August 2016 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

PSO/MMO Training in Boston, MA September 24-25
by abostwick 19 Aug '16

19 Aug '16

MPSC is holding Protected Species Observer (also known as Marine Mammal Observer) training on September 24-25 in Boston Massachusetts. This BOEM/BSEE-compliant PSO certification course covers the regulations for reducing seismic survey impacts to marine mammals and sea turtles, and how to visually locate and identify the animals. Course comprehension is measured with examinations on regulations and animal identification. Successful completion of this course provides professional Protected Species Observer Certification. Lunch is provided and included in the course fee (college/recent graduate/military discounts available), along with various identification guides and regulatory documents (which will be yours to keep), a whale-watching vessel trip, and advice on applying to PSO positions. MPSC is also holding PSO training in Galveston, TX this November. For more information, please contact Angela at ABostwick(a)PSOCertifications.com <mailto:ABostwick@PSOCertifications.com> , by phone at 832-523-2402 <tel:832-523-2402> , or visit the website at http://www.protectedspeciesobservers.com/. Thank you, Angela Bostwick / Founder Marine Protected Species Consulting ProtectedSpeciesObservers.com <http://www.ProtectedSpeciesObservers.com> https://Facebook.com/ProtectedSpeciesObservers/

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Job Opening: University of Florida Stranding Biologist
by Dailey,Rachael E 18 Aug '16

18 Aug '16

The UF Aquatic Animal Health and Stranding program is seeking a Marine Mammal Stranding Biologist for full time coverage of stranding calls and responses in Levy, Taylor, and Dixie counties. Stranding Biologist will be stationed primarily in Cedar Key, FL at the UF IFAS Nature Coast Biological Station and supported by faculty and staff at the UF College of Veterinary Medicine (UF CVM). To apply: Please go to http://explore.jobs.ufl.edu/cw/en-us/job/498488/ops-stranding-biologist by August 30th 2016. Stranding biologist will be responsible for the following: · Coordinate stranding response and reports of cetaceans and manatees within the designated response area · Organize and oversee the daily operations of the stranding program including, but not limited to monitoring and response to stranding calls · Collect data and complete required documentations (e.g. 24-hour report, Level A Data) for all stranded animals and complete required reporting to databases including NMFS Marine Mammal National Database · Coordinate and conduct or assist veterinarian in necropsies both in the field and at UF CVM, including coordinating the disposal of carcasses and waste materials · Maintain inventory database for all samples and marine mammal parts in conjunction with UF CVM staff and proper NMFS permitting regulations · Maintain equipment, vehicle, and vessel as well as required logs for vehicle usage · Develop and maintain a volunteer and public outreach network to report and assist in stranding response and necropsy · Assist in public outreach events, including organizing attendance at new events to increase awareness of the program · Conduct workshops and trainings for stranding program volunteers in conjunction with UF CVM faculty and staff · Ensure adequate safety training and PPE for all volunteers, staff, and faculty for any and all procedures involved in stranding response and necropsy, including, but not limited to: hazardous and biological waste training, boating safety, animal handling, and zoonotic disease prevention after completing University training in these areas · Assist in grant writing and development activities · Communicate educational information effectively with members of the public and press as needed when responding to stranding events Applicants should possess the following qualifications: · Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and related software programs, preferably including Microsoft Access · Excellent organizational skills and the ability to work independently · Flexibility with regards to scheduling to accommodate the unpredictable nature of stranding response · High level interpersonal communication skills · At least 2 years experience in marine mammal stranding and necropsy (may be a combination of paid and unpaid work) · Ability to lift and carry 50 lbs. unassisted after proper training · Ability to drive a large truck and boat including ability to trailer and tow vessel · Ability to work under harsh weather conditions · Grant writing skills are highly desirable · Technically and Mechanically proficient Minimum Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in appropriate area of specialization and 2 years experience Preferred Qualifications: Experience in management of stranding program(s). Team based work ethic. CPR and first aid certifications. Experience with dolphin photo ID. Successful applications will include: CV/Resume, Cover letter, letters of reference from 3 individuals (preferably involved in the stranding field) including full contact information. Thanks! Rachael Dailey Rachael Dailey, MS Biological Scientist Aquatic Animal Health Program University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine Office: 352-294-4312 Cell: 352-213-6651

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Volunteer Research Assistants on the Farallon Islands Winter 2016-17
by Ryan Berger 17 Aug '16

