UMCES Moodle Learning Management System

Earth and Ocean Sciences is an interdisciplinary field incorporating fundamental and applied studies of the land-estuarine-ocean system.  Students will gain a fundamental understanding of the movement and transformation of materials and energy between mountain headwater and estuarine, coastal, and oceanic systems, including geomorphology and landscape dynamics, physical circulation and transport, chemical transformation, and biological reaction.

This course gives the rules for the road for an early career scientist

The MEES 601 Applied Environmental Science (AES) course is the only required course in the MEES Curriculum.  It is intended that all MEES students take AES in their second semester, after having taken a Foundation course in their first semester. 

The AES course has been designed to promote an appreciation of interdisciplinarity in natural and social sciences and to provide exposure to how science can influence and inform ongoing policy and management debates.  The course addresses the role of science and scientists in providing information to policy makers and managers on complex environmental challenges.  The course will provide training in how to work in interdisciplinary teams, using a range of synthesis and analytical approaches.  This will culminate in the development and oral presentation of a report that analyzes and evaluates a current complex environmental challenge that requires an interdisciplinary approach for progress to be made.  The course will also train students to critically evaluate and review the reports prepared by their peers and together with an expert panel of stakeholders understand their management and policy ramifications.

The last 50 years has seen many significant advances in a broad diversity of scientific fields.  These changes continue today at an even faster rate.  Collaborative teams involving many highly specialized researchers are more common now than individual researchers with broad training.  We have access to data from multiple sources including web-based distributed databases, sophisticated instruments that automate many analyses and computers that permit rapid calculations that combine to increase research capabilities. At the same time, competition to achieve precedence in a research field has intensified.  Over this period of dramatic change, the scrutiny of science and scientists has increased, leading to high profile examples of misconduct in several fields.  

In this seminar we explore the “rules of the road” for being a scientist today.  Using a case study approach, the seminar will cover concepts of how science is regulated, what constitutes misconduct, how research is planned, conducted and reported, authorship and data ownership, as well as the ethical treatment of human and animal subjects.  The seminar will focus particularly on mentor and trainee interactions.

Fishery management relies on a quantitative understanding of population dynamics and the effects of exploitation on marine resources. This course will focus on developing students’ quantitative and modeling skills, including understanding of population dynamics and responses of populations to exploitation and management actions. The course will cover population models of production, mortality, stock and recruitment, age and growth, and harvesting, and methods for using these models to provide management advice. Particular attention will be paid to assumptions and data requirements of models. Additionally, the course will have a component of statistical model fitting and simulation.

Disease is a significant but poorly understood factor in marine ecosystem dynamics, and has significance for humans as outbreaks can directly impact fisheries, aquaculture,  ecosystem services, and human health. The course is a 1 credit seminar in which students will lead presentations and discussions of important and contemporary peer reviewed studies on the ecology and evolution of diseases in aquatic systems. Discussions will address contextual information on strengths and weaknesses of disease detection methods, population and ecosystem consequences, and anthropogenic influences and management of diseases. The course will include guest lectures and discussions led by researchers of diseases that threaten vertebrate, crustacean, molluscan, and cnidarian species.

Expected Learning Outcomes

The goal of the class is to develop students’ literature search, critical reading, synthesis, and discussion skills.

● Literacy in disease ecology and evolution and effects of diseases on marine systems.

● Strategies for critically reading and synthesizing results from multiple scientific papers;

● Gain a broad appreciation for the diversity and impact of aquatic diseases and how they change with time.

Course Assessment / Grading

The course will be graded on a pass-fail basis.  Students are expected to read and synthesize the results from a primary research paper, read and assemble information on the background of the paper, and prepare a presentation and lead discussion of the paper for the class. Students are expected to contribute to discussions in each class.

Grading will be based on student presentations and leading discussion (65%) and class participation (35%).

This is a comprehensive course designed to provide students with a broad perspective on the subject of environmental health issues pertinent to the Chesapeake Bay. It will provide a historical context, a description of the major stressors impacting the Bay and the current health of the Bay and it's organisms. We will investigate some of the reasons for it's current state of health and provide numerous case study examples documenting the major issues concerning the health of the Bay and it's resident organisms. Many of the case studies will discuss the major species in the Bay (e.g. oysters, blue crabs, fish) and be presented by local leading experts in the specific topics. In addition, concepts and examples will be discussed in a broader perspective with reference to other estuarine systems.

