viernes, 23 de diciembre de 2011

El Top Ten científico según Science

Los hallazgos científicos en 2011 cubrieron todas las disciplinas al alcanzar lo más lejano del universo hasta los más profundos misterios de la célula. Como cada año, la revista científica Science presentó su recuento de lo más sobresaliente en su publicación.

•Guerra contra VIH. La terapia antirretroviral HPTN de Myron Cohen demostró que protegen en 96% a una pareja estable heterosexual que mantenga relaciones con una persona infectada.

•Exploración espacial: El regreso de la sonda espacial japonesa Hayabusa que trajo por primera vez polvo de la superficie de un asteroide.

•A. sediba ¿el eslabón perdido? Una nueva especie de ancestros humanos se descubrió en 2010, pero hasta este año se analizó el código genético y se encontró que muchos humanos todavía son portadores de variantes de ADN heredado de humanos arcaicos que probablemente moldeó el sistema de inmunidad del Homo sapiens.

•Genómica. Científicos japoneses mapearon la estructura de la proteína Photosystem II, esencial en el proceso fotosintético de las plantas.

•Gas prístino. Astrónomos del Observatorio W.M. Keck detectaron dos nubes de gas que podrían ser remanente de la Gran Explosión en el comienzo del Universo. Como las nubes son demasiado difusas como para formar estrellas y no muestran trazas de "metales", que es el término que emplean los astrónomos para cualquier elemento más pesado que el hidrógeno y el helio. Esa ausencia indica que esos gases nunca han estado involucrados en la formación de estrellas en los dos mil millones de años desde la explosión inicial.

•Microbioma. El ser humano se divide en tres grandes grupos según su flora intestinal, independientemente de la raza o tipo de dieta.

•Salud. Una vacuna (RTS,S) protege en gran medida a los niños africanos frente a la malaria clínica y grave. Tres dosis reducen 56% el riesgo de que los niños sufran malaria y 47% en el caso de la malaria grave.

•Exoplanetas. La búsqueda de Tierras u otros planetas fuera del sistema solar que expliquen con mayor detalle su formación es una tarea que ha cobrado más fuerza. Este años, más de 710 exoplanetas se descubrieron y la cuenta continúa creciendo

•Innovación en materiales. Investigadores encontraron nuevas formas de adaptar el tamaño de los poros de la zeolita, familia de minerales porosos que se utilizan como catalizadores en diversas reacciones como es obtener gasolina del petróleo o fabricar detergentes. Las nuevas zoelitas son más delgadas, más baratas y eficaces.

•¿Clave del envejecimiento?. Eliminar del organismo las células secescentes, aquellas que ya no se dividen, pueden retrasar la aparición de síntomas de envejecimiento como las cataratas o la debilidad muscular.

domingo, 20 de noviembre de 2011

Conservation and Land Management Internship Program

The Conservation and Land Management Internship Program is
now accepting applications for 2012!
Please apply online at www.clminternship.org

Would you like to put your education to use assisting in important conservation projects? Do you like to experience new landscapes, habitats, and species diversity? The CLM Internship Program is a wonderful opportunity to begin a career in botany, wildlife biology, natural resource management and conservation!

Each year, the Conservation and Land Management Internship Program places 75-100 college graduates in five-month paid internships to assist professional staff at the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), National Park Service (NPS), US Forest Service (US FS), US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and US Geologic Survey (USGS). Internships are primarily located in one of the thirteen western states, including Alaska. Each internship is unique and may focus on botany, wildlife, or a combination of the two. Projects may include collecting seed for restoration and conservation purposes and data on threatened and endangered species and habitats. Applicants with strong botanical backgrounds are especially encouraged to apply!

Benefits of the CLM Internship Program are numerous. As a CLM intern, you will receive a stipend paid every two weeks totaling $11,900 over 5 months and will attend an all-expenses paid week-long training workshop at a location to be determined. In addition, the CLM Internship Program provides opportunities to make connections in various governmental and non-profit organizations, to learn what it's like to work at a federal agency, to explore your career goals and expand your resume. For more information and to apply online, please visit:
www.clminternship.org

nzerega@chicagobotanic.org

viernes, 18 de noviembre de 2011

Solicitan Asistente de educacion ambiental y participacion social

El Centro Intercultural de Estudios de Desiertos y Océanos (CEDO), en Puerto Peñasco (Sonora), convoca a interesados en proyecto de educación ambiental con niños, jóvenes y pescadores del Norte del Golfo de California bajo el puesto de "Asistente de educación ambiental y participación social".
Contratacion por un año, a partir del 09 de enero del 2012. Enviar CV y carta de interés a mas tardar el 04 de diciembre del 2011.

Pida informes a Paloma Valdivia paloma@cedointercultural.org

Vea los detalles en:
http://www.cicese.mx/docs/5288_PUESTO_DE_ASISTENTE_DE_EDUCACION_AMBIENTAL-_CEDO.doc

viernes, 4 de noviembre de 2011

martes, 25 de octubre de 2011

Liberan a cinco ejemplares de lobo gris mexicano en el norte del país

Liberan a cinco ejemplares de lobo gris mexicano en el norte del país
Participaron Semarnat, Conanp, Conafor, Naturalia, gobiernos estatales, academia, especialistas y propietarios de predios
Este programa permite ampliar la población de especies en peligro de extinción de manera gradual, logrando una reproducción exitosa
La liberación se efectuó bajo un protocolo de manejo que contempla la seguridad, monitoreo y seguimiento de los lobos
Como resultado de los trabajos de conservación y reintroducción del lobo gris mexicano que realiza de manera coordinada la Secretaría de Medio Ambiente y Recursos Naturales, a través de la Comisión Nacional de Áreas Naturales Protegidas (Conanp), la Comisión Nacional Forestal (Conafor), la organización ambientalista Naturalia A.C., junto con gobiernos estatales de la frontera norte del país, se llevó a cabo la liberación de los primeros cinco ejemplares de esta especie a vida silvestre.

Este programa consistió en la liberación de tres hembras de 11, 4 y 3 años, y 2 machos de tres años, mismos que estuvieron sujetos a un proceso de rehabilitación conductual en la Unidad de Manejo Ambiental de la Vida Silvestre (UMA) Rancho La Mesa, en Nuevo León. Posteriormente fueron trasladados a un ecosistema desértico mexicano, del cual eran endémicos históricamente y ser puestos en libertad.

La implementación de este tipo de programas permite ampliar la población de especies en peligro de extinción de manera gradual, logrando una reproducción exitosa.

Para la seguridad, monitoreo y seguimiento de los lobos liberados, a cada animal le fue colocado un radio collar con sistema satelital que permitirá ubicarlos de manera puntual.

Los lobos mexicanos juegan un papel importante en control de especies, como coyotes, liebres, pequeños roedores y reptiles, así como su alimento natural que son los venados y pecaríes, entre otros; asimismo, permiten que se recupere la vegetación.

Cabe recordar que la distribución histórica del lobo en México radica en los estados de Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo León, Durango, Zacatecas, Aguascalientes, San Luís Potosí, El Bajío y la Meseta Central, llegando incluso hasta Oaxaca.

En estos trabajos también participan diferentes sectores de la sociedad civil organizada, academia, especialistas y propietarios de predios, para establecer e implementar las líneas estratégicas a desarrollarse para lograr la recuperación en vida libre de esta especie emblemática.

El Lobo Mexicano se encuentra dentro de la categoría “Probablemente extinta en el medio silvestre (E)” de la Norma Oficial Mexicana NOM-059-SEMARNAT-2010, Protección ambiental-Especies nativas de México de flora y fauna silvestres-Categorías de riesgo y especificaciones para su inclusión, exclusión o cambio-Lista de especies en riesgo.

FOTOS Y VIDEOS:
http://saladeprensa.semarnat.gob.mx/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4066:com45511-liberan-a-cinco-ejemplares-de-lobo-gris-mexicano-en-el-norte-del-pais&catid=50:comunicados&Itemid=110

jueves, 20 de octubre de 2011

viernes, 14 de octubre de 2011

Tesis con beca sobre cultivo de abulón Haliotis spp

Se solicitan estudiantes para ingresar a la maestría o doctorado en oceanografía costera o ecología molecular y biotecnología de la Facultad de Ciencias Marinas (UABC,
Ensenada) a partir de enero del 2012, haciendo tesis sobre cultivo de abulón Haliotis spp., con beca del CONACYT. Interesados comunicarse a más tardar el 20 de octubre del 2011. Pueden solicitar los requisitos por medio de e-mail.

Pida informes a Ricardo Searcy rsearcy@uabc.edu.mx

jueves, 13 de octubre de 2011

Biodiversity & Management of the Madrean Archipelago III

Biodiversity & Management of the Madrean Archipelago III
Merging science and management in a rapidly changing world
http://www.madreanconference.org/

Since 1994, the Biodiversity and Management of the Madrean Archipelago conference has served as a catalyst for interdisciplinary, cross-border conservation work.
You are invited to participate in the third Madrean conference on May 1-5 in Tucson, Arizona. This conference will bring together the latest research from scientists and managers in the Sky Islands area of Mexico and the United States.

Conference Topics
The Madrean Conference covers a number of topics important to the Sky Island region, including:

Biological diversity
Rivers, streams, and wetlands
Corridors and barriers
Climate change
Invasive species
Restoration and conservation
Trans-border cooperation
Fire ecology

Call for papers & posters
Abstracts for presentations at the conference will be accepted until November 30, 2011

Mas informacion: http://www.madreanconference.org/

Tesis de maestria: identificacion molecular de peces

El Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas CICIMAR-IPN) solicitan estudiantes que quieran realizar su tesis de maestría en el proyecto "Identificación molecular de especies de la Familia Engraulidae en huevos y larvas de peces del alto Golfo de California".
Se tienen disponibles becas CONACyT.

Pida informes a Noé Díaz ndviloria@hotmail.com

jueves, 6 de octubre de 2011

GRADUATE POSITION IN GLOBAL CHANGE & EVOLUTION AT U RHODE ISLAND

I invite applications from motivated students for graduate degree work in the area of evolutionary ecology and evolutionary genetics of invasive species at the University of Rhode Island. Funding will be provided either as research or teaching assistantships, depending on student background and availability. Applicants should be independent, highly motivated, and possess some research and/or field experience. Students with experience using molecular techniques (i.e., DNA extraction, PCR, DNA sequencing, microsatellite genotyping) or conducting GIS-based spatial analyses are encouraged to apply.
Research in our lab generally addresses the evolutionary dynamics of biological invasions using Anolis lizards as a model system. We use molecular markers to reconstruct invasion histories and test factors that facilitate or constrain phenotypic evolution during invasions. Detailed information about my research is available at http://web.me.com/jjkolbe
Prospective students should contact me (Jason Kolbe via email at jjkolbe@mail.uri.edu) and provide a short description of research interests and accomplishments, a CV (including GPA and GRE scores), and contact information for three references. I will contact suitable candidates to discuss potential graduate projects and to set up an interview.
Jason J. Kolbe
Department of Biological Sciences
University of Rhode Island
CBLS 189, 120 Flagg Rd.
Kingston, RI 02881 USA
Email: jjkolbe@mail.uri.edu
Website: http://web.me.com/jjkolbe

Human impact on the global patterns of marine mammal distribution and abundance

This 3-year, fully funded, PhD project, will quantify the impact of historical human activities on the global patterns of diversity and abundance of marine mammal species.
It will be based at the Centre d’Ecologie Fonctionelle et Evolutive, Montpellier, France, supervised by Ana Rodrigues.
Application deadline: 31 October.

