Friday, March 31, 2017

AgroEcology Lab Research Position

Alumni Celebration - Seniors Welcome

Graduating students are invited to this excellent alumni dinner. And we can celebrate Dr. Yonkos for his teaching aware and our ENST undergrads who made the runner-up category!!!



All graduating students should have received a hard copy of the attached invitation.  If you could ask your student services folks to remind graduating students – graduate students and undergraduates – to to respond to me by close of business Wednesday, March 29, it would be greatly appreciated. gyeiser@umd.edu or 301-405-2434

Email reservations are fine:  
Name, Department/major, regular or vegetarian meal. 

If you are able to attend as a guest of Dean Beyrouty, please let me know by close of business Wednesday, March 29.  If you are bringing additional guests, a check for $45/person payable to the AGNR Alumni Chapter can be brought to me in 1104 Symons or to the Riggs Center on April 6th.

Thank you for your support of this program.

I look forward to an evening of fellowship and recognition.

Gail

Congratulations!
We look forward to an evening of celebration, recognition and fellowship.

Outstanding Student –  2 year program
Lillian (Lilli) Kahl
Sustainable Agriculture

Outstanding Student – 4 year program
Mason Grahame
Agricultural and Resource Economics

Outstanding Graduate Student – M.S.
Danielle (Dani) Weissman
Plant Sciences and Landscape Architecture

Outstanding Graduate Student – Ph.D.
Serajus Salaheen
Animal and Avian Sciences

Excellence in Instruction
Lance Yonkos
Environmental Science and Technology

Excellence in Extension
Haylee Staruk
Food Supplement Nutrition Education

Excellence in Research
Daniel Nelson
Veterinary Medicine

Outstanding Alumnus – Early Career
Jeffrey Moore ‘07
Nutrition and Food Science

Outstanding Alumnus
Kenneth M. “Kenny” Bounds ’77
Agronomy/Soils


Honorable Mention Undergraduate and Graduate Students

Tessa Cavanaugh, Allie Hosmer, Abhinav Mishra, Elizabeth O’Keefe,
Megan Saunders,  Meg Smolinski, James Thomas, Jun Zhang

Advising Notice

The final list of students matched up to their advisor is attached. Reach out to your advisor and try to meet with them 5-7 days prior to your registration date and time (check Testudo for your that date/time if needed). Please make sure to bring your: 1.GenEd/CORE sheets filled out, 2.curriculum sheet filled out, 3.Planning Grid filled out, and 4.Student Questionnaire filled out (if you didn't submit one already). All these resources can be found here: http://enst.umd.edu/undergraduate/advising. Printing your unofficial UMD transcript from Testudo may help you fill out these forms. Expect to spend several hours filling out these documents and preparing for your advising meeting then expect to spend 30 minutes with your advisor during your meeting. Do not wait until your registration date! 

April 5 is the last day to drop a course with a W on your transcript. If you aren't sure if you should drop a course or keep it, think about this: a GPA of 2.0 or better needs to be maintained each semester, a W looks better on your transcripts than a D or an F. If you drop a course, think about when you plan to retake that class. Please reach out to your advisor for advice as well!

Helpful resources: Some commonly asked questions are on the blog www.enstadvising.blogspot.com Advising. Also check out our website www.enst.umd.edu > Undergrad. The undergrad catalog is a helpful and searchable tool to show you policies you may want to review: http://catalogundergraduate.umd.edu/catalog/index.cfm

Scholarships for APLU university students to attend 2017 summer program at University of Guadalajara

Scholarships for APLU university students to attend 2017 summer program at University of Guadalajara

APLU has long been interested in increasing study abroad to Mexico. We believe certain universities/areas of Mexico should attract greater numbers of U.S. and Canadian students given the strong ties to key Mexican universities, the language-learning opportunity those universities offer, and the relatively low living and educational costs.

I am writing to inform you about a particularly interesting opportunity for study abroad at the University of Guadalajara, a very active member of APLU. The University of Guadalajara is offering 100 scholarships exclusively for students at other APLU member universities to attend a summer study abroad program on their campus.  The minimum number to operate the program is 100 and the maximum enrollment is 200.

The scholarships are for both undergraduate and graduate students to attend their study abroad program running from June 12 – July 23, 2017.   The first 100 students from APLU institutions to enroll will be eligible for a scholarship covering half of the full cost of the program.  With this scholarship, the cost would be $1,250, covering tuition, room, board, as well as transportation to and from the airport in Guadalajara. 

