November 2018 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

INTERN COORDINATOR FEBRUARY – NOVEMBER 2019, ITALY
by Davide Ascheri 06 Nov '18

06 Nov '18

* INTERN COORDINATOR FEBRUARY – NOVEMBER 2019* *BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN RESEARCH PROJECT IN IMPERIA, ITALY* *The project* The dolphins research project “Delfini del Ponente” is the first project focused on monitoring bottlenose dolphins in the Western Ligurian Sea. Due to the morphology of the seafloor, this area is not a usual habitat for this species and historically, sightings have a been more rare and sporadic than in the Levantine side of the region. The continental shelf is, in fact, very short and high depths (around 2000 m) are reached quite close to the shore making the area suitable for other cetacean species but not for bottlenose dolphins, which tend to remain in waters with depth not exceeding 200 m. Despite this knowledge of the range of the species, an interesting change has been noted in recent years in the area. Reports of bottlenose dolphins by boats, fishermen and whale watching vessels are almost tripled compared to previous seasons. Therefore, the project aims to monitor bottlenose dolphins in the region to understand the extent of this change and what drove it. It is structured on an annual basis, in order to obtain data not only on the distribution during the summer, but also changes during the different seasons. *WHERE:* Imperia, Italy *WHEN:* 1 February – 30 November 2019 Minimum required: *3 months* The intern coordinator is responsible for assisting biologists during all the research activities and coordinating the interns and high school students participating in the project. *Skills/qualification:* · Minimum age of 18 · Degree or on-going studies in biology, natural science, veterinary or similar (preferred) with strong motivation to work hard in marine mammals research · Speak, read and write in fluent English · Be adaptable as fieldwork is weather dependent · Prior experience in cetaceans or boat-based surveys · Be prepared to spend many hours on a small zodiac (5-6 m) and under the sun, able to swim and work in hard weather condition both in nearshore and offshore waters · Be prepared to spend many hours on the office (generally 6 hours per day) · Be sociable and willing as they are expected to live and work in an international team · Boat driving licence or experience in handling small boats (preferred) · The preferred candidate should have a proven track record as a team player as the project will involve working closely with other participants but also must be able to supervise small groups of. They must also be self-motivated with the drive and determination to work independently and responsibly. This is a great opportunity to get involved in cetacean research, enjoy marine biodiversity while gaining fieldwork experience, travelling and exploring the beautiful Liguria region while supporting cetacean research and conservation. Fieldwork will be made in coastal waters (Western Ligurian Sea). Surveys will be conducted onboard dedicated vessels (5-6 m inflatable boat) 10-12 times per month. Training will focus on collecting photo for photo-ID purposes, environmental, geographical (GPS) and dolphins' behavioural data. Fieldwork will help participants in gaining first-hand experience in collecting data on free-ranging cetaceans and improve skills on cetaceans boat-based surveys as well as on the use of the photo-ID technique. Surveys are weather dependent and they can change during the period. *Other Information* This position is unpaid but accommodation is provided. The intern coordinator will share an apartment with the interns. Successful applicants will be responsible for organising and paying for their own travel arrangements to and from Imperia of their own travelling to and from Imperia. *How to apply: * Send your CV and a cover letter (please indicate the preferred period, date of arriving and departure, previous experience and skills , and at least one letter of reference) to *info(a)costabalenae.it <info(a)costabalenae.it>* addressed to Davide Ascheri *no longer than the 5th of December.* Successful applicants could be contacted for a skype interview. For any further enquiry and detail, please send an email to *info(a)costabalenae.it <info(a)costabalenae.it>* Davide Ascheri Biologist - Costa Balenae Whale and Nature Watching *info(a)costabalenae.it <info(a)costabalenae.it>*

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Winter Internship - Virginia Aquarium's Stranding Response Program
by Sarah R. Mccormack 06 Nov '18

