Overseas Jobs

Graduate Fellowships in Marine Sciences

2009-11-02T02:53:00.000-08:00

The Department of Marine Sciences at the University of South Alabama (USA) and the Dauphin Island Sea Lab (DISL) is seeking applicants for up to six PhD or MS graduate fellowships starting fall 2010. All fellowships include a full tuition waiver and stipend support of $18 – 19,000 for Ph.D. students and $15 – 16,000 for MS students. Faculty research interests include all aspects of biological, chemical, physical, and fisheries oceanography. Research programs in marine fisheries, restoration, conservation and global change science include a strong component of marine and coastal resource management. The program is administered through the Department of Marine Sciences from the main campus in Mobile, but most students and faculty are in residence at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, located about 35 miles south of Mobile.

Applications for fall admission and fellowships support are due by March 1. Enrollment normally begins in the fall semester; however, spring admissions will also be considered. The admission committee makes initial recommendation by April 1 for fall semester enrollment. Minimum requirements for consideration for admission are a baccalaureate degree in a discipline related to marine sciences (e.g. biology, chemistry, geology, physics), a GPA of 3.0 (4.0 point system) and GRE General Test score of 1100 is required for the doctoral program (combined verbal and quantitative). To apply see http://www.southalabama.edu/marinesciences/students.html. Further information on research and departmental resources can be found at www.disl.org or www.southalabama.edu/marinesciences. In addition to fellowship support, several graduate assistantships are available through individual faculty members. All applicants are encouraged to contact faculty members during the application process (see http://www.southalabama.edu/marinesciences/faculty.html).

Research Assistantship, Coastal Oceanography and Engineering

2009-11-02T02:52:00.002-08:00

The Skidaway Institute of Oceanography and the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) announce the availability of funds for two students to join their Joint Program in Coastal Science and Engineering ( http://www.gtsav.gatech.edu/go/cse ). This program, a collaborative effort between Skidaway and Georgia Tech’s Civil and Environmental Engineering program in Savannah, Georgia, focuses on issues and problems that lie at the intersection of science and engineering in coastal and ocean environments. It includes numerous courses jointly taught by Skidaway and GT faculty members, and field experiences on Skidaway’s R/V Savannah, a 29 m UNOLS-fleet vessel.

The available support is for graduate students (M.S. or Ph.D.) admitted to Georgia Tech’s School of Civil and Environmental Engineering (see grad.gatech.edu for application instructions). Students may choose the Environmental Fluid Mechanics and Water Resources (EFMWR) or Environmental Engineering tracks. Funding is available as early as January 2010 to work with a Skidaway investigator on the BOTTOMS-UP benthic observation project (http://www.skio.usg.edu/?p=research/phy/bottomsup/bottomsup). This is a multidisciplinary project, so students with interest in biological, chemical, and physical process-related issues, or a combination, are all encouraged to apply.

Please contact:

Dr. Paul Work, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Tech (paul.work@gatech.edu) for application and academic program information, or
Dr. William Savidge, Skidaway Institute of Oceanography (William.savidge@skio.usg.edu) for more information about the BOTTOMS-UP program and other research opportunities at Skidaway Institute of Oceanography.

PhD position in stream assessment and ecology

2009-11-02T02:52:00.001-08:00

A Ph.D. position is available through the Canadian Rivers Institute at the University of New Brunswick (UNB Fredericton) to study the impacts of multiple stressors on fluvial environments and aquatic communities in agricultural watersheds. Agricultural activities can cause excessive sedimentation, eutrophication and agro-chemical contamination of surface waters. However, the interactive effects of these stressors and the potential for cumulative impacts is poorly understood.

Research tools and techniques that are available include a stable isotope laboratory, experimental stream mesocosms, and stream monitoring infrastructure across a series of watersheds in the potato belt near Grand Falls, New Brunswick.

The Ph.D. project is a key component of strategic collaboration between Environment Canada, Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) and the Canadian Rivers Institute. Primary funding is provided by AAFC’s Sustainable Agriculture Environmental Systems (SAGES) program. The student will be co-supervised by Dr. Joseph Culp (Joseph.Culp@ec.gc.ca) at UNB and Dr. Glenn Benoy (Glenn.Benoy@agr.gc.ca) at the Potato Research Centre.

Interested students should send a letter of interest to Drs. Culp and Benoy including a statement of research interests, curriculum vitae and contact information for three references.

Deadline for submissions is 15 December 2009; position to be filled by May 2010.

Joint Nordic MS Program in Marine Ecosystems and Climate

2009-11-02T02:51:00.001-08:00

Applications are now being accepted for MS students interested in studying the coupling of physical oceanography and biological processes. We are seeking motivated applicants who hold a bachelor of science (BSc) degree or equivalent in marine biology, geophysics (physical oceanography, meteorology, climate dynamics), physics or mathematics. The Joint Nordic Master’s Program in Marine Ecosystems and Climate is a two-year interdisciplinary program hosted by the University of Bergen in Norway, the University of Iceland, Aarhus University in Denmark, and the University of the Faroe Islands. The goal of this program is to produce graduates who are broadly trained in physical oceanography and marine ecology, equipping them to develop innovative solutions to the challenges facing the world’s oceans and in particular the North Atlantic. Students attend courses at each institution during their first year and then select one to host them during their research in the second year.

