January 2019 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Bottlenose Dolphin Internship for Summer 2019
by Jessica Taylor 06 Jan '19

06 Jan '19

Bottlenose DolphinPhoto-ID Internship Position for Summer 2019 The Outer Banks Centerfor Dolphin Research (OBXCDR)/Nags Head Dolphin Watch are currently acceptingapplications for the 2019 summer season. One internship position is available.The research season is May 1 – October 5. Successful applicants must be able tocommit for the entire season. The Outer Banks Centerfor Dolphin Research is a 501 c(3) non-profit organization dedicated to theconservation of bottlenose dolphins in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Ourprogram’s goal is to gain an understanding of the population dynamics, movementpatterns, and behavioral ecology of coastal bottlenose dolphins in the soundsand coastal waters near the Outer Banks. The OBXCDR conducts a long-term photo-identificationmonitoring study of bottlenose dolphins in Roanoke, Croatan, Albemarle, Pamlicoand Currituck Sounds. Data is collected via dedicated small boat surveys aswell as opportunistically from a local dolphin watch. Information from themonitoring study is used to examine annual population trends, habitatutilization, social associations, and ecology of the dolphins as well as aid inefforts to examine bottlenose dolphin stock structure and movement patternsalong the U.S. Atlantic coast. Interns will gain experience in field datacollection, photo-identification of dolphins, and environmental education. Formore information about the OBXCDR, please visit: obxdolphins.org. The internshipposition will consist of bottlenose dolphin photo-identification,opportunistic/dedicated field research, and environmental education.Responsibilities include: § Mate/naturalistduties aboard the Nags Head Dolphin Watch: This involves the implementation of educational programs,including public speaking aboard the eco-tours (using a microphone andone-on-one) to educate others about local dolphin biology and marineconservation, as well as additional mate duties. The mate/naturalist will alsocollect opportunistic photo-identification data aboard the eco-tours(photographing dorsal fins, measuring environmental parameters, and recordingsighting data), organize opportunistic data for inclusion in thephoto-identification catalog, and assist in general maintenance of fieldequipment. For additional information about the Nags Head Dolphin Watch,please see www.nagsheaddolphinwatch.com (50% of time) § Photo-identificationof dolphins in the lab:This includes photo sorting, grading, and matching, sighting data entry, andassisting in maintenance of the long-term OBX catalog using the MS Accessdatabase FinBase. Additional time willalso be spent completing an independent project in which the intern will matchthe OBX catalog to the Mid-Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin Catalog (MABDC) toexamine seasonal movement patterns. The MABDC is a long-term collaborativeeffort to gain a greater understanding of the stock structure and movementpatterns of bottlenose dolphins along the U.S. Atlantic coast. This independentproject should be completed within the span of the internship. The finalproduct of this project will be a final project report (40% of time) § Boat-basedphoto-identification: The intern willassist with dedicated boat-based photo-identification surveys to examine abundances,site fidelity, and prevalence of skin lesions of bottlenose dolphins in RoanokeSound. Responsibilities include operating a small vessel during transectsurveys and sightings, assisting with photo-identification, collecting sightingdata for dolphin groups, and general maintenance of field equipment. (10% oftime) This internshiprequires a minimum commitment of 36 hours per week, consisting of eco-tours,lab photo-identification, and dedicated surveys. The intern will carry outmate/naturalist duties and opportunistic photo-identification aboard the NagsHead Dolphin Watch for 3-4 days per week throughout the field season while 1-2days per week will be spent conducting photo-identification in the lab.Abundance surveys will be conducted 3-4 times per month from May throughOctober. Salary: Thisinternship is a paid position. Applicants will receive an hourly salary for thenaturalist position on the dolphin watch. Tips aboard the dolphin tours areexpected, but not guaranteed. Housing: Although housing is not provided, we will assist you in finding housingaccommodations in the Outer Banks. Interns are responsible for their owntransportation to and from the Outer Banks as well as to and from the fieldsites and lab. The successfulapplicant would ideally have the following qualifications: § Minimum of 18 years of age and recentlygraduated with an undergraduate degree in marine biology, biology, zoology, orrelated field § Strong interest in the marine environment andconservation § Ability to swim § Basic proficiency in MS Access, Word, Excel,and Picture Manager as well as digital photography § Enthusiasm, attention to detail, responsible, independent,focused, and dedicated § Works well in a team environment as well asindividually § Experience in boating and marine field datacollection § Experience in environmental outreach preferred § Experience in photo-identification preferred § First AID/CPR certification preferred § Due to employment aboard the dolphin eco-tours,all candidates must be U.S. citizens NOTE: The UnitedStates Coast Guard requires all passenger vessels to be drug free workenvironments. In order to work aboard the dolphin eco-tours, the intern will berequired to pass a pre-employment drug test and to participate in random drugtesting during the period of the research season. Application Process: Please submit coverletter, resume, and contact information for 3 references via email to:obxcdr@hotmail.com Use “Dolphin photo-id internship” in thesubject line of the email. Applicants must apply by February 15th tobe considered for this position. Applications will be reviewed in the orderreceived, and those received by January 18th will be given toppriority. Jessica Taylor Executive Director,Outer Banks Center for Dolphin Research P.O. Box 7721 Kill Devil Hills, NC27948 Obxdolphins.org

