January 2015 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New publication - Tsai and Fordyce 2015 ADR in Mysticeti Caperea and Miocaperea
by Cheng-Hsiu Tsai 21 Jan '15

21 Jan '15

Dear colleagues We are pleased to announce a new article: Cheng-Hsiu Tsai and R. Ewan Fordyce 2015 Ancestor-descendant relationships in evolution: origin of the extant pygmy right whale, Caperea marginata. Biology Letters doi: 10.1098/rsbl.2014.0875 http://rsbl.royalsocietypublishing.org/content/11/1/20140875 Abstract Ancestor–descendant relationships (ADRs), involving descent with modification, are the fundamental concept in evolution, but are usually difficult to recognize. We examined the cladistic relationship between the only reported fossil pygmy right whale, †Miocaperea pulchra, and its sole living relative, the enigmatic pygmy right whale Caperea marginata, the latter represented by both adult and juvenile specimens. †Miocaperea is phylogenetically bracketed between juvenile and adult Caperea marginata in morphologically based analyses, thus suggesting a possible ADR—the first so far identified within baleen whales (Cetacea: Mysticeti). The †Miocaperea–Caperea lineage may show long-term morphological stasis and, in turn, punctuated equilibrium. Available at http://rsbl.royalsocietypublishing.org/content/11/1/20140875 or email Tsai: cheng-hsiu.tsai(a)otago.ac.nz<mailto:cheng-hsiu.tsai@otago.ac.nz>; craniata(a)gmail.com<mailto:craniata@gmail.com> Regards and all the best, Tsai Cheng-Hsiu Tsai （蔡政修) PhD student, Department of Geology, University of Otago 360 Leith Walk (Courier) or PO Box 56 (Postal) Dunedin 9054, New Zealand Email: cheng-hsiu.tsai(a)otago.ac.nz<mailto:cheng-hsiu.tsai@otago.ac.nz>; craniata(a)gmail.com<mailto:craniata@gmail.com>

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Research Volunteers are Needed for the Cetacean Fauna Study in Antalya Bay, Turkey
by aylin akkaya 21 Jan '15

21 Jan '15

Doyou what to be a part of ground breaking research we have a perfect positionfor you. The Project: Weare a new NGO in the Turkish Mediterranean Coast, Marine Mammals Research Association(Deniz Memelileri Araştırma Derneği (DMAD)) is aimed at studying cetaceanbiodiversity of the Antalya Bay by gathering data on the fauna description,distribution and habitats. So far, 9 cetacean species were recorded,included bottlenose dolphins, striped dolphins, common dolphins, Risso'sdolphins, Cuvier's beaked whale and even in some rare occasions whales such asthe fin whale and sperm whale. Despite this large biodiversity there haven’tbeen many studies on this region so there is a big gap on the data available.Therefore, the project aims to fulfill the gaps of missing long-term studies inthe area by collecting data on cetacean fauna. This project provides anexcellent opportunity for students and individuals interested in getting moreexperience and knowledge in the field of marine mammal research. Duties and Opportunities Weare looking for volunteers for position of Assistant researcher for the nextsurvey season. The Assistant researchers will be responsible for: (1)Collecting sighting and behavioral data, (2) Organizing photo-ID and (3)entering data. Asa researcher you will have access to intensive training and mentoring: (1) in marine mammals biodiversity, (2)photo-ID, (3) statistics and (4) GIS. You will also get hands on experience inmarine mammal id, boat based and land based observation, marine mammalbehavior, etc. There will be opportunities for longer boat based observationsaboard vessels; these may take two or three days at the time whenever they areavailable. Asa Research Assistant you should expect long working days in the field (from 6to 12 hours per day), and expect to wake up very early (around 4:30 a.m.).The work will be carried under adverse weathers conditions. The typical week isdivided in 3 days of fieldwork 2 days of office work and 2 days for you toenjoy the lovely Turkish Riviera and the city of Antalya. Conditions Assistantresearcher have to be able to live and work with others in a multi culturalteam, have a strong desire to work with marine mammals under any weatherconditions and maintain a professional and hardworking attitude. Thepositions are unpaid and request a contribution from the participants. As anewly formed NGO, the DMAD is a self-funded center and as such it stillrequires a contribution from the assistant researcher in order to fullyfunction. This will be a contribution of 500Euro per month and it coversaccommodation (food cost will be at each responsibility, although this is a lowexpense and should be around 80$ month or less), your contribution will alsoaid in renting the vessels and renting equipment. Plussuccessful applicants will be responsible for their own transportation to andfrom Antalya-Turkey. Positionsfor this season are open starting in March-2015. The minimum commitment time is1 month but longer times have priority. Applicants should send a short email introducingthemselves to akkayaaylin(a)yahoo.com. The email should include an outline of why you would like to work on thisproject. Please also attach a brief CV. There is no deadline to apply.However, approved applications are accepted on a first-come, first serve basis. Cheers,Aylin Akkaya Bas

