June 2010 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Marine Mammal Scientist and Passive Acoustic Monitoring System (PAMS) Operational Technician Vacancies
by Nick Robinson 26 Oct '10

26 Oct '10

Gardline Environmental Ltd is a member of the Gardline Marine Sciences Limited Group of Companies and are a successful Environmental contractor, operating a fleet of inshore boats, conducting major integrated offshore projects on a worldwide basis and inshore projects for major clients in the UK and overseas. As part of our continued growth there are immediate vacancies for the following positions: PAMS OPERATIONAL TECHNICIAN As a PAMS Operational Technician you will be responsible for the maintenance, despatch and receipt of all PAMS equipment. In addition, you will be expected to keep up to date with national and international development of PAMS and implement accordingly. Applicants will ideally be of degree calibre or equivalent in a relevant discipline and possess a full comprehension with the technical composition and use of PAMS. Ideally the candidate would have an understanding of marine mammals, their biology and identification and previous marine survey experience would be advantageous. MARINE MAMMAL SCIENTIST Reporting to the current Marine Wildlife Business Manager, you will be expected to undertaken and develop the application of marine mammal observations, monitoring and recording systems, the compilation and preparation of reports and the processing of observational data and possess a sound knowledge marine mammals, their biology and identification. Ideally you will be of degree calibre or equivalent, and demonstrate the ability to lead and develop projects from implementation to completion and illustrate sound commercial awareness. You will need to be a confident individual with a can do attitude and enjoy being challenged. Previous relevant marine oil and gas or renewable energy industry experience is advantageous. Both positions require the individual to spend in the region of 60 days at sea, dependent on project requirements, with the remaining time being office based (Great Yarmouth). As well as a competitive salary, these roles also include offshore allowances and a range of employee benefits, such as; personal and professional development, a further range of employee benefits and world wide travel opportunities. To apply for these positions please email your CV and covering letter to Allan Tucker, Recruitment Officer on recruitment(a)gardline.com. Closing date: 8th April 2009 Nick Robinson ________________________________ CONFIDENTIALITY - This e-mail and any attached files contain information that is confidential and/or may be subject of legal privilege, intended only for use by the addressee(s). If you are not the intended recipient or the person responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, please be advised that you have received this message in error and that any dissemination, copying or use of this message or attachment is strictly forbidden, as is the disclosure of the information therein. If you have received this message in error please notify the sender immediately and preserve this confidentiality by deleting the message. No binding contract will result from this e-mail until and unless an officer, on behalf of the sender, signs a written document. Sender accepts no responsibility for the completeness or accuracy of this message as it has been transmitted over public networks. Unless otherwise specifically stated any views or opinions are solely those of the author and do not represent those of the sender Company.

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Postdoctoral Research Fellow – Steller Sea Lion Foraging Energetics
by David Rosen 12 Jul '10

12 Jul '10

Postdoctoral Research Fellow – Steller Sea Lion Foraging Energetics The University of British Columbia Marine Mammal Research Unit (MMRU) invites highly motivated and experienced applicants to apply for the position of Post Doctoral Research Fellow. The appointment is to develop and manage a research program in the area of marine mammal foraging energetics. The research will focus on the foraging energetics and diving behavior of captive Steller sea lions as part of an integral component of the MMRU research goals. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing and implementing the science plan at the UBC Open Water Research Station. This facility allows researchers to study behavior and energetics of Steller sea lions using trained animals to carry out experiments in the open ocean environment. For more details see: www.marinemammal.org/research/openwater/index.php You must have a PhD in biological science and at least 2 years of experience in conducting and managing field- or lab-based research projects. This should include a proven ability to lead and motivate research teams. Experience with the practical and analytical techniques required to conduct behavioral and energetic studies would be advantageous. You must also have excellent writing, communication and networking skills, illustrated by a strong publication record and evidence of effective communication with the scientific community. The post will be based at the University of British Columbia’s Fisheries Centre in Vancouver. However, significant time will also be spent at the UBC Open Water Research Station located at a remote location away from the University campus. The position is under the direct supervision of the Dr Andrew Trites and Dr David Rosen with support from the Office Manager. They will directly supervise research technicians at the Open Water facility. The position will also work closely with Aquarium training and husbandry staff. The post is for 1 year and will start as soon as practical. UBC hires on the basis of merit and is committed to employment equity. We encourage all qualified persons to apply. However, Canadians and permanent residents of Canada will be given priority. Interested candidates should send a letter of application, curriculum vitae, and list of referees to Dr Andrew Trites: consortium(a)zoology.ubc.ca by no later than MONDAY APRIL 12, 2010.

