GBGM Happenings at GSA 2018

Hi Everyone,

I am sure you are all enthusiastically preparing for the 2018 GSA meeting in Indianapolis! We wanted to reach out to you before the meeting and let you know about some GSA GBGM sponsored events (and some events that may interest you as Geo(micro)biologists)! The Paleontological Society has a similar list here.

See you in Indy!

Social Events (organized by date) 

Paleontological Society (PS) Short Course: Pedagogy and Technology in the Modern Paleontology Classroom – Saturday November 3, 9 AM-5 PM, ICC Sagamore Ballroom 6. FREE.

Meeting of the International Stratigraphic Commission, The Precambrian – Sunday, ICC room 242, Noon to 1pm.

Paleontological Society (PS) Business Meeting and Awards Reception Buffet – Sunday

November 4, 6:30-10:30 PM. ICC 500 Ballroom *Ticketed*

Night at the Indiana State Museum – A Student & Early Career Professionals Networking Event - Sun., 4 Nov., 7-9:30 p.m. $20. Indiana State Museum

Association for Women Geoscientists (AWG) Networking Breakfast & Awards Ceremony
Mon., 5 Nov., 6:30-8:30 a.m. Professionals: $29; Students: $10. Indiana Convention Center, Sagamore Ballroom 4

Definitely come to our Geobiology/Geomicrobiology Division Luncheon – Monday Nov. 5 12:00pm-1:15pm, JW Marriott Indianapolis – White River Ballroom Section D. This lunch is open to all Geo(micro)biologists and is FREE.

Paleontological Society (PS) Town Hall Meeting: As a scientist, how can I participate in government and policy? Monday, November 5, 5:30-7:00 PM. ICC Room 142. FREE

Paleontological Society (PS) Schuchert Talk and Student Social with last year's Schuchert Award winner Caroline Strömberg – Monday November 5, 6:30-8:00 PM. ICC Room 143-144. FREE

Paleontological Society (PS) Women in Paleontology Reception – Tuesday Nov. 6, 6:00-9:00 PM, at the Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery, 10 W. Washington St. FREE

GBGM Sponsored Sessions (organized by date)

T37. Global Change: Evolution and Extinctions in the Triassic: Monday Nov. 5 8am-12pm, Room 136-137

T126. Earth and Life Co-Evolution in the Early to Middle Neoproterozoic (1000 to ca. 635 Ma): Monday Nov. 5 8am-12pm, Room 143-144

D64. Advances in Stable Isotope Geochemistry–Applications to Earth Science Systems: Monday Nov. 5 1:30pm-5:30pm, Room 135

T29. New Voices in Geobiology I: Tuesday Nov. 6 8am-12pm, Room 243

T29. New Voices in Geobiology (Posters): Tuesday Nov. 6 9am-6:30pm, Halls J-K

T29. New Voices in Geobiology II: Tuesday Nov. 6 1:30pm-5:30pm, Room 243

T174. Permian-Triassic Biotic Crisis: New Insights through Integrative Studies of Earth, Ocean, and Atmosphere: Tuesday Nov. 6 1:30pm-5:30pm, Sagamore Ballroom 7

T157. Evolving Perspectives of the Precambrian World: Using Combined Theoretical and Applied Approaches to Tackle Problems at the Intersection of Geology, Geobiology, and Geochemistry: Tuesday Nov. 6 1:30pm-5:30pm, Sagamore Ballroom 7

T157. Evolving Perspectives of the Precambrian World: Using Combined Theoretical and Applied Approaches to Tackle Problems at the Intersection of Geology, Geobiology, and Geochemistry (Posters): Tuesday Nov. 6 9am-6:30pm, Halls J-K

T174. Permian-Triassic Biotic Crisis: New Insights through Integrative Studies of Earth, Ocean, and Atmosphere (Posters): Tuesday Nov. 6 9am-6:30pm, Halls J-K

T157. Evolving Perspectives of the Precambrian World: Using Combined Theoretical and Applied Approaches to Tackle Problems at the Intersection of Geology, Geobiology, and Geochemistry (Posters): Tuesday Nov. 6 9am-6:30pm, Halls J-K