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Whale Interpretive Centre Hiring a Marine Interpreter / Educator
by David Hunter 20 Jan '15

20 Jan '15

*Marine Interpreter/Educator Job* *The Whale Interpretive Centre* *www.killerwhalecentre.org* <http://www.killerwhalecentre.org> *Project Description* The Whale Interpretive Centre (WIC) is an initiative of the Johnstone Strait Killer Whale Interpretive Centre Society (JSKWICS), a non-profit society. The Whale Interpretive Centre (WIC) was established in Telegraph Cove, BC in 2002 and is committed to marine mammal education and conservation. It aspires to be a 'world class' interpretive centre that inspires and involves the local community as well as many international visitors. The Whale Interpretive Centre is housed in a historical building on the boardwalk of Telegraph Cove and contains displays that feature the marine biodiversity of the local area, the importance of the Michael Bigg Ecological Reserve at Robson Bight, and marine conservation issues. The highlight of the museum is the articulated skeletons of marine and terrestrial mammals (killer whale, minke whale, Pacific white-sided dolphin, harbour seal, pygmy sperm whale, sea otter, river otter and Steller sea lion etc), including a 20m fin whale that is suspended from the ceiling of the building. The museum is open from May through October each year. Staff deliver a variety of educational programs and provide interpretation to the visitors. Structured school programs that focus on marine interconnectedness, adaptations, and marine mammal biology are offered during May, June and September. Specialty tours, evening lectures and special events are also offered throughout the season. The WIC is perfectly situated to reach a large audience, as Telegraph Cove is the main launching point for kayak expeditions, whale watching tours, and is a popular day trip for many north island locals. *Interpreter Job Description* Interpreters are front-line staff at the WIC, providing engaging education to visitors about marine mammals and marine conservation. Their duties include: - Meet and greet local and international visitors - Deliver one-on-one interpretation of displays to visitors - Provide structured presentations and tours to highly diverse audiences from around the world (groups of 30+) - Maintain museum, displays and salt water aquarium - Deliver programs to school groups (K-Grade 12) - Clean and articulate skeletons (as needed) - Facilitate evening events, lectures etc (as needed) - Update websites and social media (Facebook, Twitter) for up to 2 hours a week - Special projects and duties as required *Successful Candidates:* - Are easily approachable, welcoming, and have excellent interpersonal skills - Are comfortable speaking to large groups - Are driven to deliver environmental education - Are practical, resourceful and self-motivated workers - Work well in a goal-oriented team environment - Possess knowledge of marine mammal biology and a strong conservation ethic - Are willing and able to participate in menial labour when required - Can tolerate cold, damp working conditions A second language is an asset, as is formal training in interpretation or environmental education. *** Candidates must be available from May 1 to September 30, 2015 *** *Realities* - Nearest town with accommodation is in the community of Port McNeill – *own vehicle is a necessity*. - The WIC is an un-insulated building above the water and is often drafty and cold. - Physical and, at times, dirty work in addition to the academic. - Need for great independence and initiative. - Repetitive nature of interpretive tours. - Invaluable "hands-on" learning potential and the opportunity to contribute to marine education. - Spectacular location and opportunities to experience beautiful northern Vancouver Island. PLEASE NOTE: This is not a research position *Salary:* Starting Salary: $15/hour, dependent on qualifications and experience. *Application Procedure* Please submit your cover letter, resume and 3 references (2 of which must be work references) to Mary Borrowman by *Friday,* *February 20th, 2015*. Please be sure to indicate period of availability*.* Preferred that candidates apply via email. *We thank all those who apply but only successful applicants will be contacted for an interview.* *Contact Information:* Mary Borrowman JSKWICS - Whale Interpretive Centre P.O. Box 2-3 Telegraph Cove, B.C. V0N 3J0 society(a)killerwhalecentre.org

