ASPT Newsletter
December 1999
Edited by:
Kenneth R. Robertson
Illinois Natural History Survey
607 East Peabody Drive
Champaign, Illinois 61820 USA
Phone: 217 244-2171; Fax: 217 333-4949; e-mail: krrobert@uiuc.edu
The Annual Meeting of ASPT will be held 6-10 August 2000 as part of Botany 2000, organized by the Botanical Society of America. The meeting will be held at the Oregon Convention Center, Portland. The October 1999 mailing to members of ASPT included information about the meeting, including a Call for Symposia and a Call for Colloquia for the 2000 meeting. Additional information about the annual meeting is available on the ASPT homepage (http://www.sysbot.org/) and the BSA home-page (http://www.botany.org/).
Letter from ASPT President to Governor of Kansas
The Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) has developed a statement on the "Kansas State Board of Education Decision on the Education of Students in the Science of Evolution and Cosmology." They have encouraged all scientific societies to endorse this resolution and to communicate our support to the citizens and appropriate public officials in Kansas. ASPT members can view the document at the AAAS website. We have responded, as has the Botanical Society of America, with a letter directed to Kansas Governor Bill Graves which is reprinted below. Governor Graves is very much opposed to the Education Board's action, and these responses bolster his efforts to see the decision over-turned.
November 9, 1999
The Honorable Bill Graves, Governor
State Capitol, Second Floor
Topeka, KS 66612
Dear Governor Graves:
You recently received a copy of a statement directed to the Kansas Board of Education from our nation's prestigious scientific society, the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). The statement set out reasons why the Board's recent decision to halt teaching of evolution is unacceptable to all scientists and informed citizens. The American Society of Plant Taxonomists, a society of 1300 plant scientists in the United States studying the classification and evolutionary history of the world's flora, fully concurs with the AAAS statement and supports all efforts to secure the repeal of this unfortunate decision.
The Kansas Board of Education has failed to understand the vast extent to which evolutionary biology already plays a part in our lives, for example, by enhancing knowledge of human genetic diseases and their treat-ment, by aiding in conservation of rare plants and animals of the world, by guiding development of new pharmaceutical and food products, and even by enlightening us on sociological issues. The younger generation, especially, cannot afford to be ignorant of the directions of science today or how evolution-based studies will affect every aspect of our future lives. We urge, with AAAS, that the enlightened citizens of Kansas work vigorously to reverse the recent ill-advised action of your state's Board of Education so that fundamental concepts of science will be open to everyone for inquiry and learning.
Sincerely,
Shirley A. Graham, President
The American Society of Plant Taxonomists
William A. Weber, Professor Emeritis at the University of Colorado at Boulder, has been presented with the Edgar T. Wherry award by the North American Rock Garden Society. The award announcement (Rock Garden Quarterly 56: 298-299) cites Dr. Weber's "monumental contributions to botanical knowledge, and awareness locally, nationally, and internationally."
Lawrence A. Alice, has accepted a tenure-track position as Assistant Professor of Plant Systematics in the Department of Biology at Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green effective 16 August, 1999. Prior to this appointment he spent 17 months as postdoctoral associate at Virginia Tech working with Khidir W. Hilu on molecular systematics of Poaceae, especially subfamily Chloridoideae. His research focus continues to be molecular phylogenetics and hybridization in Rubus and Rosaceae. His new address is: Department of Biology, Western Kentucky University, 1 Big Red Way, Bowling Green, KY 42101. Phone: 270/745-7029; Fax: 270/745-6856; e-mail: lawrence.alice@wku.edu; URL: http://bioweb.wku.edu/faculty/alice.
Brian M. Boom, Vice President for Botanical Science and Pfizer Curator of Botany at the New York Botanical Garden, has been elected President of the Association of Systematic Collections. This is a two year term through May 2001.
Five Million Specimens at MOBOT: In a special ceremony held on 11 November 1999, the fifth million specimen was added to the Herbarium of the Missouri Botanical Garden. The specimen is of Calthaya argyro-phylla Chun and Kuan, a unique conifer belonging to the Pinaceae. The specimen was collected in Sichuan, China by Fu Li-kuo from the Institute of Botany, Beijing.
Persons in the job market should consult the Newsletter/ Current News section of the ASPT homepage <http://www.sysbot.org> for detailed descriptions. Below are very abbreviated listings of job notices that have appeared on that source; complete information needed for applications is not included here. For many positions, the deadlines have passed, and the positions may be filled. The listing here is primarily for readers who might be interested in which organizations have had openings in the general area of plant system- atics. The date the positions were posted is in square brackets [month/day/year].