Candidate profile
The successful candidate will possess:
- A solid academic background in ecology.
- A rigorous and detail-oriented approach to work with an aptitude for exploring and analysing historical datasets.
- Strong analytical skills, including knowledge or capacity to learn GIS and programming skills (for example in R) for the manipulation and analyses of large spatial datasets.
- Good interpersonal skills needed for working as part of a large team, and for coordinating multi-disciplinary, multi-institutional meetings involving scientists and stakeholders.
- Good command of the English language.

This PhD is a part of the ANR-funded MORSE project: “Management of Ocean Resources under Shifting Expectations - bringing the historical perspective into marine mammal conservation”. The MORSE project is a partnership between the Centre d’Ecologie Fonctionelle et Evolutive (CEFE CNRS UMR5175; www.cefe.cnrs.fr), the Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (David Kaplan, IRD UMR212, www.umr-eme.org/), and the laboratory Ecologie des systèmes marins côtiers (Fabien Leprieur, ECOSYM CNRS UMR5119, http://www.ecosym.univ-montp2.fr), with the collaboration of a network of international partners.
The student will be supervised by Ana Rodrigues
(http://www.cefe.cnrs.fr/dynamique-des-paysages-et-de-la-biodiversite/ana-rodrigues),
based at the CEFE, and affiliated with the SIBAGHE Doctoral School,
Université Montpellier 2 (http://www.sibaghe.univ-montp2.fr).

Application procedure
Please send a detailed CV, course grades from most recent academic work, letter of motivation, and name and contacts (email and phone number) of two or more researchers capable of assessing your competence for this position via email to ana.rodrigues@cefe.cnrs.fr by the 31 October 2011.

viernes, 30 de septiembre de 2011

microMORPH training grants

microMORPH (Molecular and Organismal Research in Plant History) training grants
Deadline: November 1, 2011
Award amount: up to $3,500
microMORPH is announcing a funding opportunity for graduate students,
post-docs, and early career faculty. Each award is up to $3,500 and is
available to individuals with an interest in microevolutionary aspects
of plant evo-devo. In particular, we wish to encourage visits from
evolutionary ecologists, systematists and morphologists to visit molecular
developmental labs with the intention of developing tools to investigate
clade-level diversifications ¡V and visits from members of molecular
developmental labs interested in learning of the biology and evolutionary
ecology of non-model groups of species. The interdisciplinary nature
of these focused interactions will provide a unique opportunity for
participants to integrate historically disparate fields and in turn
develop research programs at the interfaces of evolutionary ecology,
organismic biology, and developmental biology.

Please see our website (http://www.colorado.edu/eeb/microMORPH/) for a
list of past awardees and details on how to apply.

These training grants are supported by a five-year grant from the National
Science Foundation entitled microMORPH: microevolutionary Molecular and
Organismic Research in Plant History. This grant is funded through the
Research Coordination Network Program at NSF. The overarching goal of the
microMORPH RCN is to study speciation and the diversification of plants
by linking genes through development to morphology, and ultimately to
adaptation and fitness, within the dynamic context of natural populations
and closely related species.

In addition to awarding travel and training grants, the microMORPH RCN
also hosts web pages for graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and
faculty working on plant microevolutionary developmental biology from a
paleobotanical, organismic, morphological, or molecular perspective or any
combination thereof. If you do not already have a microMORPH web page and
would like us to host one for you, please contact us and we will set one
up for you (no computer work is necessary from your end). Please visit
our web page for examples: http://www.colorado.edu/eeb/microMORPH/

Position in Plant Ecology, Desert Laboratory on Tumamoc Hill

The position is open starting 9/8/11. The position is open until filled but the applications will be reviewed starting 9/18/2011
The Venable lab is seeking a Research Technician position from now through June (with possible indefinite extension).
The Research Technician will work with principal investigators, postdocs, lab technicians, and graduate and undergraduate students coordinating the collection and processing of data on ecophysiology and population and community ecology of desert winter annuals at the Desert Laboratory on Tumamoc Hill. Research will occur in the field, green house, and growth chambers in the laboratory. The position also involves managing undergraduate research assistants, including providing training in lab and field techniques.
For more information contact Jennifer Gremer (jgremer@email.arizona.edu), Jonathan Horst (jhorst@email.arizona.edu) at 621-4022, or Larry Venable (venable@email.arizona.edu) at 621-5956.

PhD positions, Vienna Graduate School of Population Genetics

Over the past years, Vienna has developed into one of the leading centres of
population genetics. The Vienna Graduate School of Population Genetics has
been founded to provide a training opportunity for PhD students to build on
this excellent on site expertise.
We invite applications from highly motivated and outstanding students with a
background in one of the following disciplines: bioinformatics, statistics,
evolutionary genetics, functional genetics, theoretical and experimental
population genetics. Students from related disciplines, such as physics or
mathematics are also welcome to apply.
*Available topics include:*
•Probabilistic models for the population genetics of molecular evolution
•Inferring selection using *Drosophila* whole genome sequence data
New algorithm and models to analyze population genetic massive parallel sequence data
• Experimental evolution in *Drosophila*
• Evolution of gene expression in *Drosophila*
• Evolution of transposable elements in *Drosophila*
• Natural variation in transposable element defense systems
• Tracing the genomic signature of hybridization between *D. mauritiana
* and *D. simulans*
• Functionally important variation in lifespan and other life history
traits in natural and experimental evolution populations
• Mathematical models of spatially varying selection in subdivided
populations
• Statistical methods for detecting selective sweeps using genome-wide
data
• Population genetic estimators from NGS data: assessing the power for
methods for genome scans of selection
• The nature of differentiation between two closely related species of
oak
• The footprint of adaptive gene introgression after secondary contact

Only full applications (CV, motivation letter, university certificates,
indication of the two preferred topics in a single pdf) received by *
08.01.2012* will be considered. Two letters of recommendation need to be
sent directly by the referees.
All information about the about the Vienna Graduate School of Population
Genetics, the training program and the application procedure can be found at
www.popgen-vienna.at

PhD position, Institute of Integrative Biology at ETH Zurich

The Institute of Integrative Biology at ETH Zurich - Experimental Ecology Group - is offering a PhD position
"Alternative resistance systems in host-parasite interactions"
The project is flexible but a first aim is to use current methods (such as RAD sequencing) to identify appropriate markers for the study of host-parasite interactions in the field. Our study system involves Bombus spp. on the host side and trypanosome infections. As a background resource, the genomic toolbox for B. terrestris is currently refined and will result in an annotated genome. The project work will be based on sampling and experiments in the field and lab. We seek to understand some principles that govern the dynamics and adaptive processes in this model host-parasite system. The anticipated project is part of an ERC Advanced Grant on alternative host resistance systems and the population structure of parasites (RESIST). We look for candidates that are interested in challenging ecological and evolutionary questions and who are willing to explore new methodical tools for this purpose. A successful candidate may have some experience, for example, in molecular or popul
ation genetics, the use of gene data banks, or be familiar with the analysis of adaptation. Whatever the background, a demonstrated interest in evolutionary biology, population genetics, or ecology is an asset. The project will be embedded in an active research group with long-term experience of the system.
Starting date is negotiable, but no later than spring 2012. Please send applications (CV, Publication list, Names and emails of referees) by email to Prof. P.Schmid-Hempel (psh@env.ethz.ch), ETH Zurich, Institute of Integrative Biology, ETH-Zentrum CHN, CH- 8092 Zurich (review of application starts 30 Oct until filled). Further information on ETH, the group, or life in Zurich can, for example, be obtained from www.eco.ethz.ch.

Ph.D. position, Florida Museum of Natural History

A Ph.D. position is open at the Florida Museum of Natural History, University of Florida, starting in Fall 2012 under the supervision of Dr. Akito Kawahara.
The successful applicant will work on the systematics and evolution of hawkmoths, with special focus on the evolution of anti-bat ultrasound production and hearing in Sphingidae. The project will be part of a collaborative study on the evolution and behavioral strategies of hawkmoths and insectivorous bats. Labwork with DNA sequence data, active interaction with international collaborators, and extensive fieldwork in the tropics are expected. Experience in molecular, phylogenetic methods and/or bioinformatics is highly desirable.
For further information, please contact Akito Kawahara
kawahara(at)flmnh.ufl.edu
A lab website can be found at:
http://www.flmnh.ufl.edu/mcguire/kawahara/=0A

miércoles, 28 de septiembre de 2011

Solicitan Especialista en Sustentabilidad Financiera

Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) está buscando un Especialista en Sustentabilidad Financiera para ser parte del grupo de liderazgo e investigación dentro del programa de Océanos de EDF en La Paz (Baja California Sur), para catalizar desarrollo de gestión de negocios, mercados e iniciativas financieras en las pesquerías del Golfo de California para apoyar la transición al Manejo Compartido por Cuotas en México.
La fecha límite para aplicar es el 15 de noviembre del 2011.
Vea los detalles en:
http://www.biosferadesarrollos.com.mx/EDF_Especialista_en_Sustentabilidad_Financiera_Final_2011.pdf

PhD students in Evolutionary Ecology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich

The Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU) in Munich is among the top one
hundred universities in the world, and part of the German Excellence
Initiative. The Department of Biology (Evolutionary Ecology) seeks
A PhD students in Evolutionary Ecology
Project title: The role of hybridization in the colonization of newly opened habitats
The PhD students will participate in a collaborative research project of Justyna Wolinska to investigate hybridization between species as a creative evolutionary force that allows rapid adaptation to new environments. This project is a part of a large research initiative funded by the German Science Foundation: “Natural Selection in Structured Populations”. The overarching goal of this Research Unit is the study of natural selection in realistic population settings. Because of its role as a driving force of adaptation, understanding natural selection is undoubtedly one of the most important objectives of evolutionary biology.
Specifically, the student will study how hybrid-specific traits may
facilitate the colonization of novel habitats (small quarry lakes), using
the *Daphnia* hybrid complex as a model system. *Daphnia* communities will
be screened at the microsatellite loci and three contrasting scenarios of
hybrid maintenance will be tested: survival of hybrids as clonal lineages,
recurrent hybridization events or establishment of hybrids through migrants.
In addition, using laboratory experiments it will be tested if hybrids have
more diverse phenotypes compared to parental taxa (due to increased genetic
variation in hybrid individuals). Finally, the field and laboratory data
will be used for parameterization of a mathematical model, which will be
developed to study the contribution of different ecological parameters to
the success of hybrids. The proposed combination of empirical and
theoretical approaches will advance our understanding of the role of
hybridization in the colonization of new habitats and, more generally, of
genetic exchange in adaptive evolution.
The main methods are: microsatellites, experiments, some mathematical modelling (in collaboration with Joachim Hermisson, University of Vienna) and a little bit of field work.
We are looking for highly motivated candidates with interests in the
evolutionary ecology and population genetics. The position will be for a
period of three years, and should start as soon as possible (December 2011
or soon thereafter). The students will take part in the organized
PhDprogram (including attending various skills courses) of the
university. The ideal candidate should have a strong background in evolutionary biology
and/or population genetics. Good molecular skills, excellent communication
and writing skills in English, good work ethics, and creative thinking are
desired. Skills in mathematical modelling will be advantageous. A Diploma or
Masters degree (or equivalent) in biology is necessary for admission. The
working language in the group is English.
Applications should include 1) a letter of interest with a description of
pertinent experience, 2) curriculum vitae, 3) abstract of the master/diploma
thesis, 4) a list of publications (if any), 5) the names (with e-mail
addresses) of three potential referees. Applications should be submitted as
a SINGLE (!) PDF document to the following e-mail address: wolinska@bio.lmu.de
Please submit your application by 13 October 2011.
For further information, consult
Justyna Wolinska: wolinska@bio.lmu.de
http://sci.bio.lmu.de/ecology/evol_e/people_wolinska_e.html
http://www.mabs.at/hermisson/index.html

Helsinki evo-devo research community, Salazar-Ciudad group

Helsinki University
Institute of Biotechnology
Helsinki evo-devo research community
Salazar-Ciudad group
We are looking for two students, preferably biologists, to start two grants for two PhDs in systems biology and/or evo-devo about:
-Gene network simulations of pattern formation, morphogenesis and morphological evolution of mammalian organs.
or/and
-Variational phenomics, 3D morphometrics, development and evolution
One of the current challenges of evolutionary biology is to understand how genetic variation leads to specific morphological variation (the genotype-phenotype map) and how that process affects the direction of morphological change in evolution. Our group is devoted to address this question by using gene network models and empirical analysis of developmental and variational data.
Programming skills or a willingness to acquire them are required.
The grants are provided through the Finnish academy of sciences.
One of the positions is between Isaac Salazar-Ciudad´s Group and Jukka Jernvall's group and the other is in Isaac Salazar-Ciudad's group.
The exact topic of the theses would be discussed in detail after an interview.
For an outline of the groups' research:
http://www.biocenter.helsinki.fi/bi/evodevo/group_isaac.shtml
http://www.biocenter.helsinki.fi/bi/evodevo/index.shtml
For further inquiries:
Isaac Salazar Ciudad
Isaac.Salazar@uab.cat

Article example:
Salazar-Ciudad I, Jernvall J.A computational model of teeth and the
developmental origins of morphological variation. Nature. 2010 Mar
25;464(7288):583-6.
Salazar-Ciudad I. Morphological evolution and embryonic developmental
diversity in metazoa. Development. 2010 Feb;137(4):531-9.

Graduate Program in Bioanthropology

The Graduate Program in Bioanthropology in the Department of Anthropology at the University of Florida (www.anthro.ufl.edu/biological_program.shtml) is recruiting doctoral level graduate students for Fall 2012. Please contact the following biological and biocultural anthropology faculty if you are interested in applying to our program:
Sue Boinski, PhD, Primate evolution, ecology, and social behavior, www.anthro.ufl.edu/faculty/Boinski.shtml
David Daegling, PhD, Skeletal biomechanics, primate mastication, dental microwear, norphometrics, www.anthro.ufl.edu/faculty/Daegling.shtml
Clarence C. Gravlee, PhD, Biocultural approaches to health and human development, human biological variation, race and racism, culture, stress, and disease, Puerto Rico, U.S., lowland South America, http://www.gravlee.org
John Krigbaum, PhD, Paleoanthropology, bioarchaeology, human osteology, paleopathology, paleodiet reconstruction, Southeast Asia, www.anthro.ufl.edu/faculty/Krigbaum.shtml
Connie Mulligan, PhD, Human genetic variation, genetics of complex disease, New World/Asia colonization, migrations out of Africa, ancient DNA, Yemen, Democratic Republic of Congo, U.S., Mongolia, www.anthro.ufl.edu/faculty/Mulligan.shtml
Michael Warren, PhD, Forensic identification and trauma analysis, human variation, and analysis of cremated remains, www.anthro.ufl.edu/faculty/Warren.shtml
Alyson Young, PhD, human biology/adaptability, nutrition, child growth, and long-term consequences of early environments, Tanzania, Kenya, http://alysongyoung.wordpress.com
For more information on our graduate program see http://www.anthro.ufl.edu/graduate.shtml
The deadline for receipt of all application materials for the PhD program is December 15, 2011 (http://www.anthro.ufl.edu/graduate_instructions.shtml).
For additional assistance, e-mail our Graduate Program Assistant, Juanita Bagnall, jjba@ufl.edu

domingo, 25 de septiembre de 2011

CLUB de INSECTOS, Universidad de Sonora

La Licenciatura en Biología de la Universidad de Sonora convoca a formar parte del
CLUB de INSECTOS
Objetivo: Formar un grupo de difusión y estudio de los insectos de la región
Actividades:
•Sesiones teóricas
•Disección de insectos
•Identificación de insectos
•Preservación de insectos
•Colecciones entomológicas
•Prácticas de campo
•Y más!

Informes:
Emmanuel Bernal Loaiza, Lic. En Biología
Insectos.unison@hotmail.com
Ebernal_green@hotmail.com

CICESE ofrece plaza de investigador

El Departamento de Biotecnología Marina del Centro de Investigación Científica y de Educación Superior de Ensenada (CICESE), convoca a los interesados en un plaza de investigador, tiempo completo. Los candidatos deberán contar con una sólida formación en Genómica funcional de organismos de interés biotecnológico. Requiere doctorado
en ciencias. Las características del puesto ademas de los requisitos pueden solicitarlos por e-mail.
Pida informes a Denisse Re (denisre@cicese.mx)

Plazas disponibles en Parque Nacional Huatulco

El Parque Nacional Huatulco, de la Comisión Nacional de Áreas Naturales Protegidas, tiene disponibles dos plazas:
a) auxiliar técnico de área natural protegida, y
b) operador de programas de conservación.
El perfil de cada puesto, sueldo, requisitos, etc., puedes obtenerlos por medio de e-mail. El auxiliar técnico se requiere urgente y la contratación es inmediata.
Pida informes a Eugenio Villanueva (villanuevafranck@yahoo.com.mx)

VIII Congreso Mexicano de Etnobiología

La Universidad Juárez Autónoma de Tabasco (UJAT) y la Asociación Etnobiológica Mexicana, A.C., convocan a profesionistas y estudiantes de etnobiología, al "VIII Congreso Mexicano de Etnobiología, del 23 al 27 de abril del 2012, en Villahermosa (Tabasco). Fecha límite para recepción de resúmenes: 30 de septiembre del 2011.
Vea los detalles en:
http://www.asociacionetnobiologica.org.mx/mx2/administrator/convocatoria%20III%201.pdf

asistente para la construccion de bases de datos relacionales, ECOSUR

El Colegio de la Frontera Sur (ECOSUR) solicita asistente para la construccion de bases de datos relacionales. Se busca persona con licenciatura en biología y experienciao estudios de posgrado acerca de la estructuación de bases de datos relacionales, para participar en amplio proyecto multidisciplinario. La recepción de solicitudes cierra el 25 de septiembre del 2011.
Pida informes a Mario González (mgonzale@ecosur.mx)

oportunidad de realizar tesis en licenciatura o maestría, Instituto de Ecología, A.C.

El Instituto de Ecología, A.C., en Xalapa (Veracruz), a través del proyecto "Variación genética en el pez marino Abudefduf saxatilis: el efecto de la historia, procesos ecológicos y el sistema de apareamiento", tiene varias oportunidad de realizar tesis en licenciatura o maestría.
Pida informes a Oscar Ríos

cinco vacantes para el puesto de "Anfitrión y Guía Escolar", Mariposario del Zoo Chapultepec

El Mariposario del Zoológico de Chapultepec (1a. Sección del Bosque, en México, Distrito Federal) tiene cinco vacantes para el puesto de "Anfitrión y Guía Escolar", encargado de la atención al público visitante en la exhibición del Mariposario e insectario, promoción y venta de boletos, asi como atención a visitas escolares. Los detalles del puesto pueden ser obtenidos por e-mail. Pida informes a Leticia Pablo
Vea los detalles en http://www.mariposario.org.mx/

Colegio de la Frontera Sur convoca a investigadores

El Colegio de la Frontera Sur convoca a investigadores que deseen ocupar una plaza de investigador de tiempo completo en la Unidad Tapachula, en los temas: Hongos tropicales; Biotecnología ambiental; Manejo integral de zona costera y marina; Ecología y manejo sustentable de la flora del sureste de México; Salud forestal; Economía agrícola y ambiental; Migraciones en la frontera sur de México; Agroecología y ordenamiento territorial.
Vea los detalles en: http://www.ecosur.mx/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1473&Itemid=1277&lang=esp

PhD position in evolutionary ecology of invasive wild radish populations in Australia

The evolutionary basis of invasiveness in weeds is a rapidly developing area of theoretical and empirical research. This project will explore possible mechanisms that influence invasiveness using wild radish (Raphanus raphanistrum) as a model system. You will use a phylogeographic approach, incorporating both chloroplast and SSR markers, to ascertain the colonisation history of wild radish in Australia and relate this to the evolution of invasiveness in this highly successful weed. This study should increase our understanding of the ecological and evolutionary significance of several possible mechanisms that generate invasiveness including evolution of the breeding system and intra-and inter-specific introgression.
This 3 year studentship would be co-located at the University of Canberra and the the CSIRO Division of Plant Industry. At CSIRO the student would work with Professor Andrew Young and Dr Jenny Pierson and at the University of Canberra with Assistant Professor Paul Downey.
For details of University of Canberra graduate scholarhips and requirements please go to: http://www.canberra.edu.au/centres/iae/index.php
Contact: Assistant Professor Paul Downey (UC) or Professor Andrew Young (CSIRO, www.csiro.au) Email: andrew.young@csiro.au or Paul.Downey@canberra.edu.au

