Bioblogía

Field assistants for conservation of an endangered butterfly

2012-02-16T13:29:00.001+01:00

April - June 2012
Two full time-limited term field assistant positions (Approximately April 1
st - June 30th) are available at Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge.
Dallas, Oregon. Assistants will contribute to an ongoing, collaborative
project investigating habitat management for rare butterflies. This project
will specifically focus on the effects of burning, as a management tool, on
the Fender’s blue butterfly (*Icaricia icarioides fenderi*)
http://www.xerces.org/fenders-blue/. The position provides an excellent
opportunity to develop skills related to fire ecology and butterfly
biology. These positions are affiliated with Cheryl Schultz’s lab at WSU
Vancouver. Positions pay $10/hr

*Major responsibilities:* Locating, delineating and using GPS equipment to
record the location of host plant patches. Surveying patches of lupine for
the caterpillars and eggs of Fender’s blue butterfly. Studying behavior
(movement, nectaring, oviposition) of adult Fender’s blue butterflies.
Conducting surveys to assess the effects of fire on vegetation structure
and nectar resource abundance

*Skills and Qualifications:* Strong interest in conservation biology,
butterfly biology, entomology and/or field ecology. Attention to detail and
an ability to work independently and as part of a team in a research
environment. Ability to work in hilly terrain under hot, sunny or cool,
rainy conditions for long hours

*Schedule:* Daily and weekly work schedules may fluctuate, sometimes with
little notice. An ability to deal with a flexible work schedule (especially
during adult butterfly flight period) is a must. Butterflies are weather
dependant and Oregon is known for unpredictable weather. Field work will
happen when the weather permits. This may include some weekends.

*Housing/Transportation:* Individuals are responsible for their own housing
and transportation to Baskett Slough NWR.

*Application requirements: *Review of applications will begin on February
21 and continue until positions are filled. Please submit a cover letter
briefly detailing relevant interest and experience, CV and a list of 3
references. Applications (and any questions) should be emailed to Norah
Warchola at (norahwarchola@fas.harvard.edu)

PhD position in infection and immunology

2012-02-16T13:27:00.000+01:00

A 3 year fixed PhD contract position is currently available as part of an interdisciplinary project within an international environment at the Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology in Giessen, Germany. The successful applicant will join the Reproductive Biology Research Group under the direction of Prof. Dr. Andreas Meinhardt. To be eligible for this position, you must be able to commence no later than June, 2012.

Project Overview

The underlying causes of male infertility following infection with uropathogenic E.coli (UPEC) are not clearly understood. Infection and inflammation of the epididymis may attribute to impaired male reproductive function as a consequence of spermatozoa or germ cells being directly exposed to pathogens and associated inflammatory products.

Project Aims

Specifically, we aim to elucidate consequences of UPEC infection in the epididymis, and how UPEC modulate host immune responses via multiple molecular biology techniques such as RT PCR, Western blot, ELISA as well as in vivo mouse models. Furthermore, we wish to examine the impact of UPEC infection on targeted immune cells within the epididymis which may regulate host inflammatory responses and impact on sperm maturation. This will be assessed by employing techniques such as FACs, immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy. Sperm integrity and function will also be analyzed using techniques including Raman spectroscopy (collaboration with Muenster).

Methoden:
The applicant will have experience in molecular biological techniques such as RT-PCR and cloning, have knowledge of morphological analyses (immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence). Confocal microscopy and FACS are advantageous for this position. Previous experience is required in cell culture techniques. As in vivo models are used in this project you must be willing to work with animals.

Anfangsdatum: 1. Juni 2012

geschätzte Dauer: 3 years

Bezahlung: approximately 1,100 euros / month

Veröffentlichungen:
Bhushan S. et al.,2011, PLoS One. 2011;6(12): Epub 2011 Dec 2.

Homepage: http://www.uni-giessen.de/cms/fbz/fb11/institute/anatomie/intro/arbeitsgruppen/ag-reproduktion

The successful applicant will have completed a Masters Degree in the areas of Cell Biology, Biochemistry or Immunology and have above average grades (>70%).

English language, both spoken and written, is critical.

The University values diversity and is committed to equal opportunity. Completed applications should include a CV including the names of three academic referees, two letters of recommendation and academic transcripts (translated into English) compiled into a PDF format.

Applications close 12 noon, Friday 30th March, 2012.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Ecological and Evolutionary Genomics Research Technician

2012-02-16T13:26:00.000+01:00

University of Alabama in Huntsville
Department of Biological Sciences

An immediate vacancy for a Research Technician is available in the lab of
Dr. Luciano Matzkin at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. The lab
focuses on the ecological and evolutionary genetics of adaptation in
cactophilic insects (mainly Drosophila). Please see the lab webpage for
more information, http://www.uah.edu/biology/LAB/matzkin/.

Job Description:
The principal purpose of the position will be to manage and maintain the
laboratory and its ongoing research projects.

Requirements:
Bachelor¢s degree in Biology or a related field. General molecular lab
experience, knowledge of PCR, gel electrophoresis and good record keeping
and organizational skills. Must possess general computer skills and have
the ability to learn more complicated software. Knowledge of Genomics,
Drosophila and computer programming a plus.

The position if for one year, but may be extended pending the availability
of future funding and performance of candidate.

Application Instructions:
Applicants interested to apply MUST submit the following documents online
(http://uah.interviewexchange.com/candapply.jsp?JOBID=30434)

:

1. UAH Application For Employment
2. Resume/CV

After submitting your Application, the subsequent pages enable you to upload
additional documents (i.e. Resume/CV, cover letter etc.). Please include
the names of up to three references.

Please direct any inquiries to Dr. Luciano Matzkin (lmm0015@uah.edu).

Dr. Luciano M. Matzkin
Assistant Professor
Department of Biological Sciences
The University of Alabama Huntsville
301 Sparkman Drive
Huntsville, AL 35899
Office (256) 824-4326
Lab (256) 824-6968

Postdoctoral position in experimental evolution and systems biology

2012-02-16T13:24:00.001+01:00

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral position in evolutionary
systems biology at the Laval University Institute for Integrative and
Systems Biology (IBIS)(Quebec, Canada) to study the organization of
signalling networks by means of experimental evolution. The successful
candidate will study the genetic architecture and evolution of signalling
networks using the budding yeast and its close relatives as models. The
candidate will have access to state-of-the-art facilities in automated
screening, high-throughput sequencing and computational biology.

Applicants must hold a PhD in biology or in a related discipline. The
candidate should have strong experience in molecular biology and/or
bioinformatics. Prior experience with high throughput screening and
genotyping, statistics and yeast genetics would be an asset.

Université Laval is one of the first higher education institutions in
the Americas and is one of the leading universities in Canada. Located
in Quebec City -- a UNESCO world heritage city-- Université Laval
offers an excellent research and training environment for scholars and
an outstanding quality of life.

Time of initial appointment: Between July and September 2012 (flexible).

Review of applications begins immediately and will continue until the
position is filled.

Initial term of one year renewable for two years.

Interested candidates should contact Christian Landry
(clandry@post.harvard.edu) and include a cover letter describing research
interests, a CV and the names of two referees.

Visit our website for more details on our research

http://www.bio.ulaval.ca/landrylab/

Christian Landry, PhD
Assistant Professor
CIHR New Investigator
Department of Biology
Institute for Integrative and Systems Biology
Room 3106, Pavillon Charles-Eugene-Marchand
1030, Avenue de la Medecine
Laval University
Quebec (Quebec) G1V 0A6
Canada

http://www.bio.ulaval.ca/landrylab

Phone: 418-656-3954
Fax: 418 656-7176

Postdoctoral position in Evolutionary Systems Biology

2012-02-14T12:49:00.000+01:00

Vetsigian lab at the University of Wisconsin-Madison is seeking
Postdoctoral Associates in the area of Microbial Evolution. The Lab is
part of the Systems Biology Theme at the Wisconsin Institute for Discovery
and the Department of Bacteriology. It focuses on experimental and
theoretical approaches to studying microbial evolution in a community
setting. We are developing methods for quantifying microbial interactions
in a high-throughput fashion, and use them to characterize interactions in
co-evolved natural communities and track their evolution in laboratory
microbial communities.

We are looking for two types of candidates:

1) Ph.D in microbiology or a related filed. Previous experience with any
of the following is a plus but not required: microbial ecology,
actinomycetes, secondary-metabolism, next gen sequencing, microfluidics,
imaging.

2) Strong quantitative background and a record of accomplishments in the
areas of complex systems, bioinformatics and/or evolutionary biology.
Previous work on biological questions or laboratory experience are a plus
but not required. In fact, the lab offers an ideal opportunity for
ambitious candidates with a theoretical background to learn experimental
techniques.

The postdoctoral positions will prepare candidates for a career in the
rapidly expanding fields of Systems Biology, Microbial Ecology and
Genomics. The specific research projects will be based on the candidate零
experience and interests. The positions are for two years with the
potential for extension upon satisfactory performance. Start day is
negotiable.

To apply, please send one document that includes a cover letter, CV and
statement of research accomplishments to kalin@discovery.wisc.edu. Also,
arrange for 3 letters of recommendation to be e-mailed directly to the
above address.

Kalin Vetsigian
Assistant Professor of Bacteriology
http://www.bact.wisc.edu/faculty.php?init=3DKAV&show=3DPEP
Wisconsin Institute for Discovery
Systems Biology Theme, Room 3116
330 N. Orchard Street

Hints on how to choose a PhD program

2012-02-14T10:20:00.000+01:00

Very helpful post from Joan Strassman in Sociobiology.
It is aimed in general for US students, but contains lots of interesting and useful clues that apply for all of us.

Choosing a PhD program - What's important and what's not.

Postdoc in primate behaviour

2012-02-11T12:27:00.002+01:00

Hiring Organization:
Ewha Womans University

Position Description:
PRINCE (Primate Research Institute for Cognition and Ecology) at Ewha
Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea, is looking for a
postdoctoral primatologist to be appointed as research professor. One
position is available, two profiles will be considered for
applications:

1) Researcher specializing in primate cognition, preferably using
behavioral tasks in controlled experiments, with additional field
research experience with wild nonhuman primates. He/she would be given
opportunities to conduct his/her own cognitive behavioral research on
captive apes at the zoos in Korea as well as to supervise existing
student projects and manage all zoo-related issues. He/she should
advise students of the Primate Team with data analysis and paper
writing in addition to writing his/her own papers as much as possible.

Or

2) Researcher specializing in primate field research, preferably
behavioral ecology of areas such as mating system, feeding behavior,
or communication, with additional interest in cognitive studies.
He/she would take responsibility in analyzing and writing scientific
papers with students related to an on-going project on gibbons in
Indonesia. Duties related to the management of the field site are not
included in this position. He/she should advise and guide students of
the Primate Team including those conducting cognitive studies with
captive apes at the zoo. Some supervision duties related to the
project is required.

Producing as many papers as possible is critically important for the
evaluation of the project. Other daily duties are subject to
discussion and no formal teaching is required.

Anyone interested in this position is encouraged to send a letter of
intent, CV, and a few representative publications to Mr. Sanha Kim
(sanhakim@hotmail.com) and/or Ms. Sunyoung Ahn (syahn@ewha.ac.kr).

PRINCE is directed by Jae Choe, a Harvard-trained behavioral ecologist
and chair professor of EcoScience at Ewha Womans University. He also
runs the Laboratory of Behavior and Ecology in cooperation with
Yikweon Jang who is specialized in animal communication. In addition
to primate researches, they study the ecology and behavior of magpies,
social behavior and genetic systems of ants, and acoustic
communication of crickets and frogs.

Qualifications/Experience:
Applicants should have a doctoral degree in psychology, cognitive
sciences, behavioral ecology, evolutionary biology, or other relevant
field.

Salary/funding:
The yearly salary is set at 40 million Korean won (approximately
$35,000 according to the current exchange rate).

Term of Appointment:
The initial term is set for the six months starting 1 April 2012 but
is renewable for another year or two.

Application Deadline:
Applications will be considered as they are received.

Contact Information:
Mr. Sanha Kim
Seodaemun-gu Daehyun-dong 11-1
Seoul 120-750
Korea

E-mail Address:
sanhakim@hotmail.com

Postdoc opportunity in cell biology

2012-02-10T10:36:00.002+01:00

Protein folding in the cell regulated by Hsp70 molecular chaperones

An opportunity for a postdoc project in cell biology is currently available at the Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University.

Research is primarily focused on understanding the mechanisms underlying chaperone-mediated protein folding in the eukaryotic cell using yeast as a model system. Hsp70 molecular chaperones facilitate folding and conformational changes of cellular proteins, hence they are required to maintain protein homeostasis and therefore life. Impairment of the Hsp70 chaperone system is associated with disease.

Projects aim at unraveling how the general Hsp70 chaperones of the cytosol are targeted to specific cellular protein substrates. Already initiated projects close to publication are available. Availible are also more orphan projects that can be adapted to the interests and ideas of the successful applicant.

Methodology involves techniques from genetics, cell biology, molecular biology and biochemistry, e.g. yeast genetic analysis, microscopy, protein purification and biochemical reconstitution.

Applicants should have a strong interest in experimental cell biology. Creativity, strong motivation and an analytical mindset are critical qualities. Well-developed communication skills are required. Candidates have previous graduate training in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry or genetics. Specifically, a background working with yeast, molecular chaperones or biochemistry is meriting.

The postdoc is financed by stipend, one year.

For further questions regarding the possibility and the projects, please contact:

Claes Andréasson, Ph.D.
claes.andreasson@wgi.su.se
Tel +46 - (0)8 - 16 42 02

Earthquest (Canada) for the Environment - Saving Panama's Wildlife on Islands in the Canal by Steve Rinder

2012-02-10T10:34:00.002+01:00

PANAMA -- I suspect that environmental ecology and ecotourism were not foremost on the minds of the Panama Canal builders. Nor did they probably realize the full impact of turning mountain tops into islands. History proves, however, that despite the efforts of the indigenous inhabitants (malaria-carrying mosquitoes included), the canal got built and progress was complete. Approaching a century later, on one of those islands in the middle of the Lake Gatun section of the Canal, exists (since 1981) a facility and a dream dedicated to the survival of one of the endangered species of monkey, the Panamanian tamarin.

This "halfway house" for poached, caged and habituated primates (rescued and returned from their collared concrete existence in the cities, and then reintroduced to their natural habitat), is the ongoing work of founder Dr. Dennis Rasmussen (Florida State University), and organizations such as Earthquest (Canada) for the Environment, with whom I am consulting. Volunteers are accepted to live on the Isla Tigre (Tiger Island) Primate Sanctuary for 2-4 week expeditions, and participate in scientific and environmental observation furthering the work of the research project.

The two week expedition I observed last February brought together 12 volunteer team members from across North America. Arrival was cross-country from Panama City by van and then by small launch to the cluster of small islands secluding the primate sanctuary. We were met by Rumuldo and Francisco, local native campesinos (farmers) who are the rangers for the island. Their jobs include feeding both human and tamarin populations, island security (poachers occasionally are met), maintenance and jack-of-all-trades.

We were guided up the "Buena Vista" path to the main "bohio" lodge (a palm-thatch roofed, two story structure) for orientation. We set up our tents on the second floor of the dormitory bohio, understanding and later discovering that the ground floor after dark becomes an action packed activity area for all things crawling, including leaf cutter ants, snakes, wolf spiders, iguanas, night monkeys, scorpions, and tarantulas. The trench latrine was up the hill and, outfitted with paper and shovel, became one of the most opportune places on the island to observe the many colorful and vocal species of birds indigenous to the area. Amazon parrots, toucans, hawks and vultures made any visit up the hill an adventure.

With no electricity or running water on Isla Tigre, life is spartan and rustic. Our days consisted of lectures, discussions, jungle observations and some off island touring. Meals, campesino cuisine, were delicious and "typico." Fresh fish, thanks to Francisco, hit our plates almost daily, along with coconut rice, fried plantain, beans and veggies. Papaya and chile peppers grown on the island added both sweetness and warmth to the meals. We were encouraged to help in the kitchen, and we did - practicing our Spanish (neither men spoke English) and learning the magic of the traditional flavors. Night fell around 6 o'clock and we enjoyed our candlelit dinners discussing the days' observations and sharing our experiences with each other. Rumuldo and Francisco joined us and we spoke of families, homelands and food..

Into the jungle to observe and document was our mandate. Daily treks along rough, though defined trails, took us in search of tamarin feeding ecology, behavior and antics. They travel in groups, headed by the dominant female. Their main predator (besides man) is the hawk which will fly off with one in a blink of an eye. Finding them at any given time is a challenge and many hours each day were spent in search of the elusive bands of these canopy acrobats. Sightings were exhilarating and most rewarding. All of the data collected was fed into the computer update and analysis of the island population. It was fun to observe the group dynamic of both the monkey primates and the human ones.

Conclusion

Each day of our visit allowed for personal interaction with the Panama Canal. We bathed in it, washed our clothes in it (biodegradable soap) and relaxed in its' welcoming clearness. Watching for Cayman was only necessary early in the morning or at dusk. Midnight stargazing sitting on the dock did bring sounds of thrashing in the surrounding flora, but we only could imagine the noisemaker. There is a 6 foot iguana on the island, but we didn't see it that time. Shooting stars and unobstructed views of the endless heavens made this traveler consider life's best possibilities. In sunlight we could see in the distance the huge tankers and cruise ships pass, oblivious to our situation and project. The migratory pattern of the birds established a daily time schedule for observation. For one who believes the ancient native saying that "a feather in your path is a gift", every day was a celebration.

Visiting the native Choice tribe (a long and rough boat trip up the Charges River), brought history, cultural diversity, and scientific exploration. We were invited into the home of one of the elders of the tribe to meet his family, observe carving and basket/necklace making, experience body tattooing, and hike into the jungle to learn of natural herbal and medicinal plants growing there. The shaman showed us countless remedies for everything from headaches to stomach malaise, all available at arms' reach. We were pleased to return to the island mindful that as we planted new fruit trees for the monkeys, we were planting them in the island pharmacy. Nature provides.

And so the cycle and recycle of life continues on the small island. We were there for scientific research and observation, but I believe that we were "gifted the ultimate feather" to any ecotourist - cultural, educational and adventure moments, no matter where in the world we travel or why. I found all of these in Panama. In the year 2000, mandated by momentous treaty, the Panama Canal zone will be given back to it's original inhabitants, the people of Panama. With the continued equally momentous commitment of people like Dennis Rasmussen and organizations such as Earthquest (Canada) for the Environment, Panama will be given back to its' original inhabitants.

Steve Rinder is an ecotourism consultant, formerly based in London, Canada

Ofertas de empleo de EcoDiff

2012-02-09T12:54:00.001+01:00

Esta lista se envía semanalmente desde la Sociedad Francesa de Ecología. Para recibirla directamente en tu correo, puedes darte de alta en esta web http://www.sfecologie.org/ecodiff/

Bonjour à toutes et à tous,
Voici les annonces Ecodiff du lundi 06 février au jeudi 09 février.
Pour poster une offre, consulter les offres, s’abonner et se désabonner allez sur la page http://www.sfecologie.org/ecodiff/
Bonne fin de semaine !
EcoDiff pour la SFE,

Job

Research Assistant Needed - McGill University Study on Pollination Services in Quebec Permanent Professor position in Integrative Ecology, University of Rennes 1, France
Conservateur pour la Réserve Naturelle des 7 îles
chargé d'études faune Rochefort
Poste professeur "Ecologie des communautés végétales et biologie de la conservation"

PostDoc

Post Doctoral Associate vacancy (Geospatial analyst), Delaware State University Life Cycle Analyst -- Postdoctoral Interdisciplinary Research Associate, USDA

PhD

grad student opportunities, plant ecological genomics, TTU PhD Project Opportunities with the Wildlife Genetics Laboratory, Institute for Applied Ecology, University of Canberra
Offre de thèse en évolution des systèmes de reproduction à Lausanne dans le labo de John Pannell
PhD Student Position in Remote Sensing and Coupled Natural and Human Systems
Research Assistantship for Ph.D. in the School of Renewable Natural Resources Louisiana State University
PhD Assistantship, Landscape Ecology of Pollinator Conservation and Services by Native Bees

Master

grad student opportunities, plant ecological genomics, TTU Research Assistant Needed - McGill University Study on Pollination Services in Quebec

Conference

Le Réveil du Dodo : les inscriptions sont ouvertes! IVe journées francophones des sciences de la conservation : du 2 au 4 mai 2012 à Dijon (2e appel)

--

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Société Française d'Ecologie
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Faculty position in California, Riverside

2012-02-09T12:50:00.002+01:00

The Department of Botany and Plant Sciences invites applications for a faculty position in plant evolutionary developmental biology ("evo-devo"). This is a 9-month, tenure-track position at the Assistant or Associate level. The successful candidate is expected to work at the interface between modern developmental, phylogenetic, and evolutionary plant biology. He/she will join an active and collegial department with broad interests in plant biology. The individual will be expected to establish and maintain an independent, vigorous, innovative research program, teach at the undergraduate and graduate level in the areas of evolutionary developmental biology, plant systematics, or developmental anatomy/morphology to complement the Department's existing strength in cell and developmental biology, and participate in departmental and interdepartmental undergraduate and graduate programs.

The position includes an appointment in the Agricultural Experiment Station and will be available July 1, 2012. Applicants must hold a Ph.D. and postdoctoral experience is essential for candidates at the assistant level.

Evaluation of applications will begin April 9, 2012 and continue until the position is filled. Interested individuals should submit 1) a curriculum vitae, 2) a statement of research and teaching interests, and 3) have three letters of recommendation sent to:

Chair, Plant Evo-Devo Search Committee
c/o Department of Botany and Plant Sciences
2118 Batchelor Hall
University of California, Riverside, CA 92521-0124
Email: bpsrecruit@ucr.edu
FAX: (951) 827-4437

For additional information on the Department and the campus visit http://cnas.ucr.edu/ and http://www.plantbiology.ucr.edu/. The University of California, Riverside has an active career partner program, and is an Affirmative Action equal opportunity employer committed to excellence through diversity.