06 Nov '18

The Virginia Aquarium’s Research & Conservation Division is now accepting Stranding Response Intern applications for Winter 2019. The application deadline is November 27, 2018. Internship duration is January 7, 2019 - May 24, 2019. Please note that all positions are non-compensatory and housing is not provided by the Virginia Aquarium. Interns are fully responsible for fulfilling all requirements of their home institutions to receive academic credit. Position Overview Virginia Aquarium Stranding Response Program (VAQS) interns promote the conservation of marine animal species through research, rescue, rehabilitation, and education. Once accepted, interns will be assigned to a focus area of either necropsy or rehabilitation. Interns will be cross-trained in all aspects of stranding response, however, daily tasks will be assigned to interns according to focus area. Stranding work is unpredictable, therefore experiences will vary by internship session. VAQS staff will provide as many learning opportunities as possible during each session. Duties * Respond to live and dead marine mammals and sea turtles in the field. * Participate in all aspects of post-mortem examinations: cutting and sampling, data collection, photographing, carcass removal, and cleaning. * Perform daily husbandry tasks, including food preparation, feeding, and cleaning the rehab area, kitchen and associated supplies. * Assist staff with new admits and daily treatments of patients. Restrain animals for exams, collect vitals (heart rate, respiratory rate, temperature) and morphometrics, take photographs, administer medications, and perform wound care. * Ensure response preparedness by stocking response bags, fueling vehicles, and cleaning gear. * Assist with releases of rehabilitation patients, public outreach events, and volunteer/cooperator trainings. * Assist staff with daily administrative tasks, including answering hotline calls, data entry, and completing response paperwork. * Complete other projects and tasks as assigned by VAQS staff. Qualifications * Must be at least 18 years old. * Must be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program, or have recently graduated (within last two years). * Must be physically fit with the ability to lift 50lbs and walk long distances on the beach in adverse conditions such as extreme heat and cold, humidity, rain, and wind. * Must be self-motivated, articulate, mature, reliable, and responsible. Should work well independently as well as with a team. * Should be comfortable around dead and decomposing animals. * Should be comfortable driving large pick-up trucks and vans (preferred). Willing to learn how to drive response vehicles, if accepted (required). * Background in biology and familiarity with stranding response (preferred). * Experience with DSLR cameras and Microsoft Access (preferred). Position Requirements * Attend VAQS orientation on January 7 and the City of Virginia Beach Defensive Driving Course on January 10. * Possess a valid driver’s license. Internship Learning Objectives Develop fundamental hands-on stranding response and rehabilitation skills: * Perform post-mortem examinations on sea turtle and marine mammals. * Perform basic health assessments of rehabilitation patients, including vitals collection, wound treatment, administering medications, and blood processing. * Complete Sea Turtle Stranding and Salvage Network (STSSN) and Level A forms. * Enter stranding data in Microsoft Access. Intern Schedule Intern is expected to be available 3-4 days per week, 8am-4:30pm. Weekend and holiday coverage is expected. Minimum Commitment Required 24 hours per week for the duration of the internship. Intern Supervisor/Mentor VAQS Volunteer Manager and project supervisor. Work Location Virginia Aquarium’s Marine Animal Care Center Application Requirements If applying via email, please send application to interns(a)virginiaaquarium.com<mailto:interns@virginiaaquarium.com> and copy vaqstranding(a)gmail.com<mailto:vaqstranding@gmail.com>. A complete Stranding Response Intern packet must include the following components. Incomplete applications will not be considered. * Cover letter including preferred focus area (necropsy or rehabilitation) and internship expectations. While we will do our best to accommodate intern preferences, staff will make the final focus area determination. There is some flexibility with internship start/end dates; please include any known schedule conflicts in your cover letter. * Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center internship application form * Contact information for three references; one must be an academic reference. * Resume * College transcript(s) For more information about the application process, please visit: https://www.virginiaaquarium.com/about-us/Pages/internship-application.aspx Sarah McCormack Stranding Technician Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center Stranding Response Program 757-385-6485 (office) 757-385-7575 (stranding hotline)

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New publication: Microplastics in the stomach contents of common dolphin (Delphinus delphis) stranded on the Galician coasts (NW Spain, 2005–2010)
by Alberto Hdez Glez 05 Nov '18

