Internal Deadline: January 24, 2025

Please let me know about your intention to apply by Jan 15h, 2024 

Indigenous Graduate Fellowship (IGF)

The Indigenous Graduate Fellowship (IGF) offers multi-year fellowships to Indigenous Master’s and Doctoral students in all disciplines. Award winners are selected on the basis of academic merit through an annual competition, administered by the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies. Opportunities are also available for (i) Indigenous PhD students in their fourth year to apply for a fifth year of funding and (ii) for research Master’s and PhD students to apply for research funding, which are also outlined below.

Please note that a distinct application deadline has been set for candidates, February 14, 2025 at 4:00PM PT, and the graduate program nomination deadline to follow two weeks later.

Indigenous Graduate Fellowships competition

Each fellowship provides a stipend of $25,000 per year for Doctoral students or a stipend of $17,500 per year for Master’s students. Additionally, IGF recipients are eligible to receive tuition funding. Tuition funding will not exceed the current value of the standard Doctoral or Master’s degree tuition fees. In all cases, continued fellowship support is conditional on satisfactory academic progress. Recipients of Master’s fellowship funding must re-apply to be considered for Doctoral funding.

All Indigenous students are eligible to apply, but priority is given to Indigenous students whose traditional territory falls, at least in part, within Canada. This includes Canadian First Nations, Métis or Inuit students and may include Indigenous students from Alaska and other states of the USA. The University may request further information to confirm Indigenous eligibility. Since January 2023, the IGF is also open to students in professional and coursework-only Master’s programs.

• Application Deadline: February 14 2025, at 4:00PM PT
• Graduate Program nomination deadline: March 3 2025, at 4:00PM PT
• For complete application and nomination details, see
  https://www.grad.ubc.ca/awards/indigenous-graduate-fellowships

Note: On the IGF Nomination Form, graduate programs will be asked if they intend to recommend their doctoral nominees for funding from the 4YF program. If so, and the nominee is subsequently ranked high enough to be offered IGF funding, the applicant will receive a “4YF-I” (same value as 4YF, $18,200) plus a $6,800 per year IGF stipend top-up for the duration of the 4YF-I, to a total value of $25,000 per annum. In such cases, the 4YF-G returns to graduate program and may be offered to a different student as the 4YF-I is centrally funded by G+PS. (Note: if the nominee is not ranked high enough to be offered IGF funding, the graduate program will be responsible for providing 4YF funding from their existing 4YF allocation.)

IGF 5th Year Award

Indigenous PhD students in their 4th year are able to apply for 5th year funding through the IGF 5th Year Award. The award, valued at $25,000 per annum plus tuition, is awarded on the recommendation of the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies to full-time Indigenous doctoral students from all disciplines to fund their 5th year of study, where research involves community-engaged methodologies and approaches.

IGF Research & Engagement Award

Funding in support of research and travel expenses for Indigenous graduate students has been made available through the IGF Research & Engagement Award to current holders of the Indigenous Graduate Fellowship. Recipients of the award will be engaged in work that contributes directly or indirectly to community engagement and relationship building with Indigenous communities. Successful candidates will receive a minimum of $3,000 for Master’s students and a minimum of $5,000 for Doctoral students.  Additional funding may be offered depending on budget availability.

• Application deadline for both awards: February 14 2025, at 4:00PM PT

For information on eligibility and application procedures, including application forms, please consult the G+PS webpages linked above. For questions, please contact Bree Wilson at bree.wilson@ubc.ca.

The UBC Sustainability Scholars Program is again offering UBC graduate students the opportunity to work on funded sustainability and climate action related internships. Projects begin May 1, 2025. Current UBC graduate students from all academic disciplines and all UBC campuses are encouraged to apply.

Further information on the available internship projects can be found on the Sustainability Scholars Program web page. Applications close at 11:59 pm Sunday January 26, 2025.

I am also holding information sessions on January 15 and 16. Details about the application deadline and the information sessions are below.

I would greatly appreciate if you would please circulate the details provided below to your grad students. If you have any questions about the program or projects, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Thank you for your help in notifying your graduate students about these opportunities!

Warm wishes for the holidays!

Karen Taylor

P.S. If you would like to be removed from my circulation list or if this should go to someone else in your unit, please let me know.

**********

 CALL FOR APPLICATIONS – UBC SUSTAINABILITY SCHOLARS (PAID SUMMER INTERNSHIPS) 

The UBC Sustainability Hub is pleased to offer UBC graduate students the opportunity to work on funded sustainability internship projects.

We are currently accepting applications for 50 internships that will commence May 1, 2025. Current UBC graduate students from all academic disciplines are encouraged to confirm the eligibility requirements and apply.

Successful candidates work under the guidance of a mentor at one of our partner organizations, and are immersed in real world learning where they can apply their research skills and contribute to advancing sustainability and climate action across the region. Each Scholar receives $31.25 per hour to complete 250 hours of work.

For more information on the available projects and to apply, visit the Sustainability Scholars Program website.

