Announcement from James Cook University in Townsville, Queensland

Projects:
1) Immunity to amphibian chytridiomycosis and
2) Virulence of amphibian chytridiomycosis

Chytridiomycosis has caused amphibian declines and extinctions globally as it has spread through naïve populations. It is now endemic in much of its suitable range in Australia where it still causes high mortality rates and threatens amphibian biodiversity. We have project funds to investigate how virulence of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) and host immunity are evolving as the amphibian host/fungal pathogen relationship adapts to new hosts. The immunity project extends an ongoing collaborative study into factors affecting mechanisms of innate and acquired immunity. The virulence project involves experiments on archived and field collected isolates from different times after invasion to assess strain virulence. Both studies involve lab and animal experiments and proteomics. Both projects could also involve field work and genetics depending on experimental outcomes. In negotiation with the supervisors, the student will be able to pursue areas of interest within this framework. The projects are multidisciplinary and involve collaborators such as Taronga Zoo and NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change. The outcomes of the projects are likely to be used by these and other stakeholders and lead to the improved conservation of amphibian biodiversity. It is also expected that the work will have high scientific impact and contribute to theories on host/pathogen evolution. PhD graduates would be qualified for employment in universities and industry. The selected applicants would need to apply for an APA or international PhD scholarship. Please see http://www.jcu.edu.au/grs/scholarships/index.htm

Ideal PhD candidates will have:

1. 1st class honours or equivalent research credentials in a relevant discipline such as veterinary science or zoology majoring in microbiology or immunology
2. Laboratory skills in amphibian husbandry and experiments
3. Demonstrated publication record
4. Demonstrated interpersonal and communication skills.

Supervisors and Collaborators: Dr Lee Skerratt, Dr Lee Berger, Dr Scott Cashins, Prof Rick Speare, Dr Jason Mulvenna (School of Public Health, Tropical Medicine and Rehabilitation Sciences, JCU), Dr Robert Puschendorf (School of Marine and Tropical Biology, JCU), Dr Peter Harlow (Taronga Zoo), Dr David Hunter (NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change).

Please send CV, cover letter and 2 reference letters to Lee.Berger@jcu.edu.au by July 20th, 2011.
For more information on the virulence project contact Lee.Berger@jcu.edu.au and on the immunity project contact Lee.Skerratt@jcu.edu.au

Job Opening: Postdoctoral Scientist at UC Boulder

Creative and motivated candidates are invited to apply for a Postdoctoral
Scientist position working at the intersection of disease ecology and
amphibian conservation at the University of Colorado, Boulder. The
position will focus on exploring questions in one of two focal areas:

(1) Applying metacommunity theory to host-parasite interactions at
multiple spatial scales, and/or

(2) Understanding the immunological mechanisms that mediate patterns of
parasite coinfection and amphibian disease.

A wide range of parasites will be included in the study, but particular
emphasis will be placed on the trematode Ribeiroia ondatrae and its
effects on amphibian malformations. Previous field and/or experimental
experience with host-parasite systems is essential, and a background in
community ecology, landscape ecology and/or immunology is strongly
encouraged. Experience with GIS and analysis of spatial data is
preferred. Because funding for positions is derived from several sources,
the selected candidate will have some flexibility in developing specific
projects. Focal project areas include: using ecological ‘rules’ to
understand patterns of parasite interaction within and among hosts,
identifying the effects of host and parasite diversity on disease, and
evaluating the importance of dispersal and species interactions in
structuring host and parasite communities. Target start date is spring or
summer of 2010. Interested applicants should send (as a single pdf) the
following: a complete CV, contact information for references, and a brief
statement of research interests related to this position (<2 pages) to Dr.
Pieter Johnson (pieter.johnson@colorado.edu), Ecology and Evolutionary
Biology Department, University of Colorado (see
www.colorado.edu/eeb/facultysites/pieter).
DEADLINE EXTENDED: APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED UNTIL MARCH 15, 2010.
--
Pieter Johnson, PhD/Ecology and Evolutionary Biology/Ramaley N122, CB334
University of Colorado/Boulder, CO 80309/303.492.5623
www.colorado.edu/eeb/facultysites/pieter

Graduate Position In Amphibian Ecology, Vonesh Lab, VCU

The Vonesh lab in the Department of Biology at Virginia Commonwealth
Univesity (www.has.vcu.edu/bio) invites applications from prospective
graduate students for Fall 2010 to collaborate on our NSF-funded project at
the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (www.stri.org), Gamboa, Panama,
“Fear, death, and life history switch points: cumulative effects of
predation and phenotypic plasticity across three life stages.” This project
is a joint effort between the Vonesh (www.has.vcu.edu/bio/pages/jrvonesh)
and Karen Warkentin labs (Boston University; people.bu.edu/kwarken), and
focuses on the effects of sequential stage-specific predators on the
survival and life history of tropical frogs. Students are expected to
develop independent research projects that fit within the larger framework
of the grant. The Vonesh and Warkentin lab team in Gamboa includes graduate
students, postdoctoral fellows, and undergraduate interns. In addition,
STRI offers a diverse and intellectually rich, international scientific
community in a tropical rainforest environment. VCU, located in Richmond,
VA, is the largest public R1 university in Virginia and has an active and
diverse Ecology and Evolution faculty that are engaged in research around
the world.

