September 2009 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Open position at the Norwegian Polar Institute
by Harald Roar Lind 18 Sep '09

18 Sep '09

We are seeking a person that will be responsible for performing field-based research programmes in the Arctic and the Antarctic that are relevant to the institute's mandate. The successful applicant will be responsible for the monitoring and management of the institutes' seabird monitoring programs at Spitsbergen. The job includes: planning research programmes; writing grant applications to help support the work financially; conducting the research in the field; analyzing the resulting data; reporting the results to the Institute's seabird data-bases; and doing basic reporting and administration of the research programme(s). The job also includes providing input and advice in environmental management processes. Research activities are expected to result in an active publication record in journals of high international quality (peer-reviewed). Qualifications The Norwegian Polar Institute has an opening for a full-time, permanent research position in avian ecology in Polar Regions. Potential candidates must have a PhD with a background in seabird population biology and ecology. Expertise in statistical analyses, the ability to publish in high-quality international scientific journals and the ability to secure research grants must be documented. An ability and willingness to work in multidisciplinary research groups and practical experience from field-related research programmes are important qualifications. Salary The salary will commensurate with the qualifications of the successful candidate, according to the Norwegian State salary code 1109 - 1183, scale 57 - 68 (NOK 435.500 - 533.300). The work place is the Norwegian Polar Institute in Tromsø, Norway, with the possibility for extended periods of placement at the NPI office in Longyearbyen on Svalbard. The position is open, and the successful candidate should be able to start as soon as possible. General The Norwegian State Administration strives to mirror the diversity of its population and thereby achieve a balanced mix of age, gender and ethnic backgrounds among its employees. Hence, candidates with immigrant backgrounds and women are encouraged to apply for the position. Further inquiries about the position may be directed to Research Director Kim Holmén, e-mail: kim.holmen(a)npolar.no<mailto:kim.holmen@npolar.no>, phone: +47 77 75 05 30, of Head of Biodiversity Section, Kit Kovacs, e-mail: kit.kovacs(a)npolar.no<mailto:kit.kovacs@npolar.no>, phone: +47 77 75 05 26. The application deadline is 31 October 2009. The application should include a CV, names of at least two references, a list of publications and details of your relevant qualifications and experience. The application is to be submitted electronically on the application form available at "Apply for this job" on this page. If this is not feasible, printed applications may be sent to the Norwegian Polar Institute, Polar Environmental Centre, NO-9296 Tromsø, Norway. All applications can be handled confidentially until the application deadline. Thereafter, a public list of applicants will be prepared. Applicants who wish to reserve their applications from the public list must give reasons for this in their applications. In accordance with new public information laws, information about an applicant can be made public even if the applicant has requested not be included from the public list of applicants, cf. Freedom of Information Act, Section 25, 2nd paragraph.

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New article on Sperm Whale related to jumbo squid in Guaymas basin, Gulf of California, Mexico.
by Janitzio 17 Sep '09

17 Sep '09

Dear MARMAM: The Following paper has been published online in Marine Biodiversity Records Juan-Pablo Gallo-Reynoso, Janitzio Égido-Villarreal and Elsa-María Coria-Galindo. 2009. Sperm whale distribution and diving behaviour in relation to presence of jumbo squid in Guaymas Basin, Mexico. Marine Biodiversity Records. doi:10.1017/S1755267209990571 Abstract Sperm whale Physeter macrocephalus distribution was compared to acoustic backscatter observations in the Gulf of California. Forty-three sperm whale groups totalling 813 individuals were encountered during 28 observation days Sperm whales occurred over deep waters (mean depth = 659 mrange: 3001800 m). A significant correlation was found between the whales' maximum depth of dive and depth of the acoustic scattering layer (N = 36r2 = 0.944P = 0.000). We observed sperm whales dive to the scattering layer and then surface with prey in their jaws: jumbo squid Dosidicus gigas (10 events) and unidentified fish (one event). The average depth of sperm whale foraging dives to the scattering layer was 342 m the average diving time was 23 minutesand the average surface interval between foraging dives was 6 minutes. Sperm whales spent 75% of their time diving and 25% on the surface. Swimming speed at the surface was slower when whales reached scattering layers during a dive (2.4 km/h) compared to dives when no scattering layer was reached (8.9 km/h). Our results establish a direct link between sperm whale distribution and presence of its prey in the Gulf of California. For more information contact Dr. Juan Pablo Gallo: jpgallo(a)ciad.mx Kind regards, Janitzio MDI Janitzio Égido Villarreal Investigador Asociado Laboratorio de Ecofisiología CIAD - Unidad Guaymas Carretera al Varadero Nacional Km 6.6 Col. Las Playitas Guaymas, Sonora 85480 MEXICO Tel.: 01(622) 22 1 65 33 Ext. 117

