April 2017 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

volunteer recruitment for the Montenegro Dolphin Project
by Elisa Gaggioli 19 Apr '17

19 Apr '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 study 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 behavior, 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 whose love for dolphins is strong and sincere. Opportunities are available between *MAY – SEPTEMBER 2017*. The minimum duration of the placements is *2 MONTHS*, with possible exceptions for skilled candidates. *Please note one of these positions will be given to a graduate or student with background in media communication, who will be responsible to strengthen the "social face" of our project.* *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 dolphins sighting and behavior 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 the most popular methodologies used in marine mammals research such as: -Theodolite operation and Pythagoras software; -Photo-ID and Discovery software; -Data entry and analysis; -ArcGIS *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. *HOW TO APPLY* Email your CV and cover letter to admin(a)dmad.org.tr (Elisa Gaggioli) 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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e-learning PAM
by Stephanie Barnicoat 19 Apr '17

19 Apr '17

Hi All, Seiche Training has now gone LIVE! We now offer the Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) Leve 1 qualification as an e-learning course. This course is ideal if you want to become a qualified PAM Operator, but don't have the time to attend the full course. On this course, you will learn about acoustic monitoring, local mitigation guidelines and get a thorough introduction into PAMGuard at your convenience. Finally, to upgrade to become a fully qualified PAM op, you will just need to attend one of our practical vessel-based Training sessions. We are taking bookings now http://www.seichetraining.com/pam-level-1-elearning Seiche Ltd Stephanie Barnicoat Business Support Seiche Ltd Bradworthy Industrial Estate, Langdon Road, Bradworthy, Holsworthy, Devon, EX22 7SF, United Kingdom T: +44(0)1409 404050 E: s.barnicoat(a)seiche.com W: www.seiche.com Registered in England & Wales No. 3475558, Registered Office: The Custom House, The Strand, Barnstaple, Devon The information contained in this e-mail transmission, and any documents, files or previous e-mail messages attached to it, is privileged and confidential, and solely intended for the use of the individual(s) to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient or a person responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient you should not read, copy, distribute or otherwise use the information, and you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution or use of any of the information contained in or attached to this message is strictly prohibited. If you have received this message in error, please notify sender immediately and delete this e-mail and attached documents.

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A new approach to estimate fecundity rate from inter-birth intervals
by Monica Arso Civil 18 Apr '17

18 Apr '17

Dear MARMAM colleagues, We are pleased to announce that the following paper has been published online: Arso Civil, Mònica, Barbara Cheney, Nicola J. Quick, Paul M. Thompson, and Philip S. Hammond (2017) A new approach to estimate fecundity rate from inter-birth intervals. Ecosphere 8(4):e01796. 10.1002/ecs2.1796 Abstract: Accurate estimates of fecundity rate are key to population assessments and effectively direct conservation efforts. We present a new approach to estimate fecundity rate based on the probability of a female giving birth, conditional on a previous birth t years ago, from which an expected inter-birth interval (IBI) can be estimated. We use generalized linear mixed-effects models to account for individual and temporal variability and apply the approach to individual reproductive histories of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) from the east coast of Scotland. We estimate a fecundity rate of 0.222 (95% CI = 0.218–0.253) and an expected IBI of 4.49 yr (95% CI = 3.94–4.93 yr). We use simulated data samples to show that the approach produces estimates with a minimum bias of <3%. Simulations are also used to investigate the effect of the most common data-driven biases in the estimates of birth intervals and fecundity rate; we recommend longitudinal studies of at least 10 yr and capture probabilities of at least 0.3 when using this methodology. The approach may be modiﬁed to incorporate other parameters of interest and should be applicable to any population with comprehensive data on birth intervals. A PDF copy of the work can be downloaded from: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ecs2.1796/full Please do not hesitate to contact me for any question regarding our work. Best Regards, Monica Arso Dr Monica Arso Research Fellow Sea Mammal Research Unit Scottish Oceans Institute University of St Andrews KY16 8LB Tel: +44 (0) 1334 462629 Twitter: @_SMRU_ http://synergy.st-andrews.ac.uk/harbourseals/ *********************************************** The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland : No SC013532

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New Publication : Evaluating morphometric and metabolic markers of body condition
by Joanna Kershaw 18 Apr '17