Herbarium Curator/Plant Taxonomist, North Carolina State University: The Department of Botany welcomes applications for a 12-month herbarium curator (or plant taxonomist) position. This position has extension (70%) and research support (30%) responsibilities. The major duties of this individual will be to manage and improve the NC State University herbarium, identify plant specimens submitted by county extension agents and other clientele, take responsibility for outreach activities of the herbarium, and provide support for documenting research collections and for teaching activities requiring the herbarium. Qualifications: MS degree in Botany or related area with emphasis in plant systematic and previous experience in plant identification and herbarium management is required. Strong computer skills are required, with knowledge of Web design preferred. See the Department's Web site at <http://www.cals.ncsu. edu/botany/>. Application deadline: 30 December 1999. Proposed hire date: 15 January 2000. Send application materials to: Dr. Margaret Daub, Department of Botany, Box 7612, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27965-7612. [Posted 24 November 1999]
Assistant Curator, Missouri Botanical Garden: The Missouri Botanical Garden seeks an Assistant Curator to coordinate plant collecting programs in Gabon and Zambia to supply plant samples for pharmaceutical study, conduct research in plant systematics, prepare and oversee the preparation of systematic treatments, revisions, and/or scientific papers on plant groups from Gabon and Zambia, and manage the database information. Must be available to travel for extended periods and to attract financial support for research activities by preparing proposals and obtaining grants. Qualifications include a Ph.D. in botany or related field and up to seven years specialized experience in botanical systematics and related activities. Also requires familiarity with herbarium routines, botanical literature, and exceptional written communication skills. Spoken French ability desired. To apply, send curriculum vitae along with names and addresses of three references to: Missouri Botanical Garden, Human Resource Management, Attn: ACGZ, P.O. Box 299, St. Louis, MO 63166-0299; e-mail to <rland@admin.mobot.org>; fax to 314 577-9597. Review of résumés begins immediately. Position is open until filled. [Posted 23 November 1999]
Plant Systematics, Harvard University: The Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology at Harvard University seeks to appoint two plant systematists at the tenured level to develop programs of research and teaching in molecular and/or morphological systematics and allied fields. These positions, associated with the Harvard University Herbaria, may involve curatorial and general administrative responsibilities related to Harvard's large research collections. For further information about the department, see <http://www.oeb. harvard. edu> and for the Herbaria see <http:/www. herbaria. harvard.edu>. By 1 February 1999, send a letter of nomination or application including curriculum vitae, a statement of teaching and research interests, and the names and addresses of at least three professional references to: Donald H. Pfister, Harvard University Herbaria, 22 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138. [Posted 22 November 1999]
Oracle Developer Bioinformatics Group is seeking a research scientist who will be responsible for analyzing, designing, and developing Oracle databases/applications to support the bioinformatics effort. The candidate will also be responsible for maintaining the LifeTools DNA sequence DBMS (in Oracle), as well as, updating LifeTools and Oracle on an SGI 2000. This person should have programming experience in Perl, Java, and/or C in a Unix environment. Database administration experience, particularly in Oracle is also a plus. Also, desired is experience programming in a scientific environment, particularly molecular biology/bioinformatics. Experience developing Web/CGI applications and Oracle interfaces to applications is desired. The candidate should possess a B.S., M.S. or Ph.D. degree in the biological sciences, computer science, or related field. Interested persons should contact: Sam Saint, DMC, Fax: 609 584-9575; Voice 609 584-8733 Ext. 218; e-mail: <915608@ candseek.com>. [Posted 22 November 1999]
Two Positions in Plant Sciences, University of North Carolina at Asheville: Two tenure-track, full-time positions at the assistant professor level. Qualifications: Ph.D., a broad background in plant sciences, and a strong commitment to teaching and scholarship at the undergraduate level. Successful candidates will possess expertise in a subspeciality such as (1) cellular or physiological aspects of plant biology; or (2) systematics, genetics or plant ecology, with expertise in flora of the eastern US and experience in maintaining a herbarium. Duties: Recipients of the positions are expected to teach introductory biology for non-majors and plant biology, to develop courses in a subspeciality, and to develop a successful research program involving undergraduates. Applications: Submit 1) current curriculum vitae, 2) a brief statement of future research plans with potential for including undergraduates, 3) statement of undergraduate teaching philosophy, 4) copies (need not be original) of graduate transcripts, and 5) three letters of reference sent directly. Review of applications will begin 31 December 1999 and continue until the position is filled. See the homepage of the Department of Biology at <http://www.unca.edu/biology/>. Send application materials to: Dr. Gregg Kormanik, Chair, Dept. of Biology, CPO # 2440, University of North Carolina at Asheville, One University Heights, Asheville, NC 28804. [Posted 22 November 1999]
Faculty Positions in Evolutionary Biology, University of Oregon: The Department of Biology at the University of Oregon seeks applications for faculty positions in the field of evolutionary biology, of which at least one may be at the Senior level. Candidates with research programs involving both empirical and theoretical approaches are encouraged to apply, as are those with a molecular component to their research. Areas of special interest include evolutionary approaches to genetics, development, and ecology. New university resources and a National Science Foundation Igert award in evolution, development, and genomics provide substantial opportunities for programmatic expansion. See the Department's Web site at <http://biology. uoregon.edu/>. Applicants should submit a curriculum vitae, a statement of research and teaching interests, and three letters of recommendation to: Evolutionary Biology Search Committee, Department of Biology, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403-1210. To assure full consideration, applications must be received by 1 December 1999. [Posted 22 November 1999]
Curator of Botany, Vascular Plant Systematist, Illinois State Museum: The successful candidate will be responsible for developing an independent research program on vascular plant systematics and related themes. This individual will be responsible for curation and expansion of the herbarium, and will be expected to work cooperatively in participation interdisciplinary landscape history program and exhibition and educational programming in the sciences. This individual will also be expected to compete for external funds and maintain a record of research and frequent publications in peer-reviewed, nationally recognized journals. Ph.D. in botany or related discipline required. Candidate should have: 1) research experience in vascular plant systematics, biogeography, and ecology; 2) curatorial experience with herbarium collections; 3) strong commitment to and experience with interdisciplinary approaches and research; 4) at least five years experience in museum, university, or comparable setting; and 5) strong publication record and demonstrated grantsmanship. Knowledge of Holocene flora of the Midwestern United States required, and research interest in Midwestern United States preferred. Before 15 December 1999, send cover letter, curriculum vitae, and the names and addresses of three references to: Human Resource Office, Illinois State Museum, Spring and Edwards, Springfield, IL 62706-5000. Voice: 217 782-5969; fax: 217 782-1254; e-mail: <emontgom@ museum.state.il.us>. Technical questions should be addressed to: Dr. Bonnie W. Styles, Search Chair, Illinois State Museum, Research and Collections Center, 1011 East Ash, Springfield, IL 62703. Voice: 217 782-7475; e-mail: <styles@museum.state.il.us>. [Posted 17 November 1999.]
