January 2020 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Science and Outreach Internship - Whale and Dolphin Conservation, North America
by Monica Pepe 10 Jan '20

10 Jan '20

SCIENCE AND OUTREACH INTERNSHIP WDC North America (NA), located in Plymouth, Massachusetts, offers internships providing science, education, and conservation experience in working for an international non-profit organization. At the end of the program our hope is that interns will be able to leave with a comprehensive understanding of both the exciting and routine aspects of what it takes to research and conserve marine mammals. We are currently seeking applicants to fill available positions for spring (beginning in April) and summer (beginning in May) 2020. Applications for spring positions are due by 11:59PM EST on Sunday, February 2nd. Applications for summer positions are due by 11:59PM EST on Sunday, March 1st. Logistics Fieldwork is primarily carried out on commercial whale watching boats and the field season is April - October. The frequency of fieldwork is weather dependent. The program requires a minimum commitment of 12 weeks, with the possibility of extending the term on a case-by-case basis. The internship is a full- time position requiring availability 7 days a week due to the scheduling of outreach events and daily whale watching trips. There is no fee or compensation for the internship positions. Participants must arrange for their own transportation to and from Plymouth and provide their own food. Furnished housing with a shared bedroom is available on site for a monthly fee of $300 USD, which is strictly to offset the cost of housing. Those that can provide their own housing are encouraged to apply. WDC is willing to help qualified students obtain credits for the program through their college or university. International applicants interested in the internship program must be able to secure their own travel visa and other required documentation. Successful candidates will focus their time in two main areas - science and outreach. Science Responsibilities * Marine mammal species identification and behavior observations in the field * Collecting and processing opportunistic marine mammal sightings data in the Southern Gulf of Maine * Collecting and processing images of marine mammals in the Southern Gulf of Maine * Photo identification and cataloging of individually identifiable humpback and finback whales * Database coding and cleaning * Understanding how science guides WDC's policy initiatives Outreach Responsibilities * Interaction with whale watch passengers - answering questions and using educational props for informal education * Assisting staff at school programs for all grade levels * Participating in local festivals and outreach events - encouraging people to get involved in WDC's mission * Exhibiting WDC's largest educational resource - a life-size inflatable whale named Delilah<https://us.whales.org/delilah/>! * Writing blogs and social media content * Initiate discussions with groups of people of all ages * Attendance at conferences, meetings, and stakeholder discussions (as opportunities arise) Candidate Qualifications * Must be 18 years or older (preference given to students matriculated in or recently graduated from appropriate graduate or undergraduate degree programs) * Fluency in English * Possession of a valid driver's license is strongly preferred * Be able to show proof of valid health insurance * Capable of spending long days in an office environment * Ability to work on sea going vessels for long hours, sometimes in adverse weather conditions * Some physical labor required (i.e. transporting event materials) * Excellent verbal and written communications skills * Must be comfortable speaking in front of groups of people of all walks of life * Act effectively as a member of a close-knit team * Ability to function well under pressure * Ability to relay scientific information to the general public in an understandable way * Ability to problem solve in unanticipated situations * Good computer skills - familiarity with operating PCs How to Apply Please only submit the following via e-mail to monica.pepe(a)whales.org<mailto:monica.pepe@whales.org>: 1. Cover letter - Clearly indicate your availability (specific dates, if possible) in the cover letter 2. Resume 3. Contact information for two references including e-mail, phone number, and your affiliation to the reference. No prewritten letters, please. 4. A supporting document of no more than 300 words answering only one of the following prompts: * In order to save a species, where do you think conservation efforts should start? * Whale watching can be a controversial topic. Does whale watching do more harm than good, or more good than harm? * In your opinion, what is the greatest threat that whales and dolphins face? For more information visit our website at https://us.whales.org/science-and-outreach-internship/. Any additional questions should be directed to Monica Pepe via email at monica.pepe(a)whales.org<mailto:monica.pepe@whales.org> or by calling the office at (508) 746-2522. WDC, Whale and Dolphin Conservation, is the leading international charity dedicated solely to the worldwide conservation and welfare of all whales, dolphins, and porpoises. WDC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin. Please review our Privacy Notice<https://adopt-us.whales.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Privacy-Notice-NA-Ap…> for information on how we collect and store your secure information. Monica Pepe Policy Manager Conservation and Education Telephone: +1 508 746 2522 Skype monica.c.pepe WDC, Whale and Dolphin Conservation 7 Nelson Street Plymouth, MA 02360-4044 United States whales.org<http://whales.org> [WDC - Protecting Whales and Dolphins for over 30 years]<https://whales.org/> [WDC on Facebook]<https://www.facebook.com/uswhalesorg> [WDC North America on Twitter] <https://www.twitter.com/whales_org> [WDC on Instagram] <https://www.instagram.com/whales_org> [WDC on YouTube] <https://www.youtube.com/whalesorg> [WDC Blogs] <https://us.whales.org/category/news/> [WDC E-Newsletter] <https://us.whales.org/> [WDC on GuideStar]<https://www.guidestar.org/profile/02-0749188> ________________________________ Whale and Dolphin Conservation ("WDC"), Inc. is an IRS recognized 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Your contributions are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. WDC, 7 Nelson Street, Plymouth, MA 02360-4044 Tel: +1 (508) 746-2522 This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager. Please note that any views or opinions presented in this email are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the company. Finally, the recipient should check this email and any attachments for the presence of viruses. The company accepts no liability for any damage caused by any virus transmitted by this email. ________________________________