18 Apr '17

Dear colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the publication of the following article in Ecology and Evolution: Kershaw, J. L. Sherrill, M. Davison, N. J. Brownlow, A. Hall, A. J. 2017. Evaluating morphometric and metabolic markers of body condition in a small cetacean, the harbour porpoise (*Phocoena phocoena*). Ecology and Evolution. DOI: 10.1002/ece3.2891 Abstract: Mammalian body condition is an important individual fitness metric as it affects both survival and reproductive success. The ability to accurately measure condition has key implications for predicting individual and population health, and therefore monitoring the population-level effects of changing environments. No consensus currently exists on the best measure to quantitatively estimate body condition in many species, including cetaceans. Here, two measures of body condition were investigated in the harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena). First, the most informative morphometric body condition index was identified. The mass/length2 ratio was the most appropriate morphometric index of 10 indices tested, explaining 50% of the variation in condition in stranded, male porpoises with different causes of death and across age classes (n = 291). Mass/length2 was then used to evaluate a second measure, blubber cortisol concentration, as a metabolic condition marker. Cortisol is the main glucocorticoid hormone involved in the regulation of lipolysis and overall energy balance in mammals, and concentrations could provide information on physiological state. Blubber cortisol concentrations did not significantly vary around the girth (n = 20), but there was significant vertical stratification through the blubber depth with highest concentrations in the innermost layer. Concentrations in the dorsal, outermost layer were representative of concentrations through the full blubber depth, showed variation by sex and age class, and were negatively correlated with mass/length2. Using this species as a model for live cetaceans from which standard morphometric measurements cannot be taken, but from which blubber biopsy samples are routinely collected, cortisol concentrations in the dorsal, outermost blubber layer could potentially be used as a biomarker of condition in free-ranging animals. The publication is available at *http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ece3.2891/full <http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ece3.2891/full>* Best wishes, Joanna Kershaw -- Joanna Kershaw Sea Mammal Research Unit Scottish Oceans Institute University of St Andrews KY16 8LB Twitter: @_SMRU_ The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland : No SC013532

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FW: Training courses
by Stephanie Barnicoat 18 Apr '17

18 Apr '17

Dear All, We are running our Protected Species Observer (PSO) course 12-13th June, in Monterey Bay, USA, where you will be trained in protected species monitoring and mitigation procedures. Book now http://seichetraining.com/boem-bsee-pso-course Also please note our up and coming Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) Level 1 courses, where you will receive training on the actual equipment you'll use in your job at sea, as well as learning in the class room and on a boat. "Superb course...thorough, relevant and engaging" said a previous attendee. Book now for our 14-16 June Monterey Bay, USA http://seichetraining.com/pam-course-level-1 Seiche Ltd Stephanie Barnicoat Business Support Seiche Ltd Bradworthy Industrial Estate, Langdon Road, Bradworthy, Holsworthy, Devon, EX22 7SF, United Kingdom T: +44(0)1409 404050 E: s.barnicoat(a)seiche.com W: www.seiche.com Registered in England & Wales No. 3475558, Registered Office: The Custom House, The Strand, Barnstaple, Devon The information contained in this e-mail transmission, and any documents, files or previous e-mail messages attached to it, is privileged and confidential, and solely intended for the use of the individual(s) to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient or a person responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient you should not read, copy, distribute or otherwise use the information, and you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution or use of any of the information contained in or attached to this message is strictly prohibited. If you have received this message in error, please notify sender immediately and delete this e-mail and attached documents. Please note that our offices will be closed on Bank Holiday Friday 14th and Monday 17th April 2017

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Fourth International Symposium on Acoustic Communication by Animals, July 2017
by Julie Oswald 18 Apr '17