1 0

Internship Opportunities and research topics available at the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI
by Bruno Diaz Lopez 06 Jan '19

06 Jan '19

On behalf of the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI) <http://www.thebdri.com/>, I am pleased to announce that 2019 research season has just started and we are currently accepting applications for our Internship Program 2019. Our internship program aims to prepare students for a professional career in the research of marine mammals, and conservation of the marine environment. Moreover, the BDRI offers a limited number of independent studies to advanced undergraduate and graduate students (bachelor and master students). The main research topics of the 2019 BDRI research season will include marine mammal ecology, ethology, ecological modelling and bioacoustics (on dolphins, porpoises, baleen whales and otters in Atlantic waters), as well as marine birds and otters ecology. Highly motivated bachelor and master students in the fields of zoology, marine biology, veterinary and related disciplines are invited to apply for an internships at the BDRI. Lasting between one and nine months (between January and November), there’s a variety of research projects that will help you explore what you may want to do long term. With state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, participants will be trained to get involved with multiple research projects involving a combination of boat-based surveys onboard research vessels, land-based observations, laboratory work (photo-identification, GIS, bioacoustics, diet analysis, diving behaviour, video analysis, database work, etc), and strandings (response, rescue, necropsy, and data collection). We do not confer degrees but rather provide a research environment including a fully equipped and staffed laboratory, accommodation, and training in the field under the mentorship of experienced marine scientists. The BDRI offers to the students the chance to work through the many steps of research, collecting the data on the field, and analysing the data at the lab. Interns will participate in the data collection of our on-going marine megafauna research program in Galician waters (Spain) and will receive supervision from Bruno Díaz López, PhD (Director and Chief Biologist) and Séverine Methion, MSc (Principal Investigator and Marine Ecologist). The BDRI office is located in a pleasant research centre located in O Grove, Galicia (Spain). The institute and research vessels are equipped with the state-of-the-art technology, and the study area has especially good conditions for marine mammals and marine birds research. The incredible diversity of cetaceans present in these waters (up to 22 different species recorded) allows the BDRI team to have several ongoing research projects focused on the study of the ecology and behaviour of bottlenose dolphins, harbour porpoises, Risso’s dolphins, common dolphins, pilot whales, humpback whales, minke whales, sei whales, fin whales, and blue whales. The BDRI is a very international environment, and the everyday working language is English. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION There is no deadline to apply. However, approved applications are accepted on a first-come, first serve basis. Apply early! To apply, read the Internship Information Package and send the application form, a resume, cover letter, and recommendation letters (facultative) by email to: info(a)thebdri.com BDRI internships are not paid and this training experience requires a tuition fee which is used to off-set the cost of training, use of research equipment, facilities and research vessels, accommodation in an apartment with other participants, and other expenses (access to wifi, kitchen utensils, electricity, taxes, insurances, etc) and a project fee. This fee covers added supervision, tuition, and guidance, the paperwork associated, as well as the use of BDRI resources. Successful applicants will be responsible for their own transportation expenses to and from the research centre (O Grove, Galicia, Spain). Students carrying out these projects are encouraged to try for extramural or university funding to offset these costs. If the student intends to receive academic credit, he/she will be responsible for making all arrangements with their educational institutions. We look forward to your participation and a successful research experience at the BDRI and we thank you for your interest. Feel free to send us an e-mail to: info(a)thebdri.com for us to provide you further information about the program. The internships information information package can be donwloaded here: <https://www.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/internships.pdf> The thesis information document can be downloaded here: <https://www.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/thesis.pdf> A list of the thesis carried out at the BDRI can be consulted here: <https://www.thebdri.com/research/thesis.html> Some of our ex-interns shared their BDRI internship experience at: <https://youtu.be/UAuO2XasBnw> For regular updates with photos and videos about our programs and research activities feel free to visit <https://www.facebook.com/thebdri/> Scientific articles published by the BDRI in 2018 (for a full list of publications please visit: <http://www.thebdri.com/research/papers.html>) -Diaz Lopez, B. (2018) “Hot deals at sea”: responses of a top predator (Bottlenose dolphin, Tursiops truncatus) to human-induced changes in the coastal ecosystem. Behavioral Ecology. http:/doi.org/10.1093/beheco/ary162 -Methion, S. & Diaz Lopez, B. (2018) Abundance and demographic parameters of bottlenose dolphins in a highly affected coastal ecosystem. Marine and Freshwater Research https://doi.org/10.1071/MF17346 -Diaz Lopez, B & Methion, S. (2018) Does interspecific competition drive patterns of habitat use and relative density in harbour porpoises? Marine Biology (2018) 165:92. http://doi.org/10.1007/s00227-018-3345-8 Bruno Díaz López Ph.D Chief biologist and Director The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI Avenida Beiramar 192, O Grove 36980, Pontevedra, Spain www.thebdri.com 0034 684248552 Like us on Facebook. Follow us on Instagram. Mention us on Twitter. This email is confidential to the intended recipient(s) and the contents may be legally privileged or contain proprietary and private informations. It is intended solely for the person to whom it is addressed. If you are not an intended recipient, you may not review, copy or distribute this email. If received in error, please notify the sender and delete the message from your system immediately. Please note that neither the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI nor the sender accept any responsibility for any viruses and it is your responsibility to scan the email and the attachments (if any). Thank you for your cooperation.

