October 2017 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Flukebook: A joint platform for citizen scientists and dedicated researchers
by Shane 06 Oct '17

06 Oct '17

Please be reminded of the workshop taking place at the SMM: Flukebook: A joint platform for citizen scientists and dedicated researchers The use of citizen science data in wildlife research has grown over the last five years. Images and sighting reports from citizen scientists are now becoming the most abundant and inexpensive sources of wildlife data. With decreasing research budgets and increasing concerns for wild populations, citizen science has been seen as an important source of data collection, but also as a way of developing engagement on conservation issues with the public. But to date, many citizen scientist initiatives are focused solely on pooling data and lack powerful tools for managing and analysing data. Flukebook enables cloud-based data management, computer-vision assisted species detection, automated photo-identification, and analysis (online and exported to common platforms) into one system which allows citizen scientists to contribute and track their submissions and the individual whales they have met, while also enabling collaboration between multiple institutions of dedicated researchers in order to address questions over biological relevant scales across which no one research team could financially or practically operate. We are building a community of researchers, commercial naturalists, and public enthusiasts who are committed to these species. This workshop will detail Flukebook's capabilities and enable attendees to help shape Flukebook into a tool that is practical, accessible, and useful for all. Register through the conference website http://www.smmconference.org/WorkshopDescriptions For questions or more details please contact: Jason Holmberg (jason(a)wildme.org<mailto:jason@wildme.org>) or Shane Gero (shane.gero(a)bios.au.dk<mailto:shane.gero@bios.au.dk>) See you there!

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VOLUNTEER RECRUITMENT FOR THE MONTENEGRO DOLPHIN PROJECT
by Jessica Rayner 06 Oct '17

06 Oct '17

*VOLUNTEER AND INTERN RECRUITMENT FOR THE MONTENEGRO DOLPHIN PROJECT (SOUTH ADRIATIC SEA)* *OUR PROJECT* The Montenegro Dolphin Project is a scientific project born from the partnership between the Marine Mammals Research Association (DMAD) and the Natural History Association of Montenegro. Our project is the first long term research study of marine mammals in Montenegrin coastal waters. We aim to address questions about marine mammal abundance, distribution and behaviour, define critical habitats and investigate the impact of major threats. Our wider attention focuses on the promotion and implementation of awareness initiatives targeted at the local community, particularly youth. *WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR* We offer several volunteering and internship positions: this is an extremely valuable opportunity for graduates, that wish to gain experience in the marine mammal research field, and undergraduates, that would like to obtain internship academic credits. It could be used to develop a scientific project for *BSc *and* MSc thesis. *However, we are also open to accept applications from anyone with a passion for cetaceans, that is eager to learn and contribute to research. Opportunities are available immediately, between *OCTOBER 2017 – JUNE 2018* . The minimum duration of the placements is *2 MONTHS*, with possible exceptions for skilled candidates. *REQUIREMENTS* -True interest for marine conservation, self-motivation, maturity and ability to work responsibly -Ability to cohabit in a dynamic and multicultural environment; -Respect for the organization's rules and willingness to follow standards and procedures; -Proven experience of working effectively as part of a team; -Fluent English (both spoken and written) and good communication skills; -High computer literacy and willingness to learn new software applications. Background in marine biology and previous fieldwork experience are an advantage. *FIELD WORK AND RESPONSIBILITIES* -Performing land-based surveys at least three times a week, including sunrise and sunset hours; -Performing boat-based surveys at least once a week: boat surveys can be long and often tiring, so you are expected to feel comfortable on board and prepared to handle motion sickness. -Collecting dolphin sighting and behaviour data, as well as environmental and anthropogenic data; -Operating theodolite and managing its software, Pythagoras; -Data entry and analysis; -Cataloging and matching individuals of target species for photo-ID studies via Discovery software; -Raising stakeholder awareness. *TRAINING* The Montenegro Dolphin Project team will provide lectures and field work training as well as constant mentoring. You will be given the chance to learn some of the most widely used methodologies in marine mammal research such as: -Theodolite operation and Pythagoras software; -Photo-ID and Discovery software; -Data entry and analysis; -ArcGIS -R for statistical analysis *PROJECT PARTICIPATION FEE* The positions are unpaid and require a contribution fee of* 600 euros / month *which includes: -Accommodation and expenses -Internet access -Training and lectures -Scientific support -Field work -Use of the equipment Applicants are responsible for their transportation to/from Montenegro, meals, insurance (all participants should have health and/or travel insurance) and personal expenses. Where possible, we will do our best to help future volunteers explore their options for funding or fundraising to help cover the program fee. *HOW TO APPLY* Email your CV and cover letter to admin(a)dmad.org.tr (Jessica Rayner) explaining why you are the perfect asset for our team and which goals you hope to achieve with us! Please mention the PERIOD OF INTEREST AND DURATION OF AVAILABILITY! If you wish to have more info about our work and get to know us better follow our websites: *www.montenegrodolphinproject.org <http://www.montenegrodolphinproject.org/>* *www.dmad.org.tr <http://www.dmad.org.tr/>* *www.naturalhistoryassociationofmontenegro.weebly.com <http://www.naturalhistoryassociationofmontenegro.weebly.com/>* Facebook page: *www.facebook.com/DMADforNature/ <http://www.facebook.com/DMADforNature/>*