PostDoc - Impact of climate change on pest-natural enemy dynamics (Hannover)

2012-02-08T12:59:00.002+01:00

We are looking for a highly skilled, motivated and collaborative person with a PhD (or equivalent) in Biology/Ecology or Agriculture/Horticulture to investigate the impact of climate change on plant protection strategies in horticulture. The project is part of the research initiative KLIFF (Klimafolgenforschung), which is funded by the Ministry of Lower Saxony. The network "Climate Change and Production of Economic Plants - Processes and Adaptation Strategies until 2030" consist of 14 sub-projects which investigate the impact of climate change on agriculture and horticulture (www.unigoettingen.de/zlu).

The specific tasks of the PostDoc at IPP/LUH will be:
•Define and set up a model to investigate the impact of extreme weather conditions on pest population development
•Investigate the impact of spatial and temporal differences in pest – natural enemy interaction
•Perform a sensitivity analysis and run the model under different scenarios
•To generate field data on population development of selected pest species and to validate the results with field data if available

The successful candidate will work at Leibniz University Hannover (http://www.uni-hannover.de). For more information on IPP please visit the internet (http://www.ipp.uni-hannover.de).
A background in mathematics / entomology / ecology and experience in population ecology / modeling is preferred. Funding is available for 18 month and based on TV-L E13. Working place is Hannover.
Send your application and CV, including a letter of motivation and two references to: Institute of Plant Protection and Plant Diseases, Leibniz Universität Hannover, Herrenhäuserstr. 2, D-30419 Hannover, Germany. Electronic application is preferred. Application deadline: 10.03.2012

For further information contact:
Dr. Rainer Meyhöfer, email: meyhoefer@ipp.uni-hannover.de, phone: ++49/511/7622641

Field assistants in co-evolution of Asian cuckoos and passerine hosts in China and Hawaii

2012-02-08T12:57:00.002+01:00

We are looking for several field assistants to participate
our large-scale project about co-evolution of Asian cuckoos and
passerine hosts in China and Hawaii, USA, from April to June 2012
coordinated by Prof. Wei Liang from Hainan Normal University, China
(http://www.hainnu.edu.cn<http://www.hainnu.edu.cn/>).

The work will investigate egg recognition and clutch variation in several
host species of Asian cuckoos. The subprojects and working places include:

1) Plaintive cuckoo (Cacomantis merulinus), in Nonggang NR, Guangxi,
southwestern China (from early April to late June); 2) Large hawk-cuckoo
(Hierococcyx sparverioides) and Asian Emerald cuckoo (Chrysococcyx
maculatus), in Kuankuoshui NR, Guizhou, southwestern China; 3) common
cuckoo (Cuculus canorus), in Dongzhai NR, Henan, central China (April to
late June); 4) common cuckoo (Cuculus canorus) in a reed habitat, Hebei
(May to late June); 5) common cuckoo (Cuculus canorus) in Jilin, north
China (May to late June); 6) Red-billed Leiothrix (Leiothrix lutea),
a common cuckoo host and an introduced species in Hawaii (late April
to May).

We require field assistants to help in searching nests, mist-netting and
ringing birds, taking blood samples, model egg and dummy experiments and
egg spectrometer measurement. The subprojects in China will work with
Prof. Wei Liang and his PhD students from Hainan Normal University,
China. The subproject in Hawaii will work with Lijin Zeng, University
of California, Riverside, USA and Yang Liu, University of Bern,
Switzerland. We cannot cover travel expenses to the working place,
but all expenses in China or in Hawaii during field work (i.e. housing,
foods, and local travels, etc) will be covered.

The ideal candidate should have a strong interest in birds and animal
behavior, physically fit and is willing to work for long and irregular
time in the field. Previous experience of bird-handling is preferred,
but not necessary. We will offer basic trainings such as model egg and
dummy experiments, egg spectrometer measurement. The applicants should
speak English fluently and holding a driving license is expected.

The full application should include 1) a letter outlining your motivation
for this project, previous research experience and also specify
the subproject(s) that you prefer to work; 2) a CV. We appreciate
if applicants could provide a recommendation letter but it is not
compulsory. Please send your application in a single PDF file by email
to the following address:

Field work in China, Wei Liang, <liangw@hainan.net>

Field work in Hawaii, Yang Liu, <yang.liu@iee.unibe.ch>

Permanent Professor position in Integrative Ecology, University of Rennes 1, France

2012-02-07T10:18:00.002+01:00

Job Summary
Context : The University of Rennes 1 (Brittany, France) offers a full-time
permanent professor position in Integrative Ecology. The position will be
opened in the laboratory UMR CNRS 6553 “Ecosystems, Biodiversity and
Evolution” (ECOBIO). The laboratory is a joint research unit of the CNRS
Department of Ecology and Environment (INEE) and the University of Rennes
1. ECOBIO is a multidisciplinary unit working in the field of continental
Ecology, that brings together fundamental concepts and skills in
evolutionary biology, community ecology and functional ecology. Its core
research is the understanding of ecosystem functioning through the analysis
of biodiversity dynamics, from genes to landscapes, and thus offers wide
opportunities for developing integrative ecology. ECOBIO is also a member
part of the OSUR « Observatoire des Sciences de l’Univers » within the
University, that allow future applicants excellent opportunities for cross-
disciplinary research collaboration in Earth and Environmental Sciences.

Job Description
Research : Within the University of Rennes 1, and connecting with the
OSUR , we seek senior ecologists whose research interests focus on
continental ecosystems and whose research is integrative across areas of
ecology to bridge evolutionary and functional aspects of ecosystem ecology.
Applications will be particularly welcome from candidates who work on
aspects of global change and biodiversity, and aim at explaining how
phenotypic plasticity and adaptations, including behavioural and
ecophysiological ones, determine the ability of species to respond to
global changes. Research interests to investigate the paradox between the
speed at which global changes occurs and the slowness of the implementation
of the evolutionary process (microevolution, macroevolution) will be
highly considered to complement current strengths in ECOBIO. The research
expertise of the applicants could thus include invasive species, complex
community interactions, niche concept, life history traits, environmental
changes (landuse/landcover or climatic changes), and modeling or other
experimental and computational approaches of integrative ecology.

Education: The position also involves teaching at the undergraduate (BSc)
and graduate (master) educational programs in the field of ecology and
evolutionary biology. The successful candidate will primary teach in the
BSc program of “Biology of Organisms” and in the Master research
program “Functional, Behavioural and Evolutionary Ecology”, on specific
topics such as: population dynamics, evolutionary biology, community
ecology, behavioural ecology, ecophysiology, as well as the analytical
tools of modern ecology. He/She is expected to take a leadership in these
programs or others related environmental masters within the OSUR, and
interacting with the “Life and Environmental Sciences” teaching programs,
to enhance a quantitative and theoretical training of students for basic
and applied research in Ecology.

Application details :
The position will be opened on September 2012. The application has to be
submit before 27 March 2012 at the University of Rennes 1, 2 rue du
Thabor, 35042 Rennes cedex, France. Salary to be negotiated following
research experience. Experienced researchers (senior level) > 10 years of
research are expected. For additional information on the position , please
contact : francoise.binet@univ-rennes1.fr from ECOBIO, gilles.pinay@univ-
rennes1.fr from OSUR, hubert.leriveray@univ-rennes1.fr from UFR SVE or
frederic.thirot@univ-rennes1.fr from the University of Rennes1

Poste de professeur en Ecologie intégrative (section 67), Université de
Rennes 1, France

Contexte : L'Université de Rennes 1 (Bretagne, France) recrute un
professeur en écologie intégrative. Le poste est ouvert dans le
laboratoire «Ecosystèmes, Biodiversité et Evolution» (UMR CNRS 6553
ECOBIO). Le laboratoire est une unité mixte de recherche entre l’Institut
d’Ecologie et de l’Environnement du CNRS (INEE) et l'Université de Rennes
1. ECOBIO est une unité multidisciplinaire travaillant dans le domaine de
l'écologie continentale, qui réunit les concepts fondamentaux et les
compétences en biologie évolutive, écologie des communautés et écologie
fonctionnelle. Le cœur des recherches porte sur la compréhension du
fonctionnement des écosystèmes au travers de l'analyse de la dynamique de
la biodiversité, depuis les gènes jusqu’aux paysages, et offre ainsi de
larges opportunités pour le développement de l’écologie intégrative. Membre
de l’OSUR « Observatoire des Sciences de l'univers » de l'Université,
ECOBIO permet aussi aux futurs candidats d’excellentes possibilités de
collaborations et de recherches interdisciplinaires en Sciences de
l'Environnement et de la Terre.

Description du poste

Recherche : Au sein de l'Université de Rennes 1 et en connexion avec
l’OSUR, nous recherchons des écologues confirmés dont les intérêts en
recherche ciblent les écosystèmes continentaux et visent à développer
l’écologie intégrative par le rapprochement des dimensions évolutives et
fonctionnelles dans l’étude des écosystèmes. Les candidatures s’intéressant
aux relations des changements globaux et de la biodiversité et qui
cherchent à expliquer comment la plasticité phénotypique et les
adaptations, y compris écophysiologiques et comportementales, déterminent
l'aptitude des espèces à répondre aux changements globaux seront
particulièrement bienvenues. Un intérêt pour étudier le paradoxe entre la
vitesse à laquelle surviennent les changements globaux et la lenteur de la
mise en œuvre du processus évolutif (microévolution, macroévolution) sera
hautement considérée en vue de compléter les points forts actuels de
l’unité ECOBIO.
Le domaine de recherche des candidats pourrait donc inclure les espèces
envahissantes, les interactions complexes dans les communautés, le concept
de niche, les traits d’histoire de vie et les changements environnementaux
(modification de l'utilisation des terres / changements climatiques) ainsi
que la modélisation ou autres approches expérimentales et informatiques de
l'écologie intégrative.

Enseignement : Le/la professeur (e) recruté(e) dispensera des
enseignements en Ecologie et en Biologie évolutive, dans les filières de
Licence et de Master. Il / Elle enseignera en priorité dans les
programmes de « Biologie des organismes » et dans le Master recherche
d’écologie « Ecologie fonctionnelle, comportementale et évolutive,
EFCE», sur des sujets spécifiques tels que : la dynamique des populations,
la biologie évolutive, l’écologie des communautés, l’écologie
comportementale, l’écophysiologie, ainsi que les outils d'analyse de
l'écologie moderne. Des prises de responsabilités dans ces formations ou
d'autres, tels que les masters d’environnement portés par l’OSUR, et en
lien avec ceux des « Sciences de la vie et environnement », sont attendus.
On attend également de sa part un rôle de leader dans l’actualisation et le
développement des programmes d'enseignement pour améliorer une formation
théorique et quantitative des étudiants au bénéfice de la recherche
fondamentale et appliquée en écologie.

Dossier de Candidature et Détails administratifs:
Poste permanent à pourvoir à partir du 1er Septembre 2012
Date de dépôt des dossiers de candidature : 27 mars 2012 , Université de
Rennes 1, 2 rue du Thabor, 35042 Rennes cedex, France.
Pour candidater ou pour toutes informations complémentaires sur le poste ,
contacter : à l’Université de Rennes1 frederic.thirot@univ-rennes1.fr, au
laboratoire ECOBIO, francoise.binet@univ-rennes1.fr, à l’OSUR,
gilles.pinay@univ-rennes1.fr, ou à l’UFR SVE hubert.leriveray@univ-
rennes1.fr

Know where you are!

2012-02-07T10:14:00.001+01:00

It was imperative to share this amazing thing:

http://static.flabber.net/files/scale-of-the-universe-2.swf

Monfragüe Patrimonio de la Humanidad

2012-02-06T16:49:00.001+01:00

Reproduzco directamente el correo de Javier Prieta en Avesforum

Estimadas amigas y amigos:

Es un placer saludaros. Como sabréis por los medios de comunicación,
Monfragüe está luchando desde hace un tiempo para ser incluido en la
Lista del Patrimonio Mundial. Por ahora seguimos inmersos en el
trabajo de la candidatura: “Plasencia-Monfragüe-Trujillo: Paisaje
Mediterráneo”.

La decisión final sobre la inscripción en la Lista del Patrimonio
Mundial tendrá lugar en la 36ª reunión del Comité del Patrimonio
Mundial que se celebra en San Petersburgo del 24 de junio al 6 de
julio de este año. El Comité está formado por 21 Estados Partes de la
Convención elegidos por un mandato de seis años y son: Argelia,
Camboya, Colombia, Estonia, Etiopia, Francia, Alemania, India, Iraq,
Japón, Malasia, Mali, Méjico, Qatar, Rusia, Senegal, Serbia,
Sudáfrica, Suiza, Tailandia y los Emiratos Árabes.

Os animo a todos a que os unáis a la candidatura a través de la web
en http://www.paisajemediterraneo.es.

Os ruego igualmente que tras conocer nuestra candidatura, renviéis
este correo a todos vuestros contactos, para que así ellos puedan
igualmente conocerla y unirse a este proyecto.

Cuantos más seamos, ¡mucho mejor!, porque el apoyo popular es un
elemento importante para reforzar y defender la candidatura en la
reunión del Comité en Rusia.

Más información en:

www.paisajemediterraneo.es/blog

www.facebook.com/paisajemediterraneo

www.twitter.com/paisajemed

http://www.paisajemediterraneo.es/

Research assistants in Trinidad

2012-02-06T12:33:00.001+01:00

Research interns are needed to assist in a multi-disciplinary, multi-investigator, experimental study ecology and evolution in Trinidad. The research is led by Professor David Reznick at the University of California, Riverside. We seek to integrate multiple biological fields for the study of the interactions between ecological and evolutionary processes in Trinidadian streams. Duties of the position include assisting in monthly censuses of fish populations (guppies) in montane streams. The monthly censuses include long hours of laboratory time. Qualifications: We seek interns who are entertaining the possibility of pursing graduate studies in some area of ecology and evolution and who wish to gain some field research experience before entering graduate school. Research will take place in semi-remote areas of Trinidad sometimes under bad weather conditions. Applicants must be able to live and work well with others. Research will also involve carrying heavy packs over slippery and steep terrain. Applicants must be in good physical condition and be able to meet the demands of field research under these conditions. Ability to drive a standard transmission vehicle is desirable but not required. Applicants with first-aid/first responder training, skills in automobile maintenance, and construction skills are highly desirable. Please address these skills when applying.

Interns will be required to spend a minimum of 3-months in Trinidad, with possibility of extension. Starting dates are flexible, starting as early as March 2012. We will cover travel expenses and living expenses.

Applicants should send cover letter, CV and the names, phone numbers and e-mail addresses of three or more professional references to David Reznick (gupy@ucr.edu). At least two of the references should be academics.

Andres Lopez-Sepulcre
Laboratoire d'Ecologie, UMR 7625
Ecole Normale Superieure, Paris
alopez@biologie.ens.fr

http://web.me.com/asepulcre

Post-doctoral contract offered in Spain

2012-02-06T12:31:00.001+01:00

We offer a post-doctoral research contract of 12 months (renewable for
other 12 months) in behavioural ecology, starting between October and
December 2012. The position will be held at the University of Valladolid,
Department of Agroforestry (Spain) in collaboration with the University
of Oviedo (Research Unit of Biodiversity; UO-CSIC) to investigate
cooperative behaviour, sociality and communication in a captive colony
of carrion crows.

Our main lines of investigation address individual and social factors
promoting the evolution of cooperation, reciprocity and communication in
the carrion crow, a bird species characterized by an extreme plasticity
in social and reproductive behaviour, from social monogamy and weak
territoriality to kin-based social living, cooperative breeding and
strong territorial behaviour. The aims of our current projects are to
investigate sociality, cooperation and reciprocity outside the context of
reproduction, using captive crows as study subjects. Besides the current
research lines, the candidate will propose and develop his/her own ideas
and will help supervising one-two PhD students.

WHO WE LOOK FOR

The ideal candidate should possess the following characteristics:

- PhD in biology with expertise in behavioural ecology and/or
animal cognition

- Good scientific skills including experimental design,
statistical treatment of data and scientific writing

- Research experience with captive (or habituated) animals

- Excellent knowledge of English

- Good aptitudes for working in a group and supervising students

- Propensity for working with basic facilities

- Valid driving licence for Europe

Knowledge of Spanish is recommended and use of a private car would be
desirable

WHAT WE OFFER

- A captive colony of 11 well habituated carrion crows of both
sexes, comprising 4 pairs of siblings and 3 unrelated
individuals. It will be possible to increase the colony. Our
birds are housed in a spacious, outdoors aviary divided into 4
main compartments (12 x 6 mt each) plus 8 experimental
compartments (3 x3 m each) visually isolated from each other.

- Funds to cover research expenses through national and regional
research grants

- Top quality audio and video recording equipments

The deadline for applications is 15 APRIL 2012

Candidates should present:

- a complete CV

- 2 recommendation letters (one from the thesis supervisor)

- A research proposal of maximum 2 A4 sheets

The application should be prepared in an electronic format (PDF or WORD)
and sent as attached file to canestraridaniela@uniovi.es

See www.cooperativecrows.com for more details

Daniela Canestrari <canestraridaniela@uniovi.es>

Fully funded PhD Project Opportunities with the Wildlife Genetics Laboratory, Institute for Applied Ecology, University of Canberra

2012-02-06T12:28:00.004+01:00

Discovering candidate sex determining genes in a reptile with genetic and temperature dependent sex determination

We are seeking potentially TWO FULLY FUNDED PhD students with interests in genomics, genetics and reproduction, molecular cytogenetics and evolution to carry out targeted and intensive molecular and functional characterisation of candidate sex determining genes in a model reptile species.

Project Description

Sex determination in vertebrates is the focus of vigorous enquiry, because of its intrinsic interest as a crucial fundamental biological process. Yet, despite decades of work, we know remarkably little, in vertebrates generally, of the processes that direct sexual development down one or the other of the male or female development pathways, and sex determining genes have been identified in only a handful of vertebrate species. Non-mammalian systems are much less well understood, partly because they have received less attention, but also because of their astonishing diversity. Reptiles, in particular have a truly impressive array of sex-determining modes, compared with the conservatism of mammals and birds. Among reptiles with genotypic sex determination (GSD), male and female heterogamety (XY and ZW) is known in turtles, female heterogamety (ZW, ZZW, or ZWW) is known in snakes and both male and female heterogamety (including XXY) are known in lizards.

The aim of this project is to carry out targeted and intensive molecular and functional characterisations of candidate sex determining genes in the model reptile, the central bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps) in order to identify key sex determining genes in this species and to use this information to dissect evolutionary mechanisms initiating sex chromosome differentiation within reptiles.

Prospective students

The prospective candidate should have experience in routine molecular genetics and cytogenetics, evolutionary genetics and genomics techniques including basic knowledge with Next Generation Sequencing approaches and analyses. The prospective candidates are expected to have demonstrated capacity to learn new techniques and skills necessary for the successful completion of the project. Candidates with previous experience in working on molecular aspects of sex determination in non model species will be advantageous but not essential.

Minimum qualifications

B.Sc. with first class Honours degree or equivalent in Genetics, Genomics, Molecular Biology, comparative genomics, molecular cytogenetics.

Scholarship Funding

Scholarships are available for high performing students through one off special funding which includes maintenance, tuition fees exemption and basic research funding.

Eligibility

These two scholarships are open to all nationalities. However, international students need to fulfill the admission criteria set by the University of Canberra including successful completion of English language test. Please see the link below for detailed about admission at the University of Canberra.

http://www.canberra.edu.au/research-students/apply.

Domestic students with first class Honours are eligible for university of Canberra PhD scholarship as well as top-up scholarship offered by IAE. See the link below for IAE top up scholarship.

http://www.canberra.edu.au/centres/iae/

How to Apply

Prospective applicants are encouraged to make informal enquiries to Associate Professor Tariq Ezaz via email. The successful applicants are expected to start in May-June 2012, however, position will remain open until filled.

Please send your Curriculum Vitae, a summary of your written scientific work, copy of your academic transcript, and the names of three referees (one of whom should be your most recent research supervisor).

Please email above documents with a covering letter to:

Associate Professor Tariq Ezaz

E-mail: Tariq.Ezaz@canberra.edu.au

Institute for Applied Ecology (http://www.canberra.edu.au/centres/iae/index.php)

(http://www.canberra.edu.au/centres/iae/staff/ezaz/ezaz-home.php)

Opina! Legislación Especies exóticas invasoras

2012-02-03T17:56:00.000+01:00

(Gracias a Artur Degollada desde Herpetoforum)
La Dirección General de Medio Ambiente de la Comisión Europea tiene abierto un período de consultas y participación pública (del 27/01/2012 al 12/04/2012) dedicado al instrumento legislativo sobre especies exóticas invasoras con el que se quiere dotar al ordenamiento jurídico de la Unión Europea. En esta página web se indica como participar con contribuciones:
http://ec.europa.eu/environment/consultations/invasive_aliens.htm

Specialty plant/field botany courses

2012-02-03T09:12:00.001+01:00

Earthquest Biological Field School
Proudly presents the 2012 schedule for Level 3 FBT specialty plant/field botany courses. We've specialized in vascular plant field courses tailored toward the needs and issues experienced by environmental practioners, environmental consultants, planners, restoration ecologists and other related disciplines. Since 2004 we have trained over 400 practioners and professionals from Conservation Authorities, provincial and federal government agencies, consulting firms, students and educators. Learn how to quickly and efficiently field identify vascular plants to family level (Level 1 FBT plant courses), genus (Level 2 FBT plant courses) and species (Level 3 FBT plant specialty courses) in compliance with the principles and concepts of Ecological Land Classification (ELC), Ontario Wetland Evaluation System (OWES), Environmental Assessments, Natural Heritage Impact Studies, vegetation/floristic surveys, restoration plans, Environmental Impact Statements, etc.
The Senior Instructor for this course is Dave Jolly, a 20+ year vetran of field botany who has conducted numerous ELC/OWES field investigations in Ontario. He has also led international research/conservation expeditions to Central and South America as well as southeast Asia in search of plants. Dave teaches his plant certification courses based on visual cues and characteristics exhibited by plant families, genera and species. By learning the family traits, for example, you would be able to apply them to all other plant families around the world. Genera traits focus more in regional characterisitcs within the 5 forest regions of Ontario, while species traits are specific to the plants found within Ecoregions (ie. Carolinian and Mixed deciduous forest regions of Ontario). Courses are typically taught over weekend schedules (Sat./Sun.) to allow participants to fit them into their busy field agendas during the week. We could also customize courses to fit your needs/schedule.
Two new field botany courses have been added for 2012; Level 3 FBT Ferns of Ontario and Level 3 FBT Asters & Goldenrods of Ontario. Most courses have field manuals/books (with numerous colour photos of twigs, fruits, leaves, flowers, during spring, winter, summer, fall) which supplement/compliment the learning curve while immersed in these intensive 2 day field courses. Courses cost $800.00 + HST = $904.00 + books, but if you find a friend you receive a discount. There is also an early bird discount available for those who register before the registration deadline. Participants receive a CD with over 7000 colour photos of vascular plants broken down by family, genus and species common names + course material (downloaded as PDF files from our website) for the course fee.
To learn more about these courses plus the Level 1 and 2 FBT plant courses please consult; www.wix.com/earthquestcanada/plant-courses and click on the Level 3 course reservations button, or contact us directly at; earthquestcanada@yahoo.com and request a registration package and/or a list of graduates + their contact info, who have taken courses.
Sincerely,
Dave Jolly, B.Sc.,
Senior Instructor
EARTHQUEST Biological Field School
www.earthquestcanada.ca

POSTDOCTORAL POSITION IN EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY (EVOLVABILITY OF ALLOMETRY)

2012-02-03T09:02:00.000+01:00

Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)

NTNU - Innovation and Creativity The Norwegian University of Science and
Technology (NTNU) in Trondheim represents academic eminence in technology
and the natural sciences as well as in other academic disciplines ranging
from the social sciences, the arts, medicine, architecture to fine
arts. Cross-disciplinary cooperation results in innovative breakthroughs
and creative solutions with far-reaching social and economic impact.