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Abstract submissions opening FEB 1 for the 21st Biennial in San Francisco!
by Ellen M Hines 20 Jan '15

20 Jan '15

[cid:image001.png@01D034AF.7D93E530] Abstract Submission to Open on February 1, 2015 by SMM <https://www.marinemammalscience.org/author/admin/> We will begin accepting abstract submissions for workshops, oral, speed and poster presentations on February 1st, 2015 for the 21st Biennial Society for Marine Mammalogy Conference, to take place in San Francisco from December 13-18, 2015. The submission deadline is May 15th, 2015. Workshops will be held on December 12-13th. Early bird registration for the conference will open on April 6, 2015. We are bringing together an exciting group of plenary speakers and panels PLUS an unforgettable SMM birthday celebration to close the conference (the Society was founded in San Francisco 21 years ago). We are looking forward to receiving your abstract submissions and hope to see you in San Francisco in December! If you are interested in sponsorships, exhibiting or advertising in our program, please contact us. It¹s gonna be great, Ellen Hines and Frances Gulland Conference Chairs Dan Costa and Sarah Allen Scientific Program Chairs Ellen Hines, PhD Associate Director & Professor of Geography Romberg Tiburon Center for Environmental Studies San Francisco State University 3152 Paradise Drive Tiburon, CA 94920 USA 1 415 338 3512 Fax: 1 415 338 6243 ehines(a)sfsu.edu<mailto:ehines@sfsu.edu> http://rtc.sfsu.edu/research/in_hines.html

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New Training Course: QGIS For Biologists, March 2015
by Colin D. MacLeod 20 Jan '15

20 Jan '15

Training Course - A Introduction To Using QGIS In Biological Research GIS In Ecology will be holding an introductory training course for those who wish to learn how to use the free, open-source GIS software QGIS (also known as Quantum GIS) in all aspects of biological research. The course will be held in Glasgow on the 30th and 31st of March 2015, and it will be taught by Dr. Colin D. MacLeod, who has more than 15 years experience in using GIS for a wide variety of biological purposes. This course is aimed at those just starting to use GIS in their research and who have little or no existing knowledge of this subject area, those who are looking for a free, open source GIS solution for their biological research, and at existing users of commercial GIS software, such as ArcGIS, who wish to learn how to do GIS using QGIS software. Attendance will be limited to a maximum of 15 people, and the course will cost £295 per person (£200 for students, the unwaged and those working for registered charities). To book a place, or for more information, contact info(a)GISinEcology.com. To attend this course, you must bring your own laptop computer and have a working copy of QGIS 2.6 pre-installed on it. You can find information about how to get this software package by searching QGIS in any web browser. At the end of the course, all attendees will receive a certificate of attendance and completion. Glasgow has great transport links and is within half a days travel by car or by fast train links from most cities in the UK. For example, it can be reached in as little as 4h 30mins from London by train. It can also be reached by direct flights from many European cities and the flight time is generally under four hours. The course will be held in central Glasgow at the IET Glasgow Teacher Building (14 St Enoch Square, Glasgow, G1 4DB, UK). Attendees will be responsible for their own accommodation. However, Glasgow provides a wide range of accommodation options to fit most budgets. ================================================================================== GIS IN ECOLOGY - Providing Training, Advice And Consultancy On The Use Of GIS In Ecology Web: www.GISinEcology.com Email: info(a)GISinEcology.com Need to ask a question about using GIS? Try the GIS In Ecology Forum: www.GISinEcology.com/GIS_in_Ecology_forum.htm Books From GIS In Ecology Staff: An Introduction To Using GIS In Marine Biology; RRP: £44.99 An Introduction To Using GIS In Marine Biology: Supplementary Workbook One - Creating Maps Of Species Distribution; RRP: £19:99 An Introduction To Using GIS In Marine Biology: Supplementary Workbook Two - Working With Raster Data Layers; RRP: £19.99 If you wish to purchase these books, visit: http://www.gisinecology.com/Book_Shop.htm To help the environment, please do not print out this email unless it is unavoidable. ================================================================================== --- This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software. http://www.avast.com

