December 2017 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Outreach and Research Volunteers X4
by HWDT Visitor Centre 07 Dec '17

07 Dec '17

Outreach and Research Volunteers X4 Your first steps in turning a passion for nature, into a career in conservation. The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust has been leading the way for the conservation of cetaceans in the Hebrides for over two decades. As the trusted voice and leading source of information in the region, HWDT research has critically advanced the understanding of Scotland’s whales, dolphins and porpoises while working directly with communities to encourage the stewardship of our rich seas. Now, HWDT are seeking FOUR dedicated HWDT Volunteers to assist in the delivery of our 2018 summer outreach and research programmes. Join us, to help deliver our community outreach programme; collect data aboard our research vessel Silurian; gain experience in research techniques and environmental education and importantly, help us to protect our precious marine species. You will be based in Tobermory on the Isle of Mull, Inner Hebrides. Mull is an island of rich cultural heritage and rugged natural landscapes. Tobermory, a bustling harbour town, is a flourish of human activity in an otherwise wild environment. The waters around our island are frequently visited by minke whales, bottlenose dolphins, harbour porpoises and a wide range of other amazing marine life. The perfect candidate will have confident communication skills, some pre-existing knowledge of marine biology and a hardworking, positive outlook. Full job description, visit https://hwdt.org/vacancies/researchandoutreachvolunteer This opportunity is unique in providing experience in support of both our outreach and research programmes, as well as relevant boat-based field experience. Dates: Monday 26th March - Friday 28th September 2018. This voluntary position involves full-time working hours (37.5 hours across 5 days a week) including evenings and weekends. Candidates must be able to commit to the full 6 months. To apply, please send a covering letter and up-to-date CV to Ella Potts, at visitorcentre(a)hwdt.org . Application deadline is 19th of January. Interviews will be held the week commencing the 29th of January.

1 0

New Children's Book - A Seal Named Patches
by Roxanne Beltran 06 Dec '17

06 Dec '17

To communicate the excitement and importance of marine mammal research and conservation, we have written a children's book - *A Seal Named Patches*. It tells the story of researchers flying in helicopters and driving snow machines across the ice in Antarctica, looking for one Weddell seal who has been studied for 30 years. The book is full of facts about seal behavior, physiology, ecology, and more. The book is 48 pages (targeted for ages 4-8) and is available now on Amazon <http://amazon.com/Seal-Named-Patches-Roxanne-Beltran/dp/1602233314>. *Proceeds will be used to provide bilingual Spanish-English versions of the book to primarily English Learner schools.* We hope that our new book will inspire the next generation of marine mammal scientists. Thank you for your support, Roxanne & Patrick -- Roxanne Santina Beltran NSF Predoctoral Fellow Ph.D. Student, Burns and Breed Labs University of Alaska Anchorage/Fairbanks www.roxannebeltran.com

1 0

posting for post doctoral position
by Diana L. Reiss 06 Dec '17

06 Dec '17

Rockefeller University/Hunter College Postdoctoral Associate Position We are seeking applications for a 2 year (renewable upon mutual agreement) Postdoctoral Associate position in beginning in 2018 that will be a joint appointment between the Laboratory of Integrative Neuroscience, Center for Studies in Physics and Biology of Dr. Marcelo Magnasco at The Rockefeller University and the Dolphin Cognition and Communication Laboratory of Dr. Diana Reiss at Hunter College City University of New York. The postdoctoral research associate will be in integral and active member of an interdisciplinary research group M2C2 conducting cognitive and communication studies with dolphins at our research laboratory at the National Aquarium in Baltimore, Maryland. The ideal candidate would be interested in animal cognition, animal learning, behavior and communication and big data analysis. The postdoctoral associate will receive a competitive stipend and will work with guidance from a multidisciplinary mentoring team. Responsibilities will include conducting daily cognitive research sessions with dolphins, maintaining computers and interfaces between the dolphin lab and our remote university labs and assisting in the analysis of behavioral and acoustic data. Applicants are expected to be near completion of a terminal doctorate degree, have a strong research record with evidence of exceptional scholarship, be self-motivated, and embrace interdisciplinary research. The position is open to students including but not restricted to marine mammal behavior, biology, communication, bioacoustics, behavioral analysis, bioacoustics, computational biology and bioinformatics. We are looking for a person that has research skills and is animal and people oriented as the research is conducted with dolphins in a public aquarium. Computer software skills, experience and fluency in Matlab are required; video processing and bioacoustics analysis skills are preferred but not requisite. Experience with statistical and behavioral analysis is preferred. Research background in dolphin behavior and bioacoustics is preferred but not required. The position requires living in Baltimore. To apply for this position, send an email to magnascolab(a)rockefeller.edu. Please provide a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and a one-page summary of your research interests. Three letters of recommendation should be sent to this address as well. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. The start date can be as soon as January 1, 2018. Rockefeller University and Hunter College are equal opportunity employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, veteran status or disability. Diana Reiss, PhD Professor Director, Animal Behavior & Conservation MA Program Department of Psychology Hunter College dlr28(a)columbia.edu Office phone: 212-650-3432 Lab phone: 212-772-4322

