September 2023 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

MorphoMetriX v2 now available!
by Clara Bird 20 Sep '23

20 Sep '23

Greetings MarMam, Got megafauna to measure from drone imagery? We are excited to announce that MorphoMetriX version 2 is now available! https://github.com/ZappyMan/MorphoMetriX-V2/releases MorphoMetriX is an open-source photogrammetry software developed as a user-friendly graphical user interface (GUI) with the flexibility to make customized length, width, area, and angle measurements with no required knowledge of any scripting language https://doi.org/10.21105/joss.01825. Some exciting new features for v2 include: · Easier downloading – no more command line. Instead, download .dmg (MacOS) and .exe (Windows) files directly and launch from your applications folder. The MacOS version is functional for both M1/M2 and Intel chip processors. · Efficient width measurements – the ‘Measure Widths’ function automatically divides a length measurement into perpendicular widths based on the designated number of width segments specified by the user. MorphoMetriX v2 now automatically places slidable width points on each perpendicular width line, enabling the user to easily adjust and edit width measurements until satisfied with each placement, whereas in v1 users had to manually click each width point with minimal editing ability. · Adjust color & size of width points – users can now customize the color and size of the width points to create contrast with the image and ensure that points do not obscure the view of the animal. · Mirror side – a new feature to help with measuring widths when one side of the whale is obstructed, i.e., glare, waves, shadows, refraction. Users can now select the whale’s “better side” and the distance between the width points on that side and the body length line are multiplied by two. This saves data from being thrown out! · Improved exporting – measurements are now exported in both meters and in pixels and saved in long format csv, for a more interpretable output that can easily be linked with additional metadata. · Automatic crash report – if MorphoMetriX v2 crashes, a crash report is automatically generated and saved so that it can be uploaded as an “Issue” report on GitHub to help communicate issues and further improve the program. MorphoMetriX v2 can be downloaded here: https://github.com/ZappyMan/MorphoMetriX-V2/releases Manual: https://github.com/ZappyMan/MorphoMetriX-V2/blob/master/MorphoMetriX_v2_man… Note that development of CollatriX v2 (https://doi.org/10.21105/joss.02328) is underway and a pre-release is currently available that is compatible with outputs from MorphoMetriX v2 (https://github.com/cbirdferrer/collatrix/releases/tag/v1.0.9 ). Keep an eye out for the final release of CollatriX v2 this fall, which will include several new features to help with processing and linking metadata with measurements. Our team is also working on developing some new tools for our photogrammetry workflow, if interested in receiving updates about new releases (like CollatriX v2) and events (such as workshops) please subscribe to our listserv here: https://lists.oregonstate.edu/mailman/listinfo/codex A huge thank you to all the users and beta testers who have provided awesome feedback over the years, which has helped us shape MorphoMetriX v2 into a more efficient, robust, and easier to use photogrammetry software. Thank you so much for all your help and support! Cheers, KC Bierlich, Clara Bird, Elliott Chimienti, and Walter Torres The MorphoMetriX Team Center of Drone Excellence (CODEX), Marine Mammal Institute, Oregon State University ---- Clara Bird (she/her) PhD Candidate Geospatial Ecology of Marine Megafauna Lab Marine Mammal Institute Dept. of Fisheries, Wildlife, & Conservation Sciences Oregon State University, Hatfield Marine Science Center

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New publication: Vulnerability to climate change of United States marine mammal stocks in the western North Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean
by Matthew Lettrich - NOAA Affiliate 20 Sep '23