T172. Critical Zone Science—Bio-Geo Interactions across Environmental Gradients and Time: Wednesday Nov. 7 8am-12:00pm, Room 134

T172. Critical Zone Science—Bio-Geo Interactions across Environmental Gradients and Time (Posters): Wednesday Nov. 7 9:00am-6:30pm, Halls J-K

Assitant Professor in Earth History - University of Victoria

The School of Earth and Ocean Sciences (SEOS) at the University of Victoria invites applications for a Tenure-Track Assistant Professor position in Earth History, to commence as early as September 1, 2019. We seek a solid-earth scientist who undertakes field investigations and observations of the rock record to study global (bio)geochemical cycles in the context of global tectonics, climate, paleoceanography, paleogeography and/or the hydrosphere. We particularly seek candidates who will develop a research focus that examines the Earth as a system. The candidate will be able to interact broadly with faculty who specialize in solid-earth, earth-surface, ocean, and atmosphere processes.

The successful candidate will develop a vigorous, independent, externally-funded research program that complements existing strengths in SEOS. It is also expected that the candidate will supervise undergraduate and graduate students, and teach undergraduate and graduate courses related to introductory geology, tectonics, sedimentology, geochemistry, geological field schools and/or other core geology areas. A PhD is required at the time of evaluation and post-doctoral experience is desirable. Commensurate with their career stage, qualified candidates must have an excellent record of research published in or in preparation for leading scientific journals. Effective teaching and student supervision are expected, supported by evidence which may include past experience, references, a teaching statement (see below), and the presentation of a candidacy seminar.

Applications, in a single pdf file, should include a letter of application, a detailed curriculum vitae, contact information (name, address, email) for three references, a one-page statement describing the applicant’s teaching experience and philosophy, and a two-page statement describing their current and future research interests/direction. Applications or requests for further information should be sent electronically to Dr. Stan Dosso, Director, School of Earth and Ocean Sciences, at seos@uvic.ca. Review of applications will begin on December 5, 2018, and will continue until a suitable candidate is identified. Information about SEOS can be found at www.uvic.ca/science/seos/.

Three Tenure-Track Geoscience Faculty Positions at UBC

The Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences (EOAS) at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, invites outstanding applicants for one full-time, tenure-track faculty position in each of the three following fields:
1) Sedimentary geology: We seek a sedimentary geologist who integrates field- and laboratory-based research to investigate sedimentological processes and the evolution of sedimentary basins. Demonstrated ability to apply such research as is, or integrated with other earth science fields to gain novel insights into the tectonic evolution of Earth's crust is an asset. The ideal candidate will excel at teaching clastic sedimentology and field school in the undergraduate Geology program.
2) Earth surface processes: We seek a geoscientist who uses the field laboratory to formulate and test hypotheses to elucidate the processes that shape the Earth's (near-) surface. The position targets fields at the interface between the solid Earth and its surface environment, such as, geomorphology, neotectonics, soil system science and fluid-rock interaction. The ideal candidate will significantly contribute to field-based undergraduate teaching in the Geology program.
3) Earth system science: We seek a cross-disciplinary geoscientist who uses an innovative combination of field, analytical and numerical methods to investigate the mechanisms operating in the Earth system, past or present. Candidates whose research profile would demonstrably bridge between our existing strengths in earth, ocean and atmospheric science are specifically encouraged to apply. The ideal candidate will teach across our undergraduate geoscience programs.

The positions are at the rank of Assistant Professor, although it is possible that a position could be offered at a higher rank for an applicant with exceptional qualifications. A PhD degree is required and postdoctoral experience is considered important. Candidates are expected to develop a strong, externally funded and internationally recognized research program, successfully supervise graduate students, effectively teach undergraduate and graduate courses, and participate in departmental activities

UBC's strategic plan identifies inclusion as one of our key priorities. We welcome colleagues with the experiences and competencies that can contribute to our principles of inclusion, equity, and diversity throughout campus life.