1 0

New publication polar bears
by Sabrina Tartu 06 Dec '17

06 Dec '17

Dear MARMAM list, We are pleased to announce our new publication in "Scientific Reports", on the effects of climate change and pollutants on polar bears energy metabolism: Tartu, S., Lille-Langøy, R., Størseth, T.R., Bourgeon, S., Brunsvik, A., Aars, J., Goksøyr, A., Jenssen, B.M., Polder, A., Thiemann, G.W., Torget, V., Routti, H., 2017. Multiple-stressor effects in an apex predator: combined influence of pollutants and sea ice decline on lipid metabolism in polar bears. Scientific Reports 7, 16487. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-017-16820-5 Abstract: There is growing evidence from experimental and human epidemiological studies that many pollutants can disrupt lipid metabolism. In Arctic wildlife, the occurrence of such compounds could have serious consequences for seasonal feeders. We set out to study whether organohalogenated compounds (OHCs) could cause disruption of energy metabolism in female polar bears (Ursus maritimus) from Svalbard, Norway (n = 112). We analyzed biomarkers of energy metabolism including the abundance profiles of nine lipid-related genes, fatty acid (FA) synthesis and elongation indices in adipose tissue, and concentrations of lipid-related variables in plasma (cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, triglycerides). Furthermore, the plasma metabolome and lipidome were characterized by low molecular weight metabolites and lipid fingerprinting, respectively. Polychlorinated biphenyls, chlordanes, brominated diphenyl ethers and perfluoroalkyl substances were significantly related to biomarkers involved in lipid accumulation, FA metabolism, insulin utilization, and cholesterol homeostasis. Moreover, the effects of pollutants were measurable at the metabolome and lipidome levels. Our results indicate that several OHCs affect lipid biosynthesis and catabolism in female polar bears. Furthermore, these effects were more pronounced when combined with reduced sea ice extent and thickness, suggesting that climate-driven sea ice decline and OHCs have synergistic negative effects on polar bears. This publication is *open access* and available at the following links: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-017-16820-5 Best wishes, Sabrina