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Training course: SOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS AND COMMUNICATION OF BOTTLENOSE DOLPHINS
by Bruno Diaz Lopez 06 Oct '17

06 Oct '17

Lastest vacancies: ADVANCED FIELD RESEARCH-ORIENTED COURSE IN SOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS AND COMMUNICATION OF BOTTLENOSE DOLPHINS The BDRI team is aware of the importance of behavioural research concepts and methodology in field research projects, and therefore has created this advanced course to provide in-depth, hands on immersion into the field and laboratory methods for behavioural ecology and communication of bottlenose dolphins. This training course aims to provide specialization in behavioural methods, focusing in particular on bottlenose dolphin social behaviour and communication, achieving an integrated approach to the understanding of the behavioural complexity of this species. This course will include hands on collection of field data studying a resident population of common bottlenose dolphins in NW Spain. This means that trainees will not only learn analytical methods concerning social relationships and communication of wild bottlenose dolphins, but also how to collect behavioural and acoustical field data. In addition, the course will include PowerPoint lectures with computer based practical sessions where participants work through real field data illustrating the use of software for social structure, abundance, and bioacoustical analysis. This course is a great chance for students and professionals to boost their career skills using learning materials usually only available to students and staff at the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI). The exclusive learning model helps students to connect the conceptual material presented in each course to case studies. Participants will only need to bring their own laptop. A total of 72 hours will be spent in lectures, field work, tutorials and other class teaching. After completing this course, trainees will be able to: - Design a project to assess the social organization of a bottlenose dolphin population - Describe and quantify the vocal repertoire of a bottlenose dolphin population via computer practical sessions - Explain the importance of the photo-identification and abundance estimation methods, and discuss the strengths and weaknesses of these methods - Extract manually and automatically dolphin dorsal fin outlines from digital photographs, identify individuals and create a catalogue - Describe the patterns of association of a coastal bottlenose dolphin population and test if bottlenose dolphins have preferred or avoided associates - Outline the whistle acoustic features of free-ranging bottlenose dolphins and determine the contour of whistles by visual analyses of spectrograms - Discriminate the different types of sounds produced by bottlenose dolphins by visual and aural analysis of the sonograms - Apply appropriate statistical techniques on behavioural data sets and give an interpretation of the results Dates and Lenght: From October 23rd (arrival day 22nd September) to 1st November 2017; 10 days (72 hours). Location: Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute, Avenida Beiramar 192, O Grove, Pontevedra, Galicia (Spain). O Grove has very good transport links and is withing two hours travel by car from the two main airports in Galicia (Santiago de Compostela and Vigo). These airports can be reached by direct flights from most European cities. Course Costs: The total cost for this course is 1500 Euros including free housing at the BDRI facilities (shared room) from the night before the start of the course until the day after the end of the course (11 nights). The course fee includes training, boat based surveys, accommodation in the BDRI apartment, certificate of attendance, printed material and all associated costs during the duration of the course. The apartment sited 150 metres from the Institute has a full kitchen (gas and electricity are included) and a full set of cooking utensils. Foods of all kinds are available at the local supermarkets within walking distance at your own expense. Participants will be responsible for their transportation to and from the research centre in O Grove, Galicia, Spain. Please note that all profits generated from this course will be used to support ongoing field research at the BDRI. Application procedure Places are limited to 6 participants to allow for individual support and feedback by the tutors. This course also addressed to groups (scientists, university students) hence it is possible to arrange with the BDRI special requirements regarding language and dates to suit the different groups. To book a place, or for more information, email: info(a)thebdri.com Lastest scientific articles published by the BDRI team in 2017: - Diaz Lopez B., 2017. Temporal variability of predator presence around a fin fish farm in the North-western Mediterranean Sea. Marine Ecology 38(1), e12378. - Diaz Lopez B. and Methion S., 2017. The impact of shellfish farming on common bottlenose dolphins’ use of habitat. Marine Biology 164: 83. - Díaz López, B., Grandcourt, E., Methion, S., Das, H., Bugla, I., Al Hameli, M., Al Hameri, H., Abdulla, M; Al Blooshi, A; Al Dhaheri, S.(2017). The distribution, abundance and group dynamics of Indian Ocean humpback dolphins (Sousa plumbea) in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi (UAE). Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom, 1-9. Regards Bruno Díaz López Chief biologist and Director The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI Avenida Beiramar 192, O Grove 36980, Pontevedra, Spain www.thebdri.com 0034 684 248552 This email is confidential to the intended recipient(s) and the contents may be legally privileged or contain proprietary and private informations. It is intended solely for the person to whom it is addressed. If you are not an intended recipient, you may not review, copy or distribute this email. If received in error, please notify the sender and delete the message from your system immediately. Please note that neither the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI nor the sender accept any responsibility for any viruses and it is your responsibility to scan the email and the attachments (if any). Thank you for your cooperation.

