March 2019 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Potential welfare impacts of chase and capture on small cetaceans
by Courtney Vail 06 Mar '19

06 Mar '19

Dear all, My co-authors and I are pleased to share our recent publication with you: Vail, C. S., Reiss, D., Brakes, P., & Butterworth, A. (2019). Potential welfare impacts of chase and capture of small cetaceans during drive hunts in Japan. The Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science, February 26, 2019. DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2019.1574576 The paper presents scientific data detailing the physiological, behavioral, and socio-ecological impacts of chase, herding and capture of small cetaceans. In the drive hunts in Taiji, Japan these methods are employed during the acquisition of live dolphins for some international marine parks and aquaria. The paper raises substantial welfare and conservation concerns regarding the methods used for the acquisition of live dolphins from the wild for marine parks and contends that the methods used are inherently inhumane and therefore should be discontinued. A B S T R A C T Drive hunts are a method to herd, capture and kill small cetaceans in coastal waters of some countries including Japan and the Faroe Islands. In Japan, these methods are often associated with the acquisition of live dolphins for international marine parks and aquaria. During the hunts, dolphins are herded by a flotilla of fishing vessels and loud underwater noise created by fishermen banging hammers on metal poles. The prolonged and strenuous chase and use of sound barriers to herd, capture, and restrain the dolphins can result in acute stress and injury. The authors review physiological and behavioral data pertaining to chase, encirclement, and live capture of dolphins and draw comparisons between chase and capture data for marine and terrestrial species. This analysis raises substantial welfare concerns associated with the hunts and acquisition of dolphins from such capture operations. The authors assert that this data detailing the negative impacts of chase, herding and handling (capture) of small cetaceans renders these hunts inherently inhumane and should inform policy relating to the collection and management of dolphins in the wild. The article is available for download here (open access until May 31, 2019): https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10888705.2019.1574576 Additional footage illustrating aspects of the hunts, obtained and provided by DolphinProject.com in partnership with Life Investigation Agency (LIA), can be found at the following link: https://vimeo.com/320425403 For any inquiries, please contact: courtney(a)lightkeepersfoundation.com<mailto:courtney@lightkeepersfoundation.com> or dlr28(a)columbia.edu<mailto:dlr28@columbia.edu> Sincerely, Courtney, Diana, Philippa and Andy

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Summer Volunteer Opportunities with Cetus’ Robson Bight Warden Program!
by Marie Fournier 05 Mar '19

05 Mar '19

Summer Volunteer Opportunities with Cetus’ Robson Bight Warden Program! Cetus is a non-profit, marine conservation society, which operates in the waters around Victoria and Alert Bay, British Columbia, Canada. Since 2005 we have worked to reduce disturbances to marine mammals on the British Columbia coast and promote respect for our marine environment through on-the-water and land-based education, outreach and direct monitoring activities. The Robson Bight Marine Warden Program operates in Johnstone Strait, in the waters around the Robson Bight (Michael Bigg) Ecological Reserve. The ecological reserve is designated for the protection of critical habitat of the Northern resident killer whales. This is a unique area where the whales often come to rub their bodies along the underwater beaches. Our marine wardens monitor vessels and marine mammal populations, and educate boaters and kayakers about the reserve and their impacts around it. The Robson Bight Marine Warden Program is comprised of a water based monitoring and educational component and a land based monitoring station called Eagle Eye, situated on a cliff opposite the ecological reserve. *Cetus is looking for enthusiastic and hard working individuals to fill the Robson Bight Marine Warden Program Summer Volunteer positions:* Volunteer positions will be based out of a rustic field camp in Boat Bay on West Cracroft Island located near Alert Bay, British Columbia, Canada. Positions will be offered between June 27th and September 6th 2019. We require a minimum 3-week commitment. Preference will be given to those who are able to stay for the full 11 weeks. Successful applicants will have the opportunity to be involved with a variety of possible tasks ranging from community outreach and education to marine mammal response and data collection. Our programs focus on protecting British Columbia’s marine mammal populations and encouraging others to do the same. Interns may also have the opportunity to spend time on our monitoring vessels in which case they will participate in data collection, data entry and on-the-water boater education. *Responsibilities include: * - Educating boaters, kayakers, park visitors, and members of the public about the marine mammal viewing guidelines, marine species at risk, the conservation issues they face and the boundaries of the Robson Bight (Michael Bigg) Ecological Reserve - Collecting and entering data on marine mammals and vessel activity - Public interpretation in the form of dock talks and participation in community events - Potentially helping to respond to injured, sick or dead marine mammals in support of the BC Marine Mammal Response Network - Observing and recording cetaceans in support of the BC Cetacean Sightings Network - Assisting with general administrative duties - Camp duties, which includes cooking, cleaning, general maintenance and heavy lifting *What skills and experience will volunteers gain?: * - Experience educating the public on important conservation issues - Experience with field data collection and entry - Interpretive skills and techniques - Potential for experience in marine mammal response - Experience with fundraising and community outreach - Experience working with Microsoft Access *Essential Requirements: * - Fluent spoken English - Interest in marine wildlife and conservation - Flexibility - Ability to work long hours, outdoors, in all weather conditions - The ability to live & work comfortably in a remote coastal wilderness camp setting with staff & volunteers - The physical ability to carry 40lbs of gear to and from the vessel to base camps (this varies from across the street to down a rocky shoreline). In addition to this volunteers are required to hike, 3km (each way), from the base camp to the observation site on alternate days, which takes approximately 1 hour (one way) *Additional Information: *These positions are unpaid and carry a cost to the interns of $125/ week to cover accommodations, extra fuel and dinners (volunteers will be responsible for their own breakfasts and lunches). Warden volunteers will need to bring their own tent and sleeping bag. Tent pads and tarps will be provided as will camp cooking equipment etc. *How to apply: *Please forward your cover letter, resume and two references via *email* by *April 1st, 2019*. Please indicate your availability. Only successful applicants will be contacted. *Contact:* Marie Fournier, Cetus Research & Conservation Society, Email: robsonbight(a)cetussociety.org For more information please visit our website www.ProtectOurWhales.com

