Call for Applications, Educational Opportunities, Positions Available
The Green Plant Phylogeny Research Coordination Group (GPPRCG) was formed to facilitate interactions among research groups that have independent foci yet entail some aspect(s) of deep level phylogeny across the diversity of the "green" kingdom. An improved understanding of the phylogeny of green plants not only allows the intellectual satisfaction of discovering the "roots" of this major component of the world's biotic diversity, but has important practical benefits as well. Through the auspices of a tri-agency grant (USDA/NSF/ DOE) the GPPRCG has, since 1994, sponsored or cosponsored two to three symposia or workshops per year in the area of empirical and theoretical phylogenetics.
To summarize the current state of knowledge of deep level green plant phylogeny, and to make this information available to the botanical community, GPPRCG will sponsor a series of eight interlocking symposia at the XVI International Botanical Congress to be held in St. Louis, Missouri, 1-7 August, 1999. In order to increase participation by young investigators, the GPPRCG will award at least ten travel grants of up to $500 each. Undergraduate, graduate and postdoctoral students (within 5 years of their Ph.D.) whose primary research focus is the study of DEEP LEVEL GREEN PLANT PHYLOGENETlCS are eligible for these awards. To apply, applicants should send a short curriculum vitae (2-page limit), a one-page statement describing their research interests and experience in green plant phylogenetics, and a letter of recommendation from their primary advisor, in duplicate, to Dr. Elizabeth Zimmer, LMS, MSC, MRC534, Smithsonian Institution, Suitland, MD 20746 (Email: "zimmer@lms.si.edu"; FAX: 301-238-3059). Application deadline is FEBRUARY 1, 1999. . For more information on the GPPRCG (including minutes of the past meetings, as well as Data Availability Matrices for the major lineages of green plants), the IBC, and the green plant phylogeny symposia, refer to the following web sites:
GPPRCG Web Page: http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/bryolab/greenplantpage.html
Calls for Applications
"Deep Green" Student Travel Awards to IBC '99
IBC Web Site: http://www.ibc99.org/
Symposia information: http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/bryolab/GPphylo/events.html

Applications and nominations are invited for Katherine Esau Postdoctoral Fellowships which will be awarded to outstanding young scientists interested in developing careers in structural aspects of plant biology, including studies in which plant structure is integrated with function. (Preference will be given to candidates who have completed their Ph.D. within the past 5 years). Esau Fellowship will be awarded for a period of two years to enable successful candidates to work under the mentorship of a University of California, Davis faculty member. The Esau Fellowship stipend is commensurate with the NSF plant postdoctoral fellowship program.
Applications should include the identification of an appropriate faculty mentor (s), a complete curriculum vitae, reprints of published works, and a proposal (limited to 5 pages) of the research that would be carried out under this program. Applicants are required to provide three letters of reference and a letter of commitment of laboratory space from the proposed UC Davis faculty mentor.
Please send your completed application to: Chair, Faculty Advisory Committee, Esau Fellowships Program, Dean's Office, Division of Biological Sciences, 206 Life Sciences Addition, One Shields Avenue, University of California, Davis, CA 95616-8536. FAX: (530) 752-2604
Fellowships will be awarded on an annual basis. The next deadline for this program will be November 1, 1999.
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The four-year college/university section of NABT wishes to explore ways to encourage constructive interaction between its membership and that of high school teachers, via a panel discussion format at the 1998 convention in Reno. This activity is being organized by College/High School liaison members Janice Haldeman, Margarit Gray, and Jane Ellis. We are seeking your assistance by encouraging you as a 4-year college member to serve as a resource scientist to high school teacher members in your region.
We wish to develop a member resource guide for NABT high school teachers. College NABT members who are willing to be listed as resource scientists to assist high school teacher members by providing talks, workshops, laboratory equipment, supplies, procedures, and/or general advice. This assistance can be as little as a letter or an e-mail or as much as a presentation. We would like to have the resource list available for distribution at the panel presentation in Reno, and hope you are willing to become part of this project. If so, please contact: Dr. Jane P. Ellis, Department of Biology, Presbyterian College, 503 South Broad Street, Clinton, SC 29325, Phone: (864) 833-8416, Fax: (864) 833-8993, E-mail: jellis@csl.presby.edu.
Instructor: Professor P. Barry Tomlinson, E. C. Jeffrey Professor of Biology, Harvard University.
Instruction is carried out within the educational facilities of Fairchild Tropical Garden, Miami, Florida, whose living collections, the largest collection of tropical plants in the continental United States, provide the main focus of teaching activity. Field instruction will further involve the diversity of natural ecosystems in South Florida. Emphasis will be on reproductive biology, morphology, and anatomy within a strong systematic framework. Groups (both systematic and biological) of special interest include cycads, palms, tropical monocotyledons, epiphytes, lianas, mangroves, and sea grasses, as well as breeding mechanisms and architecture of tropical trees. The objective of the course is to provide advanced students of botany with a guided introduction to the diversity of plant form and function in the lowland tropics.