Graduate assistantship in population biology, University of South Florida

A graduate assistantship in population ecology is available starting Fall semester, 2012, to work on our NSF-funded project on "Demographic heterogeneity in landscapes and communities." Applicants to both Ph.D. and M.S. programs will be considered, but preference will be given to the former. The position is fully funded for 2 years. Beyond that time, there are normally a substantial number of teaching assistantships available in our department for well-qualified students.
We seek a motivated student to work on data analysis and demographic models of population growth and its components, using data from the long-term study of Florida scrub-jays at Archbold Biological Station (ABS). The graduate student will play a central role in developing and maintaining a database for use in the research, and in the development, coding, and evaluation of models for the population dynamics of this species, as well as in statistical analyses of the data. The student will also interact with collaborating scientists at the University of California, Santa Barbara, and ABS. This is an unusual opportunity to dissect some major components of dynamics of a natural population.
Qualifications: Applicants must exceed the requirements for admission to our graduate program. Quantitative skills and a background in population biology are important.
Salary & benefits: A stipend of $22,000 per calendar year, medical insurance per the University's contract with the graduate student union, and full coverage of tuition (does not include fees).
To apply: For initial application, send CV and GRE scores to Gordon Fox (gfox@usf.edu). Advance informal inquiries are strongly encouraged. You must also complete the application to our graduate program.
Deadline: Review of applications will begin February 1, 2012.
Dr. Gordon A. Fox
http://foxlab.cas.usf.edu

Two PhD, Monash University, Melbourne

Two PhD projects will be offered from 2012 in the Evolutionary & Invasion Biology research group at Monash University, Melbourne, Australia (http://www.biolsci.monash.edu.au/staff/chapple/).
The two projects are part of a long-term research project on the invasion
dynamics of the delicate skink, *Lampropholis delicata*. The delicate skink
is native to eastern Australia, but has successfully invaded several regions
of the Pacific (New Zealand, Hawaiian Islands, Lord Howe Island). Previous
research in the group has used molecular markers to identify the source
population(s) for each introduction, examined post-introduction molecular
and morphological evolution, and investigated the behavioural traits that
enhance the likelihood of human-assisted dispersal.

Project 1: The role of behaviour and behavioural syndromes in the invasion
success of the delicate skink:
Recent research has indicated that particular behavioural traits, or suites
of correlated traits (behavioural syndromes), may enhance the success of
introduced species at particular stages of the invasion process. The project
will use a series of field and laboratory-based studies to investigate the
role of behaviour in the success of the delicate skink as an invasive
species. The project will be co-supervised by Dr Bob Wong (Monash
University).

Project 2: Evolutionary ecology and climatic adaptation of invasive delicate
skink populations:
This project will involve a series of field and laboratory-based experiments
to investigate climatic adaptation in *Lampropholis* and the invasive
populations of the delicate skink. The study will examine populations across
both the native and introduced range. It will also examine the behavioural
interactions in the introduced range among individuals from genetically
divergent source populations (i.e admixture). The project will be
co-supervised by Prof Mike Thompson (University of Sydney).

Interested students should email their CV (including details of two academic
referees), academic record, and research interests to Dr David Chapple (
David.Chapple@monash.edu) by Monday 3rd October. For each project, one
applicant will be selected to complete and submit an online PhD scholarship
application by the 31st October deadline (a mid-year scholarship round
[31stMay] may be available for highly-qualified students who are
unable to make the October deadline).
Students will need to successfully obtain a PhD scholarship. Australian and
New Zealand citizens can apply for an Australian Postgraduate Award (APA) or
Monash Graduate Scholarship (MGS). International students can apply for an
IPRS or Monash Graduate Scholarship. For further information regarding PhD
entry requirements see: http://www.mrgs.monash.edu.au/scholarships/apply/
Dr David Chapple
Lecturer in Evolutionary & Invasion Biology
School of Biological Sciences
Monash University
Clayton VIC 3800, Australia
david.chapple@monash.edu
Website: http://www.biolsci.monash.edu.au/staff/chapple/

Graduate School in Animal Breeding and Genetics offers PhD positions

I am pleased to inform you that the European Graduate School in Animal
Breeding and Genetics offers PhD positions scheduled to start in
September 2012. Erasmus-Mundus fellowships are available for non-EU and
EU students. For the list of PhD projects, see:
http://www.egsabg.eu/spip.php?article13
Information about the first year of this programme are available in our
Newsletter:
http://www.egsabg.eu/IMG/pdf/EGS-ABG_Newsletter_2011-1.pdf

PhD Behavioural ecology of house sparrows, Max Planck Institute

A PhD position is available at the Max Planck Institute for Ornithology
in Seewiesen (near Munich, Germany) starting in autumn/winter 2011 to
study the ecological causes of variation in reproductive behaviour in a
population of captive house sparrows (Passer domesticus).
We seek a highly motivated student with a background or strong interest
in ecology, evolution, and behaviour. The ideal candidate is fascinated
by questions in behavioural ecology, has a good knowledge of statistical
analysis and excellent writing and presentation skills. He/she will be
expected to work independently and creatively in the field with the
possibility to develop her/his own research questions. Commitment to the
project and readiness to contribute to the research of the group are
essential.
Our department has a main focus on the ecology and evolution of avian
mating systems using a variety of model species. The research on the
house sparrows involves a long-term captive breeding population. Our aim
is to understand the ecological factors influencing reproductive
decisions of individuals from mating to parental care. The work will
involve developing and conducting experiments, breeding captive birds,
behavioural testing and observations, data base management, and possibly
parentage analysis.
The institute offers a stimulating international environment and an
excellent infrastructure with access to state-of-the-art techniques.
Seewiesen is located in an attractive area, close to the culturally
active city of Munich, and to the lakes and mountains of the Alps.
The position is funded for three years, starting as soon as 1 November
2011. Applications should include a concise statement of research
interests and work experiences relevant to the project, curriculum vitae
and contact details for 2-3 academic references. Please send your
application as a single file (Word-doc or pdf) to cdobus@orn.mpg.de. For
further information please do not hesitate to contact Prof. Dr. Bart
Kempenaers at b.kempenaers@orn.mpg.de.
The Max Planck Society is an equal opportunity employer.

PhD position in plant ecology and evolution, University of Zürich

A four year PhD position funded by the European Research Council (ERC)
is available from January 2012 at the Institute of Systematic Botany,
University of Zürich, to study the evolution of floral signals. A focus
of the project will be the trade-off between attraction of pollinators
and defense against herbivores. The behavioral impact of floral signals
on pollinators and herbivores and/or the molecular bases of floral
volatile production will be studied. In addition, evolutionary models
will be constructed to predict the evolutionary responses of floral
signals to different biotic environments. The project is embedded
in the larger context of the ERC grant on floral signal evolution;
thus, close collaboration with other PhD students working on this
topic is expected. You should have a Master or equivalent academic
degree, a keen interest in evolutionary biology, and a background in
either molecular or organismal biology. Enthusiasm for experimental
work with plants and insects is required. The successful candidate
will work in a very well equipped institute and an exciting research
environment. The Institute of Systematic Botany at the University of
Zürich consists of 3 professors and 6 academic staff, as well as a
large group of PostDocs, PhDs, and Master students. The institute is
located in the pretty botanical gardens and houses modern molecular and
chemical ecology labs, including greenhouses and climate chambers for
plant cultivation. The University of Zürich has a very broad coverage
of organismal and molecular biology, and several research groups work
on evolutionary topics (www.lifescience-zurich.ch). The city also offers
excellent quality of life through cultural programs and infrastructure,
as well as an attractive surrounding (lake, alps).
If you are interested in the job, please send (preferentially by e-mail)
a letter describing your motivation, C.V., copy of degrees, publications
(or manuscripts, if available), and e-mail addresses of two academic
referees, by 15th of October 2011. If you have further questions, don't
hesitate to contact me.
Prof. Florian Schiestl
Institute of Systematic Botany
Zollikerstrasse 107
CH-8008 Zürich
florian.schiestl@systbot.uzh.ch

Systematics and Herpetology in Washington, D.C.

The Pyron Lab at The George Washington University seeks Master's and
doctoral students for the Fall of 2012 who are interested in historical
biogeography, phylogeography, and the theory and practice of systematics.
Graduate students will be part of the Robert Weintraub Program in
Systematics and Evolution in the Department of Biological Sciences, a joint
graduate program of GWU and the National Museum of Natural History at the
Smithsonian. The major areas of research in my lab are global and regional
drivers of biodiversity, speciation processes and phylogeographic patterns,
and the development of statistical methods in phylogenetics and systematics.
I invite students to develop their own fully-fledged, independent research
projects along these lines. Empirical research in the lab primarily focuses
on reptiles and amphibians.
The program at GWU offers fantastic opportunities for anyone interested in
systematics and evolutionary biology. In addition to my research, faculty in
the department work on a wide variety of topics in evolution. The Weintraub
program is affiliated with the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural
History, providing for SI curators to co-advise students, and access to one
of the best natural history collections in the world. Finally, Washington,
D.C. is full of historical, cultural, and culinary amenities. The biology
buildings are only four blocks west of the White House.
If you are interested, please go to my website (http://www.colubroid.org/)
for more information. Various funding opportunities are available for
well-qualified applicants. Experience with molecular, computational, and
field collection techniques is an important consideration. Interested
persons should email me with a CV, research interests, and GRE scores. The
deadline for application to GWU is 15 January 2012.

The Finnish graduate school in population genetics

The Finnish graduate school in population genetics
The graduate school in population genetics is funded by the Ministry
of Education and Culture and the Academy of Finland. The school builds
a doctoral program and trains graduate students in the broad area of
population genetics. The students take formal courses and carry out
research work and complete a doctoral thesis in about four years.
The students entering the school should join a research project
led by one of the supervisors that are members of the school. The
topics covered by different projects include evolutionary genetics,
bioinformatics, genetic epidemiology, gene mapping, plant and animal
breeding, conservation genetics, molecular anthropology and archaeology,
and risks associated with GMO (more information can be found at
http://www.oulu.fi/biology/PopGenSchool/index.html). The working place
depends on the research group and the supervisor. The minimum starting
salary (1740 EUR) is set by the Ministry of Education and Culture
which finances the graduate school, but the local university (research
group) normally pays a somewhat higher salary. The positions include
minor teaching duties. Each student will apply for study rights for a
Ph.D. at the University they have chosen. The criteria can differ between
Universities and more information on the Ph.D. studies at each university
can be found for Oulu at http://www.oulu.fi/yliopisto/uniogs, for Helsinki
at http://www.helsinki.fi/admissions/postgraduate_applicants.htm
and for Turku at
http://www.utu.fi/en/studying/students/degree/postgraduate/index.html.