Director, Plant Molecular Biodiversity Studies, New York Botanical Garden: The New York Botanical Garden is soliciting applications from outstanding candidates for the directorship of a program in plant molecular biodiversity studies. As the leader of this new, enhanced research and training effort at the intersection of molecular and organismal biology, the appointee will also hold an endowed chair at the associate or full curatorial rank — the Lewis B. and Dorothy Cullman Curator of Plant Molecular Biodiversity Studies. The successful candidate will possess a Ph.D. and will be fully conversant with modern genomic approaches as applied to plant systematics or economic botany. Applicants should send a curriculum vitae and statement of research interests, and the names and contact information for at least three references to: George M. Milne, Jr., Ph.D., Chair Molecular Biodiversity Studies Search Committee, Attention: Human Resources Department, The New York Botanical Garden, Bronx, NY 10458. Position open until filled; review of applications to commence on 1 January 2000. [Posted 17 November 1999]
Manager of Collections Data, University of California at Berkeley: The Jepson Herbaria of the University of California at Berkeley seeks a Manager of Collections Data (Museum Scientist) (A&PS 1), University Herbarium, $32,048-$48,179, 11-342-30/PA. Application procedures are at <http://hrweb.berkeley.edu/JOBS/apply.htm>. Job duties: Develop, refine, and implement collections- and transactions-related databases and software. Maintain, grow, and improve existing herbarium databases and paperwork files. Compile collections management statistics. Respond to queries involving databases. Cross-train and serve as backup for the Manager of Vascular Plants for tasks such as processing loans and providing collections orientation for visiting researchers and volunteers. Oversee general herbarium hardware/software needs. Serve as herbarium Web master. Required qualifications: Experience with collections-oriented databases. Experience with curation of natural history museum specimens. Detailed knowledge of computers, operating system including UNIX, database software, HTML, and WWW interfaces. Knowledge of botany. Ability to work independently. Preferred qualifications: Bachelors or Masters degree in Botany. Experience with curation of herbarium specimens. Closing date: 11/26/99. Questions about the duties and other expectations for position can be directed to Barbara Ertter <ertter@uclink4. berkeley.edu> or Brent Mishler <bmishler@socrates. berkeley.edu>. [Posted 10 November 1999]
Chairperson, Department of Botany and Plant Pathology, Michigan State University: The College of Natural Science and the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at Michigan State University invite applications and nominations for the position of chairperson of the Department of Botany and Plant Pathology. Candidates must possess an established record of disting-uished scholarship, administrative experience, proven leadership and interpersonal skills, excellent communications abilities, and a broad vision of innovative programs in plant biology research, education and extension. Applicants should submit a complete curriculum vitae, and names, addresses and telephone numbers of five references. Every effort will be made to maintain confidentiality until the final slate of candidates is selected. Review of applications will begin 15 February 2000. Please send application materials to: Search Committee, Department of Botany and Plant Pathology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824-1312. Anticipated starting date will be January 2001. [Posted 3 November 1999]
Assistant Professor in Tropical Biology, Tulane University: The Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology at Tulane University invites applications for a tenure track position of Assistant Professor in tropical biology to build areas of specialization in evolutionary ecology, population genetics, conservation biology, biodiversity, and/or aquatic organisms or systems. Evidence of outstanding research, publications, and teaching ability will be the primary criteria for selection. Each candidate should submit a curriculum vitae, statement of research and teaching interests, selected publications, and three references by 10 December 1999 to: David C. Heins, Chair, Department of EEO Biology, 310 Dinwiddie Hall, Tulane University New Orleans, LA 70118-5698. For more information, see the Department's Web site at <http://www.tulane.edu/~eeob/faculty_search/>. [Posted 2 November 1999]
University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Department of Botany, Position in Bryology/ Lichenology: Applications are invited for a full-time tenure track position at the Assistant Professor level, commencing 1 July 2000, or on a mutually acceptable date. Minimum qualifications are a Ph.D, with experience in bryology or lichenology. Candidates should have a primary interest in systematics and demonstrable skills in ecology and/or molecular biology. Duties will include undergraduate teaching in the Botany and Ecology Programs as well as graduate teaching and supervision. The successful candidate will be expected to attract external funding to establish an active research program and support graduate students. Preference will be given to applicants with post-doctoral research experience, proven teaching ability, a strong publication record and superior communication skills. The salary range for the position is $42,524 to $65,040. Applicants should submit a curriculum vitae, statements of teaching philosophy and research interests, and reprints of up to five recent publications. They should also arrange for three letters of reference to be sent to: Dr. D. Punter, Chair of the Search Committee, Department of Botany, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada R3T 2N2. Phone: 204 474-9813 or 8132; fax: 204 474-7604; e-mail: <punterd@cc.umanitoba.ca>. The closing date for applications and references is 31 January 2000. [Posted 2 November 1999]
Assistant Curator/Systematic Botanist, The Field Museum, Chicago: Conduct specimen-based research in angiosperms and fungi and develop a strong field program by actively using the collections. Candidates who can make important contributions in a second interdisciplinary field such as biogeography, ethnobotany, neotropical diversity, or symbiosis/mutualisms will be given special attention. In addition to research, responsibilities include
curation of relevant collections, participation in public learning programs, development, and administrative and service activities. Ph.D. required. See the Department of Botany's Web site at <http://www.fmnh.org/research_ collections/botany/default.htm>. To apply, send a résumé and cover letter to: The Field Museum, Human Resources Department, 1400 South Lakeshore Drive, Chicago, IL 60605-2496. E-Mail <hr@fmnh.org>; fax: 312-665-7272. [Posted 1 November 1999]
Systematic Biologist, Duke University: Duke University is seeking a broadly trained systematic biologist with research interests in vascular plants, algae, or lichenized fungi for a tenure track position as Assistant Professor. We are especially interested in candidates who use a combination of collections-based, experimental, and molecular approaches, and whose interests promote interactive links with evolutionary biologists, molecular biologists, and ecologists. The successful candidate will be expected to develop an externally-funded research program, and to participate in teaching at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Applicants should provide 1) a CV; 2) a letter detailing accomplishments, future research plans, and teaching goals; 3) reprints of recent papers; and 4) arrange for three letters of reference to be sent directly to: Dr. A. Jonathan Shaw, Plant Systematics Search Committee, Department of Botany, 139 Biological Sciences Building, Box 90338, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708-0338. Phone: 919 660-7372. Review of applications will begin on 15 November 1999. [Posted 12 October 1999]