Applications will be accepted until 11:59 pm Sunday January 26.

We also appreciate your help in circulating this notice to anyone in your grad student network that may be interested!

SUSTAINABILITY SCHOLARS PROGRAM INFORMATION SESSIONS

Are you interested in . . .

• applying your research skills to solving real-world sustainability questions and challenges?
• getting paid while gaining valuable professional work experience?
• developing applied sustainability skills and knowledge under the guidance of a mentor?
• building a professional network of sustainability practitioners?

 

If this describes you, please attend the Sustainability Scholars Program information session on January 15 at noon or January 16 at 5:00 pm. At the January 16 session representatives from several of our partner organizations will speak about the kinds of opportunities Scholars can have while working in the program. We will also have former scholars and mentors there to answer your questions about what you can expect as a Scholar and what kinds of benefits the program offers in terms of skills and job prospects.

 

Details and to register: https://sustain.ubc.ca/scholars-program-events

 

 

– – – – – – – – – –

Karen Taylor  MA (she, her)
Senior Manager, Sustainability Scholars & Strategic Implementation | Sustainability Hub
The University of British Columbia | Vancouver Campus | Musqueam Traditional Territory
2343 – 2260 West Mall | Vancouver BC | V6T 1Z4 Canada
Phone 604 822 9362 | karen.taylor@ubc.ca | https://sustain.ubc.ca/scholars

We finalized next term’s IBioS Graduate Student Seminar Series, and we hope you can share the schedule below with the students in your departments.

Upcoming Seminars: (see full seminar description here:  https://ibios.ubc.ca/events-2/upcoming-events/)

Research Blitz: Grad Students Share Their Research on Biodiversity Conservation

• January 14th | 3:30-4:30
• March 4th | 3:30-4:30

Professional Development

• Your Future, Your Plan: Reflecting on an Individualized Development Plan, January 20 | 12-1
• Research to Impact – Skills, Tools and Practices for Knowledge Exchange and Mobilization, March 10 | 12-1
• Reflecting on Truth and Reconciliation with Dr. Warren Cardinal McTeague, March 25 | 3:30-4:30
• Public Scholars Initiative – Information Session, April 7 | 12-1

Career Paths in Conservation

• Elizabeth Nelson’s Path to Becoming a Science Advisor for Parks Canada, January 28 | 3:30-4:30
• Tahia Devisscher’s Path to Nature-Based Solutions Research, February 10 | 12-1
• Cole Burton’s Path to Mammal Ecology Research, February 25 | 3:30-4:30
• Emily Rubidge’s Path to Marine Biodiversity Research, April 22 | 3:30-4:30

 

Registration link: https://ubc.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_e9RaC45XK6YOSlo

 

We also created a flyer that can be printed and hung on bulletin boards, shared in meetings, and distributed to students.

 

I appreciate your support. Please let me know if you have any questions.

 

Kindly

Conny

 

Conny Scheffler, (hear it pronounced) Dr. rer. nat. (she, her, hers)

Program Coordinator, Interdisciplinary Biodiversity Solutions Collaboratory (IBioS)

AERL 443, 2202 Main Mall, Vancouver BC V6T 1Z4

conny.scheffler@ubc.ca | ibios.ubc.ca

Thursdays 1400-1700, starting Jan 9 2025                                                                  Kai M. A. Chan, @KaiChanUBC

 

Ecosystem Services (RES 508):

Exploring Value, Influence, and Transformation

How do ecosystems provide clean water, sustain livelihoods, and inspire cultural connections? How can these benefits guide decision-making in a world shaped by diverse values, worldviews, and relationships with nature?

In RES 508, we’ll explore the concepts of ‘ecosystem services’ and ‘nature’s contributions to people,’ integrating perspectives from ecology, economics, ethics, and other social sciences. This interdisciplinary course delves into the debates, tools, and transformative possibilities of a field at the crossroads of science, policy, and society.

Through weekly seminars and a collaborative project with a partner organization, students will analyze real-world cases and grapple with tough questions: Can the concept of ecosystem services break free from colonial, reductionist roots to become a force for system change?

Dr. Kai Chan brings over two decades of experience in these fields with The Natural Capital Project, People and Nature, IPBES (the Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services), and more. Join us on a provocative journey into the science and politics of valuing nature—and reimagining its role in our future.

Learning Objectives and Outcomes

Students who complete this course will be able to:

1. Explain to policymakers and lay people how ecosystems are crucial for human well-being and relevant to many policies;
2. Communicate how social and environmental change might affect several ecosystem services (and thereby human well-being), and how this is known;
3. Critically and constructively review academic papers and research reports pertaining to ecosystem services;
4. Constructively critique programs, policies, and institutions that impact ecosystem services, based on efficiency, equity, and sustainability;
5. Advocate and support their views on the pros and cons of economic valuation of ecosystem services as alternative inputs to decision-making.