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Corrected Job posting for UNE/MARC
by Keith Matassa 15 Sep '09

15 Sep '09

Hi, there was an error in the submission email address for this position in the initial posting. The submission email address has been corrected ( careers(a)une.edu) would you please repost this Position Announcement: Animal Care/Laboratory Technician University of New England Marine Animal Rehabilitation Center (UNE/MARC) The University of New England Marine Animal Rehabilitation Center (UNE/MARC) is seeking a qualified team orientated candidate to fill a 1yr grant funded Animal Care /Laboratory Technician position. The position has the potential for renewal beyond the first year provided that funds are procured through outside sources. The successful applicant will have a direct role in day to day animal care, helping train and oversee volunteers and take a lead role in conducting necropsies, assisting staff with ongoing research, and maintaining, repairing and upgrading closed sea water systems. Responsibilities: Assist MARC veterinarians, the Senior Animal Care Technician and other staff in all aspects of animal husbandry including but not limited to animal handling, administration of medical treatments, diet preparation, laboratory analyses, medical record and database upkeep, and assisting with maintenance of infrastructure that supports MARC. Sharing coverage of the 24 hour standing hotline will be required. Additional duties may be assigned by the Senior Animal Care Technician or the Rehabilitation Coordinator. Qualifications: Qualified candidates will have a Bachelor's degree in Biology, Wildlife Management, Zoology or related field or possess Veterinary Technician credentials. The candidate should have experience working with marine animals in a captive environment. Plumbing, sea-water system maintenance, and necropsy experience are a plus. Candidates must be able to demonstrate the ability to work independently, work as a team member, supervise volunteers and be adept at both animal husbandry and medical procedures. Candidates must be able to work with, handle and restrain animals ranging in size from 15-300 lbs. For general information on the MARC facility, please go to UNE's Website http://www.une.edu/cas/msc/. Applications should include a cover letter and resume and be submitted to careers(a)une.edu. No phone calls. Review of the applications will begin on October 1, and continue until the position is filled. The University of New England is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and strongly encourages the application of candidates of diverse backgrounds. Please see our website (http://www.une.edu/) for additional information. Thank you Keith Keith A. Matassa Marine Animal Rehabilitation Coordinator UNE/MARC 11 Hills Beach Road Biddeford, Maine 04005 office 207-602-2670 cell 207-468-9621 kmatassa(a)une.edu

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Marine Mammals in a Renewable Age Workshop
by Nicola Quick 15 Sep '09