The program will have a significant Spanish language component taught at several levels as needed along with classes on Mexican history and culture. Students who successfully complete the program, which include 80 hours of classroom instruction, will earn six credit hours. Awarded credits will be available on a University of Guadalajara transcript but of course credit transfer decisions back to the student’s home university are made by that university.

We understand that many of you have study abroad programs and planning is well underway for the summer of 2017.  However, we want to make you aware of this offer from your fellow APLU member, the University of Guadalajara. The program is another way of promoting closer relationships among Mexican, U.S., and Canadian universities.

Of course, universities must consider security for study aboard programs.  In the case of Mexico, it is appropriate to look at regions within the country by reviewing the U.S. State Department information and other sources.  The University of Guadalajara indicates that they “…. have not had any incidents among our national and international students. At their arrival, national and international students are also given an informative talk regarding migration processes, basic safety precautions, and local transportation.”

The contact person for the program at the University of Guadalajara is:

Alonso Ramírez Ruíz
Phone: [52] (33) 3630 9890 ext. 12905

Marine Conservation Internship

-- SPIN ID:                     11850
-- Opportunity Title:           Marine Policy Internship
-- Sponsor:                     Marine Conservation Biology Institute
-- Sponsor Number:
-- Deadline Date:

        ** Contact Telephone :          202-546-5346
        ** Contact Email :              michael.gravitz@marine-conservation.org
        ** Sponsor Website :            http://www.marine-conservation.org/
        ** Program URL :                https://marine-conservation.org/who-we-are/jobs/internships/
        ** Synopsis :           <p>Marine Conservation Institute&rsquo;s internship program provides motivated and academically-promising students an opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world arena. During their internship, students work closely with science and policy staff on cutting edge issues in marine conservation biology and ocean policy. Most of the internship opportunities are geared towards graduate students or students who have recently completed graduate degrees, although we have on occasion developed opportunities for undergraduates to work on pressing marine conservation issues.

Anacostia Watershed Society Internships


The Anacostia Watershed Society (AWS) is looking for environmental science (and related disciplines) students for its 2017 Summer River Restoration Internship program (May-August approximately). This is a great opportunity to get students involved in real world watershed stewardship issues such as stormwater management, wetland restoration, reforestation, arboriculture, SAV propagation, environmental monitoring, invasive plant management, outdoor recreation and environmental education. The internship will be based in Bladensburg, MD with minimal travel to sites in Prince George's county and the District of Columbia. 

GEOG Summer 2017 Course Information

Coordinator - (Animal Sciences/Environmental Science)

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE AND NATURAL RESOURCES
UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND EXTENSION

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT

Title: Coordinator
Functional Title: Coordinator - (Animal Sciences/Envir)
Position Number: 122873
Category Status: Exempt Contingent Category 2
Unit: AGNR-UME-4-H Youth Development

Location: The Maryland 4-H Center, 8020 Greenmead Drive, College Park, MD 20740

Position Summary/Purpose of Position:
This is a full time position to assist the Youth Development Specialists with coordination of educational seminars and to train volunteers to conduct workshops for youth focusing on environmental science an equine science.

Responsibilities:
  • Coordinate competitive events and activities for Environmental Science (ex: Shooting Sports) and Equine Science. (Approximately 10 major events annually).
  • Assist Youth Development Specialist(s)/State Shooting Sports Program Coordinator with coordination of educational seminars and training of volunteers to conduct workshops and seminars for youth & adult volunteers focusing on environmental science and equine science.
  • Develop grant funded projects to enhance the 4-H Youth Development environmental and equine programs.
  • Promote and market the 4-H youth development program to the community, using print, electronic and web-based media.
  • Maintain databases to track volunteer and youth training and certification, participation, and achievement in environmental science and equine science programs.
  • Assist Youth Development Specialist(s)/State Shooting Sports Program Coordinator with coordination of State 4·H Horse Advisory and State 4-H Shooting Sports committees.

Qualifications:
Required –
  • Equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted for the BA.
  • Demonstrated leadership and management abilities.
  • Evidence of experience in event management and coordination
  • Experience working with volunteers and diverse audiences of all socio-economic levels.
  • Evidence of excellent communication skills.
  • Knowledge and use of computer technology for educational programming and management.
  • Personal transportation and valid driver’s license for travel within the state.
  • Flexible working hours required; must be available for evening and weekend programs and meetings.
  • If offered employment by UME, individual will be required before beginning job assignment, to obtain and clear a background check by the State of Maryland and FBI.
Preferences –
  • Bachelor’s degree.
  • Major area of study in fields related to education, youth development, environmental science, animal science or related field.
  • Evidence of practical experiences in field of environmental science and equine science.
Physical Demands –
  • Moderate desk work and lifting.