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New article on foraging behaviour of sperm whales in a submarine canyon
by Marta Guerra 05 Oct '17

05 Oct '17

Dear all We are happy to announce our recent publication: Diverse foraging strategies by a marine top predator: sperm whales exploit pelagic and demersal habitats in the Kaikoura submarine canyon. Marta Guerra, Leigh Hickmott, Julie van der Hoop, Will Rayment, Eva Leunissen, Elizabeth Slooten, Michael Moore. (2017). Deep-Sea Research Part I, 128: 98-108. Abstract: The submarine canyon off Kaikoura (New Zealand) is an extremely productive deep-sea habitat, and an important foraging ground for male sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus). We used high-resolution archival tags to study the diving behaviour of sperm whales, and used the echoes from their echolocation sounds to estimate their distance from the seafloor. Diving depths and distance above the seafloor were obtained for 28 dives from six individuals. Whales foraged at depths between 284 and 1433 m, targeting mesopelagic and demersal prey layers. The majority of foraging buzzes occurred within one of three vertical strata: within 50 m of the seafloor, mid-water at depths of 700-900 m, and mid-water at depths of 400-600 m. Sperm whales sampled during this study performed more demersal foraging than that reported in any previous studies - including at Kaikoura in further inshore waters. This suggests that the extreme benthic productivity of the Kaikoura Canyon is reflected in the trophic preferences of these massive top predators. We found some evidence for circadian patterns in the foraging behaviour of sperm whales, which might be related to vertical movements of their prey following the deep scattering layer. We explored the ecological implications of the whales' foraging preferences on their habitat use, highlighting the need for further research on how submarine canyons facilitate top predator hotspots. A pdf can be obtained through this link: https://authors.elsevier.com/a/1Vomf3RueHM4lY? Or email marta.guerra(a)otago.ac.nz for a paper request. Best wishes, Marta ? ---- Marta Guerra PhD candidate Department of Marine Science University of Otago, Dunedin Aotearoa - New Zealand ph: +64 226784245