15 Sep '09

This is the final announcement for the full day workshop Marine Mammals in a Renewable Age to be held on 11 October 2009 prior to the SMM Biennial Conference on the Biology of Marine Mammals in Quebec, Canada. Marine Mammals in a Renewable Age Potential Conflicts between Marine Mammals and Wave and Tidal Developments: Monitoring, Mitigation, Best Practice and Future Research Full day workshop, prior to the 18th Biennial Conference on the Biology of Marine Mammals Quebec, Canada 11 October 2009 The main focus of this workshop will be the potential conflicts between marine mammals and wave and tidal developments and aims to bring together all scientists working on these issues to discuss experiences, methodologies and data. The workshop will take the form of four sessions including presentations from among others; Minerals and Management Service, The Sea Mammal Research Unit, Oregon State University, The Scottish Association for Marine Science and AECOM. A full program can be viewed at http://www.smru.co.uk/media/20248/marine%20mammals%20in%20a%20renewable% 20age.pdf There is still time to register for this workshop, by following the instructions on the marine mammal society web site at: http://www.marinemammalogy.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=categor y&id=918&Itemid=215 <http://www.marinemammalogy.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=catego ry&id=918&Itemid=215> The workshop will take place on Sunday, 11 October 2009 from 8:00 AM -5:00 PM in room 206b. There will be a small registration fee of $15.00 USD/$16.00 CAD which will include lunch and refreshments. SMRU Limited, Scottish Oceans Institute University of St Andrews North Haugh St Andrews

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IMATA Workshops & Classes
by IMATA 15 Sep '09

15 Sep '09

The International Marine Animal Trainers' Association (IMATA) is pleased to announce the following workshops and courses available in 2009: The Essentials of Animal Training Sunday, November 1, 2009 IMATA has invited Ocean Embassy to conduct The Essentials of Animal Training class. The instructors will expose students to critical developments in behavioral research and current trends in animal training. A variety of multi-media presentations featuring computer graphics, video, and interactive demonstrations will be used. Class Details: -Proper behavior shaping and effective maintenance -Environmental influences on behavior -Effective environmental enrichment -Reactive/Proactive animal care -Animal acclimation safety -Interpersonal communication and teamwork Certificates of course completion will be provided and presented to participants. Class is from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm and will be held at Georgia Aquarium. Due to space considerations, ONLY SEVERAL SPOTS REMAIN for these seminars. ENROLL NOW at http://cts.vresp.com/c/?IMATA/3ee1fb890c/bb616a2863/3a0774ce4e/63 ================= Advanced Behavior Management Wednesday, November 4, 2009 Ocean Embassy will also present the curriculum of this advanced class which will focus on advanced behavior modification for multi-species, and accelerated staff development to improve behavior programs. Class Details: -Behavior disorders and case studies (their causes, intervention, treatment and successful outcomes) -Behavior medicine -Emergency intervention for handling large animals -Aggression management Certificates of course completion will be provided and presented to participants. Class is from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm and will be held at the Atlanta Hyatt Regency. Note: Students may enroll in Advanced Behavior Management as a stand-alone class. There are NO prerequisites. Due to space considerations, ONLY SEVERAL SPOTS REMAIN for these seminars. ENROLL NOW at http://cts.vresp.com/c/?IMATA/3ee1fb890c/bb616a2863/d0e7016bac/63 ================= Career Building Workshop Monday, November 2, 2009 IMATA has invited ABC Dolphin Trainer Academy to host a workshop with emphasis on employability skills and career building. Instructors will provide tips and insights regarding career options, how to build your resume, and how to do a successful interview. Note: This workshop is included with IMATA Conference registration, and open seating will be offered. Conference name badge credentials are required for admission. This workshop is scheduled from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm* and will be held at the Atlanta Hyatt Regency. *workshop starting times are subject to change. REGISTER NOW at http://cts.vresp.com/c/?IMATA/3ee1fb890c/bb616a2863/8e4faef0f8/61 ================= Team Building Workshop: "I've Got Your Six" Monday, November 2, 2009 Randy Pazen will facilitate, "I've Got Your Six" - a team building workshop that is based on the story of a Navy SEAL who saved the day and taught his organization the true meaning of teamwork. Pazen is a storyteller with a mission to improve the way people view their work and their workplace. This highly interactive workshop will focus on how to continue to grow the leadership team(s) and it will introduce a series of skills and tools designed to address common challenges faced by teams, and develop a strategic plan to align our efforts with goals and initiatives. Note: This workshop is included with IMATA Conference registration, and open seating will be offered. Conference name badge credentials are required for admission. This workshop is scheduled from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm* and will be held at the Atlanta Hyatt Regency. *workshop starting times are subject to change. REGISTER NOW at http://cts.vresp.com/c/?IMATA/3ee1fb890c/bb616a2863/64e3b6d47b/61 ================= Panel Discussion: Artificial Insemination & Reproductive Management Monday, November 2, 2009 Holley Muraco will lead a "workshop-style" open panel discussion featuring experts chosen based on their experience in the training of behaviors that improve the reproductive management of marine mammals. Behaviors useful for artificial insemination will be a priority, but behaviors beneficial for natural breeding efforts and research will also be covered. Discussion topics may include: semen collection, urine, saliva, fecal and blood sampling for hormonal analysis, ultrasound layout, vaginal swabs, and vaginal endoscopy for cetaceans and pinnipeds. Goals of the workshop will be to provide participants with current progress of reproductive management behaviors, provide suggestions on how to start a reproductive behavior training program, trouble shoot problems with reproductive behaviors currently being trained, brainstorm creative and novel approaches to training reproductive behaviors for difficult species, and discuss the importance of working towards genetically healthy, long-term captive populations of marine mammals. Note: This workshop is included with IMATA Conference registration, and open seating will be offered. Conference name badge credentials are required for admission. This workshop is scheduled from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm* and will be held at the Atlanta Hyatt Regency. *workshop starting times are subject to change. REGISTER NOW at http://cts.vresp.com/c/?IMATA/3ee1fb890c/bb616a2863/aa47a03ef9/61 ================= [http://cts.vresp.com/c/?IMATA/3ee1fb890c/bb616a2863/afca6ab1c0] Copyright 2009 International Marine Animal Trainers' Association 1200 South Lake Shore Drive Chicago, Illinois 60605-2490 U.S.A. Phone: (312) 692-3193 Fax: (312) 939-2216 www.imata.org [http://cts.vresp.com/c/?IMATA/3ee1fb890c/bb616a2863/d8640f3a31] ______________________________________________________________________ If you no longer wish to receive these emails, please reply to this message with "Unsubscribe" in the subject line or simply click on the following link: http://cts.vresp.com/u?3ee1fb890c/bb616a2863/mlpftw ______________________________________________________________________ This message was sent by IMATA using VerticalResponse International Marine Animal Trainers' Association 1200 South Lake Shore Drive Chicago, Illinois 60605-2490 U.S.A. Phone: (312) 692-3193 Fax: (312) 939-2216 Read the VerticalResponse marketing policy: http://www.verticalresponse.com/content/pm_policy.html

