Department Newsletter: 03-26-2024 (2024)

EES NEWSLETTER

WEEK OF MARCH 26, 2024

EES 5010 Geoscience Seminar - 3/29/2024 - 125 TROWBRIDGE HALL - 3:30 - 5PM

Presenter: Dr. Matthew Jones - Research Geologist - Geology, Energy & Minerals Science Center - United States Geological Survey - Reston, VA

Title: Anomalous volcanic carbon dioxide release and Cretaceous Ocean Anoxic Event 2

Abstract: A distinct, mid-Cretaceous black shale layer, discovered in large swaths of the global ocean during pioneering ocean drilling in the 1970s, represents the effects of severe ocean anoxia approximately 94 million years ago during an event called Oceanic Anoxic Event 2 (OAE2). This intriguing finding that past ocean basins were abruptly deprived of dissolved oxygen has spurred decades of research focused on both the triggers and paleoceanographic responses for this and other Cretaceous OAEs. This lecture will detail key research breakthroughs in the scientific understanding of Cretaceous OAEs over the nearly 50 years since their initial discovery, incorporating the most recent findings from scientific drilling in the Indian Ocean by the JOIDES Resolution research vessel. Geochemical data and sedimentological observations will be presented from cores drilled in the Mentelle Basin (offshore Australia) during International Ocean Discovery Program (IODP) Expedition 369. Observations and data from these cores provide a new understanding of the role and intensity of ocean acidification during OAE2 caused by abrupt CO2 emission from the eruptions of large igneous provinces (LIPs). The precise source of the CO2 remains unclear given uncertainties regarding the ages and eruptive histories of many submarine LIPs. Yet expeditions to recover cores from submarine LIPs, including the most recent Cretaceous IODP expedition which cored the expansive Agulhas Plateau offshore South Africa, provide rare opportunities to help determine which specific LIP so drastically influenced Earth’s climate and oceans in the mid-Cretaceous.

Marine drilling records of the Cretaceous OAEs provide some of the best geologic records of the effects of rapid carbon emission on the ocean-atmosphere system. These records highlight the apparent sensitivity of Cretaceous oceans to the volcanogenic emissions of volatiles like CO2 and SO2. However, the natural feedback mechanisms that eventually sequestered carbon to restabilize oceanographic conditions by the end of OAE2 may provide prescient models for modern, geologically-based mitigation strategies to address rising anthropogenic CO2 levels.

Reminders:

Early registration - fall 2024: 4/8 - 4/26/24
Last day to drop a course - undergrad/grad: 4/15/24
Last day to withdraw without collegiate approval - undergrad/grad: 4/15/24
Final exam reports due - grad - 4/16/24
Single thesis deposit (5pm CST) - 4/23/24
Close of classes: 5/3/24
Final exam week: 5/6 - 5/10/24
Commencement: 5/9 - 5/12/24
First day of summer classes - 5/13/24

Students, Faculty, & Alumni: Distinguished Alumni Award nominations!

Since 2019 your Earth and Environmental Science Alumni Board have announced a Distinguished Alumni Awardee. A “Distinguished Alumni” is alumni with a B.S., M.S., or Ph. D. who is recognized from making significant contributions to earth and environmental sciences throughout their careers, and personified service to and passion for the discipline and community, including public outreach. All nominations are kept on file so no nominee is ever “lost” in the review and selection process.The Distinguished Alumni is announced each year at Homecoming.

Please send your nominations to Lee Phillips, EESB Chair (plphilli@uncg.edu), Brian Hartman (brianshartman@gmail.com), Chair of the Alumni Outreach Committee, which oversees this award process, and Amy Sullivan, alumni and Past EESB Chair (cajes@mindspring.com) who coordinates nominee documentation. From that point the Alumni Outreach Committee will move forward with the review and documentation process. Let’s honor our awesome alumni!

1stGen@Iowa Student advisory board

1stGen@Iowa is now accepting applications for the 2024-20251stGen@Iowa Student Advisory Board. Please help us spread the word about this unique leadership opportunity for first-gen students and consider forwarding the information below to students you think might be interested in applying. A file that can be shared on social media is also attached.

Eligible Applicants: Any undergraduate, graduate, or professional student who plans to be enrolled at the University of Iowa during the 2024-2025 academic year andidentifies as first-generation is eligible to apply for the 1stGen@Iowa Student Advisory Board. Students do not have to "be registered" as first-gen in their student record to apply.
Who is a first-generation college student? At the University of Iowa, first-generation students are typically those students who do not have a parent(s) or legal guardian(s) who completed a four-year degree. However, a much more inclusive, comprehensive definition can be foundhere.
Term Length: Selected students will serve a full academic year, from approximately September - April. Students may request to serve additional terms.
Time Commitment: 1stGen@Iowa SAB members will attend 2 – 3, one-hour long meetings per semester; meetings may be held outside regular business hours and may meet in person or online.
- NEW for Fall 2024 - Student Advisory Board Retreat: All 1stGen@Iowa Student Advisory Board members, both new and returning, will be expected to attend a fall retreat on Sunday, September 8th 2024
Application Process: The following materials must be submitted by 11:59pm on Friday, March 29th 2024
- Completed application form
- Current resume (upload your resume with the application form)

To learn more about this opportunity, please go to the1stGen@Iowa Student Advisory Board Webpage.

