July 2007 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Postdoc position - reposting with modifications
by Julie Young 18 Jul '07

18 Jul '07

Postdoctoral Position in Animal Behavior and Demography Arizona State University Applications are invited for a postdoctoral position in behavioral ecology and population biology/demography. The position is available from October 1, 2007, for a period of up to 2 years. Postdoc will work with PI and graduate students on an NSF-funded project to 1) integrate theories from behavioral ecology with quantitative techniques in demography and 2) contribute to an empirical research program on California sea lions in the Gulf of California, Mexico to test hypotheses regarding the degree to which the demography of sea lions depends on reproductive behavior. More detail on the project can be found at http://www.public.asu.edu/~lrgerbe/. We are seeking an individual who is comfortable with large datasets and programming scripts for non-standard statistical tools in R or SAS to handle nesting, temporal autocorrelation and other statistical dependencies that plague large behavioral datasets. One of the central goals is to advance new statistical approaches to behavioral studies. Analyses of the data will be based on questions of interests to both the PI and the postdoc. The main criteria are: a knowledge of standard statistics for ecology, familiarity with elementary programming and modelling, research experience in some type of ecological field work, and imagination, curiosity, and a knack for working independently. In addition, knowledge of demographic modeling approaches are desirable. A PhD in some aspect of ecology is required. The person will be based at Arizona State University in Tempe with potential for field work in the Gulf of California Mexico. Send CV, statement of research interests, and contact information for 3 references to leah.gerber(a)asu.edu. Closing date: 10/1/2007, or until a successful candidate is identified. Arizona State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

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Call for Papers - ESR Theme Issue: "Fisheries Bycatch: Problems and Solutions"
by Brendan Godley 18 Jul '07

18 Jul '07

ESR Theme Issue: "Fisheries Bycatch: Problems and Solutions" Fisheries bycatch is an issue of global conservation concern that affects many species worldwide. Endangered Species Research (ESR) http://www.int-res.com/journals/esr/, a growing conservation journal, is developing a theme issue on "Fisheries Bycatch: Problems and Solutions" for publication mid-2008. All material will be fully open access and thus a high level of visibility is ensured. This ESR theme issue was catalyzed by the ongoing work of Project GloBAL <http://bycatch.env.duke.edu/> (Global Bycatch Assessment of Long Lived Species) that seeks to address this pressing conservation problem through innovative research approaches and collaborative efforts. Manuscripts addressing current bycatch hotspots, analytical approaches to understanding and assessing bycatch, and bycatch solutions in both industrial and artisanal fisheries are welcomed. To discuss the suitability of a manuscript for inclusion in this ESR Special, please contact Dr. Rebecca Lewison (ESR Editor) <rlewison(a)sciences.sdsu.edu> or Dr. Brendan Godley (ESR Editor-in-Chief) <b.j.godley(a)ex.ac.uk> This ESR Special will build upon the success of "Tracking Vertebrates for Conservation" which has begun posting finalized corrected proofs and will be published online by end of year 2007. Dr. Brendan J. Godley Senior Lecturer in Conservation Biology Centre for Ecology & Conservation School of Biosciences University of Exeter, Cornwall Campus TR10 9EZ, UK Tel: +44 1326 371 861 Editor-in-Chief, Endangered Species Research <http://www.int-res.com/journals/esr/> Homepage http://www.seaturtle.org/mtrg/

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Marine Mammal Science Assistant-In position - University of Florida
by Iske Larkin 18 Jul '07

