Thursday, January 28, 2016

Weekly Announcements - 1/28/16

Dear Environmental Studies Students,

Please find this week’s announcements from the Environmental Studies Program below. 

Conference Opportunities
1.       Fully Funded Energy Path Conference
2.       Yale Conference on Tropical Forests for Sustainable Development

BC Announcements
1.       Senior Thesis Survey

BC Study Abroad Courses
2.       International Law of Food – Parma, Italy – May 29-June 26, 2016 (Application due Feb 5)
3.       Decoding Ireland's DNA (Students receive credit for BIOL1420 - The Genetic Century), June 4 - July 3, 2016

Summer Research Opportunities
1.       Summer Research in Ethiopia
2.       Summer Research in South Africa
3.       Climate Change Impacts in Semi-Arid Regions at UT-Austin

Graduate School, Fellowship, and Outside Academic Opportunities
1.       Wind Energy Graduate Research Fellowships at the University of Delaware
2.       Ph.D. Research Assistant – Future of Dams
3.       Environmental Ph.D. Program at UMass Boston
4.       Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies
5.       Fully Funded Master’s in Human/Climate Interactions & Forecasting at Memorial University
6.       Middlebury School of the Environment Summer Program

Internship and Job Opportunities, Site Visits, Study Abroad Opportunities, and Travel Opportunities
1.        Internships with New England Environmental, Inc.
2.        Courses in Belize
3.        Season Research Assistant – Wells Research
4.        Job Opportunities in Alaskan National Parks
5.        Interpretation Ambassador, Nation Parks Service
6.        Online Green Jobs Forums
7.        Internship at Grand Canyon National Park
8.        Study in Montana next fall or over the summer
9.        Solar Internship with Environment Mass
10.     Jobs with Impact
11.     Internships with Environment Massachusetts
12.     Green Job and Internship Opening List
13.     Job Opportunities with Mass and US PIRG
14.     Internship with Environment America
15.     BC Career Center Updates

Best,
Kevin

--
B. Kevin Brown
Graduate Assistant, Environmental Studies
617-552-2477
Devlin 213




Tangible products from these discussions will provide much needed documentation of the essential roles tropical forests play in sustainable development issues less typically seen as connected to forest programs, for example, those of poverty alleviation; gender empowerment; food security; energy access; sustainable economic growth, production and consumption; and human well-being.
Interested in learning more? Stay connected with the Yale Chapter of the International Society of Tropical Foresters (ISTF) through our social networks:
- Yale ISTF Listserv: http://istf.yale.edu/about
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yalefesistf/
- Twitter: @YaleISTF



This course is designed to provide a basic understanding of genetic principles and the many ways that genetics affects human history and our daily life. Since earliest times, human history has been shaped by man's manipulation of genes. A country's history is in many ways a story of changes that occur in the DNA of the people and other living organisms that inhabit its land.The small size of the summer course allows a more interactive format than is possible during the regular academic year.  In the course, we will study the principles of genetics set against the unique background of Ireland.  We will learn how information in genes produces traits, how genes are transferred between generations, how migration and selection affect the diversity of populations and about new genetic technologies that are transforming 21st century life. Course excursions and activities will provide real-life context for the principles discussed in class.

Under the eight-week summer REU program students will receive training at Colby College in social survey research, ecological field methods, spatial analysis using Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and written and oral communication. They will then travel to South Gondar, Ethiopia to conduct hands-on fieldwork with mentors from Colby College, the California Academy of Sciences, and local academic and government institutions.
Completed applications including 2 letters of recommendation are due by February 15th. The 2016 Summer REU Site program will run from July 6th– August 24th (approximate). All participants must be enrolled at a U.S. college or university at the time of the program (seniors graduating in Spring 2016 are not eligible).
Details about the project and application instructions can be found at: http://www.colby.edu/reu-in-ethiopia/

Student can also register for our informational webinar about the South Africa program. Co-hosted by myself and our VP of Operations.
Do you have a student or students in mind that would seize an opportunity like this? If so, we ask you for their formal nomination. This nomination designates that you believe she or he is an above average opportunity seeker with a passion to learn and appreciate new ideas and customs.
We would greatly appreciate if you can pass the webinar invitation and packet about our program on to your students or submit a personal nomination to this email address. If you believe you have students at your university that would be interested in this unique opportunity, please inform them to contact us at info@beainstitute.org
  1. Reconstructing past climatic impacts on hydrologic and soil systems,
  1. Climate impacts on ecosystems, and
  1. Energy-water nexus and infrastructure adaptations.


Ph.D. Research Assistantship Position
Dr. Sean M.C. Smith, School of Earth and Climate Sciences and
Senator George J. Mitchell Center for Sustainability Solutions
University of Maine, Orono, ME
Announcement Date:  January 15, 2016
The School of Earth and Climate Sciences and the Mitchell Center for Sustainability Solutions at the University of Maine are seeking a highly qualified and motivated Ph.D. student interested in sustainability science research focused on management and operation decisions related to dams in New England. The student will work with Dr. Sean Smith and an interdisciplinary team of researchers on a project supported by the National Science Foundation to examine the eco-geomorphological, economic, technological, social and political trade-offs associated with varied dam operation and management strategies on streams and rivers in the region. Research topics for this position may include hydrologic, hydraulic and geomorphic analyses of fluvial systems, numeric watershed simulations and tasks supporting stakeholder-engaged multi-criteria decision analyses for dam management involving the project team.
This research assistantship is part of the New England Sustainability Consortium (NEST) which builds upon the Mitchell Center’s innovative approaches to solutions-driven, interdisciplinary research. This NEST project is focused on the future of dams in New England (https://www.newenglandsustainabilityconsortium.org/dams) and draws upon world-class faculty expertise at the University of Rhode Island, University of New Hampshire, Rhode Island School of Design, Keene State University and University of Maine.
Additional information on this position is available from the Mitchell Center website at http://umaine.edu/mitchellcenter/about-us/employment/ and in the attached document.