1 0

QUALIFIED MMO/PSO & PAM operators
by Geo-Marine Consultants 05 Jan '19

05 Jan '19

Dear colleagues, We are seeking qualified, dedicated Marine Mammal Observers and PAM operators for offshore environmental monitoring. You can send your current CV to info(a)geo-mar.com Please state the following: -Expertise -Years of offshore work / regions -Qualifications and up-to-date survival training /Medical Regards GMC Office Geo-Marine Consultants *Environmental Monitoring & Reporting*

1 0

New paper: Providing ecological context to anthropogenic subsea noise
by Lilian Lieber 05 Jan '19

05 Jan '19

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to share our recent publication on assessing listening space reductions of marine mammals in relation to seasonal noise levels of two different tidal turbines installed in a dynamic tidal channel: Pine MK, Schmitt P, Culloch RM, Lieber L, Kregting LT (2019) Providing ecological context to anthropogenic subsea noise: Assessing listening space reductions of marine mammals from tidal energy devices. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 103, 49-57 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rser.2018.12.024 Abstract The deployment of tidal energy arrays is gaining momentum to provide marine renewable energy (MRE) to the global market. However, there are concerns over the potential impacts underwater noise emissions from operational devices may have on marine fauna. Auditory masking (the interference of important biological signals by anthropogenic noise) is a highly pervasive impact to marine fauna. We used a relatively new approach to evaluate the effects of noise from operational tidal energy devices on the listening space of marine mammals. Here, listening space reductions (LSR) for harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) and harbour seals (Phoca vitulina) were assessed in winter and summer for two tidal energy devices of different designs. Results demonstrated that LSR was influenced by type of turbine, species, and season. For instance, LSRs for harbour seals were in excess of 80% within 60 m, whilst for harbour porpoises they were in excess of 55% within 10 m of the devices. For both species, LSRs were highest during winter, characterised by low ambient noise conditions. These findings highlight the importance of assessing masking over seasons, as masking effects are highly influenced by ambient noise conditions. Understanding the natural variation within seasons is also particularly relevant for tidal turbine noise assessments as devices are typically situated in highly dynamic environments. Since masking effects occur at the lower level of behavioural impacts in marine mammals, assessing the spatial extent of masking as part of environmental impact assessments is recommended. The listening space formula, which is largely based on measurable environmental factors (device and ambient noise), is transferable to any MRE device, or arrays, for any species (for which an audiogram can be assumed) and therefore provides an effective method to better inform MRE pre- and post-consenting processes. https://authors.elsevier.com/c/1YIKJ4s9HvtxrUhttps://authors.elsevier.com/c… Follow the link above for free/open access until February 15th 2019. Alternatively, you can request the full article via ResearchGate. Best, Lilian Dr Lilian Lieber Research Fellow School of Natural and Built Environment Queen's University Marine Laboratory Portaferry 12-13 The Strand, Portaferry BT22 1PF Northern Ireland Webpages: Research Gate<https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Lilian_Lieber/contributions>, Google Scholar <https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=4IQLKaQAAAAJ&hl=en> Mobile: +44 (0)7837425855

1 0

Dolphin Research Intership-Volunteer in Venezuela (Sergio Cobarrubia-Russo)
by Sergio Cobarrubia 04 Jan '19