Please visit our website at: http://folk.uib.no/st08488/webpage2/pg_programme.html to find additional information and application materials for the Joint Nordic Master’s Program in Marine Ecosystems and Climate. Deadline for applications for the 2010 fall semester is 01 June 2010. Students applying from outside the EU are encouraged to submit applications as soon as possible to allow time for visa processing should they be accepted.

Undergrad Study Abroad Marine Ecology & Conservation

2009-10-21T11:11:00.002-07:00

Tropical Marine Ecology and Conservation Semester Abroad: Bonaire, Spring 2010
Undergraduate Study Abroad Opportunity in the Caribbean
The Tropical Marine Biology and Conservation study abroad program is accepting applications for spring semester. Students register for 17 semester hours: Coral Reef Ecology (4), Scientific Diving (4), Environmental and Cultural History of Bonaire (2), Marine Conservation Biology (3) and Independent Research (4). The program description and course syllabi can be found using the following link:
http://www.cieebonaire.org/courses.html

The Scientific Diving course provides dive training that prepares students for AAUS certification at their home universities. Students will receive the following training in the Scientific Diving course: Open Water, Advanced Diver, Rescue Diver, Emergency First Responder, CPR + First Aid, Dan Oxygen Rescue, underwater photography and videography, night diving, and underwater navigation. Students will learn internationally recognized monitoring protocols including REEF and AGRRA.

Independent Research provides students with the opportunity to conduct a research project of their choice in marine science and to publish the results in a student journal, PHYSIS: Journal of Marine Science. A copy of the journal can be downloaded on the following page: http://www.cieebonaire.org/physis.html

Prerequisites: Overall GPA 2.75 or better, 2 semesters of biology, chemistry, geology, ecology or environmental science and a nationally recognized open water SCUBA certification (or a PADI referral – you can do your check out dives in Bonaire). The deadline for application to the spring semester program is 1 November 2009.

Interested students should contact Rita Peachey Director of CIEE Research Station Bonaire at RPeachey@ciee.org or call 1-800-40-STUDY. The study abroad office at your institution will also assist you with registration.

PhD and MS Assistantships: Fish and Aquatic Ecology

2009-10-21T11:11:00.001-07:00

Multiple (2-3) graduate student (PhD and MS) assistantships available to participate in research projects exploring ecological dynamics of Great Lakes fishes. These projects involve an integration of field studies, laboratory analyses, controlled experiments and quantitative modeling.

Research topics include:

1) Recruitment and early life history dynamics: linking early life growth and survival of Great Lakes fishes to physical processes.
2) Intra-specific life history trait variation: inter-population variation of maturation schedules, growth rates, and egg characteristics.
3) Description and modeling of food-web connections among Great Lakes fishes.

Within these general research topics students will have flexibility to develop their own thesis projects. Selected individuals will enroll in Purdue University’s Department of Forestry and Natural Resources (www.fnr.purdue.edu) in West Lafayette, IN.

Qualifications:
Minimum qualifications include a BS (for MS position) or MS (for PhD position) in Biology, Ecology, Fisheries Science, or related field; GPA of 3.2 or greater; and above average GRE scores (at least 50th percentile for quantitative and verbal; at least 4.0 for analytical writing).

Salary:
Assistantships include stipend, full tuition coverage, and insurance.

Start date:
Exact date negotiable (sometime between March-August 2010).

How to Apply:
The positions will remain open until filled. For full consideration, please respond by 18-December-2009 and submit cover letter, CV, GRE scores (unofficial is fine), transcript (unofficial is fine), and names and contact numbers of three references to Tomas Höök (thook@purdue.edu; 765-496-6799; www.ag.purdue.edu/fnr/pages/thook.aspx).

For more details please contact:
Tomas Höök
thook@purdue.edu

Purdue University is an affirmative action equal opportunity employer.

Ph.D. Graduate Student Opportunity at Dartmouth

2009-10-21T11:10:00.000-07:00

The Graduate Program in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at Dartmouth College invites applications from prospective Ph.D. students interested in ecology and evolution in aquatic ecosystems. I am especially interested in students who want to study linkages between species and ecosystem processes (http://www.dartmouth.edu/~btaylor/). Generous financial support is available in the form of a Dartmouth Fellowship, health care, and a substantial yearly discretionary fund for research and travel that are guaranteed for 5 years. Applicants with excellent records and who demonstrate financial need are also eligible for a U.S. Department of Education Graduate Assistance in Areas of National Need (GAANN) Fellowship http://www.dartmouth.edu/~gradstdy/GAANNAWD.html. Detailed information about the program, and access to online applications, are available at http://www.dartmouth.edu/~biology/graduate/eeb/

Students interested in alpine or polar ecosystems (e.g., Alaska, Greenland, Iceland) may also be admitted and participate in a NSF IGERT training grant with Dartmouth and the Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory (http://www.crrel.usace.army.mil/). More information on this program is available at http://www.dartmouth.edu/~igert/

For further information send a 1) two page letter articulating your research interests, 2) your CV, 3) the names and contact information for 3 references, 4) and a phone number to Brad Taylor (brad.taylor@dartmouth.edu), Department of Biological Sciences, Gilman Life Science Laboratories, Hanover, NH 03755. Completed applications will be considered beginning December 1st. Promising applicants will be hosted for interviews in mid January.

Dartmouth is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and encourages applications from women and members of minority groups.