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Marine Mammal Behavior & Cognition Internship - University of Southern Mississippi
by Kuczaj Laboratory 15 Sep '09

15 Sep '09

The University of Southern Mississippi Psychology Department is offering a Marine Mammal Behavior and Cognition internship to college juniors, seniors and recent graduates for the spring of 2010. College credits for the internship are awarded by the University of Southern Mississippi. Interns will work with faculty and graduate student researchers and will have an opportunity to help in the analysis of data from USM’s Mississippi Wild Dolphin Project, a boat-based research project surveying the Mississippi Gulf Coast bottlenose dolphin population. Interns may assist in the analysis of environmental, behavioral, and acoustic data, as well as photo-ID. In the research laboratory, interns will gain experience in different areas, such as behavioral analysis using video and ethogram data and acoustic analyses of a variety of cetacean species, including killer whales, sperm whales, beaked whales, and bottlenose and rough-tooth dolphins. Interns may also have the opportunity to assist graduate students in the collection of behavioral data of captive rough-tooth dolphins and bottlenose dolphins. Interns are also encouraged to complete a small personal research project on a topic relevant to their research interests. The internship is a full time voluntary position, and students are responsible for their own transportation and housing arrangements. Students interested in the Marine Mammal Behavior and Cognition internship are required to send: applicationresumeletter of intent including career goals and reasons for wanting the internship (what you expect to contribute and gain from the internship)unofficial or official copy of your transcriptsat least two letters of recommendation (preferably from college professors who know you personally) All materials should be sent to: Internship Coordinator Department of Psychology The University of Southern Mississippi 118 College Drive, # 5025 Hattiesburg, MS 39406-5025 Materials may arrive separately or together, but the complete application must be postmarked by December 1st. We encourage interested applicants to become familiar with the research conducted by the Marine Mammal Behavior and Cognition Lab. For more information, please visit our website at www.usm.edu/psy-kuczaj or you can email the internship coordinator at kuczaj_laboratory(a)yahoo.com.