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NOAA Requests Comment on Fish Imports and Marine Mammals
by Mike Simpkins 08 Jul '10

08 Jul '10

Dear MARMAM list members, NOAA is requesting public comment on options for implementing parts of the Marine Mammal Protection Act that address the incidental catch of marine mammals in foreign fisheries. The Federal Register notice (available at http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2010/pdf/2010-10158.pdf) describes the options the United States is considering for assessing whether foreign fisheries whose products are exported to the United States meet U.S. standards to protect marine mammals while fishing. The notice also describes options for working with countries to reduce their fisheries’ effects on marine mammals through capacity building, training, and technology transfer. “A large portion of the fish Americans consume is imported,” said Eric Schwaab, NOAA assistant administrator for NOAA’s Fisheries Service. “With this notice, we are looking for ways to lessen the effects of fishing on marine mammals worldwide, and to level the playing field for our own fishermen, who take many protective measures when fishing to ensure the survival of marine mammal species.” Commercial fishermen in the United States must comply with the Marine Mammal Protection Act, the Endangered Species Act, and other laws and regulations that often specify what kind of fishing gear they can use, as well as how, when, and where fishing can take place, in order to reduce the number of marine mammals killed or injured by fishing gear. However, marine mammals are found around the world and interact with a wide variety of fisheries. International collaboration through exchange of technology and information may help control and minimize effects on marine mammals. In this initial phase, NOAA is looking to gather as much information on the subject as possible. If NOAA moves forward in creating regulations on this subject, the public will have additional opportunities to comment. Members of the public are invited to comment by 5 p.m. Eastern Time on June 29, 2010 via electronic comment at www.regulations.gov, fax (301-713–2313) or mail (mail to: Director, Office of International Affairs, Attn: MMPA Fish Import Provisions, NMFS, F/IA, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910).

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4-18 JULY, 2 volunteers needed in the Strait of Gibraltar
by Pauline Gauffier 29 Jun '10

29 Jun '10

2 Volunteers needed urgently for fin/sperm whale research in the Strait of Gibraltar : DUE TO LAST MINUTE CANCELLATIONS, WE NEED 2 EXTRA VOLUNTEERS FROM 4-18 JULY. The research group CIRCE (http://www.circe.biz) is seeking applications from volunteers to help with fieldwork on fin and sperm whales in the Strait of Gibraltar. Project: The fin whales observed in the Strait of Gibraltar are in migration between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea while sperm whales’ sightings are mainly foraging activities. Both species are still recovering from years of hunting. Due to the high and increasing maritime traffic in the Strait, at least 2 ship strikes have been observed with fin whales since 1999 and 3 with sperm whales, probably more remaining unknown. Therefore, we need to assess for this population the risk of collision with tankers or ferries. We will use theodolite tracking from a land station to find the main routes for the fin/sperm whales as well as any behavioural changes in relation to boat movements. Volunteers should be prepared to long working days on the sun, as well as data entry when bad weather. Volunteers should be available FROM 4-18 JULY 2010 (see http://www.circe.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=93&Itemid… and http://circe-volunteers-2009.blogspot.com for last year project blog). You will be responsible for your transport to and from the main centre in Pelayo-Algeciras (Cadiz), but once there, we will provide accommodation, food and transport to the land stations. Successful applicants will: - have a mature attitude towards marine mammal research - be autonomous and quickly operational - be able to live and work constructively with others in a team - speak fluently English and/or Spanish Preference will be given to those who: - have previous experience in theodolite handling, including whale tracking - have previous relevant marine mammal field experience Applicants should send an email introducing themselves. The email should include an outline of why you would like to work on this project, your qualifications and previous experience. Please also attach a brief CV. For more information, see http://www.circe.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=93&Itemid… (also available in Spanish and French) or contact me. All the best Pauline <°)))< Pauline GAUFFIER CIRCE (Conservation, Information and Research on Cetaceans), SPAIN http://www.circe.biz _________________________________________________________________ Installez gratuitement les nouvelles Emoch'ticones ! http://www.ilovemessenger.fr/emoticones/telecharger-emoticones-emochticones…