20 Sep '23

On behalf of my co-authors, I'd like to share our new publication in PLOS ONE: Lettrich MD, Asaro MJ, Borggaard DL, Dick DM, Griffis RB, Litz JA, et al. (2023) Vulnerability to climate change of United States marine mammal stocks in the western North Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean. PLoS ONE 18(9): e0290643. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0290643 Abstract Climate change and climate variability are affecting marine mammal species and these impacts are projected to continue in the coming decades. Vulnerability assessments provide a framework for evaluating climate impacts over a broad range of species using currently available information. We conducted a trait-based climate vulnerability assessment using expert elicitation for 108 marine mammal stocks and stock groups in the western North Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean Sea. Our approach combined the exposure (projected change in environmental conditions) and sensitivity (ability to tolerate and adapt to changing conditions) of marine mammal stocks to estimate vulnerability to climate change, and categorize stocks with a vulnerability index. The climate vulnerability score was very high for 44% (n = 47) of these stocks, high for 29% (n = 31), moderate for 20% (n = 22), and low for 7% (n = 8). The majority of stocks (n = 78; 72%) scored very high exposure, whereas 24% (n = 26) scored high, and 4% (n = 4) scored moderate. The sensitivity score was very high for 33% (n = 36) of these stocks, high for 18% (n = 19), moderate for 34% (n = 37), and low for 15% (n = 16). Vulnerability results were summarized for stocks in five taxonomic groups: pinnipeds (n = 4; 25% high, 75% moderate), mysticetes (n = 7; 29% very high, 57% high, 14% moderate), ziphiids (n = 8; 13% very high, 50% high, 38% moderate), delphinids (n = 84; 52% very high, 23% high, 15% moderate, 10% low), and other odontocetes (n = 5; 60% high, 40% moderate). Factors including temperature, ocean pH, and dissolved oxygen were the primary drivers of high climate exposure, with effects mediated through prey and habitat parameters. We quantified sources of uncertainty by bootstrapping vulnerability scores, conducting leave-one-out analyses of individual attributes and individual scorers, and through scoring data quality for each attribute. These results provide information for researchers, managers, and the public on marine mammal responses to climate change to enhance the development of more effective marine mammal management, restoration, and conservation activities that address current and future environmental variation and biological responses due to climate change. A NOAA Fisheries webstory about the project can be found here: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/feature-story/marine-mammal-stocks-north-atl… Please reach out with any questions (matthew.lettrich(a)noaa.gov) Best, Matt Lettrich -- Matt Lettrich Protected Species Climate Vulnerability Assessment Lead, Contractor with ECS in support of NOAA Fisheries Office of Science and Technology | U.S. Department of Commerce Mobile: (860) 202-1400 www.fisheries.noaa.gov

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Sarasota Dolphin Research Program Internships - $3000 stipend, deadline Oct 1
by Katie McHugh 20 Sep '23