Plant Systematist, University of Wisconsin-Madison:The Botany Department, University of Wisconsin-Madison, invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in plant systematics to begin August 2000. We seek an individual who is broadly trained in modern systematic techniques, with phylogenetic interests that complement and extend the systematic/evolutionary expertise of the Department (Web site: <http://www.wisc.edu/botany>). Research interests could focus on areas such as speciation, hybridization, plant-animal interactions, molecular cytogenetics, genome evolution, or evolution of development. Postdoctoral experience would be desirable. Teaching duties include introductory botany and a course to strengthen the department's systematics section. Applicants should submit a curriculum vitae, a statement of research and teaching goals, selected reprints, and request three referees to send letters of recommendation to: Paul E. Berry, Systematics Search Committee, Botany Department, 132 Birge Hall, 430 Lincoln Drive, Madison, WI 53706. E-mail: <peberry@facstaff.wisc.edu>. To ensure competitive consideration, applications should be received by 15 December 1999. [Posted 6 October 1999]
Two Positions, Mycologist and Plant Systematist, University of Kansas: There two positions available in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Kansas. Mycologist: Assistant Associate Professor. Required qualifications: 1) Ph.D. in appropriate discipline that provides a strong background in botany or the biological sciences; 2) an active research program in one or more areas of whole-organism fungal biology (e.g., biodiversity, development, inter-organism interactions, physiology, etc.); 3) ability to teach a comprehensive, general mycology course and other courses including general biology as well as seminars in areas of expertise. Plant Systematist Assistant/Associate Professor and Assistant/Associate Curator. Required qualifications: 1) Ph.D. in appropriate discipline that provides a strong background in systematics and plant biology; 2) conduct an active research program in the systematics of plants emphasizing collections-based approaches and contemporary analytical methods; 3) serve as curator in the Division of Botany of the Natural History Museum and Biodiversity Research Center, participating in the care of the plant collections and contributing to the Museum's research, education, and service goals; 4) ability to teach courses in systematic botany, organismal diversity, and/or general biology and other core courses as well as seminars in areas of expertise. Preference will be given to individuals having demonstrated curatorial experience with botanical systematic research collections. Review of applications for both positions will begin 1 November 1999 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 is qualified to teach; 3) copies of selected publications and/or manuscripts; and 4) letters of reference from at least three persons to be submitted to: Ms. Berry Clemens, Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045-2106. Voice: 785 864-5889; fax: 785 864-5860; e- mail: <bclemens@falcon.cc.ukans.edu>, URL: <http://www.ukans.edu/~eeb>. [Posted 21 September 1999]
Field Botanist, Thad Cochran National Center for Natural Products Research, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi: Thad Cochran National Center for Natural Products Research is seeking qualified R & D staff to fill the following position located at the Center's medicinal plant garden and is in support of an existing program (three years). Starting date is negotiable and the position remain open until filled. Working independently, the successful Field Botanist applicant will collect plants and germplasm in support of lead compound discovery and medicinal plant crop improvement activities. Masters' degree or bachelors' degree with five years equivalent experience and knowledge of botany, plant taxonomy, plant identification, wild plant collection, plant sampling, and germ plasm acquisition required. Interested individuals should request position announcement and application materials from: Administrative Manager, Thad Cochran Research Center, Room 1025, The University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677. Phone (662) 915-7250; Web site: <http://www. olemiss.edu/depts/ncdnp/>. [Posted 21 September 1999]
Visiting Research Fellowship of up to Three Months Tenure, Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney: The Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney (Australia) invites applications for this Research Fellowship for the financial year 2000/2001. Funds of up to $Aus15,000 are available to cover one return economy airfare, accommodation and living expenses for a period of up to three months. The Fellowship must be taken up and completed between 1 July 2000 and 30 June 2001. The Fellowship is available for a research project contributing to one of the following programs at the Royal Botanic Gardens: systematics of vascular or non-vascular plants; ecology of NSW plant species or plant communities; or horticultural research. The work should involve collaboration with a staff member of the Royal Botanic Gardens. Applicants should send a proposed research program, curriculum vitae and the names of three referees to: Dr. Tim Entwisle, Royal Botanic Gardens, Mrs Macquaries Road, Sydney, NSW, 2000 by 29 October 1999. For further information and application form see <http://www.rbgsyd.gov.au/HTML/SCIENCE/Fellowships.htm>. For any other enquiries contact Tim Entwisle (fax +61 2 9251 4403; e-mail: <tim_entwisle@rbgsyd.gov.au>). [Posted 17 September 1999]
Plant Molecular Systematist, Western Michigan University: The Department of Biological Sciences at Western Michigan University seeks applications for a tenure-track Assistant or Associate Professor position in plant molecular systematics beginning Fall 2000. A Ph.D. degree and postdoctoral training are required. The development of an externally funded research program and contribution to the department's M.S. and Ph.D. programs are expected. Preference will be given to candidates with training in phylogenetic theory and analysis, experience with molecular laboratory methods, a broad knowledge of plant natural history and knowledge of local flora. Teaching responsibilities will include an undergraduate course in botany and a graduate course in the candidate's area of expertise. Review of applications will commence October 1, 1999 and will continue until the position is filled. Send letter of application for a specific position, curriculum vitae, statement of research and teaching plans, and three letters of reference to: Leonard Beuving, Ph.D., Chairman, Department of Biological Sciences, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI 49008. Fax: (616) 387-2849; e-mail: <leonard.beuving@wmich.edu>; <www: http://www. wmich.edu/bios/>. [Posted 17 September 1999]
FELLOWSHIPS, INTERNSHIPS, AND POST-DOCS
Nearly all announcements have been edited to conserve space — be sure to obtain complete descriptions before applying; many positions may have already been filled. Please see notice at top of "Job Opportunites."