18 Apr '17

Book It .... July 18-21, 2017 View this email in your browser <http://us6.campaign-archive2.com/?u=2607cc3d8d5d4a7ac3d16866a&id=f42a628fdb…> 4th International Symposium on Acoustic Communication by Animals <https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http://acousticcommunicationbyanimals…> July 18-21, 2017 Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium Omaha, Nebraska, U.S.A. The Acoustical Society of America has partnered with Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium to bring together a diverse community of scientists, engineers, teachers and students to the *Fourth International Symposium on Acoustic Communication by Animals*, to be held July 18-21, 2017 on the grounds of the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha, Nebraska, U.S.A. This four-day symposium is designed to address contemporary topics in animal acoustic communication across a wide range of taxa, including arthropods, lizards and amphibians, as well as birds, fish and terrestrial and marine mammals. The emphasis will be to share ideas, data, and methodologies in the area of animal bioacoustics and communication and to promote networking opportunities in this ever-growing discipline. Please plan to attend, participate and share your work. *When and Where?* Dates: *July 18-21, 2017* Location: *Omaha’s* *Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium* * Omaha, Nebraska, U.S.A.* For more information regarding the location, please visit the *4th International Symposium Website* <https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http://acousticcommunicationbyanimals…> . *Desert Dome, Henry Doorly Zoo* Pre-Symposium Workshop The scientific program of the 4th International Symposium will be preceded on Monday, 17 July 2017, by a half-day workshop (1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.) in which key questions related to The Impact of Anthropogenic Noise on Animal Acoustic Communication will be discussed. The specific goal of the event is to objectively identify problem areas related to the influence of anthropogenic noise in diverse ecosystems, as well as consideration of strategies to mitigate scientifically-validated, adverse consequences of exposure to man-made noise. The ultimate goal of the workshop is the development of a guide to enable noise mitigation strategies to promote and/or restore natural soundscapes. The workshop is free to all registrants. Omaha, Nebraska *Call for Abstracts* We invite you to participate in the *4th International Symposium*. Those interested in giving an oral or poster presentation must submit an abstract by *May 1st, 2017*. The abstract submission period is now open. Two-page extended abstracts must be submitted using the format of the template provided on the abstract submission website. For details on the submission process and to submit an abstract, please visit the *4th International Symposium Website* <https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http://acousticcommunicationbyanimals…> . *Important Dates* Workshop: *July 17, 2017* (1-5 pm) Symposium: *July 18-21, 2017* Abstract Submission Deadline: *May 1, 2017* Early Registration Deadline: *May 1,2017* Hotel Reservation (special rates) Deadline:* June 21, 2017* *Keynote and Invited Speakers* We have an extraordinary slate of keynote and invited speakers, covering a broad range of topics and taxa, including: - Ximena Bernal (*Purdue Univ.*) - Dan Blumstein (*Univ. of California Los Angeles*) - Henrik Brumm (*Max Planck Institute for Ornithology*) - Jakob Christensen-Dalsgaard (*Univ. of Southern Denmark*) - Eileen Hebets (*Univ. of Nebraska, Lincoln*) *(keynote)* - Vincent Janik (*Univ. of St. Andrews*) *(keynote)* - Laura Kloepper (*St. Mary's College*) - Georg Klump (*Univ. of Oldenburg*) - Geoff Manley (*Univ. of Oldenburg*) - Marta Manser (*Univ. of Zurich*) *(keynote)* - Laura May-Collado (*Univ. of Vermont*) - Robert McCauley (*Curtin Univ.*) - Cory Miller (*Univ. California San Diego*) - Susan Parks (*Syracuse Univ.*) - Colleen Reichmuth (*Univ. of California Santa Cruz*) - Johannes Schul (*Univ. of Missouri*) - Brad Story (*Univ. of Arizona*) - Frédéric Theunissen (*Univ. of California Berkeley*) *(keynote)* For more information, please visit the 4th International Symposium Website <https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http://acousticcommunicationbyanimals…> . *Registration is Now Open* Early registration is now open and the deadline for special, discounted rates is *May 1st, 2017*. For details regarding registration fees and to register for the symposium, please visit the 4th International Symposium Website <https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http://acousticcommunicationbyanimals…> . *Key Links* Symposium Website <https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http://acousticcommunicationbyanimals…> Abstract Submission <https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http://acousticcommunicationbyanimals…> Registration <https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http://acousticcommunicationbyanimals…> Hotel Reservation <https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http://acousticcommunicationbyanimals…> *Scientific Program Organizing Committee* - Mark Bee (*University of Minnesota*) - Kirsten Bohn (*Johns Hopkins University*) - Micheal Dent (*University at Buffalo, SUNY*) - Robert Dooling (*University of Maryland*) - Christine Erbe (*Curtin University*) - JoAnn McGee (*Boys Town National Research Hospital*) - Julie Oswald (*University of St. Andrews*) - Ed Walsh (*Boys Town National Research Hospital*) (Chair) *Advisory Committee* - Whitlow Au (*University of Hawaii*) - Susan E. Fox (*Acoustical Society of America Executive Director*) - David Mellinger (*Oregon State University*) - Cynthia Moss (*Johns Hopkins University*) - Charles Schmid (*Former Acoustical Society of America Executive Director*) - Andrea Simmons (*Brown University*) *Contact Information* For more information or questions, please contact Edward Walsh at 1-402-498-6701 <(402)%20498-6701> or Edward.Walsh(a)boystown.org. *AcousticCommunicationByAnimals.org <https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http://AcousticCommunicationByAnimals…>* Designed by ASA Web Development Office <https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http://www.asaweboffice.org/&c=E,1,0M…> | Powered by Acoustical Society of America <https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http://www.acousticalsociety.org/&c=E…> <http://www.twitter.com/> <http://www.facebook.com> <http://mailchimp.com> *Copyright © 2017 Acoustical Society of America, All rights reserved.* 4th Symposium Acoustic Communication by Animals *Our mailing address is:* Acoustical Society of America 1305 Walt Whitman Road Melville, NY 11747 Add us to your address book <http://acousticalsociety.us6.list-manage1.com/vcard?u=2607cc3d8d5d4a7ac3d16…> Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences <https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http://acousticalsociety.us6.list-man…> or unsubscribe from this list <https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http://acousticalsociety.us6.list-man…> -- "If you have the desire for knowledge and the power to give it physical expression, go out and explore" -Apsley Cherry-Garrard