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Humpback whale found stranded and dead in West Java, Indonesia
by Putu Mustika 15 Sep '09

15 Sep '09

Dear Marmam-ers, Just news flash to inform that a humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) was found stranded and dead in Cipatujah Tasikmalaya, West Java, Indonesia in the morning of Monday, 14 September 2009. The local news reported that its length was 11.75m, abdominal circumference 4m, and weighing approx 4 tonnes. They estimated that the whale stranded around 3am on Monday. Pictures can be found here (though the news is in Indonesian): http://taselamedia.wordpress.com/2009/09/14/ikan-raksasa-terdampar-di-panta… This is the second recorded stranding of humpback whale (first one was in Bali in October 2007), and the third recorded sighting (first one was in Lamalera in June 2005 - Benjamin Kahn pers. comm.) in Indonesia post colonial time. Since my location is in Australia at the moment, I'm trying to find someone in West Java who could rescue a piece of tissue for DNA analysis. Not sure if it will work, for the villagers already started cutting the whale, but if we can get a hold on the tissue, it would be a great compliment to the humpback whale sample that we obtained from south Bali in October 2007; report of which can be found in the paper below (Raffles Bulletin of Zoology vol 57 no 1, 2009). This event again highlights the importance of Indonesia as migratory corridors of great whales, and how we still need to fortify our stranding networks along the Archipelago. sincerely, Putu Liza Kusuma Mustika ('Icha') PhD Candidate - SEES, James Cook University, Australia Office Australia: +61 7 4782 5262 Mustika, P. L. K., Hutasoit, P., Madusari, C. C., Purnomo, F. S., Setiawan, A., Tjandra, K. & Prabowo, W. E. 2009, 'Whale strandings in Indonesia, including the first record of a humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) in the Archipelago', The Raffles Bulletin of Zoology, vol. 57, no. 1, pp. 199-206.

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Published paper on Sperm Whale's population genetics and social structure
by Ana Pinela 15 Sep '09

15 Sep '09

To whom it may concern: The following paper has been published in this month's issue of Canadian Journal of Zoology: Population genetics and social organization of the sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) in the Azores inferred by microsatellite analyses A. M. Pinela, S. Quérouil, S. Magalhães, M. A. Silva, R. Prieto, J. A. Matos, and R. S. Santos Can. J. Zool. 87(9): 802–813 (2009) | doi:10.1139/Z09-066 Abstract: In the northeast Atlantic Ocean, the archipelago of the Azores is frequented by female–offspring groups of sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus L., 1758), as well as large males. The Azores apparently constitute both a feeding ground and a reproduction site. Little is known about the population and group structure of sperm whales in the area. We analysed 151 sloughed skin and biopsy samples collected from 2002 to 2004. Molecular analyses involved genetic tagging using 11 microsatellite loci and molecular sexing. Our objectives were to determine the population genetic structure, compare relatedness within and between social groups, infer kinship, and estimate the age of males at dispersal. Results suggest that individuals visiting the archipelago of the Azores belong to a single population. High genetic diversity and absence of inbreeding suggest that the population is recovering from whaling. Individuals sampled in close association are highly related, as well as those observed in the same area on the same day, suggesting that secondary social groups (i.e., the union of primary social units) are largely but not exclusively composed of relatives. Probable mother–offspring and full-sibling pairs were identified. Age of males at dispersal was estimated at 16.6 years, which was well above previous estimates for this species. Here is the link to the Abstract page: http://rparticle.web-p.cisti.nrc.ca/rparticle/AbstractTemplateServlet?calyL… If you are interested in a reprint please write to one of these e-mail addresses: ana.pinela(a)gmail.com or anapinela(a)ub.edu Thank you very much in advance. Best regards, Ana Pinela Ana Pinela, Ph.D. Candidate University of Barcelona Faculty of Biology Dpt. Animal Biology Av. Diagonal 645 08028 Barcelona Spain _________________________________________________________________ Acesse seu Hotmail de onde quer que esteja através do celular. Clique aqui. http://www.windowslive.com.br/celular/home.asp?utm_source=MSN_Hotmail&utm_m…