The school announces five positions for PhD students, starting at the
beginning of 2012. The positions are maximally for four years. The
application should include (when applicable):

1. Filled application form which can be found at
http://www.oulu.fi/biology/PopGenSchool/news.htm
2. CV including the topic and grade of MSc thesis (max 2 pages)
3. a list of publications
4. a training plan for PhD studies (what type of formal training,
courses etc you would like to have)
5. a short (half a page) description of a career plan (why this
type of training)
6. a plan for PhD research (a research plan or a good description of the
direction the student wants to take), including information on
potential supervisors (max 2 pages)
7. contact information of two referees

Please send the filled application form to lumi.viljakainen@oulu.fi.
The other documents (2.-7.) should be sent (as a single pdf-file) to
kirjaamo@oulu.fi (subject: Application for Population Genetics
Graduate School position) or by regular mail University of Oulu,
Kirjaamo, PL 8000, 90014 University of Oulu, Finland). The deadline
for the applications is 14 October 2011 by 3PM.

If necessary, some of the applicants may be invited for an interview
in early November. The results of the call will be published on the
graduate school web page by November 15. The students chosen for the
positions or those on the reserve list will be notified by personal
email.

For additional information, please contact Outi Savolainen
(Outi.Savolainen@oulu.fi) or the coordinator of the school
(Lumi.Viljakainen@oulu.fi) or directly the project leader you would
like to work with
(http://www.oulu.fi/biology/PopGenSchool/index.html).

Ph.D. Opportunities in Evolutionary Ecology, Syracuse University

We are seeking exceptional students interested in studying the evolutionary
ecology of species interactions in a dynamic, multi-lab setting. Our labs
focus on studies of mutualism, coevolution, specialization, and speciation,
and we use a combination of diverse tools including field studies,
molecular phylogenetics, and population genetics. Although we primarily
examine plant-insect and parasitoid-host coevolution, students interested in
other taxonomic groups are strongly encouraged to apply. Research is
question-driven rather than taxon-driven. Please visit our faculty pages
for more information about ongoing projects in our labs
(http://biology.syr.edu).
For successful candidates, funding is guaranteed via teaching assistantships
and research assistantships are pending. Syracuse University offers
excellent benefits, a full tuition waiver, and a generous stipend (~$25K for
2011). Furthermore, the close proximity of S.U. to SUNY-Environmental
Science and Forestry and Cornell makes this a strong and vibrant community
that facilitates an exciting graduate experience.

Ph.D. positions in the Segraves and Althoff labs are available for Spring
and Fall 2012.
Prospective students are encouraged to contact either Dr.
Kari Segraves (ksegrave@syr.edu) or Dr. David Althoff (dmalthof@syr.edu) and
to complete a free, on-line pre-application form available at:
http://biology.syr.edu/grad/pre_app.htm.

PhD position in ant ecology, University of Mainz, Germany

We invite applications for a PhD position in tropical ant ecology at the
University of Mainz, Germany. The PhD candidate will study and compare
the ecosystem functions of ant communities in the tropical rainforests
of South America and Southeast Asia. He/she will use standardized
experiments to assess the performance of different ant species in a
set of ecosystem functions that are related to food consumption and the
defense of food resources.
The overall aims of the project are to assess functional redundancy and
niche differentiation of ant communities in tropical rainforests. The
studies will take place in primary and disturbed rainforests in French
Guiana and Malaysian Borneo, and the results will be compared between
habitats, but also between French Guiana and Borneo to determine
whether the functional niche differentiation in ant communities evolved
convergently on the two continents.
The position requires a recent diploma or master degree in biology or
a related field. The successful candidate should be highly motivated
and have experience with field experiments and entomology. A driving
licence is necessary; expertise in ant identification and statistics
is advantageous. The project involves a four-month stay each in French
Guiana and Malaysian Borneo. The position (65% TV-L E13) is funded by
the DFG and limited to three years.
Interested candidates should send applications as a single e-mail
attachment (pdf) containing a curriculum vitae, a list of publications,
a pdf of the Master or Diploma thesis, a letter of motivation and
the addresses of two potential referees to Dr. Florian Menzel,
menzelf@uni-mainz.de.
Closing date for applications is October 5th, 2011.
Starting date for the position is November 15th, 2011 or by arrangement.
For further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Dr. Florian Menzel
Evolutionary Biology
Institute of Zoology
Johannes-v.-Müller-Weg 6
D-55128 Mainz
menzelf@uni-mainz.de

PhD Sexual selection in salmonids under global change, St Pée/Nivelle, France

We are seeking a postgraduate student for a 3-year PhD (starting in fall 2011) on the interplay between the choice of spawning site, early stage survival and sexual selection in brown trout. The project is managed by researchers from the UMR INRA-UPPA ECOBIOP (St Pée/Nivelle, France) and the Stream Ecology Group at University of Basque Country (Bilbao, Spain).
More information on: http://www.bordeaux-aquitaine.inra.fr/st_pee/
Candidates should be kin on field work, and competent in experimental procedures and statistical / theoretical modeling. Please send application (CV, name of two referees) to jacques.labonne@st-pee.inra.fr and cedric.tentelier@univ-pau.fr before the end of september 2011.
http://www.bordeaux-aquitaine.inra.fr/st_pee/

PhD-position in evolutionary genomics, Fribourg University

PhD-position in evolutionary genomics is available in a collaborative project of the research groups of Dieter Ebert (University of Basel, Switzerland) and Christoph Haag (University of Fribourg, Switzerland).
We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with interest in
evolutionary genomics. A solid background in bio-informatics, genomics,
and/or evolutionary genetics is helpful. The position is funded to
work on mitotic recombination during asexual reproduction in Daphnia,
but the exact project will be worked out together with the successful
candidate. Previous experience with Daphnia is not required, yet excellent
written, verbal, and interpersonal skills, good work ethics, and the
ability to think creatively and critically are desired. The starting
date is from November 2011 onwards.
The PhD student will be mainly located at Fribourg University, but will
work in close collaboration with the group in Basel, where a second
PhD student works on a related project. Details about the groups can be
found on the following pages:
http://www.unifr.ch/biol/ecology/haag/haag_lab_home.html
http://evolution.unibas.ch/
Please send your application by E-mail to Christoph Haag
(christoph.haag@unifr.ch). Applications should include a single
pdf-file containing CV, a list of publications and a 1 page description
of your research interests and motivation. Please give names and
email addresses of two persons who are willing to write a letter of
recommendation. Applications received before 30 September 2010 will be
given full consideration. Interviews will be held as soon as possible
afterwards.
Contact information:
Dr. Christoph Haag
University of Fribourg
Department of Biology
Chemin du Musée 10
CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland
Email: christoph.haag@unifr.ch

Prof. Dr. Dieter Ebert,
University of Basel,
Zoologisches Institut,
Vesalgasse 1,
CH-4051 Basel, Switzerland,
Email: dieter.ebert@unibas.ch

Munich, Germany: PhD position in Vertebrate Palaeontology and Macroevolution

Munich, Germany: PhD position in Vertebrate Palaeontology and Macroevolution, GeoBio-Center of the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU)
We invite applications for a PhD position within the GeoBio-Center of
the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU), Munich. The successful
student will join a new independent junior research group funded by
the Emmy Noether Programme of the German Research Foundation (DFG).
The research group will be led by Dr. Richard Butler, and will focus
on the systematics and macroevolutionary patterns of the initial
evolutionary radiation of archosauromorphs (archosaurs and closely
related reptiles) in the early Mesozoic.
The PhD project will be funded for three years beginning December
2011, with extensive travel funding available for visits to
palaeontological collections worldwide and attendance of international
conferences and courses. The successful student will gain skills in
quantitative analysis of macroevolutionary and biogeographical
patterns, phylogenetics, comparative anatomy, taxonomy, and modern
imaging and databasing techniques (e.g. CT scanning, Morphobank,
Paleobiology Database). Further details of the topic of the PhD
research are available on request from Richard Butler
(r.butler@lrz.uni-muenchen.de).
Requirements: The ideal candidate will be highly motivated with an
excellent academic record and will possess a strong background in
palaeontology or zoology, with prior experience or knowledge of
vertebrate anatomy and diversity as well as modern approaches to
systematics and taxonomy highly desirable. Strong quantitative skills,
experience with analysis of macroevolutionary analysis such as body
size evolution or diversity patterns, and knowledge of specialist
software (e.g. R, Mesquite, TNT) would be advantageous. Students
should hold a Master's degree or equivalent by the beginning of the
PhD program. Excellent written and spoken English is required. German
language skills are beneficial but not essential because the language
of the workgroup will be English (however, funding will be available
for the successful student to attend German language classes if
required).
Application: Applications should include: (1) a detailed curriculum
vitae; (2) a covering letter summarising their experience, motivation
and goals in applying for the project; (3) supporting letters from two
or three academic advisors/referees. Applications should be sent to
Richard Butler (r.butler@lrz.uni-muenchen.de) and Frau Monica
Brinkrolf (m.brinkrolf@lrz.uni-muenchen.de) by Friday 7th October
2011.
Further details are available at http://tinyurl.com/3murthb.
Dr. Richard J. Butler
GeoBio-Center, Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU)
Richard-Wagner-Str. 10
80333 Munich, Germany
mailto:butler.richard.j@gmail.com
r.butler@lrz.uni-muenchen.de
https://sites.google.com/site/richardbutlerpalaeontologist/
butler.richard.j@googlemail.com

PhD position, evolution of sex differences in ageing, Department of Animal Ecology, Uppsala University