Prerequisites: reasonably extensive training in the botanical sciences and familiarity with the major plant groups. The course is taught at an advanced level and is most suited to students enrolled or about to be enrolled in a graduate program.
Admission is based on the Summer School application and a supplementary statement that includes the following information: course work in biology and related fields, relevant experience, travel experience in the tropics, and reasons for wanting to take the course. All application materials must be received at the Harvard Summer School by March 31, 1999. Preference will be given to graduate students.
Partial tuition and partial travel support are available for qualified students. Students will be housed collectively in comfortable and reasonably inexpensive accommodations close to Fairchild Tropical Garden.
Estimated expenses: Tuition: $1,650; Application fee: $50.00; Food and Accommodation: $35 per day.
For further information and supplementary application forms: Professor P. B. Tomlinson, Harvard Forest, Harvard University, P.O. Box 68, Petersham, MA 01 366 or Christine Santos, Division of Continuing Education, Harvard University 51 Brattle Street, Cambridge, MA 02138.
Funding is anticipated for two graduate assistantships in the field of plant molecular systematics and evolution at the University of Alaska-Fairbanks (UAF). Assistantships will begin in the Fall semester 1999. Research interests currently focus, but are not limited to, phylogenetic reconstruction and character evolution in angiosperms, including Primula and Saxifraga, and biogeographic speciation in circumboreal taxa. Given the unique location of UAF, extensive opportunities for field research in remote parts of Alaska and other circumboreal countries are readily available. Facilities at UAF include an in-house automated sequencer run by an expert technician, one of the best and most active herbaria for research on circumboreal taxa, and state-of-the-art molecular labs and greenhouse.
Students with demonstrated interest in the field of plant evolution and systematics, experience in field work and molecular techniques, and satisfactory GPA and GRE scores are encouraged to apply. Details about the Department of Biology and Wildlife can be found on the web at www.uaf.edu, and www.uafbio.alaska.edu. More information about the Department of Biology and my research in plant evolution and systematics can be found at http://mercury.bio.uaf.edu/ and http://mercury.bio.uaf.edu/~econti.faculty/index.html.
Interested students are invited to send a letter of interest, a cv, and the names of references to: Elena Conti, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Biology and Herbarium Curator University of Alaska-Fairbanks Museum 907 Yukon Drive P.O. Box 756960, Fairbanks, AK 997756960. Office: 907-474 5848 Lab: 907-474 1948 Fax: 907474 5469 Email: ffec@aurora.alaska.edu. E-Mail Submissions and Queries are Encouraged!
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Chatham College is seeking qualified applicants for a tenure-track appointment as assistant professor in biology. Teaching responsibilities include cell and molecular biology (introductory and advanced) and courses in the area of plant sciences. Additional expertise in the areas of environmental science and/or histotechniques would be welcome. The successful candidate will be expected to develop a research program that links to one of the ongoing initiatives of the College and provides opportunities for undergraduate participation. An earned doctorate and teaching experience at the college level are required.
The College, a pioneer in curricular progress, is dedicated to enabling its graduates to make an impact on the world around them. Students and staff have easy access to Pittsburgh's dynamic cultural and entertainment offerings and can share in educational and social offerings of nine other area colleges and universities. A new science complex is currently under construction and will be completed in December of 1999.
Please send letter of application, transcripts, curriculum vitae, and the names and phone numbers of three references by November 30, 1998 to: Chatham College Job #293 Human Resources Woodland Road Pittsburgh PA 15232 Chatham College is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Hillsdale College seeks full-time, tenure track, assistant professor of biology. Position starts fall 1999. Responsibilities include 2/3 teaching commitment and 1/3 directorship of 55 year old college arboretum. Teaching responsibilities include botany courses and possible involvement with general introductory biology course. Arboretum directorship responsibilities include involvement with fundraising activities, interacting with donors, cataloging, collection development, and newsletter writing. This position requires someone with an enthusiastic commitment to teaching in a small liberal arts college environment, as well as an ability to cooperate and interact with a variety of people and college departments.
Applicants encouraged to familiarize themselves with College's Mission Statement on Worldwide Web at http:Hwww.hillsdale.edu. Qualified applicants with a Ph.D. in Botany or Horticulture and preferably botanical garden, horticulture, landscaping, or related experience, should send a letter of application, three letters of reference, curriculum vitae, and a list of references to Dr. Donald Toczek, Biology Dept., Hillsdale College, Hillsdale, MI 49242. Deadline February 26, 1999.