graduate student defenses

4/3, Wednesday, 11AM (CST) - John J. Nguyen [Master’s Defense] - 339 Iowa Memorial Union [faculty advisor: Christopher Brochu]
- “A Reassessment of Asiatosuchus grangeri Mook, 1940 and its Implications on the Evolution of Paleogene Crocodiles”
  - The genus Asiatosuchus has historically been used as a wastebasket taxon to refer to any basal crocodile from the Paleogene. These species represent some of the closest extinct relatives to all modern crocodiles. Here we sought to reassess the species Asiatosuchus grangeri Mook, 1940, a crocodile from the middle Eocene of China. Fossil specimens of this species were reexamined to create a detailed description from which to conduct a morphology based phylogenetic analysis. A. grangeri was found to be somewhat more derived than previously thought, and less closely related to other species that have previously been referred to the genus. The results of this analysis may also point towards an Asian lineage of early crocodile which persisted from the Late Cretaceous up to the Eocene. Further studies are required among basal crocodiles to both resolve the remaining degree of uncertainty in their phylogenetic relationships and incorporate these findings with molecular data of extant species.
4/3, Wednesday, 1PM (CST) - Brandon Botha [Master’s Defense] - 349 Iowa Memorial Union [faculty advisor: Emily Finzel]
“Evaluating natural and induced bias in detrital zircon geochronology from Jurassic-Cretaceous strata in the Black Hills, South Dakota, USA”
- The influence of natural and induced bias are unsolved problems in detrital zircon U-Pb geochronology. This project evaluates natural bias that may result from hydraulic sorting in a depositional environment and induced bias that may result from sample disaggregation during mineral separation. In Mesozoic strata from the Black Hills, South Dakota, we conducted three experiments for natural bias. In the Hulett Member of the Jurassic Sundance Formation, which represents deposition in a shallow marine environment, we sampled beds with different sedimentary structures representing varying hydrodynamic conditions. In the Fuson Member of the Cretaceous Lakota Formation, multiple samples from different positions within two ancient barforms were sampled. In the Cretaceous Fall River Formation, we sampled the base and top of a fluvial channel and its associated crevasse splay deposits. We test for induced bias by running in parallel two aliquots of 300 grams from each sample. The first aliquot was mechanically disaggregated using a jaw crusher and disk mill and the second aliquot was processed using a SelFrag Electopulse Disaggregator, which disaggregates along grain boundaries using high voltage electrical fragmentation. We also collected grain size data for each aliquot to test for differences in the resulting mineral separates as well as age-grain-size correlations. For each test, we use visual and statistical approaches to evaluate for biasing. Visual comparisons evaluate the presence or absence and relative abundance of age populations. Quantitative comparisons rely upon five statistical metrics: similarity, likeness, and cross-correlation of kernel density estimates (KDEs), and Kolmogorov-Smirnov (K-S) and Kuiper tests of cumulative distribution functions (CDFs) to compare data. Our results suggest that for our experiments, natural and induced biasing are not present and that, in terms of provenance, the samples from each unit would be interpreted as having the same sources. We also find, similar to previous studies, that the number of grains (n) dated greatly influences how statistical metrics are measured.
4/16, Tuesday, 9:30AM (CST) - Nathanael Kilburg [Master’s Defense] - 345 Iowa Memorial Union [faculty advisor: David Peate]
- “Age and Petrogenesis of the Matlock ‘Keratophyre’ in Northwest Iowa”
  - Mineral exploration cores drilled in 1963 into a magnetic anomaly by the New Jersey Zinc Company in northwest Iowa found the ~2.7 Ga Otter Creek layered mafic intrusion stratigraphically overlain by the ~1.78 Ga Matlock “Keratophyre” (MK). The MK was logged in two of the drilled Matlock cores: C-5 and C-6. The MK was described as a dark gray porphyritic rhyolite unit in the subsurface Precambrian basem*nt of Iowa that grades downward from a crystal-poor tuff (core C-6 and top of core C-5) into a volcanic flow breccia that contains mafic clasts from the underlying 2.7 Ga Otter Creek Layered Igneous Complex (core C-5). This project involved gathering new petrographic and compositional data to investigate the nature and petrogenesis of this highly altered, mixed rhyolite-basalt unit. A PXRF was used to survey compositional variations in the cores to aid sample selection for whole rock geochemistry and U-Pb zircon geochronology (high-Zr core sections). Zircon was recovered from two Matlock C-5 core sections, but the sample of crystal-poor tuff (C-6 core section) was barren. Zircons analyzed by LA-ICP-MS at the Arizona LaserChron Center yielded concordia ages of 1803 ± 4 Ma (sample C5 488-9) and 1810 ± 9 Ma (sample C5 1067), suggesting the MK is older than the previous estimate (~1.78 Ga). The ICP-MS data on 24 whole rock samples shows that the MK is not a keratophyre unit but instead a high potassium rhyolite that has been highly altered and variably leached in alkali elements, and that there are three distinct rhyolite units within the MK unit based on incompatible and immobile element ratios, such as Zr/Nb and La/Sm. The PXRF and whole rock geochemical data highlight an unusual amount of mafic clasts. These whole rock geochemical data and new in-situ zircon U-Pb ages provide additional context about the southern margin of the Superior Craton.
6/6, Thursday, Time TBD (CST) - Samson Bruxvoort [Master’s Defense] - Location TBD [faculty advisor: Bill McClelland]
- Title TBD

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

UNDERGRAD / ENTRY-LEVEL

The Iowa Geological Survey is looking for a full-time summer assistant at its facility on the UI Research Park in Coralville. The assistant will primarily assist in the preparation of well chip samples and enter geologic information into various databases. Some field work, such as collecting groundwater level measurements, may also be possible as projects develop.

A background in geology or earth sciences is desirable, but not required. Must be detail oriented. Must have the ability to move research materials weighing up to 50 pounds. A valid driver’s license and ability to meet and maintain University Driving Policy standards is required. Applicants MUST be enrolled as a student at a college or university in the spring 2024.