1 0

Job Opportunity: CBMWC Project Officer
by CBMWC 06 Dec '17

06 Dec '17

Please could you post this job opportunity to the mailing list. JOB OPPORTUNITY CBMWC-WTSWW logo NEW The Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales (WTSWW) is seeking to recruit a Project Officer for the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre (CBMWC). We are looking for an energetic and outgoing person to join our Living Seas team at the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre (CBMWC) in New Quay, west Wales. You will be responsible for the day to day operation and administration of CBMWC, this will include our Visitor Centre and shop as well as the day to day coordination, inductions and training of CBMWC volunteers. You will lead on the development, coordination and delivery of a programme of inspiring environmental education and community awareness activities linked to our Living Seas work, respond to queries and requests for marine conservation related talks and activities. Job Title: CBMWC Project Officer Location: Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre (CBMWC), New Quay, Ceredigion. Duration: Initially 12 months Hours: 5 days per week with evening / weekend work. Flexi/ TOIL offered. Salary: £17k Start date: As soon as possible. Application Deadline: Noon, 2nd January 2018. Interviews will be held at the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre, New Quay, Ceredigion on Tuesday 9th January 2018. Those candidates selected for interview will be notified by end of Friday 5th January 2018. If you have not heard from us by this date please assume that your application has been unsuccessful. Please note WTSWW does not have a budget to cover interview expenses. Important: All correspondence regarding your application will be conducted by email. Please ensure that you supply an email address that we can contact you on and you can access during the above time frame. Please note that, as this post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, a satisfactory enhanced level Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Disclosure check will be required for the successful candidate. Further details and an application form can be downloaded from www.welshwildlife.org/jobs/cbmwc-project-officer/. Please note we do not accept stand-alone CVs. For information or queries call 01545 560224 before Friday 22nd December as our offices will be closed from Friday 22nd December until Wednesday 3rd January 2018. Completed application forms can be emailed to Sarah Perry on <mailto:s.perry@welshwildlife.org> s.perry(a)welshwildlife.org or posted to Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre, Patent Slip Building, Glanmor Terrace, New Quay, Ceredigion SA45 9PS. All the best, Sarah Dr Sarah Perry Living Seas Science Officer ------------------------- The Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales C/O Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre ------------------------- Ffon/Phone: 01545 560224

1 0

New publication: Laser photogrammetry reveals variation in growth and early survival in free-ranging bottlenose dolphins
by Cheney, Barbara J. 05 Dec '17

05 Dec '17

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce our new publication in Animal Conservation: Cheney, B., Wells, R.S., Barton, T.R. & Thompson, P.M., 2017. Laser photogrammetry reveals variation in growth and early survival in free-ranging bottlenose dolphins. Animal Conservation DOI: 10.1111/acv.12384 Abstract Growth and body condition can be used as indices of health and fitness, but are difficult to collect for populations of conservation concern where individuals cannot be captured. We incorporated a laser photogrammetry system into boat-based photo-identification surveys that underpin individual-based studies of cetacean populations. These data were integrated with >25 years of observations from a temperate bottlenose dolphin population in Scotland to investigate the influence of sex on growth patterns, effects of birth order on calf size and the longer term consequences of variation in early growth. Field measurements of the distance from the blowhole to the dorsal fin were made in multiple years from 87 dolphins that had been followed from birth, ranging in age from newborn to 26 years. These estimates were validated against direct measurements of 12 individuals that had previously been captured and released in Florida and two study individuals that subsequently stranded. Using relationships derived from other stranded individuals, age-specific body lengths were used to produce growth curves that were based entirely on remote observations. Multilevel regression growth curve analyses suggested males and females showed similar patterns of growth, unlike bottlenose dolphins in sub-tropical areas, and growth was best described by a Richards' growth curve. Newborn length was unrelated to sex; however, females' first calves were shorter than subsequent calves. Sample sizes remain small, yet there was evidence of fitness consequences of variation in calf length; calves that died in their first winter were significantly shorter than those that survived. The incorporation of this simple-to-use and inexpensive method into individual-based photo-identification studies provides new opportunities to non-invasively investigate drivers of variation in growth and the demographic consequences of variation in early growth in cetaceans from protected populations. Our article is published online for early view and open access at http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/acv.12384/full Kind regards, Barbara __ Barbara Cheney Research Fellow Lighthouse Field Station University of Aberdeen George Street Cromarty Ross-shire IV11 8YL Tel: 01381 600548 [Aberdeen_Uni_logo_big low res]<http://www.abdn.ac.uk/lighthouse/> [FB_FindUsOnFacebook-320] <https://www.facebook.com/lighthousefieldstation> [follow us on twitter logo] <https://twitter.com/cromartylh> The University of Aberdeen is a charity registered in Scotland, No SC013683. Tha Oilthigh Obar Dheathain na charthannas cl?raichte ann an Alba, ?ir. SC013683.