This course is a quantitative exploration of isotopic systems in the environment. We will go beyond the introduction of basic isotope geochemical concepts and focus on the calculations and considerations necessary for using isotopes as tools for answering a variety of science questions. Examples will be taken from ecology, archaeology, physiology, climatology, and geology. Students will learn the physical theory behind fractionation and be able to plan and interpret results of isotope tracer experiments through basic calculations and box modeling. The majority of the examples will be from stable isotopes, but we will also spend some time with radioactive isotopes and their application in studying natural systems. This course is designed for the student who has some experience already with the basic concepts in isotope geochemistry and is ready to take it to the next level to practice using those basic concepts quantitatively. Students will gain practical experience through weekly problem sets. Periodic exams throughout the semester will be used to assess student learning, with a final exam at the end. Prerequisite: MEES 626 or permission of instructor.

This course will reinforce and extend the mathematical education that students bring to graduate studies in the environmental sciences. It will explore mathematical approaches and solutions (both analytical and numerical) that cut across environmental disciplines, and it will introduce analytical techniques that are taught infrequently in other courses. The goal is to provide students with the tools and confidence they need to apply quantitative methods in their own research. The mathematical programming language MATLAB is used to solve problems in class, to complete homework sets, and to program numerical solutions of difference/differential equations.

This seminar-style course will use peer-reviewed literature to explore the methane cycle on Earth in general and then focus on methane in the Chesapeake Bay.  Methane is a powerful greenhouse gas and it has been reported that free gas resides in 30% of the Bay sediments; why is it there?  Does it escape the sediments?  Does it escape the water column?  We will explore how methane is produced in sediments, learning some fundamental concepts of biogeochemical cycling.  We will also explore the various ways methane is broken down by microbes in the sediments and water column.  Students will be required to participate in open-forum discussions during class and to present one paper on methane cycling.   

The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES) invites applications for a full-time faculty librarian / information specialist (Librarian II/III). We are seeking a forward‐thinking, dynamic leader who will help transition our library service from one focused on collection management to one which focuses on developing and delivering a range of innovative information services that facilitate the research needs of our faculty, staff and students. In particular, we are interested in candidates who combine skills to address the emerging need to identify, search and manage electronic data and information from diverse sources with traditional librarianship. As head UMCES librarian the candidate will be expected to serve as a resource for faculty, staff and students throughout the institution.

The position is based at the Chesapeake Biological Laboratory (CBL) in Solomons, MD. The UMCES library at CBL combines a unique, historical collection with developing information databases to support our mission of providing research to guide science‐based solutions to environmental policy challenges. The core duties of the librarian include:

Information specialist (40%)

Identify, evaluate and utilize information retrieval systems to meet the needs of faculty, staff

     and students

Support users by providing leadership in design and working with technical staff on the imple-

     mentation and access to databases and data management system at UMCES and online

Guide development of meta‐data standards for commonly reported data to meet needs of users

Librarianship (40%)

Manage existing collection and improve access to information in the historical collection

Oversee move to new facility by 2019

Manage journal and database subscription services

Manage and coordinate inter‐library loan requests

Provide customized reference services for users

Instructional responsibilities (10%)

Develop and implement library instructional programs in environmental sciences including

     support and training of  faculty, staff and students to access library resources as well as

     citation management and data management  resources

Identify, evaluate and promote new information resources to faculty, staff and students

Promote use of library resources to UMCES faculty, staff and students

 Administrative responsibilities (10%)

Represent UMCES on the University System of Maryland and Affiliated Institutions Council of

     Library Directors

Attend CBL Faculty and Administrative Council meetings

Maintain active membership in relevant professional organization(s).

 This is a full time, 12‐month appointment as a Librarian II or Librarian III. We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, dependent on qualifications. An ALA accredited Master’s degree or foreign equivalent and two years of professional experience in an academic or special library is required at time of appointment. A demonstrated science background through either academic qualification or relevant work experience is desirable.

