December 2015 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

The Whale Microbiome - free educational video and crowd funding
by Amy Apprill 29 Dec '15

29 Dec '15

Hello marine mammal community, I wanted to make you aware of a new educational video about the 'The humpback microbiome' available free via Science magazine online. The video is part of the 'XX Files: Extraordinary Science, Extraordinary Women' series, which features 8 female scientists in action: http://specialprojects.sciencemag.org/xxfiles/episode-8/ Also, please help us spread the word about a crowd funding project my lab is pursuing to sequence the microbiome of more whales! We have 2 days left to fundraise about $600 for this project (tax-deductible, no overhead and therefore all money goes to research!). You can learn more through this link: give.whoi.edu/goto/whalebuddies Thanks and happy holidays, Amy Amy Apprill, Assistant Scientist Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution aapprill(a)whoi.edu www.whoi.edu/website/amy-apprill/ Follow us on *Facebook:* https://www.facebook.com/apprilllab and *Twitter*: @AmyApprill

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VOLUNTEER POSITION IN MARINE MAMMALS RESEARCH ASSOCIATION
by aylin akkaya 29 Dec '15

29 Dec '15

Marine Mammals Research Association (DMAD) isaccepting volunteers starting from February 2016. DMAD is dedicated to run marine mammal research and toincrease public awareness (specifically working with fishermen and in-needkids) in the region. Despite the large cetacean biodiversity in thenortheastern Levantine, there haven’t been any long-term studies in the area.Therefore, we aim to fulfil the knowledge gaps on marine mammals. This projectprovides an excellent opportunity for post-grads, students and individualsinterested in getting more experience and knowledge in the field of marinemammal research. VOLUNTEERS are responsible from behavioural datacollection, theodolite operation, photographing individuals and cataloguingdolphin/monk seal pictures, data entry. Training will be provided beforehand.In addition, there will be ArcGIS and SPSS courses running which will be freefor volunteers during their stay. REQUIREMENTS A biology background is not mandatory butadvantageous. What is more important is the applicant should be enthusiasticand self-motivated on marine mammal conservation and willing tolearn. Minimum commitment is one month, although for a fuller experiencewe recommend two or more months. This position is unpaid and requires a contribution fee of 500euro per monthwhich covers the accommodation and project related activities. TO APPLY Please send a cover letter and CV to info(a)dmad.org.tr. For moreinformation please visit www.dmad.org.tr or email us. Have a good day, Dr. Aylin Akkaya Bas Project Director Deniz Memelileri Arastırma Dernegi (DMAD) Marine Mammals Research Association +90 5337739867 info(a)dmad.org.trt www.dmad.org.tr

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RESEARCHER POSITION IN MARINE MAMMALS RESEARCH ASSOCIATION
by aylin akkaya 29 Dec '15

29 Dec '15

TWORESEARCHER POSITIONS AVAILABLE Marine Mammals Research Association (DMAD) iscurrently seeking for two researcher, based in beautiful city Antalya, Turkey.The project is focused on the conservation of marine mammals (dominantlybottlenose dolphins, beaked whales and Mediterranean monk seals), monitoringtheir abundance, distribution, behaviour by using a combination of boat andland surveys. Researchers are primarily responsible for maintaining thecetacean research program and coordinating the volunteers. An important part ofthe work involves behavioural data collection, theodolite operation,photographing individuals and cataloguing dolphin/monk seal pictures, dataentry, supervise volunteers. Training will be provided beforehand. Responsibilities will include but are not limited to: -Coordinate between the project director and projectvolunteers -Be in charge of shared house and weekly work plan -Train the volunteers on land and boat based surveys,photo ID, data entry -Optional opportunity to undertake a personal researchproject supervised by the project director. Requirements: The successful applicant is expected to have completeda BSc degree (or higher) in biology, marine biology or zoology and able todemonstrate previous experience in marine mammal research. A strong knowledge onmarine mammal species in Mediterranean is an advantage. Practical experience ofphoto-identification (both photography and matching) and theodolite operationis desirable. The applicant must be proficient with database and wordprocessing software and be willing to learn new software applications. Researchers must be self-motivated, with the drive anddetermination to work independently and responsibly. Minimum commitment is fivemonth. The position is open as early as January. This position is unpaid, but accommodation plus pucketmoney to cover some of the food expenses will be provided. Researcher will be responsible for their owntravel expenses to Antalya. To apply: Send CV and covering letter, with the names of tworeferees, by e-mail to info(a)dmad.org.tr or akkayaaylinn(a)gmail.com. Deadline for Applications: Sunday 10th January2015.