18 Jul '07

Assistant-In, Marine Mammal Science The University of Florida, College of Veterinary Medicine is seeking someone to fill the position of Assistant-In for a one year period, located at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Marine Mammal Pathobiology Laboratory (MMPL) in St. Petersburg, FL. Job duties for the assistant-in (20% teaching and 80% research) will include assisting with research and necropsy of marine mammals, mostly manatees, at the FWC MMPL as directed by senior staff at the facility. Laboratory duties may include assistance with necropsy of manatees and other marine mammal species presented to the laboratory, participation in field work involving carcass recovery, live animal strandings and live animal captures. On-site supervision will be the responsibility of the MMPL Associate Research Scientist. Assisting MMPL staff with development of extramural grant proposals and peer-reviewed research publications is expected. During the one year appointment the assistant-in will conduct a research project agreed on by the individual, the UF Director of Aquatic Animal Health, MMPL senior staff, and the FWC Program Administrator for Marine Mammal Research. The assistant-in will be expected to produce at least one manuscript for peer reviewed publication related to work done at the MMPL, and present the findings in a seminar at the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute and at the University of Florida. Teaching responsibilities will include, but are not limited to, assisting with organization of Sea Vet and providing at least one lecture. In addition, the assistant-in is expected to contribute to Marvet, Prescott workshops and FWC outreach activities. Participation in graduate education is also expected and may include assistance with sample collection at the MMPL and support of graduate student publication. Salary: Commensurate with Qualifications and Experience Basic Qualifications: A DVM or equivalent degree, or a minimum of a MS degree in epidemiology, pathobiology or related field, is required. Demonstrated research and pathology experience is required. A demonstrated track record in publication of research results is desirable. Candidates with demonstrated clinical proficiency with non-domestic species will be viewed favorably. The ability to work well with UF and FWC personnel is essential. How to Apply: Interested persons are requested to submit a letter of application, curriculum vitae, and contact information (names, addresses, email and telephone numbers) for three professional references from whom recommendations may be requested. All of the above must be post-marked by July 30th, 2007 to be considered for initial screening. The University of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Please send applications to Dr. Iske Larkin, Search Committee Chair, Dept of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, PO Box 100136, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610-0126; phone 352-392-2212, x5168, e-mail: Larkini(a)vetmed.ufl.edu . The search committee will begin reviewing applications immediately and will continue to review applications until an appointment is made. For further information about our Aquatic Animal Health Program you can check out our web page at: http://marinemammal.vetmed.ufl.edu/ Iske L. Vandevelde Larkin, Ph.D. Assistant Scientist Education Coordinator Aquatic Animal Health Program Large Animal Clinical Sciences & Dept. of Zoology University of Florida 2015 SW 16th Ave. CVM - PO Box 100136 Gainesville, Fl 32610 (Ship to zip - 32608) USA ***NOTE New Phone # and E-mail Phone (352) 392-2212 ext 5168 Cell (352) 494-1742 Fax (352) 846-1171 e-mail: Larkini(a)vetmed.ufl.edu

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Large Sotalia by-catch off northern Brazil
by Salvatore Siciliano 17 Jul '07

17 Jul '07

Dear Marmaners, We have just concluded a one-year monitoring program for incidental catches of small dolphins in the gillnet fishery operating off northern Brazil. Since August 2006, a total of 11 field trips were monitored onboard a fishing vessel operating off the coast of Amapa' State. The main target are 'pescada- amarela' and 'gurijuba', higly prized in the fish markets of Brazil. It was detected a large by-catch of dolphins, all of them Sotalia. Molecular analysis of a large sample set of Sotalia specimens were conducted at Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. All specimens were identified as S. guianensis. Numbers of dolphins found entangled varied from one to 83 in a single boat operating off the northern Brazilian coast. We kindly request suggestions of measures to reduce such alarming by-catch mortality of Sotalia in the northern Brazilian fishery. Thanks, Salvatore Siciliano, Renata Emin-Lima, Angelica Rodrigues, Alexandra Costa and Thais Sholl Grupo de Estudos de Mamiferos Aquaticos da Amazonia -- ENSP - Fiocruz

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Marine Wildlife Behavioral Database Workshop
by adam frankel 17 Jul '07