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Marine Education Internship - Provincetown, MA USA
by Stephanie Richardson 10 Jan '20

10 Jan '20

*Marine Education * *Summer 2020 Internship Opportunity* The Center for Coastal Studies is a non-profit organization dedicated to conducting scientific research with emphasis on marine mammals of the western North Atlantic and on the coastal and marine habitats and resources of the Gulf of Maine. CCS has been conducting research and marine and coastal educational programs on Cape Cod for 42 years. *Education Responsibilities*-Intern/s will assist with environmental education programs, including on-site programs, off-site programs, and festivals, including CCS’s signature summer week of events: Whale Week: A Celebration of the Sea, and Whale Camp. Interns will assist in staffing the Center’s SEASpace Marine Discovery Center, and beach pop-up tents; designing and delivering presentations, answering questions about CCS, marine animals (especially whales, seals and sharks) and ocean conservation issues, and other general duties. Interns must have their own transportation, and housing is not provided. A small stipend is provided. *Qualifications-* - The internship is open to students who are currently enrolled in, or recently graduated from an accredited college or university. - Preference will be given to students or recent graduates working towards environmental studies, education, marine science, biology or other related fields. - Intern should demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills. - Intern should be a self-starter able to take responsibility for completing projects. - Students that are adaptable, responsible, hard working, willing to learn, and have attention to detail are encouraged to apply. - Must be able to work independently and as part of a team. - Must be comfortable working with all ages. - Must be comfortable working outside in all conditions. - Must be comfortable working with and handling marine species. - Interns must be able to commit to at least two-three months; preferred start date-end date mid June to mid August, but dates are flexible based on school schedules. - Interns must work a minimum of 20 hours per week. - Schedule is flexible but intern may have to work some weekends and evenings. - Preference will be given to students with secured housing on Cape Cod. To Apply- Send your resume, cover letter, and one letter of reference to Stephanie Richardson at srichardson(a)coastalstudies.org or 5 Holway Ave, Provincetown, Massachusetts 02567. Applications must be received by March 13, 2020. -- Stephanie Richardson Human Resource Manager Center for Coastal Studies 5 Holway Avenue Provincetown, MA 02657 t. (508) 487-3622 Ext. 113

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SPRING Internship – Northcoast Marine Mammal Center
by Karen Helms 10 Jan '20