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BP oil and cetaceans
by William Rossiter 29 Jun '10

29 Jun '10

This link is a aerial video showing some of the GoM surface affected by the BP oil. About six minutes in it begins to show cetaceans. This appears to be a personal effort to document the event: < http://www.youtube.com/v/pxDf-KkMCKQ&hl=es_ES&fs=1& > CSI would appreciate knowing of current scientific surveys regarding potential cetacean impacts from this event. Thank you, Bill William W. Rossiter President Cetacean Society International P.O. Box 953, Georgetown, CT 06829 USA t/c: 203.770.8615, f: 860.561.0187 rossiter(a)csiwhalesalive.org www.csiwhalesalive.org

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Sea Watch Foundation: Cetacean Survey Training Course July 2010
by Gemma Veneruso 28 Jun '10

28 Jun '10

SEA WATCH FOUNDATION Cetacean Survey Training Courses in New Quay, West Wales Join a short course to learn all about British cetaceans, how to survey for them, and contribute to their conservation! Two-days weekend course, 17-18th July 2010 The course will consist of illustrated lectures and video presentations as well as headland watches and boat surveys aboard a local research vessel. The area where land and boat trips will be undertaken is the Cardigan Bay Special Area of Conservation (SAC), a place well-known for the presence and high sighting frequency of bottlenose dolphins (the largest population in the UK), harbour porpoises and grey seals. These populations are protected in the SAC following the 1992 EU Species and Habitat Directive. The Sea Watch Foundation is the most experienced organisation in the UK for training observers and students interested in marine mammals, having run courses for over ten years. It has provided training for staff from all three national statutory conservation agencies, the Environment Agency, CEFAS, Department of the Environment, Wildlife Trusts, Royal Navy, and MMOs working with the oil and gas industries. Most of the field guides on cetaceans on the market in UK have actually been written or had consultations from the Sea Watch Foundation. Thus we hope we can guarantee a very high level training course given by highly experienced staff. The lectures and videos will focus on general biology and classification of cetaceans, species identification, conservation issues facing UK cetaceans, and recommended monitoring survey methods. The course will be based at New Quay, Ceredigion, West Wales, where our Welsh office is based, and will provide an unparalleled opportunity to see marine mammals in the wild and to contribute to cetacean conservation in Britain. The practical element of the course will combine both land and boat-based surveys allowing participants to directly learn how to conduct systematic watches and fill in standardised recording forms. Land and Boat-based work will teach participants the skills needed for: identifying the various cetaceans species found in the area estimating group size and distinguishing between calves, juveniles and adults determining cetacean behaviours assessing sea state and other key environmental features learning some basic photographic techniques aimed at identifying single individuals For further information go to www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk or contact Gemma Veneruso (gemma.veneruso(a)seawatchfoundation.org.uk) If you would like to apply download an application form from the website and post along with a cheque to: Sea Watch Foundation/Training Courses Paragon House Wellington Place New Quay SA45 9NR Wales, UK _________________________________________________________________ http://clk.atdmt.com/UKM/go/195013117/direct/01/ We want to hear all your funny, exciting and crazy Hotmail stories. Tell us now

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Job Posting: Bioacoustics Research Program, Cornell Univ. - Research Analyst
by Aaron N. Rice 28 Jun '10