Prospective students should apply through the Biology Masters in Science
program (www.has.vcu.edu/bio/graduate/ms_program.html); however, the
opportunity to continue through the PhD may also be possible via the VCU
Integrative Life Sciences Ph.D. program (www.vcu.edu/lifesci/phd).
Competitive stipends, tuition waivers, and support for field work are
available. Successful applicants to the Vonesh lab typically have had a BS
in biology (or related field), GPA >3.3, GREs >1200, some prior research
experience, a strong interest in developing quantitative skills, and an
high level of self motivation. Some proficiency in Spanish is desirable.
Interested persons should initially email a letter that summarizes their
background, educational goals, and research interests, along with
curriculum vitae (include GPA and GRE scores) with contact information for
three references to Dr. James Vonesh (jrvoneshvcu.edu).

CNAH ANNOUNCEMENT
The Center for North American Herpetology
Lawrence, Kansas
http://www.cnah.org
30 October 2009

A doctoral studentship opportunity is available for a highly-motivated student, working with Dr. Gerlinde Höbel at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. This PhD project is part of a larger collaborative study investigating the importance of experience-mediated changes in sexual traits in anurans. Extensive fieldwork is required.

At the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, doctoral students in good standing are guaranteed support for 5 years (Teaching Assistant Position) and a tuition waiver. This will be supplemented by summer support.

For more information please visit:

http://www4.uwm.edu/letsci/biologicalsciences/facultystaff/hobel/index.cfm

To apply, please contact Gerlinde Höbel at:
hoebel@uwm.edu

Gerlinde Höbel
Department of Biological Sciences
Lapham Hall
3209 North Maryland Avenue
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201

CNAH ANNOUNCEMENT
The Center for North American Herpetology
Lawrence, Kansas
http://www.cnah.org
21 August 2009

Position Opening at Memphis Zoo

POST-DOCTORAL FELLOWSHIP IN AMPHIBIAN REPRODUCTIVE PHYSIOLOGY

The Memphis Zoo is seeking a post-doctoral fellow who will be responsible for coordinating and conducting reproductive research for endangered amphibians, under the general direction of the Director of Research and Conservation. Responsibilities will include: develop and coordinate a reproductive research program for conservation of amphibians, centered on the creation of a genetic resource bank for endangered anurans,
novel hormone protocols for sperm production and ovulation, in-vitro fertilization and improving captive husbandry and reproduction; organize relevant amphibian field projects to complement the ex-situ reproductive research program; design and implement amphibian reproductive studies of interest to the candidate; husbandry and care of research amphibian collection; mentor and coordinate volunteers, graduate and undergraduate students involved with reproductive studies; provide assistance to all senior
scientists, research associates, graduate students, and/or post-doctoral fellows in conducting investigations related to the collection; assist with the daily operations of the physiology and nutrition laboratory; compile and maintain complete and accurate research and conservation records through database entry, design and management of data including statistical analysis; produce periodic progress reports, scientific publications and financial statements on the amphibian research program; interface with other staff members; present research findings both nationally and internationally; represent the Zoo
at professional meetings and assist collaborators at other institutions; perform other related duties as assigned to support the mission of the research and conservation department and in order to achieve the goals, mission, and objectives of the Zoo. The term of this position is two (2) years, and it is supported by an external grant.

Requirements: a Ph.D. degree in Biology, Zoology, Animal Science or a related field with an emphasis on reproductive physiology; candidate should have a minimum of two (2) years experience working with amphibians and have one (1) year of experience with reproductive biotechnologies; high degree of motivation; multi-task orientation; high degree of organization; ability to work well in a group environment; ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing; ability to prepare written material and analyze data for reports; familiarity with use of Windows-based PCs and computer programs, to include a variety of word processing and database management computer programs, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point, statistical programs, e-mail, and Internet research; familiarity with use of basic office equipment, which may include telephones, typewriters, fax machines, copiers, and other standard office equipment; ability to work indoors or outdoors in all types of weather conditions. The work schedule may include days, weekends, evenings, or holidays as needed and may require travel to other institutions,
collaborating zoological parks, and/or universities in North America and internationally. We will consider any combination of education and experience, that provides the necessary skills, knowledge and abilities. The term of this exempt grant-funded position is two (2) years and includes benefits.