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NEAq Marine Mammal Education and Research Internship - Spring spots available
by Laura Howes 28 Dec '15

28 Dec '15

Hello, The New England Aquarium is currently accepting Spring and Summer applicants for their Marine Mammal Education and Research Internship to serve aboard the New England Aquarium whale watch, which is partnered with Boston Harbor Cruises. Marine Mammal Education & Research Interns are responsible for collecting, and transcribing data related to the identification and behavior of marine mammals found in the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. Interns also take a big role in public education and environmental interpretation aboard the vessels. Additional duties include data entry, humpback photo-identification processing, and other educational outreach. Please click the following link to be redirected to a full description of the internship position: http://www.neaq.org/get_involved/volunteering_and_internships/internships/c… You must apply through the New Aquarium Website: http://www.neaq.org/get_involved/volunteering_and_internships/internships/a… Candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, 2 references, a letter of recommendation, questionnaire, and a college transcript to intern(a)neaq.org<mailto:intern@neaq.org>. Please contact NEAq directly to apply to this program. Sincerely, Laura Howes -- Laura Howes Director of Marine Education & Conservation Boston Harbor Cruises One Long Wharf Boston, MA 02110 p: (617) 227-4321 ext 277 lhowes(a)bostonharborcruises.com<mailto:lhowes@bostonharborcruises.com> [ALL CAPS logo email sig]<http://www.bostonharborcruises.com/>

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Job opening: Associate Programme Management Officer (Marine), Dugong MOU Secretariat
by CmsOffice.ae 28 Dec '15

28 Dec '15

Dear All, The Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) is an intergovernmental treaty aiming to conserve terrestrial, marine and avian migratory species throughout their migratory range. The Convention Secretariat is administered by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). CMS Office - Abu Dhabi coordinates two international agreements under the Convention's framework: the CMS Memorandum of Understanding on the Conservation and Management of Dugongs and their Habitats throughout their Range (Dugong MOU) and the CMS MOU on the Conservation of Migratory Birds of Prey in Africa and Eurasia (Raptors MOU). CMS Office - Abu Dhabi is looking for an Associate Programme Management Officer (Marine) to the Dugong MOU Secretariat. Deadline for applications is 20 January 2016. Please see full details of the job opening on the UN Careers Portal: https://careers.un.org/lbw/jobdetail.aspx?id=52040 . Applications should be submitted via the UN Careers Portal (this requires registering to UN INSPIRA). Applications sent via email won't be considered. We'd appreciate if you could share with your networks as appropriate. Many thanks and best regards, Jenny Renell Associate Programme Management Officer Convention on Migratory Species Office - Abu Dhabi United Nations Environment Programme c/o Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi P.O.Box 45553, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates cmsoffice.ae(a)cms.int<mailto:cmsoffice.ae@cms.int> www.cms.int/dugong<http://www.cms.int/dugong> www.cms.int/raptors<http://www.cms.int/raptors> [cid:image005.jpg@01D14169.965FD750]<http://www.cms.int/> [cid:image006.jpg@01D14169.965FD750] <http://www.unep.org/>

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Volunteer opportunities - Namibia
by Simon Elwen 27 Dec '15