Faculty of Natural Science and Technology Department of Biology

POSTDOCTORAL POSITION IN EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY (EVOLVABILITY OF ALLOMETRY)
A 2-year postdoctoral fellowship in quantitative genetics is available at
the Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology
(NTNU), Trondheim, Norway. The position is related to the project
“Evolvability of Allometry”, funded by the Research Council of Norway.

The project involves theoretical and experimental research in quantitative
genetics related to the evolvability of allometry. We are looking for
a motivated candidate with a solid knowledge in evolutionary biology
and quantitative genetics. The post-doc will have responsibility for
artificial selection work on a plant species but is also expected
to develop his/her own research in relation to the evolution of
allometry. Because the project has a theoretical component we will
favour candidates with a solid knowledge in modelling and statistics. The
project is managed by Christophe Pelabon at NTNU (Trondheim), in close
collaboration with Thomas F. Hansen (University of Oslo) and although the
main working place is Trondheim, the post-doc will be able to interact
with the teams at both institutions. Ability to goal-oriented work,
ability to deliver, oral and written presentation of research results,
and good co-operation abilities will be emphasized.

The post-doc will be formally employed by the Faculty of Natural Sciences
at the NTNU, and will become a member of the Department of Biology. The
Department of Biology has 36 members of faculty (professors and
associate professors), 22 research scientists and about 70 PhD students
and post docs. The department has research programs in evolutionary
biology, population genetics, aquatic and terrestrial ecology,
conservation biology and biodiversity, ethology, molecular biology,
cell biology, plant and animal physiology, toxicology, aquaculture,
and marine biology. There is considerable collaboration between the
disciplines. More information about the Department of Biology can be
found at: www.ntnu.no/biologi/english<http://www.ntnu.no/biologi/english>

The positions adhere to the Norwegian Government’s policy of balanced
ethnicity, age and gender. A NTNU objective is to increase the number
of females in scientific positions. Female applicants are therefore
encouraged to apply.

The appointment will be made according to the general regulations
regarding university employees. Post doctors are remunerated in salary
code 1352, normally at wage level 57 (level LR24) on the Norwegian
Government pay scale, gross NOK 455 900 per year before tax. There is 2%
deduction for superannuation.

Please contact associate professor
Christophe Pelabon (tel +47 73 59 03 39, email:
christophe.pelabon@bio.ntnu.no

or Professor Thomas Hansen (tel +47 22 85 45 21, email:
thomas.f.hansen@bio.uio.no for further
information about the postdoc, and in case of questions regarding the
application procedure.

Applicants should describe why they want the position and why they
are well suited for it. Applications should also include a CV with a
complete publication list, 3 selected publications (or manuscripts),
documentation of educational background and other relevant experience,
and 3 named references (incl. email and phone no.). Please include a brief
description of the applicant’s contribution in cases of multi-authored
publications (submitted or listed in the CV) where the applicant is not
the first author.

Applications should be submitted electronically through
http://www.jobbnorge.no Application deadline:
1 March 2012. Reference number: NT-10/12.

HenvisninGsannonse i ADRESSEAVISEN, Aftenposten og BErgens TIDENE

POSTDOCTORAL Position at the Department of Biology

1 Postdoctoral Position in Evolutionary Biology, ref. no NT-10/12
A 2-year position is announced in theoretical quantitative
genetics to study the evolvability of allometry. Questions
regarding the position can be directed to associate
professor Christophe Pelabon (tel +47 73 59 03 39, email:
christophe.pelabon@bio.ntnu.no
or Professor Thomas Hansen (tel +47 22 85 45 21, email:
thomas.f.hansen@bio.uio.no

A detailed announcement of the position can be found at
www.jobbnorge.no Further information about
the Department of Biology can be found at: http://www.bio.ntnu.no/eng/

Applications should be sent electronically through
www.jobbnorge.no Reference number:
NT-10/12. Application deadline: 1 March 2012.

Field Assistants Required-Columbian ground squirrels

2012-02-02T10:58:00.001+01:00

Sheep River Provincial Park, Alberta, Canada

We are looking for 4-5 volunteers to assist with fieldwork for the
period of April 15 to Aug 31, 2012. The project investigates the
evolutionary ecology of Columbian ground squirrels. As a member of
the study, assistants will be involved with monitoring the phenology
(when animals emerge from hibernation), reproduction and survival of
individuals. Fieldwork will involve live-trapping and handling of animals,
behavioural observation, radio-telemetry (to locate natal burrows) and
assistance with the measurement of physiological (metabolism) traits on
free-ranging animals. This is an excellent opportunity to gain experience
working with a collaborative research team on a long-term study of a
wild mammal. Opportunities exist for side-projects for interested and
motivated applicants.

All fieldwork is carried out in the spectacular Rocky Mountains of
southwestern Alberta, Canada, home to some of the most majestic wildlife
in North America. We will be staying at the University of Calgary's
R.B. Miller research station in Sheep River Provincial Park, Alberta
(http://bgs.ucalgary.ca/facilities/facilities). You will interact with
other researchers working with ground squirrels on a diversity of projects
in behavioural and population ecology. Additionally, the field station is
home to a number of other researchers working on a variety of projects,
ranging from insects to large mammals. Food and accommodation are
provided, but you will be required to make your own way to either Calgary
or Edmonton. Training will be provided and no experience is necessary,
but candidates should have an interest in a number of the following (the
more the better!): ecology, evolutionary biology, wildlife, field biology,
and animal behaviour. Periods of time will be spent camping and, as such,
successful applicants need to enjoy the outdoors, be up-beat, positive,
responsible and work well as a member of a team. If you wish to apply for
one of these posts then please send a CV with a cover letter and contact
details of three references (with e-mail address), by email to Jeff Lane
(contact info below), by March 08, 2012.

Contact:

Dr. Jeff Lane
u.columbianus@hotmail.com
Department of Biological Sciences
University of Alberta
Edmonton, AB
Canada T6G 2E9

II Curso Completo de Ornitología en Talavera de la Reina, Toledo

2012-02-01T16:42:00.001+01:00

ARDEIDAS/SEO-Talavera organizan el II Curso Completo de Ornitología en Talavera de la Reina, Toledo, los sábados del 25 de Febrero al 24 de Marzo. Precios muy asequibles. 20 horas teóricas y 10 prácticas. Para iniciados y noveles en ornitología. Se hará hincapié en conservación e identificación. Para reservas o más información, contacten en cursos.ardeidas@gmail.com

Ph.D. position in evolutionary sequence analysis

2012-02-01T09:31:00.000+01:00

I am looking for a Ph.D. candidate to work on evolutionary sequence
analysis. Depending on his/her background, the candidate can either
participate on the methods development or focus on the application of
these methods in research topics of special interest. The candidate
should minimally be familiar with Linux/Unix systems and working with
the command-line interface but also candidates with a pure computational
background are encouraged to apply.

In the past, the group has created the PRANK alignment software
(http://tinyurl.com/prank-msa) and is now working on its successor,
PAGAN (http://tinyurl.com/pagan-msa)

. In addition to phylogenetic
sequence alignment and its applications in comparative analyses, we are
interested in the use of next-generation sequencing (NGS) data in
evolutionary analyses of non-model organisms and in metagenomic
analyses. More information of our current research topics can be found
on the group's home page at http://blogs.helsinki.fi/sa-at-bi. The
group's working language is English.

The group is based at the Institute of Biotechnology
(www.biocenter.helsinki.fi/bi/), an independent research institute
within the University of Helsinki. The institute is an international
workplace with staff coming from 30 different countries and exceeding
300 in total. In addition to 28 research groups, the institute has
seven core facilities, the DNA sequencing lab hosting e.g. 454,
Illumina, Solid and (soon) PacBio DNA sequencing devices. The group has
access to a supercomputer and high-performance clusters at the national
computer centre. Helsinki itself is a lively city with a metropolitan
area of 1.2 million inhabitants.

Depending on their background, the Ph.D. students at the institute
participate on different graduate schools. In addition to graduate
schools in biotechnology and molecular biology, there are ones e.g. in
computational sciences and in informational and structural biology.

Applications are accepted from 1 Feb onwards and until the position is
filled. Please send your application, together with a full CV, copies
of publications or relevant certificates, and the names of two referees
to Ari Löytynoja (ari.loytynoja@helsinki.fi).

Ari Löytynoja

Field assistants in evolutionary ecology of Great tits (Parus major), Switzerland

2012-02-01T09:28:00.002+01:00

I am looking for two enthusiastic field assistants for the upcoming
field season (1st of April until end of June 2012) to join my project
investigating the relationship between begging behavior and oxidative
stress in great tits. The fieldwork will take place in a forest near Bern.

I will require field assistants to help with all aspects of the work,
including nest checks, ringing and taking body measures of the birds,
recording the nests and some smaller amount of lab work. Experience in
fieldwork and bird handling would be an advantage. Since we will work
many hours in the forest in all weather conditions, motivation is very
important.

Applicants should speak English fluently and have a driving license.

Travel expenses and accommodation will be paid, additionally; the field
assistants will receive approximately 900 Swiss Francs per month to
cover their expenses.

Applications should include a CV and a short letter of motivation.

Please send your application to:
Lea Maronde (Evolutionary Ecology, University of Bern)
E-mail: lea.maronde@iee.unibe.ch

PhD position in Ecology / Habitat modelling Project B2.1 [Ref. #B52a]

2012-01-31T09:40:00.003+01:00

The Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre (BiK-F) is a new
interdisciplinary institute with the mission to carry out internationally
outstanding research on the interactions of biodiversity and climate change
on the organism level. It has been founded by the Senckenberg Gesellschaft
für Naturforschung, the Goethe-University Frankfurt am Main, and other
partners. The Centre is funded by the Federal State of Hesse through its
Initiative for the Development of Scientific and Economic Excellence
(LOEWE). It provides a new, dynamic research environment that integrates a
variety of disciplines from both natural and social sciences. The Project
Area B “Biodiversity Dynamics and Climate” invites applications for a

PhD position in Ecology / Habitat modelling Project B2.1 [Ref. #B52a]

The main goal of the project is to model the distribution of marine benthos
species in response to climate change. The successful applicant will
investigate the impact of climatic factors on the distribution patterns of
benthic organisms and develop methods to improve the performance of the
modelling methods. We aim at applying new statistical quantitative methods
for predicting changes of the functioning of marine benthic ecosystems in
response to climate forcing.

The ideal applicant will have practical experience in statistical methods to
model species distribution and GIS. We encourage application from non marine
disciplines if the candidate has experience in distribution modelling
methods. We seek a motivated, organized, independent and enthusiastic
candidate with an MSc (or equivalent) in ecology, marine ecology, or related
disciplines.

Salary and benefits are according to a public service position in Germany
(TV-H E13, 50%). The Research Centre BiK-F advocates gender equality. Women
are therefore strongly encouraged to apply. Equally qualified severely
handicapped applicants will be given preference.

The position is a 27 months employment, starting April 1st, 2012. Given
further funding of BiK-F, a follow-up contract is generally aspired. The
project is carried out in cooperation with Dr. Henning Reiss, Marine Ecology
group at the University of Nordland (BodØ, Norway), where the candidate will
be enrolled as PhD student. The candidate will mainly work at Senckenberg am
Meer in Wilhelmshaven (Germany) with abroad stays at the University of
Nordland for one year in total. The candidate will be enrolled in the PhD
program at the University of Nordland.

Please send your application by mail or (preferably) e-mail attachment,
mentioning the reference of this position (#B52a) and including a letter
outlining your suitability for the post, a detailed CV, contact details of 2
referees and a selection of your most important publications before February
24th, 2012 to: Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. V. Mosbrugger, Scientific Coordinator
Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre, Senckenberganlage 25, D-60325
Frankfurt am Main, Germany. E-mail to Service and Administration:
recruiting@senckenberg.de. For scientific enquiries please write to PD Dr.
Ingrid Kröncke (email: Ingrid.Kroencke@senckenberg.de

) or Dr. Henning Reiss
(email: henning.reiss@uin.no).

Postgraduate PhD position in Animal Ecology - sexually antagonistic genetic variation

2012-01-31T09:23:00.003+01:00

at the Department of Ecology and Genetics, Evolutionary Biology Centre
(EBC) with a tentative starting date being May 1^st , 2012, or as soon
as possible after this date. The Evolutionary Biology Center hosts one
of the world's largest aggregations of evolutionary biologists, and is a
prime research environment for a wide range of fields in evolutionary
biology (see "http://www.ebc.uu.se/" for more information). The working
atmosphere is very international with English as our operational
language. Our graduate school offers a creative and stimulating
environment and is very rich in seminars, courses and possibilities to
interact with other scholars and students (see
"http://www.ebc.uu.se/education/") -- graduate students recently ranked
Uppsala University in first place among all institutions in Europe in
the subject of biology (CHE European ranking). Uppsala University is the
oldest university in Scandinavia and the city of Uppsala is a vibrant
student town with beautiful surroundings conveniently situated 35
minutes by train from Stockholm.

*Brief research outline: **Although males and females share much of the
same genome, selection can be distinct in the two sexes. Sexually
antagonistic loci are those loci where selection acts in opposing
directions in the two sexes. This PhD student position is aimed at
improving our emerging understanding of the **architecture of sexually
antagonistic genetic variation**. Insects (seed beetles and/or fruit
flies) will serve as main model systems and the research will primarily
employ quantitative genetic techniques. The research will establish a
series of discrete genotypes and use crosses between these to analyse,
describe and understand the architecture of sexually antagonistic
genetic variation. Traits in focus are sex specific measures of life
history traits (especially metabolism) and integrative traits such as
life-time fitness. ***

*This PhD *position forms a part of a new project on genetic conflict,
funded by the European Research Council and the Swedish Research
Council. The entire project will employ some 6-8 PhD students and
postdocs, apart from a full time TA and the PI, and will strongly
encourage interactions and collaborations within the group.

*Salary and appointment*: The duration of the PhD training period is
four full years. The successful candidate will receive a postgraduate
fellowship the first year (currently 15.500 SEK/month) and a
postgraduate position year 2-4 (currently 23.300 -- 26.400 SEK/month)
including full social benefits.

*Eligibility:*The successful candidate should have a relevant MSc degree
(or equivalent) in biology/ecology.

*Qualifications and merits*: We seek highly motivated candidates with a
documented and strong interest in evolutionary biology and/or
evolutionary genetics, preferably also with past experience of
quantitative genetic analyses and an understanding of life history
theory and sexual selection. Experience of laboratory work with insects
is a merit as is previous experience of scientific writing and
publishing. Because the holder of this position will collaborate and
interact closely with other members of the group, we will put emphasis
on both independence and ability to collaborate.The applicant is
expected to have a good knowledge (spoken and written) of the English
language.

*To apply:*Applications should include (1) personal
information/background, (2) complete CV (3) a description of
undergraduate training, (4) an authorized copy of the undergraduate
degree and (5) the names and email addresses of three referees.
Applications should be sent either by regular mail to: Göran Arnqvist,
Animal Ecology, Dept. of Ecology and Genetics, Norbyv. 18D, University
of Uppsala, SE-752 36 Uppsala, Sweden; or electronically as PDF files
via email to: Goran.Arnqvist@ebc.uu.se. *Closing date for applications
is March 20, 2012*.

*For further information*about the position, please contact the main
supervisor and PI of the group: Professor Göran Arnqvist (phone +46
18 471 2645, e-mail Goran.Arnqvist@ebc.uu.se).

--

******************************

******************************
Prof. Göran Arnqvist
Animal Ecology
Department of Ecology and Evolution
Evolutionary Biology Centre
University of Uppsala
Norbyvägen 18d
SE - 752 36 Uppsala
Sweden

Email: Goran.Arnqvist@ebc.uu.se
Phone: +46-(0)18-471 2645
Cell phone: +46-(0)70-2935032
Fax: +46-(0)18-471 6484
NEW homepage with PDF reprints and more at:
http://www.anst.uu.se/goarn789/index.html
******************************************

Postdoctoral Researcher in Evolutionary Biology (UFV-PA 2012/68)

2012-01-31T09:22:00.001+01:00

at the Animal Ecology Program, the Department of Ecology and Genetics,
Evolutionary Biology Centre (EBC) with starting date being May 1^st ,
2012, or as soon as possible after this date. The Evolutionary Biology
Center hosts one of the world's largest aggregations of evolutionary
biologists, and is a prime research environment for a wide range of
fields in evolutionary biology and genetics (see "http://www.ebc.uu.se/"
for more information). The working atmosphere is very international with
English as our operational language. Uppsala University is the oldest
university in Scandinavia and the city of Uppsala is a vibrant student
town with beautiful surroundings conveniently situated 40 minutes with
train from Stockholm.

*Brief research outline: **The holder of this position will direct
research towards an evolutionary understanding of **the genomics of
metabolic rate**. Insects (seed beetles) will serve as the model system.
The candidate will first complete a collaborative effort to produce a
/de novo/ complete genome sequence of our main model system
(/Callosobruchus maculatus/) which is currently underway. The holder of
this position will then concentrate on the genetics of metabolic rate
using focussed genotype-phenotype matching and upon sex-specific
selection on discrete genotypes using experimental genomics. This
research will involve whole-organism phenotyping of metabolic rate
(using a state-of-the art respirometry system) and will focus on those
nuclear and mitochondrial genes that are involved in the oxphos pathway
and epistatic interactions between these.*

*This post*doctoral position forms a part of a new project on genetic
conflict, funded by the European Research Council and the Swedish
Research Council. The entire project will employ some 6-8 postdocs and
PhD students, apart from a full time TA and the PI, and will strongly
encourage interactions and collaborations within the group.**

*Salary and appointment*: The period of initial appointment is two
years, with the possibility of prolonging the contract with another two
years *(i.e., 2+2 years)*. Uppsala University adopts an individual
salary policy but the starting salary for postdoctoral researchers is
typically about 29.000 SEK per month and includes full social benefits.

*Eligibility:*The successful candidate must have a Ph.D, or an exam
which is judged comparable to a PhD, that was completed within three
years of the application deadline. Applicants that received their PhD
earlier than this date will be considered if special circumstances exist
(such as prolonged periods of illness, parental leave, military service,
union duties and others of similar character).

*Qualifications and merits*: The ideal candidate has a documented
expertise in using genomic tools in evolutionary biology and has a
documented interest in the study of phenotypic selection and/or general
evolutionary theory. Experience of /de novo/ next-generation sequencing
is a merit, as is experience of genotype-phenotype matching using
genomic data and/or comparative genomics. Experience of laboratory work
with insects and/or previous experience of work with respirometry
phenotyping of metabolism will also be considered merits. Because the
holder of this position will interact and collaborate closely with other
members of the group, we will put emphasis on both independence and
ability to collaborate. The holder of this position will be responsible
for orchestrating part of the larger research project as an independent
junior scientist and the ideal candidate therefore already has some
postdoctoral research experience.**

*To apply:*Candidates should submit a cover letter, a curriculum vitae
including a list of publications and a short (1-3 pages) description of
past research accomplishments and future research ambitions. Applicants
should also include names and e-mail addresses of two referees and
should specify the date they will be available to start the position.

*For further information*about the position, please contact the PI of
the group: Professor Göran Arnqvist (phone +46 18 471 2645, e-mail
Goran.Arnqvist@ebc.uu.se). The trade union representatives are Anders
Grundström, Saco (the Swedish Confederation of Professional
Associations), phone +46 18 471 5380, Carin Söderhäll, TCO/ST (the
Swedish Confederation of Professional Employees), phone +46 18 471 1996,
and Stefan Djurström, Seko (the Union of Service and Communication
Employees), phone +46 18 471 3315.

*You are welcome*to submit your application no later than *March
20**,**2012 (UFV-PA 2012/68)*. Please use the link below for access to
an on-line application portal:

http://www2.personalavd.uu.se/ledigaplatser/68postdokENG.html

--

******************************

******************************

Prof. Göran Arnqvist
Animal Ecology
Department of Ecology and Evolution
Evolutionary Biology Centre
University of Uppsala
Norbyvägen 18d
SE - 752 36 Uppsala
Sweden

Email:Goran.Arnqvist@ebc.uu.se
Phone: +46-(0)18-471 2645
Cell phone: +46-(0)70-2935032
Fax: +46-(0)18-471 6484
NEW homepage with PDF reprints and more at:
http://www.anst.uu.se/goarn789/index.html
********************************

Ofertas de trabajo para biólogos (Directiva Aves y Hábitat)

2012-01-30T10:31:00.002+01:00

La empresa TRAGSA-TRAGSATEC, está buscando dos candidatos para una licitación internacional para la IMPLEMENTACIÓN DE LAS DIRECTIVAS AVES Y HÁBITAT EN BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA.

en los siguientes puestos:

TEAM LEADER:

Formación y Experiencia

- Licenciado en Ciencias biológicas, ciencias ambientales o similar

- Perfecto manejo hablado y escrito de la lengua inglesa

- Al menos 10 años de experiencia profesional en gestión ambiental

- Experiencia en gestión de proyectos (participación como Team Leader o puesto equivalente en al menos 2 proyectos relacionados con el objeto de este contrato)

- Mínimo 5 años de experiencia en implementación de las Directivas Aves y Hábitat en Estados de la UE o países candidatos

- Experiencia en refuerzo de capacidades de instituciones con competencia en naturaleza y conservación de la biodiversidad (al menos 2 proyectos relacionados con esta área)

- Se valorará experiencia en comunicación/divulgación de temas científicos relativos a la conservación

Tiempo de estancia en el extranjero: aprox. 400 días

Dedicación: tiempo completo

Condiciones de la contratación:

- Contrato laboral por obra o servicio

- 75.000 €/año (estimado). Este importe incluye la manutención y alojamiento en el país de destino

- 6 vuelos de ida/vuelta al año.