17 Aug '16

Volunteer Announcement: Point Blue Conservation Science Winter Farallon Program 2016-2017 THIS IS A VOLUNTEER POSITION. AS A REQUIREMENT YOU MUST HAVE PRIOR FIELD EXPERIENCE WITH MARINE MAMMALS. Overview Point Blue Conservation Science (formerly PRBO Conservation Science and Point Reyes Bird Observatory) of Petaluma, CA is seeking applications for 3-4 volunteer research assistants for our Farallon Islands Program. Point Blue is an independent, scientific research non-profit whose mission is to conserve birds, other wildlife and ecosystems through innovative scientific research, partnership and outreach. Under co-operative agreement with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), Point Blue has conducted continuous research and stewardship of the unique natural resources of the Farallon National Wildlife Refuge since 1968. The Farallon Islands are just a few miles from the continental shelf and lie in the rich coastal upwelling region of Central California. The islands host globally significant breeding seabird populations (over 300,000 individuals of 13 species), are a major haul out and breeding site for 5 species of pinnipeds, a feeding ground for many cetaceans, and a key feeding site for White Sharks. The islands also host a variety of migrant landbirds and an endemic salamander and cricket population. Point Blue is seeking volunteers to assist with its winter activities on the Farallones. Research during this period focuses primarily on breeding elephant seals, but there are a variety of other biological studies conducted. Accommodations are in restored lighthouse keeper's quarters, with a fully equipped field station to accommodate year-round occupancy. On Island Work Duties The field season is early December to mid March on Southeast Farallon Island, a rugged 120-acre island National Wildlife Refuge 30 miles offshore from San Francisco, California. Responsibilities include: continuing the long term demographic studies of northern elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris) which includes tag resighting of breeding animals (adult males and females), pelage dye marking of individuals, flipper tag application of animals and weaned pup restraint for tag application; conducting surveys for arboreal salamanders (Aneides lugubris farallonensis), Farallon camel cricket (Farallonophilus cavernicolus), birds, other pinnipeds and cetaceans (using new technology - Spotter Pro App). There is also opportunities to aid in burrowing owl surveys, removal of invasive plant species, Cassin Auklet breeding checks, Common Murre band resighting and assist with routine maintenance of island equipment. Research assistants will also aid in standardized data collection, entry, and proofing, and management of long term datasets (Access, Excel and other Microsoft programs, Photo-ID, paper filing). Applicants must be able to live and work effectively in a remote setting with a small crew under difficult weather conditions for an extended field season (approximately 3 months without leaving the island). On island work is conducted 7 days a week throughout the entire field season, often for extended hours with no time off. Applicants must be in good physical condition as island terrane is rugged and can be hard on knees, ankles and backs. Research assistants must participate in cleaning and maintaining housing facilities as well as rotating cooking duties for dinner each evening. Online media Video of winter season: http://openroad.tv/video.php?vid=37 (copy and paste into url) Blog of biologist's work on island and video link on left: http://losfarallones.blogspot.com/ Overview of all research projects on island through Point Blue: http://www.pointblue.org/our-science-and-services/conservation-science/ocea… Compensation This is a volunteer position and no compensation will be awarded. Point Blue does not pay for travel costs to San Francisco/Petaluma, CA where research assistants will meet to make the trip to the island. However, once on the island all food and housing costs will be provided. Reliable phone and internet services are available. Start - End Date Early December to middle of March. Application Send a cover letter, CV, and list of 3-5 references to Ryan Berger, Farallon Program Biologist: rberger at pointblue.org. Interview process will begin the last week in September for top candidates. Position selections will be made by the second to third week in October. Ryan Berger, M. Sc., Farallon Program Biologist Point Blue Conservation Science 3820 Cypress Drive, Suite 11, Petaluma, CA 94954 707-781-2555 Fax: 707-765-1685 www.pointblue.org<http://www.pointblue.org/> | Follow Point Blue on Facebook<http://www.facebook.com/PointBlueConservationScience>! Point Blue-Conservation science for a healthy planet.

