitive grants and other funding.
3.5 Supervise Honours and postgraduate students.
3.6 Undertake administrative duties as required by the Head of School, including attendance at School, Faculty and/or University meetings and/or membership of a limited number of committees.
3.7 Work cooperatively with the academic and general staff on both academic and administrative tasks.
4. LEVEL OF RESPONSIBILITY
4.1 Tasks are performed under the general direction of the Head of School. A significant level of independent initiative and responsibility is expected in carrying out these duties.
4.2 The appointee may be required to teach at any level within the undergraduate program, as well as supervising at Honours, Masters and PhD level.
4.3 The appointees will make an independent contribution to research in their discipline and/or scholarship through their own research and through research supervision.
5. POSITION RELATIONSHIPS
The appointee must relate effectively with:
Head of School
Staff members within the School
Students
Members of other University Schools/Sections
Stakeholders in research and other professional activity outside the University
6. SELECTION CRITERIA
ESSENTIAL
6.1 A PhD with a specific background and track record in wildlife ecology, evolution and/or conservation and management.
6.2 Demonstrated tertiary teaching experience in ecology with evidence of a capacity to design curricula that inspire students to learn.
6.3 Ability and willingness to teach at all levels of the undergraduate curriculum in Zoology.
6.4 Strong research record relative to opportunity, demonstrated by publications in high quality journals
6.5 Demonstrated capacity to prepare high quality grant proposals to Australian Research Council (ARC) or equivalent granting agencies, and success in gaining research grants.
6.6 Evidence of an ability to effectively supervise honours and/or postgraduate students.
6.7 Established (or ability to establish) national and/or international research links.
6.8 Demonstrated high level written and oral communication skills.
6.9 Demonstrated ability to work in a collegial team environment.
6.10 Current driver’s licence
DESIRABLE
6.11 Established collaborations with external agencies, such as government agencies and private industry.
PhD Scholarship: Genome evolution, speciation and molecular population genetics of stick insects
Supervisor: Associate Professor Thomas Buckley
Co-supervisors: Associate Professor Richard Newcomb, Dr Howard Ross
Next generation DNA sequencing and analysis of whole genomes has opened new possibilities for testing fundamental questions in speciation and adaptation. The successful candidate for this PhD project will generate a draft genome sequence for a New Zealand stick insect (Clitarchus hookeri) and use this as a tool for exploring detailed questions on adaptation within a species and between closely related species. The common stick insect (Clitarchus hookeri) is widespread through much of New Zealand. This species is particularly interesting at it is a geographic parthenogen and has hybridized with closely related species. The successful candidate will perform Illumina sequencing and assemble and annotate a draft genome. This draft genome will be used as a scaffold for RAD-tag studies of SNP variation within C. hookeri and among closely related species. Transcriptome data will also be collected and mapped to the draft genome to obtain candidate genes underlying phenotypic traits for further studies on selection and adaptation. Variation at candidate genes will be measured and compared within and among populations of C. hookeri and among related species.
The successful candidate should have experience in molecular evolution and genomics with an interest in developing skills in the assembly and analysis of Next Generation DNA sequence data. This project is funded by the Allan Wilson Centre for Molecular Ecology and Evolution and
includes a $25,000 NZD per year scholarship, $5,000 for tuition fees, and funding for international travel.
For more information and host institutions and supervisors’ research interests see the following links:
Associate Professor Thomas Buckley:
http://www.landcareresearch.co.nz/research/staff_page.asp?staff_num=1110
http://www.bioscienceresearch.co.nz/staff/thomas_buckley/
Associate Professor Richard Newcomb:
http://www.bioscienceresearch.co.nz/staff/richard-newcomb/
Dr Howard Ross:
http://www.bioscienceresearch.co.nz/staff/howard-ross/
To apply for this position please contact Thomas Buckley at the email address below. Potential candidates should submit a CV, two references, and a short statement of research interests to:
Thomas Buckley buckleyt@landcareresearch.co.nz +64-9-574-4116
Research Assistant - Cognition in the New Caledonian Crow
Volunteer position
Duration: 2-3 months
Location: New Caledonia
Time: June - September, 2012
The Language, Culture and Cognition Centre is looking for a hard-working individual, no experience neccesary. You must pay your own expenses (housing will be covered by the lab).