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Job Advertisement: Protected Species Division Chief - NOAA Fisheries Pacific Islands Region
by Charles Littnan 15 Sep '09

15 Sep '09

Aloha All- We are seeking applicants to fill a position as the Chief of the Protected Species Division of the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center (PIFSC), located in Honolulu, Hawaii. The division conducts research supporting the recovery and sustainability of marine mammals and sea turtles in the Pacific Islands Region. The research covers a broad range of topics in life history, ecology, health and disease and demography. Duties include: provides program management and supervision for the division; provides scientific advice and status reports of recovery, research and enhancement efforts for protected species; presents results of scientific findings at national and international venues; publishes reports and scientific reports; conducts innovative research to meet management needs and enhance the conservation of protected species; serves as primary contact to the Pacific Islands Regional Office (PIRO) and facilitates interoffice communications; supports Biological Opinion consultation and NEPA activities with PIFSC and PIRO staff; serves as an expert panel member for intra- and inter-agency work shops/groups. To apply: Application under this announcement requires the applicant to apply through USAJOBS at www.usajobs.opm.gov. The submission of anything other than a USAJOBS resume and the electronic assessment may result in your application not being considered under this vacancy announcement. To apply go to http://www.usajobs.opm.gov/to find this announcement (NMF-PIC-2009-0031) and then click the 'Apply Online' button. You will be redirected to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration website to complete and submit a specially designed assessment. Applicants will be able to apply online until 12:00 midnight Eastern Time on September 30, 2009. ** This is a Federal Full Time Position. Applicants must be US Citizens to be eligible for this position.** To learn more about this position, please go to www,usajobs.gov site. Cheers, Charles Charles Littnan Leader, Hawaiian Monk Seal Research Program NOAA Fisheries 1601 Kapiolani Blvd. Suite 1100 Honolulu HI 96814 P: 808-944-2171 F: 808-941-0307

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First Announcement of the 24th Conference of the European Cetacean Society
by Verfuss Ursula Dr. 14 Sep '09

14 Sep '09

First Announcement of the 24th Conference of the European Cetacean Society The German Oceanographic Museum is proud to announce the 24th Conference of the European Cetacean Society (ECS), entitled "Marine Mammal Populations: Challenges for Conservation in the Next Decade" The conference will be held from 22nd to 24th of March 2010 in Stralsund, Germany, a beautiful mediaeval UNESCO world heritage town. The accompanying workshops will take place on the 20th and 21st of March 2010, and an excursion will be offered on the 25th of March. Submission of abstracts on the conference theme and other topics is welcome, and will be available soon on www.europeancetaceansociety.eu. The deadline for abstract submission, workshop applications and support requests will be Friday, 13th November 2009. Further information will be provided in the second announcement and on the conference website to be available within the next few weeks at www.ozeaneum.de/en/ecs-2010.html. If you have any questions, please contact ecs2010(a)meeresmuseum.de We are looking forward to welcoming you in Stralsund in March 2010! On behalf of the Organizing Committee for the ECS 2010, Ursula Verfuss

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