1 0

Volunteer Opportunity: Brighton Dolphin Project
by Dylan Walker 04 Dec '17

04 Dec '17

Dear Marmamers, We are pleased to announce the following two-month volunteering opportunity (with the opportunity to apply for a subsequent paid post) with the Brighton Dolphin Project in Brighton, United Kingdom. *Overview* An initiative of the World Cetacean Alliance, the Brighton Dolphin Project and associated Visitor Centre will be launched in March 2018. We require a dedicated volunteer able to work full time for 2 months beginning Monday 8 January 2018 in preparation for the launch. Following launch there will be an opportunity to apply for the paid post which will follow. The person in this role will report directly to the CEO, work closely with colleagues at WCA HQ, and will directly manage a team of volunteers. The goal of the Brighton Dolphin Project is to: 1) Further our understanding of cetaceans off the coast of Brighton/Sussex through dedicated research and the collection of anecdotal sightings. 2) Improve awareness of the importance of local marine ecosystems and species through educational experiences and outreach. This will include dolphin watching simulations at the new visitor centre on Brighton beach, and activities including classroom sessions and visits to marine protected areas and nature reserves within the Brighton and Lewes Downs Biosphere Reserve, engaging children and young people. 3) Link with local stakeholders to encourage sustainable practices in local communities such as low carbon usage, reductions in plastic use and ghost fishing gear, and responsible tourism. *Responsibilities* *Community Engagement* · Build relationships, engage community, and represent the Brighton Dolphin Project and our partners, colleagues and supporters. Conduct educational workshops and visits. *Research* · Encourage and support collaborations with local stakeholders, including fishers and recreational boat users to gather effort and sightings-related data, photographs, and video footage of cetaceans and other megafauna off the Sussex coast. · Set the framework for developing a long-term dataset using standardized methodology. · Analyse data and disseminate all findings through displays and activities at the Visitor Centre, on social media, through the press and publications when possible. *Management * · Work alongside WCA staff to set strategy and guide the project in the achievement of its mission. · Develop an annual budget and fundraise through educational outreach in compliance with WCA policies and procedures and in coordination with the Office Manager. · Liaise with WCA staff to ensure coordinated planning, collaborative work efforts, integrated programming and shared success towards agreed goals. · Lead, supervise and support the dynamic development of the Visitor Centre, working with a dedicated team of volunteers. *Communication * · Lead and coordinate communication among Brighton Dolphin Project volunteers. · Foster and develop community engagement and awareness in Brighton and along the Sussex coast. · Collaborate with local media to promote communication of research and conservation messaging. · Represent the Brighton Dolphin Project to the press, local businesses, donors, staff, volunteers, and the public. *Funding Development * · Partner with colleagues to support and lead efforts to raise funds through donor cultivation, donor events, retail sales, public and corporate funding opportunities. *Knowledge* · Experience and knowledge of cetaceans and marine conservation issues. · Track record in teaching and training. · Very strong communication skills and ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team to advance the mission of the Brighton Dolphin Project. · Highly organized and detail-oriented with a strong ability to prioritize and deliver against responsibilities and duties. · Strong management experience. · Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate a team through shared mission and goals. · Ability to thrive in a multi-tasking, high energy environment with shifting priorities. · Ability to excite and engage prospective supporters of the organisation through public speaking, meetings, and personal outreach. · Track record of success in solicitation of funds from a diverse range of donors. *Qualifications* • Degree or higher qualification in environmental / biological / educational subject. • Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to supervise and motivate volunteers and team members. • A proven track record of communicating with different audiences and age groups. *TO APPLY*: Please send your Resume and a Cover letter to: dylan(a)worldcetaceanalliance.org Applications must be sent in electronic form no later than 18th December 2017. Dylan Walker Chief Executive Officer *World Cetacean Alliance * *T *+44 (0)1273 355011* M *+44 (0)7900 471490* S *dylan.wca *E *dylan(a)worldcetaceanalliance.org* W *worldcetaceanalliance.org *W2 *whaleheritagesites.org *W3 *worldwhaleconference.org <http://www.worldwhaleconference.org> *A *Studio 3, Lower Promenade, Madeira Drive, Brighton, BN2 1ET, UK *The World Cetacean Alliance (WCA) is a Partnership of over 90 non-profit organisations, whale and dolphin watching tour operators and individuals in 40 countries worldwide working collaboratively to protect cetaceans and their habitats. World Cetacean Alliance, the Secretariat to the Partnership, is a UK registered Charity no. 1160484. * *The content of this e-mail is intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom it is addressed. If you have received this communication in error, be aware that forwarding it, copying it, or in any way disclosing its content to any other person, is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the author by replying to this e-mail immediately.* *Please consider the environment before printing this email or it's attachments. *