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Research assistant position in Maryland USA
by Bailey, Helen 05 Mar '19

05 Mar '19

The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES), Chesapeake Biological Laboratory (CBL), is accepting applications for a Laboratory Research Assistant to assist with a passive acoustic monitoring study for marine mammals offshore of Maryland. This position is an hourly contractual position for 6 months with the possibility of extension dependent upon successful performance and funding availability ( https://www.umces.edu/content/laboratory-research-assistant-contractual) Duties will include deployment and recovery of acoustic equipment at sea, and processing and analysis of acoustic data. The project involves the use of C-PODs, SM3M, Soundtrap and Loggerhead Instruments hydrophones. Experience with these devices, or similar types, will be preferable. Applicants should be familiar with Excel and have experience with ambient and marine mammal sound analysis, including software such as PAMGUARD and Raven. Experience with bioacoustics, dolphin whistle analysis, and calculating ambient noise levels is desirable. The ability to format and analyze data in the R software package and perform GIS mapping is also preferable. Minimum requirement is a B.S. degree with more than 2 years research experience, which should include marine mammal acoustics. Salary dependent upon qualifications and experience. Anticipated start date is 13 May 2019. To apply, please send a cover letter, CV, and the names and contact information of three references (including email and phone) in a *single PDF file* to: cbl-hr(a)umces.edu. Resumes received by 29 March 2019 will receive consideration. For more information about the position, please contact Dr. Helen Bailey (hbailey(a)umces.edu) ------------------------------------------- Dr. Helen Bailey Research Associate Professor UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND CENTER FOR ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Chesapeake Biological Laboratory P.O. Box 38 Solomons, MD 20688 Tel: (1) 410-326-7284 Website: http://www.umces.edu/helen-bailey -------------------------------------------

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BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIP IN ITALY
by Elena Fontanesi - elena.fontanesi2＠studio.unibo.it 05 Mar '19

