JOHN P.

VANEK BS, MS, PHD, ASSOCIATE WILDLIFE BIOLOGIST®

631-813-8559 | john.p.vanek@gmail.com | johnpvanek.weebly.com | 131 Oak Drive, DeKalb IL 60115

PROFESSIONAL APPOINTMENTS
Postdoctoral Research Fellow 2020-Present
Program in Ecology, Evolution, Behavior, and Conservation
Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb IL.

Research focuses on ecology, conservation, and impacts of habitat restoration on suburban wildlife:
• Hire, manage, supervise, and train interns in safe, responsible field techniques and data collection
• Screen, query, analyze, manage ecological database with >200,000 records and 1 million observations
• GIS digitizing, analysis, and data management of wildlife and habitat restoration data; map making
• Develop and maintain professional relationships with municipal, state, and non-profit land managers
• Identify preserve-specific threats to rare, threatened and endangered wildlife and threat mitigation
• Present analyses to the broader scientific and management community; public outreach
• Field work includes small mammal trapping, camera trapping, reptile and amphibian sampling

EDUCATION
Ph.D. in Biological Sciences 2016-2020
Department of Biological Sciences
Northern Illinois University, DeKalb IL

M.S. in Biology with distinction 2012-2015

Department of Biology
Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY

B.S. in Wildlife Science cum laude 2006-2010

Department of Environmental and Forest Biology
SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse NY

PUBLICATIONS

PEER-REVIEWED PUBLICATIONS (JOURNAL ARTICLES AND SHORTER COMMUNICATIONS)

14. Vanek, J.P. et al. “Anthropogenic factors influence the occupancy of an invasive carnivore in a suburban 2020
preserve system.” In press: Urban Ecosystems: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11252-020-01026-x
13. Vanek, J.P., et. al. “Observations of American Badgers, Taxidea taxus (Schreber, 1777) in a restored 2020
tallgrass prairie in Illinois, USA with a new county record of successful reproduction.” Checklist: The
Journal of Biodiversity Data. 16(4): 933-937.
12. King, R.B & J.P. Vanek. “Responses of grassland snakes to tallgrass prairie restoration.” 28(3): 573-582 2020
Restoration Ecology.
11. Vanek, J.P. & R.L. Burke. “Insular dwarfism in female Eastern hog-nosed snakes (Dipsadidae; 2020
Heterodon platirhinos) on a barrier island.” Canadian Journal of Zoology. 98(3): 157-164.
10. Cassel, K.W., J.P. Vanek*, G.A. Glowacki., T.S. Preuss, &C.K. Nielsen. “Multiscale habitat factors 2019
influence the occupancy and turnover of Chicago’s urban herpetofauna.” Herpetological
Conservation and Biology. 14(2): 438-454. *Corresponding Author.
9. Vanek, J.P., et al. “Landscape and management factors influence the occupancy dynamics of sympatric 2019
salamanders in an urban system.” Global Ecology and Conservation. 20:e00742.
8. Vanek, J.P. & G.A. Glowacki. “Assessing the impacts of urbanization on sex ratios of painted 2019
turtles (Chrysemys picta).” Diversity. 11(5), 72.
7. Vanek, J.P. & J.A. Feinberg. “Storeria dekayi (Dekay’s Brownsnake). Suffolk County, New York. 2018
Geographic Distribution.” Herpetological Review. 49(4): 719-719.

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John P. Vanek, PhD Curriculum Vitae

5. Vanek, J.P. & D.K. Wasko. “Spatial ecology of the eastern hog-nosed snake (Heterodon platirhinos) at 2017
the northeastern limit of its range.” Herpetological Conservation and Biology. 12(1): 109-118.
4. Vanek, J.P. “Heterodon platirhinos (Eastern Hog-nosed Sake). Minimum Size at Sexual Maturity.” 2016
Herpetological Review. 47(4): 683-684.
3. Vanek, J.P. “Hemidactylium scutatum (Four-toed Salamander). Saratoga County, New York. 2016
Geographic Distribution.” Herpetological Review. 47(3): 417-417.
2. Brown, J.P., A. Kanonik, J.P. Vanek, C.A. Crown, & R.L. Burke. “Quantifying New York’s diamondback 2015
terrapin habitat.” Northeastern Naturalist. 22(3): 630-642.
1. Vanek, J.P., R. Mullin, & D.K. Wasko. “Heterodon platirhinos (Eastern Hog-nosed Snake). Reproduction 2014
/ Nest Site Fidelity.” Herpetological Review. 45(4): 710-711.

SUBMITTED AND IN REVIEW

5. Vanek, J.P., R.B. King, & P. McCrea. “Trachemys scripta scripta (Yellowbelly Slider). Geographic 2020
Distribution.” Submitted to: Herpetological Review.
4. Vanek, J.P., D. Eastin, J. Call, A. Rutter, & G. Glowacki. “Thamnophis sirtalis semifasciatus (Chicago 2020
Garter Snake). Scavenging/diet.” Submitted to: Herpetological Review.
3. Guiden, P.W., H.P. Jones, N. Barber, R. Blackburn, A. Farrell, S. Hosler, R. King, M. Nelson, E. 2020
Rowland, K. Savage, & J.P. Vanek. “No Field of Dreams: Effects of management outweigh effects of
plant diversity on restored animal communities in tallgrass prairies.” Revisions submitted:
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America.
2. Cove, M. et al. (one of 70 + authors) “SNAPSHOT USA 2019: the first coordinated national camera trap 2020
survey of the United States.” Revisions requested: Ecology.
1. Christy N. Wails, K. Baker, R. Blackburn, A. Del Valle, J. Heise, H. Herakovich, W.A. Holthuijzen, M.P. 2020
Nissenbaum, L. Rankin, K. Savage, J.P. Vanek, and H.P. Jones “Assessing changes to ecosystem
function following invasion by Spartina alterniflora and Phragmites australis: A meta-analysis.”
Submitted to: Biological Invasions