04 Jan '19

*BOOTLENOSE DOLPHIN - ATLANTIC SPOTTED DOLPHIN PROJECT RESEARCH IN VENEZUELA.* *INTERNS AND VOLUNTEER PROGRAM 2019.* *Laboratory of Ecosystems and Global Change (LEGC-IVIC) and Provita.* BACKGROUND: The Laboratory of Ecosystems and Global Change (LEGC) of the Venezuelan Institute of Scientific Research (IVIC) invites the first season of internships-volunteering (2019) in the study of coastal dolphins. LEGC is a scientific team that among its research lines on the fauna of coastal and riparian ecosystems, it has established the first one on aquatic mammals in Venezuela. On the other hand, Provita is an important NGO that contributes to the research and conservation of species in Venezuela. This research will begin with a project focused on sociobiology (social structure, social networks and bioacoustics) of resident groups of the coastal bottlenose dolphin (*Tursiops truncatus*) and the Atlantic spotted dolphin (*Stenella frontalis*) in the central coast of Venezuela. This, after an experience of 5 years in that locality studying ecological aspects of *T. truncatus *(https://doi.org/10.1007/s13364-018-0401-1). The coast of Aragua not only houses these species, but also the Bryde's whale (*Balaenoptera edeni*), the common dolphin (*Delphinus*sp.) and the spinner dolphin (*Stenella longirostris*). Of which basic information is collected too. LEGC interns and volunteers are young, hard-working who are willing to contribute to research by learning as they experience fieldwork in teams, field techniques for collecting and processing data and methodologies. All team members and interns share academic space, housing in the Institute, housework in the study area, knowledge and experience in a friendly and multicultural environment. The internship consists of two weeks. The first week of theoretical-practical preparation (24 theoretical hours and 16 practicals hours) at the IVIC Ecology Center. The second week of five field surveys and data management (40 h) on the Aragua coast. The volunteering consist of one week of field surveys. WHERE: Theory: LEGC, Center of Ecology (IVIC) Miranda State, Caracas (10° 23' N 66° 58' W, http://www.ivic.gob.ve/es/) Practice: Bahía de Cata, western coast of the (rain forest) National Park Henry Pittier, Aragua state (central coast of Venezuela) 150 km from Caracas (DC) (10° 29' N 67° 44' W). PROGRAM: Interns (Two weeks) – Volunteers (One or two weeks, depends on the interest of the volunteer). 1st WEEK (LEGC-Ecology Center, 40 hours. For Interns). 2nd WEEK (Bahía de Cata-Provita, 40 hours. For Interns and Volunteers). The field surveys will be carried out in a fishing vessel of 9 m in length by 2 of beam. The field work will depend on the climatic conditions, however, the Aragua coast offers few climatic inconveniences throughout the year. There will be 5 morning of field surveys in the week, after each survey is lunch, rest and then proceed to download the data of sightings and then interpret them preliminarily and discuss them. In the field surveys, it will be implemented: - The identification and recognition of the elements of the marine landscape and the method of tracking and detection of cetaceans. - Ethical navigation mode before cetaceans for study. - The basic data collection / sighting. - Use of GPS. - Use of the camera. - Counting of total individuals and by age group. - Identification of the behavioral states that configure group behavior and its recording. - Use of the hydrophone. In the afternoon the information of the sightings will be downloaded: - Sighting forms. - Latitude and longitude. - Photographs and their selection. - Voice recordings (behavior). - Recordings of vocalizations. The data obtained in the sea will be processed and discuted. In parallel, the Interns should write a proposal for the study of coastal cetaceans. PRACTICAL FEES: Although accommodation and food (lunch and dinner) are covered in the first week for Interns, the field surveys requires a monetary contribution that will be used to exclusively compensate the logistics costs in the study area. The cost is below half average of interships and volunteering since the dollar or euro are highly overvalued. For more information, please contact: sergio.cobarrubia(a)gmail.com. WHEN: During the year there will be 6 internships-volunteering (February, April, June, August, October, December). For Interns, two last weeks of the months scheduled. For Interns, last week of the scheduled months. Only in December will it be for the firs two weeks. VACANTS: 4 people / internship or volunteerng. Included in the rate is: - Accommodation in the Bahía de Cata (Aragua). - Transportation Simón Bolívar International Airport-IVIC / IVIC-Bahía de Cata. - Meals in Bahía de Cata (breakfast, lunch and dinner) - Field work in the sea. Not included in the rate is: - Meals in restaurants - Free time activities - Personal insurance (all participants must have health and / or travel insurance) - Personal expenses. INTEREST IS EXPECTED: - Being over 18 years - Iterns: Preference will be given to undergraduate students and professional students (biology, marine biology, environmental, conservation and plus). - Volunteer: No preferences. - Have a mature attitude towards the investigation of marine mammals and environment - Be autonomous and flexible - To be able to live and work in an international team and mainly outdoors in the sea - Speak Spanish, English, Portuguese or Italian. ACADEMIC CREDITS: The LEGC will certify the work performed by intern or volunteer through a diploma with the recognition of the hours (academic-practical) worked. APPLICATION AND QUESTIONS: Applicants must write to sergio.cobarrubia(a)gmail.com with the subject "DOLPHINS PROJECT_Name". You will be sent a confirmation email with all the details about the study area and the species present, the practices and requesting your CV resume, motivation letter (small statement about what your expectations are and why you want to work with LEGC) and the internship month of your choice. Applications will be accepted throughout the year, however, early application is recommended due to limited vacancies -- *Sergio Enrique Cobarrubia Russo* Laboratorio de Ecosistemas y Cambio Global Centro de Ecología Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Científicas Venezuela.