10 Jan '20

SPRING Internship – Northcoast Marine Mammal Center The Northcoast Marine Mammal Center in Crescent City, California, is seeking applicants for several internships in marine mammal stranding response and rehabilitation. Internships are a minimum of 12 weeks, with longer commitments encouraged. Applicants will be living and working in Crescent City, CA. The spring term (Harbor Seal Pupping Season) is the busiest and most “hands-on” term at NMMC. There are three spring internships available. Interns will participate in: * marine mammal rescue and health assessment * food preparation and feeding patients * wound care and medication administration * blood draw and subcutaneous fluid administration * observing surgeries and necropsies * cleaning pens, pools, kennels and hospital facility * fundraising events and special projects Qualifications: * must be physically fit with the ability to lift 50lbs and walk long distances on the beach in adverse conditions such as hot and cold temperatures, humidity, rain, and wind * must be willing to work 5 days a week including evenings, weekends, and holidays * must be self-motivated, articulate, reliable, and responsible * must work well independently as well as with a team * must possess a valid driver’s license * must have experience with Microsoft Office, Word and Excel * interns are responsible for making all arrangements with their educational institution for university credit This is an unpaid position with no housing provided. All interns are responsible for obtaining housing and transportation. A vehicle is preferred as public transportation is very limited and will not allow for participation in rescues which frequently happen on short notice. Application Deadline: January 17, 2020. Internship Start Date: March 2, 2020 (start date may be flexible) To Apply: please include the following and submit via email to volunteer(a)northcoastmmc.org<mailto:volunteer@northcoastmmc.org>. Incomplete submissions will not be considered. No phone calls or faxes please. * a cover letter that includes preferred term length (3-month minimum with longer time commitments encouraged) * a current curriculum vitae/resume * three references familiar with the applicant's academic/professional performance

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UF Stranding Biologist - Marine Animal Rescue Program
by Larson,Audrey M 10 Jan '20

10 Jan '20

The University of Florida Marine Animal Rescue Program (UF MAR) is seeking a full time Marine Animal Stranding Biologist for stranding response and recovery in Levy, Taylor, and Dixie counties. The Stranding Biologist, along with UF Marine Animal Rescue veterinarians and staff, will respond to sick, injured, or deceased marine mammals and sea turtles, as the primary coverage staff member. The Stranding Biologist will be stationed in a guest office in the Lower Suwanee National Wildlife Refuge in Chiefland, FL, interact closely with the refuge personnel, and must be willing to live near the coast. The Stranding Biologist is supported by faculty and staff at the UF College of Veterinary Medicine (UF CVM) and Aquatic Animal Health Program volunteers and will report directly to the faculty principal investigators as their main supervisors. The Stranding Biologist will also work in partnership with the UF/IFAS Nature Coast Biological Station and the Cedar Key Dolphin Project, as well as a host of other close partners. The successful applicant will continue to build the fairly new stranding program with volunteers, local personnel, training and public education. The position's responsibilities will be based initially on the experience of the applicant hired and additional training will be provided where necessary. Additionally, this position is funded by a grant received from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) as part of the (NOAA NMFS) Southeast Stranding Network under the Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response Program. The Stranding Biologist will be responsible for the following: * Coordinate stranding response, recovery and reports of cetaceans, manatees, and sea turtles within the designated response area. * Organize and oversee the daily operations of the stranding program including, but not limited to monitoring and response to stranding calls and adhering to local and national laws and policies regarding protected species and habitats. * Collect data and complete required documentations (e.g. 24-hour report, Level A Data, Sea Turtle Stranding and Salvage Network Report (STSSN)) for all stranded animals and complete required reporting to databases including GulfMAP and FWC's STSSN. * Develop and submit quarterly program activity reports and budget reimbursement requests to the NFWF coordinator of the grant * Coordinate and conduct or assist veterinarian in necropsies both in the field and at UF CVM, including coordinating the disposal of carcasses and waste materials. * Maintain inventory database for all samples and marine mammal parts in conjunction with UF CVM staff and proper NMFS, USFWS, and FWC permitting regulations. * Maintain equipment, vehicle, and vessel as well as required logs for vehicle usage. * Develop and maintain a volunteer, partner, and public outreach network to assist in stranding response, public support, and necropsy. * Coordinate UFMAR's involvement in public outreach events, including organizing attendance at festivals, scheduling lectures, and developing school programs to increase awareness of the program and the species involved. * Conduct workshops and trainings for stranding program volunteers in conjunction with the PI, UF CVM faculty and staff. * Ensure adequate safety training and PPE for all volunteers, staff, and faculty for all procedures involved in stranding response and necropsy, including, but not limited to: hazardous and biological waste training, boating safety, animal handling, and zoonotic disease prevention after completing University training in these areas. * Assist in grant writing and development activities. * Assist and participate with research projects related to stranding events, local population studies with program participants and pursue drone certification with UF for field use. * When not engaged in primary stranding efforts, biologist can assist program partners such as the Cedar Key Dolphin Project(Dolphin Population Research) or Nature Coast Biological Station with local research * Work with program PI, faculty and staff to continue to enhance the stranding response in a not previously covered and challenging environment Applicants should possess or develop the following qualifications: * Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and related software programs, preferably including Microsoft Access. * Excellent organizational skills and the ability to work independently. * Excellent interpersonal skills to foster and maintain a professional network of partners, volunteers, and supporters. * Flexibility with regards to scheduling to accommodate the unpredictable nature of stranding response and requirement of 24/7 on-call status. * High level interpersonal communication skills. * Relevant experience in marine mammal stranding and necropsy (may be a combination of paid and unpaid work). * Ability to lift and carry 50 lbs. unassisted after proper training. * Ability to drive a large truck and boat including ability to trailer and tow vessel. * Ability to work under harsh weather conditions. * Grant writing skills are highly desirable. Pay range: $15.00 to $17.00 per hour This is a full time OPS position. Employees are eligible to receive benefits including health, eye, and dental insurance. Minimum Requirements: Bachelor's degree in appropriate area of specialization and experience with stranding work (Cetaceans, manatees, and sea turtles). Preferred Qualifications: Experience in stranding program(s) and procedures. Team based work ethic and leadership capabilities. CPR and first aid certifications. Experience with dolphin photo ID. Applications for the position should include the following: CV/Resume, Cover letter, letters of reference from three individuals (preferably involved in the stranding field) including full contact information. Please send materials to Mike Walsh walshm(a)ufl.edu<mailto:walshm@ufl.edu> and Laurie Adler ladler1(a)ufl.edu<mailto:ladler1@ufl.edu>. Application deadline: January 23rd, 2020 by 6:00pm