Post Doctoral Fellow in Molecular Plant Systematics, National Herbarium of the Netherlands: Vacancy number: 66933. The successful applicant should have a Ph.D. in plant systematics and experience with modern techniques in molecular analysis such as PCR, AFLP, RFLP, and DNA sequencing and phylogenetic interpretation of molecular data, and a good publication record. He/she will carry out molecular research of a selected species group, preferably in the plant family Annonaceae fitting the research priorities of the National Herbarium. The present position is available for a contract of two years, but in case of proven excellence there are possibilities for tenure track leading to a longer contract and ultimately a permanent senior position. The salary being commensurate with the qualifications of the candidate and in accordance with Dutch national regulations to a maximum of Dfl 6,516,- gross per month. Further information about this position can be obtained from Prof. P. J. M. Maas, e-mail: <P.J.M.Maas@bio.uu.nl> or Prof. P. Baas, e-mail: <Baas@nhn.leidenuniv.nl> . Applications with a full CV and names of three referees should be addressed within two weeks to: Utrecht University, Faculty of Biology, Personnel Department, Attn. Ms. M. van Bart, PO Box 80084, 3508 TB Utrecht, The Netherlands. For more information on the Utrecht Herbarium, please see our Web site at <http://www.bio. uu.nl/~herba>.
Post Doctoral Fellow in Molecular Plant Systematics, National Herbarium of the Netherlands, University of Leiden: We invite applications for the position of a Post Doctoral Fellow in Molecular Plant Systematics vacancy number: 9-264/9997. The successful applicant should have a Ph.D. in plant systematics and experience with modern techniques in molecular analysis such as PCR, AFLP, RFLP, and DNA sequencing and phylogenetic interpretation of molecular data, and a good publication record. He/she will carry out molecular research of a selected species group, preferably in one of the cryptogamic phyla fitting the research priorities of the National Herbarium, to assess their relationships, and integrate the molecular results with information from morphology. The present position is available for a contract of two years, but in case of proven excellence there are possibilities for tenure track leading to a longer contract and ultimately a permanent senior position. The salary being commensurate with the qualifications of the candidate and in accordance with Dutch national regulations to a maximum of Dfl 6,516,- gross per month. Further information about this position can be obtained from Prof. P. Baas, <e-mail: Baas@nhn.leidenuniv.nl>. Applications with a full CV and names of three referees should be addressed within four weeks to: Leiden University, Faculty of Mathmatics and Natural Sciences, Personnel Department, Attn. Ms. C. Keizer, PO Box 9504, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands [Posted 1 November 1999]
Graduate Research Assistantship in Rare Plants, University of Mississippi: A Research Assistantship (RA) is available for a field-oriented student wishing to pursue an MS in plant science at the University of Mississippi. The project will involve an analysis of habitats in northern Mississippi that currently are, or historically were, sites for threatened, endangered and sensitive (TES) plant species. Besides plant taxonomy and ecology, the RA will gain experience in GIS databases, which will be used to investigate the value of remote sensing data as a predictive tool for locating TES plant habitat. A field guide to TES plant species of the region will be prepared. Applicants must have an undergraduate degree (preferably in biology or botany), must be accepted into the Graduate School, and should have some previous experience in plant taxonomy and/or ecology. Position available January 2000. For more information on this position and our program, write to: Dr. Lucile McCook, Department of Biology, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677. E-mail: bymccook@ olemiss.edu. [Posted 21 September 1999]
FUNDING AND AWARD OPPORTUNITIES
Karling Graduate Student Research Award: The purpose of this award is to support and promote graduate student research in the botanical sciences. To be eligible, one must be a member of the Botanical Society of America (BSA), a registered full-time graduate student, have a faculty advisor who is also a member of BSA, and not have won the award previously. Proposal Guidelines: The application shall consist of: 1) a Title page (must include: title of proposal, name of student, student's institutional and departmental affiliation, year of student's study, and student's sectional affiliation within BSA; 2) an Abstract; 3) a Narrative, which must include: a description of the research, including appropriate conceptual background, purpose or objective, brief outline of methodology, and potential contribution or significance to an area of the botanical sciences; 4) a Budget detailing how the funds would be used — the Abstract, Narrative, Budget and any tables or figures should not exceed five single-spaced pages; 5) a Bibliography, up to two pages; and 6) a Biographical Sketch, up to two pages. Proposals should include one inch margins all around and use a font size of not smaller than 12 point. In addition, proposals should be accompanied by a letter of support from the student's advisor. Award Level and Announcement: Each award provides $500. Submissions Proposals and supporting letters should be postmarked no later than 15 March 2000. Students should submit six (6) hardcopies of the complete proposal and arrange to have the letter of support sent to the Chair of the Karling Graduate Student Research Award Committee at the following address: George Yatskievych, BSA Karling Award Committee, Missouri Botanical Garden, P.O. Box 299, St. Louis, MO 63166. E-mail: <George. Yatskievych@mobot.org>. Members are encouraged to contribute to this fund. (Contact the BSA Manager for details).