Work hours are typically between 8:00 – 5:00 p.m., M-F, but are flexible after training is complete. Pay is $15.00/hr. The position starts on May 13 and will last through August 23.

To apply for this position, please send a resume to Rick Langel at (richard-langel@uiowa.edu). If you have any questions, please contact Rick at richard-langel@uiowa.edu or 335-4102.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is seeking surveyors for prairie butterfly monitoring in western Minnesota. This work is a vital part of our mission to protect and save our native plant communities and the pollinators that depend on them.

These positions are available as contracts (it’s not as hard as it might sound). To view the Request For Proposals (RFP) and submit an application package to bid on the contract, visit the Minnesota Supplier Portalhere. Two projects are listed under Bidding Opportunities:

DNR EWR PT QC BUTTERFLY MONITORING IN NW MN – 2000015504
DNR EWR PT QC BUTTERFLY MONITORING IN SW MN – 2000015465

Click on the project, then click on ‘View Bid Package’. There you will find the RFP document with project details. New users of this system will first need to register for an account before applying. Information about how to pose questions about the proposal and the process can be found on p. 4 of each RFP. You may bid on both opportunities. Applications are due by 2:00 PM CST on Thursday, 28 March 2024 for the SW proposal and 2:00 PM CST on Friday, 29 March 2024 for the NW proposal.

Field Trip and Short Course Program Coordinator - The Geological Society Of America - Boulder, Colorado (Hybrid)

$25.00 - $27.40 Per Hour - Full Time

The Program Coordinator is responsible for GSA’s field and professional development programs, including administering field trips, field awards, short courses, and GSA’s Continuing Education Units (CPEs). This is an exciting, interactive, and highly visible role that demands exceptional customer service skills, a love of field activities and/or fieldwork, and a high level of professionalism.

This position will work closely with volunteers and help them to propose, review, implement, and complete field trips or short courses within an allotted time frame. The trips or courses may be associated with specific GSA-related meetings or may occur independently of these meetings, including virtually.

This role will report to the Director of Strategic Outreach and Engagement, and will liaise with GSA committees, sections, members, non-members, staff, internal and external funders, and representatives from government agencies, private industries, and academic institutions.

Key Essential functions include but not limited to:

Implementing and overseeing Short Course programs and field trips for the GSA Connects and Section meetings if requested, to include virtual field trips and courses.
Working closely with GSA Director of Strategic Outreach and Engagement and the Director of Meetings and Events, members, and committees to guide the offerings and selection of field trips and short courses.
Assisting the Field Trip Chair and the Committee on Professional Development in their review of proposals for field trips, short courses, and GSA’s J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship Program. Send out acceptance notices to field trip and short course leaders and to the winners of the scholarship.
Coordinating logistics for trips and courses, including travel, hotel, meals, room set-ups, etc., as needed.
Increasing engagement with potential leaders and participants.
Working with the Marketing Department to create marketing materials and campaigns to appropriately advertise trips, courses, the J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship Award, and other trip- and course-related programs.
Preparing budgets for each trip and program and working with trip and course leaders on those budgets to ensure that the maximum number of potential trips and courses are offered and run each year. Handles all trips and courses invoicing and reimbursem*nts after each meeting.
Surveying leaders and attendees at the conclusion of programs, and evaluating, analyzing, and reporting on the programs based on that data.
Analyzing data from past offerings, gathering data from new offerings, and reporting that data to aid in future decision making.
Assessing and working to increase the impact and visibility of the field and short course programs within the scope of the GSA strategic plan.
Providing excellent customer service to all leaders, participants, members, non-members, staff, and other interested parties by clearly communicating information and answering all inquiries regarding general and specific program information.
Traveling to various meetings and other locales to administer programs as necessary.
Ensure Continuing Education Units (CEU) are offered, marketed, assessed and awarded to all course and trip attendees.

An ideal candidate will have an Associate’s Degree and be able to travel locally and nationally for GSA program events throughout the year.

The opportunity is a full-time, non-exempt position with a home base in the Boulder HQ or Washington D.C. office and available for a Hybrid work environment at times. The hourly range is $25.00 -$27.40 per hour for a 40-hour work week. GSA provides excellent benefits, including medical, dental, PTO, which include paid holidays, life insurance, 403(b) retirement, and opportunities for professional development. Additional recognized time off includes Juneteenth and Indigenous Peoples Day in 2024.

If you are interested in this position, please review the full job description, and submit a cover letter, resume, and three professional references.

Interested candidates are strongly encouraged to apply immediately. Submissions will be reviewed immediately and ongoing until the position is filled. This posting may close at any time.

PROFESSIONAL/POST-GRAD

Researcher 4: Assistant Researcher Scientist - Natural Resources Research Institute, Minerals and metallurgy - Duluth, Minnesota

$46,000 - $110,000 Per Year - Full Time

Job Opening is 360188

The Natural Resources Research Institute was established by the Minnesota legislature in 1983 as an applied science and engineering research organization to inform state citizens and decision-makers while leveraging the power of the University of Minnesota. NRRI is guided by the forward-looking charter provided by the Legislature to foster the economic development of Minnesota’s natural resources in an environmentally sound manner to promote private sector employment.

