DIRECTOR – TIMBERLAKE BIOLOGICAL FIELD STATION

The College of Science and Mathematics at Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas, invites qualified applicants to apply for a full-time (10.5-month), tenure-track position at the rank of Associate Professor or Professor to serve as the Associate Dean and Director of the Timberlake Biological Field Station.

Starting in Fall 2023, the position will require teaching a 2/2 course load in addition to the research and administrative duties. Teaching duties will be in the Department of Biological Sciences. Teaching load will vary depending on growth of operations at the field station, external funding, and supervision of doctoral students. Additionally, candidates will be expected to develop an active research program involving supervision of undergraduate and graduate student research. Preference will be given to candidates who will utilize the Timberlake Biological Field Station as a significant component of their research endeavors.

This position is expected to contribute to a doctoral program in biology that is being developed with an anticipated start of Fall, 2025. The candidate should have experience with doctoral level research including a record of accomplishment with the supervision of doctoral dissertations, an appropriate publication record, and external funding success over the past five years.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Continue the Field Station Advisory Council as a mechanism to engage the local community.
• Continue the Field Station Scientific Advisory Committee as a mechanism to engage the scientific community (Tarleton faculty and beyond).
• Develop and implement a land management plan for the Field Station.
• Develop and implement a strategic plan for the Field Station that engages k-12 schools, grows the research efforts, develops strategic partnerships, and expands use by Tarleton faculty and students.
• Implement appropriate recommendations from the 2021 external consultants’ report.
• Develop appropriate business practices and protocols for Field Station operations.
• Pursue external funding to support field station operations.
• Plan and implement programs and events that strategically expand field station use
• Manage the field station operations in safe and efficient manner.
• Supervise associated support personnel.

Applicants must have earned a doctorate in Biology, Ecology or related field. Must have earned a tenure and promotion to rank of associate professor or higher at a comparable institution. Experience with biological field station operations, strong leadership and strategic planning skills. Experience teaching appropriate biology courses at undergraduate and graduate levels and experience effectively supervising graduate students required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Outreach experience with K-12 schools, rural school districts a plus
• Experience with land management plans
• Experience supervising doctoral dissertations

Application packets only accepted on-line at https://www.tarleton.edu/jobs

Documents required: Completed online application, Cover Letter, Resume/CV, Three Professional References with complete contact information, Unofficial Transcripts.

All official transcripts, if required for position must be received directly from each degree-granting institution prior to a letter of appointment issued.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

A founding member of The Texas A&M University System, Tarleton transforms generations by inspiring discovery, leadership and inclusion through teaching and research. Degree programs for more than 15,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Midlothian, at A&M RELLIS at Bryan, and online emphasize real world learning that addresses regional needs while sustaining the values of excellence, integrity and respect.

Tarleton State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Veterans/Disability Employer. As a member of The Texas A&M System, Tarleton will provide equal opportunity for employment to all persons regardless of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation or gender identity and will strive to achieve full and equal employment opportunity through The Texas A&M System.

In partnership with the American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS), the Organization of Biological Field Stations (OBFS) is pleased to announce the 2023 delegation in support of federal investments in biological sciences research supported by the National Science Foundation and other federal agencies.

Members of the delegation will participate in AIBS Communication Bootcamp for Scientists in preparation for in-person meetings with members of Congress Monday, April 24. For the next two days, the entire team will then engage with Congressional staffers and members directly.

“The goal of these Congressional delegation visits is to not only help lawmakers understand the important role the federal government plays in supporting biological sciences,” said Dr. Lara Roketenetz, OBFS President and Director of the University of Akron Field Station. “We are fortunate to have a team
of researchers, leaders and advocates from a wide range of field station and marine lab institutions willing and able to speak on behalf of these critical endeavors.”

The Congressional Visits Day returns to the in-person format in 2023 after being held virtually in 2021 and 2022. The annual event enables scientists to meet with their federal lawmakers and help inform science policy. “AIBS is pleased to once again host this important event in Washington, DC, where scientists from around the country have the opportunity to discuss the impacts of federal investments in scientific research and education with lawmakers,” said Dr. Jyotsna Pandey, Director of Public Policy for AIBS. “AIBS greatly values OBFS's partnership and persistent engagement in these critical conversations.”

2023 OBFS/AIBS Congressional Delegation Team Members 

Conner Philson, University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA): Conner Philson is a field biologist and behavioral ecologist studying the evolution and fitness consequences of social behavior. He is currently a Ph.D. Candidate in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at UCLA and a Graduate Fellow at the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory. Conner’s work has been featured by the likes of National Geographic, American Scientist, and CNN. In addition to his research, Conner engages in science policy with work focusing on mitigating climate change and its impacts, the loss of biodiversity, and scientific infrastructure. Conner is a National Science Policy Network SciPol Scholar and an Associate Editor at the Journal of Science Policy and Governance. Conner serves on the Board of Directors for OBFS, chairing the Outreach and Communications Committee and focuses on strategic engagement with policymakers.