Apply by 1 October 2009. Applications may be downloaded from the Zoo’s website at

http://www.memphiszoo.org/

and submitted at the Zoo or mailed to the attention of

Human Resources
Memphis Zoo
2000 Prentiss Place
Memphis, Tennessee 38112

Send a cover letter, resume or curriculum vitae, transcripts from graduate school, and the
names and contact information of three (3) professional references. The cover letter
should specifically address how previous experience addresses the skills and tasks
required for this position.

Walk-in interviews, phone calls, and email are not accepted. Applicants must be work-
authorized individuals in the U.S., as specified by Form I-9, which includes a citizen of the
U.S., a non-citizen national of the U.S., a lawful permanent resident, or an alien authorized
to work until a certain expiration date.

A postdoctoral position is available in lab of Dr. Karen Lips, Department of Biology,
University of Maryland, College Park. Creative and enthusiastic candidates are invited to
apply for a Postdoctoral Scientist position working at the intersection of disease ecology
and amphibian conservation in the neotropics. Dr. Lips is working on a variety of projects
related to the abundance and diversity of amphibians and the impact of Batrachochytrium
dendrobatidis (Bd) on individuals, populations, and species at multiple
sites in Central and South America. The position will focus on host-pathogen interactions
at multiple spatial scales, including large-scale field surveys, indoor/outdoor
experiments, and spatial analyses at multiple scales.

To qualify, applicants should have a background in disease ecology, mark-recapture
techniques, population biology, physiology, or related field, demonstration of strong
analytical and writing skills, a record of consistent and high-quality publications, and the
ability to work independently. Preference will be given to applicants who have experience
in Latin America, working with host-pathogen systems, physiology and/or in population
biology.

Primary responsibilities of this position include: (1) conducting mark-recapture studies of
target species of amphibians at multiple sites in Panama and Costa Rica, (2) quantifying
disease prevalence of infection among species, habitats and sites, (3) studying amphibian
thermal physiology, (4) analyzing data and writing manuscripts, (5) contributing to
preparation of grant proposals for future work, and (6) coordinating projects of
undergraduate students involved in similar research in the lab.

Starting salary is $36,000 plus University of Maryland benefits. Funds are available for one
year, and renewable for a second pending satisfactory progress. This position will be
based at the University of Maryland, College Park, but will include fieldwork in Central and
South America. Starting date is negotiable.

Review of applications will begin 1 September 2009 and continue until a suitable
candidate is found. Target start date is Fall 2009. Interested applicants should send a pdf
of their CV, contact information for four references, and a brief statement of research
interests to

Dr. Karen R. Lips
Department of Biology
University of Maryland
College Park, Maryland 20742
klips@umd.edu

NEWS RELEASE by:
The Center for North American Herpetology
Lawrence, Kansas

http://www.cnah.org

11 August 2009

Several Litoria frog species have successfully established outside of
their native Australian range: L. dentata (Lord Howe Island), L. aurea
(New Zealand, New Caledonia & Vanuatu), L. ewingii (New Zealand), and
L. raniformis (New Zealand). This project will compare the physiology,
ecology, behaviour, and genetics of source and introduced populations,
focusing specifically on the introduction of the bleating tree frog (L.
dentata) to Lord Howe Island. The project will be co-supervised by Dr
Richard Reina, Monash University. Funding for the project has been
obtained from an internal grant from Monash University.

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) (application deadline 31st
October). Students with a First Class Honours degree (or equivalent)
are guaranteed a Faculty of Science Dean’s Postgraduate Research
Scholarship. International students can apply for an IPRS or Monash
Graduate Scholarship. For further information regarding PhD entry
requirements see: PhD requirements.

http://www.biolsci.monash.edu.au/staff/chapple/prosp.html

Interested students should email their research interests, CV, academic
record, and details of two academic referees to Dr David Chapple
(David.Chapple@sci.monash.edu.au). For further information phone (03)
9905 3015.

______________________________________________
Dr David Chapple
Lecturer in Evolutionary & Invasion Biology
School of Biological Sciences
Monash University
Clayton VIC 3800, Australia
Ph: +61-3-9905 3015
Fax: +61-3-9905 5613
Email: david.chapple@sci.monash.edu.au
Website: http://www.biolsci.monash.edu.au/staff/chapple/

NEWS RELEASE
The Center for North American Herpetology
Lawrence, Kansas
http://www.cnah.org
23 March 2009

SALAMANDER RESEARCH POSITION FOR JUNE-AUGUST 2009

I am looking for one or two field assistants to help with research on Long-toed
Salamanders in the Pacific Northwest this summer. The field season will run from June
until the end of August. The job involves helping to locate and catch salamanders, taking
notes and conducting habitat analyses. There is also a small laboratory component during
which the assistant will help with DNA extractions and PCR.