1 0

New publication about Paracoccidioidomycosis ceti in an Atlantic bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) from Brazil
by Carlos Sacristán Yagüe 04 Dec '17

04 Dec '17

Dear Colleagues, I am pleased to announce the publication of our article about paracoccidioidomycosis ceti in an Atlantic bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) from Brazil. Sacristán, C., Esperón, E., Ewbank, A.C., Kolesnikovas, C.K.M., Catão-Dias, J.L. (2017). Paracoccidioidomycosis ceti in an Atlantic bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus), Brazil. Transboundary and Emerging Diseases, doi: 10.1111/tbed.12781 In this manuscript we diagnosed paracoccidioidomycosis ceti (former lacaziosis-like disease) in a wild Atlantic bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) from Brazil, a country with human paracoccidiodomycosis reports. We molecularly identified Paracoccidioides brasiliensis, instead of Lacazia loboi, as the etiological agent. To the authors’ knowledge this work constitutes the first detection of the paracoccidiodomycosis etiological agent in South American cetaceans, confirming the etiology of the disease. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/tbed.12781/full Articles available at link above or email: carlosvet.sac(a)gmail.com Best regards Carlos Sacristán

1 0

ORCA North Sea Wildlife Officer Vacancy
by Anna Bunney 04 Dec '17

04 Dec '17

ORCA are pleased to announce that we are now recruiting for two North Sea Wildlife Officers for the 2018 season. Wildlife Officers live and work on board the DFDS King Seaways passenger ferry, sailing from Newcastle (U.K.) to Ijmuiden (The Netherlands), collecting vital data on cetaceans and other marine wildlife sighted, whilst also showcasing the wildlife to passengers out on deck. Wildlife Officers enthuse passengers of all ages about the incredible marine wildlife around them on their ferry journey on the on board Wildlife Centre, where presentations, children's activities and lecture are held. Due to the passenger demographic on board, we are looking for at least one Wildlife Officer who can speak English and Dutch fluently (German language skills would also be an advantage). These exciting roles provide the opportunity to contribute to one of ORCA’s core work areas and champion North Sea marine wildlife to the public. Further details here: http://www.orcaweb.org.uk/about/vacancies Vacancies | About - ORCA - Looking out for Whales and Dolphins<http://www.orcaweb.org.uk/about/vacancies> www.orcaweb.org.uk Vacancies We are now recruting for our 2018 ORCA Wildlife Officers! We have Wildlife Officer vacancies for our North Sea and North-East Atlantic (English Channel ... To apply, please send your C.V. and complete an application form (which can be downloaded from the vacancies page on our website) to info(a)orcaweb.org.uk<mailto:info@orcaweb.org.uk> with the subject ‘North Sea Wildlife Officer Applications’. Please note that you need to be 21 years of age or older to work on board and you must have the legal right to work in the U.K. to apply. The deadline for applications is midnight on Sunday 10th December, with interviews being held on the 24th January 2018. We look forward to hearing from you. Anna Bunney Education Coordinator ORCA Anna.bunney(a)orcaweb.org.uk<mailto:Anna.bunney@orcaweb.org.uk> 02392 832565

1 0

ECS abstract deadline this week!
by Rebecca Boys 04 Dec '17

04 Dec '17

Dear MARMAM, This is a reminder that the abstract deadline for the ECS 2018 conference in La Spezia is this Friday 8th December. We look forward to seeing you in La Spezia! http://www.europeancetaceansociety.eu/conference/32nd-annual-conference-ita… <http://www.europeancetaceansociety.eu/conference/32nd-annual-conference-ita…> Thank you, Rebecca -------------------------------------------------------------- Rebecca Boys Marine Biologist ECS Student Representative IMAR - Dept. Oceanography and Fisheries University of the Azores 9901-862 Horta, Faial, Azores [https://attachment.outlook.office.net/owa/rebeccaboys@hotmail.com/service.s…]

1 0