17 Jul '07

We would like to announce a workshop at the 2007 Society for Marine Mammalogy Meeting. The Marine Wildlife Behavior Database Workshop will be held at the Convention Center on Tuesday afternoon, November 27. We have been working on a project to create and populate a behavioral database for marine animals. This is intended, in part, to support animal behavior movement models, including those incorporated into impact assessment models. The objectives of the workshop are to convene researchers collecting behavior data on marine mammals to discuss the proposed standard for measuring and reporting diving, movement, and acoustic characteristics of marine wildlife. We have planned several talks and discussions to review the origin and status of this effort and also welcome other presenters that may wish to contribute. Abstracts for submitted talks are due by 17 August and participants are encouraged to pre-register because space is limited. The abstract submission page and more details are posted at: http://www.edc.uri.edu/MWBD.

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New website for ACT FOR DOLPHINS!
by Lori Marino 16 Jul '07

16 Jul '07

ANNOUNCING A NEW ACT FOR DOLPHINS WEBSITE ACT FOR DOLPHINS is a group of marine mammal scientists and zoo and aquarium professionals dedicated to ending the annual dolphin drive hunts in Japan. We are announcing the launch of a new website for this campaign sponsored by The Ocean Project. The website contains scientific information on the impact of the drives, a Scientist Statement signed by close to 250 marine mammal professionals, the latest news, videos, and much more. We wish to thank all of our colleagues who have supported this effort over the past couple of years. We hope this website will encourage more of you to get involved and, in general, work towards protecting the welfare and conservation of cetaceans and other marine mammals. For our new website go to: http://www.theoceanproject.org/actfordolphins/index.html If you have any questions or wish to add your signature to the Scientist Statement, please contact Lori Marino at lmarino(a)emory.edu. Thank you, Paul Boyle, Ph.D. CEO and Chairman The Ocean Project Lori Marino, Ph.D. Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology Program Emory University Diana Reiss, Ph.D. Department of Psychology Hunter College, CUNY -- Lori Marino, Ph.D. Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology Program 1462 Clifton Road, Suite 304 Emory University Atlanta, GA 30322 Phone: (404) 727-7582 Fax: (404) 727-7471

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Position Posting- Mystic Aquarium
by Mazzaro, Lisa 16 Jul '07

16 Jul '07

JOB POSTING Position: Stranding Coordinator Department: Mammals & Birds Immediate Supervisor: Curator of Mammals & Birds Employment Classification: Full-time, Exempt Job Summary: Responsible for coordinating and performing all of the tasks associated with the rescue, rehabilitation and salvage of stranded marine mammals and turtles in the region for which the Aquarium accepts responsibility from the National Marine Fisheries Service. These tasks include collecting data and specimens, overseeing and training volunteers, interfacing with the public and media, assisting with the rehabilitation of rescued animals, and coordinating the release of healthy animals. Requirements: Bachelor's degree in Biology or related field and 2 years experience in marine animal rescue and rehabilitation. Must be able to lead stranding team under demanding field conditions. Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Valid driver's license and a good driving record. Must be physically able to execute the work of the position. Flexibility with work schedule is essential. Ability to act as spokesperson for public outreach programs regarding rescue and release of stranded animals. Qualified candidates forward resume and references by Friday, July 20, 2007 to: Mystic Aquarium Institute for Exploration Human Resources 55 Coogan Boulevard Mystic, CT 06355 Fax: 860-572-5969 Email: humanresources(a)mysticaquarium.org EOE/AA Lisa Mazzaro, Ph.D. Assistant Director of Research and Animal Care Mystic Aquarium 55 Coogan Blvd. Mystic, CT 06355 860-572-5955 x 109 fax: 860-572-5972 email: Lmazzaro(a)mysticaquarium.org Lmazzaro(a)aol.com

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Cetacean Research Assistant required
by Edita Magileviciute 15 Jul '07