Current graduate opportunities
Forecast attitudes and application in Atlantic Canada (MA; Geography, Sociology, Anthropology, or Env Sci)
Climate variability perception (MA; Geography, Community Health, or Sociology)
Climate is never constant; from year to year, the state of the climate varies from cool to warm, wet to dry, stormy to sunny.  Although these variations are a prominent aspect of research in the natural sciences, they have largely been ignored in research into social science aspects of climate change (e.g. climate change perception, or attitudes towards climate action).  The result is a limited understanding of how or when to best communicate information on variability/change; this can lead to confusing climate science communication or discussion unusual events (e.g. the ‘polar vortex’ winter of 2013/14).  Our project aims to fill this knowledge gap by assessing ways people discuss variability, and assimilate experienced variability into a broader understanding of climate change.  Two MAs will assist this research, conducting interviews and focus groups in selected research communities. Funded through SSHRC.


The Center for Engaged Learning Abroad delivers two week field courses in environmental science and conservation using the country of Belize as a classroom, during May and June, and over the winter break.  This Caribbean/Central American country provides a rich learning context and is a great place for students studying abroad for the first time.  Please share this email with students or faculty who may have an interest in engaged learning abroad in English-speaking Belize.

Thank you,
Ed Boles, Ph.D.
Faculty Associate

The field courses, briefly described below, give students powerful field methods experiences, exposes them to areas of science they may want to pursue further and they gain a lot of confidence in capabilities.   These courses carry three hours of credit, transferable back to home institutions with prior academic approval.
Wildlife Health, Ecology and Conservation:  This course, taught by a wildlife veterinarian, introduces students to tropical ecology, local conservation efforts, Belizean wildlife and wildlife research techniques, and zoo and wildlife health issues and medicine.   Students explore the many factors that effect the management, conservation, habitat and health of wild animals; work alongside zookeepers in the world renowned Belize Zoo; participate in surgeries, animal enrichment and health management at the Zoo; and explore rehabilitation and conservation at a variety of wildlife organizations in Belize.
Watershed Conservation, Ecology and Management: This course explores the general structure and ecology of watersheds, the movement of surface and sub-surface waters through the landscape, larger integrated interactions of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, overall ecological services provided by watersheds, impact on human activities on watershed structure and function, assessment and monitoring of watersheds, and solutions to human induced impacts while providing students with hands-on experience in field research techniques.
Tropical Marine Ecology and Conservation:  This systems-ecology course includes classroom, field and laboratory components in terrestrial riparian, estuarine and marine ecosystems with emphasis on watershed interconnectivity and reef/mangrove/seagrass ecology and conservation.  The Caribbean Sea is explored from Tobacco Caye, a five acre island of sand perched on the reef with mangroves and grassbeds, with mask and snorkel, both day and night.
Health, Belief and Ethnobotany in Belize: This course explores traditional healing, spiritual belief, sustainability, food security and agro-forestry.  Through lectures, discussions, visits to healers/elders, and tours to farms and medicinal plant gardens, students will have the opportunity to experience unique and unforgettable traditions as they have been passed down through generations.  This is a field oriented course with rustic accommodations and local cuisine.   Students will go on jungle hikes in hot and humid conditions with some rain.  Cultural sensitivity, adventurous personality, stamina, desire to learn from other cultures and an open mind are desirable traits for students to succeed in this course.




https://www.linkedin.com/groups/77194
Here is another source of internships and fellowships with the Environmental Defense Fund that could be worth publicizing in the next newsletter. Some of these are for grad students.

Click to view this email in a browser

Make Montana your classroom
 

Northwest Connections field programs are based in the wild and rural Swan Valley, Montana

Get out of the classroom and earn credit studying our wildlife and human communities.
 

Wildlife in the West

 
Landscape & Livelihood

 


 
Apply Now for a Tuition Break

 


Click to view this email in a browser

Call Montana home next fall



Spend the Fall Semester in western Montana learning how to read the landscapes, the forests, the watersheds, and the wildlife. Gain tools for community-based conservation from the people working to conserve these resources and the communities they support. Live in a small group on a historic homestead where you grow your own food, unplug, and immerse yourself in wild Montana!

Your classroom: Montana’s wild Crown of the Continent


LANDSCAPE and LIVELIHOOD Field Semester
Earn 16 UPPER-DIVISION CREDITS from August 29 – November 1, 2016!

We offer a $500 early enrollment discount for L&L applications received by February 1, 2016.

Northwest Connections
Integrating Education and Conservation in Montana's Crown of the Continent ecosystem.
P.O. Box 1309 | Swan Valley, MT 59826
406 754 3185
www.NorthwestConnections.org

IMAGE CREDITS: Backpacking/Sky Orndoff; Map, Forest/Stephanie Dunn; Garden/Katie Parker; Wetland/Faith Bernstein

Fall and spring internships available -- apply by Friday, October 2
Environment Massachusetts is building a clean and renewable future powered by the sun.
We could meet all of America’s energy needs by capturing just a sliver of the virtually limitless and pollution-free energy of the sun. And we're making a lot of progress: in Massachusetts, solar energy has grown more than 200-fold since 2006.
But we’re still getting most of our electricity from dirty fossil fuels, and powerful utility companies are threatening to stop solar in its tracks. So right now, we’re building support for a goal of getting 20% of Massachusetts' electricity from solar by 2025. In order to persuade our governor to go big on solar energy, we’ll mobilize public support, build a powerful coalition of businesses and elected officials, and get the word out in the media.
As an intern with Environment Massachusetts, you’ll push for smart solutions to environmental problems and build the public support it takes to win. You’ll make a real difference on critical issues while developing valuable skills and experience in one of the nation’s leading environmental nonprofits.
We’re hiring interns for the fall and spring semester. The deadline to apply for is Friday, October 2.
Apply today! Visit http://bit.ly/EnvMass-internship to submit your application.
Questions? Contact Ben Hellerstein: ben@environmentmassachusetts.org, 617-747-4368.
Jobs with Impact
Make Your Impact for Our Environment, Our Democracy and Our Future
If you are interested in joining a team of passionate people to make an impact on issues like global warming, clean water, big money’s influence over our democracy and other issues that matter to our future, consider a job with Impact.
 