The Division of Biology of Kansas State University invites applications for a 9-month tenure-track position at the assistant, Associate or Full Professor level in vascular plant systematics, beginning during the 1999-2000 academic year. We seek a broadly trained individual with an established and extramurally funded research program that includes modem techniques and analytical tools to address fundamental questions in plant evolution and systematics. It is expected that the successful candidate will serve as Curator/Director of the Kansas State University Herbarium and will participate in the division, graduate and undergraduate curriculum. An interest in the Great Plains flora and research expertise that complements the existing strengths in Grassland Ecology at Kansas State University are preferred. A Ph.D. or equivalent is required. The position includes a competitive salary and start-up package.
The Division of Biology is a large (60 faculty scientists) and diverse unit with a strong record of research productivity and funding. Within the Division, there are a number of faculty with research interests relevant to plant systematics, ecology and evolution; for more information see http://www.ksu.edulbiology. The Konza Prairie Research Natural Area ( http://climate.konza.ksu.edu/), a tallgrass prairie reserve that is the site of much of the ecological research within the Division, is 15 km from the University.
Applicants should submit a curriculum vitae, selected reprints, and a brief description of their research interests, and have three letters of reference sent to Alan K. Knapp, Chair; Plant Systematics Faculty Search Committee; Division of Biology; Ackert Hall; Kansas State University; Manhattan, KS 66506-4901. Review of applications will begin November 6, 1998, and continue until the position is filled. KSU is an Equal Opportunity) Affirmative Action Employer, and actively seeks diversity among its employees.
Fungal Biologist: Assistant/Associate Professor. Required qualifications: 1) Ph.D. in appropriate discipline that provides a strong background in the biological sciences, 2) an active research program in one or more areas of whole-organism fungal biology such as biodiversity, ecology (especially inter-organism interactions, e.g., lichens or mycorrhizal relationships), physiology, systematics, or developmental biology, 3) a commitment to excellence in teaching and mentoring at undergraduate and graduate levels, 4) ability to teach a comprehensive, general mycology course and other courses including general biology as well as seminars in areas of expertise. Preference will be given to individuals with post-doctoral experience, demonstrated teaching ability and experience, and ability to attract external funding.
Plant Community Ecologist: Assistant Professor. Required qualifications: 1) Ph.D. in appropriate discipline (to be completed by time of hiring). 2) an active research program in plant community ecology, 3) A commitment to excellence in teaching and mentoring at the undergraduate and graduate level, 4) ability to teach courses in plant ecology, principles of ecology, and areas of expertise. Preference will be given to individuals with post-doctoral experience, demonstrated teaching experience and ability, interest in developing links between plant community ecology and other areas in the biological sciences, demonstrable quantitative skills, empirical research experience focused on terrestrial systems, and ability to attract external funding.
Candidates for both positions will be expected to interact with colleagues in related disciplines and contribute to the overall service of the University. Positions are 9-month appointments beginning August 18, 1999, have salaries commensurate with experience, and are contingent upon budgetary approval.
Review of applications for both positions will begin 18 December 1998 and will continue until they are filled. Application materials include 1) Curriculum vitae. 2) Concise statements of (a) research interests and future directions, and (b) teaching philosophy, experience, and interests, to include description(s) of course(s) the applicant hopes to teach. 3) Copies of selected publications and/or manuscripts. 4) Letters of reference from at least three persons to be submitted to Christopher Haufler, Voice: 785-864-3255; e-mail: vulgare@ukans.edu, Chair, Fungal Biologist Search Committee, or Helen Alexander, Voice: 785-864-3221; email: h-alexander@ukans.edu, Chair, Plant Community Ecologist Search Committee, Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Haworth Hall, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045-2106, FAX: 785-864-5321
URL: http://www.ukans.edu/~eeb/. EO/AA Employer
The KU Natural History Museum Division of Botany (R. L. McGregor Herbarium) seeks applications for a non-tenure track, collection manager. The successful applicant will possess a Master's degree in Botany, collection management experience, familiarity with the taxonomy of the Great Plains flora, and research experience in systematic botany and in an electrophoresis laboratory. Application should include letter of interest, curriculum vitae, and names, addresses, and phone numbers of three references. Review of applications begins December 1, 1998. For information, contact Meredith Lane, Curator, KUNHM Division of Botany, 2045 Constant Ave., Lawrence, KS 66047-3729. 785/864-4493; FAX: 785/864-5093; e-mail: miane@ukans.edu. The University of Kansas is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.