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Reminder: SMM Workshop -- Measuring hormones in marine mammals
by Jillian Wisse 05 Oct '17

05 Oct '17

Reminder, please join us for the following SMM workshop: *"Measuring hormones in marine mammals: Current methods, alternative sample matrices, and future directions"* The goal of the workshop is to provide a forum for researchers to discuss the use of alternative sampling matrices in endocrinology-based research in marine mammals, review state-of-the-art analytic techniques, and think about necessary validations and interpretation issues. We'll have three presentation sessions with ample time for discussion, ending the workshop with a conversation about future directions for this type of research. If you're working with alternative matrices or thinking about expanding your research program to include hormone sampling, we'd love to have you join our conversation! This full-day workshop will take place on *Saturday, October 28th, 2017 from 8:00am - 5:00pm at the Biennial conference in Halifax*. Please register via the conference website: http://www.smmconference.org/WorkshopDescriptions The list of SMM workshops and their abstracts can be seen here <https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1bYDTKBvg3Tb7JM6TVei5D9-p_pjC2N9q4e8…> . Please contact Jillian Wisse (jillian.wisse(a)duke.edu) or Stephen Trumble ( Stephen_Trumble(a)baylor.edu) with any questions. --- Jillian Wisse *Ph.D. Student in Ecology* *Marine Science and Conservation Division* *Nicholas School of the Environment,* *Duke University* jillian.wisse(a)duke.edu

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Employment Opportunity : MARINE MAMMAL MEDICINE AND PATHOLOGY VETERINARY INTERN ANNOUNCEMENT
by Maya Bott 05 Oct '17

05 Oct '17

MARINE MAMMAL MEDICINE AND PATHOLOGY VETERINARY INTERN ANNOUNCEMENT The Marine Mammal Center, an equal opportunity, non-profit employer, is seeking a Veterinary Intern to join our team. The Marine Mammal Center's mission is to expand knowledge about marine mammals- their health and that of their ocean environment-and to inspire their global conservation. Our core work is the rescue and rehabilitation of sick and injured marine mammals, supported by state-of-the-art animal care and research facilities, a corps of dedicated volunteers, and an engaged community. The Marine Mammal Center, in collaboration with the University of California at Davis and the Koret Foundation, has an exciting opportunity for a Veterinary Intern based in Sausalito, California at The Marine Mammal Center. This position requires a DVM degree or equivalent and previous marine mammal or wildlife experience is desirable. Preference is given to individuals that possess at least one year of clinical veterinary experience. The position is paid ($30,000/year) and includes health insurance and other benefits through UC Davis. Housing is available at no cost to the intern in a unit located within the Marin Headlands, and the house is shared during the busy season with veterinary residents, researchers, and externs. This Intern position is scheduled to start July 30, 2018 and is for a one-year term. The Marine Mammal Center Veterinary Science department includes multiple full time veterinarians and veterinary technicians, a pathologist, and research and rescue staff. This position reports to the Staff Veterinarian and works closely with the entire Veterinary Science team. The Veterinary Intern's responsibilities include providing medical management and care of a large number of stranded marine mammals (mostly pinnipeds), performing post mortem examinations, sample collection for various research projects, and record keeping. Opportunities for field work may be available. A research project and paper or case report is expected to be completed during the internship. If qualified, applicants should submit the following materials: 1. A cover letter/statement outlining the applicant's goals and interests in aquatic animal medicine. 2. Three letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with the applicant's academic and/or clinical performance. 3. A current curriculum vitae, limited to 4 pages. APPLY AT: https://tmmc.recruiterbox.com/jobs/fk0fqgn to upload Resume/CV, and a Cover Letter. Letters of recommendation with applicant's name in the Subject Line can be emailed to: bottm(a)tmmc.org<mailto:%20bottm@tmmc.org> Applications are due no later the Friday, December 1, 2017 A decision will be made prior to January 12, 2018

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SMM Workshop: Science communication, marketing & filmmaking
by info＠greenconcretefilms.com 05 Oct '17