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SAERI Volunteer Intern Announcement
by Grant Munro 16 Aug '16

16 Aug '16

Volunteer Internship Opportunities Falkland Islands Coastal Dolphin Research Programme (SAERI, Stanley, Falkland Islands, South Atlantic) The South Atlantic Environmental Research Institute (SAERI) is offering two volunteer internship positions to assist with summer field work as part of the two-year research project "Dolphins of the kelp: Data priorities for Falklands' inshore cetaceans". The interns will be based in the Falkland Islands, South Atlantic and will assist with cetacean surveys from November to March. Two intern positions are available for 5 months in the first year (2016/17) and 3 months in the second year (2017/18). Applications are currently sought for the first summer field season from 01 Nov 2016 to 31 March 2017 approx. Applications will preferably be considered from interns who are available for the entire five month placement period. This is an unpaid position, but assistance with flight costs and living expenses will be provided. The internship positions are ideally suited to a graduate or a Masters post-graduate seeking to develop experience and field research skills and to apply previously gained theoretical knowledge in a practical environment. Interns will participate and be mentored in a range of field-based cetacean research techniques including; . Island-wide boat-based surveys to determine the distribution and abundance of cetaceans in the inshore waters of the Falkland Islands; . Focal, small boat surveys to collect photographic identification data and information on habitat use of Commerson's dolphins and Peale's dolphins; . Data processing including image processing, cataloguing and database entry; . Passive Acoustic Monitoring using moored C-Pods; . Biopsy dart sampling for genetic analysis; . General field work planning and equipment maintenance; The internships provide unique opportunities to gain hands-on research skills while also experiencing the diverse wildlife of the Falkland Islands ranging from coastal dolphins, whales, seals and sea lions to vast penguin and albatross colonies. You will live and work as part of a small team of highly enthusiastic professionals and local volunteers, and be immersed in the island life style of the remote Falkland Islands. We are looking for interns who are: - enthusiastic about marine research and conservation - adaptable and able to cope well with change - self-motivated and able to learn quickly - respectful, responsible and reliable team players - meticulous and dedicated hard workers - able and willing to endure basic living conditions in cold and wet field work environments - able to maintain a calm and positive attitude throughout Ideally Interns will also: . Have some theoretical knowledge of cetacean biology and field survey techniques either through practical experience, under-graduate (BSc) or post-graduate (MSc) study . Hold a full and clean manual driving licence . Be fluent in written and spoken English and demonstrate good communication skills. About the Internships The positions are un-salaried. However; . Funding is available to assist with return flight costs to the Falkland Islands. . Accommodation and basic subsistence costs in the Falkland Islands will be met by the project. . Essential fieldwork equipment (boat-suits, etc) will be provided by the project. Interns need to be able to cover all costs incurred from additional expenses such as entertainment, sightseeing, personal spend etc. Project Partnership The internships will be based in the South Atlantic Environmental Research Institute's (SAERI) head office in Stanley. SAERI's objective is to be a world class academic institute, based in the Falkland Islands. The institute's mission is to advance environmental understanding in the South Atlantic through research excellence and innovative scientific leadership in the natural and physical sciences (www.south-atlantic-research.org ). This project is a joint initiative with 5 partner organisations: Falklands Conservation, Austral Biodiversity Ltd, Shallow Marine Surveys Group (SMSG-Falklands), Oregon State University, and the University of St. Andrews. Contacts and Further Information For more information, a detailed description and application form please contact: Zoe James (officemanager(a)env.institute.ac.fk) For job specific detail please contact Dr Marina Costa (mcosta(a)env.institute.ac.fk) or Tara Pelembe (tpelembe(a)env.institute.ac.fk) Submitted by, Grant Munro ( <mailto:munro@horizon.co.fk> munro(a)horizon.co.fk)

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Sea Life Park Hawaii Internships Spring 2017
by Kandace Campbell 15 Aug '16