1 0

Caribbean Network for Marine Mammals Conservation
by BERNUS Jeffrey 04 Jan '19

04 Jan '19

Dear Colleagues, I am pleased to present you the CARIMAM project, held by the AGOA Sanctuary : The main objective of this project is to develop a network of M arine P rotected A reas dedicated to the conservation of marine mammals in the Greater Caribbean and beyond. This network will aim at strengthening managerial skills and developing common tools for management and evaluation purposes. We completed our first meeting in October 2018 with participants from over 14 islands. We now look forward to reach every organization concerned by marine mammals conservation in the Caribbean to extend this network. If you are working in this area and want to be part of this network, we invite you to complete this survey : (Researchers, MPA Manager s , other organi z ations...). [ https://framaforms.org/carimam-1542985847 | https://framaforms.org/carimam-1542985847 ] The survey take s a few minutes but it will e nsure you to be contacted to attend the next meetings, help everyone to know the actions taken in every island and will increase the possibilities of integrating your territory into the next scientific actions. Please feel free to send me an email if you have any question. Best wishes from all the team of the AGOA S anctuary ! Cheers, Jeffrey Bernus Scientific coordinator - CARIMAM project Sanctuaire Agoa - Agence Française pour la Biodiversité jeffrey.bernus(a)afbiodiversite.fr

1 0

Passive Acoustic Monitoring Level 2 course
by Stephanie Barnicoat 04 Jan '19

04 Jan '19

Dear Colleagues Seiche Training are launching our PAM Level 2 course on the 4th to 7th Feb 2019, Devon, UK. This will be a new three and a half day course that builds on Seiche’ s PAM Level 1 course to develop operators’ skills for advanced PAMGuard configuration and troubleshooting hardware and software, as well as exploring more methods and settings for marine mammal identification. The course finishes with a practical session on analysing data using various software programmes, such as PAMGuard Viewer and Raven Lite. Our course is aimed at delegates with PAM experience and have completed PAM Level 1. A scientific background is preferred, ideally in biology and marine sciences. The skills developed on the course can be applied to all PAM equipment currently in the marketplace. Delegates will have a mix of interactive sessions, lectures and hands-on access to equipment. If you require further information or wish to book, please contact info(a)seichetraining.com<mailto:info@seichetraining.com> [Seiche Ltd]<http://www.seiche.com> Stephanie Barnicoat Project Officer Seiche Ltd Bradworthy Industrial Estate, Langdon Road, Bradworthy, Holsworthy, Devon, EX22 7SF, United Kingdom <https://www.google.com/maps/place/Bradworthy+Industrial+Estate,+Langdon+Roa…> T: +44(0)1409 404050<tel:+44(0)1409%20404050> E: s.barnicoat(a)seiche.com<mailto:s.barnicoat@seiche.com> W: www.seiche.com<http://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.

1 1

LAST CALL FOR APPLICATIONS - Research Assistant and Intern Coordinator Opportunity - Sea Watch Foundation
by Chiara Giulia 04 Jan '19