Salary & Benefits:
Salary commensurate with experience; Hiring Range Minimum: $40,000 – Hiring Range Maximum: $50,000. The University of Maryland offers an extensive benefits package.

Application Process:
All candidates must apply online at https://ejobs.umd.edu.  A complete application packet includes: a cover letter, resume, copies of transcripts, and contact information for three (3) professional references (including name, mailing address, telephone number, and email address).

Closing Date:  April 26, 2017

The University of Maryland, College Park, actively subscribes to a policy of equal employment opportunity, and will not discriminate against any employee or applicant because of race, age, sex, color, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, religion, ancestry or national origin, marital status, genetic information, political affiliation, and gender identity or expression. Minorities and women are encouraged to apply.

Saturday, March 25, 2017

Humpback Whale Internship

Soils Extension Faculty Position - Purdue University

Pathways Internship Positions

 The March National Pathways Postings for Interns have been posted.  The Job Opportunity Announcements will open today on March 23, 2017 and close on April 3, 2017.    Please see below for the links to each announcement:

·         Student Trainee (Rangeland Management) GS-0499-03, NTE 09/30/2017; NRCS-17-0569PW-MG: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/466406400
·         Student Trainee (Rangeland Management) GS-0499-03 FPL 04; NRCS-17-0575-PW-MG: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/466404000
·         Student Trainee (Rangeland Management) GS-0499-04 FPL 04; NRCS-17-0584-PW-MG: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/466407200

·         Student Trainee (Soil Conservation) GS-0499-02 NTE 9/30/2017; NRCS-17-0583-PW-MG: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/466403900
·         Student Trainee (Soil Conservation) GS-0499-02 FPL 04; NRCS-17-0580-PW-MG: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/466405100
·         Student Trainee (Soil Conservation) GS-0499-02 FPL 04; NRCS-17-0582-PW-MG: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/466413100
·         Student Trainee (Soil Conservation) GS-0499-03, NTE 09/30/2017, NRCS-17-0578-PW-MG https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/466410900
·         Student Trainee (Soil Conservation), GS-0499-03, NRCS-17-0563-PW-MG  https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/466411000
·         Student Trainee (Soil Conservation), GS-0499-03, NRCS-17-0571-PW-MG https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/466414300
·         Student Trainee (Soil Conservation) GS-0499-03, NRCS-17-0577-PW-MG https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/466413000
·         Student Trainee (Soil Conservation) GS-0499-04, NTE 09/30/2017, NRCS-17-0590-PW-MG https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/466455800

·         Student Trainee (Engineering) GS-0899-02 NTE 09/30/2017, NRCS-17-0565-PW-SR: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/466403600
·         Student Trainee (Engineering) GS-0899-02 FPL 04 NRCS-17-0568-PW-SR: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/466405400
·         Student Trainee (Engineering) GS-0899-03, NTE 09/30/2017, NRCS-17-0567-PW-AC: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/466405200
·         Student Trainee (Engineering) GS-0899-03 , NRCS-17-0592-PW-AC:  https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/466457700
·         Student Trainee (Engineering) GS-0899-04, NTE 09/30/2017, NRCS-17-0585-PW-AChttps://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/466464400

·         Student Trainee (Soil Science) GS-0499-02, NRCS-17-0572-PW-MG: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/466459500
·         Student Trainee (Soil Science) GS-0499-03, NRCS-17-0576-PW-MG: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/466459700

·         Student Trainee (Human Resources) GS-0299-02, NRCS-17-0586-PW-AC: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/466461300
·         Student Trainee (Human Resources) GS-0299-05, NRCS-17-0588-PW-SR: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/466462400

·         Student Trainee (Hydrology) GS-1399-03 NTE 09/30/2017, NRCS-17-0593-PW-MG: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/466468700

Bartlett Tree Internship

GEOG 418 Field Methods in Environmental Science Field Course

Bat Seasonal Research Assistant Positions

Thursday, March 16, 2017

Big Ten Network Sustainability Fund Commerical

Graduate School Virtual Fair

SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES GRAD SCHOOL VIRTUAL FAIR - March 29th
REGISTER NOW * LEARN MORE * Live online event - Attend the Fair from Anywhere
Please Share: Science & Environmental Studies Graduate School Virtual Fair on March 29th

Job Database

A useful website posting Environmental positions:

Post-Doc Opportunity in Stream Restoration Research

POSTDOCTORAL OPPORTUNITY IN STREAM RESTORATION RESEARCH
(Review begins 15 April 2017, open until filled)