TECHNICAL REPORTS AND OTHER MANUSCRIPTS

10. Vanek, J.P. “Herpetofauna, species of greatest conservation need, and the LCFPD wildlife monitoring 2018
program.” Technical Report. Lake County Forest Preserve District.
9. Vanek, J.P. & D.K. Wasko. “Feeding Activity of an Eastern Hog-nosed Snake Immediately After Radio- 2017
tracking.” Bulletin of the Chicago Herpetological Society. 52(9):157.
8. Vanek, J.P., J.P. Brown, & C.A. Crown. “Observations on estuarine breeding birds in New York State.” 2016
The Kingbird. 66(4): 254-259.
7. Vanek, J.P., E.M. Schauber, & C.K. Nielsen. “Ecology of Striped Skunks in Southern Illinois.” Annual 2016
report for Federal Aid in Fish and Wildlife Restoration Project W-135-R Cooperative Furbearer and
Nongame Mammal Investigations. Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
6. Vanek, J.P., E.M. Schauber, & C.K. Nielsen. “Ecology of Striped Skunks in Southern Illinois.” 4th Quarter 2015
report for Federal Aid in Fish and Wildlife Restoration Project W-135-R Cooperative Furbearer and
Nongame Mammal Investigations. Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
5. Vanek, J.P., E.M. Schauber, & C.K. Nielsen. “Ecology of Striped Skunks in Southern Illinois.” 3rd Quarter 2015
report for Federal Aid in Fish and Wildlife Restoration Project W-135-R Cooperative
Furbearer and Nongame Mammal Investigations. Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
4. Vanek, J.P. “Spatial Ecology of Eastern Hog-nosed Snakes at Jones Beach State Park.” Annual 2014
Progress Report. NY Office of Park, Recreation, and Historic Preservation.
3. “NEPARC Disinfection Protocol: Disinfection of Field Equipment to Minimize Risk of Spread of 2014
Chytridiomycosis and Ranavirus.” NEPARC Publication 2014-02. One of several authors as part of
the Emerging Disease Working Group. Available at:
http://www.northeastparc.org/products/pdfs/NEPARC_Pub_2014-02_Disinfection_Protocol.pdf
2. Vanek, J.P. “Spatial Ecology of Eastern Hog-nosed Snakes at Jones Beach State Park.” Annual 2013
Progress Report. NY Office of Park, Recreation, and Historic Preservation.

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John P. Vanek, PhD Curriculum Vitae

1. Vanek, J.P. & D.K. Wasko, D.K. “Ecology of the Eastern Hog-nosed Snake at Moreau Lake State Park.” 2013
NY Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation.

GRANTS, AWARDS, AND HONORS

GRANTS ($180,248)

7. Northern Illinois University Libraries - Open access publishing support. 2019

Awarded to John P. Vanek: $1,650.
6. Lake County Forest Preserve District - Ecological assessment of district lands. 2018
Co-PIs: Richard B. King, Holly P. Jones, & John P. Vanek: $170,000.
5. Friends of Nachusa Grasslands Scientific Research Grant – Biodiversity in a tallgrass prairie. 2018
PI: John P. Vanek: $1,847.
4. Northern Illinois University Student Engagement Fund – Undergraduate mentee salary and 2017
equipment. PI: John P. Vanek. $2,051.
3. Chicago Herpetological Society Graduate Student Research Grant – Ecology of hog-nosed Snakes. 2014
PI: John P. Vanek: $1,000.
2. American Museum of Natural History T. Roosevelt Memorial Grant – Ecology of hog-nosed Snakes. 2014
PI: John P. Vanek: $2,200.
1. Experiment.com Crowdfunding Platform – Ecology of hog-nosed Snakes. 2014
PI: John P. Vanek: $1,500.

FELLOWSHIPS/SCHOLARSHIPS ($23,380)

7. Northern Illinois University – George L. Terwilliger Memorial Scholarship. $750. 2020

6. The Wildlife Society – Conservation Leaders for Tomorrow Training. $2500. 2019
5. Northern Illinois University – Dissertation Improvement Fellowship: $14,000. Declined. 2019
4. Northern Illinois University – Dennis Larson Memorial Scholarship in Environmental Studies: $830. 2019
3. Hofstra University – Biology Summer Fellowship: $1,800. 2014
2. Hofstra University – Biology Summer Fellowship: $1,800. 2013
1. Hofstra University – Donald Axinn Fellowship in Ecology and Conservation: $2,500. 2013

TRAVEL SUPPORT ($5,067)

12. Northern Illinois University – Midwest Fish and Wildlife Conference: $600 2019
11. Illinois Chapter of The Wildlife Society – Annual Meeting. $150. 2019
10. The Wildlife Society Student Development Working Group – TWS Annual Meeting. $310. 2018
9. Northern Illinois University – The Wildlife Society Annual Conference: $600. 2018
8. Northern Illinois University – Midwest Fish and Wildlife Conference: $400. 2018
7. Northern Illinois University – University of Wyoming: $482. 2017
6. Hofstra University – The Wildlife Society Annual Conference: $400. 2014
5. Hofstra University – Northeast Fish and Wildlife Conference: $400. 2014
4. Hofstra University – Joint Meeting of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists: $400. 2013
3. Hofstra University – Northeast Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Annual Meeting: $400. 2013
2. New York Chapter of The Wildlife Society – TWS Northeast Field Course: $425. 2012
1. SUNY-ESF – The Wildlife Society Annual Conference: $500. 2010