20 Sep '23

*Sarasota Dolphin Research Program Internships* The Chicago Zoological Society’s Sarasota Dolphin Research Program (SDRP), based at Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota, Florida, conducts the world’s longest-running study of a dolphin population. The program’s primary goal is to contribute to a better understanding of the structure and dynamics of populations of small cetaceans, as well as the natural and anthropogenic factors that impact them. The SDRP uses an interdisciplinary and collaborative approach in conducting studies of bottlenose dolphins within Sarasota Bay, Tampa Bay, Charlotte Harbor, Naples/Marco Island, and the Gulf of Mexico coastal waters. For more information about the SDRP, please visit:<http://www.sarasotadolphin.org>www.sarasotadolphin.org <http://www.sarasotadolphin.org>. The SDRP is now selecting volunteer interns through the Chicago Zoological Society (CZS) for our winter 2024 season.**These positions will ideally start in January and run through at least the end of March (limited opportunities to start in February or extend through the end of April may be available).*Completed applications are due to CZS by October 1st. * *Interns will be provided a $3000 stipend to help offset the cost of travel, housing and personal/incidental expenses associated with relocating for the term of the internship. *Interns will receive no remuneration for any duties or assignments they may perform during the internship.* * All internships must be a minimum of 10 weeks of participation, but ideally will run for 12-16 weeks. Please note that we typically only seek 2-4 interns for each session and that we receive many more applications than we have openings – the selection process is very competitive.Successful candidates will participate in the following research projects: 1)*Dolphin population monitoring project**:*(/YEAR ROUND/) This study monitors the resident bottlenose dolphin community in Sarasota Bay and vicinity. Duties in the field will include assisting with boat-based photographic identification surveys for dolphin groups during one to two weeks per month. Behavioral, location, individual, and environmental data will be recorded for each dolphin group, and additional data related to human-dolphin interactions will also be collected in conjunction with this project. While in the lab (at least 2 weeks per month), work will generally involve photo-identification of dolphins, computer data entry and double-checking, logging of videos into database and archives, dolphin dorsal fin identification catalog updates, boat and field equipment maintenance, and other duties. 2) *Dolphin prey and habitat use project**:* (/JAN-MAR & JUN-SEPT ONLY/) This study uses the Sarasota dolphin community and fish populations to study relationships between distributions of dolphins and their prey and factors that affect fish community ecology, such as red tide. While in the field, work will involve sampling of fish communities through purse seining techniques and collection of other environmental data. Interns typically participate in this project 2-3 days per month. 3)*Other projects* (/TBD/) Interns may participate in other research projects, depending on availability and timing of grant funding for specific projects.Interns may also be asked to assist with dolphin rescues and activities related to our Sarasota Bay Listening Network. Interns should expect to spend about 20% of their time in the field, and about 80% of their time in the lab working with data, or performing equipment maintenance. There is no financial compensation for these internship positions, and successful applicants will be responsible for their own living and transportation expenses. Shared housing opportunities near Mote Marine Laboratory may be available. Applicants would ideally have the following qualifications: * Minimum of 18 years of age and engaged in or recently completed undergraduate or graduate studies; * A background or degree in marine biology, biology, ecology, zoology, wildlife, fisheries, or a related field; * Basic computer proficiency in Microsoft Office programs (especially Excel and Access); * Excellent verbal communication skills, fluent in English; * Must be physically fit and able to swim; * Must be able to work effectively as part of a team; * Some prior field research experience preferred but not required; * Enthusiasm and desire to learn a variety of field and lab based research methods; * A willingness to spend a minimum of 10-12 weeks working full time as a volunteer with our program. *To apply for a Sarasota Dolphin Research Program internship, interested persons should:* 1) Fill out an application form on the Chicago Zoological Society’s internship website(https://www.czs.org/SDRPInterns) 2) Complete and provide to CZS all required application materials including: an application form, statement of interest, resume or CV, two letters of recommendation, and a current college transcript/. /Materials should be submitted via clicking "Apply Now!" at the bottom of the CZS Application Page: https://www.czs.org/internappinstructions (*incomplete applications will not be considered*) 3) Send an email to SDRP Intern Coordinator (Katie McHugh, _kmchugh(a)mote.org_) stating your name, contact information, exact dates and duration of availability, where you learned about the internship opportunity (/e.g. /Mote, SDRP, Chicago Zoological Society, MARMAM, etc.), and that you have provided all application materials to the CZS intern office, as detailed above. All applications will be reviewed; those received by the application deadline will be given first priority. Applicants may contact Dr. Katie McHugh (kmchugh(a)mote.org <mailto:TUkmchugh@mote.orgUT>) in the SDRP with any questions. Applicants applying because of an interest in engaging in graduate studies with the SDRP should discuss their interests with Program Director Randall Wells, PhD, upon acceptance into the program.There is no assurance that participation as an intern with the SDRP will lead to graduate research program opportunities. -- ************************************ Katherine McHugh Senior Scientist/Deputy Program Director Chicago Zoological Society's Sarasota Dolphin Research Program c/o Mote Marine Laboratory 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy Sarasota, FL 34236 (650) 400-2776 cell kmchugh(a)mote.org ************************************

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The Practice of RADseq: Population Genomics Analysis with Stacks (RADS02)
by Oliver Hooker 20 Sep '23