NRRI’s mission is to deliver integrated research solutions that value our resources, environment, and economy for a sustainable and resilient future. We are a mission-driven, project-focused team working to create opportunities for natural resource stewardship. With industrial-scale facilities in Duluth and Coleraine, MN, NRRI works across five strategic research platforms. These platforms address Minnesota’s soil, forest, water, and mineral resources:

Applied Ecology and Resource Management
Minerals and Metallurgy
Materials and Bioeconomy
Data Collection and Delivery
Commercialization Services

***Please note this position is NOT eligible for sponsorship***

This intermediate-level research position is responsible for the execution and management of comprehensive research projects related to the origin and occurrence of natural resources. The successful candidate must have significant training and experience in one or more of the following areas: Mineralogy, Petrology, Geochemistry and Structural Geology and a demonstrated record of successful execution and completion of research projects in areas of specialized interest. The successful candidate will work on a wide variety of projects, including but not limited to 1) examination of geological characteristics of natural resources; 2) fieldwork, sample-collection, laboratory sample preparation; 3) petrographic studies of collected samples; 4) contributing to analytical reports and participating in group efforts to prepare manuscripts for publication. The researcher will be expected to contribute to ongoing collaborative research programs across the Institute. Predominantly day trips but occasional overnight travel to field locations and to external labs will be needed for up to 15% of the time.

Travel will be needed for fieldwork and sample collection. Lab work will include sample studies in hand and under microscope. Visiting external labs for sample analysis and data collection will be needed from time to time. Lifting heavy objects up to 40 lbs. might be occasionally required.

The researcher will work under the supervision of an NRRI research manager to engage in research and associated activities such as project development, management of resources, and team leadership to achieve the strategic objectives of the Institute. The position leverages Institute policies and procedures and applies project management skills in concert with their technical expertise to manage day-to-day research activities.

Project Development 50 %

As a key contributor in the research organization, this position is responsible for the execution of existing, integrated, multi-disciplinary research projects in Geology involving 1) ferrous and non-ferrous mineral resources, 2) initiatives in the creation and development of a renewable energy infrastructure; 3) pathways to minimize the industrial emission of carbon, consistent with state and federal government policies and the strategic research objectives of the Institute. The work will include partnership with institutes such as universities, national labs, industry, and state and federal government. The researcher may travel to field locations, collaborate with workers, collect field and drill-core samples, and engage in a group effort on sample collection, sample inspection, sample preparation, and generation of analytical data. Strong project management skills and excellent oral and written communication skills will be crucial in reaching these objectives.

Research Funding 20%

The research scientist is expected to help generate research funding from internal and external sources contributing to the preparation of professional, competitive grant proposals. It is expected that the research scientist will coordinate and collaborate across the Institute as well as the University of Minnesota System to ensure that project budget, schedule, and scope fulfill granting agency requirements.

Publications 20%

The researcher will participate with the supervisor and co-workers in research teams in the preparation and writing of project reports and manuscripts. The research scientist is expected to contribute to the preparation of peer-reviewed articles, technical reports, client reports, professional presentations, and outreach materials as appropriate.

Operational Assistance 10%

The researcher is expected to contribute expertise to mineral processing, and to industry service contracts across the Institute. The researcher will acquire, analyze, interpret, and report mineralogical data to support research and external sales projects. The researcher will review established operational policies and procedures related to research activities of the Institute. The researcher will practice and uphold Institute core values, including a robust safety and respectful work environment.

Required Qualifications:

BS/BA plus 4 years applicable experience or MS plus 2 years applicable experience in geological sciences or in related areas of study from an accredited college or university in one or more of the following areas: mineralogy, igneous and metamorphic petrology, structural geology, and high temperature geochemistry
Demonstrated knowledge of geology and mineral resources
Experience in geological fieldwork.
Experience in drill core collection and inspection.
Proficiency with petrological microscopes and the development of comprehensive lithogeochemical models of rock systems.
Proficiency in written and oral English.
Experience in working with collaborative teams.
Lifting heavy objects up to 40 lbs. might be occasionally required.
Working in rugged terrains and visiting mining and industrial locations are expected occasionally
Must possess a valid US Drivers License

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in geospatial analysis using Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
Proficiency in Lith geochemical software such as ioGAS and IGPET.
Knowledge and experience in the geology of the Great Lakes Region.
Experience using mineralogical techniques and analytical methods such as MLA/QEMSCAN, XRD, Electron Microprobe (EPMA) and X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry (XRF).
A record of publishing peer-reviewed articles and geological maps.
Experience in project management, execution, and reporting.

Geosciences Department Technician - Union College, Geosciences Department - Schenectady, New York

$37,000 - $57,000 Per Year - Full Time

The Union College Geosciences Department seeks a permanent full-time (12 month) Department Technician. Our technician plays a crucial role supporting the students and faculty in the department by assisting with field trips, indoor/outdoor laboratory exercises, instrument operation and maintenance, and classroom material preparation. We seek to hire a dynamic colleague with laboratory experience in the geosciences (BSc required, MSc or PhD preferred). Applicants with broadly defined laboratory experience are encouraged, which could include lab-based classes, student research, or previous technical employment. Duties vary depending on department need, but will include aiding students and faculty during classroom and outdoor lab experiences, maintaining and operating geochemical equipment, and engaging in a wide variety of sample preparations. Major department instrumentation includes IR-MS, LA-ICPMS, IC, SEM and XRD. Training will be provided for all required tasks, and no specific experience is required. The rate for this position is between $18.00 - $27.50 per hour (or approx. $37,000 to $57,000 per year), depending on experience. The region has a very reasonable cost of living and is home to cultural and culinary possibilities in the state capital, Albany, and nearby Berkshires, along with proximity to local mountain ranges (the Adirondacks, Catskills, Greens) for hiking, skiing, climbing, etc. Union College employment includes an attractive benefits program with health, generous retirement package, free gym, paid breaks, paid holidays, tuition remission program, and other benefits.