Impact is a nonprofit that runs action campaigns. We work in states where we can win positive change for our environment, our democracy and our future.
Impact is now accepting applications to join our team in August 2016! Our early application deadline is September 27th. We also have immediate positions available.
 
If you aren’t looking for a full-time job, you can also make a big difference through an internship with Impact.
 
You can learn more and apply online.

If you agree that it’s time for Massachusetts to go solar, the best thing you can do to get involved is to apply to be an Environment Massachusetts intern today. We’re looking for students who care deeply about the environment and are ready to make a difference now.
As an intern:
  • You’ll push for smart solutions to environmental problems, and build the public support it takes to win.
  • You’ll work side-by-side with one of our organizers, learning the ropes.
  • And you’ll make a real difference on critical issues, while developing valuable skills and experience in one of the nation’s leading environmental nonprofits.

Apply today! Visit bit.ly/1eY9pA9 to submit your application. Be sure to choose "Boston, MA" under "Where are you applying to intern?"
Questions? Contact Ben Hellerstein: ben@environmentmassachusetts.org, 617-747-4368.

   
The Grassroots Jobsource connects the leaders  
of tomorrow with  
good work today.  
Here's your once-monthly jobs and internships update from Orion! From environmental education and organic farming to advocacy and organizing, if you're passionate about making change in the world, there's an opportunity listed at our Grassroots Jobsource that could be perfect for you.  

Click here to receive these free e-mail updates from the Grassroots Jobsource. You can also opt to receive Orion magazine's main e-mail newsletter, "Fresh from Orion," while there.

Feel the Bern! That's what folks are saying about Bernie Sanders these days, read our interview with him about the climate, Keystone, money in politics, and more here.
Latest Jobsource Listings

Some new internships:
 
Felidae Conservation Fund
San Francisco, CA
Saddle Ridge Farm 
Culpeper, VA 

EarthWorks   
Washington, DC  
   
Earth Island Institute
Berkeley, CA 
 
Arthur Morgan School
Burnsville, NC

Natural Resources Intern
(veterans only can apply)
Deschutes National Forest
Bend, OR
 
     

View ALL of the current job and internship listings here.  
Some recent job listings:

Ruffner Mountain Preserve
Birmingham, AL

Organizing Representative
Sierra Club/Beyond Coal
Owensboro, KY or southern IN
Selawik Wildlife Refuge
Kotzebue, AK

National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition
Washington, DC
Student Conservation Association
Houston, TX 
      
Food and Water Watch   
Southern CA 







Receive a Free Trial Issue of Orion

Request a free trial issue of Orion, which the Boston Globe has called "America's finest environmental magazine." If you like what you read, you can then
subscribe for just $19!  

 



Orion

 
Fellows
Our fellows don’t just sit behind a desk. You’ll be out in the real world—recruiting new groups to join a coalition, speaking in a church basement or town hall to win a new endorsement, organizing a news event or rally, meeting with an editorial board, or doing whatever else it takes to urge our public officials to do the right thing. This is a two-year program, expressly designed to prepare future leaders within PIRG. We look for smarts, leadership experience, top-notch written and verbal skills, and an eagerness to learn. We value experience organizing, including building campus groups.
 
Digital Campaigners
Our digital campaigners help us design and win campaigns on some of the most important issues affecting the public today. This position is an exciting way to organize and motivate people online. Our online campaigns reach tens of thousands of people and spread the word about making change. This is a position for professionals who are ready to turn online skills into political action. We’re looking for people with sharp writing skills, savvy strategic ability, and a talent for using social media.
 
To learn more and apply, visit jobs.uspirg.org.
 
U.S. PIRG is an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, age, sex, handicap, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or veteran status.


Campaigns
We’re working to stop global warming: We took a big step forward last summer when President Obama directed his Environmental Protection Agency to develop standards that would cut carbon pollution from power plants, the nation’s largest contributors to global warming pollution. This historic step won’t be enough to fully solve the problem, but it’ll be an important start. But standing in the way, at every step, is one of the most powerful special interests in the world: the fossil fuel industry. That’s where we come in. We’re working to rally millions of American citizens, along with local elected officials and other powerful voices to back the President’s plan.
We’re making sure we don’t frack our future: Dirty and dangerous fracking could soon put some of America’s most spectacular places at risk. And we know that this especially destructive method of drilling for gas contaminates water and turns forests and rural landscapes into industrial zones – making nearby families sick and contributing significantly to global warming as well. Now, we’re working to offset the outsized influence of the oil and gas industry and keep our remarkable special places protected.
We’re working to protect our rivers, lakes and streams:  To protect our waterways from pollution and destruction we need to crack down on factory farm pollution, sewage and other threats. And we know it won’t be easy because of big opposition from the Farm Bureau, giant agribusiness and others. Now, we’re working to harness grassroots support for clean water and turn it into the political power we need to have a lasting direct impact on our waterways.
Becoming an Environment America intern
We’re looking for students who care deeply about the environment and are ready to make a difference now.
As an intern:
  • You’ll learn how to analyze environmental problems, push for smart solutions, and build the public support it takes to win
  • You’ll work side-by-side with one of our organizers, learning the ropes.
  • And you'll attend briefings and trainings to learn even more about environmental issues and gain organizing skill
  • And if you’re thinking you might want to make a career out of solving big environmental problems like global warming – interning with Environment America is one of the best ways to get started. Not only will you get the training and experience you need, but we hire our most talented and committed interns to join our Fellowship Program when they graduate. 
We’re hiring interns in Boston and 29 states nationwide. Email Madeline Page, Environment America’s Global Warming Outreach Director at mpage@environmentamerica.org with questions or to apply!
  • Interviewing Skills for A&S Students, Thursday, January 28. Register here.
  • FTI Consulting, Info Session: January 25 (multiple positions posted)
  • Sanofi Group, Info Session: January 26 (multiple positions posted)
  • Non-Profit Undergraduate Paid Summer Internships, Forest Foundation
  • Teaching Fellow Program, Newton Country Day School