20 Sep '23

PR statistics is running a course on population genomics, this course is suitable for anyone studying population genomics in marine mammal populations. The skills learned are transferable across all taxa. Please email oliverhooker(a)prstatistics.com with any questions. The Practice of RADseq: Population Genomics Analysis with Stacks (RADS02) <https://www.prstatistics.com/course/the-practice-of-radseq-population-genom…> https://www.prstatistics.com/course/the-practice-of-radseq-population-genom… 2nd - 6th October 2023, 09:00-16:00 CDT (Central Daylight Time), however all sessions will be recorded and made available daily allowing attendees from different time zones to follow. Cost Early bird - book before 18th September £350.00 Normal - book after 18th September £450.00 Delivered by Dr Julian Catchen <https://catchenlab.life.illinois.edu/> Please feel free to share! About This Course This course is aimed at introducing researchers to the theory and practice of using reduced representation libraries – such as RAD sequencing – to preform population genomic analysis in non-model organisms. The course will center on running the software pipeline Stacks, focusing on how the characteristics of the underlying molecular libraries result in weak or robust analytical results. Sessions will be live online, consisting of a blend of lectures, interactive demonstrations, and lab practicals, where participants will have the opportunity to ask questions throughout. Computation will be done on the Amazon AWS Cloud. By the end of the course, participants should be able to: - Navigate the UNIX file system, execute commands, and interact with bioinformatic data files; - Understand how to perform a de novo analysis – without a reference genome – including parameter optimization; - Understand how PCR duplicates and other molecular library characteristics affect analysis; - Complete a reference genome-based analysis; - Take the outputs from Stacks to complete a Structure analysis (de novo), a genome scan based on FST(reference-based), and a private allele analysis. Please email oliverhooker(a)prstatistics.com -- Oliver Hooker PhD. PR statistics

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Seeking Right Whale Observer Intern
by Valerie Daniels 19 Sep '23

19 Sep '23

Right Whale Ecology Program – Photo-ID Internship Center for Coastal Studies (CCS), Provincetown MA USA The Center for Coastal Studies (CCS), a nonprofit institution dedicated to the understanding and protection of our coastal environment and marine ecosystems, is seeking a seasonal intern in the Right Whale Ecology Program from January 02 – May 30th, 2024. This long-term project focuses on documenting the abundance, distribution and behavior of North Atlantic right whales and their food resource in Cape Cod Bay and adjacent Massachusetts waters. The intern will be the primary vessel observer for the project and will participate in research cruises up to four days a week. Fieldwork responsibilities include photographing critically endangered North Atlantic right whales, collecting behavioral and environmental data, recording other sighting events (species, vessels, and fishing gear), and working with a habitat research team both in the field and office. Office responsibilities include photo-analysis (downloading images, inputting sightings information, matching individuals to known animals using an online and in-house catalog, cataloging), database entry and maintenance, assisting the aerial team and maintaining vessel field equipment. **Minimum Requirements: ** ● Previous marine mammal survey experience, including background in species identification and photo-identification of large cetaceans ● Experience with digital SLR cameras, lenses, and filters ● Basic computer literacy and working knowledge of Microsoft Office programs (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) ● Experience working on boats and ability to withstand harsh elements for up to 10 hrs at a time ● Not prone to seasickness ● Must be able to live and work well in a team ● Enthusiasm and willingness to learn field and lab-based research methods ● Strong attention to detail and ability to work well under pressure **Preferred Qualifications: ** ● A college degree, preferably in biological/ environmental sciences ● Experience using iMatch image database software ● Experience with database entry and management ● Experience using GPS equipment ● Demonstrated ability to estimate object ranges from a vessel ● A valid US driver’s license The successful applicant will be required to work five full days per week and will need to be flexible for research cruises due to weather constrictions. The intern will often collect data independently in the field, thus responsible, detail-oriented applicants are encouraged to apply. Applicants must be available for the full field season and must be willing to work weekends, holidays and evenings as needed. Housing will be provided, as well as a small stipend to cover general living expenses. International applicants must secure their own visas or other required documentation. CCS has a long history of conservation and research work with the North Atlantic right whale and Cape Cod Bay has been a major critical habitat for over 50% of the estimated population in recent years. This is an excellent opportunity for anyone wishing to expand their skills in marine mammal survey techniques, and will offer the successful applicant the unique chance to work with one of the world’s most endangered cetaceans. This internship will afford the successful applicant an invaluable opportunity to work within a well-established institution, with highly-qualified scientists, and to gain experience in photo-identification, matching, and data entry and analysis. Experience in oceanographic sampling can also be gained. Details of our work can be found on our website: http://coastalstudies.org/right-whale-research/ *How to Apply:* Please submit cover letter, CV/resume, and contact information for two professional references in a single pdf and attached along with copies of college transcripts via email to employment(a)coastalstudies.org, with 2024 RW Photo-ID Internship in the subject line. Deadline for submissions: October 9th, 2023 http://www.coastalstudies.org Valerie Daniels Human Resources Manager Center for Coastal Studies 5 Holway Avenue Provincetown, MA 02657