15 Aug '16

Sea Life Park Hawaii Internships Spring 2017 Sea Life Park Hawai'i offers several types of un-paid internship opportunities near Honolulu, including: Marine Mammal Care & Training, Reef & Sea Turtle Care & Training, Seabird Care & Rehabilitation, Veterinary Technician, and Educator Experiences. Many interns receive course credit for their internships. We will be happy to work with your college or university to develop a program tied to your academic goals. Our internships are ideal for students who love marine mammals and want hands–on experience working with them. Internships may also involve research projects within an assigned group. Those working within the marine mammals and our Reef Life departments will also have the opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge of animal training through a unique phase training program. This allows individuals to familiarize themselves with the training techniques and terminology used at Sea Life Park Hawai'i. All of our animal related internships require our interns to participate in food preparation for the animals of the park, so applicants must be comfortable working with frozen fish. Internship Opportunities Experiences Marketing & Sales Experience Interns will gain experience and assist the Marketing Manager & Group Sales Manager with the assembly of marketing campaigns and materials and administrative duties for all Sea Life Park Local Promotions & Group events. Marketing Interns will assist in the coordination of print advertisements, online advertisements, and photo and content upload to Park’s Facebook page when needed. Interns will provide assistance where needed for film shoots, group events and or administrative tasks. Photo & Video Experience Interns will gain experience operating both photo and DVD equipment to produce images of guests during their interactive programs and luaus. Interns will capture photos and videos of guests with dolphins, sea lions, sting rays, and even sharks! Interns will have the opportunity to be trained from an experienced team while learning how to edit photos, videos, and maintain equipment. Aloha Experience These interns will get to work primarily with dolphins. Aloha Interns have the opportunity to assist with dolphin training, husbandry, interactive programs, and observe some of our younger dolphins learning new behaviors. If your main focus is dolphins and learning about guest interactions, this is the internship for you! Cove Experience Cove Interns will work with dolphins and sea lions involved in our shows, exhibits, and interactive programs. These interns get to assist in training, husbandry, and interactive sessions with dolphins, as well as learn basic showmanship and show production skills during the daily Sea Life Park Hawai'i Dolphin Cove Show. Interns also assist in the daily training, care, and educational presentations with our sea lions and penguins. Hawaiian Experience Interns in the Hawaiian Experience get to assist with husbandry, training, and shows involving our dolphins, sea lions, and penguins. Interns may also assist with basic husbandry of our Monk Seals and help trainers during our sea lion interactive program. If you are interested in shows and have a love for sea lions this is the internship for you! Educator Experience These interns will work with our in-house and outreach education programs. In our classroom, interns have the opportunity to assist with program instruction and curriculum development at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. Interns also participate in park activities, the development of guest educational and interactive displays, and community programs. Reef Life Experience These interns will work with sea turtles, stingrays, sharks, and reef fish in our exhibits and interactive programs. Sea Life Park’s successful Green Sea Turtle breeding colony is the only such program in the United States, and is responsible for releasing between 200–800 hatchlings into the wild each year. Hatchlings raised in the park or loaned to other qualified aquariums provide a unique way to increase public awareness about the Honu and inspires new ambassadors for this species. Veterinary Technician Experience Applicants must have some previous veterinary technician experience. Interns will work with a large variety of marine mammals, as well as penguins, sea turtles, reef fish, and seabirds. In our veterinary department, interns assist our staff with the husbandry and treatment of all animals housed in the park. Interns also help with lab procedures, sample processing, and record keeping. Wings Experience Interns work with a large variety of healthy and rehabilitating seabirds. At our Seabird Sanctuary, interns assist in the husbandry and treatment of non-releasable species of seabirds. At our Seabird Rehabilitation Center, interns help our veterinary staff with seabird medical treatments, husbandry, and reintroduction into the wild. Internship Program Candidate Requirements Candidates must: 1. Be at least 18 years of age 2. Be enrolled in or have graduated from a university or college 3. Commit to the full internship time period 4. Be able to financially support herself or himself(internships are un-paid, but lunches are included daily) 5. Have strong swimming skills and physically able to work in in-water interactive programs with marine mammals and other species 6. Be comfortable with public speaking 7. Be comfortable handling frozen fish Accepted applicants must: Attend all required seminars and training courses 1. Commit to a minimum of 40 hours per week (including nights and weekends) 2. Be able to lift 50lbs. Applications Submissions Application Packets must include: 1. Application 2. Two letters of recommendation 3. College transcript(s) – an unofficial copy is fine 4. Statement of interest 5. CV or resume Statement of Interest Please include a 1–2 page typed statement of interest that explains your reasons for applying, your background information, your interests, your academic and field related experiences, your personal goals for the Sea Life Park Hawai'i internship. Submission Instructions To apply for a Sea Life Park Hawai'i Internship Program, download and complete the application below, attach all required materials, and mail to the address below or to: education(a)sealifeparkhawaii.com <mailto:education@sealifeparkhawaii.com> . Download Internship application<http://www.sealifeparkhawaii.com/sites/sealife.com/files/2016%20Intern%20Ap…> Education Manager Sea Life Park Hawai'i 41-202 Kalaniana'ole Highway #7 Waimanalo, Hawai'i 96795 **Be sure to save a copy of your application. Your application will not be processed unless your transcripts, letters of recommendation, resume, and statement of interest are included. Due to the high number of applicants, you may not be accepted into your first internship choice. Internship Availability Dates Period Dates Application Deadline Spring 2017 January 3-May 26, 2017 September 30, 2016 Respectfully, Kandace Campbell Education Associate Sea Life Park Hawaii 41-202 Kalanianaole Hwy #7 Waimanalo, Hawaii 96795 Office: 808.259.2512 Fax. 808.259.7373 Email: kandace.campbell(a)sealifeparkhawaii.com<mailto:kandace.campbell@sealifeparkhawaii.com> [HeartDolphinLogo] P E mālama `āina ma mua o kau pa`i `ana i kēia leka uila. Care for the land before you print this electronic message. CONFIDENTIALITY NOTE (To Palace employees and outside parties): This email, and any attachment to it, contains attorney-client privileged and/or confidential business information intended only for the use of the intended recipient of this email. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that reading, using, or disseminating this email, or any attachment to it, is strictly prohibited. If you have received this email in error, please immediately notify the sender by return email and then delete the original and any copies of this email, and any attachments to it, from your system. If you are a Palace Entertainment employee, this email may not be disseminated or discussed with anyone outside of Company management without the consent of the General Counsel. Thank you.