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Interdisciplinary Job Posting
by Adam Schaefer 20 Jan '15

20 Jan '15

FAU-Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute is looking for applicants to join our research team Text for Biological Scientist #979543 Posting Date: 1/16/15 This position is located in Fort Pierce, FL, FAU's Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute. Position Summary: This position will assist in statistical data analysis and reporting; field collection and coordination of data and samples for marine mammal, environmental and human health epidemiology research. The position will involve collaborative interdisciplinary research pertaining to a variety of marine mammal related projects in the field and laboratory. Job Duties: Field collection and coordination of data and samples will include both human and wildlife based studies. Participant recruitment in compliance with Institutional Review Board protocols is required. Statistical data analysis and reporting for research related activities as directed Performs office work, record keeping, and data entry under the direction of supervisor Pathology related duties include the proper collection, documentation and archiving of tissues for both diagnostic and research purposes Minimum Requirements: Bachelor's degree in the preferred areas of biology, marine science, public health or environmental science; related fields will be considered. Basic laboratory skills are required. Experience with Microsoft Word, Outlook, Access and Excel required. Experience conducting basic statistical analysis is required. Two years of experience assisting with research on human and/or wildlife population health required. Excellent communication, ability to work in a team and independently, detail-oriented are preferred skills. Work days and hours: Flexible schedule which may include weekend, holidays and nights. Pay range: $33,000-$35,000 Online application must be completed in order to be considered for this position. https://jobs.fau.edu/, reference position number 979543 Questions regarding the position can be directed to the hiring department, Harbor Branch, attention Cathy Rossmell crossmel(a)fau.edu<mailto:crossmel@fau.edu> Special Instructions to the Applicant: Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodation call 561-297-3057 (561-955-8771 TTY/TDD) Florida Atlantic University is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access Institution and is committed to the diversity of its workforce. Adam M. Schaefer, MPH Epidemiologist Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute at Florida Atlantic University 5600 US 1 North, Ft. Pierce, FL 34946 office: 772-242-2311 Ocean Science for a Better World

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Final call for bottlenose dolphin research volunteers at the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre
by CBMWC 20 Jan '15