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New publication: The first confirmed decline of a delphinid population from Brazilian waters
by Alexandre Azevedo 17 Apr '17

17 Apr '17

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce our recent article published on-line (first) in the journal *Ecological Indicators*: *The first confirmed decline of a delphinid population from Brazilian waters: 2000-2015 abundance of Sotalia guianensis in Guanabara Bay, South-eastern Brazil. *Alexandre F. Azevedo, Rafael R. Carvalh, Maja Kajin, Monique Van Sluys, Tatiana L. Bisi, Haydée A. Cunha, José Lailson-Brito Jr. DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolind.2017.03.045 <http://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolind.2017.03.045> *Abstract*: The abundance of Guiana dolphins (*Sotalia guianensis*) in Guanabara Bay, Rio de Janeiro, South-eastern Brazil, was investigated during the period 2000 – 2015 using mark-recapture models applied to photo-identification data. A combination of Pradel’s model and Pollock’s robust design was applied to estimate abundance and other population parameters, such as apparent survival (Φ), capture probability (p) and seniority probability (γ). Total population size was estimated by correcting the estimates derived from the Pradel robust design model for the proportion of marked individuals in the population. The corrected abundance estimates decreased drastically (37%) between 2000 (62, 95% CI 59-65) and 2015 (39, 95% CI 37-40), and can be explained by a combination of low survival and recruitment rates. Determining the ultimate causes for the decline in this Guiana dolphin population is difficult, but the likely reasons are of anthropogenic nature, such as by-catch, habitat degradation, intense traffic of vessels and exposure to immunosuppressive and endocrine-disrupting pollutants. We provide the first quantitative evidence of population decline in a delphinid from Brazilian waters. Conservation and management actions are urged to change this scenario. Other local dolphin populations in Brazil, which are exposed to the same impacts, may also be currently declining or are expected to do so in the near future. For this reason, we emphasize that anthropogenic impacts upon estuarine/coastal species that exhibit site fidelity warrant greater attention, because such impacts may lead to the same negative scenario observed in Guanabara Bay. Article available at: https://authors.elsevier.com/a/1Ur3a,XRNLVD2C Best Regards, Alexandre -- Dr. Alexandre de Freitas Azevedo Laboratório de Mamíferos Aquáticos e Bioindicadores - MAQUA Faculdade de Oceanografia, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro Rua São Francisco Xavier, 524 sala 4002E Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro, 20550-013, RJ, Brasil azevedo.alex(a)uerj.br 55 21 2334-0065 - 2334-0795 55 21 99742-4993 CV: http://lattes.cnpq.br/5095457245652366