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Fall Online Course - Last Call - Aquatic Animal Conservation Issues
by Larkin,Iskande (Iske) 15 Aug '16

15 Aug '16

All, Just sending out a last minute reminder that registration will close next week. The University of Florida, College of Veterinary Medicine would like to announce the close of registration for our fall online course: Academic credit, registration closes - Wednesday Aug 24th. Continuing Education registration closes - Friday Aug 26th Aquatic Animal Conservation Issues is an online course (3 credits) designed to introduce students (upper level undergraduate and graduate) and professionals (with an AA or higher degree) to the controversial issues surrounding aquatic animal species ranging from invertebrates to marine mammals, with an emphasis on marine mammals, but also including sea turtles, fisheries, and marine ecosystems. Students enrolled at any College or University within the US or internationally can take this course. For more information about this classes or enrollment, contact Dr. Iskande Larkin(ivlarkin(a)ufl.edu<mailto:ivlarkin@ufl.edu>). If you are interested in taking one of the classes, registration is now open for Fall (2016). The first day of the semester is August 22nd. Sincerely, Dr Larkin [Description: AAH logo blue E-Mail Sig] Iske V. Larkin, PhD Lecturer & Education Coordinator Aquatic Animal Health Program Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine University of Florida PO Box 100136 2015 SW 16th Ave Gainesville, Florida 32610 Office phone - 352-294-4095 Work cell - 352-494-1742 Fax - 352-392-8289 Program web page: http://aquatic.vetmed.ufl.edu "To the world you might be one person, but to one person you might be the world." -Anonymous ________________________________ Please note that Florida has a broad public records law, and that all correspondence to or from University of Florida employees via email may be subject to disclosure.

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Research Internships in Maui, Hawai‘i
by PWF Research Department 15 Aug '16