27 Dec '15

The Namibian Dolphin Project is a research and conservation organisation run by several independent scientists based in southern Africa. We are running research internships in 2016 and would like to invite students enrolled in marine biology, ecology and zoology degrees to attend. These 6 week long internships will take place between 1 June to 13 July 2016 and 20 July to 31 August 2016 in Walvis Bay, Namibia. Internships are research focused with an emphasis on learning field skills used in cetacean research such as photo-identification and behavioural data collection, as well as data management and team work. There is a fee associated which covers food, accommodation, training and field activities. More information can be found on the Namibian Dolphin Project and our umbrella organisation Sea Search by following these links ( www.namibiandolphinproject.com www.seasearch.co.za) Please do not hesitate to contact us should you have any questions regarding this training opportunity. Students who wish to apply should forward their CV and a letter of motivation to nam.dolphin.edu(a)gmail.com <nam.dolphin.project(a)gmail.com> at the earliest opportunity as spaces are limited. Kind regards Namibian Dolphin Project Team -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- Simon Elwen Ph.D. Research Fellow at the Mammal Research Institute, University of Pretoria Based at Sea Search Africa - Bath Rd ,Muizenberg Cape Town. Phone: +27 21 788 1206 (Off SA), +27 71 139 5951 (Mob SA), +264 81 421 4968 (Mob Namibia) Sea Search Africa: www.seasearch.co.za & Namibian Dolphin Project: www.namibiandolphinproject.com

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Marine Naturalist Course, March 19-20, 2016, Victoria, BC.
by whale lab 27 Dec '15

27 Dec '15

The Society for Ecological and Coastal Research - SEACR - is a non-profit organization, established in 1998, dedicated to scientific research on the ecology of near-shore marine systems. Registration for a Marine Naturalist course run by SEACR is now being taken. The course will run March 19-20, 2016 and be hosted at the University of Victoria, BC. The course includes 16 hours of instruction including presentations on local marine ecology and practical naturalist interpretation techniques. Course will be taught by professional marine researchers and naturalists. Course fee is $200 for both days, or $100 per day. Lectures will incorporate bones, slides, video and other visual aids to help describe ecology and act as tactile teaching tools. We will also spend time in discussion with, and hearing anecdotes from, scientists, and experienced guides and professionals. The course will focus on marine mammals common to the BC coast; however, there will also be a look at examples of the more rare and fascinating species visiting the west coast. Find more information here: http://whalelab.geog.uvic.ca/naturalist This course is designed for all levels of interest: those taking to enhance knowledge and general curiosity, as well as being an excellent opportunity for an individual working towards a job in the marine ecotourism industry. Upon completion of the course participants will receive a course pack, a recommended reading list, and a certificate recognized by Professional Whale Watching Operators on the coast. Questions regarding the Marine Naturalist Course can be directed by email to: whalelab(a)gmail.com To register - send an email expressing your interest to whalelab(a)gmail.com, and a reply with further details for enrolment as well as a course description will follow. **************************** Society for Ecological and Coastal Research P.O. Box 35052 Victoria, British Columbia CANADA V8T 5G2 whalelab(a)gmail.com

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Society of Ecological and Coastal Research: Marine Research Intern Program in British Columbia, Summer 2016
by whale lab 27 Dec '15