Please see the full job advertisem*nt and application portal at: https://jobs.union.edu/en-us/job/493360/geosciences-technician

We will review applications starting April 15th

wyoming state geological survey is hiring for the following positions

Contract Geologist

The Wyoming State Geological Survey is hiring onecontract geologist position to work with staff geologists to characterize the critical mineral resource potential of the Medicine Bow Mountains in southeastern Wyoming. Interested applicants must submit a cover letter, resume, and include a completedjob questionnaire.

Geology Manager

The Wyoming State Geological Survey is hiring one geology manager position to lead a team of 4–6 staff geologists, as well as conduct independent field and laboratory geologic research in support of agency goals. For more information on essential functions, qualifications, and how to apply, clickhere.

The State of Wyoming is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Clickhere to view federal guidelines for Equal Employment Opportunitypolicies.

INTERNSHIP, RESEARCH, SCHOLARSHIP, FELLOWSHIP, & GRANT OPPORTUNITIES

INTERNSHIP

Geology Member - American Conservation Experience - Las Cruces, New Mexico

$45,600 Per Year - Internship

Summary: American Conservation Experience, a nonprofit Conservation Corps, in partnership with Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Las Cruces District Office, is seeking two Geology Members to contribute to a variety of geological projects alongside BLM Las Cruces District Office Staff. The members will work on geological investigations pertaining to various mining and geothermal exploration and operations and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

For more information about ACE, please visit: www.usaconservation.org.

Start Date: July/August 2024 *pending federal background check*

Estimated End Date: 50 weeks after the start date.*a 50 week minimum commitment is required *

Location Details/Description: Las Cruces, NM

Position Overview: The BLM Las Cruces District Office is providing an opportunity for two members to gain hands-on experience in the fields of geology and natural resource management to help uphold state and federal environmental regulations in New Mexico. Under the guidance of BLM Staff, the members will contribute to the collection, analysis, and reporting of geologic data on BLM lands. The members will also assist in the development of NEPA documents, ArcGIS data and products, record keeping systems, and data/information entry into the various automated minerals and reporting systems. Those participating in this program will have the opportunity to learn about BLM land-management challenges and responsibilities, gain an understanding of the ins-and-outs of environmental regulation and compliance, and get boots on the ground experience with geologic methods. This individual placement is meant to facilitate professional development and promotes exposure to land management agencies and networking with professionals. This could include gaining experience in different conservation fields and shadowing different work groups.

Schedule: Mon-Fri, between the hours of 8:00am - 5:00pm MST.

Qualifications

Required:

Members must be a U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident, as required by U.S. government contracts
Willing and able to represent ACE and the partner organization in a professional, positive, and enthusiastic manner.
Ability to be both self-directed/work alone, and be a positive, contributing member of a group.
A valid driver's license and an insurable driving record (documentation to be provided upon request).
Willing to undergo and must pass the required two-part criminal history check.
Ability to perform the essential duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.
ACE Members will need to complete bi-weekly timesheets, beginning of term feedback forms, end of term evaluations and for longer terms, a mid-term evaluation.
To learn more about eligibility requirements, please visit our website https://www.usaconservation.org/epic/#eligibility-requirements.

Preferred:

Knowledge of geologic processes, data collection and analysis, and duties related to this position.
Ability and willingness to participate in both fieldwork and office work.
Deep interest in environmental compliance and government procedures.

To Apply: Please submit your resume, a cover letter demonstrating your interest and experience, and contact information for three professional/academic references to the online application page for this position here: https://usaconservation.applicantpool.com/jobs/1079793 Early consideration will be given as resumes are received. This position may close at any time. If you have any questions regarding this position please feel free to contact Recruitment and Member Support Coordinator, Sheana Ward, at sward@usaconservation.org

Green Corps Organizer Program - The Field School for Environmental Organizing

Green Corps is looking for college graduates who are ready to take on the biggest environmental challenges of our day.

Learn more and apply on our website!

The planet needs all the help it can get. To win now and build a strong foundation for lasting progress, we need people who know how to organize: to run organizations and campaigns that will inspire the support and action we need to save our environment. Our program starts with intensive classroom training. You learn about issues and campaigns, organizing theory and principles, and skills from recruiting volunteers to staging a media event. Then, you move to a more hands-on experience. You make a difference on important campaigns to transition our country to clean energy, protect wildlife, and more. For example, Lauren Karpinski, an organizer from the Green Corps Class of 2019, brought together a coalition of 40 groups that helped win a landmark solar energy bill in Arkansas.

We’re accepting the top 20 candidates for our 2024-2025 program. Graduates will join our more than 400 alumni who are leading environmental campaigns and organizations across the country. If you’re passionate about the environment and ready to learn and practice the craft of organizing after graduation,apply today!

Not a graduating senior?Add your name to our listto receive updates about Green Corps including summer internships and jobs in the environmental and broader social change field!

New Mexico State University - grad student opportunities

As a result of the funding of a recent Department of Energy (DOE) grant, is looking for two motivated MS students who are interested using U-series isotopes to address the ages of crystals and melts in young volcanic eruptions. The students will have the option to participate in a program in which to prepare for potential careers at DOE funded national labs (e.g., Los Alamos and Savannah River National Labs). In addition, a colleague (Dr. Brian Hampton) is looking for students interested in undertaking research associated with tectonics and sedimentary basins. We currently have TA funding for up to three positions for the fall 2024 graduate class. The MS program at New Mexico State University is focused on undertaking a range of scientific investigations using cutting-edge technologies and is located in the Rio Grande rift of southern New Mexico.

For more information, please email graduate advisor, Dr. Frank C. Ramos atframos@nmsu.edu or apply athttps://gradschool.nmsu.edu/future-students/.