How to Apply
Application packages should include:

• i) a cover letter; you should indicate the search area that most closely aligns with your research
• ii) a detailed curriculum vita
• iii) a one-page summary of research interests and accomplishments
• iv) a one-page outline of a potential five-year research program
• v) a one-page statement of teaching philosophy
• vi) three recent publications
• vii) a statement describing your experience working with a diverse student body and your contributions to creating/advancing a culture of equity and inclusion on campus or within your discipline.

These should be combined into a single PDF document and be uploaded through the UBC Careers website at: www.facultycareers.ubc.ca/31614.
In addition, the names and contact details of three referees should be entered online here:
https://www.eoas.ubc.ca/content/geosearch

We will contact your referees and ask them to submit reference letters. It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure that their referees submit their letters before December 3, 2018. Review of applications will start December 3, 2018. The successful applicants are expected to start in July 2019 or at a date of mutual agreement. The positions are subject to final budgetary approval.

If you have questions, please contact the Search Committee Chair, Professor Dr. Maite Maldonado, by email at the following address: email: mmaldonado@eoas.ubc.ca.

Paleontology Postdoc - San Diego Natural History Museum

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Fellowship position in the Department of Paleontology at the San Diego Natural History Museum (SDNHM). This is the first year of the James R. Colclough Paleontology Postdoctoral Fellowship, which supports research in marine mammal paleobiology and evolutionary biology. The Fellowship was created to honor the memory of James R. Colclough, longtime volunteer in the Department of Paleontology, and is funded by the James R. Colclough Paleontology Endowment.

Objective:
The Fellowship is designed to advance the academic and professional training of the next generation of vertebrate paleobiologists by providing them with the funding and facilities to pursue specific, time-limited research projects in association with Museum scientists and utilizing vertebrate fossil specimens housed in the SDNHM Department of Paleontology.

Responsibilities:
Duties will include conducting original research in marine mammal paleobiology, providing research assistance to the Curator of Paleontology, and introducing new technologies and analytical methods into the Museum setting. Postdoctoral Fellows are expected to be in residence at SDNHM full time and actively engaged in the SDNHM community. The position will include opportunities for interactions with colleagues at nearby San Diego State University and/or University of California, San Diego.

Compensation:
Annual compensation is $48,432 to $51,324 (depending upon experience), plus fringe benefits. Supplemental research funds also may be available. Appointments will typically be made for two years contingent on satisfactory progress in year one.

Qualifications:
To be considered for this position, applicants must have received a PhD degree within the past six (6) years. Soon-to-graduate PhDs may apply, but all formal requirements for a Ph.D. must be completed before the start of the appointment.

Applicants should submit a cover letter (2-3 pages), a succinct statement (~700 words) detailing current work and research interests, an up to date curriculum vitae, a list of publications, and the names and contact information for two professional references. Please submit materials to Thomas A. Deméré (tdemere@sdnhm.org) by November 30, 2018.

Starting Date: As soon as February 1, 2019 (but negotiable)

Assistant Professor in Paleobiology - University of South Florida

The School of Geosciences at the University of South Florida is seeking applicants for a 9 month, full-time and tenure-earning, Assistant Professor in Paleobiology. Candidates should have outstanding potential to develop an externally funded research program, mentor graduate students, and teach undergraduate and graduate courses in paleobiology, with preference given to exceptional candidates with strengths in stratigraphy and sedimentology. The successful candidate will complement and integrate with our existing school strengths in paleobiology (http://hennarot.forest.usf.edu/main/depts/geosci/research/paleo/paleo/), geology, environmental science, and geography, and with university-wide working groups in evolutionary biology and/or the Anthropocene (https://www.usf.edu/arts-sciences/institutes/iasce/). A PhD in Geology or related field is required and must be conferred by appointment start date.

To apply, please visit http://employment.usf.edu and attach a cover letter, CV, teaching philosophy, evidence of successful research, and provide names and contact information for three references. Review of applications will begin on November 29, 2018. Additional information is available by emailing the search committee chair, Dr. Gregory Herbert (gherbert@usf.edu). Salary is negotiable.

The University of South Florida, established in 1956 and located in Tampa, is a high-impact global research university serving more than 50,000 students. USF ranks in the top 30 nationally for research expenditures among public universities, according to the National Science Foundation. In 2018, the Florida Board of Governors designated USF as a Preeminent State Research University, placing USF in the most elite category among the state’s 12 public universities.