05 Oct '17

Reminder: Science Communication, Marketing & Filmmaking Workshop on Saturday the 28th of October from 8am-5pm (full day). Workshop activities include: 1. Introduction to relevant science communication and social marketing 2. Development of science communication plans. 3. Filmmaking: Introduction to storytelling/filming/editing techniques. 4. Hands-on: Participants practice with own devices (phone/camera/tablet) to learn filmmaking techniques and develop individual marine mammal based science communication project strategies and content ideas aimed at for example blogs, e-books, websites and other social media. Ideally participants come to the workshop with a real-world marine mammal related outreach project idea, and the workshop will offer a practical step-by-step process, proposal and execution strategies (note: bring own tablet, phone or camera if available). Examples will be demonstrated using Apple devices such as iPad and iPhones. Register through the conference website http://www.smmconference.org/WorkshopDescriptions <http://www.smmconference.org/WorkshopDescriptions><http://www.smmconference.org/WorkshopDescriptions <http://www.smmconference.org/WorkshopDescriptions>> Any questions please contact wiebke.finkler(a)otago.ac.nz <mailto:wiebke.finkler@otago.ac.nz> www.naturesvoices.com <http://www.naturesvoices.com/>

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Research expedition opportunity on R/V Song of the Whale from the UK to Falkland Islands, autumn 2017 - Anna Moscrop
by Anna Moscrop 04 Oct '17

04 Oct '17

Dear Marmam subscribers, Marine Conservation Research are offering an exciting opportunity for participants to join the Song of the Whale team on a research expedition sailing on R/V Song of the Whale from the UK, via the Canary Islands and Cape Verde, to the Falklands Islands, Southern Ocean, departing in early November 2017. The team will be undertaking visual and passive acoustic surveys for cetaceans to contribute to ongoing conservation focused studies on the presence and distribution of cetaceans, as well as marine plastics trawls and a range of other studies which are part of ongoing marine conservation projects being undertaken by the SOTW team and collaborators. For further information see http://www.marineconservationresearch.co.uk/expeditions/uk-to-falkland-islan ds-voyage/ Several berths are still available for people interested in joining the team for this voyage, please contact MCRinfo(a)mcr-team.org for further details. Thanks and best wishes, Anna Anna Moscrop Song of the Whale team Marine Conservation Research International t. +44 1376 573071 m. +44 7801 613 539 e. amoscrop(a)mcr-team.org www.marineconservationresearch.org

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Job opportunity with MAR Specialists
by Peter Wallerstein 03 Oct '17

03 Oct '17

JOB OPPORTUNITY WITH MARNE ANIMAL RESCUE SPECIALISTS Marine Animal Rescue Specialists (MAR) is authorized by the National Marine Fisheries Service for pinniped and dolphin rescues along with whale dis-entanglement calls. Over the past three decades MAR has conducted 5,000 marine mammal rescues. In 2015, MAR rescued 495 marine mammals. We are looking for a couple of people with experience in marine mammal rescue. www.marspecialists.org You must have pinniped, especially sea lion rescue experience to apply. POSITION: MARINE ANIMAL RESCUE SPECIALIST LOCATION: MAR’s authorized territory is Los Angeles County from Pacific Palisades to Long Beach and west to Catalina, California. HOURS: 8+ HOURS PER DAY 5 DAYS PER WEEK Be prepared to work long days from January to June. SALARY: Commensurate with experience and skills JOB DESCRIPTION: Must be available five days a week, 8 hours per day for response, rescue and transportation of marine animals. Will be responsible for accurately evaluating the condition of a stranded marine animal. Will be responsible for conducting rescue operations on beaches, rock jetties, docks and other common as well as uncommon stranding locations, and to learn the proper use of specialized marine animal rescue, transportation and safety equipment. Must be able to work in cooperation with local agencies and volunteers and be responsible to know all local, state and Federal laws pertaining to the rescuing of marine animals. START: Immediately REFERENCES AND REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS · Provide background/references · A valid drivers license with no points · Minimum one year experience in rescuing seals and sea lions · Must correctly identify local marine animal species along with knowledge of birthing seasons and natural behaviors of marine animals · Some animal-related emergency medical experience · Must meet challenging physical fitness requirements · 24 hour Hazwhoper certificate · Small boat handling · Able to drive 4WD Pickup truck OTHER REQUIRED RESPONSIBILITIES: · Maintain rescue and transportation equipment · Must be enthusiastic with good communication skills and be able to work with others, including Coast Guard, Lifeguards, Police, etc. · When on-call, must answer calls promptly · Must pass County Beach Safety Driving Course MAR is looking for committed individuals who would like to make rescuing marine animals a career. Training will be provided by MAR to ensure continued high level of response for any marine animal calls. MAR will not consider candidates looking for a temporary position. Long-term applicants will be the only ones considered. Send in your cover letter, resume and references to the email address below. Contact: Peter Wallerstein, pw(a)marspecialists.org www.marspecialists.org