Graduate Student Assistantships – Marine Biogeochemistry/Microbial Ecology

2009-10-21T11:09:00.000-07:00

Research assistantships with full stipends and tuition waivers are available immediately for students interested in pursuing an M.S. or Ph.D. degree in Marine Sciences. Students will be expected to carry out thesis research within the framework of several ongoing NSF-funded projects that focus on the marine biogeochemistry and microbial ecology of organic sulfur compounds including the widespread algal osmolyte, dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) and its climate-relevant degradation product, dimethylsulfide (DMS). Opportunities for participation in oceanographic research cruises will be available. Laboratory work will be carried out at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab (www.disl.org) located directly on the Gulf of Mexico at the mouth of Mobile Bay.

Students with strong backgrounds in the natural sciences and with a strong motivation to succeed in research should contact Ron Kiene, Department of Marine Sciences, University of South Alabama, LSCB 25, Mobile, Alabama, e-mail Rkiene@jaguar1.usouthal.edu for more information.

Graduate Assistantship/Invasive quagga mussels in the arid southwest

2009-10-21T11:08:00.002-07:00

An assistantship towards a Master degree of Public Health (MPH) is available in the Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV). The candidate will work with federal, state, and local government agencies, as well as other research teams to monitor the life histories of quagga mussel (Dreissena bugensis) adults and veligers in Lake Mead and address the key environmental factors affecting these invasive mussels in this largest reservoir in the US (by volume). Invasive quagga mussels were discovered in Lake Mead on January 6, 2007. It is the first known occurrence of the dreissenid species in the western United States. Now it has been found in many ecosystems in the arid southwest region.

The final candidate needs to do field work to collect water and sediment samples in Lake Mead, summarize water quality data, enumerate quagga mussel veligers and adults, identify and count benthic samples, present research results in interagency meetings, and draft report to funding agencies. The funding is available for 2 years. Minimum requirements include 1) a Bachelor’s degree in Ecology, Biology, Limnology, Chemistry, Environmental Sciences, or related field; 2) good physical condition; 3) safe driving history; 4) self-motivated personality; 5) working independently and interactively with a multidisciplinary team.

The position starts from January 2010 depending on the availability of qualified applicant. Interested students should send CV, letter describing their qualifications, contact list of three references, and unofficial transcripts to Dr. David Wong (David.Wong@unlv.edu), Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Nevada at Las Vegas, 4505 Maryland Parkway Box 453064, Las Vegas NV 89154 (Tel: 702-895-2446/Fax: 702-895-5166). Electronic submission is preferred. The due date for application is December 7, 2009. More information about graduate studies at UNLV can be found at http://graduatecollege.unlv.edu/.

Research Assistantship, Coastal Oceanography and Engineering

2009-10-21T11:08:00.001-07:00

The Skidaway Institute of Oceanography and the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) announce the availability of funds for two students to join their Joint Program in Coastal Science and Engineering (http://www.gtsav.gatech.edu/go/cse). This program, a collaborative effort between Skidaway and Georgia Tech’s Civil and Environmental Engineering program in Savannah, Georgia, focuses on issues and problems that lie at the intersection of science and engineering in coastal and ocean environments. It includes numerous courses jointly taught by Skidaway and GT faculty members, and field experiences on Skidaway’s R/V Savannah, a 29 m UNOLS-fleet vessel.

The available support is for graduate students (M.S. or Ph.D.) admitted to Georgia Tech’s School of Civil and Environmental Engineering (see grad.gatech.edu for application instructions). Students may choose the Environmental Fluid Mechanics and Water Resources (EFMWR) or Environmental Engineering tracks. Funding is available as early as January 2010 to work with a Skidaway investigator on the BOTTOMS-UP benthic observation project (http://www.skio.usg.edu/?p=research/phy/bottomsup). This is a multidisciplinary project, so students with interest in biological, chemical, and physical process-related issues, or a combination, are all encouraged to apply.

Please contact:
Dr. Paul Work, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Tech (paul.work@gatech.edu) for application and academic program information, or
Dr. William Savidge, Skidaway Institute of Oceanography (William.savidge@skio.usg.edu) for more information about the BOTTOMS-UP program and other research opportunities at Skidaway Institute of Oceanography.

Postdoctoral Position in Biogeochemistry of marine algae - The Geology and Ecology Units at the University of Oviedo, in Oviedo, Northwest Spain

2009-10-08T14:02:00.000-07:00

The Geology and Ecology Units at the University of Oviedo, in Oviedo, Northwest Spain, invite applications for a Postdoctoral Associate to conduct research on carbon acquisition strategies of marine algae, as part of a larger EC-funded project assessing precedents of algal adaptation to atmospheric CO2 levels in the geological record. The position is a 3 year appointment. The research will be jointly conducted between the marine ecology unit in biological sciences and the geochemistry unit in the geological science department; these groups have a strong marine ecology program, including one of the longest monthly time series of phytoplankton and nutrient monitoring (in the Bay of Biscay), and strong expertise in low temperature geochemistry. A part time laboratory technician will be available to assist in culture maintenance.