AWARDS

10. Outstanding Graduate Student Award. Northern Illinois University. 2020

9. AAAS Program for Excellence in Science. American Association for the Advancement of Science. 2017
8. AOS Student Membership Award. American Ornithological Society. 2017
7. Five Hundred Hour Volunteer Award. Coastal Refuge Society. Manteo, NC. 2011

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6. Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award. New York Chapter of The Wildlife Society. 2010
5. 1st Place. Student Quiz Bowl. The Wildlife Society NY Chapter Annual Meeting. 2010
3. 1st Place. Student Quiz Bowl. The Wildlife Society NE Student Conclave. 2010
4. 1st Place. Student Quiz Bowl. The Wildlife Society NE Student Conclave. 2009
2. 3rd Place. Student Quiz Bowl. The Wildlife Society Annual Conference. 2008
1. Eagle Scout. Suffolk County Council, NY. 2006

CONFERENCE ACTIVITY AND ACADEMIC PRESENTATIONS

HOSTED SYMPOSIA

1. Wildlife Conservation in the Decade of Ecosystem Restoration. Midwest Fish and Wildlife Conference.
Milwaukee, MN. Upcoming. http://www.midwestfw.org/html/2021symposia.shtml 2021

ORAL PRESENTATIONS (INVITED* N = 12)

26. Vanek, J.P. and G.A. Glowacki. “Patterns of herpetofaunal diversity in a suburban preserve district: 2020
Insight from a decade of monitoring. The Wildlife Society Annual Conference. Virtual.
25.* Vanek, J.P., R.B. King, and G.A. Glowacki. “Patterns of wildlife diversity in Lake County, IL.” Chicago 2020
Wilderness Wildlife Committee Annual Seminar. Canceled due to COVID-19.
24. Vanek, J.P. “Wildlife ecology and conservation in an urban ecosystem: applications of long-term 2020
monitoring data.” Public Dissertation Defense. Northern Illinois University. DeKalb, IL. Mar 17.
23. Vanek, J.P. “Anthropogenic factors Influence the occupancy of an invasive carnivore in a suburban 2020
preserve system.” Midwest Ecology and Evolution Conference. Macomb, IL. Feb. 29.
22.* Vanek, J.P., et al. 2019. “Assessing the impacts of urbanization on sex ratios of painted turtles 2020
(Chrysemys picta).” Midwest Fish & Wildlife Conference. Springfield, IL. Jan. 27. (Accepted but
could not attend)
21. Vanek, J.P. “Anthropogenic factors Influence the occupancy of an invasive carnivore in a suburban 2020
preserve system.” Midwest Fish & Wildlife Conference. Springfield, IL. Jan. 27 (Accepted but could
not attend)
20.* Vanek, J.P. “Wildlife Extension in Maryland.” University of Maryland Wye Research and Education 2020
Center. Queenstown, MD. Jan. 26.
19. Vanek, J.P. “Ecology and conservation of wildlife in a suburban preserve system.” NIU Department of 2019
Biological Sciences Seminar Series. DeKalb, IL. Oct. 17.
18.* Vanek, J.P., et al. 2019. “Assessing the impacts of urbanization on sex ratios of painted turtles 2019
(Chrysemys picta).” Midwest Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation. Madrid, IA. Aug 19.
17.* Vanek, J.P., et al. 2019. “The only good snake is an identified snake: the power of collective 2019
knowledge.” Joint Meeting of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists. Snowbird, UT. July 19. (Presented
by A. Durso).
16. Vanek, J.P., et al. 2019. “Occupancy and co-existence of domestic cats and mesocarnivores in a 2019
suburban preserve system.” Illinois Chapter of The Wildlife Society Annual Conference. Springfield,
IL. Apr 16.
15. Vanek, J.P., R.B. King, and G.A. Glowacki. 2019. “Is Urbanization Impacting the Sex Ratio of Painted 2019
Turtles in Lake County, IL?” Wild Things 2019 Conference. Rosemont, IL. Feb 23.
14. Vanek, J.P., R.B. King, and G.A. Glowacki. 2019. “Lake County Turtle Sex Ratios as a Function of 2019
Urbanization” Chicago Wild. Wildlife Committee Annual Seminar. Lincoln Park, IL. Feb 19.
13.* Vanek, J.P. 2018. “Prairie Engineers: Species Diversity at Mammalian Burrows.” Nachusa Science 2018
Symposium. Franklin Grove, IL. Oct 20.
12.* Vanek, J.P. 2018. “Illinois Snakes: Ecology and Conservation.” Illinois Association of Community 2018
College Biologists Annual Conference, Oglesby IL. Oct 12.
11.* Vanek, J.P. 2018. “Snakes of the Midwest: Science and Myths.” Biology Program. Kishwaukee College, 2018
Malta IL. Apr 21.