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PSO / MMO Training in Boston, MA June 10-11
by abostwick 17 Apr '17

17 Apr '17

MPSC is holding Protected Species Observer (also known as Marine Mammal Observer) training on June 10-11 in Boston, Massachusetts. This class will meet in downtown Boston, and will include a cruise to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, one of the top whale-watching destinations in the world! This will provide opportunity to gain experience identifying the animals while at sea. We will also practice using SLR cameras and discuss manual settings for wildlife photography. This BOEM/BSEE-compliant PSO certification course covers the regulations for reducing seismic survey impacts to marine mammals and sea turtles, documenting animal behavior, 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/graduate/government discounts available), along with various identification guides and regulatory documents (which will be yours to keep), a whale-watching cruise to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, and advice on applying to PSO positions. If you would like to see a PSO training course in your area, or are interested in private training, please contact Angela at ABostwick(a)PSOCertifications.com, by phone at 832-523-2402, or visit the website at http://www.protectedspeciesobservers.com/ <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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RESEARCH ASSISTANTS OPPORTUNITY WITH THE CETACEAN RESEARCH UNIT, WESTERN AUSTRALIA
by Valeria Senigaglia 16 Apr '17

16 Apr '17

SEEKING RESEARCH ASSISTANTS FOR THE MURDOCH CETACEAN RESEARCH UNIT, WESTERN AUSTRALIA Program: The South West Marine Research Program is a long-term, monitoring project on the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins of South West Australia. The program is based in Bunbury (South of Perth in Western Australia) and is a collaboration between Murdoch University Cetacean Research Unit and numerous industry and non-profit partners. Previous research focused on dolphin population dynamics, abundance, social structure, habitat use, conservation, genetic and foraging ecology http://mucru.org/research-projects/south-west-marine-researchprogram/ PhD Outline: Here, I am seeking THREE research volunteers assist in collecting data for my PhD, from the 8th of June till the 17th of September 2017. The project explores the ecological consequences and socio-economic drivers of a food provisioning program of free-ranging bottlenose dolphins in Bunbury, Western Australia. The feeding is conducted under a state license by Dolphin Discovery Center as part of their touristic offer. I examine both the short- and long-term ecological consequences of food provisioning at both the individual and population level. Specifically, the project aims to determine potential effects of food provisioning on dolphin behavioral budgets, maternal care, home range sizes, reproductive success and social dynamics. Moreover, the project explores the satisfaction level and attitude towards food provisioning of staff and visitors. Ecological and socio-economic consequences of food provisioning will then inform management planning. Data on dolphin behavior are collected from boat and from the beach where the food provisioning takes place. Additionally, questionnaires will be distributed to the visitors and staff of the Dolphin Discovery Centre. This experience will be most useful to students or anyone wishing to pursue a career in behavioral ecology, conservation and social science or marine science. http://mucru.org/our-research/group-members/valeria-senigaglia/ Murdoch University Cetacean Research Unit, South West Marine Research Program office based at the Dolphin Discovery Centre in Bunbury. http://www.dolphindiscovery.com.au/ Duties: Field: Behavioural data collection, spotting wildlife, boat driving, social science, photo identification Office: Data entry, fin matching, project organization. Computer programs used for data are: FinBase, ACDSee, Microsoft Access, Excel and Word. Assistants should be adaptable and patient as fieldwork is highly weather dependent. Fieldwork will vary between weekdays and weekends and can be long hours and on consecutive days. Preferred skills/traits: 1. Enrolled in or completed a degree in biology, marine science, animal behaviour or a related field. 2. Previous field experience with wildlife (behavioural field data collection, photoidentification). 3. Boating experience. 4. Be enthusiastic, team oriented and have a positive attitude as well as a genuine interest in wildlife science. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide monetary compensation or living provisions and research assistants will be responsible for their own travel to Western Australia and living expenses. Please note, the Bunbury backpackers and the Rosa Hotel provide good discounts for volunteers and research assistants of the Dolphin Discovery Centre. Moreover, additional help in finding shared accommodation can be provided. If you are interested in volunteering or interning, please provide a short CV and a cover letter to the attention of valeria.senigaglia(a)gmail.com. Cheers, Valeria Senigaglia PhD Candidate Murdoch Cetacean Research Unit Murdoch University Australia