               The Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC) has an immediate opening for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to study the effects of stream restoration on removal of nutrients and suspended sediments from stream water.  The restoration approach, Regenerative Stormwater Conveyance (RSC), involves filling deeply eroded stream channels with a mixture of sand and organic matter and placing rock weirs across the stream channel at intervals to create a series of pools.  The Postdoctoral Fellow will investigate the effects of three RSCs by assisting with the ongoing research and with synthesizing data on nitrogen and phosphorus fluxes through the RSCs. 
               The goal of the research is to assess the ability of RSCs to modulate stream flow and remove nitrogen, phosphorus and suspended sediments from stream water under a wide range of flow conditions.  The research uses a combination of in-stream sensors and automated sampling to measure flows of stream water, suspended sediments, nitrogen, phosphorus, and organic matter through the RSCs.  Groundwater chemistry and hydrology are also measured at one RSC on SERC property.  Existing data extend before the restorations at two sites and include measurements of control streams without RSCs for comparison.  This presents an ideal opportunity to learn more about the benefits and design considerations of a restoration method that is widely accepted but not well studied. It also presents an opportunity increase basic knowledge about of how stream biogeochemistry responds to changes in geomorphology and organic matter inputs.
               The Fellowship is initially funded for 1 year with possibility of extension.  The stipend is $56,000/year including health insurance allowance.  The Fellow will work closely with Dr. Thomas Jordan and will be based at the campus of the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (www.serc.si.edu), which has 100+ full-time employees and is set in a 1,072 hectare field site within commuting distance of Annapolis, MD and Washington, DC.
               Applicants should have a Ph.D. in environmental science or engineering, peer-reviewed publications, and professional presentations.  Applicants should also have knowledge of hydrology and the biogeochemistry of N and P.  Skills in data management, analysis and modeling, as well as analytical chemistry and the use of automated systems for in situ sensing and water sampling would also be desirable.
               For best consideration, email a letter of application, full CV with publications list, graduate and undergraduate transcripts (unofficial copies are fine), and contact information for three references (with telephone numbers and e-mail addresses) to Dr. Thomas Jordan (jordanth@si.edu), SERC, 647 Contees Wharf Road, Edgewater, MD 21037.  For more information on SERC visit http://www.serc.si.edu.  EOE.

Friday, March 3, 2017

Urban Conservation Research Intern

Research Assistant/Intern - Panama Vampire Bats

NOW HIRING: research assistant

Research Intern 1: cooperation in vampire bats
Application deadline: Get your application in as soon as possible. Evaluations will begin March 1, 2017 but may continue past that date.
When: May 1 — October 1, 2017. Dates are negotiable.
Where: The Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute in Panama. This plachas many great opportunities if you are interested in a career in organismal or tropical biology. Some of the best ecologists and evolutionary biologists in the world visit throughout the year. You’ll be working for Dr. Gerry Carter, currently a Smithsonian Postdoctoral Fellow.
What: You will be helping with experiments and observations of captive vampire bats April to August, and fieldwork in September. The basic approach and methods are similar to those in the references below. There are opportunities for independent projects and co-authorship on papers.
Main benefits:
  • research experience
  • opportunity to lead projects and help write scientific papers
  • networking with other biologists
  • $1000/month stipend to help cover travel and living expenses
Full-time (40 h/week) responsibilities will include:
  • helping to care for captive vampire bats= 0-3 h/week
  • filming and recording social behaviors= 3-6 h/ week
  • behavioral video analysis = 15 h/week
  • help with or lead a research project = 16-25 h/ week
Traits of ideal candidate:
  • Excellent reading and writing in English. Spanish proficiency is helpful too.
  • Strong academic record and interest in a research career
  • Strong foundation in biology (especially evolution and behavior)
  • Self-motivated, hard-working, and good time-management skills
For undergraduates and graduate students, there are competitive awards from the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. See the links in the last sentence.
Feel free to ask me questions. I can send you a complete list of people who have worked with me in Panama if you want to get their opinion of what it’s like working here.
How to apply:
Send me an email (gerry@socialbat.org) with the title “Research Position Application” and a single PDF document with the following:
  • explain your research interests, experience, and what you want out of this job (less than 1 page)
  • highlight in bold the time period when you are available and what dates are best for you
  • CV
  • academic transcript with GPA, classes, and grades (informal/screenshot is fine)
  • name, institution, and email of two references
https://socialbat.org/interns/

Tree Maintenance Intern Wanted (unpaid, part-time - full-time)

Tree Maintenance Intern Wanted (unpaid, part-time - full-time)

Energetic and physically healthy person needed to assist in taking care of young planted trees for the Gunpowder Valley Conservancy (GVC), a non-profit land trust and watershed organization located in Baltimore metropolitan area.  Work will be done in the Loch Raven Reservoir area and surrounding Gunpowder Watershed to assist in the GVC Reforestation Program.
Required:
Must be age 18+; must provide own transportation; and be able to lift up to 40 lbs.