ESPECIALISTA EN BIODIVERSIDAD

Formación y Experiencia

- Licenciado en Ciencias biológicas, ciencias ambientales o similar

- Perfecto manejo hablado y escrito de la lengua inglesa

- Al menos 10 años de experiencia profesional en conservación de la biodiversidad

- Al menos 5 años de experiencia en inventariación y cartografía de la biodiversidad

- Experiencia en el establecimiento y/o gestión de áreas protegidas (al menos 2 proyectos relacionados con esta área)

- Experiencia en elaboración de modelos de conservación en áreas protegidas (al menos 1 proyecto relacionados con esta área)

- Experiencia en Biodiversidad y trabajos de conservación en el Sudeste europeo (al menos 1 proyectos relacionados con esta área)

Tiempo de estancia en el extranjero: aprox. 300 días

Dedicación: tiempo completo

Condiciones de la contratación:

- Contrato laboral por obra o servicio

- 70.000 €/año (estimado), prorrateado a los días de estancia en el extranjero y de 40.000 €/año (estimado) para el tiempo de trabajo en España. Este importe incluye la manutención y alojamiento en el país de destino

- 6 vuelos de ida/vuelta al año.

Duración del proyecto: 2 años

Comienzo: previsto en junio 2012

Plazo de presentación de los candidatos: 10 de febrero de 2012

Actualmente el proyecto está en fase de presentación de ofertas por parte de una preselección de 8 candidaturas entre la que se encuentra la nuestra.

Los interesados pueden enviar su Cv a Elena Bermejo Bermejo, ebermej1@tragsa.es ó Íñigo Vázquez-Dodero ivazquez@tragsa.es

Para más información contactar con Elena Bermejo: ebermej1@tragsa.es; 913225996 o Íñigo Vázquez-Dodero ivazquez@tragsa.es; 913226478.

Muchas gracias

Un cordial saludo

Elena Bermejo Bermejo

Gerencia de Biodiversidad -TRAGSATEC

c/Julián Camarillo 6B 1D 28037 Madrid

tef: 91 322 59 96

Cursos Darwin Eventur

2012-01-23T18:40:00.002+01:00

Hola a todos,

ya tenemos preparado el curso del que os hablamos en el anterior email:

"Iniciación a las técnicas in-situ para el estudio de fauna silvestre" del 2 al 4 y del 9 al 11 de Marzo de 2012 (dos fines de semana completos) impartiéndose entre la Facultad de Ciencias y el Cortijo Narváez, situado en el Parque Natural de la Sierra de Baza, en horario de mañana y tarde.

La duración total del curso será de 50 horas.

Se van a solicitar créditos de libre configuración para varias Facultades de la Universidad de Granada, los interesados enviadnos un email a info@darwineventur.es y os informaremos.

El precio ÚNICO del curso es de 115 euros, podéis ver lo que incluye y lo que no incluye, además del programa completo en la web: http://darwineventur.us4.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=964583f9916a7b3e0914105f8&id=4f588540d7&e=e39e20dd28

Por otro lado, deciros que el curso "Introducción a R: Análisis estadístico aplicado al Medio Ambiente" del 19 al 23 de Marzo de 2012, en horario de tarde, ya sólo quedan 5 plazas, por lo que los interesados no tardéis en enviarnos la preinscripción. Podéis ver la información en: http://darwineventur.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=964583f9916a7b3e0914105f8&id=97a32707dd&e=e39e20dd28

Cualquier duda o sugerencia escribidme.

un saludo,

Antonio Fdez.

Cursos online de veterinaria

2012-01-02T13:06:00.002+01:00

DEL 23 AL 27 DE ENERO DEL 2012
CURSO ON_LINE DE AUXILIAR TÉCNICO VETERINARIO EN FAUNA SILVESTRE
BOLETIN DE INSCRIPCION curso on_line de auxiliar técnico veterinario en fauna silvestre

DEL 13 AL 17 DE FEBRERO DE 2012
CURSO ON_LINE DE VETERINARIA EN FAUNA SILVESTRE
BOLETIN DE INSCRIPCION curso on_line de veterinaria en fauna silvestre

Han salido las FPU

2011-12-20T10:43:00.002+01:00

BOE 20/12/2011

MINISTERIO DE EDUCACIÓN

Ayudas

Orden EDU/3445/2011, de 30 de noviembre, por la que se conceden ayudas para becas y contratos del programa de formación de profesorado universitario, en el marco del Estatuto del personal investigador en formación.

http://www.boe.es/boe/dias/2011/12/20/pdfs/BOE-A-2011-19837.pdf

Postdoc in comparative genomics

2011-12-15T15:53:00.002+01:00

Postdoctoral position in comparative genomics of sharks and rays using
next generation sequencing data in the laboratory of Gavin Naylor at
the College of Charleston and the Medical University of South Carolina
in Charleston, South Carolina. The project is part of an NSF Tree of
Life project to reconstruct the evolutionary history of
chondrichthyan fishes based on both molecular and morphological data.

The selected candidate will have a Ph.D. in bioinformatics or a
closely related field and have strong programming skills. Applicants
must have experience with methods and software tools for analyzing
next generation sequencing data and transcriptomes. While experience
with comparative genomics, alignment and phylogenetic analysis is
desired, it is not required.

The selected candidate will work as part of a team of highly
interactive evolutionary biologists exploring the evolution of
vertebrate animals. Applicants should submit a CV and cover letter to
Gavin Naylor (gjpnaylor@gmail.com).

gjpnaylor@gmail.com

Oikos Editor in Chief Vacancy

2011-12-15T09:32:00.001+01:00

http://oikosjournal.wordpress.com/2011/12/14/oikos-editor-in-chief-vacancy/

3 PhD in Germany

2011-12-14T11:45:00.002+01:00

Hannover Biomedical Research School, as part of Hannover Medical School (MHH), invites applications for its three PhD programs to commence in October 2012.
Our offer
HBRS is one of Germany’s leading graduate schools, funded by the Excellence Initiative and offering top-level research, education and training possibilities. Under this umbrella our three international PhD programs Infection Biology, Molecular Medicine and Regenerative Sciences provide fully-funded studentships for a three-year course. In all three programs the focus is placed on individual research projects, complemented by program specific seminars as well as an individualized curriculum comprising lab and soft-skill courses, congresses, symposia and summer schools. Communication and teaching language throughout HBRS is English. Upon graduation students are awarded a PhD – life scientists may alternatively choose a Dr. rer. nat.
Our expectations
All three PhD programs are aimed at highly motivated postgraduates with a background in Medicine, Veterinary Medicine or the Life Sciences. The PhD program Regenerative Sciences is also open to students from a Materials Science discipline. We are looking for enthusiastic candidates of all nationalities who have a keen interest in one of the research foci offered by our programs. Excellent written and spoken English skills are required.
Our programs
PhD Infection Biology: The program's objective is to investigate the complex interactions between host and pathogen as well as basic research with the combined tools of immunology, microbiology, virology, cell biology and molecular biology. For more information please see www.mh-hannover.de/zib.html.
PhD Molecular Medicine: The program aims to form a bridge between Science and the Clinic, in research as well as in teaching. We offer a wide variety of projects in the fields of Immunology, Infection, Haematology & Oncology, Biochemistry, Differentiation, Cell Biology, Genetics, and further medical departments. For more information please see www.mh-hannover.de/md-phd.html

.
PhD Regenerative Sciences: Research and teaching concentrate on Developmental Biology, Stem Cell Biology, Biology of Ageing and Degeneration, Growth Factors and Other Regenerative Agents, Cell Therapy, Tissue Engineering including Materials and Natural Sciences, and Ethical as well as Regulatory Implications. For more information please see www.rebirth-hannover.de.
Your application
Applications are invited from 1st December 2011 onwards through www.hbrs-application.de only. Please note that any other form of application will be disregarded. Applications close on 1st April 2012. For further information on the selection process, frequently asked questions, etc please see www.mh-hannover.de/hbrs.html.

Methoden:
various

Anfangsdatum: 1. Oktober 2012

geschätzte Dauer: 3 years

Bezahlung: Stipend or Salary

Homepage: http://htttp://www.hbrs-application.de

PhD con Quebrantahuesos

2011-12-13T16:05:00.002+01:00

Se busca candidato interesado en iniciar una tesis doctoral centrada en la
ecología del movimiento y el uso del espacio en el Quebrantahuesos dentro del

“Proyecto de reintroducción del Quebrantahuesos en Picos de Europa”

El objetivo principal de la tesis es estudiar de manera fina los movimientos
de los ejemplares de quebrantahuesos liberados en el proyecto de
reintroducción empleando para ello sistemas de seguimiento que incorporen GPS
(ARGOS/GPS ó GPS/GSM), y compararlos con los movimientos de jóvenes
quebrantahuesos criados por sus padres naturales en el Pirineo.

Más información sobre el proyecto de reintroducción se puede encontrar:

http://www.quebrantahuesos.org/picosdeeuropa/index.htm

Perfil preferido de los candidatos:

-Licenciados en Ciencias Biológicas o Ciencias Ambientales
-Buen expediente académico (mínimo de 2.0)
-Estar matriculado o haber acabado un Master de Doctorado en temas
relacionados
-Conocimientos de SIG y Teledetección
-Conocimientos de técnicas de marcaje y radioseguimento
-Experiencia previa en trabajo con aves rapaces
-Buen nivel de Inglés

El candidato debe tener un perfil adecuado para presentarse a las
convocatorias de becas públicas que se abrirán proximamente. Es conveniente
consultar la últims convocatorias y comprobar que se reunen los requisitos
necesarios: FPU (Formación de Profesorado Universitario,
https://sede.educacion.gob.es/catalogo-tramites/profesores/formacion/fpu.html
y http://www.boe.es/boe/dias/2011/01/24/pdfs/BOE-A-2011-1307.pdf ) y JAE
Predoc (Junta de Ampliación de Estudios,
https://sede.csic.gob.es/servicios/formacion-y-empleo/formacion-de-personal-investigador/2011/jae-predoc-2011).

Las personas interesadas deberán contactar previamente por correo electrónico
con Javier Bustamante jbustamante@ebd.csic.es enviando copia de su expediente
académico con indicación de nota la media (en el baremo de 1 a 4), curriculum
vitae y una carta en la que detallen las razones de su interés por el
proyecto.

Este documento se puede descargar en formato pdf:

https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B6-ZAxoyUieVZTY2YjUxNTItNTRlNC00ODQ1LTgxNDgtYTUxZGJjYTk2NWJl

--
Dr Javier Bustamante
Estación Biológica de Doñana, CSIC
Dept. Wetland Ecology
Américo Vespucio s/n
41092 - Sevilla
Spain

voice: +34 954 466700 ext. 1217
fax: +34 954 621125
e-mail: jbustamante@ebd.csic.es

http://www.ebd.csic.es/bustamante/index.html

-----other links-------
http://last-ebd.blogspot.com/
http://euroconbio.blogspot.com/

Research Assistant Required for Fieldwork in Cambodia, Feb-May 2012

2011-12-13T13:42:00.000+01:00

Distribution, population and habitat extent of Bengal Florican in Cambodia: A re-assessment after 7 years

- Angkor Centre for the Conservation of Biodiversity in collaboration with the Wildlife Conservation Society Cambodia Program, the Forestry Administration of Cambodia and the University of East Anglia (UK).

We are looking for an ecology/biology (or related discipline) graduate with ecological/ornithological fieldwork experience in tropical/developing countries to assist with field data collection in Cambodia.

The project involves conducting a national survey for the Critically Endangered Bengal florican (Houbaropsis bengalensis) to establish its current distribution and produce an up-to-date population estimate. The grasslands of Cambodia are thought to hold around two thirds of the global population and are therefore of great importance for the species, yet there has been no recent assessment of its distribution or numbers. The project will also assess remaining grassland habitat, which is undergoing rapid conversion and is important for 11 other globally threatened bird species.

A Research Assistant is needed from early February until early May 2012 (3 months) to join a team consisting of a Project Coordinator and four Field Assistants. This position would be an excellent opportunity for a graduate wishing to gain more experience in field data collection and research. Midday temperatures reach 40 degrees Celsius, walking and off-road motorbiking in the midday heat along with very early morning starts mean that this is not for the faint-hearted! The Research Assistant would need to cover the cost of their flight to/from Cambodia, but all accommodation and food during fieldwork will be paid for along with US $450/month salary.

If you wish to apply for this position, please submit your CV (including names and contact details of two referees) with a covering letter by 31st December to Charlotte Packman: c.packman@uea.ac.uk

For further information please contact me on: +44 (0)1603 59 1100

Curso "Conocer para Proteger"

2011-12-13T10:27:00.001+01:00

Hola a todos,

hemos sacado un nuevo curso, por lo que ahora mismo tenemos 2 con la inscripción abierta!

Este curso se titula: “Conocer para Proteger”, del 15 al 17 de Diciembre de 2011, en la Facultad de Ciencias de la Universidad de Granada.

El curso durará 25 horas.

   Están RECONOCIDOS 2 créditos de libre configuración para todas las titulaciones a extinguir de la Facultad de Ciencias.

   Hemos solicitado créditos de libre configuración para las titulaciones a extinguir de las siguientes Facultades: Ciencias de la Educación, y Filosofía y Letras. Si alguno estáis interesado en asistir al curso y no pertenecéis a ninguna de dichas facultades, escribidnos.

El precio del curso es de 25€, aunque, como la vez anterior, hacemos doble promoción! (puede quedaros en 15 euros..)

Podéis ver toda la información en la web: http://goo.gl/LbvCc  El programa es provisional.

Y recordaros que ya han reconocido entre 2 y 2,5 créditos en algunas Facultades para el curso "Enfermedades del Siglo XXI", podéis ver toda la información completa en: http://goo.gl/vIIaG Y si estáis interesados no lo dejéis pasar, puesto que que empieza el Lunes 12 de Diciembre..

Un saludo,

Antonio Fdez.

Yale University Faculty Position in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology

2011-12-12T14:08:00.000+01:00

The Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at Yale University invites applications for a tenure track faculty position at the junior level. We seek outstanding applicants working in any area of ecology and evolutionary biology and are particularly interested in applicants whose research has a strong focus in ecology. A record of outstanding achievement and a promising research program are more important than specific research area.

Application materials including a CV, three manuscripts or reprints, brief research and teaching statements and contact information for three evaluators should be submitted online at https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/Yale/EEB. The search will remain open until the position is filled. The review of applications will begin January 13, 2012.

Yale University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Yale values diversity among its students, staff, and faculty and strongly welcomes applications from women and underrepresented minorities.

PhD positions for animal ecologist and agricultural entomologist (m/f)

2011-12-12T14:06:00.002+01:00

Georg August University Göttingen
J.F. Blumenbach Institute of Zoology and Anthropology, Animal Ecology Group
Department of Crop Science, Agricultural Entomology

These positions are part of the integrated project LEGATO "Land-use intensity and ecological engineering – Assessment tools for risks and opportunities in irrigated rice based production systems" funded by the German Ministry of Science and Education (BMBF) and coordinated by the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research Halle (UFZ; http://www.ufz.de).

Rice based agricultural systems form the basis for human nutrition and dominate landscapes in large parts of Asia. Within the framework of LEGATO the structure of food webs of rice ecosystems are being investigated. By using novel tools such as stable isotope analysis one project aims at identifying interrelationships between aquatic and terrestrial components of rice agricultural systems. Another project will identify parasitoid food web structures in relation to landscape pattern and agronomic practices. The data of these projects will provide the basis for the development of agricultural landscapes employing biodiversity for improving ecosystem services. Focal countries will be the Philippines and Vietnam.

The applicants should hold a master or diploma in biology, ecology or related fields and should be enthusiastic and willing to work in Asian countries. Experience in entomology and food web research is advantageous.

Contract duration will be for 36 months. Salary will be according to the civil service level TVL 13-50%. Application assessment will start immediately and the advertisements remain open until the positions are filled.
Application and curriculum vitae should be written in English and sent by e-mail to Prof. Dr. Stefan Scheu, sscheu@gwdg.de, http://www.uni-goettingen.de/animal-ecology.html.

------------------------------

----------------------------------

Von:

Stefan Scheu
sscheu@gwdg.de
Georg August Universität Göttingen
Göttingen

Ansprechpartner: Stefan Scheu, sscheu@gwdg.de

8th Annual Ecology, Behavior, and Conservation of Manatees & Dolphins: A Unique Field Course in the Belize Barrier Reef Lagoon System

2011-12-12T14:05:00.003+01:00

Want to be a Conservation Biologist, Behavioral Ecologist or Marine Mammalogist? Here's your chance to join our research team for two intense weeks of total immersion into the world of animal behavior, ecology & conservation, Antillean manatees, bottlenose dolphins, coral reefs, mangroves and seagrass beds in Belize!

Website: http://www.sirenian.org/2012FieldCourse.html
Dates for 2012: Session I ~26 May - 8 June | Session II ~16 June - 29 June | Session III ~7 July - 20 July
Lead Instructor & Principal Investigator: Caryn Self-Sullivan, Ph.D., Nova Southeastern University, Sirenian International
Co-PI: Katie LaCommare, Ph.D., Lansing Community College

Course Overview: This is an experiential learning field course where you will live, work, and study from a marine science field station on a pristine, private island off the coast of Belize. Additionally, you will visit one or more Community Conservation Sites in Belize. Data collected during the course will contribute to our long-term manatee/dolphin research project. You will learn through a variety of learning activities, literature review and discussion, independent research projects, and actual field research. Be prepared to rise with the sun and spend 8-10 hours outdoors, including 3-4 hours on the water each day learning about the tropical Caribbean environment as we explore a maze of mangrove islands, seagrass beds, and coral patches searching for elusive manatees and charismatic dolphins.

Location: Spanish Bay Conservation & Research Center at Hugh Parkey's Belize Adventure Lodge, http://belizeadventurelodge.com/ and Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation & Development, http://sartenejaconservation.org/. Passport required, immunizations as recommended by CDC

Your Share of the Costs: US$2995 includes housing, meals, ground & water transfer fees, research & materials fees; DOES NOT include airfare, books, tips, and credit hours.

Optional Credit Hours: The course provides 100 experiential learning and lecture hours in the field, plus approximately 35 hours of pre-field reading, research, and preparation; at least 50 of the 135 total hours include direct instruction by faculty. This is comparable to a 3 credit hour university course and meets the US DOE criteria in 34 CFR, SS600.2. You must make arrangements IN ADVANCE with BOTH your advising faculty and Dr. Self-Sullivan for credit to be earned through your home university. Credit hour fees must be paid directly to your school and you must fulfill any study abroad requirements of your school. This course is divided into 4 major components: lectures and learning activities (~1 hour per day), independent reading and assignments (~2 hour per day), data collection in the field (~3 hours per day), project development & implementation (~2 hours per day), presentation of pre-field research (~1 hour per day), and debate/group discussion of reading materials (~1 hour per day).

Deadlines: Early registration & and deposit due February 1st, 2012; regular registration & deposit due March 1st, 2012; balance due at least 60 days prior to field dates. Late payments and late registrations (if space available) incur a $100 late fee.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Contact: Caryn Self-Sullivan, Ph.D. | cselfsullivan at sirenian dot org | +1.540.287.8207

Visit our Facebook Event Page: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=370432825564
Registration Form: http://sirenian.org/2012BelizeRegistration.pdf
Detailed Syllabus: http://sirenian.org/2012BelizeSyllabus.pdf
Policy & Liability Form: http://sirenian.org/2012BelizePolicy.pdf
Recruit a Friend: http://sirenian.org/2012BelizeFlyer.pdf
Field Course Expedition Briefing (14MB): http://sirenian.org/2012BelizeBriefing.pdf

Posted by:
Caryn Self-Sullivan, PhD, KPA CTP
President & Co-founder, Sirenian International, Inc.
Consultant: Animal Behavior & Wildlife Conservation
Email: cselfsullivan@sirenian.org
Phone: +1.540.287.8207
Website: http://sirenian.org
Blog: http://mermaidsandmermen.blogspot.com/

The mission of Sirenian International is to promote the long-term conservation of manatee and dugong populations around the world through research, education, and inter-cultural collaboration. Please remember us when budgeting for your charitable donations. Donate online at http://sirenian.org.

International Behavioural Ecology Congress (ISBE 2012)

2011-12-12T14:04:00.000+01:00

The registration to the International Behavioural Ecology Congress
(ISBE 2012), to be held in Lund 12-17 August 2012 is now open for
registration. Contributions (talks, posters) can now be sent in until
the deadline on March 15 2012 through this link:

http://www.isbe2012lund.org/registration/

There is also an opportunity to send in suggestions for so-called
"Post-conference symposia", around more or less well-defined topics
related to behavioural ecology and related fields, which will take place
after the ISBE, on August 2012, as an independent event. Deadline for
suggestions for post-conference symposia is January 31 2012, and more
information can be found here:

http://www.isbe2012lund.org/post-conference-symposia/

General questions regarding ISBE 2012, including ackomodation issues,
costs of registration, child care facilities etc. can be found on the
conference website:

http://www.isbe2012lund.org/

Sincerely,

Erik Svensson

Erik Svensson
Professor ( Evolutionary Ecology)
Department of Biology, Lund University
SE-223 62 Lund
SWEDEN

Phone: +46 46 222 38 19
Fax: +46 46 222 47 17
E-mail: erik.svensson@zooekol.lu.se

Webpage: http://www.lu.se/o.o.i.s/26007

Lab blog: http://svenssonresearchlaboratory.blogspot.com/

Researcher ID: http://www.researcherid.com/rid/E-8324-2010

PhD-student course on Fish behaviour

2011-12-12T14:02:00.001+01:00

The course is given by the University of Gothenburg, 5-9 March 2012 as a 5-day workshop at Kristineberg, Sven Lovén Centre for Marine Sciences, beautifully situated at the west coast of Sweden http://www.loven.gu.se/stationer /. In addition to the course leaders, 2-3 internationally recognized researchers in fish behaviour will participate as guest teachers. Full participation in the course gives 4 hp (credits).