The successful candidate must hold a PhD in oceanography or related biological sciences at the time of appointment, and have several years experience in the controlled laboratory culture of marine algae such as coccolithophorids or diatoms and characterization of their growth rates and metabolism. The position, available 1 December 2009, offers competitive salary, 1 month vacation, and free health care for the candidate and his/her family in the public health care system. The position is open to candidates of all nationalities; hire of a candidate from non-EU country may entail a 1-2 month delay in start date pending approval of work permit. The Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Oviedo is a small city of 200,000 with historic pedestrian only city center and classic cultural offerings (opera, orchestra). The location is ideal for those interested in active outdoor lifestyle, only 30 km from the coast (beaches, surfing) and 45 km from the Cantabrian mountains (hiking/backpacking, cycling, rockclimbing).

To apply, please send a current CV and brief description of your experience and research interests to Heather Stoll (hstoll@geol.uniovi.es).

Research Associate, Aquatic Biogeochemistry

2009-10-08T14:01:00.002-07:00

A research associate position in aquatic biogeochemistry is available beginning Spring 2010 in Ohio State University’s Aquatic Ecology Laboratory. The successful individual will assist in the collection and preparation of samples for various analyses including natural isotopic abundances (13C, 15N, D and 14C) of organic and inorganic materials. Experience with the operation and maintenance of vacuum extraction lines, stable isotope ratio mass spectrometry and/or accelerator mass spectrometric techniques is desirable. Familiarity with other standard analytical techniques (e.g., nutrients, dissolved and particulate organic C, N and P, dissolved oxygen and CO2, alkalinity, etc.) in freshwater and marine systems, as well as with organic separations and characterization and/or microbial ecological methods, is desirable. The position also requires extensive fieldwork using small boats in rivers and estuaries, as well as occasionally on ships in coastal ocean waters for up to 2-3 weeks at a time. The successful individual will ideally possess an undergraduate degree in chemistry or biology, and/or a master's degree in some area of aquatic or marine biogeochemistry or geochemistry. Previous lab and fieldwork experience, including small boat handling, is considered an asset.

This position will be filled for a minimum of 3 years. Starting pay will be commensurate with the level of experience, and full health and retirement benefits are included.

Interested individuals should email a letter of interest and experience, curriculum vitae, and contact information including e-mail addresses and phone numbers for three references by November 17, 2009 to:

Dr. James Bauer
Aquatic Ecology Laboratory
Department of Evolution, Ecology and Organismal Biology
Ohio State University
1314 Kinnear Road
Columbus, OH 43212
Email: bauer.362@osu.edu

Postdoctoral Fellow, Aquatic Biogeochemistry

2009-10-08T14:01:00.001-07:00

POSTDOCTORAL POSITION IN AQUATIC BIOGEOCHEMISTRY, OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY. Applicants are sought for a 1-2 year postdoctoral fellowship beginning spring 2010 in the general area of aquatic biogeochemistry and land-aquatic interactions in freshwater and marine systems. Areas of specialization could include major elemental cycles, organic and isotope biogeochemistry, microbial ecology, or aquatic food webs. Experience in one or more of the following is desirable: natural abundance isotopic techniques (13C, 15N, D, 14C), organic matter characterization (e.g., GC-MS, NMR, HPLC, etc.), microbial ecological approaches, and/or ecology of lower food webs. Applicants should email their CV, a one-page statement of research interests, experience and future research goals, and contact information for three references to Dr. Jim Bauer, Aquatic Ecology Laboratory, Department of Evolution, Ecology and Organismal Biology, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43212 at bauer.362@osu.edu by November 10, 2009.

Postdoctoral Fellowship in Freshwater Biology

2009-10-08T13:59:00.002-07:00

The Department of Biology is offering one to two 12-16 month postdoctoral fellowships in freshwater biology, with a compulsory start date anytime during 2009. We are looking for highly qualified non-Swedish applicants within the field of freshwater biology, whose research fits in well with ongoing research at the Department. The applicant will have access to a newly-built, 250 m2 aquarium facility, equipped with aquaria and replicate artificial streams. Research at the Department is focused on freshwater biology and conservation biology in forest landscapes. Faculty are currently studying questions concerning fragmented landscapes, interactions between the riparian zone and stream communities, fish migrations, fish passage and stocking problems associated with stream regulation, rare species (river pearl mussel), winter ecology of fish, ecophysiology of fish and hydrological restoration. Some of the faculty participate in a multidisciplinary research group together with social scientists and work on questions of sustainability and resource management in streams. Much of Biology’s research is done in cooperation with external agencies, for example the county boards, Highway Administration, Forestry Board, hydropower companies, etc. We also cooperate with Norwegian agencies such as NINA and the University College of Hedmark.

The applicant is requested to submit a CV, a list of publications, a description of research interests, a brief description of what you would like to work with at Karlstad University and three letters of reference. Application deadline is 21 October 2009 but late applications may be considered if a suitable candidate is not found. All application materials can be sent to Larry Greenberg, Dept of Biology, Karlstad University, S-651 88, Karlstad, Sweden or sent via e-mail to Larry.Greenberg@kau.se. The fellowship pays the equivalent of 20 000 Swedish crowns per month tax-free, the total amount dependent upon the duration of the fellowship (12-16 months). For further information contact Larry Greenberg at the above e-mail address or at the telephone number +46-54-7001543.