RESEARCH

Postdoctoral Research Scholar in Planetary Field Geology

Employer: Arizona State University, School of Earth and Space Exploration

Location: Tempe, Arizona (US)

Closing date: Apr 19, 2024

The Dreamscape Discovery Initiative (DDI) and the School of Earth and Space Exploration (SESE) at Arizona State University invite applications for a Postdoctoral Research Scholar in Planetary Field Geology as enabled by virtual reality.

Applications are invited for one postdoctoral position to work in collaboration with DDI Director Kip Hodges.

The Dreamscape Discovery Initiative (DDI) at Arizona State University is looking for a postdoctoral researcher to join an active and growing research cohort with a focus on developing extremely high-resolution digital replications of natural planetary landscapes, enhancing them with handheld or embedded geochemical sensor data, rendering the enhanced models as virtual environments such that planetary scientists can conduct field geologic research within them, and exploring the efficacy of this approach to observational field geology as compared to established field science methodology. While collaborating on established DDI projects involving lunar, Martian, and terrestrial analog datasets, the appointee will have ample opportunity to develop and lead original immersive reality research of their own design.

Essential Duties

Developing extremely high-resolution digital replications of natural planetary landscapes, enhancing them with handheld or embedded geochemical sensor data, rendering the enhanced models as virtual environments such that planetary scientists can conduct field geologic research within them, and exploring the efficacy of this approach to observational field geology as compared to established field science methodology.

Although DDI is a pan-university initiative, this appointment will be based in the School of Earth and Space Exploration (SESE), an interdisciplinary academic unit bringing together all of Earth and space science including astrophysics, cosmology, planetary science, and geology. Read more about SESE athttps://sese.asu.edu.

The initial appointment is for one year and is eligible for subsequent annual renewal for up to one additional year contingent upon satisfactory performance, the needs of the university, and availability of funding resources. The estimated start date is September 1, 2024. This position comes with a competitive salary and benefits.

About Arizona State University

ASU is a large, comprehensive, research university and for nearly two decades, has transformed into the “New American University,” one dedicated to the simultaneous pursuit of excellence, broad access to quality education, and meaningful societal impact. By our Charter and Design Aspirations, we center inclusion and success as values that drive the enterprise; adopt inter- and transdisciplinary approaches to teaching and learning as ways to address society’s greatest challenges; and develop innovative partnerships to produce master learners across the lifespan. To learn more about ASU, visithttp://www.asu.edu.

Qualifications

Minimum qualifications include:

A Ph.D. or DSc in geological sciences, natural sciences, or earth and space sciences, or closely related field by the start date. Candidates must be within five years from receipt of the doctoral degree.
A background in either observational field geoscience or field planetary science.
Commitment to working with faculty, staff, students, and communities, to advance the principles of the ASU Charter.

Desired qualifications include:

Familiarity with the use of photogrammetric methods to develop 3D models of outcrops or landscapes on Earth or other planetary surfaces.
A growing publication record in major international journals.
Strong computational skills and a willingness to expand those skills into the realm of 3D visualization.
Experience in research management skills, including the ability to prioritize tasks, multi-task, allocate resources, and meet deadlines.
Experience in problem-solving and decision-making, evidence of organizational skills and flexibility, and proactively anticipating requirements and potential challenges.
Willingness to collaborate on the development of new projects and assist in writing proposals to garner external support for those projects.

To apply, please submit to http://apply.interfolio.com/143048 to include the following:

A cover letter
Contact information (name, address, email address) for three references familiar with the candidate’s work.
A curriculum vitae with a publication list.
A 1-2-page statement of why this particular opportunity is of interest.
A statement of past research accomplishments and future research goals (Three pages or less).

The deadline for the initial review of complete applications will be April 18, 2024. Applications will continue to be accepted on a rolling basis for a reserve pool. Applications in the reserve pool may then be reviewed in the order in which they were received until the position is closed.

Postdoctoral benefits can be found at:https://cfo.asu.edu/new-employee-orientationhttps://graduate.asu.edu/postdocs/welcome-postdocs

A background check is required for employment. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States.

USGS Arctic Rivers Project Research Internship

Employer: Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE) Oak Ridge Participation Programs (OPP) Outreach Team

Location: can report remotely; preference will be given to candidates in CO & AK

Salary: Stipend rates vary based opportunity, location, education, and experience

Closing date: Apr 19, 2024

Two research opportunities are available with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) regional Southwest Climate Adaptation Science Center. The selected research assistant can report remotely; however, preference will be given to participants located in Colorado and Alaska.

The USGS mission is to monitor, analyze, and predict current and evolving dynamics of complex human and natural Earth-system interactions and to deliver actionable intelligence at scales and timeframes relevant to decision makers. As the Nation's largest water, earth, and biological science and civilian mapping agency, USGS collects, monitors, analyzes, and provides science about natural resource conditions, issues, and problems. Regional Climate Adaptation Science Centers support and produce science to inform on-the-ground climate adaptation planning by natural and cultural resource managers.

Research Project:The Arctic Rivers Project is an NSF-Navigating the New Arctic funded project that is a collaboration between scientists at the University of Colorado Boulder, USGS, National Center for Atmospheric Research, Yukon River Inter-Tribal Watershed Council, and the Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals. This interdisciplinary project seeks to develop useful and useable climate information to assist Indigenous communities throughout Alaska in adapting to the impacts of climate change particularly as it relates to fish, rivers, and extreme events. (See:https://geonarrative.usgs.gov/arcticriversproject/ for more information). To that end researchers will work directly with community members from at least three Alaska Native Villages to weave their knowledge of and experiences with climate change impacts together with climate projections from a newly developed regional climate model for the state of Alaska.