Fully funded conference scholarship – energy path

Energypath is the region's largest sustainable energy event attracting industry professionals, policymakers and academia throughout the region and across the United States.
Energypath is a week-long event consists of a three day pre-conference energy camp and a two day conference.  The energy camps are hands-on training in renewable energy technologies such as wind, solar pv, bioenergy, passive house, and micro-hydro. 
To assist you, the Sustainable Energy Fund is proud to provide full scholarships to students and educators on a first come, first serve basis to attend Energypath 2016 at Penn State, State College, PA July 25th-29th.
Register now! Time and space are limited.  Thank you and we look forward to seeing you!
Interested in presenting at Energypath or teaching a Fuel Cell or Energy Storage class?  Please find more information here.



The January 2016 Conference of the International Society of Tropical Foresters at Yale, Tropical Forests for Sustainable Development: Shaping our Post-2015 Future with Knowledge from the Field, will provide a space for discussions between forest practitioners, researchers and sustainable development policy actors to inform the early implementation of the sustainable development goals and the post-2015 sustainable development agenda. If you are interested in participating in this timely discussion on the role of tropical forests in sustainable development, register for the conference at http://istf.yale.edu/registration.



I am contacting you with regards to a survey I am conducting of undergraduate students at Boston College, as part of my senior Thesis research.

The survey link is attached:  http://goo.gl/forms/vB5J2h9SuK It should take about ten minutes to complete the survey, and it is done anonymously.

The purpose of the research is to better understand belief formation, specifically with regards to climate change. Overall, this research will provide insight into the causes of different opinions on climate change, specifically on the Boston College campus. Identifying the potential roots of climate change denial will allow conversations, lectures, and campus groups to be more constructive in their explanations of climate change. Moreover, identifying potential causes of climate change denial on campus can help inform dialogue about climate change on a larger scale.

I appreciate your help if you would be willing to complete this survey and pass along the link to any of your friends!

Thank you!
Courtney Cameron



(Syllabus attached)
Feast on the International Law of Food this summer!



                Experience a 4-week banquet in the form of summer study in Parma, Italy -- one of the few courses in the world devoted to the international law of food, an issue of immense emerging importance.

The course, which will be held in the city considered the European or even the world capital of food, covers food supply, safety, security, subsidies, trade, and a variety of other contemporary issues.  Field trips include visits to the European Food Safety Authority in Parma and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization in Rome, as well as a cooking class at a local culinary institute. 

                Taught by Boston College Law Professor David Wirth, who has extensive academic and practical experience in the field, the course should be of particular interest to those considering law school as a user-friendly introduction to legal method.  It will cover material of interest to those studying social sciences, including international relations, international studies, political science, and sociology, as well as to generalists from all disciplines.

                Application deadline is February 5, 2016.  Students who are potentially interested in the program are encouraged to initiate the user-friendly application before that date so as to reserve a place in the course.  There are no prerequisites, and no knowledge of Italian is required.

INTL 2253, LAWS 2253 International Law of Food
May 29-June 26, 2016, University of Parma, Italy
3 credits in International Studies

Elective credit for Environmental Studies major or minor.  Applications pending for approval for Cultural Diversity core credit and credit in the Political Science Department.

                The course description, syllabus, and line application can be found at www.bc.edu/international.  Click on “Summer Abroad,” “Programs,” then “International Law of Food” under “Europe/Parma, Italy.”  For more information e-mail Professor Wirth at david.wirth@bc.edu and/or  Brian Fleming, a student in the course when it was previously taught, at brian.fleming26@gmail.com.

Decoding Ireland's DNA (Students receive credit for BIOL1420 - The Genetic Century)
(June 4 - July 3, 2016)
For additional information, contact Professor Clare O'Connor (clare.oconnor@bc.edu) or the Office of International Programs (oip@bc.edu)



We are currently accepting applications for a NSF Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program based at Colby College and South Gondar, Ethiopia. This REU will provide eight American undergraduate students from diverse academic backgrounds an opportunity to conduct path-breaking interdisciplinary research on the ecological, economic and cultural roles of church forests. Church forests are patches of Afromontane forest surrounding Ethiopian Orthodox churches. Preserved for centuries by church leaders and communities as religious sanctuaries, church forests are, in many parts of Ethiopia, the only indigenous forests left.

The BEA Institute organizes short term study abroad programs in Ireland, Iceland and South Africa. Our programs draw diverse groups of students from all over the world to experience a new country together and learn from one another. Our programs are unique in that they are on average 20-40 students in size. This small size provides a more intimate and impactful experience for our students; a life changing experience.

Our 2016 South Africa program runs June 8th-21st. This program will include lectures from experienced professors and guest speakers from the best Universities in South Africa.

A few of our local professors include:
·         Professor Dr. Rod Alence (University of the Witwatersrand, Best University in South Africa) -  Previous Head of Department

   PHD from Stanford University
   Previous Fulbright researcher at the University of Ghana’s Legon Centre for    International Affairs.
   Holds nine distinctions and two winners of the School of Social Sciences postgraduate research prize.

·         Prof. Dr. Gilbert Khadiagala at the University of the Witwatersrand - Jan Smuts Professor of International Relations and Head of Department
                 
♦Published on politics and security in Southern Africa, the Great Lakes Region, Eastern, and the Horn of Africa
♦Specializes in African International Relations, Conflict Management and Resolution, African Regional and Sub-Regional Institutions, and Comparative Political Institutions.