Course Profile

The course is focused around the book Fish Behaviour (2008. Eds. C. Magnhagen, V. Braithwaite, E. Forsgren, and B. Kapoor. 648 pp. Science Publishers). For content, see www.zoologi.gu.se/utbildning/forskarutbildning/Kurser/fish_behaviour/Appendix_1/.

Application and further information

The deadline for application is 10 January 2012. For more detailed information about the course and how to apply, please see www.zoologi.gu.se/utbildning/forskarutbildning/Kurser/fish_behaviour/

Course leaders

Jörgen Johnsson (jorgen.johnsson@zool.gu.se) and Lotta Kvarnemo, lotta.kvarnemo@zool.gu.se

University of Gothenburg, Sweden http://www.zoologi.gu.se/forskning/Ekologisk+zoologi/

Welcome!

Jörgen Johnsson and Lotta Kvarnemo

Postdoc in Cancer

2011-12-08T14:57:00.001+01:00

A postdoc position is available at the Division of Tumor Cell Biology, University Hospital of Surgery Heidelberg.
The project is concerned with the role of CD44 variant isoform as a pancreatic cancer stem cell biomarker with a general emphasis on the contribution of cancer stem cell markers to stem cell biology. This includes the role of exosomal miRNA in the crosstalk with the host. We are searching for a cell biologist with basic knowledge in molecular biology and experience in animal work. The position is currently available for 15 months with a possibility of prolongation. The position is available immediately and we are interested in starting at earliest convenience which would facilitate handing over from the postdoc currently engaged in the project.
The department has great experience in the field of tumor metastasis, particularly with CD44 variant isoforms as metastasis promoting gene as well as with tetraspanins and their importance in exosomes. We are a dynamic, very friendly and helpful team, where it is easy to integrate also offering a chance to further improve your skills. Fluent English is required as it is the preferred language in the lab.

Please submit your application including CV, contact information of two references and a cover letter stating research and career interest. More detailed information can be found in NRC 9:49, 2009; 11:254, 2011 and on our website or contact:

Prof. Dr. med. Margot Zöller
University of Heidelberg
Department of Surgery
Division of Tumor Cell Biology
Im Neuenheimer Feld 365
69120 Heidelberg
Tel: +49 6221 56-5146
Fax: +49 6221 56-5199
e-mail: margot.zoeller@uni-heidelberg.de

PhD in the ecology of spatial behaviour

2011-12-02T11:56:00.001+01:00

The Evolutionary Ecology Group at the University of Antwerp
has a vacancy for two PhD-positions in the following project:
The role of exploration and experience in the development of spatial
behaviour: home ranges and dispersal in the Great Tit
Starting date: 1st March 2012
Application deadline: 3rd January 2012
Project description
This project is part of a larger research program on patterns and processes of
mobility and dispersal in animal populations. It is also closely linked to our longterm
studies on ecology and behaviour of great and blue tits in nest-box
populations. The general aim of this project is to test two general hypotheses on
spatial behaviour, using a combination of field data, behavioural experiments and
quantitative genetics:
(a) individuals build up spatial information in the course of their life which they use
in subsequent movement decisions, and this creates carry-over effects between life
stages; (b) individuals differ consistently in their use of spatial information, and
this explains part of the within-population variation in mobility patterns.
Briefly, we will collect detailed information on dispersal, exploration movements and
home-ranges of two full cohorts of great tits throughout their lifetime. This
information will be linked to a number of behavioural tests on exploration behaviour
in laboratory and semi-natural contexts, and to results of experiments manipulating
spatial behaviour. The project has funding for two PhD students who will work
closely together, but for their dissertation each will focus on different parts of the
project.
The first PhD project will focus on individual variation in behaviour. The student’s
main task will be to design and perform experiments in lab and field to study
exploration behaviour in different contexts, and relate this to lifetime spatial
behaviour of the same birds. In addition the student will devise experimental field
procedures aimed at manipulating spatial experience of birds.
The second PhD project will focus on the analysis of lifetime patterns of mobility,
with particular attention to the roles of heritable variation and prior experience. The
statistical analysis will involve both linear and discrete-choice models. This part of
the thesis will be partly co-supervised by Peter Goos of the Statistics Core Facility.
The student will also analyze pedigree data with Animal models to obtain
quantitative genetic estimates of heritable variation in traits associated with spatial
behaviours. Both students will participate in collecting field data on mobility as well
as routine population data.
Requirements
We are looking for enthusiastic and broad-minded candidates with a Master degree
in Biology, a specialization in behavioural ecology or evolutionary ecology, excellent
study grades, and a particular interest in studying processes that shape animal
movement patterns. For the first position we prefer a student with a particular
interest in experimental approaches for testing behavioural hypotheses, both in the
lab and the field. Affinity with studying birds, in captivity as well as in the field, is
an advantage for both positions. For the second position, preference goes to a
candidate with strong statistical skills and an interest in modelling complex data. An
additional degree in statistics is a particular advantage.
What we have to offer:
- We offer a PhD-scholarship for a maximum of four years (with a net salary of ca
1800 €/month) with the aim of defending a PhD-dissertation at the end of the
fourth year. After one year, the performance of the candidates will be evaluated
to decide whether the scholarship will be continued.
- You will enrol in the Antwerp Doctoral School training program
(www.ua.ac.be/ads) allowing you to take part in various courses, training
programs and conferences within and outside the University.
- You will work in a team of several PhD students, postdocs and technical staff
involved in the long-term great and blue tit study
- You will be member of the Evolutionary Ecology group, a dynamic and
internationally-oriented research group that combines field, lab and modelling
approaches to study various questions in ecology and evolutionary research,
mainly focusing on birds and mammals (www.ua.ac.be/eveco).
- Starting date is 1st March 2012
Application
Applicants should send their complete CV, a one-page statement of research
interests and motivation for this project, and contact information of two referees
who can supply letters of recommendation upon our request.
Please send applications by email before 3rd January 2012 to:
Erik Matthysen (erik.matthysen@ua.ac.be)
For more information please contact Erik Matthysen at the same address, or consult
our website.

Postdoc in the ecology and evolution of host-symbiont interactions at CSIRO Canberra.

2011-12-01T17:17:00.001+01:00

We invite applications for a three-year Post-Doctoral research position
to study mutualistic interactions between plants and soil symbionts.

This project will investigate the evolution of associations between plants
and soil mutualists (rhizobial bacteria and mycorrhizal fungi). These
interactions take place within potentially complex networks composing
a diverse array of potential partners and competitors. Characterizing
these complex networks and identifying the biotic and environmental
factors that determine how they are assembled is an important step
towards understanding how effective mutualisms between plants and soil
microbe evolve and persist. This work will utilize interactions between
native Australian legumes and their associated soil symbionts. These
systems provide an ideal model for testing hypotheses regarding how the
community composition and function of symbiotic organisms is shaped by
interactions with hosts, environmental heterogeneity (e.g. soil chemistry)
and spatial variation. The postdoctoral fellow will have access to a
recently developed and comprehensive host phylogeny (Acacia) to use as
a foundation to design a project investigating the role of evolutionary
history in structuring host symbiont interactions in an ecologically
important and widespread legume group.

Applicants must have, or will shortly obtain a PhD. Ideally, the
candidates PhD or other past research will be in evolutionary biology
or ecology. We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with deep
interests in community genetics and evolutionary ecology, as opposed to
someone with a specific laboratory skill set.

Interested individuals should apply for this position online at
http://csiro.nga.net.au/?jati=B46448DA-19BD-FE9C-C6F2-64DE1BDAF260. The
position includes generous remuneration and relocation allowances.

Informal inquiries regarding this position should be directed to Pete
Thrall (Peter.Thrall@csiro.au).

Luke.Barrett@csiro.au

U. Sherbrooke: Ph.D. on tree swallows

2011-12-01T17:16:00.001+01:00

I am looking for a Ph.D. student to explore the links between behaviour,
immunity and parasites in Tree swallow (Tachycineta bicolor). This research
is part of a long-term program in collaboration with Prof. Dany Garant at
the Université de Sherbrooke, Qc, Canada. Since 2004, more than 8000
individually marked tree swallows have been monitored on 400 nest boxes. The
Ph.D. candidate will have access to this long-term dataset and will also
participate to field work during two or three seasons (May to July) and
assist with capture, marking and measuring of the birds, as well as
collecting samples for hormone and DNA analyses.

Assets for this position include a M.Sc. degree, publications, a knowledge
of 'basic' French (or a strong willingness to learn it), fieldwork
experience, strong quantitative skills. A tax-free scholarship is available
for three years, and financing for travel, fieldwork and lab expenses has
been secured. The project could start either in May or September 2012.

For information on my research, see
http://pages.usherbrooke.ca/fpelletier/

Interested candidates should send a CV, a brief statement of research
interests and the e-mails of two referees before December 20th to Fanie
Pelletier: fanie.pelletier@usherbrooke.ca

Fanie Pelletier, Ph.D.

Professeure Agrégée
Université de Sherbrooke
Département de biologie
Faculté des Sciences
Sherbrooke (Québec)
CANADA J1K2R1

tel.: 819-821-8000 poste 61092
fax: 819 821-8049

fanie.pelletier@usherbrooke.ca

Gifted ones (I)

2011-11-30T16:24:00.001+01:00

El conseller de Agricultura i Medi Natural se vuelve a cubrir de gloria, consiguiendo esta tarde que un decreto ley (de esos que se promulgan en casos de "extraordinaria y urgente necesidad") permita en Cataluña la captura de fringílidos. Así, sin convocar siquiera una consulta previa o alegaciones, Cataluña "decide" ir en contra de la legislación europea vigente, retorciendo una directiva comunitaria de 2009 que acepta "excepciones, en condiciones estrictamente controladas y de manera selectiva, para la captura, retención o cualquier otra explotación prudente en pequeñas cantidades". 60.000 aves. Al final acabaremos como Chipre...
Con esta iniciativa, el amigo de los animales une otra perla ambiental a otros anteriores éxitos como la autorización de caza de jabalíes con arcos y flechas o cuando proclamó que la reserva marina de Cap de Creus es muy perjudicial.

Postdoc in Spain

2011-11-30T16:00:00.001+01:00

A three year postdoctoral fellowship is available to investigate the
adaptive variation, environmental gradients and demography in
Mediterranean conifers. The study organisms will be Pinus pinaster,
Pinus halepensis and Taxus baccata. For this project, we are combining
different approaches to investigate the evolutionary response of these
conifers to selection: demographic dynamics, patterns of adaption at the
phenotypic and molecular levels, and modeling of the climatic niche.
More specifically, the candidate will be involved in assessing the
patterns of adaptation at the phenotypic and molecular levels by
identifying functional genes responsible for variation in phenotypic
traits and geographical-climatic clines of adaptive variation.

The successful candidate will have experience with population genetics
and genomics, especially with sequences and SNPs analysis. The candidate
should hold a Ph.D. in genetics or evolutionary biology, have an
excellent academic and publication record, and be a fluent
speaker/writer in English. We seek an individual who is enthusiastic,
highly motivated, and willing to work independently as well as with a team.

This project is a collaboration between the Center of Forest Research
(CIFOR) at the National Institute of Research and Agrarian and Food
Technology (INIA) in Madrid (www.inia.es), and the Center for Ecological
Research and Forestry Applications (CREAF) at the Autonomous University
of Barcelona (www.creaf.uab.es), and the position will be jointly based
within these two Spanish research centers.

Closing date for application, January 15^th , 2012.

Applications (curriculum and cover letter, including a statement of
research interests and a brief overview of previous academic and
research experiences) as well as request for information should be sent
to: dgrivet@inia.es and Maria.Mayol@uab.es.

Lecturer, Wildlife Ecology

2011-11-30T15:59:00.001+01:00

Department of Environmental Science, Policy, & Management
University of California, Berkeley

The Department of Environmental Science, Policy, & Management at the
University of California, Berkeley seeks applications for a part-time
Lecturer to teach ESPM 114, Wildlife Ecology, during the Spring 2012
semester. The course lecturer delivers two hours of lecture each
week and oversees four GSIs who handle eight, one-hour discussion
sections per week. The lecturer also holds weekly office hours. This
position is scheduled to begin January 1, 2012 through May 31, 2012.

Course Description:
This course provides an introduction to wildlife ecology and includes
population, community, and ecosystem levels of organization.
Specifically, the course introduces students to basic concepts and
applications in physiological ecology, niche theory, population
dynamics, population estimation, metapopulation and community
ecology, trophic webs and a range of special topics including
invasive species, wildlife disease, landscape ecology and wildlife
policy. Students are evaluated on their performance on three
projects, three exams and their preparedness for discussion section.

Position requirements:
Candidate should have Ph.D. in ecology or related field with teaching
experience and strong professional references. The primary
responsibilities for this position include:

Delivering lectures
Planning and preparing lessons, including: researching and developing
new topics, courses and teaching materials and online resources,
developing materials for the student discussion, and developing
materials for discussion sections taught by GSIs
Supervising four to five graduate student instructors
Holding office hours
Developing exams and projects, and grading them (or supervising GSIs
in the marking)
Maintaining accurate records and monitoring students' progress, as
well as addressing any special student needs
Maintaining knowledge of, and implementing, college policies
Salary: Commensurate with qualifications and experience (starting
annual, full-time salary is $44,636)

Applicants should submit a letter of application, curriculum vitae,
statement on teaching philosophy and experience, along with the names
and contact information of three references to: http://
ecnr.berkeley.edu:80/sReg.php?i 2. The deadline for applications
is December 19, 2011.

This is a non-tenured, temporary position: the appointments to the
title of Lecturer are self-terminating (no further notice on non-
reappointment will be forthcoming) and do not create an obligation on
the part of the University either to extend or renew the appointment
outlined above. Any reappointment will be preceded by an assessment.
Employment is contingent upon proof of eligibility to work in the
United States.

The University of California is an equal opportunity affirmative
action employer, committed to excellence through diversity. The
College seeks candidates whose research, teaching, or service has
prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity and
inclusion in higher education.

Neil D. Tsutsui
Associate Professor
Vice Chair for Instruction
Department of Environmental Science, Policy & Management
University of California, Berkeley
Berkeley, CA 94720-3114

Mail:130 Mulford Hall, #3114
Office: 326 Hilgard Hall
Lab: 3 & 245 Hilgard Hall
Email: ntsutsui@berkeley.edu
Phone: 510-642-9012
Fax: 510-643-5438

Science is not a picnic

2011-11-29T09:30:00.001+01:00

2010. La Generalitat sube el precio de las tasas de doctorado un 280%

PREU DE LA MATRÍCULA
Direcció, tutela i avaluació continuada de la tesi doctoral
IMPORT 400,00 €
Serveis universitaris i altres depeses
Gestió d'expedient Acadèmic 64,00 €
TOTAL SERVEIS I ALTRES 64,00 €
PREU TOTAL DE LA MATRÍCULA 464,00 €

Por comparar, que está feo, pero a veces da perspectiva:
Precio de la tutela en Cádiz: 55€

2011. Parece que me voy a "ahorrar" 19 euros...

PREU DE LA MATRÍCULA
Direcció, tutela i avaluació continuada de la tesi doctoral
IMPORT 381,00 €

Ah, no... que hay cosas nuevas!

Serveis universitaris i altres depeses
Ser.espec.suport aprenentatge 70,00 €
Gestió d'expedient Acadèmic 66,30 €
TOTAL SERVEIS I ALTRES 136,30 €

Esto parece que ya ocurrió en la UAB.

PREU TOTAL DE LA MATRÍCULA 517,30 €

- Pero... si yo tengo beca...

- Lo siento, desde el curso 2009/10 las becas que no están adscritas a la UB no tienen matrícula gratuita.

Luego lee uno el periódico y se pregunta por qué demonios trata de hacer carrera en ciencia, cuando podría medrar en el floreciente gremio de los políticos:

http://www.elpais.com/articulo/cataluna/Once/cargos/embolsan/333000/euros/dietas/Area/Metropolitana/elpepiespcat/20111128elpcat_4/Tes

http://politica.elpais.com/politica/2011/11/27/actualidad/1322420989_359972.html
http://politica.elpais.com/politica/2011/11/27/actualidad/1322416820_502465.html

PhD position in Evolutionary Biology / Behavioural Ecology

2011-11-27T10:41:00.001+01:00

Fully funded PhD studentship starting October 2012

Sibling competition and indirect genetic effects: a systems-genetics analysis

Indirect genetic effects occur when genes expressed in other individuals
affect the phenotype of a focal individual. These effects are particularly
important in sibling interactions and competition over maternal resources
but to date we know very little about how genetic variation in socially
interacting individuals affects fitness of a focal individual. To this end
we are conducting a large experiment in genetically fully characterized
mice collecting life history and behavioural phenotypes.

This is a largely computational project during which you will develop
systems-genetics approaches to establish networks of lower-order
phenotypes (e.g. physiological traits) and their underlying candidate
genes that together affect complex life history and behavioural phenotypes
in socially interacting individuals. Using DNA seq and gene expression
data derived from the largest genetic reference system in mammals,
BXD mice, you will be analyzing complex life history and behavioural
phenotypes to identify candidate genes, pleiotropic gene effects through
correlational analyses, and networks of functionally linked traits and
their underlying genetic variants. The aim is to build up networks of
genes, their effects and links to lower order phenotypes and how these
relate to variation seen in complex life history and behavioural traits.

Successful candidates are encouraged to develop their own research ideas
in conjunction with ongoing research in evolutionary biology. There is
also the opportunity to contribute to teaching on field courses in Africa,
South and Central America.

Further Information
This studentship is open to all nationalities although no funding
is available to cover the higher tuition fees for non-EU applicants
and EU applicants from outside in the UK must have been resident
in the UK for purposes other than education for 3 or more years
to qualify for the living expenses stipend. Applicants should
have an excellent undergraduate record and ideally some research
experience. Further information can be obtained by contacting Reinmar
Hager reinmar.hager@manchester.ac.uk

How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online and accompanied
by a number of supporting documents as soon as
possible or contact jessica.bowler@manchester.ac.uk
http://www.ls.manchester.ac.uk/phdprogramme

Reinmar Hager <Reinmar.Hager@manchester.ac.uk>

2 PhD POSITIONS IN BEHAVIOURAL ECOLOGY

2011-11-27T10:40:00.001+01:00

Institute of Ecology and Evolution, University of Bern, Switzerland

1) PhD 'GENETIC BASIS OF COOPERATION': The aim of this PhD-project is to investigate the genetic basis of cooperative behaviour in highly social African cichlids. These fish have turned into a model species for studies of social evolution based on detailed information about their ecology and behaviour, excellent possibilities for behavioural and physiological experiments and recent sequencing of their full genome. We shall pursue a dual approach: (1) a quantitative genetics study employing a large-scale breeding experiment and (2) an ecological genomics approach using molecular biology tools. The project will involve intensive behavioural observations, quantitative genetics modeling and lab work for brain gene expression analyses. Eligible candidates will have a master’s degree (or Diplom) in Biology and research experience in animal behaviour, a genuine understanding of evolutionary theory and a strong commitment to basic science. Practical skills in molecular and/or quantitative genetics techniques and in empirical work with fish are beneficial, but not a precondition. The project will be mostly based in Bern, but will involve collaboration with two co-supervisors, Nadia Aubin-Horth (University Laval, Canada) and Mathias Kölliker (University of Basel, Switzerland). The position is part of the Doctoral Research Program ("ProDoc") funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation SNF on “Proximate and ultimate causes of cooperation” and will connect up to 30 PhD students working on animal cooperation by a research network. Supervisor of this project: Barbara Taborsky.

2) PhD 'ALTERNATIVE REPRODUCTIVE TACTICS': The aim of this PhD-project is to study the adaptive responses to mating competition of conspecifics pursuing alternative reproductive tactics (ARTs) that are either fixed for life or dependent on condition. Evolutionary theory predicts that negative frequency dependence will select for tactic frequencies generating equal lifetime fitnesses when ARTs reflect genetic morphs. In contrast, when ARTs are purely conditional they may yield different fitness pay-offs. African cichlids showing both types of ARTs will serve as experimental model for this study. It will involve competitive in vitro fertilization experiments, behavioural and environmental manipulations, and – depending on focus – field work on Lake Tanganyika and/or research on physiological control mechanisms. Eligible candidates will have a master’s degree (or Diplom) in Biology and research experience in animal behaviour, a genuine understanding of evolutionary theory and a strong commitment to basic science. Practical skills in behavioural observation, multivariate statistics, physiological techniques, empirical work with fish and scientific publication (e.g. of the master’s thesis) will be helpful, but are not a precondition. Supervisor of this project: Michael Taborsky.

Both positions are for three years and should preferably start in early 2012.

The successful candidates will join a bustling research environment consisting of ca. 15 PhD-students and advanced research staff, five technicians and a varying number of master’s students and guest scientists. Besides this Behavioural Ecology group, the Institute of Ecology and Evolution at the University of Bern comprises research groups in Aquatic Ecology (Ole Seehausen), Community Ecology (Wolfgang Nentwig), Conservation Biology (Raphael Arlettaz), Evolutionary Ecology (Heinz Richner) and Population Genetics (Laurent Excoffier). Salaries will follow the schemes of the national funding organization of Switzerland.

Closing date: Open until filled, but all application materials, including CV, a summary of research experience, copies of any published or in-press papers, and two letters of recommendation should be received by22 December 2011 to ensure full consideration. Candidates should indicate in a cover letter for which position they apply and when they could take it up. Please send all application material to the secretary’s office, c/o Marlis Gerteis, Dept. Behavioural Ecology, University of Bern, Wohlenstrasse 50A, CH-3032 Bern, Switzerland; or as e-mail attachments tomarlis.gerteis@iee.unibe.ch. Please consult our web-page for information on our research:http://behav.zoology.unibe.ch/ For inquiries please contactbarbara.taborsky@iee.unibe.ch (position 1) ormichael.taborsky@iee.unibe.ch (position 2).
************************************************************************************************
End of announcement

*********************************************

PD Dr. Barbara Taborsky

Institute for Ecology and Evolution

Behavioural Ecology

University of Bern

Wohlenstrasse 50A,

CH-3032 Hinterkappelen,Switzerland

Tel: +41 31 6319 157, Fax: +41 31 6319 141

http://behav.zoology.unibe.ch/index.php?pp=57&p=124

Postdoc in molecular cell biology / systems biology (M/F)

2011-11-24T13:57:00.001+01:00

The University of Luxembourg is a multilingual, international research University.