15 Jul '07

Cetacean Research Assistant- Utila Centre for Marine Ecology (UCME) Research Assistant is required to help with a cetacean research project based in Utila, Bay Islands, Honduras. The project aims to assess the population size and structure of cetacean species around the island to determine residency patterns, identify critical habitats for particular species as well as investigating behavioural activity and drivers of these including environmental and anthropogenic pressures. This project aims to assist in determining the long-term viability of the local cetacean population and the sustainability and management of the tourism industry based on interactions with these animals. This voluntary position is an excellent opportunity for an individual working toward a career in marine sciences to gain hands on experience in relation to survey techniques, photo-identification, behavioural observations and improve existing skills. The Research Assistant is required for a minimum of six months with the start date being flexible and will be based in Utila, Honduras. Housing and food will be provided at no cost. The Research Assistant is responsible for his or her own travel, insurance and personal expenses. Important skills/qualifications: . A background in marine biology/environmental science is essential . A strong interest and knowledge of cetaceans would be an advantage . Prior experience in a marine mammal boat based survey work is preferred . Good verbal and written communication skills, public speaking and IT skills . The successful candidate must be self-motivated, willing to work both alone and within a team; have the ability to follow directions, be adaptable and patient as fieldwork is highly weather dependent. Specific duties and responsibilities * Assisting with the boat-based cetacean surveys, photo-identification and behavioural data collection, entry and analysis. * Manage data and ensure quality control. * Manage and maintain the relevant field equipment * Participating in community-based environmental education * Help supervise and assist in training volunteers For more information on our research and the volunteer programme, please visit our website www.utilaecology.org <http://www.utilaecology.org/> To Apply: Please reply to Edita Magileviciute with your CV and a covering letter. Email: cetaceans(a)utilaecology.org Important: please put Cetacean Research Assistant application into your subject title.

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2007 International SmartGear Competition
by jennifer palmer 13 Jul '07

13 Jul '07

Thought this posting might interest a few of you...Kind regards,Jen------FYI- Please respond directly to Alison Cross at WWF or SmartGear website!------- Hello,Organizers of the 2007 International SmartGear Competition thought you (or someone you know) might have an innovative idea for reducing fisheries bycatch - and would appreciate winning $30,000 for it!WWF and its partners created the SmartGear Competition to inspire innovative, practical, cost-effective ideas that allow fishermen to "fish smarter" – to better target their intended catch while reducing bycatch. The competition awards cash prizes for the best idea to reduce bycatch, which is the leading threat to many marine mammals, sea turtles, seabirds, and certain fish species. The 2007 International SmartGear Competition will award a $30,000 Grand Prize and two $10,000 Runner-Up Prizes. Entry Deadline: July 31, 2007 The competition is open to all – fishermen, gear manufacturers, teachers, students, engineers, scientists, and backyard inventors. Please visit www.smartgear.org for entry materials and to learn about the winning ideas from the first two competitions. Also, please forward this e-mail to help us spread the word about the competition. Thank you!Alison Cross Program Associate - Fisheries World Wildlife Fund California Marine Office 171 Forest Avenue Palo Alto, CA 94301 650.323.3504 alison.cross@wwfus.org-------------------------------------------------------------------Jennifer L. Palmer Marine Program Officer, Global Marine Programme IUCN - The World Conservation Union 1630 Connecticut Avenue NW, Suite 300 Washington, DC 20009-1053 Tel: 202.518.2070 Fax: 202.387.4823 Email: jpalmer(a)iucnus.org

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Seal internship opening
by Phocid＠aol.com 13 Jul '07

13 Jul '07

Due to a very busy Harbour Seal pupping season, Island Wildlife, Salt Spring Island, BC, has an immediate opening for an additional rehabilitation intern. Internship will last up to 8 weeks with food and housing provided along with total immersion into seal pup rehabilitation. For more information see our website at sealrescue.org. Contact Jackie Ballerone at <iwncc(a)aol.com> and please include your CV. Island Wildlife Natural Care Centre 322 Langs Road Salt Spring Island, BC V8K1N3 250-537-0777 ************************************** Get a sneak peak of the all-new AOL at http://discover.aol.com/memed/aolcom30tour

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