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Duke University Marine Lab Summer Course: Marine Mammals (July 10-August 11, 2017) -- Beaufort, NC
by Katie Wood 15 Apr '17

15 Apr '17

Greetings! The Duke University Marine Lab is accepting enrollments for the summer Marine Mammals course taught by Dr. Renee Albertson & Dr. Andy Read, July 10- August 11, 2017. The mammals course may be taken concurrently with Conservation Biology and Policy or Drones in Marine Biology, Ecology and Conservation. See below for details. To enroll: click here<https://app.applyyourself.com/AYApplicantLogin/fl_ApplicantLogin.asp?id=duk…> Marine Mammals (Renee Albertson, Andy Read (Taught Monday, Wednesday, Friday) This field-intensive course covers the biology, management and conservation of marine mammals using a variety of tools including genetic analysis and photo-identification. Detailed consideration is given to adaptation to a marine environment, ecology, history of exploitation of the large whales, and conservation. Laboratory and field exercises address behavior, ecology, and communication of local populations of marine mammals. The course is suitable for both undergraduate and graduate students. BIO 376LA (undergrad)/ENV 776LA (grad) 4 Duke credits. Conservation Biology & Policy (Doug Nowacek, Grant Murray, Paul Greenberg) (Taught Tuesday & Friday) Immersion in marine conservation biology and policy. Basic tools of marine conservation for 21st Century society intertwined with current issue modules (e.g., fisheries/aquaculture). Hands-on, team-based, experiential learning w/meaningful faculty-student engagement. Phenomena affecting maintenance and loss of biodiversity (climate change, habitat destruction); key concepts of social science and law for instituting conservation policy; unique experiential learning highlighting ecological, economic, cultural, and institutional complexity associated with current conservation issues. BIO 270A (undergraduate)/BIO709A (grad). 3 Duke credits. Drones in Marine Biology, Ecology and Conservation ( David Johnston) (Taught Tuesday & Friday) Includes a full overview of past and emerging applications for ecology and biology of marine species and coastal habitats with in-depth discussion on future of drone applications in coastal biological and ecological research. Comprehensive exploration of current drone technologies, including detection limits of target species, payload selection, operational procedures aeronautical concepts, rules and regulations, safety, mission planning, aircraft design, maintenance, data collection, management and analysis. Biological and technical lab components tailored to student interests: Active participation in megafaunal or environmental research and data analysis. Building, operating and maintaining aircraft, programming for manual and autonomous flight. The use of unoccupied aircraft systems (UAS) is changing how marine scientists collect data on animals and the environments they inhabit. This course introduces students to the basics of using UAS in marine environments, presenting examples of existing and emerging applications, detailing the types of sensors used for marine applications, describes the sampling complexities of the marine environment, and provides and overview of typical workflows and data management. Details on regulatory and permitting requirements to fly UAS and legally and safely are also covered. The lab portion of the course will focus on basic aeronautics, flight planning and simulations, and the design, assembly, operation and maintenance of unoccupied aerial vehicles.ENV 335A (undergrad) /735A (grad). 3 Duke credits. For additional information on Duke's new Marine Robotics & Remote Sensing Facility, visit the website<http://superpod.ml.duke.edu/uas/>. For additional information: please visit our web pages: * For graduate students: https://nicholas.duke.edu/marinelab/programs/graduate/summerII * For undergraduate students: https://nicholas.duke.edu/marinelab/programs/undergraduate/summerII Tuition & Fees<https://nicholas.duke.edu/marinelab/programs/undergraduate/tuition-fees> are available on our website. These courses are appropriate for undergraduate, postbaccs, graduate students & professionals. Students will receive a transcript from Duke University at the conclusion of the course. I'll be happy to answer any questions & will assist getting students enrolled - we hope to see some of you in Beaufort this summer! All the best, Katie Katie Wood Senior Program Coordinator Duke University Marine Laboratory www.dukemarinelab.net 135 Duke Marine Lab Rd. Beaufort, NC 28516 Find us on Facebook<https://www.facebook.com/DukeMarineLab>, Instagram<https://instagram.com/dukemarinelab/>, and Twitter<https://twitter.com/DukeMarineLab>!

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