The students will enrich their knowledge of South Africa’s history, international politics and economics while also visiting monumental and historically significant places. We also encourage students to get to know one another and share cultural values through planned social events and simulations.

Some of the excursions include:
·  Nelson Mandela’s Jail Cell at Robben Island
·  Big 5 African Safari in the Greater Kruger National Park
·  Apartheid Museum
·  Visit President Nelson Mandela’s home in Soweto (South West Township)
·  NGO Service Learning day with Local South African Leaders
·  Discover Songimvelo Game Reserve and the Cradle of Life
·  Service Learning Day (Local NGO) – Students paired with local South Africans for a meaningful day of service with a local NGO. Vision: Young people understanding their roles as powerful agents of change – actively, confidently and positively contributing towards a better global community

Please Note: We limit our South Africa programs to 24 students per program and 8 students per director/vehicle to enhance the students experience, safety, and learning.

We understand students utilize their winter and spring break to arrange plans for their upcoming summer. We hope you will consider recognition of our institute as an option for your students who are looking for international opportunities.

We offer an informative detailed student packet.
This in-depth 30+ page packet includes a brief history of South Africa, unique areas we are visiting and why they are special, a day-by-day itinerary, about BEA Institute and our partners, tips on traveling to South Africa, and much more.

You or a student can download the packet here: http://www.beainstitute.org/download-south-africa-student-packet/




Thank you very much for your support, and to find more information about our Institute and program, please visit http://www.beainstitute.org/beai/south-africa/.

Kind regards,


Benjamin Doherty
President | Ben.Doherty@beainstitute.org |+1 (941) 302-0483
www.BEAInstitute.org |2750 Stickney Point Road, Sarasota, FL 34231

PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Environmental Science Institute (ESI) of the University of Texas at Austin announces an NSF-funded program during the summer of 2016 for undergraduates interested in environmental science research. Students will be trained in laboratory and field methods applied to studies of global change and its impacts and will work on independent projects under the supervision of a faculty mentor. Project areas are interdisciplinary and encompass the fields of chemistry, biology, ecology, urban ecology, policy, civil engineering, and geological sciences. Students will participate in a weekly research seminar series, portfolio creation, and professional development activities. Students will also participate in field excursions related to scientific research. These 1-2 day activities may require physical exertion involving hiking, caving, camping, and/or boat rides in hot and humid weather. The summer program will conclude with a research poster session and open house.

Your summer research will be in one of three major themes:

Each REU student will be part of a separate research group headed by a faculty mentor, but all will come together regularly for cross-cohort seminars and field experiences and to examine and participate in the projects of your colleagues.
Please note that this summer’s program is dependent on award and receipt of funds by the University of Texas at Austin from the National Science Foundation.

WHY CONDUCT RESEARCH ON THE CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTS IN SEMI-ARID REGIONS?
The environmental challenges posed by global change are among the greatest our society faces, and science provides the means to understand the nature and extent of these challenges, including climate change, loss of biodiversity, and threats to water resources and infrastructure systems.  The complex nature of these problems demands that scientists be prepared to analyze these issues from multiple perspectives, integrating knowledge of science, policy, and practice. Addressing these requires an interdisciplinary approach that intertwines geology, hydrology, ecology, and civil and environmental engineering with fields addressing human impacts such as environmental policy, law, and sustainability. An interdisciplinary approach to understanding these global change issues is, thus, an imperative for any successful solution.

WHY STUDY AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN?
The University of Texas at Austin is home to top faculty and researchers in the area of global change research, and the Environmental Science Institute brings together UT researchers from a variety of disciplines to build connections between scientific and policy fields related to the environment in the area of Global Change, thereby giving REU participants a broad perspective on the state of climate change science and impacts.  This also means that undergraduates in the REU conduct environmental research that cuts across disciplinary boundaries and participants are encouraged to tackle these multidimensional environmental issues with this unique, interdisciplinary perspective.  ESI’s REU in Climate Change Impacts in Semi-Arid Regions offers: (1) an engaging research experience, (2) the excitement of scientific inquiry, (3) professional development opportunities, (4) research communication workshops and symposia, and (5) an expanded perspective on graduate school and a career in science.
The city of Austin is a fun and exciting place to visit and to live.  Take a dip in Barton Springs, tour the Texas State Capitol, check out the bats at the Congress Avenue Bridge, spend an evening on Sixth Street or South Congress Avenue, sample some barbecue or Tex-Mex, or get outside at Zilker Park or on the hike and bike trails.  And certainly catch a show in “The Live Music Capital of the World.”

PARTICIPANT MENTORSHIP
Students in the program will each work in a faculty-mentored research group.  Research project descriptions for the 2016 program are available online.  You will be prompted for your top three project preferences when you apply.
After the program completion, many previous participants have elected to continue their research beyond the summer, publishing and presenting papers at professional conferences.

SCHEDULE AND SUPPORT
The ten-week 2016 program is expected to begin Friday June 3 and end Wednesday August 10, 2016.  In certain circumstances, students needing to arrive late or leave early due to conflicting academic calendars can be accommodated; please contact us with the specifics of your request.
All students will be housed in a UT dormitory and the costs of the dormitory and meal plan are included in the program.  Each student will be awarded a stipend of approximately $5,000 for the summer, and some travel funds will be available to help defray the cost of traveling to Austin.  Receipt of the full salary amount will be contingent upon completion of the program requirements.
The 2016 Summer Events Calendar will be posted in May.  In the meantime, the REU 2014 Summer Events Calendar is available as a reference.

EXPECTATIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Program participants are expected to make a full-time commitment to the program, with on average 40 hours per week spent in the field and lab.  Participants are expected to attend all program seminars and events, to complete any assignments in anticipation of and as follow-up to each of these events.
Participants must also be prepared to engage in field work may include (but is certainly not limited to) hiking, caving, camping, and boating.  This field work can occur in extremely hot weather and/or inclement conditions, and can last as long as 1-2 days.
All participants must provide proof of health insurance coverage for the entire duration of the program.  ESI has an additional agreement with University Health Services whereby if you need to visit them, you will be seen in Urgent Care and must be responsible for paying any related fees and follow-up costs yourself.

 HOW TO APPLY
Students in their sophomore or junior years of college, with strong credentials and majoring in biology, ecology, geological sciences, civil or environmental engineering, environmental policy, marine science, chemistry, or any other environmentally-related discipline, are encouraged to apply.  Participants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents.  All coursework must be current and complete.

The application deadline is FEBRUARY 17, 2016, midnight (your local time).

The application is available here: https://utexas.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_3xvZLfJ82aS31Ax.

You will need the following items:
-Transcripts:  Your college transcript (an unofficial copy is okay);
-Your Personal Statement
-Letters of Recommendation.  You must arrange to have your two letters of recommendation sent to us directly by your referees as an email attachment to Dr. Eric Hersh at esi@esi.utexas.edu.  These pdf documents must be titled as “Last Name_REU2016.pdf”.

Also, have the following information on hand when you apply:
-Expected date of graduation
-GPA (out of 4.0)
-Email address, current mailing address, and permanent address
-Names and email addresses of two faculty members at your undergraduate institution who have agreed to provide a recommendation for you to the program.

Please note that if supplementary material, such as letters of recommendation, are not received within 7 days of the application due date, your application may be removed from consideration.

We look forward to receiving your application!
  
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Please check out our frequently asked questions.  For questions not listed, please contact our office at esi@esi.utexas.edu or (512) 471-5847.


Wind Energy Graduate Research Fellowships
Fall 2016
College of Earth, Ocean, and Environment
University of Delaware, USA

The University of Delaware (UD) and the Delaware Municipal Electric Corporation (DEMEC) established a graduate research fellowship in wind energy research as part of the purchase and sale of renewable energy credits (RECs) generated by UD’s 2MW wind turbine that is located adjacent to the College of Earth, Ocean, and Environment’s (CEOE) Lewes, Delaware campus.  Separately, the Magers Family established a Wind Energy graduate fellowship in CEOE’s School of Marine Science and Policy. 

Fellows will be advised, as appropriate, by a faculty member whose principal appointment is in Marine Policy (MP), Physical Ocean Science and Engineering (POSE), Geography or Geological Sciences.  

We seek a fellow for an ongoing research project focused on socio-economic/cultural dimensions of wind energy and are also particularly interested in prospective students with interest in grid integration; marine logistics; environmental risk assessment; spatial planning; wind meteorology, resource assessment and wind turbine wakes; geological and geotechnical aspects of wind projects; and cost of energy, including social costs. Each fellow will matriculate in the MP, POSE, Geological Sciences or Geography academic program, as appropriate, in Fall 2016 (February 2016 admissions could also be considered).  Only matriculating students are eligible for either research fellowship.  We also offer a Interdisciplinary Graduate Certificate in Wind Power Science, Engineering and Policy, so successful applicants will have the option of obtaining that specialist certificate in addition to a graduate degree.

UD’s Wind Power Program is part of the larger Center for Carbon-free Power Integration (CCPI), which is managed by faculty in three colleges (CEOE, Business and Economics, and Engineering), and which also focuses on grid-integrated electric vehicles. In addition, we have an exchange program with the Technical University of Denmark (DTU).
 
As the leading academic program in offshore wind energy in the Americas, we prepare students for successful careers in government, nongovernmental organizations, research institutions, and the private sector.  Interested prospective graduate students should visit here.

When applying, please note in your personal statement your interest in a fellowship.

Fellowships include a tuition waiver for the Fall and Spring semesters and a stipend. Twelve-month stipends are approximately $26,000 for Ph.D. students and slightly less for Master’s students. Depending on individual circumstance, a 9-month stipend can be considered. Review of applications will begin immediately, so early application is encouraged.

If you intend to apply for the fellowship, you should notify, Janis Lopez, CEOE Assistant Dean for Graduate Studies at jclopez@udel.edu.  For questions regarding fellowships, please contact Professor Jeremy Firestone at jf@udel.edu; for questions regarding the graduate certificate educational program, please contact Professor John Madsen, CCPI’s Coordinator of Educational Programs at jmadsen@udel.edu.

New England Sustainability Consortium – The Future of Dams in New England


We, at the University of Massachusetts Boston, are excited to be offering eight fully funded Ph.D. fellowships in our new Coasts and Communities IGERT program. These fellowships are competitively awarded to Ph.D. students interested in conducting transdisciplinary research and developing innovative and sustainable solutions to the most pressing environmental challenges facing coasts and communities. Please feel free to widely disseminate the announcement below:

The Coasts and Communities IGERT (Integrative Graduate Education and Research Traineeship) program at the University of Massachusetts Boston is seeking applications from Ph.D. students who have applied or intend to apply to one of our environmental Ph.D. programs (https://www.umb.edu/igert/apply/fellows). Coasts and Communities fellowships are awarded to Ph.D. students whose academic and intellectual interests center on the development and implementation of sustainable solutions to environmental problems. These solutions evolve through academic and research experiences at the intersection of disciplines. Therefore, applicants should be deeply committed to the principles of transdisciplinarity. Moreover, because environmental problems do not recognize geographic boundaries, the fellows work across geographies through active engagement with our partners in the Horn of Africa. Consequently, successful applicants are expected to bring a global perspective to their work.

For more information on the Coasts and Communities IGERT fellowships, please visit https://www.umb.edu/IGERT or contact the IGERT program manager, Dr. Maria Petrova, at maria.petrova@umb.edu. Eligible applicants are encouraged to communicate directly with the participating Ph.D. programs, which have earlier deadlines (in December 2015 and January 2016), prior to submitting an IGERT application, the deadline for which is February 15, 2016.