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seasonal internships in animal care and training
by Stefani Skrovan 09 Jan '20

09 Jan '20

*Would you like to work with a team that always puts the animals first?* Short-Term Seasonal Internships applications are now being accepted! *Animal Professionals to be proud of*: The SLEWTHS (*Science Learning and Exploration With The Help of Sea lions*) project is the non-profit arm of Animal Training and Research Intl, and is affiliated with Moss Landing Marine Laboratories and the California State University system. Located on the beautiful central coast of California, we function as a small teaching aquarium specializing in the highest levels of training with compassionate care. SLEWTHS is a long-term rescue facility for un-releasable sea lions. For more information, please visit our website at www.animaltraining.us <http://www.animaltraining.usT> Internship Applications are now being accepted for the SLEWTHS project. Two intensive internship levels are available for our April – June 2020, and July – Sept. 2020 terms: *Animal Care* (entry level), and *Animal Training* (candidates with training/animal experience). Each unpaid internship is 3 months in duration (extensions available for excellent candidates). Application deadline is February 1, 2020. These are unpaid positions, and interns are responsible for providing their own housing and transportation. Once accepted, SLEWTHS staff will do their best to assist in finding rental housing options. International applicants are encouraged, however no visa assistance can be provided. The *Animal Care Internship* is designed for those interested in a career with animals to gain valuable experience with world class animal training in a force-free environment. Interns will participate in and learn all aspects of husbandry such as food preparation, record keeping, daily cleaning, and facility maintenance. Interns may also participate in public outreach and conservation programs and current research, all with the cooperative help of sea lions. Our goal is to give interns a well-rounded experience in a variety of areas while providing expert training exposure. Optional certification is available in Animal Care. *"I love the passion everyone has in providing the best care for the animals. This project exceeded my expectations."* -Jacqueline Olvera (intern) *“The positive and enthusiastic attitudes of the SLEWTHS staff, gives this program really great energy. You all have created a safe environment which has made it easy and fun to learn.”* -Jennifer LaBar The *Animal Training Internship* is available for professionals or those who already have hands-on experience training or caring for animals. They will perform all the tasks above, but in addition, can train and work directly with our animals in both protected and free contact. Interns may also get credentialed up to trainer level (according to past experience). Interns must take the Animal Training 101course (additional cost), offered online at: https://animaltraining.us/registration-open-at-101-online/ or have taken another ATR workshop/course. *“The most valuable experience was my animal training sessions because it was the most hands on experience I had because I was able to see my improvements from the first session to the last and get valuable insight.”-* Mia Young (intern) *Interns must be:* • 18 years or older. • Able to commit to a minimum of at least 12 weeks, 40 hours a week minimum. • Available to work weekdays, weekends, and holidays. • Able to lift 50 lbs, work long hours, and work outside in all weather conditions. • Able to maintain a positive attitude, good work ethic, sense of responsibility, and a strong willingness to learn. • Able to obtain housing and transportation (public transportation in our area is very poor). *To Apply:* Instructions and applications may be found at https://animaltraining.us/seasonal-volunteer-internship-position/ email sskrovan(a)mlml.calstate.edu with any questions -- Stefani Skrovan Curator of Animals Moss Landing Marine Labs Animal Training and Research Intl. 8272 Moss Landing Rd Moss Landing CA 95039 831-771-4191