28 Jun '10

*Research Analyst (Technician IV)* The Bioacoustics Research Program (BRP) at Cornell University's Lab of Ornithology is looking to fill multiple positions at the Research Analyst level. BRP integrates across the fields of animal behavior, ecology, software engineering and electrical engineering in order to understand how animals produce, perceive, and use sound within their natural environment. BRP collects and analyzes acoustic data from oceans around the world to understand the spatial and temporal occurrence of marine animal species (primarily cetaceans) based on the acoustic detections of their sounds. Research Analysts perform acoustic analysis of sound recordings, which involves organizing and managing large sets of acoustic data, and analyzing these data using specialized acoustical software. Research Analysts will also collaborate with other biologists as well as signal processing engineers to develop and expand BRP's software tools, and generate figures and materials related to ambient sound analysis and its impact on marine mammals and other species. Opportunities will exist for participating in the generation of technical reports and peer-reviewed publications, occasionally training undergraduate students, and participating in BRP's Sound Analysis Workshop, which trains researchers from around the world in sound analysis. Applicants must have a Bachelor's Degree, and a degree in biology is preferred. For detailed information on the required and preferred qualifications, and the application procedure, please see the Cornell HR website (http://hr.cornell.edu/jobs/positions.html) and search for position 12734. For any questions about the position, please contact Aaron Rice (arice(a)cornell.edu) /Cornell// University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and Educator./ -- Aaron N. Rice, Ph.D. Science Director Bioacoustics Research Program Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology Cornell University 159 Sapsucker Woods Rd. Ithaca, NY 14850-1999 Email: arice(a)cornell.edu Web: http://www.nbb.cornell.edu/neurobio/aaronrice

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Literature Request: Marine Mammal Marks in Ocean Sediment
by Lora L Reeve 27 Jun '10

27 Jun '10

Aloha All: As part of my graduate work, I am writing a review paper on marks left in ocean sediment by marine mammal activities (demonstrated or hypothesized), such as foraging. This could be cetaceans, pinnipeds, or sirenians. The marks usually are long pursuit tracks, round pockmarks, or troughs, but may be other shapes, as well. The literature is pretty scarce. I have a few previous articles, but I am looking for anything else that might be out there. If anyone is willing to share information of any sort, whether published, manuscript, or anecdotal, please send it, in .pdf format if possible, to Lora Reeve at lreeve(a)hawaii.edu Mahalo nui! Lora Lora L Nordtvedt Reeve, MBA Wm. S. Richardson School of Law and Department of Zoology University of Hawai`i at Mānoa 2538 McCarthy Mall, Edmonson 152 Honolulu, HI 96822

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Any Baleen Whale photos from Azores Archipelago?
by João Vaz 27 Jun '10

27 Jun '10

We have been developing a photo ID catalogue for Baleen Whales sited around the Azores archipelago since 2000, mainly from offshore Faial and Pico islands. Species most sited are Fin, Sei and Blue Whales, although we've also identified some Humpback, Minke and Bride Whales has well. We are reaching you in the attempt to collect some more individual photos, in order to find re-sightings from past years and other locations in the archipelago. If you have any Baleen photos taken in a known date and location, we would appreciate if you could send them (with good quality) to *blue.wha(a)gmail.com . *A photo request poster can be seen here http://www.freeimagehosting.net/image.php?58c8f39a3e.jpg, for more detailed info. Best regards. -- }»(((o_) João Vaz Medeiros Master in Marine Ecology and Conservation IMAR/DOP internship

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Dolphin tissue proportions
by Erin Rechsteiner 25 Jun '10

25 Jun '10

Dear Colleagues, I am an MSc candidate working with Dr. Trites in the Marine Mammal Research Unit at UBC, Vancouver, BC, Canada. As part of my thesis research, I am building a bioenergetics model to estimate the prey requirements of Pacific white-sided dolphins (*Lagenorhynchus obliquidens*) on the BC coast. I am writing to request your help in locating data or references to publications that recorded the proportion of blubber, lean tissue or water in the body of the Pacific white-sided dolphin. I am also interested in obtaining these measurements for other dolphins in the *Lagenorhynchus*genus (Atlantic white-sided, Dusky, Peales, White-beaked, Hourglass). Your assistance with this would be greatly appreciated, Thanks very much, Erin -- Erin Rechsteiner MSc Candidate, Zoology Marine Mammal Research Unit, UBC Room 247, AERL, 2202 Main Mall Vancouver, B.C. Canada V6T 1Z4 ph: 604-872-7447

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