15 Aug '16

Pacific Whale Foundation (PWF), based in Maui, Hawai‘i, is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting whales and other marine life through research, education, and conservation. Our researchers have studied whales and dolphins throughout the Pacific for over 30 years and currently conduct projects in Hawai‘i, Australia, and Ecuador. *We are currently seeking intern candidates with availability from September 13 - December 30, 2016. * *Commitment* PWF seeks performance-driven and dedicated individuals for long-term internships. Successful applicants are expected to dedicate 30 - 40 hours per week working both in the office and on our research vessel. Applicants must be available to work Monday - Friday and be available for all field work. Some weekend work may also be required. *Responsibilities* Interns will be based at PWF’s headquarters on Maui, Hawaii and will participate with multiple projects involving mysticetes (humpback whales) and odontocetes (numerous species of toothed whales and dolphins). Primary responsibilities are office-based and may include: - Photo-identification matching of whale flukes and/or dolphin dorsal fins; - Data entry and archival tasks; - Data processing and analysis; - General operational tasks. Additional responsibilities include field work: boat surveys within the four-island region of Maui, and land-based surveys using a theodolite. Each intern may be assigned to a specific cetacean project according to skill set and availability. Interns also assist staff with other projects, such as outreach events, as the need arises. *Requirements* Ideal applicants should: - Be advanced undergraduates or recent graduates in biology or a related field; - Be available to volunteer on a full-time basis and must be available for all field work; - Have a mature attitude towards research; - Be proficient with computers and data entry; specifically using PCs and the Microsoft Office suite of products; - Have a strong work ethic, attention to detail and superior organizational skills; - Have the ability to work well both in a team and independently; - Have the ability to admit to mistakes; - Be adaptable and a fast-learner; - Be able to collect data in a detail-oriented manner; - Have boating experience; - Speak, read and write English fluently. Interns must be able to spend many hours on the water and on shore in sometimes extreme weather conditions, including high temperatures. Field days typically exceed eight hours and occur approximately two times per week. *Compensation* There is no financial compensation for these positions and interns are responsible for their own travel and living expenses. There is public transportation available on the island. *Application process* Applicants must be authorized to legally remain in Hawai’i if they are not U.S. citizens or authorized to work in the U.S. Interested candidates should submit an application with the following: - A cover letter including your availability, i.e. preferred time period (1 page only); - A resume describing training, experience and relevant skills (2 pages only); - Names and contact information of three references. Please send these items as e-mail attachments (PDF preferred) to research(a)pacificwhale.org - No phone calls or drop-ins, please! *Research Department* Pacific Whale Foundation 300 Ma'alaea Rd., Suite 211 Wailuku, HI 96793, USA Phone: +1 808-856-8305 Fax: +1 808-243-9021 Email: research(a)pacificwhale.org Website: www.pacificwhale.org -- CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission and any accompanying attachments contain information belonging to the sender which may be confidential and legally privileged. This information is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to whom this electronic mail transmission was sent as indicated above. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution, or action taken in reliance on the contents of the information contained in this transmission is strictly prohibited. If you have received this transmission in error, please notify the sender immediately and destroy all copies of this transmission and all attachments. Thank you!

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SURVEY about Land-bsed-station studies in Latin America
by Maria Emilia Morete 15 Aug '16

15 Aug '16

We would like to remind you about our online survey. It it will be available online until August 20th https://fr.surveymonkey.com/r/7PCTCMT. Our goal is to compile all the available information on research projects that uses or had used land-based stations to study aquatic mammals in Latin America. We conducted a literature review, and despite of that, many known land-based stations studies are not contemplated in the available literature. This survey aims to provide the most complete portrait of land-based studies in Latin America and the gathered results will be presented in a future book chapter. The survey takes approximately 5 minutes. If you have any question regarding this survey, please contact Mia Morete for more details (miamorete(a)gmail.com) Thanks for your contribution! *Cristiane C.A. Martins*, PhD – Tryphon Oceans *Daniela Abras*, MsC – Instituto Baleia Jubarte & VIVA Baleias, Golfinhos e cia *Mia Morete*, PhD – VIVA Baleias, Golfinhos e cia *Maria Emilia Morete* *VIVA** Baleia, golfinhos e cia.* *https://www.facebook.com/VIVAbaleiasegolfinhos <https://www.facebook.com/VIVAbaleiasegolfinhos>*

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new publication - marine mammal genomics
by Kristina Cammen 15 Aug '16

15 Aug '16

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce the publication of the following invited review on marine mammal genomics in the Journal of Heredity: Genomic Methods Take the Plunge: Recent Advances in High-Throughput Sequencing of Marine Mammals Kristina M. Cammen, Kimberly R. Andrews, Emma L. Carroll, Andrew D. Foote, Emily Humble, Jane I. Khudyakov, Marie Louis, Michael R. McGowen, Morten Tange Olsen, and Amy M. Van Cise The dramatic increase in the application of genomic techniques to non-model organisms (NMOs) over the past decade has yielded numerous valuable contributions to evolutionary biology and ecology, many of which would not have been possible with traditional genetic markers. We review this recent progression with a particular focus on genomic studies of marine mammals, a group of taxa that represent key macroevolutionary transitions from terrestrial to marine environments and for which available genomic resources have recently undergone notable rapid growth. Genomic studies of NMOs utilize an expanding range of approaches, including whole genome sequencing, restriction site-associated DNA sequencing, array-based sequencing of single nucleotide polymorphisms and target sequence probes (e.g., exomes), and transcriptome sequencing. These approaches generate different types and quantities of data, and many can be applied with limited or no prior genomic resources, thus overcoming one traditional limitation of research on NMOs. Within marine mammals, such studies have thus far yielded significant contributions to the fields of phylogenomics and comparative genomics, as well as enabled investigations of fitness, demography, and population structure. Here we review the primary options for generating genomic data, introduce several emerging techniques, and discuss the suitability of each approach for different applications in the study of NMOs. The full article is freely available online at http://jhered.oxfordjournals.org/content/early/2016/08/10/jhered.esw044.full -- Kristina Cammen School of Marine Sciences, University of Maine kristina.cammen(a)maine.edu