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10.* Vanek, J.P., R.B. King, and G.A. Glowacki. 2018. “Wildlife Monitoring and the Landscape Eco. of Mole 2018
Salamanders in N. Illinois”. STEM Speaker Series. College of Lake County, Grayslake IL. Mar 28.
9.* Vanek, J.P., R.B. King, and G.A. Glowacki. “Slimy Moles: Landscape and Management Factors 2018
Influencing the Occupancy Dynamics of Blue-spotted Salamanders.” Chicago Wilderness Wildlife
Committee Annual Seminar. Saint Charles, IL. Mar 1.
8. Vanek, J.P., R.B. King, and G.A. Glowacki. “The Influence of Landscape Factors and Prescribed Fire on 2018
the Occupancy Dynamics of Blue-Spotted Salamanders.” Midwest Fish & Wildlife Conference.
Milwaukee, WI. Jan 30.
7. King, R.B. and J.P. Vanek. 2018. “Snake Occupancy and Abundance in Restored Grasslands.” Midwest 2018
Fish & Wildlife Conference. Milwaukee, WI. Jan 30.
6. King, R.B., J.P. Vanek, et al. “Snake and Blanding’s Turtle Responses to Restoration at Nachusa 2017
Grasslands.” Nachusa Science Symposium. Franklin Grove, IL. Oct 21.
5.* Vanek, J.P., R.B. King, and G.A. Glowacki. 2017. “Dynamic Occupancy of Sympatric Ambystomatids: 2017
Landscape and Management Factors.” MWPARC. Martinsville, IN. Aug 19.
4. King, R.B. and J.P. Vanek. “Snake Occupancy and Abundance in Restored Grasslands.” Midwest 2016
Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation. Martinsville, IN.
3. Vanek, J.P. and R.L. Burke. “Spatial Ecology and of Dwarfed Eastern Hog-nosed Snakes on a Barrier 2016
Island.” Joint Meeting of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists. New Orleans, LA.
2.* Vanek, J.P. 2016. “Ecology and Natural History of the Eastern Hog-nosed Snake on Long Island.” Long 2016
Island Natural History Conference, Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton NY. March 16.
1. Vanek, J.P. and D.K. Wasko. “Spatial Ecology of the Eastern Hog-nosed Snake at the Northern Extent 2013
of its Range.” Northeast Fish and Wildlife Conference. Saratoga, NY.

POSTERS

17. Vanek, J.P., et al. “The only good snake is an identified snake: the power of collective knowledge .” 2020
Midwest Fish and Wildlife Conference. Springfield, IL. Jan. 27 (Accepted but could not attend)
16. Vanek, J.P., et al. “The only good snake is an identified snake: the power of collective knowledge .” 2019
Midwest Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation. Madrid, IA. Aug 19.
15. Vanek, J.P., et al. “Occupancy and co-existence of domestic cats and mesocarnivores in a suburban 2019
preserve system.” Phi Sigma Research Symposium. DeKalb, IL. April 6.
14. Vanek, J.P., et al. “Occupancy and co-existence of domestic cats and mesocarnivores in a suburban 2018
preserve system.” The Wildlife Society 25th Annual Conference. Cleveland, OH. Oct 9.
13. Vanek, J.P., R.B. King, and A. Glowacki. “Efficacy of Artificial Cover Objects to Monitor Tiger and Blue- 2018
Spotted Salamanders.” Phi Sigma Research Symposium. DeKalb, IL. April 12.
12. Vanek, J.P., R.B. King, and A. Glowacki. “Efficacy of Artificial Cover Objects to Monitor Tiger and Blue- 2018
Spotted Salamanders.” Midwest Fish and Wildlife Conference. Milwaukee, WI. Jan 30.
11. Vanek, J.P., E.M. Schauber, and C.K., Nielsen. “Ecology of Striped Skunks in Southern Illinois.” The 2015
Wildlife Society IL Chapter Annual Meeting. Makanda, IL.
10. Vanek, J.P. and R.L. Burke. “Island Dwarfism in Eastern Hog-nosed Snakes on a New York Barrier 2015
Island." Joint Meeting of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists. Chattanooga, TN.
9. Vanek, J.P. and R.L. Burke. “Ecology and Body Size Variation of Eastern Hog-nosed Snakes in New 2014
York.” The Wildlife Society National Conference. Pittsburgh, PA.
8. Vanek, J.P. and R.L. Burke. “Ecology of Eastern Hog-nosed Snakes on a Barrier Island.” Northeast 2014
Natural History Conference. Springfield, MA.
7. Vanek, J.P. and R.L. Burke. “Natural History and Ecology of Heterodon platirhinos on a New York Barrier 2014
Island.” Long Island Natural History Conference. Upton, NY.
6. Vanek, J.P. and R.L. Burke. “Island Dwarfism in Eastern Hog-nosed Snakes on a NY Barrier Island.” NE 2014
Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Annual Meeting. Salamanca, NY.
5. Vanek, J.P. and R.L. Burke. “Natural History and Ecology of Heterodon platirhinos on a New “York Barrier 2014
Island.” Student Conference for Conservation Science. New York, NY.
4. Vanek, J.P. and D.K. Wasko. “Spatial Ecology of the Eastern Hognose Snake near its Northeastern 2013
Range Limit.” Student Conference for Conservation Science. New York, NY.

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3. Figueras, M., R.L. Burke, T. Green, A. Calicho, J.P. Vanek, and D. Simon. “Eastern Box Turtle, T. 2013
carolina, Home Ranges at Brookhaven National Laboratory, NY.” NEPARC. Branchville, NJ.
2. Vanek, J.P. and D.K. Wasko. “Spatial Ecology of the Eastern Hognose Snake near its Northeastern 2013
Range Limit.” NE Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation. Branchville, NJ.
1. Vanek, J.P. and D.K. Wasko. “Spatial Ecology of the Eastern Hognose Snake near its Northeastern 2013
Range Limit.” Joint Meeting of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists. Albuquerque, NM.

