University of Maine: School of Biology and Ecology

The new School of Biology and Ecology was formed this year (2007) as a central home for research and teaching programs in organismal biology and ecology at the University of Maine. Our programs span biology in both scale (cellular to global) and discipline (developmental biology to ecology and biogeochemistry).

We recognize that meeting the challenges of today’s human and environmental health issues now requires a solid foundation in organismal biology that encompasses the basic principles of anatomy, physiology, genetics, and development, integrated with an understanding of ecosystems and evolutionary principles. Among the broadest challenges facing science today relate to changes that human activities are causing in the earth's climate, on landscapes, and biogeochemical cycles and ecosystem processes. These changes have consequences for ecosystem structure and function, agricultural and forestry production, and human health and disease. Recent advances in our understanding of these issues have come about through effective integration of many different areas of science. Within biological sciences, principles derived from a variety of disciplines such as ecology, population biology, evolution and taxonomy, as well as the genetics, physiology, growth, and development of a broad array of organisms (e.g. bacteria, fungi, plants and animals) are integrated. Their collective strengths are powerful tools for future research on the organisms, natural resources, and quality of life in Maine, as well as throughout the world.

The School of Biology and Ecology serves the following goals:

Goal 1: Enhance Integrative Studies in Biology
Goal 2: Serve a Central Mission of Biology: the Study of Organisms
Goal 3: Serve as a Center of Excellence in Ecology

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Schoodic Experience 2009

The School of Biology and Ecology welcomes incoming first-year students with an off-campus orientation at the Schoodic Education and Research Center in Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island. The Schoodic Experience introduces incoming students to the SBE faculty and program in a relaxed and casual atmosphere on Maine’s beautiful coast. While at Schoodic, students participate in faculty-led field activities, explore Schoodic’s facilities and enjoy Mount Desert Island, all while meeting and getting to know other students in the school.

More information about facilities, previous trips, and this year’s itinerary can be found here. Registration for the Schoodic Experience ended June 5, 2009. All costs a...(more)

Summer Volunteer Field Work Position

Volunteers needed for local field work - Volunteers are needed to help sample insects and conduct bird point counts near Amherst, Maine. The field crew will visit the site in early mornings once a week from May until July 2009 to investigate the effects of acid rain on breeding songbirds. No previous field experience is necessary, but applicants with interest in the outdoors and the ability to hike over fairly steep terrain are encouraged. This is a great, low-time investment position for an aspiring field researcher to gain training in bird song and other field methods necessary for procuring paid positions. If you are interested please contact Dr. Brian Olsen on first class.

Summer Field Assistant

FIELD ASSISTANT (1, possibly 2) needed for a saltmarsh sharp-tailed sparrow study. We are looking for a highly motivated individual with interests in songbirds and songbird conservation to spend the summer on the coast of Maine. Work will be on the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge and will focus on the breeding ecology and conservation of this unique songbird. Daily field work will involve identifying and following saltmarsh sharp-tailed sparrows (including determination between the closely related Nelson’s sharp-tailed sparrow), nest-searching and monitoring, habitat surveys, and some data entry (though emphasis will be on the field work).

Experience in nest searching and songbird identification is preferred, though not required. Absolutely required: some field experience, keen observational skills, a strong enthusiasm for birds and avian research, binoculars (8x42 or 10x42), and a willingness to spend long hours outside.

Housing, transportation to and from field locations, and a stipend will be provided. Approximate start date and duration: 15 May – 15 Aug.

Please send resume, cover letter, and a list of three references to: LEAH CULP, MS Candidate, University of Maine, School of Biology and Ecology Leah.Culp@umit.maine.edu. Positions will be filled as qualified applications are received. Number of positions will depend on available funding.

Summer Volunteer Field Assistant

VOLUNTEER FIELD ASSISTANT (1, maybe 2) needed for a Blackpoll warbler research project set in the beautiful White Mountains of New Hampshire. The objectives of this project are to understand the role migratory strategy plays in the ecology and physiology of boreal breeding songbirds (including the Blackpoll) and determining what role migration distance may play in population dynamics. No experience is necessary as all training will be provided. This is a great opportunity to learn songbird identification and observation techniques while gaining hands on field experience. You will become familiar with the daily lives of these elusive birds and ultimately discover their nests. Applicants are recommended to bring their own pair of binoculars (8x42 or 10x42) though a pair may be provided if you do not own any. Applicants are required to have a passion for learning about birds and the natural world, a willingness to work long hours in the field in sometimes difficult conditions, and the patience to observe difficult-to-see species.

Housing and some per diem food costs (depending on funding) will be covered by the project. This position may be ideal for undergraduates who are looking for undergraduate research experience if in the University of Maine program (BIO 387-8, 3 credits under the instruction of Dr. Rebecca Holberton) to satisfy a University of Maine Capstone project requirement. Credits can be earned during the summer and applied to the fall semester. The duration of the project is from 1 June through 1 Aug, though the actual start date depends upon snow-melt conditions. Workers would need to commit to at least 8 weeks during this period.

Please send any questions about the project, as well as a resume, cover letter, and a list of names and contact information (email and phone number) for 3 people willing to serve as references to: EVAN ADAMS, Doctoral student, University of Maine, School of Biology and Ecology. Positions will be filled as qualified applications are received.

Graduate Student Research Assistantship Available

Looking for a prospective MS or PhD graduate student to join a team of researchers investigating genetic diversity and reproductive ecology of Vaccinium angustifolium (lowbush blueberry) in either wild or managed landscapes. Botany or genetics background preferred but not required. Candidates should also have an interest in ecology as this study will also investigate spatial population genetic patterns and their implications in regard to bee pollinators. The stipend is a 12-month research fellowship ($ 22,000) renewed annually based upon student progress. Please contact Dr. Frank Drummond in the School of Biology and Ecology (frank.drummond@umit.maine.edu) for more information.