 To apply, please send a cover letter, a statement of your vision of a 21st Century environmental science research library, a curriculum vitae, examples of professional publications and contact information for 3 potential references to personnel@cbl.umces.edu  with Librarian in the subject line. Applications should be received by November 15 for full consideration. For more details about the position or UMCES in general, please contact Dr. Hongsheng Bi (hbi@umces.edu), chair of the search committee, or Dr. Thomas Miller (miller@umces.edu), CBL’s Director.

 UMCES is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer. Individuals with disabilities, veterans, women and minorities are encouraged to apply.

The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, Chesapeake Biological Laboratory in Solomons, Maryland seeks a Maintenance Aide II in its Maintenance and Facilities department.  The successful candidate will be responsible for performing scheduled and unscheduled minor maintenance in buildings assigned, assist mechanics and various trades with assigned projects. Perform maintenance inspections in areas as assigned.  This position provides a wide range of housekeeping services to ensure cleanliness, orderliness and attractive conditions are maintained in assigned buildings. This position will require moving of furniture, operating vacuums, buffers and other cleaning machinery as well as other general maintenance duties.

QUALIFICATIONS:  A high school diploma or GED and two year of related work experience are required.  General computer skills are required with the ability to read work orders and follow written instructions. Knowledge of general practices and techniques associated with campus basic maintenance is desired.

Send resume with the names and contact information of three (3) references in one pdf file to:  personnel@cbl.umces.edu and reference: Maintenance Aide in the subject line.

In-person applications will be accepted Monday-Friday 8:30 - 12:00 at Human Resources, 150 Farren Avenue, Solomons, MD 20688

Resumes or applications received by October 15, 2017 will receive full consideration. 

UMCES is an AA/EOE/ADA employer; women and minorities are encouraged to apply.

Faculty Research Assistant I – Fisheries and Oceanography

The Chesapeake Biological Laboratory of the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (www.umces.edu/CBL) seeks a person to provide technical support for research programs on estuarine fishes and coastal ecology. The appointee will join a research team conducting work on black sea bass in the Atlantic ocean and on blue crab and oyster in the Chesapeake Bay. It is expected that the appointee will spend about 20 days at sea each year, and must be able to work under adverse conditions. The successful applicant will have experience in data management and statistical analysis. The successful applicant will also be responsible for duties supporting CBL’s research and outreach program including running a CTD on oceanographic cruises, and maintaining an integrated water quality/weather station. 

A B.S. degree is required.  Salary range is from $32,000 p.a. dependent upon education and experience. Health benefits are available. The duration of appointment is contingent on continued funding. Applications should be received by July 17, 2017 for full consideration. To apply, please send a curriculum vitae, a summary of your professional experience and contact information for 3 potential references in a single PDF file to personnel@cbl.umces.edu with Fisheries FRA in the subject line. For more details about the position or CBL in general, please contact Dr. Thomas Miller (Miller@umces.edu). 

 UMCES is an EOE/AA employer. Individuals with disabilities, veterans, women and minorities are encouraged to apply.

The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES), Chesapeake Biological Laboratory (CBL), is accepting applications for a Faculty Research Assistant to assist with a passive acoustic monitoring study for marine mammals of Maryland. This position is a contractual position for 3 months with the possibility of 1-month extension dependent upon successful performance. Duties will include deployment and recovery of acoustic equipment at sea, and processing and analysis of acoustic data. The project involves the use of SM3M hydrophones and C-PODs. Experience with these devices, or similar types, will be preferable. Applicants should be familiar with Excel and have experience with ambient and marine mammal sound analysis, including software such as PAMGUARD and Raven. Experience with the R software package and GIS mapping is also desirable. For more details about the position, please contact Dr. Helen Bailey (hbailey@umces.edu). Minimum requirement is a B.S. degree with more than 2 years research experience, which should include marine mammal acoustic applications. Salary dependent upon qualifications and experience. Anticipated start date is 1 February 2017. Applications should include a cover letter, CV, and the names and contact information of three references (including email and phone) to be received by 12/15/16 by email to personnel@cbl.umces.edu with FRA-HB in the subject line.