ATTENDANCE ONLY

9. Midwest Herpetological Symposium. Lisle, IL. 2016

8. Pine Barrens Research Forum. Upton, NY. 2013
7. Northeast Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Annual Meeting. Crawford Notch, NH 2012
6. Indiana Chapter of The Wildlife Society Annual Meeting. 2011
5. The Wildlife Society National Conference. Monterey, CA. 2010
4. New York Chapter of The Wildlife Society Annual Meeting. 2010
3. The Wildlife Society National Conference. Miami, FL. 2009
2. New York Chapter of The Wildlife Society Annual Meeting. 2009
1. New York Chapter of The Wildlife Society Annual Meeting. 2008

TEACHING EXPERIENCE

ADJUNCT INSTRUCTOR OF RECORD (N = 9 SECTIONS, +1 UPCOMING)

7. Fundamentals of Organismal Biology. Spring. Lecture. NIU, DeKalb, IL. (Scheduled) 2021
6. Vertebrate Zoology. Fall. Lecture and Lab. Aurora University, Aurora, IL. 2020
5. Biology for non-majors Lab. Spring. Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY. 2014
4. Animal Form and Function Lab. Spring. Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY. 2014
3. Animal Form and Function Lab. Two 3hr sections. Fall. Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY. 2013
2. Animal Form and Function Lab. Two 3hr sections. Spring. Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY. 2013
1. Animal Form and Function Lab. Two 3hr sections. Fall. Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY. 2012

TEACHING ASSISTANT

2. Applied Wildlife Science. Spring. SUNY-ESF, Syracuse, NY. 2009

1. Herpetology. Fall. SUNY-ESF, Syracuse, NY. 2009

GUEST LECTURES AND INSTRUCTION

19. Ecology. Penn State Altoona. Altoona, PA. 2020

Topic: Urban Wildlife Ecology and Conservation. (upcoming)
18. R Learning Community. Northern Illinois University. Dekalb, IL. 2020
Topic: Creating interactive web applications with R Shiny. (upcoming)
17. R Learning Community. Northern Illinois University. Dekalb, IL. 2020
Topic: Introduction to graphing in the R Statistical Environment.
16. Conservation Biology. Northern Illinois University. Dekalb, IL. 2020
Topic: Careers in Conservation Biology
15. Life Science for Educators. Aurora University. Aurora, IL. 2020
Topic: Endangered Species Conservation, and Management.
14. Endangered Species Management and Recovery. Northern Illinois University. Dekalb, IL. 2019
Topic: Occupancy Estimation and Monitoring

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13. Biology of Fishes, Amphibians, and Reptiles. Northern Illinois University. Dekalb, IL. 2019
Topic: Urban Ecology, Wildlife Monitoring, and Applied Herpetology
12. Conservation Biology. Northern Illinois University. Dekalb, IL. 2019
Topic: Conservation Careers, Invasive Species, Urban Ecology.
11. Vertebrate Zoology. Aurora University. Aurora, IL. 2018
Topic: Remote Sensing in Mammalogy.
10. Introduction to Environmental Science. Northern Illinois University. Dekalb, IL. 2018
Topic: Biodiversity Conservation.
9. Conservation Biology. Northern Illinois University. Dekalb, IL. 2018
Topic: Ecosystem Services.
8. Introduction to Environmental Science. Northern Illinois University. Dekalb, IL. 2017
Topic: Conservation Careers and Urban Ecology
7. Conservation Biology. Northern Illinois University. Dekalb, IL. 2017
Topic: Ecosystem Services
6. Conservation Biology. Northern Illinois University. Dekalb, IL. 2016
Topic: Herpetology and Conservation Careers.
5. General Ecology. Northern Illinois University. Dekalb, IL. 2016
Topic: Reproductive Strategies
4. Wildlife Techniques. Southern Illinois University. Carbondale, IL. 2016
Topic: Radio-telemetry
3. Northeast Reptile and Amphibian Field Ecology. Montclair State University. Montclair, NJ. 2015
Topic: Herpetological Field Techniques
2. Wildlife Techniques. Castleton University and The Wildlife Society. Castleton, VT. 2014
Topic: Herpetology Field Methods and Radio-telemetry
1. Wildlife Techniques. Castleton University and The Wildlife Society. Castleton, VT. 2013
Topic: Herpetology Field Methods and Radio-telemetry

PROFESSIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION

1. Environmental Educator. CSH Fish Hatchery and Aquarium. Cold Spring Harbor, NY. 2012-2014
Lectured on environmental science for visiting community college classes

ELECTIVE PEDAGOGY TRAINING

3. Aurora University Virtual Instruction Seminar Series 2020

1–3 hour interactive sessions each covering: Backward Design, The Flipped Classroom,
Student Accommodations, Lesson Design, Student Engagement, Classroom Management,
Zoom Training, Course Management Systems
2. BIOS 761 Teaching in the Biological Sciences. 2019
Graduate level course focused on classroom management and course design.
1. BIOS 761 Scientific Teaching. 2018
Graduate level course focused on active learning and evidence-based pedagogy.

MENTORING

POST-BACCALAUREATE INTERNS

8. Jessica Call. Last known position: Graduate Student, Idaho State University 2020

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John P. Vanek, PhD Curriculum Vitae

7. Dani Easton. Last known position: Intern, Lake County Forest Preserve District 2020
6. Gabby Barnas. Last known position: Field Technician, UC Davis 2019
5. Raela Wataha. Last known position: Inter, Texas A&M University 2019
4. Sarah Cheatam. Last known position: Field Technician, U.S. Geological Survey 2018
3. Maria Weston. Last known position: MS Student, Grand Valley State University 2018
2. Katherine Waguespack. Last known position: Field Technician, Virginia Polytechnic University 2017
1. Elizabeth Mullen. Last known position: Wildlife Biologist, Forest County Potawatomi Tribe 2017

UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCHERS

2. Cecilia Grisolia. Project: Remote sensing of mesocarnivores in a restored tallgrass prairie. 2018
1. Ty Harmston. Project: Small mammal occupancy in a restored tallgrass prairie. Now Grad Student. 2017

HIGH SCHOOL RESEARCHERS (THROUGH THE ILLINOIS ISTI MENTOR MATCHMAKING ENGINE)

4. Anthony Bellmar, Matt Poulin, and Ray Freeland. Project: Effects of pollutants on algal growth. 2018
3. Max Mauschbaugh and Sydney Greim. Project: Squirrel habitat selection. 2017
2. Daniel Whitaker and Avery Davidson. Project: Effects of soil pH on garlic mustard. 2017
1. Reo Hoffelt. Project: Effects of salmon on the Great Lakes ecosystem. 2016

OTHER MENTORING

1. Science Olympiad Coach. Syracuse Public School System National Team. Syracuse, NY. 2010

LEADERSHIP

13. Advisory Board Member. Midwest Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation. 2018-2020
12. Board Member at Large. Early Career Professional Working Group. The Wildlife Society. 2018-2020
11. Secretary. Student Development Working Group. The Wildlife Society. 2018-2019
10. President. Biological Science Graduate Student Association. Northern Illinois University, IL. 2017-2019
9. Social Media Content Administrator. The Wildlife Society IL Chapter. 2016-2020
8. Social Media Content Administrator. New York Chapter of The Wildlife Society. 2014-2018
7. Executive Officer/Founding Member. Biology Club. Hofstra University, NY. 2014-2015
6. Assistant Scoutmaster. Boy Scouts of America. Tidewater Council, NC. 2010-2011
5. President. Student Chapter of The Wildlife Society. SUNY-ESF, NY. 2009-2010
4. Deer Sampling Crew Leader. NYS Dept. Env. Conservation. Onondaga County, NY. 2009
3. Quiz-Bowl Captain. Student Chapter of The Wildlife Society. SUNY-ESF, NY. 2008-2010
2. Secretary. Student Chapter of The Wildlife Society. SUNY-ESF, NY. 2008-2009
1. Assistant Scoutmaster. Boy Scouts of America. Suffolk County Council, NY. 2006-2010

PROFESSIONAL SERVICE

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

1. The Herpetological Journal. The British Herpetological Society. 2020

PEER REFEREE (N = 19 PAPERS ACROSS 16 JOURNALS/BOOKS)

Applied Hierarchical Models in Ecology Volume II (Chapter 4), Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems,
Biological Invasions, Copeia , Forest Ecology and Management, Herpetological Conservation and Biology, Herpetological
Review, Illinois Natural History Bulletin, Journal of Wildlife Management, Mammal Research, PeerJ, Southeastern
Naturalist, The Journal of Herpetology, U.S. Geological Survey Internal Review, Urban Ecosystems, Urban Naturalist

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ACTIVE WORKING GROUP PARTICIPATIO N

6. PARC 20th Anniversary Working Group. Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation. 2019
5. Early Career Professional Working Group. The Wildlife Society. 2018-2020
4. Citizen Science Working Group. MW Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation. 2017
3. Emerging Disease Working Group. NE Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation. 2014-2015
2. Year of the Snake Working Group. NE Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation. 2013
1. Student Development Working Group. The Wildlife Society. 2010, 2018-2019

ACADEMIC SEMINAR HOSTING

6. Ashely Alred, MS. Student learning in biology. NIU Biological Sciences Seminar 2020
5. Dr. Benjamin Zuckerberg. Climate change ecology. NIU Biological Sciences Seminar. 2019
4. Dr. Karen Glennemeier. Urban amphibian conservation. NIU Biological Sciences Seminar. 2018
3. Dr. Stanley Gehrt. Coyotes in the Anthropocene. NIU Graduate Colloquium Seminar. 2018
2. Dr. Clayton Nielsen. Cougars in the Midwest. NIU Graduate Colloquium Seminar. 2017
1. Dr. Randy Olson. Science communication. SUNY-ESF/Syracuse University Earth Day Seminar. 2010

OTHER PROFESSIONAL SERVICE

9. Abstract Review. The Wildlife Society, 27th Annual Conference.

8. Grant Review. The Alongside Wildlife Foundation. 2019
7. Student Travel Grant Review. The Wildlife Society., 26th Annual Conference. 2019
6. Poster Judge. Northern Illinois University Phi Sigma Research Symposium. 2018
5. Session Moderator. Joint Meeting of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists. New Orleans, LA. 2016
4. Poster Judge. Nassau County, NY Science Fair. 2014
3. Science Fair Judge. Peconic Dunes, NY 4-H Camp. 2013
2. Poster Judge. Northeast Fish and Wildlife Association Annual Meeting. 2013
1. Quiz Bowl Judge. Northeast Fish and Wildlife Association Annual Meeting. 2013

PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY MEMBERSHIPS (PAST AND CURRENT)

9. Midwest Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation

8. The Wildlife Society (North-central Section)
7. The Wildlife Society (Illinois Chapter)
6. American Society of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists
5. The Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles
4. Northeast Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation
3. The Wildlife Society (Northeast Section)
2. The Wildlife Society (New York Chapter)
1. The Wildlife Society (National)

OUTREACH AND SCIENCE COMMUNICATION

PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS

13. “Not so spooky critters: exploring reptiles and amphibians.” 2020

Northern Illinois STEM Café and STEAM Fest. Virtual. Oct 13.
12. “Backyard Wildlife: Urban Ecology and Conservation.” 2020
Northern Illinois STEM Cafe. Virtual. Jun 24.
11. “Urban Ecology and the Herpetofauna of Lake County, Illinois.” 2019
Chicago Herpetological Society. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. Chicago, IL. Oct 30.
10. “Common Herpetofauna of Northern Illinois.” 2019