05 Nov '18

Dear MARMAM readers: On behalf of my co-authors, I am pleased to announce the publication of the following article: * Title: "Microplastics in the stomach contents of common dolphin (Delphinus delphis) stranded on the Galician coasts (NW Spain, 2005–2010)" * By: Alberto Hernandez-Gonzalez, Camilo Saavedra, Jesus Gago, Pablo Covelo, M. Begoña Santos and Graham J. Pierce (2018). * Marine Pollution Bulletin 137: 526–532<https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.10.026> * https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.10.026 Abstract: Plastic debris is currently recognised as one of the major global threats to marine life. However, few data exist on the presence and abundance of microplastics (plastics < 5mm in size) in marine mammals. This is the first record of the presence of microplastics in the digestive tracts of marine mammals from the Iberian Peninsula. This study made use of 35 samples of common dolphin stomach contents. Microplastics were identified in all the samples analysed, an average of 12 items per stomach although abundance varied widely from one stomach to another. Most plastic items were small fibres although some fragments and a bead were also found. Excluding the smallest fibres as possible airborne contamination, the estimated occurrence of microplastics could drop to as low as 94%. Although factors affecting accumulation of microplastics and their effect on common dolphins are unknown, the fact that all stomachs analysed contained microplastics is a cause for concern. The following link provides 50 days' free access to the article: https://authors.elsevier.com/c/1X~mA,ashq8SF<https://authors.elsevier.com/c/1X%7EmA,ashq8SF> For any further questions or pdf requests please email me. Best regards, Alberto ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Alberto Hernandez-Gonzalez Ph.D. Instituto Español de Oceanografía http://www.ieo.es/ e-mail: alberto.hernandez(a)ieo.es<mailto:camilo.saavedra@ieo.es>

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Postdoc Opportunity: Tracking cetaceans with towed arrays
by Eva-Marie Nosal 05 Nov '18

05 Nov '18

A postdoctoral position is available at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa (UHM) for a highly motivated candidate with a strong background in bioacoustics, underwater acoustics, electrical engineering, oceanography or related field. The selected candidate will advance and apply passive acoustic techniques to detect, classify, and (especially) track vocal cetaceans using towed hydrophone arrays. This is a collaborative project between the Department of Ocean and Resources Engineering at UHM and the Cetaceans Research Program (CRP) at the NOAA Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center (PIFSC). To view the full job description, including details on major duties, primary and secondary qualifications, and to apply online please go to https://bit.ly/2JHOhm8 OR visit the RCUH website (https://www.rcuh.com/) click on Job Postings, and enter job ID#18579. Closing date: November 23, 2018. We look forward to hearing from you! If you have any questions about the position please contact Eva-Marie Nosal at nosal(a)hawaii.edu and/or Erin Oleson at erin.oleson(a)noaa.gov -- Eva-Marie Nosal, PhD Associate Professor and Department Chair Department of Ocean & Resources Engineering University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa --

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2019 Marine Mammal Rescue & Rehabilitation Internship
by Heather Henderson 05 Nov '18

05 Nov '18

2019 Marine Mammal Rescue & Rehabilitation Internship Announcement California Wildlife Center is excited to announce the following internship opportunities for 2019! California Wildlife Center is located in Malibu, California, and responds to reports of stranded marine mammals 365 days a year. Our rehabilitation facility is active during the region’s period of highest stranding activity, which is February through June. There are four, 2-month sessions: Session I: February 1st to the end of March Session II: March 1st to the end of April Session III: April 1st to the end of May Session IV: May 1st to the end of June Time Commitment: 40 hours per week. Summary/Program Description The California Wildlife Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of injured, orphaned and sick native wildlife. CWC fulfills this mission through marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation, and treatment of avian and terrestrial wildlife in our rehabilitation hospital. This internship will provide an exciting and challenging educational experience in the marine mammal rehabilitation field. Working closely with the Marine Mammal program staff, individuals will be exposed to many aspects of stranding response and rehabilitation, including: logistics, assessment, capture/restraint, transportation, husbandry, data collection, and public relations. The marine mammal teams also perform rescues on coastal native marine avian species, providing interns a view into the skills necessary for capture and transport of these species. To minimize cross contamination potential, all rehabilitative care of non-marine mammal species is handled solely by the hospital staff / volunteers. Please visit our website for more information: http://cawildlife.org/volunteer/internshipsexternshipspreceptorships/ Heather A. Henderson Stranding Coordinator California Wildlife Center P.O. Box 2022 Malibu CA 90265 310-458-WILD (9453) www.cawildlife.org<http://www.cawildlife.org/> [medium CA_Wildlife_Center_Logo_Since_1998_CMYK500px]