UMCES is an EOE/affirmative action employer.  Individuals with disabilities, veterans, women, and minorities are encouraged to apply.

Assistant Research Scientist in Estuarine Biogeochemical Modeling

Location: University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science - Chesapeake Biological Laboratory, Solomons, Maryland, USA

Salary: Competitive salary, benefits

End Date: Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a qualified candidate is identified.  Anticipated start date is February 2017, with flexibility.

Applications are invited for an Assistant Research Scientist (a postdoctoral scholar) now available in the Ecosystem Studies Group at the UMCES Chesapeake Biological Laboratory (CBL) in Solomons, Maryland (http://www.umces.edu/cbl). This position will focus on developing and implementing numerical models to support the understanding of estuarine biogeochemical processes, including nutrient cycling, oxygen depletion, and phytoplankton dynamics as they respond to changes in external forcing. This effort will include the development of a model for carbonate chemistry to quantify the interactions of fossil acidification and eutrophication. We seek highly motivated applicants with demonstrated problem-solving and quantitative skills, as this position will include participation in multiple large, inter-disciplinary projects. Experience with FORTRAN and Matlab as applied to hydrodynamic (e.g. ROMS) and/or biogeochemical modeling is strongly recommended. Strong writing and communication skills are essential.

Salary and benefits will depend on academic background and job experience. Electronic applications (including a full CV, description of past experiences, and names and addresses of three references) should be sent to personnel@cbl.umces.edu with, Reference: Post-Doc-Testa in the subject line. For more information regarding this position, applicants can contact Dr. Jeremy Testa (jtesta@umces.edu).

Applications received by December 15, 2016 will receive full consideration. 

UMCES is an AA/EOE employer.  Individuals with Disabilities, Veterans, Women and Minorities are encouraged to apply.

Faculty Research Assistant – Coastal Ecology

An opening is available for a Faculty Research Assistant (FRA) in the laboratory of Dr. Lora Harris at the Chesapeake Biological Laboratory, part of the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science.  Research involves diverse activities in field work, laboratory, and numerical analysis related to coastal ecology. 

 The primary purpose of this position will be 1) to coordinate and carry out a long term (30 years) water quality monitoring program in shallow tidal creeks near the Chesapeake Biological Laboratory, 2) participate in other ongoing research projects involving varied field work aboard small boats, in wetlands, and sampling streams, 3) carry out some laboratory analysis, especially incubations for photosynthesis and respiration, and 4) provide essential support to Dr. Harris with data analysis, GIS, figure and report preparation.  Field work requires experience trailering and handling small boats, as well as calibration, maintenance, and deployment of water quality sondes and light sensors. Desirable laboratory skills include exposure to primary production measurements, dissolved oxygen sensors, and processing of water samples for pigment and nutrient analyses. Some experience with numerical analysis is emphasized, in particular manipulation of large datasets, familiarity with programming software such as R or Matlab, and some talent for the valuable tasks of figure preparation. 

 Qualifications:

Required: Bachelor’s Degree in biology, chemistry, oceanography, ecology or related degree plus a minimum of 2 years of experience. Familiarity with field and laboratory measurements of the biological and chemical properties of seawater. Working knowledge of basic computer software (e.g., Microsoft Office) and at least one specialized software program such as ArcGIS, R, Matlab, Sigmaplot, or similar. Valid driver’s license, small boat experience, ability and willingness to make overnight travel, ability to participate in field sampling is also necessary. Ability to do occasional lifting and carrying of equipment up to 40 pounds. Finally, we seek someone with strong interpersonal skills to join our team of coastal ecologists.

 Salary will depend on academic background and job experience. Funding for this position is contingent on continued funding. Full or part-time options are possible. Electronic applications (including a full CV, description of past experiences, and names and addresses of three references) should be sent to personnel@cbl.umces.edu Reference: Lora Harris in the subject line

 Applications received by May 4, 2016 will receive full consideration.

UMCES is an EOE. Individuals with disabilities, veterans, women and minorities are encouraged to apply.