Qualifications:

1) Experience hiking and camping required. Preference will be given to applicants with previous field experience.
2) Physically fit. The job will involve hiking to field sites with gear, actively looking for salamanders and long stretches of time outdoors.
3) A willingness to learn, enthusiasm for research and full dedication to the project
4) Must be comfortable working and living in small groups
5) Driver‚s license and first aid certification, are not required but are helpful

Additional Requirements:

1) Canadian citizenship or valid work permit for Canada
2) Successful applicant must have valid health insurance, including coverage in Canada
and the USA for the duration of the field season.

Salary:

Will depend on experience but, at a minimum, will be more than sufficient to cover living
expenses during the field season

Other Benefits:

1) Learn about amphibians and get experience in the field
2) Great for outdoors enthusiasts as there is lots of hiking, camping, etc. involved
3) An interesting way to see the Western United States and Canada (Alberta, British
Columbia, Montana, Washington and Idaho)
4) Opportunities for credit and/or an independent project can be discussed

Deadlines:

I will be accepting applications until April 15 but interviews will commence before then as
I am hoping to fill this position by May. If interested, please contact Julie Lee-Yaw at:

lee-yaw@zoology.ubc.ca

for more information and to obtain an application form.

Julie A. Lee-Yaw
Graduate Student
Zoology Department
University of British Columbia

NEWS RELEASE
The Center for North American Herpetology
Lawrence, Kansas
http://www.cnah.org
4 March 2009

SALAMANDER SEASONAL TECHNICIAN

Agency: Purdue University, Department of Forestry and Natural Resources
Location: Southwestern North Carolina

Job Description: A seasonal field technician is needed for research investigating headwater
stream community ecology in the southern Appalachian Mountains. Field work will involve capturing, identifying, gut flushing, and measuring salamanders found in and around headwater streams, as well as collecting water quality data and aquatic macro-invertebrates. Laboratory work will involve identifying salamander gut contents and processing water samples, although the majority of the work will be field based. Field work will begin in late May and last through the middle of August.

Qualifications: Successful applicants must be able to work long hours in sometimes
inclement weather while hiking in mountainous terrain. Preference will be given to applicants with a strong interest in stream ecology, herpetology, community ecology, or wildlife conservation. Previous experience working in the field or with salamanders is desirable, but not required. To apply please send a resume, brief statement of interest (1-2 paragraphs), and contact information for two references to Conor Keitzer at:

skeitzer@purdue.edu

Salary: $8.50/hour and housing will be provided at a field research station.

Last Date to Apply: Open until filled.

Contact Information:

S. Conor Keitzer
Graduate Research Assistant
Forestry and Natural Resources
Purdue University
715 W State Street
West Lafayette, Indiana 47907-2061
(765) 494-9597

NEWS RELEASE
The Center for North American Herpetology
Lawrence, Kansas
http://www.cnah.org
24 February 2009

Title: Biological Science Technician
US Geological Survey, Western Ecological Research Center, San Diego Field Station

http://www.werc.usgs.gov/

Locations: San Diego, California and Irvine, California
Five full-time, temporary positions (1 Irvine & 4 San Diego)
GS-0404-5/7

DESCRIPTION: This is a unique opportunity to conduct research on amphibians, reptiles,
fish, small mammals, and terrestrial invertebrates in southern California.

The technician will be a part of a science team conducting research on amphibians, turtles, reptiles, fish, small mammals, and terrestrial invertebrate species within National Forests, State Parks, Reserves, and US Military Lands in southern California. Data collection is for the purpose of understanding diversity, population densities, growth rates, temporal activity patterns, exotic invasions, genetic relationships at the community and species level, and the conservation of endangered species.

Field work includes conducting biological wildlife surveys using various methods such as visual surveys, pitfall trapping, seining, minnow traps, and Sherman traps. The technician will identify, catch, measure, and mark animals, as well as collect water quality and environmental data. Previous field experience or general knowledge of amphibians, turtles, reptiles, small mammals, fish, and terrestrial invertebrate species of southern California is highly recommended.

The field work is often conducted in densely vegetated terrain under adverse environmental conditions (extreme temperatures, rain, and poison oak.) The position sometimes requires long hours in the field working days and nights, hiking, and carrying heavy equipment. Some overnight travel may be necessary. A current valid driver’s license is required, as driving 4WD vehicles is often necessary.

Deadline is 27 February 2009. Please apply for the position through the website at:

http://www.usajobs.gov

and search under position numbers:

Biological Science Technician (Wildlife)
GS-0404-5/7
Temp/Full Time
WR-2009-0227 (San Diego)
WR-2009-0226 (Irvine)

For more information contact:

Adam Backlin
US Geological Survey, San Diego Field Station
4727 Portola Parkway, Bldg C
Irvine, CA 92620
(714) 508-4702
abacklin@usgs.gov