The University of Luxembourg is looking within the Systems Biology group at the Life Sciences Research Unit (LSRU) of its Faculty of Science, Technology and Communication for a :

Postdoc in molecular cell biology / systems biology (M/F)

The University of Luxembourg offers the opportunity to apply for a post- doc research grant in Luxembourg. The grant is directly tied to the candidate. The candidate has to apply for the grant personally. In case of an accepted application, the position will be financed by the Luxemburgish AFR (Aide Formation Recherche) fellowship( further information and guidelines on http://www.afr.lu en/AFR-Grants-Activities/AFR-

PhD-and-Postdoc-Grants)
• 2-year fixed term contract, beginning July 1st, 2012 at the earliest
• Employee status

The research of the Systems Biology group (Prof. Thomas Sauter) is focused in the area of molecular systems biology. We are developing and applying different modelling and data integration techniques to generate suitable computational models of biological systems and processes. We are also performing experimental validation of the models using cell cultivation facilities and molecular analytics. The analysis of these models helps to gain insight into dynamic and stationary properties of the investigated. These integrated approaches provide a more complete understanding of cellular and molecular responses observed during diseases and may lead to new therapeutic targets.

The hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) is a myeloproliferative disorder marked by a sustained overproduction of eosinophils. It can be linked to the occurrence of the oncogenic fusion protein FIP1L1-PDGFRá in patient cohorts. Detection of this fusion gene detection has proven to be useful for clinical diagnosis. But to date, only preliminary biomarkers for HES have been suggested. Based on a well established set of wildtype and disease specific PDGFRá variants, we will therefore generate FIP1L1-PDGFRá specific data sets on the proteomic, transcriptomic and metabolomic level. The analysis will focus on the PDGFRá wildtype, the treatment-sensitive FIP1L1-PDGFRá, the therapy-resistant FIP1L1-PDGFRá D842V-mutant and a rich panel of YF-mutants with specific knockdowns of downstream signalling pathways. We will use this data to increase our understanding of the molecular effects of the oncogenic FIP1L1-PDGFRá and to screen for putative perturbation sensitive targets and disease bio!
markers for HES. A close interaction with a computational biologist performing mathematical model based network curation and target identification is required. Selected promising sensitive network points as well as oncongenic mechanisms of selected potential biomarkers will be validated and followed up experimentally.

Profile

• PhD in Biology/Biochemistry or equivalent.

• Experience in cell biology, proteomics, transcriptomics and / or metabolomics required.
• Good knowledge in English
• Additional French and/or German would be ideal

The University of Luxembourg is an equal opportunity employer.

Please send your motivation letter, CV, scanned diplomas and references files until January 8th, 2012 to:
Prof. Thomas Sauter (thomas.sauter@uni.lu)
Thank you for quoting job reference source, when applying.
The selected candidate will apply for the PhD grant scheme from the FNR (Fonds National de la Recherche) and the position will be filled under the condition that the grant is provided.

----------------------------------------------------------------
Delporte
beatrice.delporte@uni.lu
University of Luxembourg
Luxembourg

Ansprechpartner: Delporte

9 PhD student fellowships in bio-geo-interactions in GRK1257 (Jena, Germany) (Jena)

2011-11-24T13:56:00.001+01:00

Since the research subject of microbial impact on weathering, reactive transport and remineralization is strictly interdisciplinary, the faculty comprises three geological, one mineralogical, two soil science, one chemical and two microbiological expert groups. With this research profile, a PhD program is established that is characterized by its scientific excellence and strong international context and that will stimulate interaction between students coming from different scientific disciplines.
Applicants for the scholarships have to show that they are among the 5% top graduates of their bachelor year, applicants of the PhD student fellowships should have an excellent diploma or MSc (more than 80%) in the field of biology, geology, chemistry or comparable certification.

Vacant PhD projects:

•Bioconversion of mobile organo-mineral geosorbents: microbial effects on reactivity and mobility (Prof. Totsche)

•Linking iron cycling to the stabilization and spatial distribution of soil organic matter (Prof. Trumbore)

•Microbial formation of heavy metal containing secondary minerals (Prof. Küsel)

•Microbial influence on sorption of heavy metals to Fe-, Mn-, Al-(oxi)hydroxides (Prof. Buechel)

•Investigation of the microbial impact on the alteration and degradation of clay minerals (Prof. Gaupp)

•Mineral transformation and biomineralization with stibnite and tetrahedrite (Prof. Majzlan)

•Investigation of the microbial mineralization process by means of spectroscopical methods (Prof. Popp)

•Biomolecular mechanisms of Corg mobilization (Prof. Kothe)

•Understanding the mechanisms of organic matter degradation from black pelites (Prof. Gleixner)

Further information you find at http://www.gk-alteration.uni-jena.de link Recruitment/Applications. Send your electronical application including the application form to katrin.krause@uni-jena.de, deadline except for postdoctoral fellow 15 January 2012.

------------------------------

----------------------------------

Von:

Dr. Katrin Krause
Katrin.Krause@uni-jena.de
Friedrich-Schiller-Universität
Jena

Ansprechpartner: Dr. Katrin Krause, Katrin.Krause@uni-jena.de

----------------------------------------------------------------

Postdoc in Greece

2011-11-23T09:25:00.001+01:00

Project - “Biodiversity on oceanic islands: towards a unified theory”
(2012-2015. (PTDC/BIA-BIC/119255/2010)*

Creative and motivated candidates are invited to apply for a three-year
Postdoctoral Scientist position, at the Azorean Biodiversity Group,
University of Azores for participation in a collaborative project
supervised by Paulo A. V. Borges and Kostas Triantis (University of
Azores), in collaboration with Luis António Borda Água (CBAUniversity of
Lisbon), Aris Parmakelis (University of Athens) and Robert Whittaker
(Biodiversity Research Group, Oxford University Centre for the Environment).

This project aims at developing conceptual models mathematically
describing the dynamics of diversity on oceanic islands. The main
objective of the project is a unifying theory of island biodiversity,
based on the recently proposed General dynamic model of oceanic island
biogeography (Whittaker et al., 2008), which will require: a) the
development of analytically tractable mathematical models, b) the
analysis of extensive empirical (molecular and biogeographical) data to
assess the validity of the models, and c) taking into account that
biodiversity itself is multi-faceted, and thus biodiversity theories
should incorporate multiple diversity metrics.

Candidates should hold a Ph.D. in a pertinent field. Previous
post-doctoral experience is not mandatory but will be considered a plus.
The ideal candidate would have excellent skills in ecological
mathematics, handling of large data sets, stochastic/mechanistic and/or
prognostic modelling and experience of combining molecular and
ecological data.

Salary will be 1495€/month.

Please send a CV, a brief statement of research interests, and the names
and contact information for two references to Paulo Borges,
pborges@uac.pt and Kostas Triantis (island.biogeography@gmail.com)

Review of applications will begin on March 1 2012 and will continue
until the position is filled. The project is expected to begin in August
2012.

--
******************************

**********************
ARIS PARMAKELIS, MSc., PhD.
Biology Building
Department of Ecology and Taxonomy (Room 41)
University of Athens
Panepistimioupoli Zografou
GR-15784, ATHENS, GREECE
Tel.: ++302107274736
aparmakel@biol.uoa.gr
parmakel@nhmc.uoc.gr
parmakel@edu.biology.uoc.gr
http://uaeco.biol.uoa.gr/uameco
http://publicationslist.org/aparmakel

Tenure track position in Behavioural Ecology

2011-11-22T10:54:00.001+01:00

Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University, The Netherlands

The newly established chair group in Behavioural Ecology at Wageningen
University offers a position as Assistant Professor in the field of
Behavioural Ecology (vacancy number ASG-DW-ADP-0001). The candidate will
be responsible for the organisation, implementation and coordination
of new research activities in this field, as well as building up a
leading international position. Your research should focus on vertebrate
behavioural ecology. You will be involved in teaching at undergraduate
and graduate level, supervise PhD and Masters students and you will
be expected to obtain external research funding and to publish in
international (refereed) journals. We offer a stimulating and friendly
working environment where you are expected to contribute to increasing
our understanding of animal populations. Training and coaching is provided
to accomplish all this.

As Assistant Professor you are an ambitious and enthusiastic scientist
and a team player, devoted to research and education in the field
of behavioural ecology. Preference will be given to candidates with
experimental approaches using birds in the natural habitat as model
systems but applications form a broader field will be considered.

The Behavioural Ecology chair group of the Animal Science Department
Wageningen University is a newly established enthusiastic and ambitious
group which combines expertise in animal behaviour, animal welfare
and behavioural ecology. The group will be formally established on 1st
December 2011. The research of the group will focus on vertebrates ranging
from farm animals to animals in their natural habitat. The chair group in
Behavioural Ecology will have a focus on social behaviour using birds as
a model species covering topics including social networks, communication,
foraging and cognition but applications from also a broader range of
topics will be considered. We encourage applications from individuals
with a broad range of interests, but will give priority to candidates
with research interests and experience in ecological and evolutionary
approaches to study behaviour in the natural habitat.

Wageningen University offers you as talented scientist a challenging
new career trajectory called Tenure Track. We have the ambition to
attract top scientific talent and to stimulate their development. From
the position of Assistant Professor you can grow into the position of a
Professor holding a personal chair. We are looking for high potentials
who can excel in education and research. We offer you a temporary
contract for 38 hours per week, which can lead to a permanent employment
contract. A part-time position of 0.8 Fte is negotiable. The monthly
salary depends on your work experience and expertise. Gross salary from
¤ 3195 to max. ¤ 4374 as Assistant Professor and based on full time
employment. The career path consists of a number of successive career
steps, from Assistant Professor, to Associate Professor to Professor
holding a Personal Chair. Excellent performance and seniority can be
rewarded with an appointment as Associate Professor.

Additional information about the vacancy can be obtained from:
The chair of the Behavioural Ecology group, Prof. dr. Marc Naguib,

Telephone number: 0031 (0)317- -473442; after 1st December 0031-(0)317 483860

E-mail address: m.naguib@nioo.knaw.nl

Application
You can apply till 15 December 2011. Interviews will take place in
early January

Go to the website below for more detailed information and to apply for
the position http://www.wur.nl/UK/work/Vacancies+New

To access the advertisement use the link above and enter the vacancy
number ASG-DW-ADP-0001 into the "vacancy field". Then follow the further
links. Contact Marc Naguib at m.naguib@nioo.knaw for or any questions
regarding the position or the application procedure.

Prof. Dr. Marc Naguib
Department of Animal Ecology
Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW)
Wageningen,The Netherlands, Phone +31-317-473442
m.naguib@nioo.knaw.nl; http://www.nioo.knaw.nl/users/mnaguib/
<http://www.nioo.knaw.nl/en/node/1061>

note my new address from 1.12.2011
Behavioural Ecology Group, Department of Animal Sciences
Wageningen University, De Elst 1, Building number 122
6708 WD Wageningen, The Netherlands
"Naguib, Marc" <M.Naguib@nioo.knaw.nl>

Curso “Enfermedades del Siglo XXI”

2011-11-19T17:16:00.001+01:00

Hola a todos,

tenemos un nuevo curso, esta vez organizado para los Alumnos de 5º de Biología y de Bioquímica de la Universidad de Granada:

“Enfermedades del Siglo XXI”, del 12 al 16 de Diciembre de 2011 de Lunes a Viernes, en la Facultad de Ciencias de la Universidad de Granada en horario de tarde:

El curso durará 30 horas, donde se tratarán las principales investigaciones sobre enfermedades que se están llevando a cabo en la actualidad.

Se han solicitado créditos de libre configuración para casi todas las titulaciones de la Universidad de Granada.

El precio del curso es de 30€

Toda la información, así como el programa detallado del curso podéis verlo en: http://goo.gl/vIIaG

Podéis ver también todas las novedades al instante en el perfil que hemos creado en Twitter: https://twitter.com/CursoEnfermSXXI

Cualquier duda, escribidnos un email a evagaresp@gmail.com.

Por otro lado, estamos colaborando con la Asociación Sectorial de Alumnos de Biología, S.A.B.-Granada en su próximo curso: "Nuevas Fronteras de la Genética" que será del 23 de Noviembre al 1 de Diciembre, por lo que quedan pocos días para inscribirse.

Toda la información del curso la tenéis en: http://www.ugr.es/~sabia/actividades/evento1/

Para aquellos que hicisteis el curso Básico de Biodiversidad, os informo que en cuanto tengamos los diplomas os avisaremos.

Un saludo,

Antonio Fdez.

Curso "Meta-análisis en ecología". I Edición.

2011-11-16T12:17:00.001+01:00

(A través del Iecolab)

Inicio: 16/01/2012

Fin: 20/01/2012

El objetivo de este curso es presentar de manera detallada los principales métodos del meta-análisis. Estos métodos son adecuados para realizar síntesis cuantitativas de múltiples estudios que fueron diseñados para testar una determinada hipótesis (ej. ¿existe relación entre diversidad y productividad?) y de cierta forma, son frecuentemente superiores a las revisiones narrativas. El curso será impartido por D. Luis Mauricio Bini, Profesor titular. Universidade de Goiás (Brasil).El curso está dirigido a estudiantes de postgrado, profesores, investigadores y profesionales relacionados con el mundo de la gestión y la investigación, interesados en aprender métodos que les permitan realizar síntesis cuantitativas de múltiples estudios con objeto de testar una hipótesis determinada. El curso tendrá un eminente enfoque práctico centrado en la inferencia de datos bióticos y ambientales. Se abordarán los siguientes temas:

Introducción al meta-análisis
¿Cómo hacer un meta-análisis?
Combinación de resultados independientes
Estimación del tamaño del efecto
Efectos fijos y aleatorios
Homogeneidad del tamaño del efecto. Combinación de coeficientes de correlación y meta-regresión
Problemas y críticas (ejemplos de meta-análisis en ecología y ciencias ambientales. Uso de los programas Excel, MetaWin y Metafor)

Tiene una duración de 30 horas y un coste de 275 €. Más información sobre plazos y condiciones de matrícula en la web de la Fundación Universidad de Granada

Postdoc with ants in California

2011-11-16T12:01:00.001+01:00

Post-doc position in the spatial genetics and ecology of acacia-ants in Kenya
The Stanton and Grosberg labs, Department of Evolution and Ecology,
University of California Davis

We are seeking a highly motivated post-doc with expertise in spatial
genetic analysis, an interest in using genetics to inform field
experiments and surveys, and the ability to work up to 4 months per year
at one of Africa's most spectacular field research centers.

Over the past twelve years, our team of colleagues at the Mpala Research
Centre in Kenya has probed deeply into the ecological dynamics of a
multi-species mutualism in which four species of acacia-ants associate
with a single, dominant acacia, A. drepanolobium in highland savannas
around East Africa. The relative ease with which field manipulations
can be conducted in this system, in concert with its amazingly rich
natural history, has resulted in a number of high-profile publications,
and new insights into the dynamics of competition and coexistence among
the symbiont ant species, the role of mega-herbivores in maintaining
the mutualism, and the non-additive fitness consequences for long-lived
host trees that associate with multiple species over their lifetime. For
links to recent papers and some of the work in progress, please refer
to the beautiful website of our pal and collaborator extraordinaire,
Todd Palmer (http://web.mac.com/toadpalmer/Site/welcome.html).

The new post-doc will lead a relatively new research effort, in which we
are focusing on three congeneric acacia-ant species that coexist at very
fine spatial scales around the Mpala area Crematogaster sjostedti,
C. mimosae, and C. nigriceps. These species vary dramatically in
ecology, life-history and apparent colony dynamics. Large, multi-queen,
multi-tree colonies of C. sjostedti dominate in competition for host
trees over smaller (sometimes multi-queen) colonies of C. mimosae,
which in turn can competitively displace the single-queen colonies of
C. nigriceps. The focus of our current project is to determine what role
spatial patterns of within-colony and between-colony genetic variation may
play in colony success in competition for food sources and host trees,
colony establishment, the balance between intra- versus inter-specific
competition, and on the ability of these intensely competing species to
coexist system. Multiple microsatellite loci have been developed in two
of the three species thus far, and patterns of variation at these loci
identify colony structures that correspond closely with those obtained
from field aggression assays.

So, if you are, like us, someone who is driven to solve mysteries, here
is just a small sample of observations we've made and questions we hope
to address in this work.

*Bigger colonies have a competitive advantage, but attaining large
colony size requires multiple queens. To what extent are large colonies
less genetically integrated than single-queen colonies? Does polygyny
pre-dispose a colony to reduced cooperation or fragmentation? If not,
how is colony integrity and cooperation maintained?

** Colonies of the different species are spatially aggregated that is,
conspecific colonies are more often near neighbors than expected by
chance. To what extent are conspecific neighbors also related to one
another? How do genetically related neighboring colonies arise?

** Do neighboring colonies of the same species compete as often and as
intensively as heterospecific neighbors? To what extent are levels of
intraspecific, inter-colony aggression determined by genetic relatedness?

Here are the attributes we are seeking in the person who will fill
this position. 1) Strong skills in writing and in transforming data
into manuscripts and research proposals. 2) Experience in development
of microsatellites and in analysis of microsats or other hyper-variable
genetic markers using multiple software packages. 3) Experience in the
design and execution of large-scale field experiments. 4) Good mentoring
and organizational skills, with an ability to organize and supervise
lab groups and research teams. 5) High levels of responsibility and
self-motivation for independent work. 6) Experience with mapping and
spatial analysis in GIS. 7) Experience and interest in ant or other
haplodiploid social insects is a plus, but not essential.

UC Davis is an extraordinarily stimulating and fertile environment for
post-doctoral work in all aspects of evolutionary ecology. While on
campus, the post-doc will have office and lab space in Storer Hall,
home to both the Department of Ecology and the Center for Population
Biology. We anticipate that the post-doc will make two trips per
year to the Mpala Research Centre in Kenya, which hosts a stimulating
international community of biologists and ecosystem scientists. This
post-doc position is renewable for up to three years. Full-time salary
will range from $38,500 to $45,000, depending on years of experience.

Please send inquiries or applications to Maureen Stanton at
mlstanton@ucdavis.edu by December 7. Applications should include a
cover letter describing your interests in (and qualifications for) this
position, an up-to-date c.v., and the names, email addresses and phone
numbers of 3 references.

Maureen Stanton
Professor
Department of Evolution and Ecology
One Shields Avenue
University of California Davis
Davis, CA 95616
phone: 530-752-1272
fax: 530-752-1449

maustanton@gmail.com

Helmholtz International Graduate School for Infection Research, a three-year PhD program

2011-11-16T11:57:00.001+01:00

We invite highly motivated applicants
PhD students will have the unique opportunity to undertake a PhD within an electrifying atmosphere with the focus on Infection Research and related fields (Immunology, Microbiology, Virology, Cell Biology, Chemical Biology, Medical Chemistry, Structural Biology, Systems Immunology, Molecular Biology, Mammalian Genetics). As well as working on a three-year research project PhD students can select lectures and seminars, laboratory and soft-skills courses, congresses, symposia and summer schools. The program is well supported by a network of PhD students and supervisors. PhD students will finish the program as highly qualified scientists competitive for the job market. The three-year program is taught in English.
For information about the program please visit the following web site:
www.hzigradschool.de

We expect
- A Master´s degree (or equivalent)
- Applicants who have an active interest in one or more of the above fields
- Written and spoken English skills and previous laboratory experience

Application
- Applicants are required to complete the online application form under: https://online-application.helmholtz-hzi.de

Deadline for Application
January 15th, 2012

Anfangsdatum: 1. Oktober 2012

geschätzte Dauer: 3 years

Bezahlung: approx. 1300 € - 1500 € per month

Homepage: http://www.hzigradschool.de

Since the Helmholtz Graduate School supports a gender balance, women are explicitly encouraged to apply. Further information on the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research is to be found under: www.helmholtz-hzi.de. The Helmholtz International Graduate School is supported by the Helmholtz Association of German Research Centres.

The Helmholtz International Graduate School is a joint action of the institutes/universities:
- Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig (HZI)
- Technical University of Braunschweig (TU-BS)
- Hannover Medical School (MHH)
- University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation (TiHo)

Graduate Position: UOregon. Evolutionary Biology

2011-11-11T12:12:00.001+01:00

Applications are now being accepted for integrative graduate education in
Ecology, Evolution, Development, and Genomics at the University of Oregon
(UO).

The Department of Biology and the Institute of Ecology and Evolution (IEE)
at the University of Oregon seek outstanding applicants for the PhD
program. We are looking for highly motivated students who wish to develop
high-caliber research programs in any area of ecology and evolutionary
biology.

IEE consists of a dynamic, energetic, and highly interactive group of
faculty members, graduate students, and postdocs whose research interests
are world-renowned and span traditional disciplines. Particular strengths
of the group include molecular evolution, evolutionary genetics and
genomics, evolution of development, and microbial, population, community,
and ecosystems ecology. IEE maintains close ties with other research
institutes and departments on campus, including the Institutes of Molecular
Biology and Neuroscience, the Oregon Institute of Marine Biology, and the
Departments of Chemistry, Geography, Computer Science, Geology, and
Landscape Architecture. Our integrative approach to research and graduate
education is supported by numerous grants, training grants, and fellowships
from both federal and privately-funded sources.

The University of Oregon is located in the heart of Eugene, a progressive
and very livable city of approximately 200,000 people. Eugene provides many
opportunities for intellectual and cultural stimulation, and its location
is ideal for the naturalist at heart being within an easy 1-2 hour drive of
both the Cascade Mountains and the Oregon Coast. It is consistently voted
one of the top ten greenest cities in the U.S.