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2019 Research Internships in Maui, Hawaii
by PWF Research Department 05 Nov '18

05 Nov '18

Pacific Whale Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting whales and other marine wildlife through research, education and conservation. Our researchers have studied whales and dolphins throughout the Pacific for over 35 years and currently conduct or support projects in Hawaii, Australia, Ecuador and Chile. A research internship with Pacific Whale Foundation is an excellent opportunity to gain experience in marine mammal research. *Commitment & Responsibilities* We seek performance-driven, dedicated individuals for long-term internships based in Maui, Hawaii. Interns must be available on a full-time basis, including weekends as needed. This internship is primarily office-based and focuses on photo-identification cataloging. Interns assist research staff with processing and analyzing data collected for mysticete (humpback whale) and odontocete (toothed whale and dolphin) studies and related projects. In the office you will learn: how to input and organize data, how to quality control data, how to photographically identify dolphins and whales, how to use database software, and learn about the general biology and ecology of Hawaii’s marine wildlife. In the field you will learn: how to scan for and identify whales and dolphins, how to collect photo-ID data, how to collect underwater footage, and how to make behavioral observations of wild animals. Field days can range from 8-12 hours in length and occur approximately 1-2 times per week. Interns must be able to spend many hours on the water and on shore in sometimes extreme weather conditions, including high temperatures and carrying heavy loads of equipment. *APPLY FOR A RESEARCH INTERNSHIP* *Requirements* - Possess a university degree or be advanced undergraduates in biology, zoology, marine biology, ecology, or related field; - Available on an unpaid full-time basis for the entire internship period; - Available for all field work; - Have a mature attitude towards research; - Proficient with computers and data entry; specifically using PCs and Microsoft Office; - Willing to spend long hours in front of a computer doing repetitive tasks; - Have a strong work ethic and superior organizational skills; - Be independent, adaptable, and a fast-learner; - Able to collect and process data in a detail-oriented manner; - Have boating experience; - Able to speak, read and write English fluently. *Compensation* There is no financial compensation for internship positions and no housing is provided. Interns are responsible for their own travel and living expenses. There is public transportation available on the island. *Application Process* Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. or authorized to legally remain in Hawaii if they are not U.S. citizens. International applicants will be considered, but it is the responsibility of the applicant to acquire necessary visas and documentation. Interested candidates should submit an application with the following: - A cover letter including your availability, i.e. preferred time period (1 page only); - A resume describing training, experience and relevant skills (2 pages only); - Names and contact information of three references. Please specify in your cover letter which internship period you are applying for. *Season* *Internship Period* *Application Deadline* Winter-Spring January 28– April 26 November 15 Summer May 1 – August 30 February 1 Fall September 4 – December 20 June 1 Please send these items as e-mail attachments (PDF preferred) to research(a)pacificwhale.org - No phone calls or drop-ins, please! Mahalo, *Research Department* Pacific Whale Foundation 300 Ma'alaea Rd., Suite 211 Wailuku, HI 96793, USA Phone: +1 808-856-8338 Email: research(a)pacificwhale.org Website: www.pacificwhale.org -- CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission and any accompanying attachments contain information belonging to the sender which may be confidential and legally privileged. This information is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to whom this electronic mail transmission was sent as indicated above. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution, or action taken in reliance on the contents of the information contained in this transmission is strictly prohibited. If you have received this transmission in error, please notify the sender immediately and destroy all copies of this transmission and all attachments. Thank you!