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Boone, Dekalb, and Ogle County Master Naturalists. Genoa, IL. Sep. 28.
9. “Herpetology: Field Techniques, Common Species, and Biology.” 2019
Boone, Dekalb, and Ogle County Master Naturalists. Genoa, IL. April 1.
8. “Herpetology: Field Techniques, Common Species, and Biology.” 2018
Boone, Dekalb, and Ogle Co. Master Naturalists. Oregon, IL. Apr 9.
7. “Slimy Moles: Ambystomatids of Lake County Forest Preserves.” 2017
Lake County Forest Preserve District Stewards. Libertyville, IL. Oct. 10.
6. “Reptiles and Amphibians of Northeastern Illinois.” 2017
Boone, Dekalb, and Ogle County Master Naturalists. Genoa, IL. Sep. 16.
5. “Ecology of Eastern Hog-nosed Snakes on a Barrier Island.” 2016
Madison Area Herpetological Society, Madison, WI. October 7.
4. “Ecology of Eastern Hog-nosed Snakes on a Barrier Island.” 2016
Chicago Herpetological Society. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. Chicago, IL. September 28.
3. “Little Armored One: Natural History of the Nine-banded Armadillo.” 2016
Southern Illinois Master Naturalists. Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. Marion, IL.
2. “Island Dwarfism in the Eastern Hog-nosed Snake on a Barrier Island.” 2015
Herpetology Enthusiasts of Southern Illinois. Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL.
1. “Ecology and Natural History of the Eastern Hog-nosed Snake.” 2015
NYS Parks, Recreation, and Historic Development. Wantagh, NY.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOL PRESENTATIONS

14. Wildlife Biology and Careers. Blue Springs High School. Blue Springs, MO. 2020
13. Reptiles and Amphibians. Hoover Woods Elementary. Batavia, IL. 2019
12. Reptiles and Amphibians. Gwendolyn Brooks Elementary. DeKalb, IL. 2019
11. Skype a Scientist. 4th Grade. East Palo Alto Charter School, East Palo Alto, CA. 2018
10. Skype a Scientist. 5th Grade. East Palo Alto Charter School, East Palo Alto, CA. 2018
9. Reptiles and Amphibians. Gwendolyn Brooks Elementary. DeKalb, IL. 2018
8. Turtles! Fairview Early Education Center. Rockford, IL. 2017
7. Wildlife Biology. Gwendolyn Brooks Elementary. STEAM Night. DeKalb, IL. 2017
6. Amphibians. Genius Hour. Elementary School. Allen, TX. 2016
5. Venomous Snakes of Southern Illinois. Murphysboro High School. Murphysboro, IL. 2016
4. Wildlife Biology. Science Night, 1st Annual. Sparta Public School District. Sparta, IL. 2016
3. Reptiles and Amphibians. Adams School. Creal Springs, IL. 2015
2. Careers in Science. DuQuoin Middle School. DuQuoin, IL. 2015
1. Reptiles and Amphibians. Farmingdale High School. Farmingdale, NY. 2014

OTHER SCIENCE COMMUNICATION (* = CANCELED DUE TO COVID-19)

9*. Wildlife Ecology and Conservation in Suburbia. Homewood-Flossmoor Science Pub. Homewood, IL. 2020
8. The World of Wildlife Monitoring. Words of the Woods Podcast. Libertyville, IL. 2019
7. STEM-O-RAMA. Three Fires Council, Boy Scouts of America. Sandwich, IL. 2017
6. Wildlife Biology. Science in the South at SIU. Carbondale, IL. 2015
5. Reptiles and Amphibians. Naturefest. Moreau Lake State Park. Ganesvoort, NY. 2014
4. Reptiles and Amphibians. Naturefest. Moreau Lake State Park. Ganesvoort, NY. 2014
3. Eastern Hog-nosed Snakes. Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center. Gansevoort, NY. 2012
2. Reptiles and Amphibians. Naturefest. Moreau Lake State Park. Ganesvoort, NY. 2012
1. Snakes of Saratoga County. Balston Spa 4-H Club. Balston Spa, NY. 2012

MEDIA COVERAGE

15. The Daily Chronicle – “Where the Wild Things Are… On NIU’s Campus.” 2020
14. The MidWeek – “Where the Wild Things Are… On NIU’s Campus.” 2020
13. Northern Illinois University Newsroom – “Where the Wild Things Are… On NIU’s Campus.” 2020
12. Bulletin of the Chicago Herpetological Society – “What You Missed at the October Meeting.” 2019
11. Outdoor Illinois Wildlife Journal – “Returning Bison to the Illinois Landscape.” 2018

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10. LCNS/Chicago Tribune – “Lake County biologists study salamanders emerging from winter burrows.” 2018
9. Lake County Forest Preserve District Horizons – “Science in the News.” 2017
8. The Roving Naturalist – “Explain Yourself: Wildlife Triage with John.” 2017
7. The Nature Conservancy – “Snakes on the Plains!”. 2017
6. Bulletin of the Chicago Herpetological Society – “What You Missed at the September Meeting”. 2016
5. 27East: Your connections to the Hamptons – “Calling all naturalists!”. 2016
4. 27East: Your connections to the Hamptons – “Notes on the Hognose Snake.” 2016
3. Experiment.com – “Hognose snake playing dead – GROSS!” 2015
2. ScienceAlert – “WATCH: This Snake Is an Absolute Pro at Playing Dead.” 2014
1. The Post Star – “Shedding new light on snakes.” 2013