04 Jan '19

The Sea Watch Foundation <http://www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk/>, a non-profit organisation dedicated to marine research, conservation, and public education is seeking applications for the following: ** *RESEARCH ASSISTANT/INTERN COORDINATOR IN CARDIGAN BAY 2019* ** This position is responsible for assisting the Monitoring Officer in the running of the /“Cardigan Bay Monitoring Project”/ and coordinating the project interns. The project is based in New Quay, Ceredigion, West Wales, and works towards delivering on the conservation management of the bottlenose dolphin, harbour porpoise and grey seal populations of Cardigan Bay, monitoring their abundance, distribution, reproductive success and population structure using a combination of line-transect, photo-identification, land-based and acoustic surveys. *Start Date: April 1^st , 2019 End Date: October 27^th , 2019* *_Responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:_* * Coordination between the Monitoring Officer, Sightings Officer and project interns – in charge of the intern shared house and the intern weekly office rota. * Assisting the Monitoring Officer & Sightings Officer in training interns and other volunteers in land- and boat-based surveys, photo ID studies, database entry, and more. * Assisting the Monitoring Officer in all phases of the research. * Assisting the Sightings Officer with maintenance of the national sightings network. * Optional opportunity to undertake a personal research project supervised by the Monitoring Officer. Research topic will be chosen according to Sea Watch Foundation requirements and applicant’s interests. *_Requirements:_* The successful applicant is expected to have completed a BSc degree (or higher) in biology, marine biology, zoology, chemistry, or related field and able to demonstrate previous experience in marine mammal research. A strong interest and knowledge of British cetaceans and experience are beneficial. The applicant should ideally have some experience using DSLR cameras. Practical experience of photo-identification (both photography and matching) is desirable. Experience with other equipment regularly used by Sea Watch Foundation such as hydrophone, theodolite, digiscope and aerial camera drone is advantageous. The applicant must be proficient with database and word processing software and be willing to learn new software applications. Specific experience in use of Access and GIS would be advantageous. Knowledge of other relevant software such as PAMGuard or Raven is useful but not essential. The preferred candidate should have a proven track record as a team player since the project will involve working closely with other researchers but must also be able to supervise small groups of people given that they will be coordinating a team of at least 8 interns. The Research Assistant and interns live and work together daily which requires a high degree of diplomacy and interpersonal skills to maintain relationships and team morale. Previous experience working successfully in similar roles is essential. Applicants should be aware that they will be assisting in running ongoing, established research projects that routinely inform government agencies on the status of cetaceans in the UK and accordingly are expected to take the internship seriously and prioritise it over extra-curricular activities. Working in a small NGO environment in a tight knit team can be a challenging experience and requires a high degree of flexibility, tolerance and a positive attitude. Applicants must be self-motivated, with the drive and determination to work independently and responsibly without direct supervision. The work load is varied and therefore a high degree of organisation, attention to detail and ability to prioritise are essential. If a personal research project is undertaken, this brings the opportunity to submit work for scientific publication, and for presentation at the European Cetacean Society Conference. However, this is a challenging position and it is up to the Research Assistant to pursue project work while not prioritising it over existing tasks. The Research Assistant is expected to work 6 days a week with office hours running from 9AM to 6PM with an hour lunch break. Field work regularly falls outside of office hours, particularly land-based watches which take place throughout the day in two hours shifts from 7AM to 9PM. Line transect surveys are all day surveys and will typically start in the early morning hours and run for at least 8 hours. The Research Assistant is also entitled to one week’s holiday during the season, the dates of which should be agreed upon at the start of placement if possible. *This position is unpaid but (shared) accommodation will be provided in the intern house free of charge. * ** The Research Assistant will be responsible for their own travel expenses to New Quay for the 2019 field season. Due to the touristic background of New Quay, part-time paid evening work is generally easy to find if required by the applicant. There are a number of external organisations that may offer grants to partially cover living expenses (see below). International applications are welcome, but it is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure visa requirements are met and the chosen visa option should be highlighted in the application form. *To apply:* Please send your CV and application form, with a cover letter and contact details of two referees, reporting any relevant experience you have, to Katrin Lohrengel- _*katrin.lohrengel(a)seawatchfoundation.org.uk*_ *Deadline: 11th January 2019*. Please specify RESEARCH ASSISTANT/INTERN COORDINATOR in your subject title. Successful applicants will be notified of the outcomes by 10^th February 2019. ** *Potential funding sources to support your internship with Sea Watch * ** SWF is aware that undertaking unpaid work can be challenging. However, as a relatively small charity it is currently not able to offer compensation for internships. However, there are some outside funding bodies that may be able to help you fund your internship. If you are accepted for an internship, we are happy to provide letters to support your funding application. If you are a current student or recent graduate it is worth checking whether your university offers financial support for students undertaking field work related to their degree subject. This site offers a comprehensive list of potential grants to apply for: Gap Year Funding list https://www.originalvolunteers.co.uk/volunteer-abroad-grants-gap-year-fundi… *About the Sea Watch Foundation* The Sea Watch Foundation is a national marine environmental research charity that aims to achieve better conservation of whales and dolphins in the seas around Britain and Ireland, by involving the public in scientific monitoring of populations and the threats they face. It is the longest-running research charity in UK focusing upon cetaceans around the British Isles, and maintains a national sightings database, the largest in Europe. It works closely with all the UK statutory conservation agencies, and advises UK government, the UNEP Regional intergovernmental Conservation Agreement - ASCOBANS, the European Commission, as well as the major conservation charities and marine industries operating in the UK. At Sea Watch Wales, we are dedicated to raising awareness, knowledge and conservation of the marine wildlife of the region. Our work is funded by the Countryside Council for Wales, Defra, the Joint Nature Conservation Committee, and Environment Wales; and we work closely with the local management authority, Ceredigion County Council. Internships with Sea Watch have frequently led to established posts in national and international research and conservation bodies, as well as providing a stepping stone for students to undertake doctoral studies in marine mammal science. *Public awareness* **We aim to raise awareness and understanding of the importance of the local marine wildlife and the habitats supporting them, to encourage respect and conservation of the area and its wildlife for future generations. We also run training courses for the public in cetacean identification and survey methods. A list of recent of recent awareness and education achievements is given below: * Sea Watch Director, Peter Evans, received the European Cetacean Society Conservation Award, 2012 * Sea Watch Foundation was recipient of the UNEP/ASCOBANS “Outreach and Education Award”, 2009 * Sea Watch Foundation was voted best UK animal adoption scheme by BBC Wildlife, December 2008 *Research* The purpose of our research here is to monitor the marine mammal populations inhabiting Cardigan Bay, so as to gain information to aid the conservation and long-term well being of these animals and the local marine environment. This is achieved by conducting various projects including: * Estimating the abundance and distribution of bottlenose dolphins, harbour porpoises and grey seals within Cardigan Bay using distance sampling and opportunistic boat surveys * Maintaining and updating a catalogue of photographically identified bottlenose dolphins in Wales in order to study their abundance, social structure, movements and life histories. -- Dr Chiara Giulia Bertulli Sightings Officer Sea Watch Foundation +44 (0) 1545 561227 www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk ResearchGate www.researchgate.net/profile/Chiara_Bertulli/contributions