PhD position in the evolution of sex differences in ageing is available
at the Department of Animal Ecology, Uppsala University, Sweden in
Alexei Maklakov's lab. The position is funded by an ERC Starting Grant
2010.
This position is part of large research program with a primary objective
to understand the evolution of sex differences in lifespan, and in
reproductive and cognitive ageing. The current project will focus on the
interactions between sex, learning, memory and ageing in the dioecious
nematode worm /Caenorhabditis remanei/, a recently established model
system in our lab. These animals offer fantastic opportunities for
experimental work on sex-specific trade-offs. The project is in
collaboration with Dr. Niclas Kolm from our department and will combine
experimental evolution and behavioural ecology approaches. There is a
possibility to develop and apply an RNAi knockdown technique in
collaboration with Dr. Andrea Hinas from Biomedical Centre at UU. The
main direction of the project will be shaped by a student reflecting
his/her interests.
Applicants should have a MSc (or equivalent) in biology/ecology and a
strong interest in evolutionary biology. Special interest in the
evolution of life-histories and/or sexual selection is a plus. The
project is supervised by Alexei Maklakov and the candidate will receive
her/his postgraduate training within the postgraduate school at the
Evolutionary Biology Centre (EBC). The candidate will join an
interprogram Ageing Research Group, which will open many opportunities
for collaborative projects with other group members. The working
atmosphere is international with English as working language.
This position is financed for four full years, and the successful
candidate will receive a postgraduate fellowship the first year (15.500
SEK/month) and a postgraduate position year 2-4 (22.400 - 25.100 SEK/month).
*Important points: The position is open until filled. To start as soon
as possible, but the exact starting date can be negotiated.*
**
Applications should include: 1) short letter of interest / background (2
pages max); 2) complete CV; 3) a description of undergraduate training;
4) a copy of undergraduate degree and 5) the names and e-mail addresses
of 2-3 referees. Applications should be sent by e-mail to
Alexei.Maklakov(at)ebc.uu.se (replace
(at) with @ to dodge spammers).
Alternatively, send hardcopies to the following address: Alexei
Maklakov, Animal Ecology, EBC, Norbyvägen 18D, Uppsala University,
SE-752 36 Uppsala, Sweden. Please feel free to contact me via e-mail for
more information.
*Links: *
*Maklakov
Lab:*http://www.ebc.uu.se/Research/IEG/zooeko/People/Alexei_Maklakov/
*Ageing Research
Group:*http://www.ebc.uu.se/Research/groups/ageing/projects/
*EBC:*http://www.ebc.uu.se/index_eng.php
We are looking for a PhD student to study quantitative trait variation
in a long-term study of mountain goats. The study is a long-term
collaboration between Steeve Côté (Laval University) and Dave Coltman
(University of Alberta). The research involves demanding fieldwork at
Caw Ridge, Alberta, for several weeks per year as well as genotyping
and DNA sequencing in a state of the art molecular ecology laboratory.
Prospective candidates must have an M.Sc. or B.Sc. (Hons.) degree with
research experience in evolutionary ecology and be competitive for
institutional, provincial and national scholarships. Canadians and
non-Canadians are welcome to apply.
The student will be based at the University of Alberta, Department of
Biological Sciences (http://www.biology.ualberta.ca/programs/graduate)
in the Coltman lab
(http://www.biology.ualberta.ca/faculty/david_coltman/). PhD students
in Biological Sciences have access to 5 years of guaranteed funding.

If you have some combination of the following qualifications and assets:
- field experience
- molecular ecology laboratory experience
- background in population or quantitative genetics
- publication track record
- experience in or willingness to learn bioinformatics and genomics
- ability to work in a team
- fluency in English and familiarity with French (or better)
and you wish to apply, contact Dave Coltman (dcoltman@ualberta.ca)
with your CV, statement of research interests, and names of 2
referees.

Two PhD positions, School of Biological Sciences at the University of Auckland

Two PhD positions, in the School of Biological Sciences at the
University of Auckland and funded by the Allan Wilson Centre for
Molecular Ecology and Evolution, are available in insect genomics and
genome evolution. These positions will be based at Landcare Research
on the Tamaki campus of the University of Auckland. Both students
will be primarily supervised by Thomas Buckley and co-supervised by
Richard Newcomb and Howard Ross, all of the Allan Wilson Centre and the
University of Auckland. The successful candidates will have an interest
and experience in bioinformatic analysis of genomic data and computational
evolutionary biology.
Project 1: Genome evolution, speciation and molecular population genetics
of giant weta. Giant weta (Insecta, Orthoptera) are the largest insects on earth
and some species are highly endangered. This project involves genome
sequencing a species of giant weta using Illumina technology, followed by
genome assembly, annotation and comparative analysis. The draft genome
will be used as a template for downstream transcriptome and RAD-tag
studies of variation within and among other giant weta species. The
transcriptome studies will target various phenotypic characteristics such
as reproductive and sensory processes. The data will be used to examine
processes of adaptation within and among species. The conservation
implications of these data will be an important aspect of the research.

Project 2: Genome evolution, speciation and molecular population genetics
of stick insects. The common stick insect (Clitarchus hookeri) is widespread through
much of New Zealand. This species is particularly interesting at it is
a geographic parthenogen and is closely related to other species, one
of which it has hybridized with. The successful candidate will perform
Illumina sequencing and assemble and annotate a draft genome of this
stick insect species. The draft genome will be used as a scaffold for
further RAD-tag studies of SNP variation within C. hookeri and among
closely related species. Transcriptome data will also be collected and
mapped to the draft genome for study of various phenotypic traits and
selection and adaptation. Variation will be measured and compared within
and among populations of C. hookeri and with closely related species.

Funding includes a $25,000 NZD per year scholarship and $5,000 for tuition fees.
For more information and host institutions and supervisors' research
interests see the following links:
http://www.allanwilsoncentre.ac.nz/
http://www.landcareresearch.co.nz/
Associate Professor Thomas Buckley
http://www.bioscienceresearch.co.nz/staff/thomas_buckley/
http://www.landcareresearch.co.nz/research/staff_page.asp?staff_num=3D1110
Associate Professor Richard Newcomb
http://www.bioscienceresearch.co.nz/staff/richard-newcomb/
Dr Howard Ross
http://www.bioscienceresearch.co.nz/staff/howard-ross/

To apply for either of these position please contact Thomas Buckley
at the email address below. Potential candidates should submit a CV,
two references, and a short statement of research interests to:
Thomas Buckley
Research Group Leader, Landcare Research
Associate Professor, University of Auckland
buckleyt@landcareresearch.co.nz
http://www.landcareresearch.co.nz/research/staff_page.asp?staff_num=1110

PhD student, Institute for Evolutionary Biology in Plön, Germany

We are a seeking a motivated PhD student to join our research team
working on the interaction of evolution and ecology at the Max Planck
Institute for Evolutionary Biology in Plön, Germany.
Evolution in action has recently been recognized as an important
player for many ecological interactions. It is now well recognized
that evolutionary change can affect the interaction between species
within in a few generations and that ecological interactions may
influence the outcome of evolution in return. This project uses fast
growing aquatic organisms (algae, viruses, rotifers) that allow
tracking of evolutionary change and ecological dynamics in combination
with subsequent analysis through mathematical modeling. For details of
the study system refer to Becks et al. 2010 Ecology Letters, Becks &
Agrawal 2010 Nature, Ellner & Becks 2011 Theoretical Ecology.
We are looking for a highly motivated ecologist or evolutionary
biologist to join our newly formed group ?Community dynamics? at the
Max Planck institute for Evolutionary Biology. The ideal candidate is
fascinated by evolutionary and ecological questions, independent and
creative. She/he has a background in evolutionary biology, population
or community ecology and has worked with aquatic systems before. A MSc
(or equivalent) in Biology is required. For more information on the
project contact Lutz Becks (lbecks@evolbio.mpg.de).
The position is funded for three years, starting as soon as January
2012. Please apply by sending your CV, including the email addresses
of two referees, and a letter of motivation to Lutz Becks
(lbecks@evolbio.mpg.de). Review of applications will continue until
the position is filled.
The Max Planck Society is an equal opportunity employer.
LBecks@uni-koeln.de

PhD-position: Univ Tuebingen - Sexual selection

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate with a genuine interest
in reproductive and evolutionary biology to conduct and coordinate a
3-year German Science Foundation (DFG) funded project on sexually
selected traits and their evolution. Candidates with a Diplom/Master
degree in Biology or a related field should preferentially have
experience in designing behavioural experiments and/or in molecular
techniques (microsatellite/SNP genotyping). The annual salary according
to German TV-L E13 (50%) allows a good living and approximates 15,000€
after taxes depending on experience and marital status.
The project at the Animal Evolutionary Ecology group
(http://www.evoeco.uni-tuebingen.de/) aims at quantifying how the social
environment and within-individual trade-offs affect the sex-specific
intensity and direction of sexual selection in a hermaphroditic model
system, the freshwater snail Biomphalaria glabrata. A basic framework
for integrating effects of self-fertilisation and variation in offspring
quality into fitness quantifications has recently been developed (Anthes
et al. 2010, Amer. Nat. 176:249-263) and seeks innovative further
development within this project.
Applicants preferentially submit a single pdf-file containing a short
motivation letter, a CV including 2 reference addresses, and a brief
summary of their thesis to nils.anthes@uni-tuebingen.de. Applications
will be reviewed until the position has been filled. In case of equal
quality, applicants with disabilities will be preferred. The University
of Tuebingen aims at increasing the representation of women and
therefore encourages female students to apply.

Dr. Nils Anthes
Animal Evolutionary Ecology Group
University of Tuebingen
Faculty of Science, Dep. of Biology
Institute of Evolution and Ecology
Auf der Morgenstelle 28
D-72076 Tuebingen, Germany
E-Mail: nils.anthes@uni-tuebingen.de
http://www.evoeco.uni-tuebingen.de/

PhD, Institute Cavanilles for Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology (University of Valencia, Spain)

The Institute Cavanilles for Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology (University of Valencia, Spain) offers a 4-year PhD fellowship under the supervision of Dr. Rafael Sanjuán to work on virus mutation and evolution. The project, funded by the European Research Council, aims at studying mutational processes in several RNA viruses including HIV-1 and hepatitis C virus. For more information on the research group, please visit www.uv.es/rsanjuan
Candidates should contact Rafael Sanjuán by email (rafael.sanjuan@uv.es)

Ph D, Institute of Evolutionary Biology. Barcelona, Spain. Adaptive evolution

Institute of Evolutionary Biology. Barcelona, Spain. Adaptive evolution
A PhD position is available at the Institute of Evolutionary Biology (IBE), a joint research institute between the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) and the Pompeu Fabra Universityvie
A PhD position is available at the Institute of Evolutionary Biology (IBE), a joint research institute between the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) and the Pompeu Fabra University (UPF) located in Barcelona, Spain. The student will join a collaborative research group studying the molecular process and functional consequences of adaptation.
The project includes a combination of state-of-the-art and classical techniques such as next-generation sequencing data, population genetics, gene expression and experimental evolution analyses that will be applied to the study of mutations identified in natural populations.
We are looking for highly motivated candidates willing to work both independently and in collaboration with other members of the research group. Applicants should have a degree in Biology or a related field. In addition, laboratory experience in molecular genetics and/or computational biology is desired.
Interested candidates should send a CV and statement of interest to Dr. Josefa González: josefa.gonzalez@ibe.upf-csic.es
A first round of applications will be accepted until 15th September 2011.
Later applications will be accepted until 15th December 2011.
Josefa González, PhD
Ramon y Cajal Researcher
Institut de Biologia Evolutiva
Passeig Maritim de la Barceloneta 37-49
Barcelona, 08003. Spain.
www.stanford.edu/~jgonzalp