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International Veterinary In-Residence (IVIR) 2019 Application Open
by Shawn Johnson 05 Nov '18

05 Nov '18

The Marine Mammal Center International Veterinary In-Residence (IVIR) The Marine Mammal Center, International Veterinary Training Program is recruiting for the 2019 International Veterinary In-Residence (IVIR) position. The IVIR position provide marine mammal veterinarians across the globe an opportunity to gain experience in marine mammal medicine and rehabilitation. It is expected that successful applicants will return to their pre-existing programs prepared to implement training programs of their own. More information about the IVIR can be found here: http://www.marinemammalcenter.org/science/ivir/ This position requires a DVM degree or equivalent. Preference will be given to veterinarians that are currently employed with a marine mammal rehabilitation program or non-profit equivalent. This is an unpaid position, but a stipend is provided for food and incidentals. Airfare to San Francisco, California, as well as shared housing at a Center Guest House located within the Marin Headlands, will be provided as part of the program. The house is shared during the busy season with other students, researchers, externs and the veterinary intern. This position is available during the Center's busy season for up to three months at a time, between March and September. The Center will assist in obtaining a J-1 Visa for the training program but the applicant will be responsible for completing all required visa paperwork, and obtaining an international driver’s license. Strong written and spoken English is a requirement The Marine Mammal Center veterinary staff includes full and part time veterinarians, four veterinary technicians, a medical technologist and research staff. Goals of the program include assisting the veterinary medical staff in providing medical management of a large number of stranded marine mammals (mostly pinnipeds); performing post mortem examinations, sample collection for various research projects, and record keeping. Collaborative research is highly valued at TMMC, and development of a research project and scientific publication, either clinical or using retrospective necropsy data, is highly encouraged. Past IVIRs have attended international conferences, scientific workshops, or visited other collaborative partners. Opportunities for additional professional development will be supported as they arise. If qualified, applicants will be required to submit the following materials below. * A current curriculum vitae, limited to 4 pages. * Two letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with the applicant's academic and/or clinical performance. Written responses to the following questions: * Why are you the best candidate for our next Veterinarian In-Residence? * Please describe in detail the experience you have as a clinician (any species). * Please describe in detail your experience working with marine mammals. Describe experience with both live and dead marine mammals, in the wild and/or in captive care. * Please describe in detail any research experience you have. * Please describe current marine mammal stranding response in your country. * How do you hope the IVIR program will help you to achieve your future goals? What do you see yourself doing in 5 years? Applications are due Friday, 07 December 2018. Apply @ https://tmmc.recruiterbox.com/jobs/fk019s4/ A selection of 1-3 IVIRs will be made in the beginning of January 2019. Questions? Contact Dr. Shawn Johnson at VetSciAdmin(a)tmmc.org<mailto:VetSciAdmin@tmmc.org>. Please put "Question regarding IVIR program 2019" in the subject heading

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Volunteer and intern recruitment for winter and spring season for the Montenegro Dolphin Research
by aylin akkaya 03 Nov '18

03 Nov '18

VOLUNTEER AND INTERN RECRUITMENT FOR THE MONTENEGRO DOLPHIN RESEARCH (SOUTH ADRIATIC SEA) OUR PROJECT The Montenegro Dolphin Research is a scientific project born by Marine Mammals Research Association (DMAD). Our study is the first long term research study of marine mammals in Montenegrin coastal waters and running in weekly bases since 2016. 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 starting from January 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 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.-Promoting citizenscience activitiesTRAINING 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 mappingPROJECT PARTICIPATION FEE The positions are unpaid and require a contribution fee of 700 euros / month which includes: -Accommodation and expenses-Transportation between the project sites within the country-Training and lectures-Scientific support-Field work-Use of the equipmentApplicants 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 akkayaaylinn(a)gmail.com (Aylin Akkaya Bas) 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: https://www.dmad.org.tr/volunteering All the best,Dr. Aylin Akkaya BasScientific Director of Marine Mammals Research AssociationDeniz Memelileri Araştırma Derneği (DMAD)+38260024363skype: aylin.akkaya3info(a)dmad.org.tr www.dmad.org.tr

