The GCC WEEKLY | November 26, 2024 | |
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Collaboration in Action: Reflecting on the GCC Faculty Retreat
On Friday, November 15, the Global Change Center hosted its annual faculty retreat at the Skelton Conference Center, bringing affiliates together for an afternoon of reflection, strategic planning, and connection. GCC Director Dr. Bill Hopkins kicked off the event with the State of the GCC presentation, highlighting the center’s progress over the past nine years and previewing opportunities on the horizon, including integration with the Northeast Climate Adaptation Science Center (NE CASC). Facilitated discussions led by Erin Ling encouraged collaborative brainstorming on how to leverage new resources to advance research goals. The retreat concluded with a reception, fostering interdisciplinary connections and energizing participants for the GCC’s milestone 10th year.
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Environmental Data Position at Virginia Tech
The College of Science (COS) at Virginia Tech invites applications for a tenure-track position in environmental data science, focusing on invasive species research. This position will develop predictive models to understand and manage invasive species, offering opportunities to explore the factors shaping their spread and impact. The successful candidate will join the Global Change Center’s Invasive Species Collaborative, a transdisciplinary initiative aimed at developing innovative research solutions to the impacts of invasive species. Apply by December 23.
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Virginia Tech Teaching Fellows Pilot Program
Applications for the VT Teaching Fellows Pilot Program are now open! Graduate students at Virginia Tech are invited to apply for Adjunct Faculty positions through this program. Northern Virginia Community College (NVCC) has created "Invitation Only" application links specifically for VT students, which must be accessed through the file linked below. This file includes step-by-step application instructions, guidelines, and all position-specific links. For questions about the NVCC application process, contact Dr. Cathleen Cogdill, and for inquiries related to VT Co-Op or CPT, reach out to Dr. Barbara Hoopes.
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Diagnostic Lab Technician Position in Charlotte, NC
Bartlett Tree Experts, a nationwide tree and shrub care company, is hiring a Diagnostic Lab Technician for their research and diagnostic lab in Charlotte, NC. This entry-level position focuses on identifying pests, diseases, and abiotic issues affecting woody ornamentals. Responsibilities include running routine testing procedures, maintaining lab functions, and communicating regularly with lab staff. The ideal candidate will thrive under seasonal pressure, perform repetitive tasks efficiently, and have a strong interest in plant diseases impacting trees and landscapes.
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Simons Early Career Investigator Awards
The Simons Foundation is now accepting applications for its Early Career Investigator Awards in Aquatic Microbial Ecology and Evolution. These awards aim to support early-career researchers in the fields of microbial ecology, biogeochemistry, and evolution in marine or freshwater systems. The deadline for letters of intent (LOI) is January 23, 2025. Finalists will have the opportunity to submit full applications for grants of $270,000 per year for two years. Eligible applicants must hold a PhD and be in a tenure-track or equivalent independent position.
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Mona Abadian
Sustainable Biomaterials
| Mona Abadian combines her background in Fiber Science, Textile Engineering, and sustainability with her passion for creating environmentally-friendly solutions. After completing her master’s at Amirkabir University of Technology, she worked as a sustainability leader at Nestlé Iran, focusing on reusable packaging and reducing carbon emissions. Now, Mona is studying the circular management of polyurethane foam (PUF) as part of her interdisciplinary research. Through the Interfaces of Global Change (IGC), she aims to enhance her ability to approach global challenges and improve her communication skills for collaborative sustainability work in academia and industry. | |
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Thanksgiving Break Lunch for Graduate Students
Staying on campus for Thanksgiving? Join fellow graduate students for a warm lunch of chili (with chicken, vegetarian/vegan/GF options), dessert, and conversation! The Thanksgiving Break Lunch will be held on Tuesday, November 26, from 11:30 AM to 1 PM in the GLC Multipurpose Room. Please RSVP to ensure there is enough food.
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Winter Lights Festival in Downtown Blacksburg
Celebrate the season with the 2024 Holiday Lights, Winter Nights Annual Parade and Festival in Downtown Blacksburg on Friday, December 6. Experience the magic of the holidays with a festive gift market, TubaChristmas, a tree lighting ceremony, carolers, and a holiday parade down Main Street. Admission is free.
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Forest Restoration After Natural Disasters
In this episode of Virginia Tech’s "Curious Conversations," Dr. Carrie Fearer, GCC faculty affiliate and expert in forest health, discusses the impacts of natural disasters on forest ecosystems. She explores how storms and disturbances influence forest succession, the critical role of native species, and the importance of decomposition in maintaining healthy forests. Dr. Fearer also highlights how restoration efforts following catastrophic events can help correct past environmental mistakes, such as the spread of invasive species.
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A Review of In the Footsteps of Darwin
GCC postdoc affiliate Dr. Orlando Schwery recently reviewed the board game, In the Footsteps of Darwin for Science Magazine. The game invites players to step into the shoes of junior naturalists helping Darwin complete his seminal work On the Origin of Species. Set 20 years after Darwin’s voyage on the HMS Beagle, players sail the high seas, discover new species, and contribute to scientific theories. In his review, Dr. Schwery highlights the game's combination of strategic gameplay and scientific discovery, making it a fun and educational experience.
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Study Reveals Decline in Global Freshwater Levels
A recent study using data from NASA-German satellites has revealed a significant drop in global freshwater levels beginning in May 2014, continuing to remain low ever since. Researchers suggest this decline may signal a shift toward a drier phase for Earth's continents, exacerbated by factors such as drought and increased groundwater use. Dr. Susanna Werth, a GCC faculty affiliate and remote sensing scientist, comments on the uncertainties surrounding the connection to global warming, emphasizing the complexity of predicting future climate impacts. The study highlights concerns about the increasing strain on freshwater resources, with far-reaching consequences for agriculture, communities, and ecosystems.
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Microplastics Found in Dolphin Breath
In a groundbreaking study, collaborators from Virginia Tech, the College of Charleston, The Citadel, and the University of South Carolina have detected microplastic particles in the exhaled air of wild bottlenose dolphins. Led by Dr. Leslie Hart and Dr. Miranda Dziobak, the research highlights the potential health risks of inhaled microplastics for marine wildlife, with dolphins serving as early indicators of environmental change. Dr. Austin Gray, GCC faculty affiliate and assistant professor of biological sciences, co-authored the study, emphasizing the urgency of understanding microplastic exposure in humans. The study underscores inhalation as a significant but often overlooked route of microplastic contamination.
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Do you have an opportunity or announcement you'd like to share with the GCC community? Send us an email!
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