1 0

LAST CALL FOR APPLICATIONS - Marine Mammal Monitoring Project Volunteer Internship Opportunities - Sea Watch Foundation
by Chiara Giulia 04 Jan '19

04 Jan '19

The Sea Watch Foundation <http://www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk/>, a non-profit organisation dedicated to marine research, conservation, and public education is seeking applications for the following: ** *Sea Watch Foundation Research Internship* Interns are invited to assist the Sea Watch Foundation (SWF) with the running of the “Cardigan Bay Monitoring Project”. The project is based in New Quay, West Wales, and supports the conservation management of the bottlenose dolphin, harbour porpoise and grey seal populations of Cardigan Bay, monitoring their abundance, distribution, reproductive success and population structure using a combination of vessel-based and land-based surveys. SWF has been monitoring these populations on behalf of the Welsh government (through funding provided by Natural Resources Wales) for over a decade. Cardigan Bay contains Britain’s largest coastal population of bottlenose dolphins, for which two Special Areas of Conservation have been established under the EU Habitats Directive. Interns will help the Cardigan Bay Monitoring Officer and the Sightings Officer by taking part in the following tasks: •Land-based surveys •Boat-based surveys •Photo-identification matching •Data entry •Raising public awareness •Education initiatives and events •Assisting with and participation in training courses and other needs of the charity. In addition to these tasks, we have some specialist equipment, two hydrophones and a drone, to opportunistically collect acoustic and aerial data during boat-based surveys. Sea Watch have also been contributing to a project to collect dolphin blow samples for population genetics and microbiome analyses. Interns interested in these subjects may also have the opportunity to assist in data collection for these projects. Interns are required from early April until the end of October 2019. The research season is split into four separate periods, each lasting 7 weeks. The research periods for the 2019 season are: Period 1: April 8 - May 26 Period 2: May 27 - July 14 Period 3: July 15 - September 1 Period 4:September 2 - October 20 Interns are expected to arrive on the first day of their chosen period and depart on the first day of the next period. Start and end dates are not flexible. Preference will be given to those applying for more than one period. Interns will be based in New Quay, Ceredigion, West Wales. Accommodation is provided by a private landlord through rental of a house that interns share at a rate of around £73 per person per week. Rooms are shared between two or three people, with a total of nine people in the house at any given time. Interns are responsible for their own travel, accommodation and living expenses, but it is generally quite easy to obtain part-time paid work in the area if required. Important skills/qualifications Essential: •an ability to work independently in a meticulous and reliable manner •strong commitment to volunteering work •willingness to work long hours outdoors in often changeable Welsh weather •good IT skills (Office package) •an ability to get on well with others in a small team and in shared accommodation • Desirable: •a strong interest and knowledge of British cetaceans •a background in marine biology/environmental science or similar •prior experience in boat-based survey work •good verbal and written communication skills and in public speaking •experience in interacting with the public All interns will be trained in cetacean observation and identification, in boat survey protocols, and photo-identification of bottlenose dolphins. Normal office hours are from 10:00 to 17:00 hrs but field work regularly falls outside these hours, particularly land-based watches which take place throughout the day in two hour shifts from 07:00 to 21:00. Interns will sometimes be scheduled onto ‘early’ and ‘late’ shifts to accommodate these. Line transect surveys are all day surveys and will typically start in the early morning hours and run for at least 8 hours. Prospective interns should be aware that they will be contributing to ongoing, established research projects that routinely inform government agencies on the status of cetaceans in the UK, and accordingly are expected to take the internship seriously and prioritise it over extra-curricular activities. Working in a small NGO environment in a tight knit team can be a challenging experience and requires a high degree of flexibility, tolerance and a positive attitude. After initial training, interns will often be expected to work in the absence of direct supervision so the ability to work independently and maintain a positive, proactive outlook is essential. Internships with Sea Watch have frequently led to established posts in national and international research and conservation bodies, as well as providing a stepping stone for students to undertake doctoral studies in marine mammal science. International applications are welcome, but it is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure visa requirements are met and we ask applicants to highlight their chosen visa option in their application. ** *Potential funding sources to support your internship with Sea Watch* SWF is aware that undertaking unpaid work can be challenging, however, as a small charity we are currently not able to offer compensation for internships. There are some outside funding bodies that may be able to help you fund your internship. If you are accepted for an internship, we are happy to provide letters to support your funding application. If you are a current student or recent graduate it is worth checking whether your university offers financial support for students undertaking field work related to their degree subject. This site offers a comprehensive list of potential grants to apply for: https://www.originalvolunteers.co.uk/volunteer-abroad-grants-gap-year-fundi… If you are interested in this position, please contact Katrin on _*katrin.lohrengel(a)seawatchfoundation.org.uk*_ with a completed application form and CV. -- Dr Chiara Giulia Bertulli Sightings Officer Sea Watch Foundation +44 (0) 1545 561227 www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk ResearchGate www.researchgate.net/profile/Chiara_Bertulli/contributions