Rebecca Kauten, Iowa Lakeside Laboratory Regents Resource Center: Dr. Rebecca Kauten serves as Scientist in Residence for Iowa Lakeside Laboratory. She supervises field studies based at the lab including both social and physical science projects and serves as a technical resource for undergraduate and graduate researchers from across the region. Dr. Kauten also teaches courses in GIS, environmental management and human environment dynamics in Iowa, Montana and Maine, including studies in environmental and spatial science, sustainability, population dynamics and global analysis of food and water systems. Dr. Kauten holds advanced degrees in Geographical & Sustainability Science and Public Policy, and currently partners with multiple OBFS committees and members on research endeavors.

Jennifer Seavey, Shoals Marine Laboratory, University of New Hampshire and Cornell University: Dr. Jennifer Seavey is the John M. Kingsbury Director of the Shoals Marine Laboratory. She is also Faculty in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Cornell University and the School of Marine Science and Ocean Engineering (SMSOE) at the University of New Hampshire. Dr. Seavey is an applied ecologist focused on anthropogenic impacts on wildlife species and ecosystem function. Her research program explores climate change; spatial ecology; conservation biology; and the recovery of endangered species.

Shane Waddell, University of California-Davis (UC Davis): Shane Waddell is Associate Director of the UC Davis Natural Reserve System which manages six field stations as part of a 41-site statewide network. The UC Natural Reserve System (NRS) is the largest university-administered suite of protected areas in the world. Shane started at UC Santa Barbara’s Sedgwick Reserve in 1998 before settling in at UC Davis in 2000. He served as the Director of the Quail Ridge Reserve from 2011-2021. He studied mathematics and economics at UC Santa Barbara and taught math and English with the Peace Corps in Nepal. He serves as the chair of the UC NRS Information Management Committee. Shane serves on the Board of Directors for OBFS, chairing the Governance Committee.

About OBFS
The mission of the Organization of Biological Field Stations (OBFS) is to help member stations increase their effectiveness in supporting critical research, education, and outreach programs. We pursue this goal in a manner that maximizes diversity, inclusiveness, sustainability, and transparency. For more information visit www.obfs.org.

About AIBS
The American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS) is a non-profit 501(c)3 public charity organization that advances the biological sciences for the benefit of all science and society. We work with like- minded organizations, funding agencies, and political entities to promote the use of science to inform decision-making. For more information visit www.aibs.org.

Contact: Conner Philson, OBFS Outreach & Communications Chair, 571-490-5300, [email protected]

The University of Georgia Marine Institute on Sapelo Island is seeking to hire an Academic Professional to develop and provide oversight of the Institute’s residential instructional programs for University students. The candidate will also serve on the UGAMI leadership team as the Assistant Director for Academics, mentor students conducting independent research, and teach field courses in their area of specialization. The position is based primarily at the UGA Marine Institute on Sapelo Island, with travel to the UGA main campus in Athens and other destinations around the state (approximately one trip per month). Although it is possible to commute to Sapelo via ferry, residence on-site is required when programs are in session (including some weekends). Housing is available at the Marine Institute.

A Ph.D. in Marine Science or a related discipline is required for this position. A complete description and application materials can be found on the university’s faculty job portal https://www.ugajobsearch.com/postings/297055 . Applications received by February 23, 2023 are assured full consideration. The position has a target start date of May 2023. Inquiries should be

directed to Dr. Merryl Alber, Chair of the Search Committee ([email protected]), with the subject line: Academic Professional.

General Notes

Few universities anywhere offer the range and depth that the University of Texas at Austin does for biodiversity research, education, and public engagement. Here leading scientists make discoveries across the wide spectrum of life, from miniscule organisms to complex ecosystems, and researchers have the opportunity to be a part of groundbreaking scientific discoveries that transform our world and top-tier educational programs that develop scientific leaders. Our affiliated graduate programs are ranked among the top programs in the nation. Our commitment to applying scientific research for the betterment of society means engagement with the public, working with communities to advance understanding about natural resources, care for the land and local water supplies, and preservation of Texas biodiversity. For more information about the University of Texas at Austin's Field Stations, please go to https://biodiversity.utexas.edu/.

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Purpose

The University of Texas at Austin Field Station Network seeks a forward-looking Managing Director to develop and plan the operations and research activities across a growing network. While each field station provides significant research opportunities, the value of a field station network is fully realized when research and learning activities use the distributed sites synergistically to allow inference at larger scales and to address regional and global questions.  They will be responsible for driving the development, operations and research coordination of UT Austin field stations. The Managing Director will consult with faculty user groups and College administration to optimize use for research, education and outreach.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate the use of facilities and access for education and research. Work with the field station managers to ensure safe access and use. Participate with classes and outreach events. Coordinate user research requests.