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New publication: Baleen whale cortisol levels reveal a physiological response to 20th century whaling
by Crain, Dani 02 Nov '18

02 Nov '18

We are pleased to announce our most recent publication in Nature Communications entitled "Baleen whale cortisol levels reveal a physiological response to 20th century whaling", a copy of the paper can be found here: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-018-07044-w.pdf Authors: SJ Trumble, SA Norman, DD Crain, F Mansouri, ZC Winfield, R Sabin, C Potter, CM Gabriele, S Usenko Abstract: One of the most important challenges researchers and managers confront in conservation ecology is predicting a population’s response to sub-lethal stressors. Such predictions have been particularly elusive when assessing responses of large marine mammals to past anthropogenic pressures. Recently developed techniques involving baleen whale earplugs combine age estimates with cortisol measurements to assess spatial and temporal stress/stressor relationships. Here we show a relationship between baseline-corrected cortisol levels and corresponding whaling counts of fin, humpback, and blue whales in the Northern Hemisphere spanning the 20th century. We also model the impact of alternative demographic and environmental factors and determine that increased anomalies of sea surface temperature over a 46-year mean (1970–2016) were positively associated with cortisol levels. While industrial whaling can deplete populations by direct harvest, our data underscore a widespread stress response in baleen whales that is peripheral to whaling activities or associated with other anthropogenic change. Corresponding authors: Dr. Stephen Trumble: stephen_trumble(a)baylor.edu and Dr. Sascha Usenko: sascha_usenko(a)baylor.edu Thank you for your time, Dani Crain -- Danielle Crain Present Your PhD (PyPhD) Co-founder and Presenter | Est. 2017 Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) Graduate Student Speaker Series Co-Organizer | Est. 2017 Baylor University, LEAP | Doctoral Candidate, 2019 Duke University | MEM, 2012 UC Santa Cruz | B.Sc, 2009 E-mail: dani_crain(a)baylor.edu <http://sites.baylor.edu/trumblelab/dani-crain-phd-student/>https://danicrain.netlify.com/ [1493323537725_PastedImage] Laboratory of Ecological & Adaptational Physiology

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Humpback Whale Photo-ID Batten Fellowship - Virginia Aquarium
by Sarah R. Mccormack 02 Nov '18