05 Mar '19

RESEARCH INTERNSHIP SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2019 BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIP IN ITALY -last spots available! The dolphin research project “Delfini del Ponente” http://delfinidelponente.costabalenae.it/ 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 a 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: We have still some spots available in MAY, JUNE, JULY, AUGUST, SEPTEMBER and OCTOBER Minimum required: 30 days Number of interns per month: 2 Programme: Interns are invited to assist the biologists of Costa Balenae in different activities: • Boat-based surveys (10-12 per month) • Collect data on species, group size, interaction with boats.. • Take pictures for photo-identification • Photo-id matching/classwork • Data entry • Opportunistic surveys • Land-based surveys The internship is a great opportunity for anyone keen to start a career in cetacean research or simply willing to acquire fieldwork and data processing skills. This experience will give you the chance to work in a the Pelagos Sanctuary and enjoy its unique marine biodiversity as well as traveling and exploring the beautiful Liguria region. Thanks to this internship you will support cetacean research and conservation in one of the most crowded and busy areas of the Mediterranean Sea. 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. During fieldwork, participants will gain first-hand experience in collecting data on cetaceans, seabirds and other marine fauna. Interns will improve their 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. Interns will be busy 5 days a week, 6-8 hours/day (depending on fieldwork or labwork). During their free time, interns will have the opportunity to experience all sorts of activities: swimming, diving, hiking, exploring historical sites, visit museums, sailing. Skills/qualification: • Minimum age of 18 • Prior experience in cetaceans or boat-based surveys is not required, but preferred • Degree or on-going studies in biology, natural science, veterinary or similar (preferred) • Strong motivation and interest in cetaceans and research • Speak, read and write in fluent English • Be adaptable as fieldwork is weather dependent • Be prepared to spend many hours on a small zodiac (5-6 m) and under the sun • 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) Internship fee Delfini del Ponente is a self-funded research project, so participation in this programme requires a tuition fee. Fee includes the accommodation in an apartment in Imperia, tuition and all associated field costs during the internship period (use of research vessel, training, use of equipment, field trips). Transportation expenses to and from Imperia (Italy), own insurances, and food costs during the stay are not included in the fee. Information about Costa Balenae Costa Balenae is a cooperative organization founded by a group of biologists and naturalists with twenty years of experience in the fields of scientific research, environmental education, territorial development, and sustainable tourism. The passion for nature, its conservation and the development of commercial tourism activities that make knowledge, awareness and sustainability a point of strong entrepreneurial imprinting are the main characteristics of the cooperative. How to apply: Send your CV with a letter of interest (please indicate the preferred period, date of arriving and departure) to info(a)costabalenae.it addressed to Elena Fontanesi and Davide Ascheri no longer than the 20th of MARCH. Successful applicants could be contacted for a skype interview. For any further enquiry and detail, please send an email to info(a)costabalenae.it Davide Ascheri and Elena Fontanesi Biologist - Costa Balenae Whale and Nature Watching info(a)costabalenae.it

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New publication on PFAAs in Hawaiian cetaceans and biomarkers of exposure
by Adam Kurtz 04 Mar '19

04 Mar '19

Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to announce our new publication in Environmental Science & Technology regarding PFAA concentrations and biomarkers of exposure in Hawaiian cetaceans: Kurtz, A. E.; Reiner, J. L.; West, K. L.; and Jensen, B. A. Perfluorinated Alkyl Acids in Hawaiian Cetaceans and Potential Biomarkers of Effect: Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Alpha and Cytochrome P450 4A. Environ. Sci. Technol. 2019. DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.8b05619 Abstract:Perfluorinated alkyl acids (PFAAs) are persistent in marine biota and are toxic to many species, including marine mammals. We measured the concentrations of 15 PFAAs in liver and kidney samples of 16 species of stranded cetaceans from Hawai‘i and other tropical North Pacific regions utilizing high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Eleven PFAAs in liver and nine PFAAs in kidney were detected, including substantial perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) and perfluoroundecanoic acid PFUnA). Regression models indicated that phylogenetic family and age class significantly influenced concentrations of certain PFAAs. PFAAs can activate transcription factor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα), which induces transcription of cytochrome P450 4A (CYP4A). Relative expression of PPARα and CYP4A mRNA was quantified using real-time PCR (qPCR) and CYP4A protein expression, using Western blot and then compared to PFAA concentrations in liver and kidney. Concentrations of four PFAA congeners, summation of perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (ΣPFCAs), and ΣPFAAs correlated significantly with PPARα mRNA expression and CYP4A protein expression in kidney, suggesting either may be biomarkers of PFAA exposure in cetaceans. This is the first study to quantify PFAAs in marine mammals from this region and the first observation of a direct relationship between PFAA exposure and PPARα and CYP4A expression in cetaceans. The article can be found online at: https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.8b05619 Best wishes, Adam Kurtz and co-authors