Post Doc Position in Physical Limnology/Air-Sea Interactions

2009-10-08T13:59:00.001-07:00

A position at the Postdoctoral level is available at the University of California, Santa Barbara, in physical limnology/air-sea interactions to study the physics of gas exchange at the air-water interface. Study sites include lakes in the arctic, temperate zone, and tropics. The position is full time with a salary of $44,000 to $55,000, depending on experience. The initial appointment is for 1-year on the multiyear project; continuation beyond one year will be based on performance and availability of funding. Applicants must have an earned Ph.D. in physical limnology, physical oceanography, boundary layer meteorology, or environmental engineering with demonstrated experience in analysis and interpretation of observational data and a record of communicating research results. As the research is in part field-oriented, the candidate should have proven ability to conduct research successfully under arduous field conditions. Experience in modeling and working as part of an interdisciplinary team are also desirable. The department is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community through research, teaching, and service. Apply by October 15, 2009, for primary consideration; however, position will remain open until filled. Please send a cover letter describing your research interests and experience, a current resume and names of three referees to: Professor Sally MacIntyre, email: sally@icess.ucsb.edu. An Equal Opportunity/ Affirmative Action Employer.

Five graduate student assistantships in ecological stoichiometry of detrital food webs

2009-09-07T15:37:00.000-07:00

Five graduate student assistantships (3 Ph.D. and 2 M.S.) are available as part of a newly funded project examining the responses of detritus-based stream food webs to concentrations and ratios of dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus. Two Ph.D. positions will be based at the University of Georgia and will focus on detrital carbon dynamics and responses of predatory salamanders, respectively. A third Ph.D. position will be based at the University of Alabama and will examine macroinvertebrate food web responses. Both M.S. positions will be based at Coastal Carolina University and will focus on microbial responses to N:P gradients using field and laboratory experiments. All fieldwork will be based at the Coweeta Long term Ecological Research site in Otto, North Carolina. We are looking for students with a holistic view of ecological ramifications of nutrient enrichment, strong interest in integrating a stoichiometric perspective across taxonomic groups, significant research experience and demonstrated communication skills. The positions will start in Summer or Fall 2010, with microbial positions starting as early as January 2010. The successful candidates will receive full tuition waivers and competitive stipends. For more information, contact Amy Rosemond (rosemond@uga.edu) or John Maerz (jmaerz@warnell.uga.edu) for the UGA positions, Jon Benstead (jbenstead@bama.ua.edu) for the UA position, or Vlad Gulis (vgulis@coastal.edu) for the two CCU positions.

Graduate Student Position in Invasive Ascidian Tunicate Research

2009-09-07T15:35:00.000-07:00

A position is available immediately for a graduate student to conduct thesis research on the population ecology and genetics of invasive ascidian tunicates in Newfoundland coastal waters. The student will conduct field work on the population dynamics of invasive ascidians using a variety of molecular techniques, such as DNA isolation, polymerase chain reaction, and DNA sequencing and sequence analysis, to develop species-specific molecular probes and quantitative PCR assays for native and invasive ascidians. While we are most interested in candidates for the Ph.D. degree, we will consider exceptional candidates at the M.Sc. level as well. An MSc is required for the Ph.D. position in either Biology, Marine Biology, Biological Oceanography, Ecology, Molecular Biology or Genetics. The students will join a research team working on the genetics and population dynamics of invasive ascidians in Newfoundland. This work is highly relevant to scientific and management concerns of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada and will be done in collaboration with DFO scientists.

Two years ago, we discovered several species of invasive ascidians living in several Newfoundland harbours. Our continuing survey work is adding to our knowledge of the geographic distribution of these species on the Newfoundland coast. Invasive ascidians are a major threat to species diversity globally and to the economic viability of aquaculture farms both in Canada and abroad. Our work has resulted in the first report of invasive ascidians in Newfoundland, and one of our objectives is to obtain the scientific knowledge required to anticipate the potential for further invasion and to know when and where to apply mitigation measures.

The Ocean Sciences Centre of Memorial University of Newfoundland is located on the open coast of the North Atlantic Ocean, 10 km from main campus. The OSC consists of approximately 125 faculty, students and staff housed in three research buildings. There are more than 50 graduate students conducting thesis research at the OSC. For more information on the OSC please click on . Memorial University is located in St. John's, the provincial capital. St. John's is a vibrant city with a metropolitan population of ca. 200,000 and an exciting cultural and civic life. The climate is cool maritime, strongly influenced by the Labrador Current, which flows just offshore. Memorial University, the largest post-secondary institution in Canada east of Montreal, has an international student body of > 15,000 students and ca. 2,000 graduate students. For more information on Memorial Univeristy and St. John's, please click on .

Please send a letter of interest and your curriculum vitae, preferably via email, to the following address to indicate your interest in either of these positions.

Dr. Don Deibel
Ocean Sciences Centre
Memorial University
St. John's, Newfoundland A1C 5S7

PhD researcher in Climate modeling on orbital timescales (1,0 fte)

2009-07-12T16:39:00.000-07:00

The Faculty of Geosciences offers education and research concerning the geosphere, biosphere, atmosphere and anthroposphere. With a population of 2200 students (BSc and MSc) and 575 staff, the faculty is a strong and challenging organisation. The Faculty is organised in four Departments: Innovation and Environmental Sciences, Earth Sciences, Physical Geography, and Human Geography and Urban and Regional Planning.