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Alaska SeaLife Center Winter fellowship opportunities
by Volunteer Coordinator 03 Oct '17

03 Oct '17

The Alaska SeaLife Center is now recruiting for Winter Fellowship positions! *Fellowship positions include: **Aquarium, Avian, Vet Lab, Research and Outreach, Marketing and Communications, Development, and Education/Interpretation.* *Aquarium Husbandry* *Position requirements: 30 hours per week in husbandry/10 hours per week supporting front of house operation of ticketing and interpretation* The Aquarium Husbandry Fellowship participant will be introduced to basic animal care and husbandry techniques by assisting aquarium staff in daily care and maintenance of the Center’s fish and invertebrate collection, and life support systems. Our goal is to build on the individual’s current education and background with new practical knowledge and skills which may prove useful in a career in aquatic animal care. Under guidance of Aquarium staff, the Fellow will be trained in and expected to perform the following duties: · Care for Alaska fishes, invertebrates and algae in exhibit settings and holding tanks. · Recognize animal diet needs and assist with daily diet preparations and feeding marine organisms. · Assist Aquarium staff with routine cleaning of exhibits and visitor areas, food prep room, and service areas. · Assist Aquarium staff in development and installation of new aquatic displays. · Monitor water system conditions using standard water quality measuring instruments and techniques. · Assist the Aquarium staff with specimen collections in the field and assist with field monitoring for invasive species. · Learn to recognize Alaska marine algae and animal species and their natural history. Deliver such information to visitors in our galleries and behind the scenes. Also, train for and deliver short animal care and animal encounter programs to small groups. · Maintain current and accurate records on animal health and behavior. · Assist at the ticketing counter or with Interpretation as assigned *Avian Husbandry* *Position requirements: 30 hours per week in husbandry/10 hours per week supporting front of house operation of ticketing and interpretation.* Avian Fellow will be tasked with basic seabird care and husbandry techniques. Fellow will assist in the daily care and maintenance of the Center’s Alaskan seabird collection and exhibit. This position also participates in daily educational talks and/or tours. Under guidance of Avian staff, the Fellow will be trained and expected to perform the following duties: · Perform daily animal diet preparations and routine cleaning of seabird exhibits and work areas. · Record daily observations and note the health and condition of the exhibit birds. · Work in an outdoor exhibit with moderate to strenuous physical activity, lifting up to 50lbs. · Lead daily Keeper chats and tours. · Maintain computer records and data. · Assist in habitat maintenance and breeding season preparations. · Assist the avian staff in current research projects and data collection. · Assist in avian training program · Assist at the ticketing counter or with Interpretation as assigned *Veterinary Laboratory Fellow* *Position requirements: 30 hours per week in husbandry/10 hours per week supporting front of house operation of ticketing and interpretation.* Fellow will learn about the diagnostics and instruments commonly used in a veterinary laboratory specializing in Alaskan marine mammals, birds and fish. Fellow will be exposed to the methods used to maintain a clean and efficient laboratory. Skills and procedures learned will include: blood analysis, urine and fecal analysis, fecal coliform water quality analysis, sample collection during animal exams or necropsy, and maintaining veterinary records and sample inventory. Under guidance of Laboratory staff, the Fellow will be trained and expected to perform the following duties: - Assist with set up and processing routine blood samples. Work with laboratory technicians to perform plasma/serum separations, prepare blood slides, and assist with performing serum chemistries and cell counts using an automated analyzer. - Assist with maintaining laboratory and veterinary clinic cleanliness and routine maintenance of equipment. - Assist with weekly water quality testing. - Assist with maintaining sample inventory - Assist with shipping samples to outside researchers - Assist with maintaining medical and laboratory records and logs. - Assist with organizing and inventorying consumable supplies for the laboratories. - Assist with other duties relating to the Center’s goals and mission statement as required. Applicants should be agile with a good sense of balance in order to maneuver around the exhibits and holding areas. Applicants must be comfortable working with database computer programs and sensitive equipment. Must be willing to work with frozen samples and in walk-in freezers and able to lift 50 pounds. Job duties will vary from day to day. *Although tasks will be in direct support of animal welfare, there is very little direct contact with animals in this position.