The central theme of The School for Field Studies (SFS) Panama study abroad program is “islands as a delicate system,” with emphasis on the resources of Panama’s spectacular coastal and marine environments. Students will explore several key interfaces: human and natural systems, terrestrial and marine ecosystems, and conservation and development. The goal of this undergraduate study abroad program is to assess the state of the archipelago’s fragile natural habitats, define the main environmental issues, and understand the community goals in natural resource management. Our ultimate goal is to help islanders maintain balance between people and nature in this fragile ecosystem.
Course Overview:
The Tropical Coastal Ecology is a course that will provide fundamental knowledge necessary to understand the main ecological processes and interactions in a fragile marine island ecosystem. Basic ecological principles will be paired with field observation and measurement to understand the interdependencies of species, populations, communities and ecosystems in the coastal and marine environment, and with particular attention to the management of resources and environments for consumptive and non-consumptive use.
Our studies will focus on the benthic, neritic, and on-shore coastal environments of Bocas del Toro with emphasis on coral reef, seagrass, beach and intertidal zone, and mangrove habitats. Coastal terrestrial environments, such as swamps, streams and forest will also be considered for their interactions with the marine environment. We will also study the biology, ecology and behavior of important marine and coastal species in the area. These include the leatherback and hawksbill sea turtles, reef fish, lobster, and marine mammals. Finally, we will consider the impact of anthropogenic disturbance and global climate change to the fragile island ecosystem and the habitats and species upon which the livelihood and well-being of island residents depends.
The successful candidate will provide high quality, modern and experiential teaching in critical environmental issues in an interdisciplinary curriculum and participate fully in the implementation of the program’s research plan that addresses these issues. The publication of research results is critical. The successful candidate will work closely with the other program lecturers to deliver an interdisciplinary program through education and research in a field setting. Each lecturer is expected to provide high quality, inquiry-based teaching and will lead students in Directed Research projects defined in the program’s research plan.
Applicants are encouraged to review the course syllabi and programs descriptions on the SFS website: www.fieldstudies.org/panama
Resident Lecturer - Duties and Responsibilities:
Program
A. Teaching
- As part of an interdisciplinary teaching team, teach one course and co-teach 1/3 of a second course on undergraduate research (minimum 60 instructional hours per semester)
- Plan, revise, and effectively deliver a challenging, problem-based interdisciplinary curriculum
- Organize lectures and prepare course materials in a timely and professional manner
- Adhere to the daily academic schedule
- Prepare, administer, and grade assignments, quizzes, mid-term and final examinations
- Supervise and mentor 8 to 10 students in Directed Research projects
- Actively support and counsel students on academic issues
- Maintain records of lectures, exams, quizzes, readings, field experiences and homework assignments
B. Research
- Conduct designated research according to the program’s research plan
- Identify appropriate components of the program’s research plan suitable for student Directed Research projects
- Prepare research results for clients and partners and for publication and conference presentations
- Assist in the creation and implementation of program research policies, priorities, budgets as required
- Follow data management, record keeping, and reporting systems
- Present research findings at local and international conferences (budget dependent)
C. Administration
- Participate in planning activities prior to the program start and in review and analysis following students' departure
- Participate in training activities for new program staff prior to and during the program, particularly interns
- Participate in and lead parts of the orientation and re-entry components of the program presented to students at the beginning and end of each program period
- In cooperation with other program staff, provide day-to-day coordination of interns as delegated by the program director
- Participate in resolving group management issues and student discipline problems
- Participate in preparation of the final reports, academic handbook revisions and other required reports
- As requested by the center director, assist with other logistical, group management and administrative tasks
D. Safety & Risk Management
- Take responsibility, as an individual and as a member of the program faculty/staff team, for the safety of all program participants
- Participate in the review and revision of program risk assessment and management plans
- Recommend and review policies and procedures needed to manage risks
- Know the emergency procedures plan for the field station, including evacuation plan
- Participate in the safety portions of the on-site orientation and conduct safety briefings for students and/or staff
- Complete incident reports when appropriate and contribute to safety audits
- Comply with, actively model, and enforce all SFS and center policies and procedures
- Ensure that first aid certifications are kept up to date via periodic courses offered by SFS between program sessions
E. Daily Center Life
- Frequently take meals with the students
- On a rotating basis, take responsibility for program-specific "staff of the day" duties
- Take part in, and occasionally lead community outreach, center upkeep projects, social and field activities
- At the request of the Center Director, serve as caretaker for station during program breaks and center rentals
- Drive standard transmission vehicles and boats as needed
- Adhere to, actively model and enforce all SFS and center policies and procedures
Minimum qualifications
- Ph.D. and university-level teaching experience in Coastal or Marine Ecology, or related field
- Field research experience, preferably in the fields of Invertebrate Ecology and Reef Fish Ecology; Tropical Coastal Zone Ecology; Marine Protected Areas; Coral Reef Monitoring; Marine Policy Formulation
- Demonstrated ability to work as part of an interdisciplinary teaching and research team
- Demonstrated organizational management experience in such areas as project management, conducting academic and/or research programs, or heading environmental issue-driven projects, programs or organizations
- Minimum three years’ experience in university teaching as instructor of record or teaching assistant
- Knowledge of U.S. higher education system
- Track record of research publications or presentations
- Demonstrated commitment to environmental issues
- Fluency in English, spoken and written
- Demonstrated experience working in collaboration with small island governments and communities
- Knowledge of Caribbean island life, including culture, history, and governmental operations
- Residential student group management and risk management experience highly desirable
- Current First Aid certification
- Experience living at a field station preferred
- Scuba qualification, driver’s license and boat driver’s license
- Command of Spanish
Other Expectations
- Willingness to work flexible hours and live on site at the field station with a small team of permanent staff, groups of US undergraduate students and visiting researchers or programs
- Participation in all program activities
- Represent SFS at local and international meetings and conferences
- At all times, work to ensure good relations between the SFS and the local community
Compensation/Benefits
This is a 10 month contract position starting in mid-summer, 2016 and ending in mid-May, 2017 with the possibility for continuance for the 2017-2018 academic year, depending on successful completion of duties and sufficient student enrollment. Salary is dependent on experience and qualifications. A comprehensive benefits package and housing stipend is included.
Location:
Center for Tropical Island Biodiversity Studies - Isla Colon, Bocas del Toro, Republic of Panama
Reports to:
The Center Director and the Office of Academic Affairs
Start Date:
As early as July 2016, but can be flexible. Shorter-term engagements also may be considered
To Apply: Submit a cover letter outlining relevant experiences and addressing the qualifications and expectations stated above and curriculum vitae online at https://fieldstudies.catsone.com/careers/index.php?m=portal&a=details&jobOrderID=7523488