Under the guidance of a mentor, specific activities include, but are not limited to:

Assisting in workshops to be held in Alaska Native Communities.
Developing interview questions and assisting with interviews of Alaska Native Knowledge Holders, Elders, and Decision makers.
Analyzing interview transcripts.
Assisting in the development of products to share the results of interviews such as manuscripts, storymaps, and community reports.
Attending project meetings (Depending on the participant’s location these may be held outside of regular participation hours).
Communicating regularly with community project partners.

Learning Objectives: The participant will receive training, coaching, and mentoring from the team leads and project managers to effectively accomplish appointment goals. Selected participants will receive an hourly rate; rates are based on the candidate’s academic and professional background. Participants will receive a travel/research allowance to cover travel-related expenses to scientific and professional development activities.

Mentor: The mentor for this opportunity is Nicole Herman-Mercer (nhmercer@usgs.gov). If you have questions about the nature of the research please contact the mentor.

Anticipated Appointment Start Date: May 2024. Start date is flexible and will depend on a variety of factors.

Appointment Length: The appointment will initially be for one year, but may be renewed upon recommendation of CDC and is contingent on the availability of funds.

Level of Participation: The appointment is part time.

Participant Stipend: Stipend rates may vary based on numerous factors, including opportunity, location, education, and experience. If you are interviewed, you can inquire about the exact stipend rate at that time and if selected, your appointment offer will include the monthly stipend rate.

Citizenship Requirements: This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens only.

ORISE Information: This program, administered by ORAU through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to manage the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), was established through an interagency agreement between DOE and USGS. Participants do not become employees of USGS, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE.

Questions: If you have questions about the application process please emailUSGS@orau.org and include the reference code for this opportunity.

Qualifications

The qualified candidate should be currently pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree in the one of the relevant fields. The participants should be enrolled in upper-level course work as an undergraduate or be a first-year Master's student majoring in one of the relevant fields listed in the eligibility requirements section.

Preferred skills:

Ability to collaborate with a diverse and remote project team.
Strong written and oral communication skills.
Experience collaborating across cultures.
Attention to detail and good organizational skills.
Experience conducting interviews and analyzing transcripts with qualitative analysis software (e.g., NVIVO) a plus.

Eligibility Requirements

Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
Degree: Currently pursuing a Bachelor's Degree or Master's Degree.
Discipline(s):
- Communications and Graphics Design
- Environmental and Marine Sciences
- Life Health and Medical Sciences
- Other Non-Science & Engineering
- Social and Behavioral Sciences
Age: Must be 18 years of age

Two Graduate Assistantships (Ph.D.)

Employer: Department of Earth and Spatial Sciences, University of Idaho

Location: Moscow, Idaho

Salary: Up to ~$30,000/year with health insurance and full tuition

Closing date: Apr 18, 2024

The Department of Earth and Spatial Sciences at the University of Idaho (Moscow, ID) is recruiting two Geography Ph.D. students to conduct research related to human adaptation to, and perceptions of, climate change. The successful applicants will work with a team of scientists from Idaho, Nevada, and South Carolina as part of a National Science Foundation funded 4-year project focuses on Local and Place Based Adaptation to Climate Change in Undeserved Rural Communities. One PhD student will focus on remote sensing and spatial analysis of environments under change and the second will focus on climate science, modeling, and visualizations. Please submit inquiries directly to Dr. Alistair Smith (alistair at uidaho dot edu) and Dr. Erich Seamon (erichs at uidaho dot edu). Positions include a competitive research assistantship (~$30,000/year), health insurance, and full tuition covered, with an anticipated start of August 12, 2024.

UPCOMING EVENTS

CAMPUS EVENTS

TheHubbell Environmental Law Initiative (HELI) at the University of Iowa College of Law is hosting a series of events this spring semester that will explore the implementation of the Inflation Reduction Act in Iowa, climate resilience and justice, international environmental enforcement, and land conservation in Iowa and the Midwest region after Sackett v. EPA.

Registration is available for each event at the links below. Each event has a virtual and in person attendance option. All events are free and open to the public.

With questions, contact the HELI team atlawmail-HELI@uiowa.edu.

April 5 (all day event):"Wetlands Preservation after Sackett v. EPA: Land Conservation and What it Means for Iowa" Panel Series

In April 2024, HELI will convene partners from the national, regional, and local scales for a series of panels discussing land conservation in Iowa and the Midwest region after Sackett v. EPA. The exact date is TBA, but will be announced soon.
Food and beverages will be provided for those who register in advance. Registration for this event is openhere

Campus and Local Community Spaces as Collaborative Lab for Environmental Research—Inspiration from Leaders at Other Campuses

April 5, 1:30 - 3:00PM - Iowa City Public Library (123 S Linn St.)

Around the country, visionary faculty members and administrators are finding inspiring ways to engage students, artists, researchers, staff, and community partners in learning about and responding to climate change and its environmental effects through the very landscapes in which they live and work. As part of this year’s Obermann series, “Envisioning Interdisciplinary, Experiential Environmental Research,” we are thrilled to welcome two leaders whose brilliant cross-sectoral, cross-disciplinary collaborations offer inspiring ways to conduct research, teach classes, and connect campuses with their communities. Their work promises that through expansive, intentional collaborations here at the University of Iowa, we can leap over the usual obstacles to working together and design projects that will not only change hearts and minds, but directly address the impacts of climate change and environmental challenges.

Speakers:

Kathleen Socolofsky, Assistant Vice Chancellor and Director, UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden. AVC Socolofsky is the co-developer of three initiatives that are being used as models for universities and public gardens across the United States and beyond: (1) the UCD GATEways (Gardens, Arts, and The Environment) Project; (2) the UC Davis Living Landscape Adaptation Plan for climate change; and (3) the Learning by Leading™ Program Model for student experiential leadership for the environment.