* *Research and Outreach Fellow* The successful candidate will join the Horning Lab <http://www.alaskasealife.org/meet_our_scientists/77> in the Science Department. This research group currently focuses on topics including Steller sea lion reproduction and survival, movement ecology, and telemetry tag development. This spring, the lab will also be starting a new collaborative project <http://www.alaskasealife.org/science_blog_post_detail/29> aimed at understanding the elusive and enigmatic Pacific Sleeper Shark. Fellow(s) for this project will work with the research team to develop outreach and communication materials for various research programs. Primarily, we are interested in developing a story map <https://storymaps.arcgis.com/en/> (a combination of GIS data, narrative text, images, and multimedia to convey a story) and a new project website. These products will be used to communicate the importance of our research, and to engage and inspire the public. *The focus of the fellows’ time on either the story map or the website project will depend on their own interests and skills.* During their fellowship, applicants will learn about various telemetry devices used to study the survival of animals at sea, animal movement, and behaviour and have the opportunity to network with shark and marine mammal biologists. She/he will gain experience using various web and software platforms to enhance effective science communication. The fellow(s) will develop creativity, organization, communication, and data management skills. Under guidance, fellow(s) will be expected to: - Utilize large spatial datasets, images, media, and videos to develop online scientific communication materials - Develop narrative text that highlights research, analyses, and conservation messaging. - Incorporate information from internal and external sources - Work independently, but as part of the broader research team - At the conclusion of the fellowship, present findings to ASLC community - Commit to 40hrs a week/ minimum of 12 weeks - Assist with other duties relating to the Center’s goals and mission statement as required *Position requirement* *Education:* Minimum of B.Sc in Biological sciences (or other related field: Marine Biology, Zoology, Fisheries, Conservation Science, etc.), Education/Communication, or Graphic Design. Position is open to graduate students and/or recent Masters’ degree graduates. *Skills:* Successful candidates will be team players and effective communicators. Due to the variety of products the fellow(s) may work on—we are looking for candidates with any combination of: (1) experience with geographic information systems (ESRI ArcGIS) and ability to work with mapping programs. (2) A background in science communication (blogging, story maps, teaching, etc.), (3) experience with operating WordPress blogs and websites. Applicants *do not* need to have all of these skills to be successful, but should note how they want to develop specific skills during their training at the ASLC. *Marketing & Communications* The successful candidate will spend 30 hours per week in Marketing & Communications to learn and gain practical hands on experience. The remaining 10 hours will be spent assisting in front of house operations either at the ticketing counter or with our Interpretation Department. Be part of an amazing, close-knit team of marketing and communications professionals. Gain hands on experience in marketing/communications and fundraising strategies. Working directly with the department director and staff, the Fellow will be trained and expected to perform the following types of duties: - Assist the department in writing and production of publications, media outreach, social media, collateral, tour sales, specific sales campaigns, collateral distribution, and website content. - Assist in all facets of planning and execution of fundraising events, including planning, marketing, and day-of participation such as volunteer coordination, event set-up/take down, guest interface. - Assist in gathering stories, photos and other materials for member/donor recognition and use in ASLC publications. - Perform administrative tasks such as putting together marketing materials and/pr membership packets. - The Fellow will also assist sales and guest services functions, including ticketing, special events/facility rentals, and support with community interface. *· **The successful candidate will spend 30 hours per week in the Education Department to learn and gain practical hands-on experience. The remaining 10 hours will be spent assisting in front of house operations either at the ticketing counter or with our Interpretation Department.