20 Jan '15

WTSWW_high_res_logoCBMWC logo without boarderCardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre New Quay Wales www.cbmwc.org <http://www.cbmwc.org/> Bottlenose dolphin research volunteers Dedicated to conserving Cardigan Bays marine wildlife through education and research The Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre (CBMWC) is recruiting volunteers for the 2015 season (March to November) to collect data on the marine wildlife of Cardigan Bay and to help run our visitor centre, educational and awareness raising activities. Applications close at midnight on Sunday 25th January. About CBMWC The Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre is based in New Quay, west Wales, UK and is the marine wing of the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales. Since 1996 we have been dedicated to raising awareness of the local marine environment through education and research. Using boat-based and land-based surveys, photo-ID and acoustic studies we monitor bottlenose dolphin, harbour porpoise and Atlantic grey seal populations in the Cardigan Bay Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and the wider Irish Sea. We also run a busy visitor centre as well as an education and activity room which offers marine educational and awareness raising activities for families with young children. Position description Seasonal volunteers are required for specific periods from 23rd March through to 2nd November 2015 to help with our ongoing research, education and awareness-raising programmes concerning the marine wildlife of Cardigan Bay. As CBMWC is run almost entirely by volunteers, this is a fantastic opportunity for you to make a positive contribution to marine wildlife conservation and meet new people who share your interests. You will learn about the species and habitats in Cardigan Bay, gain experience in field work, research methods, data processing, public awareness and education programmes. The data you collect will contribute to long running research studies on bottlenose dolphin site usage, abundance, photo-identification and acoustic studies. There may also be additional opportunities to gain experience in boat handling and seamanship skills. Responsibilities/duties will include (but are not limited to): · Visitor centre operation, including dealing with enquiries and taking boat bookings · Land-based surveys in conjunction with Ceredigion County Council · Boat-based surveys* · Educational and awareness raising activities with children and the general public · Data entry and checking · Updating daily sightings information · Beach cleans · Aquarium maintenance · Cleaning and general upkeep of CBMWC premises * Boat surveys are weather dependent and volunteers take turns to join trips to act as onboard researcher. During times of bad weather, you will spend more time carrying out shore-based activities. Important: You may be expected to work up to 8 hours a day, six days a week. Some training and activities may take place outside of normal office hours. Field work can involve long periods outdoors and in inclement weather. All volunteers are expected to contribute to all CBMWC activities, tasks and field work and to attend all training sessions provided. Person specification: Essential skills · Positive, reliable, responsible, conscientious and mature attitude · Ability to work and live closely with others as part of a small team · Strong work ethic with an ability to work unsupervised · Adaptable and patient (particularly as boat work is weather dependent) · Confident in dealing with the public both face to face and over the telephone · Fluency in English · Willing to ask for help if unsure and admit mistakes Desirable skills · Interest and/or experience of working with children in environmental education · Research and surveying experience · IT skills, including Microsoft Office and GIS · Interest and or/experience in salt water aquaria Please note that enthusiasm for our work and the marine environment is as valued as experience, since full training is provided. Student projects We welcome undergraduate and postgraduate students who require field work support including boat time and office space to conduct their research projects. Please note that we do not have a list of specific project ideas but if you have a project idea in mind, please contact us to discuss whether your ideas are feasible. Time commitment Volunteer positions are available from 23rd March until 2nd November 2015 for five separate blocks ranging from 4 to 9 weeks. You must be able to commit to an entire block and priority will be given to volunteers who are able to commit to more than one block. Applications are encouraged from volunteers who would like to join the team for the entire season and would like gain additional experience in photo-ID analysis, environmental education and volunteer training and coordination. Volunteers living locally who are available on a part-time basis are welcome year round and are greatly appreciated. 2015 volunteering dates · Block A: 23/03/2015-19/04/2015 (4 weeks) · Block B: 20/04/2015-17/05/2015 (4 weeks) · Block C: 18/05/2015-05/07/2015 (7 weeks) · Block D: 06/07/2015-06/09/2015 (9 weeks) · Block E: 07/09/2015-02/11/2015 (8 weeks) Volunteer fee An administration fee of £45 will be required from all successful applicants. Accommodation and expense arrangements Shared accommodation in a comfortable and fully equipped house will be arranged for successful volunteers (where required) at a cost of £55 per week, including fuel bills. Volunteers are responsible for their own food, travel and accommodation costs. Due to payment arrangements with the house owners, accommodation costs are required in advance to cover the cost of each block so before applying please ensure that you can cover this and all other expenses. How to apply Download a seasonal volunteer application form from our website www.cbmwc.org/volunteer/ and email it along with a CV and covering letter (no more than one side of A4) outlining how you meet the personal specification and your motivations for applying to volunteer(a)cbmwc.org with Volunteer application 2015 in your subject line. Incomplete applications will not be assessed so please make sure you complete the form fully, including availability and be sure to attach your CV and covering letter. The closing date for applications is midnight on Sunday 25th January 2015 For further information Visit www.cbmwc.org/ If you have any questions please email volunteer(a)cbmwc.org with an appropriate subject line or call Laura on +44 (0)1545 560224. Laura Mears Project Officer Support our research - adopt a Cardigan Bay dolphin <http://www.cbmwc.org/support-us/adopt-a-cardigan-bay-dolphin/> with the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre Raise money for CBMWC with each internet search you do - it doesn't cost you a penny <http://sites.affilyon.co.uk/CBMWC> http://sites.affilyon.co.uk/CBMWC Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre Patent Slip Building Glanmor Terrace New Quay Ceredigion SA45 9PS Wales, UK Ffon/Phone: 01545 560 224 E-bost/Email: <mailto:info@cbmwc.org> info(a)cbmwc.org Website: <http://www.cbmwc.org> www.cbmwc.org For all the latest news and sightings information, please visit our website, follow us on Twitter and become a fan of our Facebook page <http://www.cbmwc.org> www.cbmwc.org <http://twitter.com/CBMWC> http://twitter.com/CBMWC <http://facebook.com/CBMWC> http://facebook.com/CBMWC Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre is supported by the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Group, a marine interest group of the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales. Helping to conserve Cardigan Bay's marine wildlife through education and research Helpu I warchod bywyd gwyllt morol Bae Ceredigion drwy addysg ac ymchwil ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------- The contents of this email are confidential and are soley for the use of the intended recipient. If you receive this email in error please delete it and notify us either by email or telephone. It is prohibited to copy, forward or otherwise disclose the contents of this email.