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

13. Consulting Wildlife Biologist. Cooperative Wildlife Research Lab. Southern Illinois U. Carbondale, IL. 2018
Trained technicians in mesocarnivore trapping, handling, processing, and telemetry.
12. Seasonal Wildlife Specialist. USDA APHIS Wildlife Services. Jamaica, NY. 2015
Nuisance wildlife control and management at JFK International Airport.
11. Seasonal Field and Laboratory Technician. Florida State University. Tallahassee, FL. 2015
Chorus Frog field sampling and behavioral experiments.
10. Seasonal Wildlife Monitor. M&B Environmental Consulting. Islip, NY. 2014
Peregrine falcon nest monitoring and behavioral observations.
9. Ecological Consultant. Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architects. Charlottesville, VA. 2013
Pre-restoration biodiversity survey of a PA farm; focus on Herpetofauna.
8. Conservation and GIS Technician. Town of Hempstead Dept. of Conservation and Waterways. 2012-2014
Data analysis (breeding bird distribution, nutrient and pollution modeling); report writing.
7. Per-diem Environmental Educator. Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery and Aquarium. CSH, NY. 2012-2014
Environmental education for K-12, special needs, community college, and summer camps.
6. Seasonal Biological Field Technician. Purdue University. West Lafayette, IN. 2011
Timber rattlesnake telemetry and herpetological sampling.
5 Seasonal Wildlife Monitoring Intern. US Fish and Wildlife Service. Manteo, NC. 2010-2011
Black bear and red wolf telemetry. Camera trap and road-kill surveys. Turtle Trapping.
4. Post-Baccalaureate Intern. Archbold Biological Station. Venus, Florida. 2010
Gopher tortoise telemetry, tree frog sampling, wetland delineation.
3. Ecological Consultant. Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architects, Charlottesville, VA. 2010
Pre-restoration biodiversity survey of a VA farm; focus on herpetofauna.
2. Seasonal Field and Laboratory Technician. Case-Western Reserve University. Cleveland, OH. 2009
Drift fence sampling. Morphological measurements of wood frogs.
1. Seasonal Biological Field Technician. SUNY Research Foundation. Syracuse, NY. 2008
Hellbender and crayfish surveys. Eastern massasauga habitat management.

CERTIFICATIONS AND TRAINING

15. Fundamentals of Structured Decision-Making Workshop. TWS Annual Conference (Upcoming) 2020
14. Conservation Leaders for Tomorrow. Max McGraw Wildlife Foundation. 2019
13. Hunter Safety and Education. Texas Department of Parks and Wildlife. 2019
12. Associate Wildlife Biologist ®. The Wildlife Society. 2019
11. Multi-species Occupancy Modelling Workshop. TWS Biometrics Working Group. 2018
10. Occupancy Modelling Workshop. Proteus Wildlife Consultants. 2017
9. Firefighter Training S-130. National Wildfire Coordinating Group 2017
8. Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior S-190. National Wildfire Coordinating Group 2017
7. Basic Range Safety. National Rifle Association. 2015
5. Hunter Safety and Education. Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2012
4. Project WILD! Council for Environmental Education. 2012
3. Wilderness First Aid. American Red Cross. 2010, 2019
2. When Help is Delayed. American Red Cross. 2010
1. CPR for the Professional Rescuer and Healthcare Provider. American Red Cross. 2010, 2013, 2019

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John P. Vanek, PhD Curriculum Vitae

SKILLS AND TECHNIQUES

Computing: R, SPSS, Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Access, Word), ArcGIS/ArcMAP, QGIS/Quantum GIS,
Filemaker Pro, ImageJ

Field and Organismal: off-road hiking, backpacking, and camping; navigation with GPS, compass, and topographic maps;
safe and responsible off-road driving with four-wheel drive, utility, and all-terrain vehicles; prescribed fire; wilderness safety;
canoeing; kayaking; identification, distribution, natural history, phylogenetic relationships, ecology, and habitat requirements
of North American wildlife; radio-telemetry (triangulation and homing); visual encounter surveys; remote-sensing (trail
cameras, playback surveys, point counts); aquatic and terrestrial trapping (minnow traps, funnel traps, box traps, pitfall
traps, drift fences, hoop nets, dip nets, Sherman® live traps, Tomahawk® live traps, mist nets); marking techniques (radio-
tagging/collaring; toe clipping, visible implant elastomer, scale clipping, shell notching, branding, ear clipping; fluorescent
powder coating); museum specimen preservation/ preparation; safe and responsible handling/processing of native and
invasive wildlife (including venomous species); tissue collection; disease testing (chytrid, snake fungal disease); tree
identification and natural history; vegetation surveys; wetland delineation

PROFESSIONAL REFERENCES

Dr. Richard B. King

Distinguished Research Professor
Northern Illinois University
rbking@niu.edu; (815) 753-7833

Dr. Holly P. Jones

Associate Professor of Conservation/Restoration Ecology
Northern Illinois University
hjones@niu.edu; (815) 753-7527

Dr. Russell L. Burke

Distinguished Professor in Ecology and Conservation
Hofstra University
russell.l.burke@hofstra.edu; (516) 463-7272

Dr. Clayton K. Nielsen

Professor of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation
Southern Illinois University
kezo92@siu.edu ; (618) 453-7474

Gary A. Glowacki
Senior Wildlife Ecologist
Lake County Forest Preserve District
gglowacki@lcfpd.org; (847) 968-3264

Peggy S. Doty
Extension Educator, Environmental and Energy Stewardship
University of Illinois Extension
psdoty@illinois.edu; (815) 784 2000

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