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JOB OPENING: FIELD RESPONSE SECTOR MANAGER
by Jon Gelman at Hawaii Marine Mammal Alliance 14 Aug '16

14 Aug '16

HAWAII MARINE MAMMAL ALLIANCE JOB OPENING: FIELD RESPONSE SECTOR MANAGER ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION: Hawaii Marine Mammal Alliance (HMMA) is a non-profit organization funded by private donations, government grants and corporate sponsorships. We are dedicated to the preservation, recovery and stewardship of Hawaii’s endangered marine mammals and the coastal ecosystem we share. In partnership with NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service, our staff and volunteers support critically endangered Hawaiian monk seal species research and recovery efforts through important field response, assessment, identification, documentation – and when needed – assistance with in-field animal interventions and stranding support. Another primary function of the organization is engaging in public outreach to educate residents and visitors and to promote responsible viewing, interaction and fishing activity that fosters stewardship of the Hawaiian monk seal species. ABOUT THE JOB OPENING: Hawaii Marine Mammal Alliance (HMMA) has an immediate opening for a Field Response Sector Manager responsible for the southern section of the Island of Oahu in the State of Hawaii. The position is responsible for the following duties: - Patrol shorelines for, or respond to, reports of Hawaiian monk seal sightings on land or in shallow waters. - Locate, assess, identify and document Hawaiian monk seals and their activity to assist NOAA researchers in species recovery research and management. - Assist with animal intervention activity, marine mammal rescue and stranding support. - Engage with the public to educate people about this critically endangered species and to promote responsible viewing, interaction and sustainable fishery activities. - Recruit, train and manage volunteers to ensure field response schedules and coverage needs are met. - Become subject matter expert on Hawaiian monk seals regularly sighted within the sector. - Become subject matter expert on haul-out locations within the sector, including shoreline access logistics, homeowner contacts, gated entry access, and other operational information. - Identify public education, outreach and non-profit partnering opportunities within the sector. - Develop relationships with law enforcement or other government personnel that can assist with marine mammal response and management within the sector. - Develop relationships with individuals within the sector that can assist with cultural issues associated with marine mammal haul-outs or strandings. - Assist other staff with gaps in personnel coverage and on completing key projects. THE POSITION AND NEEDED CORE COMPETENCIES: This job is considered a part-time position based on a work schedule encompassing approximately 108 hours per month and is exempt from State of Hawaii requirements to provide paid health care insurance. Core competencies needed for the position include: - Possess excellent written and oral command of the English language - Be a person with a professional and open personal demeanor that enjoys contact with the public, volunteers and fellow staff - Possess effective personnel management skills - Ability to thrive in a highly dynamic environment and the flexibility to navigate changing organizational needs - Ability to work in a virtual environment without direct supervision - Have a passion for and an understanding of environmental, conservation or wildlife issues REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: - 21 years of age or older - College degree or equivalent - Willingness to commit to this position for a period of at least 2 years - U.S. citizenship or relevant needed work permits and/or visas - A least 1 year in prior supervisory positions or relevant experience - Relevant work experience, preferably in marine mammal management, conservation or environmental matters - Valid drivers license, full-time access to a reliable vehicle and proof of insurance with Hawaii minimum liability coverage - Access to a cellular phone with 4G data service - Access to a personal computer with Internet access - Ability to walk at least 3 miles over shoreline conditions - Ability to lift and carry at least 75 pounds over 100 feet - Be available for emergency response anywhere on the Island of Oahu - Physical abilities to support strenuous activities associated with restraint or removal of marine mammals in difficult shoreline terrain and challenging environmental conditions - Pass background check INTERESTED APPLICANTS AND DEADLINE: Please send a letter of interest and your resume for consideration to jon.gelman(a)hi-mma.org <file:///email%20to/%20%20jon.gelman@hi-mma.org> no later than August 31, 2016. The intent is to fill this position no later than September 30, 2016.

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