Applications are invited for an Assistant Research Scientist (i.e., a postdoctoral scholar) now available in the Ecosystem Studies Group at the UMCES Chesapeake Biological Laboratory (CBL) in Solomons, Maryland (http://www.umces.edu/cbl). This position will focus on developing and implementing numerical models to support the understanding of estuarine biogeochemical processes, including nutrient cycling, oxygen depletion, and phytoplankton dynamics, as they respond to changes in external inputs of freshwater, nutrients, and organic matter. This effort will include the development of a model for carbonate chemistry to quantify the interactions of fossil acidification and eutrophication in Chesapeake Bay. We seek highly motivated applicants with demonstrated problem-solving and quantitative skills. 

This position will include participation in multiple large, inter-disciplinary projects aimed at understanding the interactions of multiple external drivers in driving short- and long-term changes in estuarine biogeochemistry.  Specifically, the successful applicant will enhance an existing hydrodynamic-biogeochemical model in Chesapeake Bay. Experience with FORTRAN and Matlab programming is essential and strong writing and communication skills are recommended.

Salary and benefits will depend on academic background and job experience. Electronic applications (including a full CV, description of past experiences, and names and addresses of three references) should be sent to personnel@cbl.umces.edu with, Reference: Post-Doc-Testa in the subject line. For more information regarding this position, applicants can contact Dr. Jeremy Testa (jtesta@umces.edu).

Applications received by March 4, 2016 will receive full consideration. 

UMCES is an AA/EOE employer.  Individuals with Disabilities, Veterans, Women and Minorities are encouraged to apply.

Quantitative Fisheries Science

University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science

Chesapeake Biological Laboratory

Applications received by March 1, 2016 will receive our full consideration.

We seek applicants for an assistant research professor in quantitative fisheries science. The position complements and enhances existing strengths in fisheries science, ecology, oceanography, geochemistry, and ecotoxicology at the Laboratory and in marine and environmental sciences more broadly within the Center.  We particularly seek candidates interested in integrating survey and other empirical studies with synthesis or modeling to complex living resource questions.  Strong statistical and modeling skills, enthusiasm for collaboration within multidisciplinary teams, and the ability to conduct synthetic, high impact research are important attributes. Candidates with experience in population modeling and stock assessment are encouraged to apply. The successful applicant will establish and maintain an externally-funded research program that demonstrates excellence to support the majority of their salary.

 UMCES faculty mentor and teach graduate students in environmental science through the University System of Maryland’s Marine, Estuarine, and Environmental Science (MEES) program (http://www.mees.umd.edu).  Excellent opportunities for collaborative, interdisciplinary research are available with colleagues throughout UMCES (http://www.umces.edu), as well as other branches of the University System of Maryland.  . 

 Salary and benefits are competitive and dependent on qualifications. Ph.D. is required at time of appointment and postdoctoral or other experience is preferred. To apply, please send a statement of research and teaching interests, a curriculum vitae, 3 exemplary publications and contact information for 3 potential references to <i>personnel@cbl.umces.edu with Quantitative Fisheries Scientist in the subject line.  For more details about the position or CBL in general, please contact Dr. Hongsheng Bi (HBi@umces.edu), chair of the search committee. 

Plumber Specialist

 The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, Chesapeake Biological Laboratory in Solomons, Maryland seeks a Plumber Specialist in its Maintenance and Facilities department.  Duties include oversight, diagnosing problems, repairing, and maintaining the University’s comprehensive seawater system.  Additional duties include general maintenance and repairs of plumbing related equipment and systems throughout the campus.  This includes steam lines, domestic and laboratory piping, specialized laboratory equipment, underground piping, pumps, restroom fixtures, and various other systems.  The position requires a comprehensive knowledge of and skill in the theory, principles, methods and techniques used in the pipe fitting and plumbing trade including water valves, sewer, storm drain systems, steam and hot and chilled water systems. Experience with automated building control systems, direct digital controls and strong computer skills are required.  The ability to lift 50 pounds, work in, on, over and under mechanical equipment and at heights up to 35 feet. Work in hazardous and confined environments and during adverse weather and temperature conditions is also required of the successful candidate.