For more information, or to apply, email Professor Gray at rd.gray@auckland.ac.nz
Two postdoctoral positions: New directions in plant functional trait research
We are seeking two talented and highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellows to join the Department of Biological Sciences at Macquarie University (Sydney, Australia). The positions are in Dr Ian Wright’s plant ecology group (http://wrightlab.wordpress.com) , with one of two positions a joint appointment to Prof. Colin Prentice's Biosphere and Climate Dynamics group. Both positions are up to 2 years duration with an attractive salary package, and will present opportunities to collaborate widely, both nationally and internationally.
The “Research Fellow in Plant Functional Ecology” will investigate the interplay of functional traits and biomass allometry in determining growth outcomes, across seedlings, saplings and adult plants. The project includes a substantial field component and is funded under the ARC Discovery Project “Scaling functional traits to whole-plant growth” (CIs: Wright/Cernusak/Lehmann/Peacock).
The “Research Fellow in in Data Analysis and Modelling” will focus on data compilation and statistical and graphical analysis of global plant trait datasets, as part of the ARC Discovery Project “Next-generation vegetation model based on functional traits” (CIs: Prentice and Wright).The successful candidate will work closely with both Wright and Prentice as part of a large international team undertaking data analysis and hypothesis testing on traits, model construction using these findings, and model evaluation using large-scale observational benchmarks.
Further information can be found at: http://bio.mq.edu.au/~iwright/postdocinfo.htm.
Enquiries: Please contact Dr Ian Wright via email at ian.wright@mq.edu.au
Closing date for applications is June 10th 2012.
Departmental Science Adviser
Branch: Policy
Reports to: Director Strategy, Systems and Science
Location: Wellington
Approved by: Deputy Director General Policy
Date: May 2012
Purpose of the position:
The MPI Departmental Science Adviser (DSA) position is intended to influence and provide science leadership (and oversight). The position will help to ensure the integrity of MPI’s science and science advice and that MPI has appropriate research standards and quality assurance systems in place for science. The DSA will also ensure that MPI is well integrated into the national and international science community.
Principal responsibilities/key result areas:
Ensure a robust science evidence base is used for policies and operations by:
• providing peer review and quality assurance of science programs or science aspects of broader processes/programs as required.
• engaging in the development of MPI science strategies or external science strategies as appropriate.
• reviewing the effectiveness of internal science quality assurance systems and advising on system improvements to ensure best practice.
• providing advice on MPI’s scientific risk assessment and forecasting systems and processes
Act as a science champion within MPI, and with MPI’s sectoral interests, and contributing a MPI perspective to the leadership of the wider science system. This role would also provide a visible point of contact for the science community, and a key contact point for the Prime Minster’s Chief Science Adviser and other departmental science advisors (or equivalent); Support effective resolution of controversial science issues by providing occasional independent views of MPI’s scientific assessments to senior management, and assisting or leading in the management of such issues at an internal, interdepartmental, national and/or international issues as required.
For more information see: MPI.pdf
3 volunteers needed Evolution and Socio-Ecology of small Mammals in the Succulent Karoo of South Africa
July / August to November / December 2012 - Three volunteers needed as field assistants for the project.
Opportunity: This is a great opportunity for anybody who wants to get more experience in field work relating to evolution, ecology and behavior before starting an MsC or PhD project.
Project: We study the evolutionary and ecological reasons as well as physiological mechanisms of group living, paternal care, communal nesting and social flexibility in the striped mouse. One focus this year is on personality traits of striped mice. As this species is diurnal and the habitat is open, direct behavioral observations in the field are possible.
What kind of people are needed? Biology/zoology/veterinary students are preferred as candidates. Applicants must have an interest in working in the field and with animals. Hard working conditions will await applicants, as the study species gets up with sunrise (between 5 and 6 o` clock), and stops its activity with dusk (19 o` clock). Work during nights might also be necessary. Work in the field will be done for 5 days a week. Applicants must be able to manage extreme temperatures (below 0 at night in winter, sometimes over 40°C during summer days). Applicants must both be prepared to live for long periods in the loneliness of the field and to be part of a small social group.