1 0

**Reminder - Submissions of candidate IMMA areas of interest for the Western Indian Ocean and Arabian Seas region**
by MMPATF IMMA 04 Jan '19

04 Jan '19

**Reminder - Submissions of candidate IMMA areas of interest for the Western Indian Ocean and Arabian Seas region** Dear Subscribers, The IUCN MMPATF has opened a public call for submissions of Important Marine Mammal Area (IMMA) areas of interest in the Western Indian Ocean and Arabian Seas region. The deadline for all submissions is by midnight Sunday February 24th, 2019. The IMMA is a global initiative developed by the IUCN Joint SSC/WCPA Marine Mammal Protected Areas Task Force (IUCN MMPATF). The aim of IMMA classification is to identify and delineate discrete areas of habitat throughout the world's seas and oceans, important for one or more species of marine mammal, that have the potential to be delineated and managed for conservation. This will require the application of a standardized process for the collation and categorization of evidence, using a consistent protocol and agreed methodology. The Mediterranean Sea, Pacific Islands, North East Indian Ocean & South East Asian Seas, and Extended Southern Ocean regions have been sequentially assessed across 2016-2018. The results of these workshops can be accessed via the dedicated IMMA e-Atlas facility www.marinemammalhabitat.org/imma-eatlas The next region to be assessed by invited experts will be held in Salalah, Oman, March 2019, at a specially convened regional IMMA workshop for the Western Indian Ocean and Arabian Seas region. To assist those participating experts to investigate where IMMAs may be located the IUCN MMPATF would like to invite interested parties to submit proposals using the IMMA standard web platform, which can be accessed through the following link - https://goo.gl/V3afNz - please be advised that you can only submit one proposal per survey taken. However, should you wish to submit more than one proposal, please complete this survey multiple times using the same link provided. All submissions will be collated and presented to participating experts at the Western Indian Ocean and Arabian Seas regional IMMA workshop in March 2019. The IUCN MMPATF would like to thank you for your interest in the IMMA initiative. Further information about IMMAs can be found at the Task Force homepage (www.marinemammalhabitat.org) and on the Task Force IMMA Facebook page (tinyurl.com/zr9rvf4) For any further questions or assistance please contact the IUCN-MMPATF at immacoordinator<at>gmail.com Dr Michael J. Tetley - IMMA Programme Coordinator IUCN Joint SSC/WCPA Marine Mammal Protected Areas Task Force

1 0