Assistant Curator (Museum Education) Florida Museum of Natural History

The Florida Museum of Natural History (FLMNH), University of Florida, invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position at the Assistant Curator level in the broad field of natural history museum education, with an anticipated starting date of August 2019. The academic focus will be learning research with informal (museum) and formal (K-12) audiences. In addition to other museum faculty and staff, the incumbent will be expected to develop collaborations with other UF colleges, including teaching courses and mentoring undergraduate and graduate students. We are particularly interested in candidates who align within the mission of the Thompson Institute for Earth Systems (www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/ties) as well as add to, and build, educational programs involving the collections-based research strengths of the FLMNH.

The appointee will be a faculty member in the FLMNH (www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu), and will benefit from a strong collaborative culture across all museum disciplines and other colleges at UF. UF values broad diversity in its faculty, students, and staff and is committed to a robust, inclusive and welcoming climate for learning, research, and other work. UF is committed to equal educational and employment opportunity and access and seeks individuals of all races, ethnicities, genders and other attributes who, among their many exceptional qualifications, have a record of including a broad diversity of individuals in work and learning activities. The University of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Qualifications
Qualified candidates must have a PhD in the learning sciences, education, or relevant science domain by the time of appointment, with content focus in natural history, biodiversity, and/or earth systems. Demonstrated research emphasis will include one or more of the following: museum science (STEM) education, broadening participation, state-wide and community engagement, and/or scalable e-learning. Additional desired skills and experience include program evaluation and externally funded research.


Application Instructions
The search committee will begin reviewing applications on November 21, 2018 and will continue to receive applications until this position is filled. Applications received after this date may be considered at the discretion of the committee and/or hiring authority. The application must include: (1) cover letter; (2) curriculum vitae; (3) statement of no more than 3 pages describing research, teaching, and museum education experience; (4) digital copies of no more than three publications; (5) the names of three individuals for letters of recommendation.
Apply here: https://apply.interfolio.com/55521
For additional information, please contact Bruce MacFadden (bmacfadd@flmnh.ufl.edu), Chair, Search Committee.

Director for Penn State EMS Museum and Gallery

The College of Earth and Mineral Sciences (EMS) at Penn State’s University Park campus is seeking a Director who will promote the mission of the EMS Museum and Gallery, namely “to preserve and promote the diverse collections of Penn State’s College of Earth & Mineral Sciences by serving as an informed resource for science and art education.”

 The EMS museum possesses a world-class collection of mineral and rock specimens, original artwork of historic significance (including the noteworthy Steidle Collection of American Industrial Art), and significant collections of fossils, ceramics, glass, and artifacts of science and industry. The museum is currently in the process of applying for accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums. The responsibilities for this position include: oversight of the collections; development of exhibits that reflect the expertise and research innovations of the College’s five departments and three institutes; writing and managing successful grant proposals to develop and care for the collections, exhibits, and technical projects; partnering with the Office of Development to coordinate development and revenue-generating activities to foster the museum’s growth; supervision of museum staff and volunteers; maintaining up-to-date web content; participation in the teaching and research mission of the College; creation of K-12 educational materials and programs; and community outreach.

The directorship is a fixed-term multiyear academic position open to all ranks, with excellent prospects for renewal beyond the initial appointment. The Director is expected to hold a terminal degree appropriate for their field of expertise at the time of appointment. Faculty appointment in one of the College’s academic departments (Geosciences, Geography, Meteorology and Atmospheric Science, Materials Science and Engineering, Energy and Mineral Engineering) is possible.

To apply, please upload a cover letter and concise vision statement for the EMS Museum and Gallery, a curriculum vitae, and the names and contact information of at least three referees. We will begin reviewing applications December 1, 2018 and will continue to receive and review applications until the position is filled. Details here: https://psu.jobs/job/83706

For additional information on the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences go to www.ems.psu.edu. Applicants should provide evidence, either woven through their application materials or as a separate diversity statement, of a commitment to fostering excellence in diversity and equity as well as engagement in creating an inclusive workplace environment.