Young Botanist Award, Botanical Society of America: The Botanical Society of America requests nominations for the Young Botanist recognition awards for 1999-2000. The purpose of these awards is to offer individual recognition to outstanding graduating seniors in the plant sciences and to encourage their participation in the Botanical Society of America. All nominees with strong records of achievement (at least a B average and other activities) will receive a Certificate of Recognition and have their names published in the Plant Science Bulletin. The top 25 nominees, whose selection will be based primarily on the accomplishments described in recommendation letters, will receive a Certificate of Special Achievement from the Society. Nominations should document the student's qualifications for the award (academic performance, research projects, and individual attributes) and be accompanied by two or more letters of recommendation from faculty who know the students well. The selections will be made by a committee chaired by the Past President, Carol Baskin. Nominations should be sent to: Dr. Carol Baskin, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506-0225 no later than 1 March 2000.
Lawrence Memorial Award: The Award Committee of the Lawrence Memorial Fund invites nominations for the 2000 Lawrence Memorial Award. Honoring the memory of Dr. George H. M. Lawrence, founding Director of the Hunt Institute for Botanical Documentation, the Award ($1,000) is given yearly to support travel for doctoral dissertation research in systematic botany or horticulture, or the history of the plant sciences, including literature and exploration. Major professors are urged to nominate outstanding doctoral students who have achieved official candidacy for their degrees and will be conducting pertinent dissertation research that would benefit significantly from travel enabled by the award. A student who wishes to be considered should arrange for nomination by his/her major professor; this may take the form of a letter which covers supporting materials prepared by the nominee. Supporting material should describe briefly but clearly the candidate's program of research and how it would be significantly enhanced by travel that the Award would support. Letters of nomination and supporting materials, including seconding letters, should be received by the Committee no later than 1 May 2000 and should be directed to: Dr. R. W. Kiger, Hunt Institute, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213-3890 USA. Phone: 412 268-2434.
At the Millennium, a Look Back and a Look Ahead, 22-24 March 2000, Washington, DC
From 22 to 24 March 2000, some of the country's most preeminent scientists will gather in Washington to review the major advances in organismal and integrative biology made during the last century, and look ahead to future goals and challenges. The meeting is being cosponsored by the American Institute of Biological Sciences (of which ASPT is a member organization) and the Smithsonian Institution. "Biology: Challenges for the New Millennium," which is also the 51st annual meeting of AIBS, will be held at the Smithsonian in Washington, DC. This unique millennial event includes speakers Stephen J. Gould, Daniel H. Janzen, Gene E. Likens, Lynn Margulis, Gordon Orians, Ghillean Prance, Marvalee Wake, and Edward O. Wilson, and also offers attendees the chance to meet these notable scientists. Interactive breakout sessions will follow each plenary to discuss recent advances and future challenges in the fields of Behavior, Biodiversity & Conservation, Development & Morphology, Ecosystems, Energetics, Environment, Evolution, Integration, Regulation, and Science & Society. ASPT has been invited to participate in the event by leading a breakout session. Other meeting features include a lecture by special guest Ernst Mayr, a workshop on the teaching of evolution (co-sponsored with the National Association of Biology Teachers), and a showing of the Smithsonian's new 3-D IMAX film on the Galapagos Islands. A limited number of poster submissions are also being accepted. Register online now and/or submit a poster abstract at http://www.aibs.org/
meeting 2000/index.html. For more information contact AIBS Meetings Manager Marilynn Maury at 703/834-0812, ext. 203, or mmaury@aibs.org.
Association of Systematics Collection Annual Meeting, Baltimore, Maryland, 14-15 May 2000
Information, Technology and Partnerships — Natural History Collections in the New Millennium. A national conference for all stakeholders in natural history institutions. For information and call for papers go to http://www.ascoll.org or contact: Gregory M. Mueller, Associate Curator, Mycology and Chair, Department of Botany, The Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60605-2496. E-mail: gmueller@fmnh.org; phone: 312 665-7840; fax: 312 665-7158. [
World Botanic Gardens Congress, Ashville, NC, 25-30 June 2000
In 2000, the American Association of Botanical Gardens and Arboreta (AABGA), Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI), and the Center for Plant Conservation (CPC) will co-host a fabulous coming together of public gardens and their staffs from around the world: the first ever World Botanic Gardens Congress at The North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, North Carolina, 25-30 June. The AABGA Annual Conference will be integrated with the Center for Plant Conservation Annual Meeting, the 6th International Botanic Gardens Conservation Congress, and meetings of many sister botanical garden associations from other countries. In 1998, the 5th International Botanic Gardens Conservation Congress, held in Cape Town, South Africa, drew more than 400 participants representing 55 countries. For U.S. and Canadian participants, the World Botanic Gardens Congress 2000 will be the experience of a lifetime — an opportunity to welcome and associate with colleagues from so many parts of the globe. For more information, contact: Nann Guthrie, Congress Coordinator, North Carolina Arboretum, 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way, Asheville, NC 28806-9315. Voice: 828 665-2492; fax: 828 665-5409; e-mail: <congress@ncarboretum.org>; <www:http://www.ncarboretum.org/congress2000/congress.htm>.