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Post-doc fellowship offer in Madeira.
by Ruth Esteban 09 Jan '20

09 Jan '20

Dear all, Post-doc fellowship offer in Madeira. Develop an ecosystem model for Madeira archipelago marine environment based on Ecopath, with Ecosim (EwE) and Ecospace valences to inform the Development process of a coordinated approach for assessing MSFD Descriptor 4 in the Macaronesian subregion in Project Mistic Seas III. “MISTIC SEAS III – Developing a coordinated approach for assessing Descriptor 4 via its linkage with D1 and other relevant descriptors in the Macaronesian subregion”, is a project financed by the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF), through DG Environment (MFSD 2018 call) (MISTICSEAS3_GA.110661/2018/794676/SUB/ENV.C2). The project aims to address the assessment of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) Descriptor 4 (Ecosystems, including food webs) at the Macaronesian sub-regional level following the criteria set up under the new Commission good environmental status (GES) Decision 2017/848/EC. This scholarship is to contract a research with knowledge and solid experience in ecosystem models based on Ecopath and using Ecosim (EwE), namely, the compilation and organization of data, building and operationalizing (parameterization and balancing) of the model and explore scenarios in Ecosim relevant for the purpose of the project. It will be given relevance to experience also in incorporating the spatial dimension into the process through Ecospace. The applicant should have a solid theoretical knowledge of marine ecosystems and their interactions, especially in oceanic island associated environments. The work of the modeller will be supported by two post-docs researchers that will assist the modeller in data compilation, organization and processing to feed the model and the simulations, both with possible temporal and spatial components. The work may involve either the adaptation/improvement of an existing Ecopath for Madeira archipelago marine ecosystem and/or the development of a new model, in coordination with teams working in equivalent models in the Azores and the Canary Islands. The selected applicant will temporarily integrate the Madeira Whale Museum team (partner of OOM - Madeira Oceanic Observatory), with experience in the ecological study of top predators, specially cetaceans, and their relationship with the marine environment, including, trophic relationships. Interested applicants should visit the following link: https://www.arditi.pt/index.php/concursos/bolsas-concursos?id=410 Cheers, Ruth Ruth Esteban, PhD. +34675837508 +351912847395

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New Publication: Genotoxic effects of HCB to HuWa cell line
by Susan Bengtson Nash 08 Jan '20