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Humpback Whale Field Intensive internship programs in Puerto Rico, USA
by Mithriel MacKay 19 Jan '15

19 Jan '15

Hi All, We still have a few spots left in the Humpback Whale Field Intensive internship programs to join our team in the field in Puerto Rico, USA. Please visit our website (www.Marine-Eco.org) Education Hub ( www.Marine-Eco.org) and Facebook page (www.Facebook.com/researchcenter) for details. Programs run for a week at a time and include vessel and land data collection (behavioral and acoustic), and data analysis using different software. The programs are effective skill builders and our main source of funding for the Humpback Whale Project so please distribute freely! No experience is necessary as the field intensive is designed for people looking to gain experience in cetacean behavioral ecology field research If your questions are not answered from one of our online sites, please fee free to email Mithriel(a)Marine-Eco.org. Cheers and thanks for helping to support our education and research programs. -- *}-wh^ale> **}-wh^ale> **}-wh^ale> **}-wh^ale> **}-wh^ale> * *}-wh^ale>* Mithriel M. MacKay Ph.D. Candidate Marine Mammal Research Program Department of Marine Biology Texas A&M University, Galveston (830) 688-9878 mithriel.mackay(a)gmail.com and Director of Research and Education Marine and Coastal Ecology Research Center San German, Puerto Rico, USA and Pipe Creek, Texas 78063 Website www.Marine-Eco.org <http://www.marine-eco.org/> E-mail Mithriel(a)Marine-Eco.org <MCERC.mail(a)gmail.com> Education HUb www.Marine-Eco.org/mcerc-moodle

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Internship available at the Puerto Rico Manatee Conservation Center
by Antonio A. Mignucci-Giannoni 19 Jan '15