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2nd World Cetacean Conference - Joint SMM and ECS conference in Barcelona, Dec 2019 - "Arts" as a tool for communicating marine mammal science
by Volker Smit 04 Mar '19

04 Mar '19

Dear MARMAMers! With the occasion of the 2^nd World Marine Mammal Conference hosted by the European Cetacean Society (ECS) and the Society for Marine Mammalogy (SMM) that will take place in Barcelona (Spain) in December 2019, it is our intention to continue the series of workshops we have been organizing along with the ECS conferences since 2013. Our proposal for the 7^th workshop on “Communicating Marine Mammal Science to the General Public” will be centered on “Arts as a tool for communication”. In our definition "Arts" includes all forms of expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, including the various branches of creativity such as painting, music, literature and dance. Considering the vast audience and researchers the conference itself will hosts, at this stage it is our aim to integrate people or groups interested in providing feedback on their own experience and contribution on the issue in the proposal/program of the workshop itself, before submitting it. Whoever finds this topic of interest and would like to share their experience to provide useful tools for communication and fundraising to other research groups and form a network of information on the matter is strongly invited to get in touch. Please mail to either: Dr. Luigi Bundone: luigibundone(a)tiscali.it or Volker Smit: smit(a)m-e-e-r.de Best regards, Volker Smit -- Volker Smit 2.Vorsitzender - vice-president T +49 151 65123475 smit(a)m-e-e-r.de www.m-e-e-r.org

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Certificate of Beginning Marine Mammalogy at Cal State
by Jenifer Zeligs 04 Mar '19

04 Mar '19

Develop a Career Working with Animals California State University Monterey Bay (CSUMB) and Moss Landing Marine Laboratories http://slewths.mlml.calstate.edu/ offer a *one-week intensive live summer class* open to anyone interested in pursuing careers in the marine mammal field. In addition*, hands-on internships* for people of all ages and levels of experience are also available at the lab working with marine mammals. A second course on animal training is also available on-demand online. The successful completion of both courses and a five-day internship will earn a *Certificate of Completion in Beginning Marine Mammalogy*. The classes' instructor, Dr. Jenifer Zeligs has over 30 years of terrestrial and aquatic animal training experience, across diverse disciplines including research, public display, and studio and film work. For further information on class content see below and please contact: jzeligs(a)mlml.calstate.edu <jhurley(a)mlml.calstate.edu>. *CSUMB Working with Marine Mammals Live Course Enrollment Details:* Enrollment for Bio 347 is class limited to 16. Summer registration for open enrollment begins April 8, 2019. The classes are open for enrollment to any high school graduate regardless of age and there are no prerequisites, however no transportation or housing is included in the enrollment price. International students are welcome. WORKING WITH MARINE MAMMALS: Bio 347 (July 15- 21, 2019) CRN 30425: This 3 credit university course is designed to assist people who are interested in developing a career in marine mammalogy. It will provide practical information about marine mammals and working with them, drawing on the rich background of marine mammal work in the Monterey Bay area. The course will include live experiences with the marine mammals at Moss Landing Marine Labs. This class will instruct students in captive marine mammal husbandry (care and maintenance), training, basic physiology, an overview of common research topics and techniques, as well as public display, education, and current issues in marine mammalogy. Students will intern at least one day at the lab assisting in the care of research-trained California sea lions. They will also gain experience in developing a resume, job interviews, and public presentations. Tuition: $840 + $39 campus fee per semester is payable to CSUMB-EE per class. An additional $50 lab fee is payable to MLML on the first day of class. For registration, enrollment and other logistical information please contact Cal State Monterey Bay, http://csumb.edu/summer or call them at (831)582-4500 *Housing and Internships**:* For help with housing and to schedule an internship please contact sskrovan(a)mlml.calstate.edu <sskrvoan(a)mlml.calstate.edu>. Bio 347 will be taught at Moss Landing Marine Labs in Moss Landing, CA. *Animal Training 101- Online on demand * UNLOCK THE SECRET SCIENCE OF BEHAVIOR with DR. JENIFER ZELIGS! Discover how to interpret behavior using a scientific approach melded with the *art* of training. These techniques can be used with any species! Extensive videos and techniques demonstrated with dozens of species in this comprehensive 30 lecture series (approximately 30 hrs of instruction). Taught in 3 parts, Part 1: Communication 101 will teach you the six basic techniques of creating any behavior and how to choose the right method for the right situation! Learn to understand classical and operant learning and the art of training. Parts 2 and 3: Motivation and Practical Training 101- will teach you to master the process of troubleshooting, reducing fears and problem behavior, and creating complex behavior you never thought possible! Watch anytime on demand at your own convenience! *Registration and Tuition:* Visit https://animaltraining.us/registration-open-at-101-online/ to register for the course. Tuition: $400 plus $50 certification fee for Certificate in *General Behavior Modification*. Jenifer Zeligs, Ph.D. Owner Animal Training and Research International Extended Education, California State University Monterey Bay Director of SLEWTHS Moss Landing Marine Laboratories 8272 Moss Landing Road Moss Landing, CA 95039 v: (831)-771-4191 fax:(831)-632-4403 http://www.animaltraining.us/