Currently, we are looking to fill the following position in a joint project between the Departments of Physical Geography and Earth Sciences:

PhD researcher in Climate modeling on orbital timescales (1,0 fte)

Job description

In this project we aim to advance our understanding of the mechanisms of orbital climate forcing, going from geological timescales to causal links.

Many climate records reflect the principal orbital cycles, which are associated with variations in the eccentricity of the Earth's orbit, the angle between the orbital plane and the equator (obliquity) and the date of perihelion (precession). These cycles are routinely applied to construct so-called astronomical timescales for the late Neogene (i.e. the last 14 million years). In this project we will perform climate model experiments in order to test different hypotheses on the causal links between astronomical forcing and climate signals in sedimentary records.

Hypothesized links are tropical monsoons, mid-latitude storm tracks and the large-scale ocean circulation. We will use state-of-the-art climate models, including a representation of the terrestrial biosphere and coupled off-line to a hydrological model of river discharge. Model results will be compared to data in collaboration with another PhD student who works in a matching project, which is part of the 7th EU framework ITN-GTSnext program. There will be a close collaboration with the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI) for the modelling work.

The project involves scientists at Utrecht University, KNMI, University of Amsterdam, and various European research groups. Funding is provided by the Focus and Mass program of the Faculty of Geosciences, Utrecht University.

Qualifications

We are looking for a highly motivated individual with a MSc or equivalent degree in Climate or Atmospheric Sciences, Physical Oceanography, Physical Geography, Physics, Mathematics or related field. Experience, or a strong interest, in climate modeling and programming on UNIX-based computer systems is desirable. He/she communicates easily in English, both verbally and in writing, and has an interest in interdisciplinary research.

Terms of employment

We offer a PhD position (1,0 fte) with an initial 12 month contract. After a positive evaluation this contract can be extended to a maximum of 36 more months (a total of four years maximum) and with the specific intent that it results in a doctorate within this period. The salary for a full time appointment starts at € 2,042 and increases to € 2,612 gross per month in the fourth year of the appointment.

The salary will be supplemented by a holiday allowance of 8% per year and a year-end bonus of 8.3%.

In addition we also offer a pension scheme and flexible employment conditions. Conditions are based on the Collective Labour Agreement of the Dutch Universities.

Further details

For further details contact Prof Dr Nanne Weber at weber@geo.uu.nl.

You may also wish to visit the websites of Utrecht University's Institutes of Physical Geography and Earth Sciences: http://www.geo.uu.nl/pgri and http://www.geo.uu.nl/ivau.

How to apply

Applications, including a motivation for this position, a curriculum vitae and the names and contact details of two referees (with email addresses) should be submitted to:

Faculty of Geosciences,
Personnel Department,
P.O. Box 80.115,
3508 TC Utrecht, the Netherlands
or submitted by e-mail to: PenO@geo.uu.nl

Please mention vacancy number 72148 in all communications.

Applications are accepted until the position is filled, but we prefer to receive your application before August 23, 2009. We seek to appoint before November 1, 2009.

Two PhD positions:Electron transfer processes in anoxic aquifers

2009-07-12T16:38:00.001-07:00

The Department of Hydrology at the University of Bayreuth offers two PhD Position for three years within the framework of the DFG Research Unit 580 "Electron Transfer Processes in Anoxic Aquifers". The position is open beginning this summer/autumn.

The dissertation projects focus on the reactivity of iron hydroxides in sulfidic ground waters, their role in the anaerobic sulphur cycle, and the linkage between the involved biogeochemical processes. The work comprises experiments in the laboratory and in the field. Further information about the objectives of the two dissertation projects (SP KNO and SP PEI) and Research Unit 580 can be found at http://www.bayceer.uni-bayreuth.de/fg_ct/.

We are seeking candidates with a background in environmental sciences or geosciences with experience in the field of experimental aquatic geochemistry and mineralogy either in the laboratory or in the field. The candidate should have an interest in teamwork within an interdisciplinary group of researchers that focuses on the identification of biogeochemical processes in ground water. Experience in the use of spectroscopic tools, microscopy, stable isotopes, or modelling of reactive transport is of advantage. Prerequisite for the position is an excellent diploma/master degree.

Applications should include a CV, transcripts/certificates, names of referees and a statement of the candidate´s motivation for the application. They should be sent to Dr. Klaus-Holger Knorr or Prof. Dr. Stefan Peiffer, Department of Hydrology, University of Bayreuth, D-95440 Bayreuth.

The position remains open until filled.

PhD position Biogeochemical Ocean Modeling

2009-07-08T23:53:00.000-07:00

The Faculty of Geosciences, Utrecht University invites applicants for the following position:

PhD researcher in Biogeochemical Ocean Modeling (1,0 fte)

Job description:

The PhD-researcher will be employed in a project on:

Modeling Ocean Biogeochemistry in the mid-Cretaceous: reconstructing the nutrient-biosphere-climate link

Massive amounts of organic matter were buried in ocean sediments during mid-Cretaceous Oceanic Anoxic Events (OAEs). As yet, a quantitative understanding of the mechanisms and feedbacks responsible for the perturbation of the oxygen, carbon and nutrient cycles around OAEs is still lacking. In this project, general circulation modeling for the global ocean will be used to elucidate the triggers for global ocean anoxia during the Cenomanian/Turonian (C/T) boundary event (~94 Myrs BP). In particular, the role of changes in riverine inputs and upwelling intensity in determining nutrient availability and oxygen conditions in the Atlantic ocean will be addressed.