• Support the development of the Field Station Network and Programs. Update the Mission and Strategic Plans. Develop policies and Standard Operating Procedures to implement the plans and improve user experiences. Participate in the expansion of the Field Station Network with College, Development and Donors. Organize and/or participate in planning groups with the College, Advisory groups, Biodiversity Center Leadership and external organizations such as the Organization of Biological Field Stations.

• Maintain and improve infrastructure of the field labs. Update and implement habitat management plans for stewardship and research. Coordinate activities of station managers for effective maintenance and safe operation of facilities. Oversee efficient maintenance through contractors and UT service facilities.

• Infrastructure development. Participate in planning and implementation of new infrastructure across the field stations. This includes master plan development, securing funding from internal and external sources, and coordinating the development projects.

• Provide technical support (geodatabase, maps, statistics, molecular lab) for users. Implement the data management plan, provide user access to geodatabases and data products. Provide user support such as molecular lab services, greenhouse and fish tank cultures, research plot maintenance.

• Establish and support long-term research studies across the Network, working with Graduate and Undergraduate Research Assistants and interns. Long-term studies include baseline plant, arthropod and soil microbial diversity and phenological surveys, networked ecosystem studies, and other studies initiated by field station research staff.

• Develop and support outreach efforts. Coordinate K12 and public events, organize volunteer and docent programs. Provide a strong social media presence.

• Manage budgets for maintenance and operations, for new infrastructure and for research and teaching programs. Enhance internal funding mechanisms for fee recovery and use of central funding resources. Write proposals to secure new funding for infrastructure and research. Apply for grants from foundations, local, state, and federal funding agencies. Prepare technical and financial reports.

• Manage personnel matters through recruitment, training, supervision and co-ordination of staff and student associates.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in biology, environmental science, or related fields.
• Three or more years of suitable experience in field of specialization.
• Three or more years of experience managing staff, budgets, and operations of a relevant organization or research program.

Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with infrastructure development for research and teaching facilities.
• Experience with institutional administration and donor relations.
• Excellent leadership skills for team development and strategic planning.
• Ability to implement operations and infrastructure activities within budget and on time.
• Excellent communications skills with faculty, administration and donors.
• Ability to secure funding through proposals and donor development.
• Stewardship of land to support diverse ecosystems for research and teaching.

Salary Range

$120,000 + depending on qualifications

Working Conditions

• May work around standard office conditions.
• Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation.
• Prolonged screen time.
• Use of manual dexterity.

Required Materials

• Resume/CV
• 3 work references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor
• Letter of interest

Important for applicants who are NOT current university employees or contingent workers: You will be prompted to submit your resume the first time you apply, then you will be provided an option to upload a new Resume for subsequent applications. Any additional Required Materials (letter of interest, references, etc.) will be uploaded in the Application Questions section; you will be able to multi-select additional files. Before submitting your online job application, ensure that ALL Required Materials have been uploaded.  Once your job application has been submitted, you cannot make changes.

Important for Current university employees and contingent workers: As a current university employee or contingent worker, you MUST apply within Workday by searching for Find UT Jobs. If you are a current University employee, log-in to Workday, navigate to your Worker Profile, click the Career link in the left hand navigation menu and then update the sections in your Professional Profile before you apply. This information will be pulled in to your application. The application is one page and you will be prompted to upload your resume. In addition, you must respond to the application questions presented to upload any additional Required Materials (letter of interest, references, etc.) that were noted above

Employment Eligibility:

Regular staff who have been employed in their current position for the last six continuous months are eligible for openings being recruited for through University-Wide or Open Recruiting, to include both promotional opportunities and lateral transfers. Staff who are promotion/transfer eligible may apply for positions without supervisor approval.

Retirement Plan Eligibility:

The retirement plan for this position is Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS), subject to the position being at least 20 hours per week and at least 135 days in length.

Background Checks:

A criminal history background check will be required for finalist(s) under consideration for this position.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.

Pay Transparency:

The University of Texas at Austin will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information.

Employment Eligibility Verification:

If hired, you will be required to complete the federal Employment Eligibility Verification I-9 form.  You will be required to present acceptable and original documents to prove your identity and authorization to work in the United States.  Documents need to be presented no later than the third day of employment.  Failure to do so will result in loss of employment at the university.

E-Verify:

The University of Texas at Austin use E-Verify to check the work authorization of all new hires effective May 2015. The university’s company ID number for purposes of E-Verify is 854197. For more information about E-Verify, please see the following:

• E-Verify Poster (English) [PDF]
• E-Verify Poster (Spanish) [PDF]
• Right To Work Poster (English) [PDF]
• Right To Work Poster (Spanish) [PDF]

Compliance:

Employees may be required to report violations of law under Title IX and the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act). If this position is identified a Campus Security Authority (Clery Act), you will be notified and provided resources for reporting. Responsible employees under Title IX are defined and outlined in HOP-3031.

The Clery Act requires all prospective employees be notified of the availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety report. You may access the most recent report here or obtain a copy at University Compliance Services, 1616 Guadalupe Street, UTA 2.206, Austin, Texas 78701.