02 Nov '18

The Virginia Aquarium’s Research & Conservation Division is now accepting a Humpback Whale Photo-ID Batten Fellow for Winter/Spring 2019. The application deadline is December 5, 2018. The position with the research team is approximately 12 weeks long (480 hours). These Fellowships include a stipend to help offset personal and incidental expenses however housing is not provided. It will be the responsibility of the Batten Fellow, not VAQS, to ensure that any requirements for academic credit at a home institution are fulfilled. POSITION OVERVIEW Virginia Aquarium Stranding Response Program (VAQS) fellows promote the conservation of marine animal species through research, rescue, rehabilitation, and education. The Virginia Aquarium’s Research & Conservation Division is offering a Humpback Whale Photo-ID Fellowship opportunity based in Virginia Beach, VA for college or post-graduate students this winter/spring. We are looking for a self-motivated, detail-oriented individual to assist with photo-ID and data/image processing. Fellows will also be cross-trained in marine mammal and sea turtle stranding response, however, the focus of the internship will be humpback whale photo-ID. VAQS staff will provide as many learning opportunities as possible during the fellowship. Batten Fellows are expected to bring a high level of dedication and scientific interest to the program and will be integrated more fully into staff activities compared to our unpaid internship positions. Research Program Batten Fellows will be treated as professionals and will be expected to work side by side with staff members, volunteers and interns on a daily basis. We expect research fellows to treat this position as if it were a full-time position for the length of the fellowship. DUTIES * Assist VAQS volunteers and staff with research projects focused on humpback whale photo-ID and stranding response * Assist with processing images collected from VAQ’s whale watch vessel * Assist with matching dorsal fin and fluke images to the mid-Atlantic Humpback Whale Catalog (MAHWC) * Assist VAQS staff with data entry and processing * Assist with providing weekly summary reports of whale sightings to VAQ’s education and outreach department * Assist with stranding response, rehabilitation efforts, and field activities involving sea turtles and marine mammals * Assist VAQS volunteers and staff in field stranding response and/or recovery of dead (comprise ~90% of VA strandings) and live marine mammals and sea turtles. Activities may be conducted under adverse weather conditions * Participate in postmortem data collection and necropsies (animal autopsies) * Assist with the care of animals in rehabilitation, including but not limited to: food preparation, feeding, extensive cleaning (mopping floors, laundry, dishes, cleaning tanks), restraint during exams/procedures, and other animal husbandry duties QUALIFICATIONS * Be 18 years of age or older * Have a valid U.S. driver’s license and good driving record * Be a rising senior, recent graduate or currently pursuing a post-graduate degree in a science-based program * Demonstrate interest in a career in marine science * Be able to swim and be comfortable in and around open water and boats * Have field research experience (preference will be given to those who have prior photo-ID experience) * Be detail-oriented * Experience with DSLR cameras * Have basic math and computer skills using MS spreadsheets, experience with relational databases, data entry and analyses (e.g. experience with Microsoft Access, GIS, R, etc. preferred) * Have experience with basic photo management software (e.g. ACDSee, IMatch) * Should be comfortable around dead and decomposing animals * Be able to lift and carry 25 pounds and assist with lifting and moving larger loads * Be able to hike up to 5 miles on beaches carrying gear * Be physically and mentally fit: you will be expected to handle field activities, extreme weather, constantly changing environmental conditions, extended periods of intense activities, dead and decomposing animals (both during response and necropsy), prolonged periods of travel, insects, sick and injured animals, euthanasia, etc. * Be self-motivated and able to perform activities both as part of a team and independently * Be available to perform support activities (24-7) as needed during the period of appointment POSITION REQUIREMENTS * Successful candidates will be required to complete a final report on their fellowship work which will be submitted to the Aquarium’s Batten Fellowship Endowment Committee * Fellows will give an oral (MS PowerPoint) presentation summarizing their experience at the conclusion of the appointment * Must possess a valid driver's license. FELLOWSHIP LEARNING OBJECTIVES Develop fundamental hands-on skills in humpback whale photo-ID, stranding response and rehabilitation: * Develop skills in survey methodology * Perform systematic data and image processing tasks * Develop skills in matching fluke and dorsal fin images, photo-processing and with photo and data management software * Produce educational materials for VAQ whale watch operations * Perform post-mortem examinations on sea turtle and marine mammals * Perform basic health assessments of rehabilitation patients, including vitals collection, wound treatment, administering medications, and blood processing. INTERN SCHEDULE: Fellow is expected to be available 5 days per week, 8 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Weekend and holiday coverage is expected. MINIMUM COMMITMENT REQUIRED 480 hours INTERN SUPERVISOR/MENTOR VAQS Volunteer Manager and project supervisor. WORK LOCATION Virginia Aquarium’s Marine Animal Care Center APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS If applying via email, please send application to interns(a)virginiaaquarium.com<mailto:%20interns@virginiaaquarium.com> and copy vaqstranding(a)gmail.com<mailto:%20vaqstranding@virginiaaquarium.com>. A complete Fellowship application packet must include the following components. Incomplete application packets will not be considered. * Cover letter (including your available start date, any photo-ID and stranding response experience, and a statement explaining what you hope to gain from your experience and how you may apply these skills to future experiences) * Resume (including GPA, completed coursework, and previous experience) * College Transcript(s) * One reference letter (from an advisor or professor that may speak on your academic background) and contact email and phone number for a second reference * Interview Sarah McCormack Stranding Technician Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center Stranding Response Program 757-385-6485 (office) 757-385-7575 (stranding hotline)

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