 

Course Description

Through participatory lectures, discussions, debates, role-plays, and workshops, students will:

• Learn the history of thinking on ecosystem services and new developments in policy;
• Characterize the ecological dynamics underpinning numerous key services, and their relationship with biodiversity conservation;
• Critique environmental policies to increase benefits relative to costs, or equity;
• Identify opportunities for profit from ecosystem services, and the feasibility of creating markets for them;
• Describe the opportunities and impediments to laws, regulations, and programs for ecosystem services;
• Evaluate decision-making processes and economic valuation in light of social, cultural, and ethical considerations;
• Apply these skills individually and in teams, demonstrating the learning objectives and outcomes through assignments and presentations, including a group final paper.

E.S. Cropconsult Ltd. Supervisor Position

Positions available: 2

Effective: December 1, 2024

Closing: January 31, 2025

Position start date: February-March 2025 (negotiable)

Your Opportunity:

E.S. Cropconsult provides professional consulting in pest and disease monitoring to local farmers and have expert knowledge of local agricultural challenges. At present, we provide services for 10,000+ acres of 12 agricultural commodities of perennial and annual field crops. As an employer, E.S. Cropconsult is committed to providing a high level of expertise in the agriculture industry, specializing in pest biology and management. In addition, we offer unique opportunities for personal growth, such as developing leadership and management skills. We are a small, woman-owned and operated company that values integrity, career progression, and inclusivity within the workplace.

We have an exciting opportunity for two full-time permanent Supervisor positions covering the Fraser Valley and Metro Vancouver. This position is responsible for the supervision of 5-10 client contracts by leading a team to collect pest information and advising on the best possible management solutions

according to an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy. This position is in-person during the growing season with workflow flexibility in the winter months.

Your In-Season Duties (estimated March – September):

• Work closely with a team of supervisors, communicating clearly and regularly with the
• Logistical planning, problem-solving, and creating a daily schedule for field monitoring throughout the field season.
• Train and supervise a team of field
• Provide weekly monitoring reports to clients including field observations and recommendations for pest management.
• Ensure clients are satisfied with service and be willing to provide additional information upon
• Expect to work outside in varying weather conditions, 45-55 hours per
• Drive between multiple locations within the work day in addition to daily

Your Off-Season Duties (estimated October – February):

• Collaborate with colleagues to assist in research projects, both in-field and
• Research to improve knowledge of the crop(s) you work
• Take on additional roles within the team based on your existing strengths and career
  • Examples: Outreach, technology advancements, or new project/service
• Conduct historical data analysis and summaries, for the purpose of maintaining standards of
• Option for working remotely, subject to approval, 20-40 hours per week with occasional in- person requirements.

 

Your Capabilities and Credentials:

• Eligible for membership with the BC Institute of Agrologists (BCIA) – PAg, LLAg,
• Minimum one year of related industry
• Ability to demonstrate strong communication and emotional self-regulation
  • Solid work ethic and time
  • Strong leadership abilities, interpersonal skills, and ability to work
  • Demonstrated resiliency under
• Knowledge of pests and management
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office
• Access to a reliable vehicle (with space for equipment) and a valid BC (or equivalent) driver’s
• Capable of taking
• Have a strong interest in working in agriculture and outdoors, with capability to walk 5-10 km per day on uneven terrain.
• Excellent customer satisfaction skills and integrity for your
• Preference will be given to the following applicants:
  • Multi-year commitment from
  • Undergraduate degree in a related
  • Multiple years of related industry
  • Existing Agrologist designation with the
  • Experience with conducting field research and writing research
  • Experience with outreach, teaching, and

Salary and Benefits:

This position is paid hourly in bi-weekly pay periods. Starting wage will range from $21 – $26/hr based on education and previous experience. Vacation pay is accumulated with each pay cheque at 4%.

Benefits include:

• Mileage paid at $0.70/km for the use of your personal vehicle for the first 5,000 km driven and

$0.64/km driven after that.

• Extended Health benefits
• Opportunities for professional development and training related to
• Company cell phone and laptop
• Annual field gear

Job Site Locations:

Our field work takes place across the Fraser Valley and Metro Vancouver, so you may be required to work in any of the following locations: Richmond, Delta, Surrey, Langley, Abbotsford, Chilliwack, and Pitt Meadows. Our administrative office is located in Campbell Heights, Surrey.

 

Please submit your application to: Megan Gray at megan@escrop.com

• Cover Letter

• Resume

• Provide two or more references at time of interview

Successful applicants will be contacted for an interview held in-person between January and February, 2025.

We are dedicated to inclusivity, equity, and diversity in our workplace and community, bringing creativity from all backgrounds and providing a supportive learning environment. We encourage applications regardless of age, race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, and marital status. Individuals selected will be based on the applicant’s possession of skills, knowledge, and capability required to perform the job.

We acknowledge that we work on the unceded, traditional, and occupied territories, and as guests of the First Nations and the Métis Nation. We are gracious for the opportunity to work from this land.

For more information, please visit: www.escrop.com