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DOSITS WEBINAR – MARINE MAMMAL AND VESSEL NOISE
by Ellen Bellagamba Fucile 19 Sep '23

19 Sep '23

The Discovery of Sound in the Sea (DOSITS)<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__www.dosits.org_&d=DwMFa…> Team is pleased to announce that it is again facilitating a free, four-part webinar series on underwater sound. Topics covered in 2023 include natural underwater sound, extreme sounds (natural and anthropogenic), the potential impacts of underwater sound associated with vessels (Saturn Project), and how animals (marine mammals, fishes, and even humans) may use ambient sound. Each webinar will run approximately 60 minutes in length and will consist of a presentation by one or more experts followed by a period of facilitated discussion. The webinar series is open to all interested individuals; however, registration is required. All webinars are presented in Zoom and via a YouTube stream. Post webinar recordings will also be available on the DOSITS website. Register Now for the 3rd 2023 Discovery of Sound in the Sea Webinar: Marine Mammals and Vessel Noise: Exposure, Impacts and Potential Solutions Wednesday, September 27, 2023 at 12:00pm EDT https://www.eventbrite.com/e/marine-mammals-and-vessel-noise-exposure-impac… This webinar will summarize current work on the exposure and impacts of vessel noise on marine mammals and discuss potential solutions. PD Certificate DOSITS will offer a Certificate of Professional Development in association with the 2023 Underwater Acoustics Webinar Series. There are no fees associated with this certificate. See the DOSITS 2023 webpage for more information (https://dosits.org/decision-makers/webinar-series/2023-webinar/) Questions? Please contact the DOSITS Team at dositswebinar(a)uri.edu<mailto:dositswebinar@uri.edu>. **apologies for cross-postings**

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ACCOBAMS Course for Marine Mammals Observers and Passive Acoustic Monitoring
by Oceanomare Delphis 18 Sep '23

18 Sep '23

Oceanomare Delphis Onlus and CIBRA, under the agreement signed with ACCOBAMS, will be running a training course to qualify individuals as Marine Mammal Observers and operators of Passive Acoustic Monitoring systems. When: 16-21 October 2023 Where: Genoa (Italy) Participation fee: 600 Euro The ACCOBAMS certification qualifies people to work as MMO/PAM operators throughout the Mediterranean and the Black Sea in 24 countries. After the course, The ACCOBAMS highly qualified MMO/PAM operators will be able to work to minimize the impact of noise on cetaceans by applying the knowledge, expertise, and skills acquired during the training course and using the standard procedures, forms, and manuals, following the ACCOBAMS principles. Speakers and Presenters: Giovanni Caltavuturo, Claudio Fossati, Guido Gnone, Patrick Lyne, Michele Manghi, Barbara Mussi. Requirements: - Graduated/current biology or ecology student or have experience demonstrating a commitment to the environment and its conservation - Minimum 30 days at sea as a marine observer - Ability to recognize the different species and understand the behavior of animals at sea - Ability to communicate in English - Have a theoretical understanding of acoustic issues - Ability to recognize the different vocalizations of marine mammals Topics Covered in the Training Course: - Introduction to underwater acoustics - Introduction to marine mammals and acoustics - Introduction to human activities generating underwater noise and impacts on marine mammals - Introduction to existing regulations, mitigation procedures, and ACCOBAMS Guidelines - Introduction to the role of MMO/PAM - Introduction to the lifestyle onboard - Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to map acoustic and visual sightings - Using PAM for survey and research - Introduction to the hardware used for PAM - Hands-on training with PAMGUARD-Tips and troubleshooting - Autonomous acoustic bottom recorders - The Intercet platform For more information or to apply, email postmaster(a)oceanomaredelphis.org Fees cover the training and the certificate (meals and accommodation not included). There will be one day of boat-based training (included in the fee) where there is a chance of cetacean encounters that allow you to practice your learned skills during the course.