 QUALIFICATIONS:  A high school diploma or GED and six years of related work experience are required.  Must have a Maryland State certification as a licensed master plumber and be familiar with applicable OSHA and EPA regulations.

 Send resume with the names and contact information of three (3) references to:  personnel@cbl.umces.edu and reference “Plumber” in the subject line.

 Resumes received by October 15, 2015 will receive full consideration.  The position will remain open until filled.

UMCES is an AA/EOE/ADA employer; women and minorities are encouraged to apply.

Faculty Research Assistant

Maritime Environmental Resource Center

University of Maryland

Center for Environmental Science,

Chesapeake Biological Laboratory

Solomons Island, MD

 The University of Maryland, Center for Environmental Science (UMCES) is seeking a full time facility and operations manager (Faculty Research Assistant) to assist in various projects under the Maritime Environmental Resource Center (MERC, www.maritime-enviro.org).  MERC is a State of Maryland and Federally funded partnership based at the Chesapeake Biological Laboratory/UMCES, which provides test facilities, information, and decision tools to address key environmental issues facing the international maritime industry.  Our initial focus is on evaluating the mechanical and biological efficacy of ballast water treatment systems to prevent invasive species, and to study the economic impacts of ballast water regulations and management approaches.

 We are interested in self-motivated technical individuals with marine and or environmental science experience and a strong interest in the emerging marine environmental industry.  Qualifications include:

• College degree in marine biological or environmental science, a Masters degree preferred;
• Experience operating and maintaining watercraft for scientific research;
• Certified SCUBA diver with experience in research diving preferred; and
• Experience managing large groups, working with federal agencies, and working internationally.

Applicants with advanced certificates, or with experience/specialized skills in technical and regulatory areas related to the research topics listed above, are also encouraged to apply. 

UMCES offers a competitive salary dependent upon qualifications, full range of benefits and retirement packages, an academic working environment, opportunities for continued education, and potential for career advancement.  The duration of the appointment is contingent upon continued project funding. 

 Send cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references by October 25, 2015, to personnel@cbl.umces.edu. Please reference: MERC in the subject line.

 UMCES is an AA/EOE employer. Individuals with disabilities, veterans, women and minorities are encouraged to apply.

working group 6

working group 4

Working Group 2

Graduate Student Assistantship in Quantitative Ecology

Location: University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science – Chesapeake Biological Laboratory

Salary: Competitive stipend, benefits, 3 years of support.

End Date: Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until suitable candidates are identified.  Anticipated start date is January 2015.

Description: 

Applications are invited for a graduate student assistantship (M.Sc. or Ph.D.) now available in the Ecosystem Studies Group at the UMCES Chesapeake Biological Laboratory (CBL) in Solomons, Maryland (http://www.umces.edu/cbl). The position will focus on developing numerical models to support understanding of estuarine ecosystems as a component of a larger interdisciplinary research project.  We seek highly motivated applicants with demonstrated problem-solving and quantitative skills. 

Oyster Reef Modeling:  The student will work to further develop an existing advection-diffusion model simulating particle capture on an oyster reef to also include ecosystem processes relevant to estuarine nitrogen cycling.  This project complements an ongoing empirical research program to study oyster reef restoration in the Choptank estuary, which is one of two sites in NOAA’s North Atlantic Region selected as a Habitat Focus Areas under NOAA’s Habitat Blueprint. Communication skills will be valued to facilitate productive collaborations with field researchers, and some experimental work may be expected as a component of the modeling effort.  Experience with Matlab programming is a plus.

Applications:

Graduate students at the Chesapeake Biological Laboratory matriculate through the Marine Estuarine & Environmental Sciences (MEES) graduate program at the University of Maryland.  Details about the program can be found at: http://www.mees.umd.edu/. For more information regarding the position, please contact Dr. Lora Harris (harris@umces.edu) and Dr. Jeremy Testa (jtesta@umces.edu) by e-mail.  Prospective students should send a cover letter, CV, and the names and contact information of three references (including email and phone) to personnel@cbl.umces.edu with GRA-LH in the subject line.

Nominees for the ONE 2 year Solomon's House Fellowship for 2021-2023

new hire search committee

Site to host the meeting minutes for CBL's academic council.