19 Jan '15

Internship available at the Puerto Rico Manatee Conservation Center The Puerto Rico Manatee Conservation Center (PRMCC) and the Caribbean Stranding Network at the Inter American University of Puerto Rico announces the availability of four 2-month volunteer (unpaid) internship positions in three periods per year (1 February-31 March, 15 May-15 July, 1 September-31 October). The PRMMC conducts conservation efforts on behalf of endangered Antillean manatees in four modalities: (1) Rescue and Stranding Response, (2) Rehabilitation and Veterinary Care, (3) Population Research, and (4) Community Outreach and Education. Requirements: Applicants must be students enrolled in a natural sciences bachelor’s, graduate or professional degree (biology, zoology, oceanography, marine biology, environmental sciences, animal sciences, veterinary medicine or similar), or recent graduates of these disciplines seeking experience on endangered marine species conservation. Work at the PRMCC is conducted in Spanish and English, thus, interns must at least be able to converse and write in one of these languages. Interns must be self-motivated and responsible, able to work independently, have computer experience, good organizational and communication skills, and perform as a team. Candidates must be in good physical fitness, swim well, lift and carry 25 kg, walk long distances in difficult terrain, and follow written and oral staff directions and protocols effectively. In addition, interns should be prepared to perform in a variety of settings on any given day including; beach, in-water, and laboratory. Work hours are 40-60 hours per week. The 2-month internship may be extended an extra month at the discretion of the PRMCC and a positive 2-month evaluation. USA citizen interns do not need a visa to attend the internship; International applicants need to apply for a USA visa to attend. If interns intend to receive academic credit, they are responsible for making all arrangements with their educational institutions. The PRMCC internship is a once in a lifetime opportunity for students and recent graduates to join dedicated scientists who are conducting manatee conservation in the beautiful environmental setting of the Caribbean Island of Puerto Rico. As part of this program, interns are extremely important members of a focused and dedicated team and will be immersed in pioneering hands-on work with manatees. This is an excellent chance to contribute meaningfully to an exciting marine conservation effort to save an endangered species from extinction. Interns who successfully complete the program will receive a certificate acknowledging training in manatee conservation initiatives of stranding response and necropsies, rescue, rehabilitation and veterinary care, population research, and community outreach and education. Applications for the May 2015 internship must be received by 1 February 2015; and September 2015 internship by 1 June 2015. To apply, submit a complete application at our website http://manatipr.org/voluntarios/internship/. For more information, please contact volunt(a)manatipr.org.

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Course for Graduate Students: Cetacean Acoustics
by Marcos Santos 19 Jan '15

19 Jan '15

Course for Graduate Students: Cetacean Acoustics (March. 3 to 13; Sao Paulo, Brazil) Course for up to 8 (eight) graduate students in Sao Paulo, Brazil organized by the Instituto Oceanografico - Universidade de São Paulo (IOUSP) with the support of Fundacao de Amparo a Pesquisa do Estado de Sao Paulo (FAPESP). Ph. D. Laura Kloepper (National Science Foundation funded Postdoctoral Fellow at Brown University and Visiting Scholar Appointment in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at University of Massachusetts Dartmouth; www.laurakloepper.net) will be visiting Brazil and will share information on an important field of cetacean investigation. The course is free of charge, except in the 5 last fieldwork days which will include the amount of around U$ 100 to cover expenses of food and accomodation taxes at the IOUSP research base at the Cananeia estuary. The conceptual framework will be worked from March 3rd to 7th in the main headquarters of the IOUSP in Sao Paulo, and fieldwork working with Guiana dolphin acoustics will be done at the Cananeia estuary from Mar. 9th to 13th. Transportation to the field and back to Sao Paulo will be provided by the IOUSP. The main topics to be covered in this course are: -- introduction to physics of underwater sounds -- introduction to biology and anatomy of sound production in cetaceans -- introduction to tools used to record sounds (hydrophones, amplifiers, recorders) -- using arrays (localization, beam reconstruction, etc) -- software to analyze sounds (focus on free software but also touch on matlab) -- interpreting and understanding sounds: linking to mitigation and monitoring It is a 60h course and may be used as credits to graduate courses. Classes will be in English. Interested students may get in touch with Prof. Marcos Santos (sotalia@gmailcom) who will answer questions about subscriptions (to be opened from February 1st to 24th; form and docs to be sent by e-mail) and will help with indications on where to stay in Sao Paulo. The ones who want to start searching a place to stay, there is an interesting opportunity to spend less or no money when staying at student's houses close to the university. Check at https://www.facebook.com/usp.ifriends. [USP IFRIENDS] Dr. Marcos C e sar de Oliveira Santos Laborat o rio de Biologia da Conserva ca o de Mam i feros Aqu a ticos (LABCMA) Departamento de Oceanografia Biol o gica, Instituto Oceanogr a fico, Universidade de S a o Paulo Pra c a do Oceanogr a fico, 191, Sala 145-A Butant a , São Paulo, SP, Brasil. 05508-120 http://www.sotalia.com.br *Teachers: Encourage tomorrow's dreams!*

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