Botany 2000, 6-10 August 2000
The annual meeting of the Botanical Society of America will be held at the Oregon Convention Center, Portland. The following societies will be meeting in conjunction with BSA: American Bryological & Lichenological Society, American Fern Society, American Society of Plant Taxonomists, and International Association for Plant Taxonomy. Information on this meeting is available on the BSA homepage (http://www.botany.org/) or from Wayne Elisens, BSA Meetings Coordinator, Department of Botany and Microbiology, University of Oklahoma, 770 Van Vleet Oval, Norman, OK 73019; voice: 405 325-5923; Fax: 405 325-6710; e-mail: elisens@ou.edu. Posted 24 November 1999]
Third Ecuadorian Botanical Congress, 25-27 October 2000
FUNBOTANICA (Ecuadorian Foundation for Research and Development in Botany) and Herbario Nacional del Ecuador QCNE will host the Third Ecuadorian Botanical Congress in 25 - 27 October 2000 in Quito. For more information or to submit titles of presentations, go to the FUNBOTANICA Web site (http://pagina.de/funbotanica) and select Congresos from the menu or e-mail inquiries to (funbotanica@pagina.de). [Posted 24 October 1999]
Information provided by Janet R. Sullivan, Book Review Editor. The selection of reviewers and books to be reviewed in Systematic Botany are left to the discretion of the Book Review Editor. However, members of ASPT who are interested in serving as a reviewer should contact Janet Sullivan at <janets@christa.unh.edu>.
Atlas of Current and Potential Future Distributioins of Common Trees of the Eastern United States by L.R. Iverson, A.M. Prasad, B.J. Hale, and E.K. Sutherland. 1999. 245 pp. maps. Radnor, PA: General Technical Report NE-265, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northeastern Research Station. Copies available at no charge from: USDA Forest Service, Publications Distribution, 359 Main Road, Delaware, OH 43015. — This Atlas documents the current and possible future distribution of 80 common tree species in the Eastern U.S. and gives detailed information on environmental characteristics defining these distributions. Also included are outlines of life history characteristics and summary statistics for these species. [See below for www version.]
The Families of Flowering Plants of Australia: An Interactive Identification Guide edited by K.R. Thiele and L.G. Adams. 1999. Interactive software for Microsoft Windows 3.1, NT, 95, 98, or 2000 operating system. ISBN 0-643-06452-4 US$69.95 (CD-ROM). Collingwood, Victoria: CSIRO Publishing. — Review to appear in an upcoming issue of Systematic Botany. [Orders can be placed directly at <sales@publish.csiro.au or http://www.publish.csiro.au>.]
Flora of the Northeast: A Manual of the Vascular Flora of New England and Adjacent New York by D.W. Magee and H.E. Ahles. 1999. xxxi + 1,213 pp. illus. line drawings and county dot maps. ISBN 1-55849-189-9 $69.95 (hardcover). Amherst, MA: University of Massachusetts Press. — Unfortunately, this book is rife with incomplete, misleading, and incorrect information. There are several potentially useful features of this book (county dot-distribution maps, wetland site index, etc.), and the format would make the information useful and accessible to both students and professionals if it could be relied upon. It is sad that Harry Ahles did not live to complete the work necessary to make this the fine reference he had in mind.
Fundamentals of Molecular Evolution, Second Edition by Dan Graur and Wen-Hsiung Li. 2000. xiv + 481 pp. illus. ISBN 0-87893-266-6 $48.95 (paperback). Sunderland, MA: Sinauer Associates, Inc. — This book describes the dynamics of evolutionary change at the molecular level, the driving forces behind the evolutionary process, and the effects of the various molecular mechanisms on the long-term evolution of genomes, genes, and their products. It also provides basic methodological tools for comparative and phylogenetic analyses of molecular data from an evolutionary perspective. This new edition incorporates recent advances in information and technology.
The Illustrated Flora of Illinois: Ferns, Second Edition by R.H. Mohlenbrock. 1999. xv + 240 pp. illus. Line drawings and county dot maps. ISBN 0-8093-2255-2 $39.95 (hardcover). Carbondale: Southern Illinois University Press. — This book includes all the features familiar to users of The Illustrated Flora of Illinois series. The revision of Ferns includes 25 taxa of ferns that have been discovered in Illinois since publication of the first edition in 1967. Nomenclatural changes since 1967 have been incorporated, as well.
The Journals of the Lewis & Clark Expedition, Volume 12: Herbarium of the Lewis & Clark Expedition edited by G.E. Moulton. 1999. 352 pp., 239 illustrations, calendar of botanical specimens. ISBN 0-8032-2931-3 $75.00 (hardcover). Lincoln: University of Nebraska Press. — In all, 12 volumes and a comprehensive index are planned for this series, which will provide a complete record of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Volume 12 contains the most complete listing of the plant specimens cataloged by the expedition. Review to appear in an upcoming issue of Systematic Botany.
Late Cretaceous and Cenozoic History of North American Vegetation (North of Mexico) by Alan Graham. 1999. 370 pp. illus. ISBN 0-19-511342-X $68.00 (hardcover). New York: Oxford University Press. — An integrated account of the history of North American vegetation and paleo-environments over the past 70 million years. Included are discussions of modern plant communities, causal factors for environmental change, biotic response, and methodologies.
Plants of Central Asia. Plant Collections from China and Mongolia, Volume 1: Introduction, Ferns, Bibliography by V. I. Grubov. 1999. ix +188 pp. + two fold-out maps. ISBN 1-57808 060-6 $69.00 (hardcover). Enfield, NH: Science Publishers, Inc. — The first half of this book is an introduction, providing descriptions of the phytogeographic divisions of Central Asia. In the second half, the taxonomy of the plants of this region is provided as well as a bibliography relating to the flora and vegetation of Central Asia. It is expected that the complete series will be published in 20 volumes, of which 11 have been published in Russian.
A Primer of Population Genetics, Third Edition by Daniel L. Hartl. 1999. xvii + 221 pp. illus. ISBN 0-87893-304-2 $29.95 (paper). Sunderland, MA: Sinauer Associates, Inc. — This volume provides an introduction to population genetics for students and professionals in biology and related fields. The four chapters of the book address genetic variation, the causes of evolution, molecular population genetics, and the genetic architecture of complex traits.