Best regards,
Maria A. Petrova



Three Fully Funded Masters Positions in Human/Climate Interactions & Forecasting

The Applied Climatology Lab with Memorial University’s Dept. of Geography is seeking graduate applicants for multiple MSc and MA positions. Successful candidates will research the intersection of natural and social sciences, while collaborating with partners in industry and government.  Any students with interests in weather, climate, and related impacts on society are encouraged to contact Joel Finnis (jfinnis@mun.ca). All positions are fully funded, and students can choose from several degree options (see below).
 
Improving forecasts of Grand Banks fog (MSc; Geography, Math & Stats, or Env Sci)
Located near the intersection of the cold Labrador Current and warm Gulf Stream, the Grand Banks of Newfoundland experience frequent heavy fog events. These pose a hazard to marine workers and a significant challenge to marine forecasters.  We are seeking an MSc student with interests in weather and marine hazards to test novel approaches to improving fog forecast reliability.  The successful candidate will have a unique opportunity to work across academic, industry, and government sectors, collaborating with partners at AMEC Environment and Infrastructure and Environment Canada. Funded through the Marine Environment Observation Prediction and Response (MEOPAR) Network.   
Even a perfect weather forecast is only useful if it is i) efficiently communicated and ii) acted upon.  Unfortunately, a range of factors can constrain the effectiveness of forecasts for particular uses and their uptake and application. These might include (among others):  limited understanding of user needs among forecasters, problems with spatial and temporal scale, or lack of capacity to respond to forecasts. The nature and consequences of these factors likely varies between forecast users (i.e. oil and gas companies vs fish harvesters), leading to different requirements for and approaches to forecast data across stakeholder groups.  We are seeking an MA candidate with strong interpersonal skills to examine the constraints on effectiveness of weather forecasting across industry sectors, and help identify strategies for addressing these constraints. Work experience and knowledge of the marine sector would be an asset. Funded through MEOPAR; partners include SafetyNet.



Middlebury School of the Environment
June 24th to August 5th, 2016


I am pleased to announce that we are now accepting applications for the Summer 2016 session of the Middlebury School of the Environment (MSoE).

Please pass this along to any of your undergraduate students who may be interested in a for-credit summer program that combines coursework in environmental studies with leadership and professional skills training.

The Middlebury School of the Environment is a six-week, integrated program, running from June 24 to August 5, 2016, on Middlebury College’s main campus in Vermont.

The program offers nine semester-hour credits, and financial aid is available.

Our session last summer was quite successful, and I’m pleased to say that for this coming summer we will be offering the same mix of formal coursework and leadership training as in previous years.

The curriculum involves two different tracks of study, one on sustainability and understanding place (taught at a more advanced level and intended for students with previous coursework in environmental studies) and one on systems thinking and environmental analysis (taught at a more introductory level).

Each student, regardless of their track of study, also enrolls in one of four electives, depending on their interests: Environmental Video Production; Wicked Environmental Problems; Environmental Pollution; or Religion, Nature, and Justice.

The co-curricular program on leadership training focuses on helping students develop the skills they need as professionals to do something effective with the information they learn in their studies.  For this, the faculty of the MSoE are joined by leading environmental professionals and experts in a number of skills that will enhance each student’s ability to be successful no matter what choose to do with their college education.

Applications for admission and financial are accepted on a rolling basis until enrollment is complete.  It is recommended that interested students submit their applications sooner rather than later.

I’m happy to talk to anyone regarding our program.  Feel free to write to me directly – or have your interested students write to me – with any questions.

Cheers,

Steve Trombulak

Dr. Stephen C. Trombulak
Director, Middlebury School of the Environment
Middlebury College, Middlebury, VT 05753
trombulak@middlebury.edu | steve.trombulak (Skype)
802-443-5439 (office) | 802-377-7294 (cell)
sites.middlebury.edu/trombulak (home page)


NEE will be accepting applications until March 11 for three paid summer internships in our Natural Resource, Ecological Restoration and Landscape Architecture Departments.







Job Opening – Seasonal Research Assistant

The Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve is seeking qualified applicants for a full-time (40 hours per week) seasonal Research Assistant position.  The position will last for five months from approximately March 21, 2016 to August 19, 2016. 

During the first 10 weeks the position will support ongoing monitoring of diadromous fish species in Southern Maine rivers.  Work will primarily include field data collection through the use of trapping, netting, and visual surveys.  The Research Assistant will work with Reserve staff and volunteers to deploy and maintain equipment, collect samples, manage data, and conduct lab analyses.  They will also assist with dissemination of project outcomes through written reports and public outreach. 

During the remaining 12 weeks the position will support several ongoing data collection efforts which will include monitoring of salt-marsh vegetation, surveys of marsh use by wading birds, and ichthyoplankton sampling. The Research Assistant may also have the opportunity to attend periodic trainings and lectures that take place at the Reserve and access other professional development opportunities.

Qualified applicants will possess a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related field.  Experience with collecting data in the field and following written protocols is highly desired.  Applicants should also be able to work collaboratively as a member of a team and work well independently, and should be organized and detail oriented.  Applicants must hold a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.

The Research Assistant will be compensated at $10.00 per hour and will be eligible to receive free onsite housing.  The Research Assistant will be granted paid leave on the Memorial Day and Independence Day holidays.

Interested applicants should send a cover letter, resume of work experience, three professional or academic references, and a copy of their college transcript by email to jacobaman@wellsnerr.org
or by mail to:

attn: Jacob Aman
Wells Reserve
342 Laudhom Farm Road
Wells, Maine 04090

Applications must be received by February 19, 2016 to be considered.

For more information about the Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve and our work please visit our website at www.wellsreserve.org.