Qualifications

We are looking for a highly motivated individual with an MSc or equivalent degree in Geosciences, Oceanography, Environmental Sciences or a related field. Experience, or a strong interest in biogeochemistry and modeling is desirable. He/she should communicate easily in English, both verbally and in writing.

Terms of employment

Successful candidates will be offered a full-time PhD position for a period of four years, contingent on a (yearly) satisfactory performance, and with the specific intent that it results in a doctorate within this period. Conditions are based on the Collective Labour Agreement of the Dutch Universities. The gross monthly salary starts at € 2,042.- in the first year and increases to € 2,612.- in the fourth year, and is supplemented by a holiday allowance of 8% per year and a year-end bonus of 8.3%. We also offer a pension scheme, a health insurance allowance and flexible employment conditions.

For further details contact Dr Caroline Slomp at slomp@geo.uu.nl or 0031-30-2535514

You may also wish to visit the website of the Faculty of Geosciences: http://www.geo.uu.nl/ and the Geochemistry group: http://www.geo.uu.nl/Research/Geochemistry/

How to apply

Applications, including a statement of your research interests, a curriculum vitae, and the names and contact addresses of two referees (with e-mail addresses), should be sent to: Faculty of Geosciences, Personnel Department
P.O. Box 80.115
3508 TC Utrecht
The Netherlands

or submitted by e-mail to: PenO@geo.uu.nl.

Applications are accepted until the position is filled, but we prefer to receive your application before August 24, 2009. We seek to appoint before November 1, 2009.

Please, mention where you originally saw our advertisement and quote the vacancy number 72149 in all communications.

PhD student Limnology/Biogeochemistry

2009-07-03T14:54:00.000-07:00

PhD position in limnology, aquatic biogeochemistry At the Department of Ecology and Evolution at the Evolutionary Biology Centre, in collaboration with the Department of Water and Environmental Studies, Linköping University, Sweden, and the Institute for Resources, Environment and Sustainability, University of British Columbia, Canada.

The successful applicant will work within a project about natural halogenation of aquatic organic matter and its possible consequences for the recalcitrance of organic matter. There is increasing evidence of wide spread natural formation of halogenated organic matter in terrestrial and marine environments, but freshwaters environments are poorly understood in this regard. Further, theoretical knowledge about chlorination processes suggest that some of the halogenated organic material can become more resistant to degradation. Hence, halogenation could be one key to increase our understanding of organic matter recalcitrance and long term preservation in sediments which is of importance for the global carbon cycle. The project includes close collaboration with the Department of Water and Environmental Studies, Linköping University, and the Institute for Resources, Environment and Sustainability, University of British Columbia, Canada, and will address questions regarding the presence and formation/degradation rates of organohalogens in lake water and sediment, as well as how these processes affect organic matter degradation rates.

A suitable background is a Bachelor of Science or Master of Science degree in biology, chemistry, geosciences or a related subject. Experiences in one or several of the following fields (in alphabetical order) can be very suitable: analytical inorganic or organic chemistry, aquatic microbiology, biochemistry, limnology, and organic geochemistry. Experiences of various analytical techniques and study
designs is also valuable.

For more detailed information, see http://www.personalavd.uu.se/ledigaplatser/1796dorand_en g.html, or contact Prof. Lars Tranvik, phone +46 18 471 2722, e-mail: lars.tranvik@ebc.uu.se., Dr. David Bastviken, e-mail: david.bastviken@geo.su.se, Prof. Gunilla Öberg, e- mail: goberg@ires.ubc.ca.

We are looking forward to receive your application by August 27, 2009 marked UFV-PA 2009/1796, to the Registrar´s Office, Uppsala University, Box 256, 751 05 Uppsala, fax + 46 18 471 2000 or e-mail registrator@uu.se . Applicants who use fax or e-mail must follow up by sending in original documents no later than a week after the application deadline. The application should include a letter which describes yourself and your research interests, a CV, copies of your exams, degrees and grades, and - if relevant - a copy of your Masters thesis, diploma projects or equivalent. Contact data to reference persons shall be included. Other relevant
material can also be included.

Graduate Student Assistant ship - wetlands and mercury

2009-07-03T14:53:00.002-07:00

Our lab’s research focuses on environmental controls regulating the formation and bioaccumulation of methylmercury (MeHg) in prairie wetlands. Water MeHg concentrations can be extremely high in some Type 3 wetland ponds in Saskatchewan and preliminary data suggest that there may be an influence of land use type on MeHg concentrations in water. Wetlands surrounded by land that has been converted to natural grasslands tend to have elevated concentrations of MeHg compared water in wetlands that are cultivated by traditional farming methods. We have also observed very high concentrations of MeHg in water from wetlands ponds surrounded by organically farmed areas. I currently have 1-2 graduate student positions at the M.Sc. or Ph.D. levels available in a new ecosystem-level research initiative examining ecological controls on methylmercury production in prairie wetlands. This position involves both laboratory studies at the University of Regina and field work at the St. Denis National Wildlife Area 40 km east of Saskatoon. I am looking for bright, independent, highly motivated students with a passion for environmental research. Applicants should have a strong background in natural science and strong quantitative skills. Successful applicants will be motivated, have well-developed writing and communication skills, strong work ethics, and the ability to work cooperatively in a team setting. Field and laboratory experience is preferred. Funding will come from a combination of teaching and research assistantships.