Lecture: "The UCD Arboretum and Public Garden as Interdisciplinary, Learning Laboratory—Connecting the Campus and Community Through Experiential Teaching, Learning, and Research on and in the Environment"

Bethany Wiggin, Founding Director of the Penn Program in Environmental Humanities and the My Climate Story and Ecotopian Toolkit projects and Professor of German at the University of Pennsylvania with affiliations in Comparative Literature, English, and International Studies. Wiggin’s collaborations include research across the arts and sciences and public engagement in the environmental humanities: including Timescales and An Ecotopian Toolkit. After the 2016 election, she played a pivotal role in launching #Datarefuge to address concerns about federal climate and environmental data. With Johns Hopkins engineering professor Peter DeCarlo, she researches and teaches summer research seminars to educate the public about the pollution of the Schuylkill River.

Lecture: "Humanists at Work in the World: Campus-Community Partnerships for Environmental Justice"

This event is free and open to all.

Hosted by the UI Obermann Center for Advanced Studies, with generous support from the Office of the Vice President for Research and Humanities for the Public Good.

Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all University of Iowa–sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in this program, please contact Erin Hackathorn in advance at 319-335-4034 or erin-hackathorn@uiowa.edu

OFF-CAMPUS EVENTS

filmscene presents “The Martian” - March 28, 2024 6:30PM

A Science on Screen® Presentation: including a pre-show presentation: “Life on Mars? Soil, Plants, and Climate on the Red Planet” presented by Drs. Valerie Payré (EES) and Matthew Dannenberg (GSS)

An initiative of the Coolidge Corner Theatre, with major support from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation

Tickets are $10, availablehere

WORKSHOPS

Geological Society of America 2024 Joint North-Central and South-Central Section Meeting

21 - 23 April 2024 - Springfield, Missouri - Oasis Hotel & Convention Center

Registrationhere

58th Annual Meeting of the North-Central Section

Meet in the Mid-Continent!

We are excited to have the opportunity to host the joint meeting of the North-Central and South-Central Sections. We have built a diverse technical program that spans the geology of the Ozarks (Paleozoic units and abundant karst) to Precambrian basem*nt outcrops both east and west of the Ozarks, to the structural features of the southern margin. This geology includes world-class Lead-Zinc deposits, paleontological finds, and fascinating environmental challenges. Beyond the rocks, we also invite you to join us as we explore recent changes in our profession and their implications for educational preparation of the next generation of earth scientists. The program has many opportunities for students—our greatest resource for the future—to develop and build their career paths. We look forward to seeing you at the joint meeting!

Location

The meeting will be held in Springfield, Missouri, USA. Situated near the heart of the Ozarks physiographic province, Springfield is a mid-size town which provides a great launching point to examine mid-continent geology. The Oasis Hotel and Convention Center offer quality meeting rooms along with many relaxing places to sit and connect with your colleagues to continue discussions of geo-topics. Conveniently located near I-44 and US-65, the hotel has in-house and nearby restaurants, an indoor pool with relaxing tropical poolside lounge, and is only steps away from parts of historic US Route 66. Take a field trip to see interesting geology from Paleozoic sediments to the basem*nt; see interactions between geology, society and historical development, or just enjoy one of Missouri’s 7000+ caves! We invite you to join us at Springfield 2024!

Registration

Early registration deadline: 18 Mar. 2024

Cancelation deadline: 25 Mar. 2024

Missouri S&T is excited to host the fourth annual workshop on “Resilient Supply of Critical Minerals.” The workshop series brings together interdisciplinary stakeholders from academia, industry, and government. Our goal is to provide a long-term collaborative platform to help implement action and disseminate research on critical minerals.

Registration opens April 2024

2024 Topical Sessions including:

The Critical Mineral Potential of the US: Evaluation of existing and exploration for new resources
Critical Minerals Workforce Development: How to grow the US critical minerals workforce
Mineral Processing & Recycling: Maximizing critical mineral recovery from existing production streams
Policy & Supply Chain Economics: Reshoring critical mineral production

Workshop sponsor: National Science Foundation

Iowa Groundwater Association Spring Meeting - APRIL 30TH - INDIAN CREEK NATURE CENTER – CEDAR RAPIDS

Clickhere to view calendar event, full agenda, and to register

Registration Opens March 5 at 6AM

When: April 30, 2024 8:00am - 5:00pm

Where: Indian Creek Nature Center - 5300 Otis Rd SE - Cedar Rapids, IA 52403

Topics: Drought, Groundwater Levels, and Groundwater Contamination

CEUs for Well Contractors, Water Operators, and Groundwater Professionals will be offered, amount is TBD and will be updated ASAP.

iowa project aware - 21st annual volunteer river cleanup - skunk river - july 7 - 12, 2024

Volunteer to clean up a river for a day, the whole week, or anywhere in between
Navigate down a river up to 20 miles a day, loading trash into your canoe as you paddle
Daily registration fees include catered meals, canoes, and paddles
Tent camping areas provided each night of the journey

Pre-sale deadline: April 15 - $50/day

Early bird deadline: May 15 - $55/day

Regular deadline: June 15 - $65/day

Late deadline: after June 15 - $75/day

Space may be limited, early registration is recommended

For more information, visit www.iowaprojectaware.org, or contact Charlie at charlie@iowaprojectaware.org

WANT TO SHARE SOMETHING IN THE WEEKLY EES NEWSLETTER?

The EES Department newsletter is published every Tuesday during the academic year, outside of semester breaks. If you would like to add an event, club meeting, or other item of interest, please submit an email to clas-ees@uiowa.edu, with the subject heading "Newsletter Item," on Fridays by noon, and your submission will be added to the following Tuesday's newsletter.