PhD student position in Plant Evolutionary Genomics, Umeå University

A PhD student position is available with a continuing project to study natural hybridization and introgression between Populus trichocarpa and Populus fremontii in California and Nevada. Next-generation sequencing and genotyping approaches will be used to investigate the causes and consequences of gene flow between the two species. Collaborative opportunities exist with the Canadian Forest Service for comparative analyses with the P. balsamifera and P. deltoides hybrid system, as well as other established research groups that work on Populus here in Umeå.
Knowledge of population genetics, evolutionary analyses, molecular methods and bioinformatics is highly desirable. Experience with fieldwork is an asset, but not a requirement. The successful applicant should possess creativity, autonomy and a dedicated team spirit. Excellent proficiency in English is required, as English is the working language in the research group and at the department. The anticipated start date is January 2012, although alternative dates can be negotiated.
A complete version of this announcement is available at http://www8.umu.se/umu/aktuellt/arkiv/lediga_tjanster/313-767-11.html#eng
Your application should include a short description of your research interests and why you are interested in the position, CV, certificates from higher education, copies of Bachelors/Masters thesis, and contact information for 3 references.
For more information, contact Stacey Lee Thompson, stacey.thompson@emg.umu.se
Your complete application, marked with reference number 313-767-11, should be sent to jobb@umu.se (state the reference number as subject) or to the Registrar, Umeå University, SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden to arrive September 30, 2011 at the latest.

PhD positions, Münster Graduate School of Evolution

The University of Münster invites applications from outstanding candidates for PhD positions within its "Münster Graduate School of Evolution" (MGSE) Initiative.
7 PhD positions (50% TV-L E13, 3 years) For Interdisciplinary Evolution Research in Biology, Medicine, Mathematics, or Philosophy within the "Münster Graduate School of Evolution" Initiative
We invite applications for PhD projects from all research areas of MGSE. In addition to their disciplinary focus, the proposed projects will have an interdisciplinary aspect. The PhD candidates will be members of a specific lab/group and will be co-supervised by one or two MGSE researchers from different disciplines. Project supervisors will also be open for proposals of new project ideas. The positions are to be filled as soon as possible.
Applicants must hold a Diploma/Master degree or an equivalent in a discipline related to the project. Interested candidates should submit their Curriculum Vitae, diploma/master thesis abstract, and references. In addition candidates should also provide a designation of the favoured project, as well as a description of their expectations and motivations to apply for an interdisciplinary programme.
This should be sent as a single PDF file to andreas.wessel@uni-muenster.de to arrive by *3^rd October 2011*.
The University of Münster is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity employer committed to excellence through diversity.
For more information refer to the MGSE website (http://ieb.uni-muenster.de/mgsei/) or contact
Prof Joachim Kurtz
Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, WWU Münster, Hüfferstraße 1,
D-48149, Germany
joachim.kurtz@uni-muenster.de

Ph.D. student with an interest in modeling coevolving species interactions, University of Idaho

Graduate Position in Coevolutionary Biology
The Nuismer lab at the University of Idaho is recruiting a Ph.D. student with an interest in modeling coevolving species interactions. This position is available starting in fall 2012 and will provide support in the form of a research assistantship for three years as part of a project funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF). The general goal of this project is to better understand how the number of traits involved in interactions between species influences the coevolutionary process. Although it is expected that a portion of the student's dissertation will be directly related to the objectives of the funded project, much flexibility exists with regard to additional dissertation projects that may be pursued. Although some background in mathematics and/or computation is desirable, any prospective student with an enthusiasm for learning new mathematical approaches to studying evolutionary biology is encouraged to apply.
Interested students should visit the Nuismer laboratory homepage (http://www.webpages.uidaho.edu/~snuismer/Nuismer_Lab/) for more information about ongoing research projects in the lab, and the Department of Biology and Graduate Program in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology at the University of Idaho.
If you are interested in this opportunity please send a CV and a statement outlining your motivation for pursuing graduate studies in coevolutionary biology.
Cheers,
Scott Nuismer
Associate Professor
Department of Biological Sciences
University of Idaho
Moscow, Idaho 83844
http://www.webpages.uidaho.edu/~snuismer/Nuismer_Lab/

PhD position in molluscan biomineralisation at the University of Goettingen, Germany

A 3 year PhD position is available within the Courant Research Centre Geobiology to work on the molecular mechanisms of shell formation in the freshwater gastropod Lymnaea stagnalis. The successful candidate will join a small but growing group that applies molecular techniques to study the processes of biomineralisation in various organisms. The project will involve the high-throughput identification and characterisation of shell forming genes and proteins in L. stagnalis.
Resources available for this project include a shallow draft genome of L. stagnalis, next generation EST datasets derived from various tissues (including the mantle) and a proteome dataset derived from the shell of L. stagnalis. Infrastructure includes an automated high throughput in situ detection system, real time qPCR machine, chemiluminescent detector and all the standard equipment for routine molecular techniques.
The applicant should have a degree within a field of molecular evolution or molecular biology, and be able to display relevant experience with molecular techniques (essential), and be familiar with various bioinformatic analyses (desirable).
All applications should include the following:
- a statement of research interests (or letter of motivation)
- copies of any relevant publications
- at least 1 letter of reference (preferably 2) and the corresponding
contact details of these referees.
Applications must be submitted before September 30, 2011 and should be emailed to Daniel Jackson (djackso(at)uni-goettingen.de). Informal enquiries are also welcome.
Junior Professor Daniel J. Jackson
Courant Research Centre Geobiology
Georg-August University of Göttingen
djackso@uni-goettingen.de
http://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/102705.html

Ph. D student to study biogeography of Caribbean arachnids, Univ Puerto Rico

We are a seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join our NSF-funded research team that is addressing fundamental evolutionary and biogeographic questions using Caribbean arachnids. The team includes researchers from the University of Puerto Rico, Lewis and Clark College, University of Kansas, and collaborators from multiple other institutions. The research will largely consist of comparative biogeographic analyses of Caribbean arachnids that represent a range of dispersal abilities and have fossil representation. The project involves field work every year for the next three years and includes a large number of Caribbean islands, as well as nearby continental landmasses. To learn more about the project please see: http://www.islandbiogeography.org/
The selected candidate will obtain his/her PhD from the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras at the Agnarsson lab (http://www.theridiidae.com/), and have the opportunity to spend time at the Binford lab at Lewis and Clark
College (http://legacy.lclark.edu/~binford/) and/or the Selden lab at the
University of Kansas (http://homepage.mac.com/paulselden/Home/). The
candidate will also have an opportunity to collaborate with a range of world
taxonomic experts on various arachnids, and work at the Smithsonian
Institution, Washington DC to gather molecular data and secure tissue
samples for long term storage at the Global Genome Initiative facility. We
seek a candidate with strong previous research and fieldwork experience.
Knowledge of phylogenetic methods and molecular work is essential, and
research experience in the field of biogeography/phylogeography is highly
desirable. Experience with spiders and other arachnids is an asset, but not
necessary. The position is funded as a research assistant for a minimum of 3
years, starting as soon as possible. Additional years will be funded through
a graduate teaching assistantship at the University of Puerto Rico (one year
minimal teaching requirement). Please apply by sending your CV, including
the email addresses of two referees, and a letter of motivation to Ingi
Agnarsson (iagnarsson@gmail.com) by October 15, 2011. The selected candidate
will then need to apply to the doctoral program of the Department of
Biology, University of Puerto Rico (http://biology.uprrp.edu/), by December
15, 2011. Please direct questions to Ingi Agnarsson (iagnarsson@gmail.com)
or Greta Binford (binford@lclark.edu).

PhD position in Duesseldorf, Germany: Plant evolutionary genetics

I am looking for a PhD candidate interested in plant evolutionary
genetics. In my lab, we are investigating the genetic basis for
symbiont recognition and discrimination in Lotus species. A PhD
position, funded by the German Science Foundation (DFG), is available
immediately to work on this project. This project has both
experimental and computational components and will involve functional
studies on plants (inoculations with bacteria and trans-gene
expression) and classical population genetics. Applicants should have
a Master's degree or equivalent in biology or a related field.
Previous laboratory experience and coursework in evolutionary biology
and genetics are desirable.
My lab has recently moved to Düsseldorf at Heinrich Heine University
(www.evol.bio.lmu.de/_rose/). Here you will have access to state-of-
the-art research facilities and the added benefit of joining the
newly established plant biology graduate program (http://www.igrad-
plant.uni-duesseldorf.de/Home). The working language of the research
group is English.
The closing date for applications is October 2, 2011, or when the
position is filled. Applicants should send a single PDF file
containing a statement of interest and previous research experience,
curriculum vitae, and contact information for at least two referees
to Laura.Rose@hhu.de

PhD student. Washington State University, Plant Evolutionary Genetics

Washington State University, Plant Evolutionary Genetics The Busch lab at Washington State University is recruiting a Ph.D. student with broad interests in ecology and evolution. This student would begin in the fall of 2012 and be partially supported by a research assistantship that is part of a 5 year collaborative proposal funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF).
The research program will examine the breakdown of self-incompatibility, to determine the mode and tempo whereby this complex adaptation is lost in nature. This proposal is conducted in collaboration with the lab of Dr. Christopher Herlihy at Middle Tennessee State University, and focuses on the mustard species
Leavenworthia alabamica as a model.
The Ph.D. student will be supported for 2 years on a 12 month basis. During this time, the student will lead manipulative field experiments, oversee undergraduate researchers in the field, and use population-genetic techniques to estimate
parentage and gene flow. Work conducted during the RA appointment would be expected to be part of a larger body of dissertation work that is open to the student. I expect that the incoming Ph.D. student would have broad interests in the maintenance of genetic variation and be fascinated by ecological and evolutionary processes.
Interested students should see the Busch laboratory homepage (http://sbs.wsu.edu/faculty/?faculty/148) to read about the diversity of
research topics that are being investigated by lab members.
The Ph.D. student would also be guaranteed monetary support during the remainder of their dissertation by serving as a teaching assistant.
To learn more about graduate studies in the School of Biological Sciences at WSU, please read further on our website http://sbs.wsu.edu/grad-studies
If you are interested in this opportunity for RA support and studying floral evolution for your Ph.D., please send me a CV and a statement outlining your motivation to pursue graduate studies in ecology and evolution.
Sincerely,
Jeremiah W. Busch
jwbusch[at]wsu.edu