27 Dec '15

SEACR MARINE RESEARCH INTERNSHIPS – SUMMER 2016 The Society for Ecological and Coastal Research - SEACR - is a non-profit organization, established in 1998, dedicated to scientific research on the ecology of near-shore marine systems. SEACR is sponsoring several long-term ongoing research projects on gray whale ecology in Clayoquot Sound, British Columbia, Canada, with some exciting additions this summer. The projects are organized and run by members of the Whale Research Lab of the University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada ( www.whalelab.geog.uvic.ca) Join us to celebrate 20 years of ecological research in a beautiful part of British Columbia! INTERNSHIPS Enthusiastic individuals with a keen interest in nature and science are invited to discover the challenges of marine field research along Canada's coastal rainforest through SEACR's Marine Research Intern Program! MRIP is a volunteer program where Research Interns assist experienced and dedicated marine biologists and ecologists with their field research. Research Interns will live and work at a remote research field-station in the coastal rainforest of Clayoquot Sound, British Columbia, aiding the current research projects (for more information see http://whalelab.geog.uvic.ca/ whale <http://whalelab.geog.uvic.ca/whale> and 'recent research' http://whalelab.geog.uvic.ca/research) Internships are offered on a competitive basis, at cost and provide invaluable exposure to boat based field work, the Pacific coastal ocean environment, marine mammal research, intensive training and mentoring in marine ecology, and encouragement to work and play hard! This year we will continue with our long standing ecology projects, as well as new and cutting edge acoustic programs. We are offering 2, 4 or 6 week options. There is no deadline to apply. However, approved applications are reviewed and accepted on a first-come, first serve basis. *Sessions for 2016 are May 29-June 11, June 11 - June 24, July 12 - 25, July 25 - August 7, August 7 - August 21, and August 21- September 4.* QUALIFICATIONS This internship is an excellent opportunity for an individual working toward a career in marine science to gain practical experience in the field. Ideal candidates possess a personal interest in marine ecology and a commitment to conservation research. Marine research is difficult and challenging work, so being a Research Intern is not for everyone! Those who wish to participate in MRIP must be in good physical health, especially free of back and leg injuries, as the field hours (in the boat and in the lab) can be long - though very satisfying! This is not a program that certifies individuals in field research. It is, however, an experience that delivers a unique opportunity for education, development of field ecology research skills, travel, and enjoyment of wildlife. THE RESEARCH ENVIRONMENT Flores Island is the home of the Ahousaht First Nations peoples and is nestled in world-famous Clayoquot Sound, in the Pacific Coast rainforest. Flores is an excellent place to learn about marine ecology and the study of nature. Along with learning field and technical skills during the course of work, when the opportunity arises Research Interns may engage in informal talks with graduate students, take hikes along the Wild Side Trail, have campfires, and interact with the Ahousaht First Nations peoples. Professors from the University of Victoria, local scientists and previous MRIP researchers will be frequent visitors to the field research station. You participate all research activities, including line transect surveys, photo-identification and mark-recapture studies, behavioural observations, prey sampling, and acoustic data collection Flores Island's natural beauty, sandy beaches, and abundant wildlife will keep you enthralled. Being here is the experience of a lifetime. APPLICATION PROCESS & COSTS To qualify as a candidate for the MRIP, see the pre-application process on our website: http://whalelab.geog. uvic.ca/MRIPapply <http://whalelab.geog.uvic.ca/MRIPapply>. There is no minimum age or academic requirement, but those under 18 years old considering an internship will need to provide extra supporting documents. Unlike many other volunteer internship opportunities, SEACR provides and organizes the room and board for our interns at cost. The internship package includes basic accommodations and three meals per day at the research station. Interns and research staff live together and are responsible for cooking and cleaning duties. Rooms are shared with at least one other person. The internship costs do not include transportation to and from the research camp on Flores Island, personal items, or special dietary requirements. A non-refundable $500 deposit is required upon acceptance to MRIP. Two week Internship is $ 2,300 CDN Four week Internship is $ 3,600 CDN Six week Internship is $ 5,800 CDN If you are interested in applying for a position, please see the details of our application process on our http://whalelab.geog.uvic.ca/MRIPapply Questions regarding the MRIP application or internships can be directed by email to: whalelab(a)gmail.com **************************** Society for Ecological and Coastal Research P.O. Box 35052 Victoria, British Columbia CANADA V8T 5G2 whalelab(a)gmail.com

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2nd announcement of the 2016 UKIRSC - SMM student conference
by Leticiaà Legat 26 Dec '15

26 Dec '15

The UK and Ireland Regional Student Chapter (UKIRSC) of the Society for Marine Mammalogy (SMM) is pleased to announce its annual student conference. This will take place between 20th and 22nd of January 2016 at the Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St. Andrews, Scotland. Abstract submission deadline is 6th of January, 2016. For further details and to register, please visit synergy.st-andrews.ac.uk /ukrsc UKIRSC Organising Committee -- Leticiaà Legat, PhD Candidate Centre for Wildlife Conservation University of Cumbria, Lake District Campus Nook Lane, Ambleside Cumbria - UK LA22 9BB

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Results Abstracts Submitted - 30a Conference of the European Cetacean Society, Madeira, March 2016
by ECS2016 Madeira Conference 26 Dec '15

26 Dec '15

Dear Contributors, The results of the review of abstracts submitted to the 30th Annual ECS Conference, Funchal, Madeira, 2016, are now available on the ECS website. So please go to your account and check the result of your submission. Please note that you are also required to complete registration for the conference to complete the acceptance procedure. If you do not register, you will not be able to present. The early registration deadline is 15 January 2016. Looking forward to see you all in Madeira next March. Best regards Cláudia Ribeiro ____________________ Chair of the Scientific Committe

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