08 Jan '20

Dear MARMAM Colleagues, We are happy to announce our latest publication in Royal Society of Chemistry Advances: Maner, J., Burkard, M., Cassano, J., Bengtson Nash, S., Schirmer, K., & Suter, M. Hexachlorobenzene exerts genotoxic effects in a humpback whale cell line under stable exposure conditions. Royal Society of Chemistry Advances 9:39447 In this paper, we build upon species-specific toxicological effect data using the Humpback Whale immortalised cell line developed within our team. Abstract Humpback whales, like other polar wildlife, accumulate persistent organic pollutants. In Southern hemisphere populations, hexachlorobenzene (HCB) dominates the contaminant profiles. HCB is linked to a variety of health effects and is classified as a group 2B carcinogen, but the mechanism of action is a matter of contention. Potential toxicological effects to humpback whales remain entirely unknown. The recently established humpback whale fibroblast cell line (HuWa) offers an in vitro model for toxicological investigations. We here combine this novel cell line with a passive dosing strategy to investigate whale-specific toxicity of HCB. The relevant partitioning coefficients were determined to produce stable and predictable exposure concentrations in small-scale bioassays. The system was used to assess acute toxicity as well as genotoxicity of HCB to the HuWa cell line. While we found some transient reductions in metabolic activity, measured with the indicator dye alamarBlue, no clear acute toxic effects were discernible. Yet, a significant increase in DNA damage, detected in the alkaline comet assay, was found in HuWa cells exposed to 10 μg L−1 HCB during the sensitive phase of cell attachment. Collectively, this work provides a ready-to-use passive dosing system and delivers evidence that HCB elicits genotoxicity in humpback whale cells. Link to full text: https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2019/ra/c9ra05352b#!divAbstr… Hexachlorobenzene exerts genotoxic effects in a humpback whale cell line under stable exposure conditions - RSC Advances (RSC Publishing) <https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2019/ra/c9ra05352b#!divAbstr…> Humpback whales, like other polar wildlife, accumulate persistent organic pollutants. In Southern hemisphere populations, hexachlorobenzene (HCB) dominates the contaminant profiles. HCB is linked to a variety of health effects and is classified as a group 2B carcinogen, but the mechanism of action is a matter of co pubs.rsc.org All the best regards, Susan Associate Professor Susan Bengtson Nash Program Director Southern Ocean Persistent Organic Pollutants Program (SOPOPP) SCAR: Chair of ImPACT | ARC: College of Experts | Scientific Reports: Editor Environmental Futures Research Institute (EFRI), Griffith University, Nathan Campus. 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia. Email: s.bengtsonnash(a)griffith.edu.au | Phone: +61 (0)7 3735 5062 | Mobile: +61 (0)437 888 711 Twitter: @Antarctica_POPs | Skype: s.bengtsonnash | Website: http://www.griffith.edu.au/environment-planning-architecture/southern-ocean… [cid:a78f9ced-24e2-4507-9b4a-897e41043611]

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LAST MINUTE CALL - internship in Marine Mammals in Madeira
by Anja Badenas 08 Jan '20

08 Jan '20

Oceanic Observatory of Madeira (OOM/ARDITI) is currently opening INTERNSHIPS FOR WINTER and SPRING in Madeira Island (Portugal) The Oceanic Observatory of Madeira (OOM) is a research unit within the Regional Agency for the Development of Research, Technology and Innovation (ARDITI), located in Madeira Island, Portugal. OOM seeks to become a centre of excellence dedicated to research and permanent monitoring of the ocean. This initiative brings together a multidisciplinary scientific community, joining several institutions with the aim of promoting cooperation and resource optimization. http://oom.arditi.pt OOM/ARDITI is looking for interns to help with our marine mammals’ research project based in Madeira Island, Portugal. We are currently filling 1 position for February-March and 1 position for April-May 2020 Priority will be given to those interns who are available both periods. Internship Details: In the Madeira Archipelago, located in Macaronesia (NE Atlantic), 29 species of cetaceans have been recorded. There is a daily ferry boat that conducts trips between the 2 main islands of the archipelago, Madeira and Porto Santo. Interns will be onboard the ferry boat and will be enrolled in data collection through visual surveys 3 days per week. Interns must cover all their accommodation, travel and food expenses. These positions are unpaid but we encourage candidates to seek grants where we can post as host institution. To cover for logistic expenses, there is a monthly fee of 75eur, paid fully upon arrival. Non-European candidates must cover their own insurance expenses. Internship description: - Training on monitoring protocol and cetacean identification; - Sea surveys Madeira-Porto Santo; - Educational activities in local schools or to the general public (when possible); - Free time to visit Madeira and Porto Santo; - Accident insurance. Successful applicants should possess or be enrolled in a BS or MS course in biology or related, be reliable, dedicated, adaptable and patient, as this work is highly weather dependent and requires consecutive days of work at sea. Interns should be independent and proactive. If you are an undergraduate or graduate student interested in pursuing a career in marine mammal research, this is an excellent opportunity to learn and gain experience at sea. Positions will be open until filled. If you are interested in interning with OOM/ARDITI, please send a CV and a letter of interest to anja.badenas(a)mare-centre.pt . Thank you, Anja Badenas, MSc OOM-ARDITI-MARE Phone: +351291721246