The Department of Biology at The University of Akron invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position in plant systematics at the rank of Assistant Professor to begin August 30, 1999. Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience. Startup funds available. Candidates must hold a Ph.D. degree and have post-doctoral experience. The applicant will teach undergraduate and graduate courses, The successful candidate is expected to develop an externally-funded research program in Plant Systematics employing contemporary molecular, morphological, and statistical techniques, and to advise graduate students. The University of Akron is the third largest state university in Ohio, with more than 23,500 students. The university is in a metropolitan setting with diverse cultural and recreational opportunities, including the nearby Cuyahoga Valley National Recreation Area. Review of applications will begin January 19, 1999. Send a letter of application, curriculum vitae, copies of recent publications, statements of research and teaching interests, and three letters of recommendations to- Dr. Randy Mitchell, Chair, Plant Systematics Search Committee, Department of Biology, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44324-3908. For further information, review the Biology Department's web site at: http://www.uakron.edu/biology/. The University of Akron is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Qualified women, minorities, Vietnam -era veterans, disabled veterans, and the disabled are encouraged to apply.
Manager, Conservation Programs
Center for Plant Conservation
Missouri Botanical Garden
The Center for Plant Conservation (CPC) is seeking qualified candidates to fill the position of Manager, Conservation Programs. This position manages the CPC's national rare plant conservation program including the maintenance and growth of the National Collection of Endangered Plants and its associated database, coordination of the CPC's Priority Regions program and action plan preparation, and oversight of research program development at the CPC's national office. Position writes and manages grants, develops work and action plans and supervises department support staff, drafts budgets and monitors expenditures, and participates in conservation program planning at national and regional levels.
The successful candidate for this position will have a Master's degree in botany or conservation biology; a Ph.D. is strongly preferred. Three to five year's experience in botanic garden conservation or in a related field of conservation biology, plant conservation management, and/or research is required. Experience in working with federal and state agencies and NGOs and knowledge of the plant conservation community is highly desirable. Excellent communications, writing, and computer skills required. Familiarity with MS Office applications and, especially, MS Access, is strongly preferred. Must be willing and able to travel.
The CPC is the only national conservation organization dedicated solely to preserving the native plants of the United States. This mission is pursued through programs in conservation, education, research, and restoration, and is supported by a national database of information on America's rarest plants. The CPC national office is located at the Missouri Botanical Garden, one of the leading botanical institutions in the world. The CPC and the Garden are multi-cultural organizations, committed to inclusion in all employee, volunteer, member, and public programs. The work climate is fast-paced and the CPC and Garden staff are recognized as experts in their fields. Qualified individuals should submit a resume and three letters of reference to: Manager, Conservation Programs, Center for Plant Conservation, Human Resource Management, Missouri Botanical Garden, P.O. Box 299, St. Louis, MO 63166
Nursery Crops
Michigan State University
The Department of Horticulture at Michigan State University invite applications for a 12 month tenure track position that is 50% research and 50% extension. The individual will work on the production, management and physiology of nursery crops, particularly woody ornamentals and perennials. Applicants must have a Ph.D. in Plant Science. Individuals with postdoctoral experience in woody plant physiology, or in ecology, ecophysiology, stress physiology, and forestry are especially encouraged to apply. A record of or the potential for research productivity of the highest quality is essential, as are the abilities to collaborate productively with other disciplines, researchers, and extension personnel in program development and to communicate effectively in sharing research findings with industry and other horticultural clientele. Screening of applications will begin March 15, 1999 and will continue until a qualified applicant is identified. Send curriculum vita (transcripts, publication list), a statement of research and extension interests and goals, and have three references send letters of support to Dr. Jim Hancock, Nursery Crops Search Committee Chair, Dept of Horticulture, 288 PSSB, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824-1325 E-mail: ackson@pilot.msu.edu

The Michigan State University Herbarium seeks a full-time 2 year Collections Assistant for Lichens. The salary ($23,566 minimum, depending on experience) will be funded by a National Science Foundation grant for physical and curatorial improvements to the lichen collection. The MSU Herbarium houses one of the largest lichen collections in the world and has strong representation from the Southern Hemisphere. During the two-year grant period the Collections Assistant will be responsible for processing our backlog of lichen species overseeing a shift of the lichen specimens in the herbarium, assisting visiting scientists, coordinating our lichen exchange and loan programs, and assisting with curation of the lichen collection. The position requires a 4 year college degree in botany or a related field, basic computer literacy, and experience with lichen or plant identification. Strong preference will be given to any applicants with lichenological training, experience in an herbarium setting, and database management skills. We would like to have the position filled by I January 1999, and applications are being accepted now. Priority will be give to applications received by 12 November 1998. Send applications and refer questions to: Alan Prather, Department of Botany and Plant Biology, 168 Plant Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824-1312; PH (517) 355-4695, Fax (517) 353-1926, or email (alan@pilot.msu.edu).
Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. Michigan State University and the Department of Botany & Plant Pathology are Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employers.
Updated Positions Available:
Current position announcements are maintained on the Botanical Society’s website Announcement page at URL http://www.botany.org/bsa/announce/index.html. Please check that location for announcement which have appeared since this issue of Plant Science Bulletin went to press. To post an announcement, contact the webmaster: <srussell@ou.edu>.
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