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NOAA Fisheries Requests Public Comment on Proposed Incidental Take Regulations for the Atlantic Shores South Project, Offshore New Jersey
by Kelsey Potlock - NOAA Federal 18 Sep '23

18 Sep '23

Dear Colleagues, On Friday, September 22, 2023, NOAA Fisheries will open a 30-day public comment period on the proposed incidental take regulations related to Atlantic Shores’ Atlantic Shores South Project <https://www.boem.gov/renewable-energy/state-activities/atlantic-shores-south>. The project would be located offshore New Jersey within the New Jersey Wind Energy Area. Under Offshore Renewable Energy Certificates, the project would provide clean energy to New Jersey. Pursuant to the Marine Mammal Protection Act, these regulations would govern the “take” of small numbers of marine mammals exposed to elevated underwater noise generated by the project’s activities over a five-year period. NOAA Fisheries has preliminarily determined authorizing the requested take would have a negligible impact on all affected marine mammal species and stocks. The proposed regulations include mandatory mitigation measures that avoid or minimize the impacts of the activities on marine mammals and their habitat, as well as monitoring and reporting requirements to better understand those impacts. The public comment period on the proposed regulations will be open September 22, 2023 to October 23, 2023. Documents associated with this proposed action, including information on how to submit a public comment, will be available on our website <https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/action/incidental-take-authorization-atlanti…> . This regulatory action is part of NOAA’s ongoing work to ensure the nation’s deployment of offshore wind energy is done in a manner that avoids and minimizes impacts to protected resources and their habitats. Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns. Thank you, Kelsey - - - - - *Kelsey Potlock, M.Phil* *(she/her/hers)* *Marine Resources Management Specialist* Permits and Conservation Division Office of Protected Resources NOAA Fisheries | U.S. Department of Commerce www.fisheries.noaa.gov Google Voice Phone Number: (301) 427-8410 Email: *kelsey.potlock(a)noaa.gov <kelsey.potlock(a)noaa.gov>*><((((º>·.¸. ·.¸.·´¯`·...¸.·´¯`·...¸.·><((((º> ·.¸.·´¯`·...¸.·´¯`·...¸.·><((((º>·.¸.·´¯`·...¸.·´¯`·...¸.·><((((º> [image: icon-facebook.png] <https://www.facebook.com/NOAAFisheries>[image: icon-twitter.png] <http://www.twitter.com/noaafisheries>[image: icon-youtube.png] <http://www.youtube.com/usnoaafisheriesgov>[image: icon-instagram.png] <http://www.instagram.com/noaafisheries>[image: icon-linkedin.png] <http://www.linkedin.com/company/noaa-fisheries>

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New paper: Assessing spatial patterns and density of a dolphin population through signature whistles
by Bianca Romeu 18 Sep '23

18 Sep '23

Dear MARMAM colleagues, On behalf of my co-authors I would like to share our recent publication in Marine Mammal Science: Romeu, B., Daura-Jorge, F. G., Hammond, P. S., Castilho, P. V., & Simões-Lopes, P. C. (2023). Assessing spatial patterns and density of a dolphin population through signature whistles. Marine Mammal Science, 1–15. https://doi.org/10.1111/mms.13070 Abstract Some dolphin species produce signature whistles, which may allow the identification of individual dolphins using passive acoustic monitoring (PAM). Identifying individuals by their sounds may enhance the opportunities for monitoring and addressing biological and ecological questions about these species. Here, we explored the potential of signature whistles to investigate ecological aspects of a resident bottlenose dolphin population. Using a limited data set, with few individuals recognized by signature whistles, combined with spatial capture-recapture (SCR) methods, we investigated how effective such approach is describing spatial use patterns and estimating density for this population. The data were collected using 4–6 stationary bottom-moored recorders. Since only eight signature whistles were identified, our density estimate may represent a subset of the entire population. However, even with only a few signature whistles identified, our results confirmed the center of the core area used by these dolphins as the area with the highest encounter probability. In addition, our results provided evidence that these dolphins have the same spatial use pattern at night as during the day. This study shows that SCR analysis of signature whistle data can improve our ecological knowledge and understanding of dolphin populations. Any question or information about this paper, please contact me: romeu.bianca(a)gmail.com Kind regards, -- *Bianca Romeu * CRBio 88562/03-D ^ | \ __ - | - \ __ _ _/ -- -- \ __ _/ -- \ / @ ) _ / __-- ===> / _ __ -- _ _ _ _ -- -- / / | / / / |/ __/ /__ /__^__ /