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Marine mammal course in west Scotland (3-10 July 2020)
by ecm-parsons＠earthlink.net 08 Jan '20

08 Jan '20

Marine mammal course in west Scotland (3-10 July 2020) This field course at the Millport marine station is an intensive, comprehensive yet thoroughly enjoyable introduction to studying marine mammals. With dedicated vessel surveys, lab practicals, shore work and lectures that cover the whole spectrum of marine mammal science; this course is a one-of-kind experience into the world of whales, dolphins and seals led by experienced professionals. Their biology, physiology, ecology, conservation and sampling strategies will be detailed over the course by experts in different fields, with specific focus on practical sessions where data will be collected and analysed. These practicals include: a line-transect survey for birds and cetaceans, a seal colony behavioural study, an acoustic workshop, an otter diet analysis and a land-based observation for megafauna. The Clyde is home to a wide variety of marine megafauna and is the perfect setting for observing mammals and birds in the wild. The use of the marine stations research vessel RV Actinia, state-of-the-art lab facilities, comfortable lecture theatres and specialist equipment are an integral part of this course, along with the specialisms of the teaching staff involved. Please note this course is aimed at those who are currently undertaking, or have recently undertaken, a degree in a relevant scientific discipline or those pursuing post-graduate studies. The course currently hosts regular undergraduate cohorts from the Universities of Glasgow and Stirling, but is also frequently attended by independent and visiting international students. Cost: £661.00 £753.00 (~US$866-987 including accommodation, food, tuition and trips) For details and booking go to: https://www.field-studies-council.org/shop/courses/marine-mammals/?fbclid=Iw AR2L__UK4zsFIR7Rpd7c4itwSzxWTa7F5ks-u6MRWZF8cjE_1Cf-a6GcgQA

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New publication: Field metabolic rates in a declining fur seal population
by Elizabeth McHuron 08 Jan '20

08 Jan '20

Dear colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce our new publication "Factors affecting energy expenditure in a declining fur seal population" in Conservation Physiology. The article is open access https://academic.oup.com/conphys/article/7/1/coz103/5686272 <https://academic.oup.com/conphys/issue/7/1> *Abstract* Quantifying metabolic rates and the factors that influence them is key to wildlife conservation efforts because anthropogenic activities and habitat alteration can disrupt energy balance, which is critical for reproduction and survival. We investigated the effect of diving behaviour, diet and season on field metabolic rates (FMR) and foraging success of lactating northern fur seals (Callorhinus ursinus) from the Pribilof Islands during a period of population decline. Variation in at-sea FMR was in part explained by season and trip duration, with values that ranged from 5.18 to 9.68 W kg −1 (n = 48). Fur seals experienced a 7.2% increase in at-sea FMR from summer to fall and a 1.9% decrease in at-sea FMR for each additional day spent at sea. There was no effect of foraging effort, dive depth or diet on at-sea FMR. Mass gains increased with trip duration and were greater in the fall compared with summer, but were unrelated to at-sea FMR, diving behaviour and diet. Seasonal increases in at-sea FMR may have been due to costs associated with the annual molt but did not appear to adversely impact the ability of females to gain mass on foraging trips. The overall high metabolic rates in conjunction with the lack of any diet-related effects on at-sea FMR suggests that northern fur seals may have reached a metabolic ceiling early in the population decline. This provides indirect evidence that food limitation may be contributing to the low pup growth rates observed in the Pribilof Islands, as a high metabolic overhead likely results in less available energy for lactation. The limited ability of female fur seals to cope with changes in prey availability through physiological mechanisms is particularly concerning given the recent and unprecedented environmental changes in the Bering Sea that are predicted to have ecosystem-level impacts. Happy New Year and please don't hesitate to contact me with any questions ( emchuron(a)ucsc.edu or emchuron(a)uw.edu) Kind regards, Liz -- Elizabeth McHuron, Ph.D. Research Scientist University of Washington JISAO 115 McAllister Way Santa Cruz, CA 95060 emchuron(a)uw.edu <emchuron(a)ucsc.edu> emchuron(a)ucsc.edu

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