To apply, please send a CV to Britt Hall: britt.hall@uregina.ca

PhD opportunity in lake sedimentology/geochemistry

2009-07-03T14:53:00.001-07:00

We are seeking for an excellent postgraduate student in order to lead an exciting PhD projet on great perialpine lakes biogeochemistry. This project is part of a pluridisciplinar research program involving sedimentologists, biologists and ecologists in a federative approach aiming at better understanding the effect of three main human perturbations on perialpine lake ecosystems : fish introduction, nutrient pollution, climatic change. This program is founded by the French National Research Agency (ANR).

The PhD project will consist in studying the evolution of phosphorus (P) and carbon (C) biogeochemical cycles over the last 150 years in the 4 greatest French perialpine lakes (Annecy, Bourget, Leman, Aiguebelette). High resolution sedimentological and geochemical methods will be applied to reconstruct such evolutions (cf. Giguet-Covex et al., JOPL 2009, DOI 10.1007/s10933-009-9324-9 for details).

The successful applicant should have a MSc in geoscience, biology or ecology with excellent quotations. He/She must be autonomous to lead his/her research project and have skills in geochemistry. A strong interest in pluridisciplinar work is needed.

The salary is about 1300 €/ month (incl. health insurance), with possiblities to give additionnal courses at the university.

Applications must be addressed to Fabien Arnaud (fabien.arnaud@univ-savoie.fr ; +33 (0)4 79 75 94 17), the absolute deadline is fixed on July 15th 2009.

The successful applicant will work both at EDYTEM (CNRS / Université de Savoie) and CARRTEL (INRA / Université de Savoie), two nationnally recognised laboratories which are leaders in France for paleolimnology and limnology, respectively. Most of the work will take place at Le Bourget du Lac, Savoie, France at the footstep of French northern Alps. Basis in French language speaking are required, but help may eventually be given to follow practice courses.

Jobs in Guam for Filipinos

2009-07-03T04:14:00.000-07:00

Thousands of Filipino workers could be hired in the construction of new military bases on the US territory of Guam, the island's governor said during a visit to the Philippines.

Guam will be hiring between 10,000 and 15,000 workers to support the US military buildup, including the relocation of 8,000 Marines and their families from Okinawa over the next few years, Gov. Felix Camacho told reporters in Manila on Tuesday.

He said he expected skilled Filipino workers to fill job demands that cannot be met by local labor alone.

"It is not exclusive but the likelihood is that most will be from the Philippines," Camacho said. Chinese workers will not be hired because of security concerns related to work on military bases, he said.

The buildup will cost at least $15 billion. Japan is covering $6 billion of the bill.

US Rep. Neil Abercrombie of Hawaii said last week that foreign workers won't be allowed to do more than 30 percent of the work on the projects.

The 2010 National Defense Authorization Act requires the minimum wage for all Guam construction projects be at the prevailing wage level for similar work in Hawaii, he said.

Legal Governance PhD Scholarship

2009-06-25T21:38:00.000-07:00

Governance Concentration of Research Excellence (CORE) Macquarie Law School, Macquarie University, Sydney

Closing date: 14 August 2009

Colonisation and Migration in the Pacific

The Legal Governance Concentration of Research Excellence (CORE) in Macquarie Law School, Macquarie University, is offering a full time PhD Scholarship investigating the role of legal and constitutional arrangements in shaping migration in the Pacific region. The successful applicant will join an innovative team of researchers at Macquarie Law School who are undertaking inter-disciplinary research on contemporary issues of legal governance.

Migration is a phenomenon of great importance to the Pacific region: proportionate to the size of their home populations, no other region of the world has experienced larger outflows of people. This project will examine the links between Pacific migration and colonisation, which has left a complex legacy of legal and political associations in the Pacific. As the process of decolonisation has unfolded, colonial powers (such as Australia, France, New Zealand, UK and US) have made different arrangements for the governance of Pacific territories. This project will examine the impact of these legal and constitutional arrangements on migration within the Pacific, and between Pacific Island Countries and the Pacific Rim, during critical periods of colonisation and
decolonisation.

For further information and discussion regarding the PhD project, candidates are encouraged to contact the supervisor Professor Brian Opeskin (Director of the Legal Governance CORE): telephone: +61 2 9850 7074; email: brian.opeskin@ mq.edu.au.

Applicants should have completed a four-year undergraduate degree in the humanities, social sciences or creative arts with first-class honours (law, Pacific history, migration, colonialism, or a combination of these areas), or demonstrate equivalent research qualifications, such as a Master degree with a substantial research component.

The scholarship pays a living allowance currently $20,427 per annum tax exempt (2009), and the tenure is 3.5 years full time, subject to satisfactory progress. Tuition fees will be funded for the scholarship tenure. Additional support for projects and conference travel will be available from the Faculty.

Application forms, and conditions for MQRES awards, are available from the Higher Degree Research Office, telephone +61(02) 9850 7987, e-mail: hdrschol@vc. mq.edu.au, or downloaded from our website: http://www.research .mq.edu.au/ students/ scholarships/ pages/Law/

Applications should be forwarded to:
The Scholarship Officer
The Research Hub
Level 3, C5C East
Macquarie University NSW 2109
AUSTRALIA