For more information about IEE (formerly known as the Center for Ecology
and Evolutionary Biology) and individual faculty research interests, please
see the IEE website (http://ie2.uoregon.edu) as well as individual lab
websites. For information about graduate studies in the Department of
Biology, or to submit an online application, please see:
http://biology.uoregon.edu/graduate/apply.php/ . The deadline for online
applications is December 15, 2011. For specific inquiries about IEE, please
contact Matt Streisfeld (mstreis@uoregon.edu).

mstreis@gmail.com

SHOREBIRDS FIELD ASSISTANT

2011-11-11T12:11:00.001+01:00

Volunteers field assistant are needed *from 10 March to 15 May 2012* for an
ongoing capture-recapture program on the Ruffs, *Philomachus pugnax. *The
project is under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Theunis Piersma, head of the
Animal Ecology Group of the University of Groningen. Our current research
aims to better understand demographic and ecological processes playing a
role in the ongoing decline of the Ruff population using the Netherlands
during migratory stopovers. The fieldwork consists in the monitoring of
colour-banded birds in Southwest Friesland, a characteristic Dutch meadow
area in the north of The Netherlands. We collect data on the timing of
migration, habitat use, phenotype characteristics, feeding and reproductive
behaviour of the birds; but you will also assist with the banding of the
birds, blood sampling, and data entry. Volunteers and students involved
will live together in our field station in a small village along the shore
of Lake IJsselmeer.

We are seeking highly motivated people, happy to spend long days in the
field, social and able to work in a team. In the same time, interested
applicants should be independent, well organized and able to maintain a
professional attitude. Good observation skills, experience with handling
birds and colour-ring reading is definitely a plus. Commitment for the all
study period and a driver license are required but command of Dutch or
Frisian is not necessary ;-) Applicants willing to improve their spoken
English are encouraged to apply (this is an excellent opportunity to
improve!). But note that a good understanding is needed.

We provide housing and field equipment. Volunteers must pay own airfare and
food expenses (3-4 Euros per day). A refund of flight cost might be
possible (depending on pending grant applications).

*To apply*: Please send a resume/CV (keep it to relevant details), a cover
letter (interests, career goals, relevant experience for the position and
availability) and at least one reference.**

We will begin reviewing applications from 1th January 2012 and continue
until position is filled.

*Contact: *
*Lucie SCHMALTZ *
PhD Student
Animal Ecology Group
Centre for Life Sciences
Nijenborgh 7
9747 AG GRONINGEN
Email: L.Schmaltz@rug.nl
Office : +31 50 363 2091
For further info see:
http://www.rug.nl/biologie/onderzoek/onderzoekgroepen/dieroecologie/onderzoek/researchstudies/
Lucie SCHMALTZ <lucie.schmaltz@gmail.com>

Field Assistant/Research volunteer

2011-11-09T18:13:00.002+01:00

Inkawu Vervet Project, South Africa

Within the framework of a large collaborative project between the
universities of Neuchatel (Dr. R. Bshary), Zurich (Drs. C.P. van Schaik
& M. Krützen) and St. Andrews (Dr. A. Whiten) on the evolution of social
behaviour in vervet monkeys (/Cercopithecus aethiops/), the Inkawu
Vervet Project is currently looking for highly motivated field
assistants. Applicants that want to use this opportunity as a jumping
board to help them pursue a post-grad degree (MSc. or PhD) in
Behavioural Ecology, Anthropology, Evolutionary Psychology or any
related field are especially encouraged to apply.

Assistants will help 2 PhD-students and 1 on-site post-doc with the
habituation of and data collection on a targeted 10 groups of wild
vervet monkeys at our field-site in Kwazulu-Natal, South-Africa.
Behavioural data (both observational and experimental) and invasive
genetic samples (ear-clips) are currently collected on 6 groups (each
equipped with GPS/VHF loggers), with an additional 3 groups already
identified for habituation in the near future.

Assistants are expected to spend a minimum of 6 months in the field in
order to qualify for full financial compensation of travel expenses to
South Africa, on-site lodging and meals. Assistants available for
shorter periods are also welcome to apply, but will not have these
expenses fully reimbursed. All applicants are responsible for their own
field equipment (hiking shoes, bush clothes, rain gear, etc.), as well
as vaccinations and travel insurance. Research equipment (handheld
computers, binoculars and VHF-receivers for telemetry) are provided.

Successful applicants are proficient in English, have excellent social
skills, and are able to work within a large, interdisciplinary research
team under field conditions.

Applications consisting of a motivation letter (1 page) and curriculum
vitae (up to 2 pages) can be sent electronically to Erik Willems
(e.willems@aim.uzh.ch) who can also provide additional information
upon request.

Dr. Erik P. Willems
Postdoctoral Researcher
Anthropological Institute and Museum
University of Zurich
Winterthurerstrasse 190
8057 Zurich
Tel: +41-(0)4463 55435
Fax: +41-(0)4463 56804

Post-doctoral position: Evolution of cognition

2011-11-09T18:09:00.001+01:00

University of St Andrews, Schools of Biology & Psychology

Research Fellow - Reference: JC1087

You will join a 3-year BBSRC-funded project exploring the role that cognition plays in nest building by birds, including which parts of the brain control nest building. This will be done using a multi-stranded approach incorporating both field and laboratory experiments and two 'model' systems: weaver birds and zebra finches. This project offers the exciting opportunity to address several questions. For instance, why does 'complex' cognition evolve? Can 'complex' cognition be quantified? Why does tool manufacture and use evolve?

You will be a highly motivated individual with an interest in brain and behaviour in non-human animals. You will have a PhD in biology, psychology or neuroscience and relevant experience.

Salary: £29,972 - £30,870 per annum

Potential applicants are encouraged to contact Dr Sue Healy (susan.healy@st-andrews.ac.uk) for further information.

The post is available for 36 months starting January 2012.

Closing Date: 2 December 2011
Interview Date: 9 December 2011

We encourage applicants to apply online at www.vacancies.st-andrews.ac.uk/welcome.aspx, however if you are unable to do this, please call +44 (0)1334 462571 for an application pack.

******************************

******
Dr David M Shuker
NERC Advanced Research Fellow
School of Biology
University of St Andrews
Harold Mitchell Building
St Andrews
Fife KY16 9TH
UK
Email: david.shuker@st-andrews.ac.uk

LAB WEBSITE: http://biology.st-andrews.ac.uk/shuker

Tel: +44 1334 463 376
Fax: +44 1334 463 366

2011-11-08T08:23:00.002+01:00

You will work as part of a team investigating the genomic basis of
phenotypic variation in the tree genus Populus (with particular
reference to adaptive and wood traits), You will have an important
role in the generation of whole genome sequences of multiple poplar
species in conjunction with the Genome Sciences Centre, Vancouver, and
will be responsible for between-species comparative analysis of
genomes in a phylogenetic context, including the detection of
adaptively significant variation. The position represents a superb
opportunity to work at the leading edge of comparative evolutionary
genomics and your work will underpin a major tree biology project. You
will have a PhD and previous experience in the genomics of a plant or
animal system. Familiarity with one or more of the following would be
an advantage: comparative genomics, phylogenetic analysis, selection
detection algorithms, genome evolution, next generation sequencing
methods, programming for bioinfomatics.

General enquiries and applications (comprising your cv and the names/
contact details of 3 referees) to:
Professor Quentin Cronk
quentin.cronk@ubc.ca
Department of Botany and Biodiversity Research Centre,
University of British Columbia,
Vancouver, CANADA

--
POPCAN: Genetic improvement of poplar trees as a Canadian bioenergy
feedstock
http://www.genomebc.ca/portfolio/projects/forestry-projects/popcan/

Post-doc opportunity: the evolution and function of visual signals

2011-11-08T08:20:00.002+01:00

A position is available for a post-doc at New York University (NYU). The
post-doc will work on projects related to the evolution and function of
primate colors and patterns. Several collaborative projects in this area in
our lab are ongoing and new projects are being established. These include
both comparative analyses and species-specific studies of the function and
evolution of facial and genital color patterns. The post-doc will have
considerable input into the direction and nature of the research undertaken
and will initiate and develop projects according to their own interests.

Applicants with experience of evolutionary studies of animal communication
and signaling, or of relevant related areas in behavioral and evolutionary
ecology, are encouraged to apply. The position would especially suit
researchers who have experience in visual modeling, and the analysis of
pattern, shape and color data in studies of signal evolution, or those who
have related expertise and are eager to learn such techniques. In addition
to the collection and analysis of standardized images from specific
species, other aspects of the research may include undertaking comparative
analyses, creating carefully calibrated stimuli, and undertaking
experiments in which color images are presented to living primates to
assess their response. In addition to applications from those with direct
experience of working on primate signaling, communication and behavior,
applications are encouraged from researchers with relevant experience from
any other taxa, such as birds, insects, frogs and fish.

The post-doc will be paid a salary according to his/her experience and will
be eligible for NYU benefits such as healthcare and retirement. Nationality
is open. NYU is located in the Greenwich Village area of Manhattan.

To apply, please email a cover letter and a CV (including referee contact
information) to James Higham at: jhigham@nyu.edu

See also: https://files.nyu.edu/jph13/public/james.html

*
*

*References *

Higham, J.P., Hughes, K.D., Brent, L.J.N., Dubuc, C., Engelhardt, A.,
Heistermann, M., Maestripieri, D., Santos, L.R & Stevens, M. 2011.
Familiarity affects assessment of facial signals of female fertility by
free-ranging male rhesus macaques.

Proceedings of the Royal Society B 278 3452-3458

Higham, J.P., Brent, L.J.N., Dubuc, C., Accamando, A,K., Engelhardt, A.,
Gerald, M.S., Heistermann, M. & Stevens, M. 2010. Color signal information
content and the eye of the beholder: a case study in the rhesus macaque.

Behavioral Ecology 21 739-746

Stevens, M., Stoddard, M.C., & Higham, J.P. 2009. Studying primate color:
towards visual system dependent methods.

International Journal of Primatology 30 893-917

Higham, J.P., MacLarnon, A., Ross, C., Heistermann, M. & Semple, S. 2008
Baboon sexual swellings: Information content of size and color.

Hormones and Behavior 53 452-462

James Higham <jhigham@nyu.edu>

Expenses-paid field assistant positions to study evolution of family living and cooperative breeding in birds in Spain

2011-11-03T12:58:00.002+01:00

We are seeking applicants for field research volunteers for the upcoming
breeding season to join our field project investigating the evolution
of family living and cooperative breeding in birds. The research is
conducted in Andalusia, southern Spain. Starting dates range from the end
of February to the middle of March and work will continue through June.

Our project researches the shifts in parental investment patterns in pair
living, kin-group living and cooperatively breeding birds. The project
is based at the University of Bern, Switzerland (PI Michael Griesser,
PhD students Emeline Mourocq & Gretchen Wagner).

The work of the volunteers will consist of carrying out field experiments,
locating nests, assisting the PhD students with catching and ringing
birds, behavioral observations and data management. This work will
give insight into experimental fieldwork and is carried out in scenic
semi-arid habitats of southern Spain. We work all day, 5-6 days per
week, in the field depending on the workload. Observe that temperatures
at the beginning of the field season can be below 0∑C, and later in
the breeding season be easily above 35∑C. The work can be physically
strenuous at times.

Qualifications:
(1) BSc or higher in Biology or similar qualification
(2) Ability to work and live in small groups and sociable personality
(3) Fluent in English
(4) Previous field experience a plus
(5) Knowledge in observing & handling birds is a plus
(6) Driving license is helpful
(7) Basic knowledge of Spanish is helpful

These are expenses-paid field assistant positions, covering accommodation,
food and travel expenses of up to 300㈡ to and from the study site.

Applications - including a CV, a letter of motivation (1 pg.) and the
name of two referees - should be send to both:

Emeline Mourocq: emeline.mourocq@iee.unibe.ch and Gretchen Wagner:
gretchen.wagner@iee.unibe.ch

Please use “Volunteer Field Assistant Position in Spain” as the
subject and note your availability during this time period in the body
of the e-mail. Applications received until 1st January 2012 will be
given full consideration.

For further information on the project, see:
http://www.iee.unibe.ch/content/staff/griesser
http://www.iee.unibe.ch/content/staff/gwagner
http://www.iee.unibe.ch/content/staff/mourocq

gretchen.wagner@iee.unibe.ch

2 jobs in Lake Baikal research: postdoc and information manager

2011-10-31T18:18:00.001+01:00

Ecolog colleagues:
These two positions are available at UC-Santa Barbara for a newly funded Lake Baikal Dimensions of Biodiversity research project. More postdoc and student positions soon will be advertised at the collaborating institutions listed below...

Postdoctoral Fellow
We seek a postdoctoral research associate to primarily focus on identifying the biotic and abiotic drivers of temporally shifting community dynamics in plankton assemblages, through the analysis of long-term data from Lake Baikal. The postdoc also will collaborate more generally on multiple themes of biodiversity research at the lake.

The postdoc will be based at the National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis (http://nceas.ucsb.edu) at the University of California, Santa Barbara, working under the supervision of Stephanie Hampton (http://nceas.ucsb.edu/~hampton), and collaborating with faculty and students at Wellesley College, Michigan State University, University of Texas, and East Tennessee State University.

The successful candidate ideally will have (or soon have) a Ph.D. in ecology or a related discipline, a strong background in freshwater ecology, a record of peer-reviewed publication, a solid background in statistics, and a willingness to learn Russian and to spend two weeks each summer at Lake Baikal with colleagues.

Start date is negotiable, ideally 1 January 2012. Please feel free to ask questions about your fit to the position before applying (hampton@nceas.ucsb.edu). To apply, attach your CV to an email that describes your interest in the position and gives the name and contact information for three references; send this email to hampton@nceas.ucsb.edu with the subject line: Baikal postdoc application.

Review of applicants will begin 14 November 2011.

Information Manager
We seek an environmental Information Manager for a 3-yr project focused on biodiversity in Lake Baikal. The Information Manager will interact with environmental informatics experts at UCSB and distributed project personnel to ensure that data are managed in accordance with best practices, training all project personnel in quality assurance and quality control protocols for data and metadata entry and management.

The Information Manager will be based at the National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis (http://nceas.ucsb.edu) at the University of California, Santa Barbara. The Information Manager will work under the supervision of Dr. Stephanie Hampton (http://nceas.ucsb.edu/~hampton), in close collaboration with researchers at Wellesley College, Michigan State University, University of Texas, and East Tennessee State University.

While the focus of the position is on data management and maintaining excellent communication among data users, ideally the Information Manager also will be meaningfully engaged with the science and logistics of working on Lake Baikal in Siberia.

The successful candidate likely will have at least a bachelor's degree, willingness to learn some basic Russian, excellent interpersonal communication skills, and experience working with large environmental data sets. Ideally the Information Manager would also have a background in aquatic ecology, experience managing scientific logistics (field or lab), and proficiency in Plone web site maintenance.

Start date is negotiable, but ideally 1 January 2012. Salary and benefits are expected to be consistent with appointment at the level of Junior Specialist 1 at UCSB: http://ap.ucsb.edu/compensation.and.benefits/ucsb.salary.scales
To apply, attach your CV to an email that describes your interest in the position and gives the name and contact information for three references; send this email to hampton@nceas.ucsb.edu with the subject line: Baikal information manager application.

Review of applicants will begin 14 November 2011.

Lake Baikal - Spanning more than 4 degrees of latitude and obtaining a maximum depth greater than 1.6 km, Siberia's Lake Baikal is the world's deepest and most ancient lake. Biological diversity of this ancient lake is extraordinary, strongly influencing UNESCO's 1996 decision to designate Lake Baikal a World Heritage Site. Many of these species are endemic and adapted to Lake Baikal's unique environment, a comparatively cold and extreme lake. The unusual endemic fauna include the world's only exclusively freshwater pinniped species (the Baikal seal Phoca sibirica), 344 species of amphipods, and 33 species of sculpin fishes, including the deep-dwelling translucent golomyanka (Comephorus baicalensis and C. dybowskii).

For a project abstract, see:
http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1136637

For more information about the history of this Russian-American collaboration, see: http://www.nytimes.com/2008/05/06/science/earth/06lake.html

Several papers describing work to date on one of the primary Baikal data sets can be found here:
http://www.nceas.ucsb.edu/~hampton/Site/Hampton_Publications.html

The department is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community through research, teaching and service.

An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer, or An EO/AA Employer.

--
Stephanie E. Hampton
Deputy Director
National Center for Ecological Analysis& Synthesis
University of California, Santa Barbara
735 State St., Suite 300
Santa Barbara, CA 93101-3351, USA
http://www.nceas.ucsb.edu
hampton@nceas.ucsb.edu
Tel (805) 892-2505
Fax (805) 892-2510

Postdoc position in Chile

2011-10-24T11:30:00.001+02:00

The Lab of Biological Invasions in Concepción, Chile has an open post-doc position for 14 months starting in November or December 2011. The aim is to analyze existing plant invasion datasets from a landscape ecology and biogeographic perspective.
More on the lab at www.lib.udec.cl
Interested people can contact Aníbal Pauchard at pauchard@udec.cl for more details

------------------------------

--------------------------------------------------------------------
Aníbal Pauchard
Laboratorio de Invasiones Biológicas (LIB) www.lib.udec.cl

Facultad de Ciencias Forestales
Universidad de Concepción
Casilla 160-C, Concepción, Chile

Fonos: 56-41-2204934, 2204679 Fax: 56-41-2255164
pauchard@udec.cl http://www.udec.cl/docen/pauchard
Instituto de Ecología y Biodiversidad (IEB) http://www.ieb-chile.cl
Ing. en Conservación de Recursos Naturales http://www.conservacion.udec.cl
(Alternative e-mail: anpauch@gmail.com)

Evolutive Ecology Seminars

2011-10-06T22:18:00.002+02:00

Thursday 20th October 2011

17h Wendy Hood

Assistant research professor in Biological Sciences at Auburn University

Calcium, bones, milk, and babies: Investigating the role of extrinsic and intrinsic limitations on reproduction

One of the most essential interactions between an organism and its environment is through the food it consumes to support survival and reproduction. Dr Hood’s research focuses on the interaction between diet, life-history tradeoffs, and the physiological mechanisms that control these interactions. A primary focus of her laboratory has been understanding the cost to mothers of mobilizing bone mineral during lactation compared to the rewards to offspring in the form of superior skeletal development. Dr Hood will describe her recent work on extrinsic and intrinsic constraints on reproductive performance in bats, mice, and ground squirrels.

18h Geoffrey Hill

Professor in Biological Sciences at Auburn University

Rethinking the mechanisms of honest signaling

Condition is a nearly ubiquitous term in the behavioral, physiological, and evolutionary literature, yet existing definitions are incomplete or ambiguous. Too often in the literature, condition is defined as nutrient reserves. This poor conceptualization has led to confusion regarding what is being signaled by condition-dependent traits and how to interpret links between ornamentation and individual characteristics such as nutrient reserves, oxidative state, and immunocompetence. I propose that the combined effects of the somatic state, epigenetic state, and genotype of an organism determine condition. I define condition as the relative capacity to maintain optimal functionality of vital systems within the body. A condition-dependent trait is a conspicuous feature of an organism that enhances perception of condition. If the honesty of ornamental traits derives from connections to vital cellular processes then there is no need to invoke a resource tradeoffs to insure signal honesty.

Free access
Sala d'Actes del

Laboratori de Natura

Museu de Ciències Naturals de Barcelona

P.Picasso s/n, 08003 Barcelona

Curso Básico de Biodiversidad

2011-10-06T11:46:00.001+02:00

Darwin Eventur está organizando junto con el Departamento de Botánica y el Departamento de Zoología de la Universidad de Granada, y en el que colaboran la Asociación Sectorial de Alumnos de Biología de Granada (S.A.B.-Granada), la titulación de Biología de la Ugr, y la Facultad de Ciencias de Granada el curso:

"Curso Básico de Biodiversidad" del 3 al 5 de Noviembre de 2011, en el Salón de Grados de la Facultad de Ciencias de Granada, en horario de mañana y tarde.

El curso durará 15 horas, donde se fomentará el conocimiento e importancia de los seres vivos que habitan en nuestro planeta, ya sean del Dominio Archaea, Bacteria o Eukarya.

Se ha solicitado 1 crédito ECTS para todas las titulaciones de Grado de la Ugr y 1,5 créditos para las titulaciones a extinguir de la Facultad de Ciencias, y de la Facultad de Farmacia.

El precio del curso es de 25€, aunque tenemos una doble promoción! Podéis ver la información completa en: http://goo.gl/RuYng

Y el programa del curso: http://goo.gl/pbHt2

Graduate position: ETH Zurich Speciation

2011-10-06T11:45:00.001+02:00

Doctoral position available

Institute of Integrative Biology, ETH Zürich

In the group Plant Ecological Genetics of the Institute Integrative
Biology, ETH Zürich, is a doctoral position available starting January
1, 2012.

Project title: Mechanisms of pre- and postzygotic isolation in cryptic
Epichloë species

Project description: Speciation is one of the most fundamental processes
in biology that leads to biological diversity. However, the mechanisms of
speciation are variable in different organisms and incompletely known,
particularly in members of Fungi. Epichloë endophytes (Ascomycota,
Clavicipitaceae) with its sexual species offer an ideal model system
on which mechanisms of reproductive isolation, a prerequisite of
speciation, can be studied. The planned research will investigate
several potential pre- and post zygotic isolation mechanisms that may
operate among members of genus Epichloë including a species complex
with several host-associated cryptic species. The project is positioned
at the interface of ecology, genetics and evolutionary biology and will
involve field work as well as greenhouse and lab experiments.

We offer a supportive and stimulating environment within the plant
ecological genetics group on the main campus of ETH Zürich.

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate (3 year funding)
with strong interests in ecological genetics and/or evolutionary
biology. Candidates should have a Diploma or Master's degree in Biology
or Plant Sciences.

Applications should be sent to the address given below (preferably by
e-mail) and should include (1) a letter describing research motivation
and experience, (2) a CV together with copies of degree certificates
(graduate and undergraduate), and (3) contact details of at least two
scientific referees.

Contact:
Prof. Dr. A. Leuchtmann
Institute of Integrative Biology
Universitaetstrasse 16
CH-8092 Zurich, Switzerland
e-mail: adrian.leuchtmann@env.ethz.ch
phone: +41 44 632 3854

MS and PhD Research and Teaching Assistantships in Aquatic Ecology

2011-10-06T11:44:00.001+02:00

The Aquatic Ecology Laboratory at Washington State University Vancouver,
directed by Dr. Stephen Bollens and Dr. Gretchen Rollwagen-Bollens, has paid
assistantships available for new graduate students to contribute to a
growing and dynamic program in Aquatic Ecology. We are currently accepting
applications to begin study in January 2012, or August 2012.

Specific research opportunities exist in the following areas: 1) aquatic
invasive species (e.g. zooplankton, crayfish, fish), 2) harmful algal
blooms, 3) fish and invertebrate response to wetland restoration, and 4)
diel vertical migration of plankton.