Work of field assistants: Trapping, marking and radio-tracking of striped mice; direct behavioral observations in the field. Volunteers will participate in a project on personality traits of striped mice, doing behavioral tests at the research station and in the field. Volunteers are also expected to help with maintenance of the research station (water pump, solar power, etc.).
Confirmation letter: Students get a letter of confirmation about their work and can prepare a report of their own small project to get credit points from their university for their bachelor or masters studies.
Costs: Students have to arrange their transport to the field site themselves. Per month, an amount of Rand 1250 (around 180 US$, 120 Euro) must be paid for accommodation at the research station. Students must buy their own food etc in Springbok (costs of about R 2500, approx. 360 US$ or 250 Euro/month). Including extras (going out for dinner; shopping), you should expect costs of about 600 US$, 450 Euros per month. Students get an invitation letter which they can use to apply for funding in their home country (eg. DAAD in Germany, SSJARP in Switzerland).
Place: The field site is in the Goegap Nature Reserve near Springbok in the North-West of South Africa. The vegetation consists of Succulent Karoo, which has been recognized as one of 25 hotspots of biodiversity. It is a desert to semi-desert with rain mainly in winter (June to September).
When and how long: At the moment we are looking for 2-3 volunteers starting in July / August 2012. Volunteers are expected to stay at least three months, but longer periods of up to 6months are preferred.
How to apply? Send a short motivation letter stating why and for which period you are interested and your CV via email to carsten.schradin@ieu.uzh.ch
More information under http://stripedmouse.com/site1_3_5.htm
http://www.ieu.uzh.ch/research/behaviour/endocrinology.html
Contact via e-mail: carsten.schradin@ieu.uzh.ch
WWF-US Post-doctoral Marine Scientist, Monitoring and Impact Evaluation
Job # 12117
World Wildlife Fund (WWF), the world’s leading conservation organization, in partnership with WWF-Indonesia, seeks a post-doctoral marine scientist to work with an interdisciplinary team to monitor and evaluate the ecological impacts of marine conservation interventions, initially focusing on marine protected areas (MPAs). Our goal is to demonstrate an interdisciplinary approach to MPA monitoring and impact evaluation that builds upon established MPA monitoring protocols and ecological questions around population connectivity, ecosystem services, and fisheries and other human uses of marine environments. The initial geographic focus will be Southeast Asia (particularly Indonesia), but may be expanded to include related projects in other locations (such as East Africa, particularly Mozambique). This position is based in the WWF Conservation Science Program in Washington, DC.
Major Duties & Responsibilities: In collaboration with the science team, the post-doc will:
1. Develop and implement rigorous-yet-practical methods for documenting and explaining variation in the social and biological impacts of conservation interventions, initially focusing on MPAs. This will entail support to existing work in the Bird’s Head Seascape in West Papua, Indonesia, an emerging study in the Sunda Banda Seascape of Eastern Indonesia and planned work in Mozambique.
2. Analyze data and synthesize results from the above, including using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) as warranted, in order to document conservation impacts and to explore relationships among MPA governance (i.e., conservation interventions), social and ecological context, and conservation impacts (ecological and social).
3. Assist with design and implementation of a Rapid Assessment and of an effective regional monitoring and evaluation (M&E) system to measure biophysical and socio-economic changes in the Sunda Banda Seascape to inform relevant policy decisions in support of adaptive management.
4. Based on the above, develop research design and protocols for a large N program to monitor and evaluate the impacts of MPAs.
5. Write up of results from the above and other related work for both peer-reviewed publication and internal audiences.
6. Support developing partnerships among local Indonesian institutions, building the capacity of Indonesian conservation staff and graduate students and researchers to design, implement, and disseminate findings from long-term monitoring programs and other policy-relevant science.
Minimum Requirements
1. Ph.D. (or equivalent) in ecological, interdisciplinary, or marine science plus at least 2 years experience in conservation or related field.
2. Excellent quantitative and statistical skills.
3. Ability to work both independently and in a team.
4. Must be willing to travel 25% time, including to Indonesia and other locations with challenging field conditions.
AA/EOE Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. To apply for the job please visit http://www.worldwildlife.org/careers, Job # 12117, and submit cover letter and resume by May 31, 2012. Due to the high volume of applications we are not able to respond to inquiries via phone.