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NEW PUBLICATION: Multi‐state open robust design applied to opportunistic data reveals dynamics of wide‐ranging taxa: the sperm whale case
by Rebecca Boys 04 Mar '19

04 Mar '19

Dear all, Apologies for cross-posting. We are pleased to announce our recent publication in the ESA Journal Ecosphere: Boys, R.M., Oliveira, C., Pérez‐Jorge<https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/action/doSearch?ContribAuthorSt…>, S., Prieto, R., Steiner, L. And Silva, M.A. (2019) Multi‐state open robust design applied to opportunistic data reveals dynamics of wide‐ranging taxa: the sperm whale case. Ecosphere Abstract: Capture–mark–recapture methods have been extensively used to estimate abundance, demography, and life history parameters of populations of several taxa. However, the high mobility of many species means that dedicated surveys are logistically complicated and expensive. Use of opportunistic data may be an alternative, if modeling takes into account the inevitable heterogeneity in capture probability from imperfect detection and incomplete sampling, which can produce significant bias in parameter estimates. Here, we compare covariate‐based open Jolly‐Seber models (POPAN) and multi‐state open robust design (MSORD) models to estimate demographic parameters of the sperm whale population summering in the Azores, from photo‐identification data collected opportunistically by whale‐watching operators and researchers. The structure of the MSORD also allows for extra information to be obtained, estimating temporary emigration and improving precision of estimated parameters. Estimates of survival from both POPAN and MSORD were high, constant, and very similar. The POPAN model, which partially accounted for heterogeneity in capture probabilities, estimated an unbiased super‐population of ~1470 whales, with annual abundance showing a positive trend from 351 individuals (95% CI: 234–526) in 2010 to 718 (95% CI: 477–1082) in 2015. In contrast, estimates of abundance from MSORD models that explicitly incorporated imperfect detection due to temporary emigration were less biased, more precise, and showed no trend over years, from 275 individuals (95% CI: 188–404) in 2014 to 367 (95% CI: 248–542) in 2012. The MSORD estimated short residence time and an even‐flow temporary emigration, meaning that the probability of whales emigrating from and immigrating to the area was equal. Our results illustrate how failure to account for transience and temporary emigration can lead to biased estimates and trends in abundance, compromising our ability to detect true population changes. MSORD models should improve inferences of population dynamics, especially when capture probability is low and highly variable, due to wide‐ranging behavior of individuals or to non‐standardized sampling. Therefore, these models should provide less biased estimates and more accurate assessments of uncertainty that can inform management and conservation measures. The paper is open access and is available for download here: https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/ecs2.2610 For any questions please feel free to email me. Kind regards, Rebecca Boys ------------------------------------------------------------- Rebecca M Boys Marine Biologist PhD Candidate Coastal Marine Research Group Massey University New Zealand https://www.coastalmarineresearchgroup.com/ @RebeccaMBoys European Cetacean Society Student Representative Society of Marine Mammalogy Education sub-committee member

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Seeking additional volunteer research assistant for the forthcoming 2019 field season in Shark Bay – deadline extended
by Holmes, Kathryn Grace - holmeskg 04 Mar '19