Graduate students are supported on a combination of Research Assistantships
and traditional Teaching Assistantships. Students who begin in January 2012
are also eligible to apply for one-year “GK-12” Teaching Fellowships which
pay a $30,000 annual stipend with the expectation of 15 hours/week
collaborating with a middle school science teacher in a local school district.

Degree programs: M.S. and Ph.D. in Environmental Science; M.S. and Ph.D. in
Zoology. Application deadlines: For January 2012 admission, apply as soon
as possible. For August 2012 admission, applications will be accepted
through March 2011; but priority will given to those who apply by January
10, 2011.

Campus and Facilities: Washington State University Vancouver is one of four
campuses in the WSU system, and is a rapidly expanding institution located
within the greater Portland, OR/Vancouver, WA metropolitan area, near the
Columbia River, Cascade Mountains and coastal Pacific ocean. The 351-acre
campus offers new, state-of-the-art classroom and research facilities, where
teaching and research are conducted in an interdisciplinary and
collaborative atmosphere.

For more information please visit the WSUV Aquatic Ecology Laboratory
website (http://research.vancouver.wsu.edu/aquatic-ecology-lab), or the WSU
Vancouver Science Programs website (http://science.vancouver.wsu.edu/) or
contact us directly:

Dr. Stephen M. Bollens (sbollens@vancouver.wsu.edu)
Dr. Gretchen Rollwagen-Bollens (rollboll@vancouver.wsu.edu)
Washington State University Vancouver
14204 NE Salmon Creek Avenue
Vancouver, WA
98686-9600
USA

Postdoc in USA

2011-10-06T11:36:00.000+02:00

Postdoctoral Position at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill

A position is available for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the lab of Maria Servedio at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, to work on theoretical models of male and mutual mate choice. The applicant will be expected to develop an independent research project(s) in addition to collaborating with the PI on theoretical projects. Prior experience with theoretical modeling techniques, a strong mathematical background, and programming skills is preferred. A Ph.D. and a strong background in evolution is required.

Research in the Servedio lab concentrates developing mathematical models of speciation and mate choice. Please see http://www.bio.unc.edu/Faculty/Servedio/Lab/Home.html or contact Maria Servedio (servedio@email.unc.edu) for more information on projects ongoing in the lab.

The appointment is for 2 years with a flexible start date. Send applications including a CV, description of research experience and interests, brief description of background in theory and related skills, and names and addresses of three references to Maria Servedio at servedio@email.unc.edu

Informal inquiries are welcome as well. Review of applications will begin on October 30 and continue until the position is filled.

Volunteee field assistants for project in South Africa

2011-10-06T11:32:00.000+02:00

2 volunteers needed from November / December 2011 onwards

2 volunteers needed from January 2012 onwards

as field assistants for the project:

Evolution and Socio-Ecology of small Mammals in the Succulent Karoo of South Africa

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. 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 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$, 125 Euro) must be paid for accommodation at the research station. Students must buy their own food etc in Springbok (costs of about R 2500, approx. 360 US$ 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 November / December 2011 and two additional volunteers starting in January 2012. Volunteers are expected to stay at least 4 months, but longer periods of up to 6months are possible.

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

Dr. Carsten Schradin
Research Assistant, Department of Animal Behavior,
University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
Tel: +41 - (0)44 635 5486

Honorary Researcher at the School of Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences,
University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa.

Postdoc position in Germany

2011-10-06T11:29:00.000+02:00

The Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB, www.igb-berlin.de) is the principal German research centre for limnological and inland fisheries biological
research. It unites hydrologists, chemists, microbiologists, fish ecologists, fisheries biologists, theoretical biologists and social scientists to study freshwater ecology and inland
fisheries from a holistic systems perspective. IGB is member of the Forschungsverbund Berlin e.V. (www.fv-berlin.de) and the Leibniz-Association (www.wgl.de). The FVB manages 8 large research institutes in Berlin that have close links to all three universities in the German capital. IGB offers excellent laboratory and field facilities for interdisciplinary research, large-scale experimental facilities, and long-term research programs and data sets. Work by IGB combines basic and applied research as a basis for sustainable management of aquatic ecosystems and inland fisheries including aquaculture and recreational fisheries.

The Inland Fisheries Management Laboratory at Humboldt-University of Berlin (Germany) and the Inter- and Transdisciplinary Young Investigator Group Besatzfisch (Stocked Fish Project) (www.besatz-fisch.de, see also www.adaptfish.igb-berlin.de) in the Department of Biology and Ecology of Fishes at IGB invite applications for a
two-year position (starting date January, 1, 2012) as:

PostDoc/Scientist − Modelling Fisheries as Coupled Social-Ecological System

Topic: Developing integrative, process-based simulation models of human-nature interactions exemplified by German recreational fisheries. Models shall focus on analysing the social, economic and biological impacts of freshwater fish stocking in the face of heterogeneous anglers exploiting spatially structured freshwater fisheries governed by varying institutional settings. The management strategy evaluation framework shall be used to evaluate the implications of key uncertainties associated with the implementation of different management tools and to study resulting trade-offs in terms of socio-economic and biological outcomes.

Requirements:
* PhD in natural resource modelling, mathematical biology, economics, quantitative environmental sociology or related fields, preferably with a focus on fisheries
* Strong quantitative skills (model-building and statistics, key programming languages)
* Good academic record in terms of publications
* Ability and motivation to work both independently and in an interdisciplinary team of social and natural scientists
* Very good working knowledge of English
* Familiarity with recreational fishing and German language are benefits

Salary is paid according to the TVöD and includes health insurance (gross salary up to 50.000 € depending on age and qualifications). In keeping with the IGB's policy regarding gender equality, female applicants are particularly encouraged to apply. Disabled people with identical qualifications will be favoured. Please send your application materials (brief motivation letter of 2-4 pages with an outline of past and future research topics in light of the above-mentioned topical framework, CV, list of publications, three most important papers, scans
of certificates, names and email of three referees) in one combined PDF electronically not later than October, 30, 2011 to arlinghaus@igb-berlin.de (Prof. Dr.
Robert Arlinghaus, also to be used to address questions related to the job).

Complete contact details are:
Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries,
Forschungsverbund Berlin e.V.
Department of Biology and Ecology of Fishes,
Prof. Dr. Robert Arlinghaus, Müggelseedamm 310, 12587 Berlin,
Germany

Postdoc position: Data analysis on and modelling of Animal Societies

2011-08-23T14:06:00.001+02:00

Full description:
www.sg.ethz.ch/openpositions/postdoc_animalsocieties

See the announcement poster at
www.sg.ethz.ch/openpositions/poster_postdocanimalsocieties

At the Chair of Systems Design of ETH Zurich (Switzerland), we use methods from
complex systems theory to understand the structure and dynamics of social
systems, ranging from animal groups to human social networks.

One of our areas of interest is the interplay between the social and spatial
dimensions of collective behaviour in animal groups. By using locational and
behavioural data coming from long-term projects on the study on social mammals,
we are able to study the structure and dynamics of both the social network and
collective movement of animal groups. The species of social mammals we study
include meerkats as well as social bats and mice. We work in close collaboration
with research groups in evolutionary biology from different universities in
Europe to lead truly interdisciplinary research in the field.

We are looking for skilled, transdisciplinary, quantitative researchers, with a
will to extend the application of their theoretical knowledge beyond the usual
boundaries. They should be able to study large experimental datasets to identify
universal patterns and statistical regularities. The candidate will be asked to
work with biologists to frame these findings in a general, evolutionary context,
and to develop formal models of animal behaviour.

The candidate will have the opportunity to integrate in a lively team of
scientists with various backgrounds (from economics to computer science), and
maintain close collaboration with behavioural biologists. Depending on the
development of the project, opportunities to work in the field may be
considered. The position requires strong communication skills and fluent
English, written and spoken.

We offer excellent working conditions in a motivated team, a competitive salary
(according to the ETH Zurich salary scale), and innovative research in close
collaboration with leading institutions all over the world.
Applicants are asked to send their curriculum vitae, list of and links to their
publications, names of at least three references, and an overview of their
research interests (all in PDF files and in English) to Ms. Rahel Dulik,
rdulik@ethz.ch. For specific inquiries, Prof. Frank Schweitzer
(fschweitzer@ethz.ch) should be contacted.

Nicolas Perony.
ETH Zurich, Nicolas Perony, Chair of Systems Design,
KPL F 32, Kreuzplatz 5, CH-8032 Zurich, Switzerland
Tel +41 44 632 81 98, Fax +41 44 632 18 80
http://www.sg.ethz.ch/people/peronyn

Nicolas Perony

Graduate and Professional CourseNon-Invasive Genetic Techniques in Wildlife Conservation

2011-08-18T16:39:00.000+02:00

May 19-25, 2012
Smithsonian-Mason Global Conservation Studies Program
At the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA, USA
Visit http://conservationtraining.si.edu or contact SCBItraining@si.edu
for more information.

This course is an introduction for graduate students and professionals
to the applications, benefits, and drawbacks of non-invasive genetic
techniques to wildlife conservation. The course will concentrate on the
use of non-invasive techniques to answer questions in animal behavior,
population biology, and population management, with a particular focus on
the conservation of mammalian populations. Participants gain hands-on
experience relating to all stages of a research project utilizing
modern non-invasive methods by working with expert researchers through
a combination of field, laboratory and computer-based modules.

Throughout the course participants work through directed research
projects, progressing from study design through field data collection,
sampling protocols, and DNA extraction and amplification, to analysis of
microsatellite and sequence data using the most effective and accessible
software packages. The course focuses on relatedness, population size
estimation and population dynamics; additional lectures address genotype
reliability, research applications for ancient DNA, and applications of
next-generation pyrosequencing.

Many of these groundbreaking non-invasive genetic techniques were
initially developed at the Smithsonian's National Zoo and its Center
for Conservation and Evolutionary Genetics (CCEG). Course instructors
include scientists from CCEG (Drs. Jesus Maldonado and Rob Fleischer)
and George Mason University (Dr. Christine Bozarth) and several expert
visiting instructors including Drs. Mike Schwartz, Elizabeth Archie,
and Lori Eggert. While most instruction takes place in Front Royal,
the course also includes laboratory work at the National Zoo's new
state-of-the-art genetics lab in Washington, DC.

The course fee is $1,500, which includes instruction and course materials
as well as all meals, lodging, and transport to/from Washington-Dulles
International Airport (IAD). All other travel costs and incidental
expenses are the participant's responsibility. Participants earn
Continuing Education Units; graduate course credit (1) is available
for qualified applicants through George Mason University (total fee:
$1600 in-state (VA), $1850 out-of-state). Participants should have
previously completed a college-level genetics and basic ecology/evolution
course. Applications due by March 5th, 2012.

Additional Upcoming Courses:

For more information on each of these, see:
http://conservationtraining.si.edu

* Conservation Conflict Resolution (January 16-20, 2012)

* Spatial Ecology, Geospatial Analysis, & Remote Sensing for
Conservation (February 6-17, 2012)

* Statistics for Ecology and Conservation Biology (March
5-16, 2012)

* Species Monitoring & Conservation: Amphibians (March 26-
April 6, 2012)

* Species Monitoring & Conservation: Terrestrial Mammals (April
16-27, 2012)

* Adaptive Management for Conservation Success (June 11-22, 2012)
* Effective Conservation Leadership (2012 dates to be determined)

For information on the Applied Conservation Science Graduate Certificate see:
http://mccs.gmu.edu/graduate/certificate

For information on the Applied Conservation Science Professional Certificate see:
www.ocpe.gmu.edu/programs/green/applied_conservation.html

Joe Kolowski, Ph.D.| Graduate and Professional Training Manager
Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute
Center for Conservation Education and Sustainability
National Zoological Park
Mail: P.O. Box 37012, MRC 0705, Washington, DC 20013-7012
Location: 1100 Jefferson Drive., SW, Washington, DC 20013
T 202-633-4787| F 202-786-2557 | Email kolowskij@si.edu

Ph.D. Linking traits, fitness and population dynamics.

2011-08-18T16:38:00.001+02:00

I am looking for a Ph.D. student to explore the links between genetically
based traits, fitness and population dynamics. This research is part of
a long-term program in collaboration with Prof. Marco Festa-Bianchet at
the Universit? de Sherbrooke.? Since 1971, individually marked bighorn
sheep have been monitored from birth to death at Ram Mountain. The student
will collect behavioural observations during two or three seasons (May to
September) and assist with capture, marking and measuring of the sheep,
collecting samples for hormone and DNA analyses.

Assets for this position include a M.Sc. degree, publications, a knowledge
of 'basic' French (or a strong willingness to learn it), fieldwork
experience, strong quantitative skills.? Canadian candidates will be
preferred, but strong foreign candidates will be seriously considered.

A tax-free scholarship is available, and financing for travel, fieldwork
and lab expenses has been secured.? The program can begin in either
January, May or September 2012.

For information on my research, see
http://pages.usherbrooke.ca/fpelletier/

Interested candidates should e-mail a CV, a statement of research
interests and the e-mails of two referees before the 1st of October to
Fanie Pelletier: fanie.pelletier@usherbrooke.ca

Fanie Pelletier, Ph.D.
Professeure Agrégée
Université de Sherbrooke
Département de biologie
Faculté des Sciences
Sherbrooke (Québec)
CANADA J1K2R1

tel.: 819-821-8000 poste 61092
fax: 819 821-8049
fanie.pelletier@usherbrooke.ca

Fanie Pelletier

PhD-student and Postdoctoral positions in the Section of Ecology, University of Turku, Finland

2011-08-18T16:30:00.001+02:00

Positions for one PhD-student and one Postdoc are open in the project
focusing on regulation of the rocky littoral communities of the Baltic Sea,
funded by the Academy of Finland. Objectives are two-fold reflecting the
nature of community regulation arising on one hand from the characteristics
of the foundation species and through interactions with the higher trophic
levels on the other. First, community genetics will be applied to ask how
genetic characteristics of the foundation species, the brown alga Fucus
vesiculosus may extend to community assembly and to the strength of
ecological interactions. This includes characterization of community
phenotypes of periphyton, macroalgae and invertebrates as well as
experiments on consequences of genetic variation of the foundation species
on the associated communities. Second, the strong link between herbivores
and producers in marine benthic communities opens up a possibility for
trophic cascades. Top-down regulation will be studied by taking advantage of
the rapid increase of the fish-feeding sea-bird Great Cormorant in the
northern Baltic Sea. Bird predation may form a cascade, which by depressing
fish predation allows crustacean and gastropod mesograzers to control the
structure and function of the littoral producer assemblage.

The PhD student position will be available from 1st Sep 2011 (starting time
negotiable) to 31st Aug 2015. A successful applicant is expected to have (or
obtain promptly) an MSc degree in ecology, evolutionary biology or marine
sciences. The doctoral study may focus either on community genetics or
trophic cascades, or combine both aspects. Ideal candidate shows high
motivation and enthusiasm for research, creativity and ability to
independent (though supervised) work. Experience in statistical analysis,
underwater field work and maritime boating are assets.

The Postdoc position will be available from 1st Jan 2012 (starting time
negotiable) to 31st Aug 2015. Require-ments include a PhD degree with
relevant experience, a promising publication record, abilities for both
self-initiative and team-oriented scientific work (including strenuous
field/lab work), and willingness for student supervision.

Applications for the PhD position will be reviewed starting at 22th August
2011 and those for the Postdoc position starting at 30th Nov 2011; however
candidates will be considered until the positions are filled. The salary
will be in accordance with the Finnish university norms, about 1900-2700
€/mo for the PhD student and about 3000-3700 €/mo for the Postdoc, the exact
level depending on competence.
The application documents should include:
1.Motivation letter explaining why you are interested in and why you are
suitable for the position.
2. CV including education and prior research experience.
3.List of relevant publications (for PhD and Postdoc positions) or
one-page summary of the MSc thesis (for PhD position)
4.Name and contact information for two academic referees
Send the above by email to me, preferably as a single pdf file. Feel free to
contact me for further enquiries:

Dr. Veijo Jormalainen
Section of Ecology
Department of Biology
FI-20014 University of Turku
Finland
veijo.jormalainen@utu.fi

For further information about the environment, see
http://users.utu.fi/veijor/index.html
http://www.sci.utu.fi/biologia/en/
http://www.turku.fi/Public/default.aspx?culture=en-US&contentlan=2&nodeid=23

20 Positions for Experienced Researchers

2011-08-17T15:13:00.000+02:00

Ikerbasque, the Basque Foundation for Science (Spain), offers 20 permanent contract positions for experienced researchers within any of the Basque Research Institution (Universities, BERC - Basque Excellence Research Centres, CRC/CIC - Cooperative Research Centres, Biomedical institutions and Technology Corporations, among others).

Ikerbasque, the Basque Government granted foundation for Science, is providing permanent contracts for experienced scientist in every field of research, within any of the local research institutions.

The successful candidate will be awarded with an Ikerbasque Researcher Professorship, a position at the Basque Science System, and a salary according the parameters of the local system, experience, track and past achievements and future plans (including the possibility of negotiating start-up funding).

Eligibility / Minimum requirements:

The applicants must have their PhD completed before January 2007 as our call is destined to recruit consolidated researchers.
Only researchers with a solid research track, senior level and international research experience will be considered.

APPLICATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION at www.science.eu.com

The evaluation committee will only consider strongest candidates with excellent leadership capabilities and an outstanding research record.

Evaluation

The external evaluation committee is composed of members of the international scientific community.

The evaluation of the applications is based on:

Scientific merit and research track
Relevance of research topic and latest publications
Concordance with Basque research capabilities

Link: http://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/ACZ887/20-positions-for-experienced-researchers/

Long-term postdoctoral position in theoretical ecology

2011-08-17T15:11:00.000+02:00

I am recruiting a postdoctoral fellow on a long-term contract as part of the creation of a Centre for Biodiversity Theory and Modelling at the Experimental Ecology Station in Moulis, France. The mission of the new Centre will be to foster and perform innovative theoretical research into the ecological and societal causes and consequences of biodiversity changes. Two additional postdoctoral fellowships will be available in 2012.

The recruited postdoc will help to develop ecological theory in one or several of the following areas: (1) maintenance and functional consequences of biodiversity; (2) effects of biodiversity changes on ecosystem functioning, stability, and services; (3) dynamics and functioning of metacommunities and metaecosystems; (4) environmental changes and evolution of ecosystems; and (5) humans in the biosphere. Theory is understood here broadly as including the following components: (1) development of new concepts; (2) building and analysis of mathematical models; and (3) application of these concepts and models to empirical data.

The position is available for a period of 3−5 years starting before the end of 2011, with a contract as IR2 (net monthly salary of about €2,200) renewed on a yearly basis. Applicants should meet the following requirements: (1) have a PhD in ecology or related disciplines; (2) have strong quantitative or mathematical skills; and (3) develop an independent research project in one or several of the above areas.

Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. To apply, e-mail a letter of application, a CV, a statement of research interests, and arrange to have two letters of recommendation (in either French or English) e-mailed to me.

Michel Loreau Email: michel.loreau@mcgill.ca Web page: http://www.biology.mcgill.ca/faculty/loreau/

Current address: Department of Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada

Forthcoming address: Station d’Ecologie expérimentale, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Moulis, France

Research Fellowship at the Mammal Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences in Białowieża, Poland

2011-08-17T15:09:00.000+02:00

*VACANCY*
Mammal Research Institute is seeking a Post-Doc or Professor to join its
research team between 2010-2012 under the 7th Framework Programme
Support Actions project BIOCONSUS (Research Potential in Conservation
and Sustainable Management of Biodiversity), in one of the following
scientific profiles:
* conservation genetics;
* conservation ecology;
* mathematical modelling and advanced statistics in ecology and
biogeography;
* GIS applications in ecology, genetics, biogeography, and biodiversity
studies.

*SCOPE*
Full time work (100%) for a minimum of 3 months and a maximum of 24 months.

*START DATE*
According to agreement -- position is open from 1 April, 2011.

*REQUIREMENTS *
Candidates have to:
(1) possess a PhD;
(2) have ?4 years of research experience since gaining a university
diploma giving access to doctoral studies;
(3) possess an excellent writing and speaking skills in English.

*EVALUATION CRITERIA*
(1) scientific skills, especially the interdisciplinary approach;
(2) number and quality of published scientific papers;
(3) experience in work with high-quality research teams;
(4) reference letters.

*TASKS*
The recruited fellow will:
(1) Join the on-going research projects at MRI PAS in the respective
field and widen its scopes and methods with the new knowledge. This will
yield joint publications, and initiate further collaboration reaching
beyond the time span of the BIOCONSUS project;
(2) Deliver a series of lectures and seminars for the staff, students,
invited researchers, and other guests of MRI PAS;
(3) Participate in long-term training of students at MRI PAS by
supervising and co-supervising their MSc theses and diploma papers.

*CONDITIONS *
Salary (subject to social and health insurance deductions, not subject
to taxation) amounts to 3474 Euro/month for the Postdoc and 5211
Euro/month for Professor.

*DOCUMENTATION TO BE SUBMITTED*
The application should be written in English and should include: CV,
list of publications, copy of PhD diploma, copies of no more than five
recent scientific publications, maximum one-page description of former
research and other activities of relevance to the position, and names of
at least two reference persons.

An electronic version of the application should be sent to:
*Professor Bogumiła Jędrzejewska,* bjedrzej@zbs.bialowieza.pl
Secretariat, mripas@zbs.bialowieza.pl

Additionally, applications should be sent _via regular_ post to:
*Professor Dr. habil. Bogumiła Jędrzejewska
Mammal Research Institute
Polish Academy of Sciences
ul. Waszkiewicza 1
17-230 Białowieża, Poland
with a note: "BIOCONSUS Application".*

Screening of applications will continue until a suitable candidate is
appointed.

Mammal Research Institute PAS encourages female researchers to take part
in the application process.

For more information concerning MRI PAS and the BIOCONSUS project please
visit our website: www.zbs.bialowieza.pl

Katarzyna Kubicka, MSc
Administrative Coordinator of BIOCONSUS project
Mammal Research Institute
Polish Academy of Sciences
17-230 Bialowieza
Waszkiewicza 1c, Poland
www.zbs.bialowieza.pl
tel. +48 (85) 682 77 81, fax +48 (85) 682 77 50
mobile: +48 508 527 698

K Kubicka