* *Education/Interpretation Fellow* · The goal of the Interpretation Department is to help our guests make a meaningful connection to the research and resources at the Alaska SeaLife Center, realizing the Center’s mission. Fellows will interpret *all* of the Alaska SeaLife Center’s static and live animal exhibits housing marine mammals, birds, fish, and invertebrates. Help maintain the physical appearance of manned exhibits and deliver announcements over the public address system. Responsibilities in the Interpretation department change daily depending on staff present and activities taking place that day. · The fellow will interpret live exhibits to the visiting public and teach interactive marine science programs to groups, Nocturne “night at the aquarium” experiences, interact with teachers and chaperones to organize food schedules for youth groups, and monitor groups during their self-guided tours. The fellow will work a flexible schedule to accommodate variable hours, including early mornings, evenings and weekends as needed. The fellow will also assist the education team on projects that may include virtual field trip elements, inventory and supply maintenance of education. Under the guidance of Education and Interpretation staff, the fellow will learn and demonstrate the ability to: · · Interpret exhibits housing live marine mammals, birds, fish and invertebrates. · · Present briefings, lectures, presentations, multi-media shows, structured and impromptu talks, and guided tours by learning to employ appropriate interpretive techniques and devices geared to the characteristics and interest of particular audiences. · · Present one-hour lessons to classes and other visiting groups. · · Assist with logistical support for workshops and conferences. · · Make presentations using the Alaska SeaLife Center’s Education Department’s virtual field trips, presentations, and exhibits and assist with multimedia elements. · · Assist at the ticketing counter or Interpretation as assigned *Development Fellow* *Position requirements: 30 hours per week in development and 10 hours per week supporting front of house operation of ticketing and interpretation* The Development Fellow will learn about best practices for nonprofit fundraising and building/maintaining donor relationships. Fundraising activities will include helping grow the ASLC memberships, identifying target prospects for grant proposals, planning and execution of various events, maintaining the donor data base, and helping with strategies to retain donors. Under guidance of development staff, the Fellow will be trained in and expected to perform the following duties: - Work with the Development Manager and Coordinator to achieve the Center’s goals with respect to fundraising and cultivation opportunities. - Assist the Development Manager and Coordinator in maintaining the Center’s donor database, Altu; to include donations, prospective donors and members. - Assist in the planning of fundraising events, which may include securing event sponsorships/donation requests. - Assist, as needed, with our main fundraising event, the Alaska Marine Gala. The fellow will become an important member of this planning team. - Assist with correspondence between the ASLC and donors and/or prospective donors - Assist in identifying new grant proposal prospect organizations or foundations. When possible participate in proposal development. - Other duties as assigned by the development department. - Assist at the Ticketing Counter or with the Interpretation Department as assigned. APPLY AT www.alaskasealife.org DEADLINE TO SUBMIT APPLICATIONS IS 10/31/17 *Thank you, * *Anna Pullins**Human Resources Specialist II/Volunteer Coordinator* Alaska SeaLife Center P.O. Box 1329 • 301 Railway Ave • Seward, AK 99664 Direct: (907) <%28907%29%20224-6307>224-6229 <%28907%29%20224-6371> Fax: (907) 224-6371 www.alaskasealife.org <https://www.facebook.com/AlaskaSeaLifeCenter> <https://twitter.com/alaskasealife> <http://instagram.com/alaskasealifecenter> <https://www.youtube.com/user/AKSeaLifeCenter> <https://www.linkedin.com/company/alaska-sealife-center>

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