Essential qualities needed include:
Honest, hard worker; ​ability to take instruction and apply consistently; willing to work outside in an open field environment with high, flowering weeds; willing to work in the heat as well as cold temperatures; attention to detail; ability to work without direct supervision; and able to take initiative. 

The ideal candidate will have:
Minimum of 1 year college level course work working towards a degree in environmental science, biology, ecology, botany, or natural history.

Hours are flexible and can include weekends. Approximately 10 hours a week preferred. Commitment to a spring, summer and fall schedule is preferred but a June, July and August commitment is allowable.

Please send a cover letter and resume to Kim Peabody at kpeabody@gunpowdervc.org ASAP.
https://ssl.gstatic.com/ui/v1/icons/mail/images/cleardot.gif

Assistant Director (UME Assistant Director of Operations)

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE AND NATURAL RESOURCES
UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND EXTENSION
COLLEGE PARK, MARYLAND

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT
Title: Assistant Director
Functional Title: Assistant Director (UME Assistant Director of Operations)
Position Number: 103488
Category Status: Exempt Regular
Unit: AGNR-UME-Associate Director

Position Summary/Purpose of Position:
The Assistant Director of Operations (ADO), working closely with the Associate Dean /Associate Director of University of Maryland Extension (UME), will provide management oversight for faculty/staff in UME with regard to organizational function. Specifically this individual will provide support to Area Extension Directors (AEDs), Baltimore City Extension Director (BCED), and unit chairs/coordinators in the areas of fiscal management, personnel management and public relations. The ADO understands and supports UME vision, mission and program initiatives and priorities and manages field operations to support those areas statewide. In carrying out these duties, the ADO understands and ensures implementation of all University, College and UME policies and procedures. The ADO represents the interest of all field­based faculty and staff to the UME Leadership Team.

Responsibilities:
Fiscal Management
  • Provides guidance and support to AEDs, and Baltimore City Extension Director in budget preparation, proposals, justification and management of funds.
  • Works closely with AGNR College Administrative Service office to oversee all federal, state and local funds allocated in support of UME.
  • Works with UME business managers in the state to ensure day­to­day management of appropriated public and private funds.
Personnel Management
  • Works with AGNR College HR office for all hiring, orientation, support and termination of UME employees.
  • Provides direct supervision for mentoring and development of area extension directors.
  • Provides direct supervision for key support staff inclusive of budget, personnel, grants, contracts and information technology.
  • Supports local administrators (AEDs and BCED) with personnel issues as needed.
  • Ensures Performance Review and Development (PRD) process is completed for all field based UME exempt and non­exempt positions with coordination by area or ADO support staff.
Public Relations
  • Supports AED/BCED in county/city/area Extension Advisory Council/Board development and engagement.

Qualifications:
Required–
  • Master’s Degree in business administration, agricultural economics/business, human resources, or other related disciplines.
  • Five years senior management experience in business administration, including fiscal and personnel management.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong background and skills in budgeting and finance.
  • Excellent knowledge and ability to manage human resource related issues.
  • A demonstrated ability to navigate sensitive issues and arbitrate successful outcomes.
  • Personal Transportation and valid driver’s license required.  Must be willing to travel within the state.
Preferences–
  • Working knowledge of the local, state and federal agencies and groups involved in Extension/Agricultural College related issues.

Salary & Benefits:
Salary will be commensurate with experience. Hiring Range Minimum: $104,000 – Hiring Range Maximum: $130,000. The University of Maryland offers an extensive benefits package.

Application:
All candidates must apply online at https://ejobs.umd.edu.  A complete application packet includes a cover letter, resume or CV, unofficial academic transcripts, and three (3) professional references, including name, mailing address, telephone number, and e-mail address.

Closing date: Open until filled. For best consideration please apply by April 3, 2017.


The University of Maryland, College Park, actively subscribes to a policy of equal employment opportunity, and will not discriminate against any employee or applicant because of race, age, sex, color, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, religion, ancestry or national origin, marital status, genetic information, political affiliation, and gender identity or expression. Minorities and women are encouraged to apply.