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Master project opportunity in environmental toxicology and manatee health - University of South Alabama
by Catharina Vendl 17 Sep '23

17 Sep '23

Title Graduate Research Project in Environmental Toxicology (MS) –Potential long-term impacts of brevetoxin exposure on manatee health University University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL Application Deadline November 15th Description We are seeking a new graduate student to conduct a research project within the 2-year Environmental Toxicology Masters program at the University of South Alabama ideally starting in Spring 2023. Applications will be accepted through November 15th and reviewed as they are received. Project: Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are thought to be increasing in intensity and geographic distribution in coastal areas worldwide, due in part to anthropogenic activities and climate change. HABs such as the brevetoxin-producer Karenia brevis are prevalent along the Gulf of Mexico coastline and blooms have resulted in bioaccumulation in seafood, uptake by macroalgae, and associated with widescale fish-kills, and mortalities in sea birds, sea turtles, and marine mammals. As a migratory species that move large distances between the southeast and the northern Gulf of Mexico annually, the West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus) can be exposed to brevetoxin multiple times in their lifetime. This project seeks to investigate the potential long-term correlation between manatee mortality (from animals stranded in Alabama waters) and brevetoxin exposure. The successful graduate student will learn advanced toxicological and analytical methods for the detection and quantification of brevetoxins from manatee tissues archived by the Alabama Marine Mammal Stranding Network. Using compartment models the student will then evaluate the timing and extent of toxin exposure which will then be correlated to necropsy data and histopathology. While this project is expected to be largely lab-based, the student will also have the opportunity to assist with occasional manatee stranding responses, necropsies, and environmental sample collection during bloom events. Qualifications Desirable background and skills include: a) experience in bioanalytical chemistry, molecular biology, or other clean, meticulous work; b) ability to create quality spreadsheets, graphs, and conduct basic statistical analyses (experience with R is a plus). Prospective students should be highly motivated and independent, have strong communication skills, and be willing to conduct extensive lab work. This student would also be expected to conduct research and attend classes at the University of South Alabama campus and the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, located 45-minutes south of the University. A B.S. degree in the Life Sciences with prior coursework in Chemistry, Biology, Biochemistry, Physiology, and Statistics, preferred. All training will be provided to ensure success of the student. Successful applicants will be considered for a research assistantship and tuition remission through the Stokes School of Marine and Environmental Sciences and/or via grant funding for up to 2-years, renewable annually. These funded positions are limited and competitive, so preference will be given to students with experience (and/or transferrable skills), competitive grades, and references from prior positions. Contact Interested applicants should contact Dr. Alison Robertson (arobertson(a)disl.org<mailto:arobertson@disl.org>) to express interest. Please use the email subject “Brevetoxin Graduate Student Assistantship” and include: 1) a brief description of research interests as they relate to this project; 2) an updated CV including undergraduate GPA and referee contact information; and 3) unofficial transcripts. Learn more about the Robertson lab (https://www.disl.edu/who-we-are/arobertson/#who-we-are) and Carmichael Lab (https://www.disl.edu/who-we-are/rcarmichael/#carmichael-lab) More information on the Environmental Toxicology program can be found here: https://www.southalabama.edu/colleges/artsandsci/marinesciences/environment… The University of South Alabama value diversity in every sense of the word and are equal-opportunity employers and encourage applications from a diverse pool of prospective students. [cid:1da9bc85-9c36-459d-8266-5db1dc642bfb]

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