04 Mar '19

Dear MARMAM Community, Further to our previous advertisement (amended below), we are seeking an additional full-time volunteer research assistant from May through July/August and have extended the application deadline until Monday, 11th of March 2019. We are seeking three full-time volunteer research assistants for the Dolphin Alliance Project’s (http://www.sharkbaydolphins.org/) forthcoming field season in Shark Bay, Western Australia, a remote World Heritage Area. Specifically, you will assist one of two PhD students. One assistant is needed from the first week of May through July/August and two are needed from August/September through November (13 – 17 weeks). One project, running from May through August, investigates the development of alliance behaviour and juvenile males’ social bonds. The other project, running from August through November, investigates the effects of habitat configuration and acoustic detection range on male alliance behaviour. Fieldwork is based at the Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort in the eastern gulf of Shark Bay. You will assist with boat-based surveys, and the collection of photo-ID, behavioural, acoustic, genetic, and ecological data from the resident dolphins and their environment. Assistants should be adaptable and patient, as our fieldwork schedule is highly weather dependent: when the weather permits, we will work long hours on the water and on consecutive days; when the weather does not permit fieldwork, we will be working on photo-matching and processing, data entry, and our long-term database. The effort is well worth it, as you will gain insight into the behaviour of an incredible population of dolphins that form multi-level alliances, and those that exhibit foraging specialisations (including sponging tool-use), as well as a diverse array of other wildlife (e.g. sharks, rays, turtles, dugongs). We seek dedicated, hard-working individuals with the willingness and ability to acquire new skills, as well as work diligently on routine tasks. As we live and work closely in small teams for extended periods, we need easy-going, team players who maintain a mature and positive attitude. Prior field experience with cetaceans, including familiarity with conducting photo-ID and the handling of small (<6m) boats are highly desirable qualities. Please note that these are volunteer positions. You will need to make your own way to Shark Bay, but food and shared accommodation (in the Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort backpackers) on-site are covered. Only those who can commit to at least three months beginning in May, August or September will be considered. Applicants should send a CV (max 3 pages), including contact details of two referees, and a short (max 1 page) cover letter in a single PDF to Kathryn Holmes (kathryn.holmes(a)research.uwa.edu.au) and Pernille Sørensen (pernille.sorensen(a)bristol.ac.uk) The application deadline is Monday, 11th of March 2019. Best wishes, Kathryn and Pernille ------------------------------------------ Kathryn Holmes, PhD Candidate School of Biological Sciences University of Western Australia Crawley WA 6009 Email: kathryn.holmes(a)research.uwa.edu.au<mailto:kathryn.holmes@research.uwa.edu.au> Pernille Meyer Sørensen, PhD Candidate School of Biological Sciences Life Sciences Building | 24 Tyndall Avenue University of Bristol | Bristol BS8 1TQ | U.K. Email: pernille.sorensen(a)bristol.ac.uk<file:///Users/hj19082/Desktop/pernille.sorensen@bristol.ac.uk>

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Job Opportunity: Hawaiian Monk Seal Research Program Lead - NOAA
by Charles Littnan - NOAA Federal 04 Mar '19

04 Mar '19

Aloha All- We are currently searching for the next program leader for NOAA Fisheries' Hawaiian monk seal program. We are hiring one position in either the Supervisory Marine Biology or Supervisory Veterinary Medical Officer Tracks. Applicants must be US Citizens or Nationals. General duties include: Exercise decision-making authority over a comprehensive scientific research program focused on conservation of Hawaiian monk seals, including directing scientific priorities, participating in analyses and drafting of publications and policies, and ensuring the quality of scientific products. Ensure program compliance with Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), Endangered Species Act (ESA), and other environmental Acts regulating research related to Hawaiian monk seals. Perform strategic planning functions for the monk seal program, such as approving work plans to enhance achievement of goals, overseeing the revision of long-range plans, goals, objectives, and policy and organizational changes, and approving allocation and distribution of funds. Develop peer-reviewed journal publications on protected species, health and disease issues, and monk seal conservation initiatives, and make presentations on monk seal recovery issues and research results. Perform the full-range of supervisory duties, including evaluating work, providing advice to employees, reviewing disciplinary action, approving expenses, overtime, and employee travel, and assessing training needs. The veterinary position will have additional responsibilities related to animal care and husbandry, health and disease research and more. Marine Biologist https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/525880900 Veterinary Medical Officer https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/525880100 Application window is open until March 18, 2019 *Charles Littnan, PhD.* Division Director Protected Species Division NOAA IRC NMFS/PIFSC/PSD/Charles Littnan 1845 WASP Blvd., Building 176 Honolulu, HI 96818 PH: (808) 725-5711 Fax: (808) 725-5567

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