Proceedings of the Fourteenth International Diatom Symposium: Tokyo, Japan, September 2-8, 1996 edited by Shigeki Mayama, Masahiko Idei, and Itaru Koizumi. 1999. xii + 638 pp. illus. ISBN 3-87429-401-3 380.00DM US$217.00 (hardcover). Koenigstein: Keoltz Scientific Books. — The editors have chosen 45 papers to represent the larger symposium. The papers are organized into the following categories: taxonomy and systematics, growth and life cycle, ecology, paleoenvironments, and stratigraphy and genealogical evolution. [Orders can be placed directly at <www.koeltz.com>.]
Synthesis of the North American Flora, Version 1.0 by J.T. Kartesz and C.A. Meacham. 1999. Interactive software for Microsoft Windows 3.1, NT, 95, 98, or 2000 operating system. ISBN 1-889065-05-6 $495.00 (CD-ROM). Chapel Hill, NC: North Carolina Botanical Garden in cooperation with The Nature Conservancy, Natural Resources Conservation Service, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service. — Review to appear in an upcoming issue of Systematic Botany. [Order from North Carolina Botanical Garden, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, CB #3375, Totten Center, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-3375.]
A Taxonomic Treatment of the Palm Subtribe Attaleinae (tribe Cocoeae) by S.F. Glassman. 1999. 324 pp. + 217 illus. ISBN 0-252-06786-X $27.50 (paper). Champaign: Illinois Biological Monographs 59, University of Illinois Press. — This is the most comprehensive presentation available of the taxonomy of the complicated neotropical palm group Attaleinae. Sidney Glassman's valuable compilation takes the place of earlier piecemeal taxonomies on this group, which has attracted considerable attention due to its economic importance, large stature, complex morphology, paucity of collections for a number of species, and apparent predilection to form hybrids. Enhanced by extensive notes from herbarium, field, and laboratory studies along with numerous photographs charts, and other illustrations, Glassman's taxonomy provides an important baseline for future work on the Attaleinae.
The Torner Collection of Sessé & Mociño Biological Illustrations compiled by J.J. White, R. McVaugh, and R.W. Kiger. 1998. Software for Web browser, preferably version 4 or higher of Netscape Navigator or Microsoft Internet Explorer. ISBN 0-913196-60-6 $40.00 (CD-ROM). Pittsburgh, PA: Hunt Institute for Botanical Documentation and the Carnegie Mellon CD Press. — This CD-ROM allows users to explore the collection of 1989 watercolor drawings (about 1800 are botanical) from the 1787-1803 Spanish Royal Expedition to New Spain. Artwork can be found by accession number, subject, transcription, or notes. Also included are a catalog and historical introduction. [Orders can be placed directly at <http://huntbot. andrew.cmu.edu>.]
There are many links on other web sites (start with http://www.csdl.tamu.edu/FLORA/tfp/tfplinks.html) to pages that have information applicable to plant taxonomy. On this current page, we will add new sites as they come to our attention. If you have a new or revised Web site that may be of interest to the membership of ASPT, please send the URL address to the editor of the Newsletter. This section is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all sites useful to plant taxonomists.
A Climate Change Atlas for 80 Forest Tree Species of the Eastern United States [spatial database], by Anantha M. Prasad and Louis R. Iverson, USDA Forest Service, Northeastern Research Station, Delaware, Ohio 43015, USA, is at this URL: http://www.fs.fed.us/ne/delaware/atlas/. This site contains a tremendous amount of information including distribution maps and tables for different climate change scenarios, life-history and disturbance attributes, ecological attributes, forest type maps and sorted list of species importance values by state/county for different climate change scenarios, and more for 80 species in the eastern half of the United States (east of the 100th meridian). Under book notices above, see "Atlas of Current and Potential Future Distributioins of Common Trees of the Eastern United States."
Abstracts for articles published in the last 5 volumes of Systematic Biology (Volume 44, 1995 through Volume 48, 1999) are available through the web site for the Society for Systematic Biologists. The URL is: http://www.utexas.edu/depts/systbiol/.
Results from the five-year "Deep Green" project of the Green Plant Phylogeny Research Coordination Group were presented at the 16th International Botanical Congress in St. Louis. Several Web sites have added information about the "Deep Green Project: Association of Systematic Collections; the journal Science; the web site "about.com" has two features, the first an overview of the project and the second an interview with Brent Mishler. To hear a radio interview with Brent Mishler on National Public Radio's program All Things Considered, see http://www.npr.org/. The main page of the Green Plant Phylogeny Research Coordination Group is at http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/bryolab/greenplantpage.html.
Images of Vascular Plant Type Specimens at The New York Botanical Garden are now live! Approximately 2400 high-resolution images of herbarium speci-mens from the families Annonaceae, Ericaceae, Lecythidaceae, and New World Rutaceae can be found by searching our catalog or by viewing the lists of taxa at http://www.nybg.org/bsci/hcol/vasc/. Eventually, all of NYBG's 75,000 vascular plant type specimens will be imaged and viewable through our on-line catalog. Images of Cyperaceae, Elaphoglossum, and Scrophulariaceae types will be added to our catalog in the near future. A full description of the project, including a manual (in PDF) for imaging plant specimens can be found at: http://www.nybg.org/bsci/herbarium_imaging/. The New York Botanical Garden acknowledges the Xerox Foundation for funding and students of the Biomedical Photographic Communications Department of the Rochester Institute of Technology for technical assistance. Please direct any questions or comments about NYBG's imaging project to Gord Lemon (glemon@nybg.org).
Please e-mail suggestions for Web sites of interest to the members of ASPT to: <krrobert@uiuc.edu>. [Kenneth R. Robertson, Illinois Natural History Survey]
8 December 1999