VIII Taller Latinoamericano de Genética para la Conservación, Chillan, Chile

La Red de Genética para la Conservación (ReGeneC) anuncia el VIII Taller Latinoamericano de Genética para la Conservación.
La Red de Genética para la Conservación (ReGeneC) reúne a científicos con experticias en distintas áreas de esta temática que trabajan en la región. El VIII Taller Latinoamericano de Genética para la Conservación se desarrollará entre el 15 y el 29 de enero de 2012, en Chillan, Chile. El curso es dictado en español, tiene nivel de postgrado y busca, entre otros aspectos, formar y favorecer la integración de recursos humanos para facilitar la conservación y el uso adecuado de la riqueza biológica de esta región. Informaciones acerca del programa, profesores participantes y modalidades de pre-inscripción se encuentran en el sitio web del Taller: http://regenec.ula.ve/taller/ene2012/
Dr. Elie POULIN
Laboratorio de Ecología Molecular (LEM)
Instituto de Ecología y Biodiversidad (IEB)
Departamento de Ciencias Ecológicas
Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile
http://lem.dm.cl/
http://www.ieb-chile.cl/

PhD studentship available at the New Zealand Institute for Advanced Study (Auckland)

A Marsden-funded PhD studentship is available in Paul Rainey's Experimental Evolution lab at the New Zealand Institute for Advanced Study (Auckland, NZ). This position provides an opportunity for an outstanding individual to contribute toward a long-term research program aimed at elucidating the principles of genetic evolution.
Working as part of a multidisciplinary team, the student will be responsible for the development of models that describe genetic evolution-particularly the factors that affect the translation of mutation into phenotypic variation. These models will take advantage of a well-established and uniquely powerful experimental system to explore the hypothesis that evolution proceeds via 'pathways of least resistance', that is, via those pathways that have the greatest capacity to translate mutation into phenotypic variation (see McDonald et al 2009 Genetics). Informed by experimental insight, the student will use bioinformatic and Bayesian approaches in conjunction with dynamic equations to create general predictive models. The successful candidate should have a strong background in bioinformatics or mathematical biology and have an interest in evolution and/or development.
This post is of three years duration and available immediately. Any inquiries should be addressed to Eric Libby (e.libby@massey.ac.nz). To apply for the post please send a letter of interest/statement of purpose, CV, and the names of three referees to Vesna Davidovic-Alexander (v.davidovic-alexander@massey.ac.nz)."

FLUCAR busca estudiantes de Licenciatura y Posgrado

La Red Nacional de Monitoreo de Flujos de Carbono en los Ecosistemas Costeros del Pacifico Mexicano y el Golfo de Mexico (FLUCAR) busca estudiantes de licenciatura, de maestria y de doctorado, que deseen ingresar en enero 2012 para los temas de ciclos biogequimicos y el cambio climatico, la acidificacion del oceano y la hypoxia en escalas nacionales y regionales.
Becas via CONACYT paralos estudiantes de posgrado y becas de proyectos para los estudiantes de licenciatura.
Pida informes a Ruben Lara: rlara@cicese.mx
Vea los detalles en: http://flucar.cicese.mx/

viernes, 23 de septiembre de 2011

martes, 20 de septiembre de 2011

Oportunidad para realizar tesis doctoral en el proyecto: Ontogenia del sistema inmune del lobo marino de California

Ontogenia del sistema inmune del lobo marino de California, Zalophus californianus (Proyecto financiado por CONACYT)

Los lobos marinos son modelos mamíferos ideales para realizar estudios sobre la ontogenia y ecología evolutiva del sistema inmunitario. La especie presenta un alto nivel de poliginia y un marcado dimorfismo al alcanzar la madurez sexual. Asimismo, las tasas de mortalidad y crecimiento juveniles varían entre sexos, por lo que son un sistema interesante para abordar preguntas sobre competencia inmune a etapas tempranas del desarrollo. Un estudio reciente que realizamos para evaluar el impacto del contacto urbano sobre parámetros inmunes en crías de lobo marino de Galápagos, Zalophus wollebaecki, mostró que los individuos que la vida urbana tiende a incrementar la actividad inmune y que esto, a su vez, impacta en la supervivencia de los individuos. Inscrito dentro de un proyecto mayor sobre ecología inmune del lobo marino de California, esta tesis doctoral buscara describir la ontogenia del sistema inmune del lobo marino de California, Z. californianus, una especie cercana a Z. wollebaecki pero que comparativamente presenta un mayor dimorfismo sexual, mayor tasa de crecimiento y distintas presiones patogénicas.


El estudio utilizará tecnologías genéticas, moleculares y ecoinmunológicas para describir la formación y maduración del sistema inmune y el costo de su activación con respecto a los procesos de crecimiento y esteroidogénesis. Junto con los otros componentes del proyecto este estudio permitirá identificar componentes claves de la inmunidad temprana y aumentará nuestro entendimiento sobre la ecología evolutiva del sistema inmune en vertebrados.

Idealmente, el o la candidato(a) deberá tener una formación en ciencias biológicas o biomédicas, buen nivel de inglés, experiencia en trabajo de campo y buena condición física ya que el doctorado involucra trabajo de campo en el Golfo de California. Para ser asignado al estudio se requiere que cumpla con los requisitos de admisión señalados por el Doctorado en Ciencias Biológicas de la Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro UAQ (http://www.uaq.mx/FCN/fcn_DCB.html)

El o la interesada deberá enviar su CV, tres cartas de recomendación académicas, y una carta de exposición de motivos a Karina Acevedo-Whitehouse (enviar a la dirección: karina.acevedo.whitehouse@uaq.mx) antes del 15 de Noviembre del 2011.
Los seleccionados serán contactados por correo electrónico y entrevistados a finales de Noviembre. El doctorado dará inicio en Enero del 2012.

jueves, 8 de septiembre de 2011

Sonoran Desert Researches: Next Generation

Los jóvenes científicos de México y los Estados Unidos —la próxima generación de investigadores del Desierto Sonorense— se encuentran dispersos a ambos lados de la frontera binacional en múltiples instituciones y organizaciones. En general, estos jóvenes investigadores no se conocen entre sí. Nuestros trabajos, aunque aproximados desde distintas disciplinas, convergen en la parte continental del Desierto de Sonora, la península de Baja California, el Golfo de California y sus prístinas islas desérticas.

Es tiempo que la próxima generación de investigadores del Desierto Sonorense se una y forme una comunidad sólida que logre perpetuar el legado de investigación y conservación en el Desierto Sonorense. Se extiende la presente invitación a todos los interesados en construir una comunidad científica comprometida con impulsar el desarrollo de nuevos conocimientos y la conservación a atender los desafíos que la región enfrenta en nuestros tiempos.

Por tal motivo, se emite la actual CONVOCATORIA

¿QUÉ? Un taller de temática flexible con una duración de tres días
¿CUÁNDO? 18 al 20 abril 2012
¿DÓNDE? The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Tucson, AZ

Si estás interesado en participar en este evento por favor envía un correo electrónico antes del 15 de septiembre de 2011 a los organizadores del taller: nextgensd2012@gmail.com

Debes mencionar:
1) tu lugar de residencia actual, y
2) una breve descripción de tus intereses académicos e investigación.

Se financiarán los gastos para asistir a este evento.
El cupo es limitado

Mas informacion en http://nextgensd.com/

miércoles, 7 de septiembre de 2011

VI CONGRESO UNIVERSITARIO DE BIOLOGÍA, Hermosillo, Son

La Universidad de Sonora, a través de la Licenciatura en Biología, hace del conocimiento a investigadores, profesores, estudiantes y profesionistas de las ciencias biológicas y áreas afines que actualmente se encuentra organizando el VI CONGRESO UNIVERSITARIO DE BIOLOGÍA, a realizarse del 9 al 11 de noviembre de 2011 en el Teatro Emiliana De Zubeldia, en la ciudad de Hermosillo, Sonora.

La participación en el Congreso podrá ser en modalidad ponencia y cartel, en las cuales se podrán desarrollar las siguientes temáticas:
ZOOLOGÍA
BOTÁNICA
BIOTECNOLOGÍA
ECOLOGÍA
CONSERVACIÓN
ACUACULTURA
BIOLOGÍA MARINA
PALEONTOLOGÍA
EVOLUCIÓN

Mayores informes en: http://www.congresouniversitariodebiologia.uson.mx/default.htm

jueves, 25 de agosto de 2011

2do. CONGRESO DE ECOLOGÍA, Hermosillo, Sonora

El Centro de Estudios Superiores del Estado de Sonora, por medio de la Licenciatura en Ecología, convoca a participar con ponencias orales o carteles en el:
2do. CONGRESO DE ECOLOGÍA
“Que tus acciones hagan ECOlogía”
Que se llevará a cabo los días 9, 10 y 11 de Noviembre de 2011 en la ciudad de Hermosillo, Sonora.

TEMÁTICAS

Temática 1: Ecología y ciencias sociales
Ecoturismo
Economía ecológica
Política ambiental
Educación ambiental
Psicología ambiental

Temática 2: Ecología y ciencias ambientales
Biorremediacion
Impacto ambiental
Hidrología
Agronomía
Climatología
Geología
Desarrollo sostenible
Ingeniería ambiental

Temática 3: Ecología y recursos naturales
Agua
Áreas naturales protegidas
Ecosistemas
Ecología marina
Ecología de poblaciones
Ecología de comunidades
Genética y evolución

Para mayor información sobre el evento:
http://congresodeecologiacesues.com/
congresodeecologia@gmail.com
Tel. CESUES: (622) 215-37-78 ext. 105, a las oficinas de Ecología

Tenure-track Faculty Position at Langebio-CINVESTAV, Guanajuato

The National Laboratory of Genomics for Biodiversity of Mexico (Langebio) is a Unit of the "Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados" (CINVESTAV), a Federal Government Institution devoted to basic and applied research. Langebio's mandate is to conduct top-ranked research and graduate education, while promoting genomic knowledge for the protection and sustainable use of Mexican biodiversity (http://www.langebio.cinvestav.mx).

Research at Langebio is conducted by an international team of scientists, with an emphasis on collaboration and multidisciplinary studies. We are recruiting group leaders at all career stages, working in experimental and theoretical biology. Scientists at Langebio have access to state of the art computational and wet lab facilities, and are expected to build or bring a world-class research group. Applications from women are encouraged.

Applicants should send a CV, PDFs of their 3 most important publications, and a three page description of their scientific accomplishments and proposed research program. Junior applicants should arrange for three reference letters to be sent separately.

Review of applications will begin November 15th, 2011. Send applications to the attention of Dr. Luis Herrera-Estrella, Langebio-CINVESTAV, Irapuato, Guanajuato, MEXICO, E-mail: mbernal@langebio.cinvestav.mx