Ever wanted to use your skills to study and protect some of the world's most interesting and beautiful protected areas? The U.S. National Park Service is now hiring multiple seasonal positions in parks around Alaska for a variety of physical science tasks including glaciology, coastal landform mapping, GIS, freshwater monitoring, geohazards, fluvial geomorphology, and many others. Please share these links of the job descriptions widely with potentially interested U.S. citizens. 






Through research and under the guidance of interpretation park rangers, the candidate presents thematic house and grounds tours of Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site in Brookline. In addition, the candidate orients visitors to the site, makes them feel welcome, and provides informal background on the history and significance of this National Park Service site. The Interpretation Ambassador answers incoming phone calls, responds to general inquiries, provides information and/or directs calls appropriately (a phone directory and a list of who’s who at the site is in your orientation folder.)  Throughout the day, the intern ensures the visitor center looks neat and professional and keeps the site bulletins well-stocked at the desk, and in the outside brochure dispenser.  In addition to welcoming and informing visitors, answering phones, and the door, the intern records and tracks visitor statistics, and does other administrative tasks as assigned.  There might be opportunities for cross-training with other divisions and developing off-site walks of regional Olmsted-design landscapes, depending on the candidate’s skills and interest. 

Skills:  Public speaking skills, good communication skills, ability to research and disseminate information to the public, interest and/or background in history, American studies, art history, architecture, and/or other related discipline.

Time Commitment:   Ideally, the candidate would work 30 hours a week, including at least one weekend day.

Application Procedure: Please submit a current resume, cover letter, and names and contact information for three references (preferably one work, one academic, and one peer reference) to:
Mark Swartz, Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site, 99 Warren Street, Brookline, MA 02445; Mark_Swartz@nps.gov.
Our telephone number is 617-566-1689.


A good source for ideas about internships and jobs is the "Green Jobs and Career Network" which is a professional group you can join through Linked In. Make sure it shows up on your linked in profile that you are a member of the group, and also try to "give as well as take" by blogging and offering ideas, information and links to share with the network.
Professor Laura Foote




Posting to bring attention to a recent vacancy announcement for a Geoscientist in the Parks internship at Grand Canyon National Park.  The intern will help with several fluvial geomorphic projects in the park and will be a key member of the park's physical science team for 3 to 6 months.  Internship details can be found here: https://rock.geosociety.org/eo/viewJob.asp?jobID=1907

Questions can be directed to:

Ed Schenk
Senior physical scientist
Grand Canyon National Park






Solar Campaign Internships




 


And if you’re thinking you might want to make a career out of solving our greatest environmental problems, interning with Environment Massachusetts is one of the best ways to get started. You’ll get the training and experience you need, and we hire our most talented and committed interns to join our staff when they graduate.







Looking for a job that makes a difference? U.S.PIRG is hiring college seniors to work as Campus Organizers on college campuses across the country. On issue after issue, we see powerful interests corrupting the democratic process, twisting public policy to serve their own ends. U.S. PIRG takes action by documenting the problems, finding practical solutions, informing the public and making the case for change directly to decision-makers. We work on fighting climate change, restoring democracy, and protecting public health. Apply online atwww.uspirg.org/jobs or email wellington@masspirgstudents.org for more details.

PIRG stands for the Public Interest Research Group. We take on issues where the public needs a champion—someone to stand up to powerful interests when they push the other way. We know that smart policy solutions and real change won’t just happen. You need to organize, advocate and fight for them.


What do interns with Environment America interns do?  You’ll help us educate and engage more students and citizens on the most critical environmental issues of our time. You’ll help us get our issues into the media, build coalitions, organize events and lobby decision-makers. Ultimately, you’ll help us build the kind of public support it takes to win.
If you agree that it’s time to solve these big environmental problems, the best thing you can do to get involved is to apply to be an Environment America intern today.


Coming up:
Friday, January 22
Launch or revive your job or internship search to start the spring semester off right! This event is organized into four skills-based breakout sessions, as well as a “Recruiting Tips Revealed” panel. All class years and majors are welcome to join us for some or all of the event. Register here.

Back from Abroad? Tips to Market Your Experience
Monday, January 25
Just returning from your abroad experience? Not sure how to articulate your international experience to others or on your professional documents? A panel co-sponsored by the Career Center and the Office of International Programs will discuss best practices for re-integrating into BC, reflecting on your time abroad, and articulating your international experience for professional development. Register here.

Science Networking Night & Internships in the Sciences Panel
Tuesday, January 26
Are you considering or currently pursuing a degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Math, Computer Science, Chemistry, Physics, or Environmental Science? Come learn from your peers about their internship experiences related to these programs and network with BC alumni. Register here.

Wednesday, January 27
Your resume and LinkedIn profile are the first impression an employer has of you!  Meet with an expert (employer, alumna/us) to review your resume or LinkedIn profile.  Sign up for a spot here.

Practice Interview Night
Tuesday, February 9
Learn from and practice your interview skills with employers.

SAVE THE DATE: 
2016 GREEN CAREERS NIGHT, Tuesday, March 22, 6-8 PM. 
More details to come...

Opportunities with the Joseph E. Corcoran Center for Real Estate and Urban Action
How Do We House a Changing Nation? The Business of Affordable Housing
feat. Karen Kelleher, Deputy Director, MassHousing
January 26, 2016

Ongoing opportunities:
Career Chats
Informal group advising sessions led by Career Center staff, Career Chats allow students to engage in discussion around various career-related topics with their peers.  Career Chats will be held several times per week across campus.  Come and go as you are able. See the schedule in EagleLink.

Upcoming topics include:

Information Sessions & On Campus Recruiting
This is just a sampling of many full-time and internship opportunities available.  Visit EagleLink to see more.

A sampling of what is to come:

As always, if a specific event or event type catches your eye as particularly relevant to your department, please don’t hesitate to reach out; we’d love the opportunity to work with you to ensure that this event reaches the students for whom it will be the most beneficial.