April 2026 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New publication: Gray whales (Eschrichtius robustus) in San Francisco Bay experience high mortality and have limited affiliation to known foraging groups
by Josie Slaathaug 12 Apr '26

12 Apr '26

Dear MARMAM community, My co-authors and I are pleased to share our open-access publication in Frontiers, the results of a very collaborative study and the first publication detailing live gray whales in San Francisco Bay, available here: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/marine-science/articles/10.3389/fmars.… Slaathaug JM, Lane RS, Keener W, Pe´rez A, Flannery M, Webber MA, Grimes A, Wilkin AM, O’Hern JE, Duignan PJ, Calambokidis J and Crocker DE (2026) Gray whales (*Eschrichtius robustus*) in San Francisco Bay experience high mortality and have limited affiliation to known foraging groups. Front. Mar. Sci. 13:1775666. doi: Abstract Terrestrial and marine species are exhibiting distributional shifts due to climate change and resource availability. As food webs are impacted, some species have moved into areas of increased human activity, encountering anthropogenic hazards. A coastal marine species that undertakes a long migration between breeding and foraging ranges, the Eastern North Pacific (ENP) population of gray whales (Eschrichtius robustus) is especially vulnerable to changes. Subgroups of ENP gray whales, including the Pacific Coast Feeding Group and the (Puget) Sounders, have adapted to exploit alternative feeding grounds as prey availability declines in the Arctic. Novel to known migration phenology, gray whales have been observed seasonally since 2018 in San Francisco Bay (SF Bay), California. We evaluated subgroup identity and mortality of gray whales in SF Bay from 2018 - 2025 using photo-identification. Data were collected through vessel-based surveys, opportunistic effort, and community submissions. We identified 114 individual whales of which eight were matched to a subgroup, indicating gray whales utilizing SF Bay are not merely a range extension by foraging subgroups. Only four gray whales were resighted within SF Bay between years. Using photographs, 21 individuals were successfully matched to carcasses and a minimum mortality rate of 18% was determined. Blunt and/or sharp force trauma consistent with vessel strike was determined to be the cause of death for 30 of 70 carcasses, and for nine of 11 matched animals where a cause of death was determined. Sounder and PCFG matched whales were more likely to survive SF Bay than ENP individuals, though minimum length of stay did not influence mortality. This work confirms that gray whales entering SF Bay are highly susceptible to vessel strike mortality and highlights a crucial need to identify and implement adaptive management strategies to mitigate injuries and mortality as whales continue to utilize novel habitat. Kind regards, Josephine (Josie) Slaathaug *she/her* National Science Foundation Graduate Fellow M.Sc Student, Crocker Lab Sonoma State University, Department of Biology slaathaugj(a)sonoma.edu Linkedin <http://www.linkedin.com/in/josie-slaathaug-341234236>

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New publication: "Harbor Porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) in Dublin Bay: How Does Dredge Disposal Affect Foraging Behavior?"
by CILIA KOOTSTRA - RESEARCH 11 Apr '26

11 Apr '26

Dear MARMAM community, My authors and I are please to announce the publication of our article titled "Harbor Porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) in Dublin Bay: How Does Dredge Disposal Affect Foraging Behavior?" in the Marine Mammal Journal. The paper can be found at: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/mms.70168 Citation: Kootstra, C., C.Russell, S.Berrow, and J.O'Brien. 2026. “Harbor Porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) in Dublin Bay: How Does Dredge Disposal Affect Foraging Behavior?.” Marine Mammal Science42, no. 2: e70168. https://doi.org/10.1111/mms.70168. Abstract: Harbor porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) are among the most widespread cetacean species in Irish waters and are listed under Annex II of the EU Habitats Directive as a species of community importance. The local harbor porpoise population in Dublin Bay coexists with designated spoil grounds for dredging activity, which has increased due to Dublin Port's Alexandra Basin Redevelopment (ABR) project. This study examines the long- and short-term effects of dredge disposal on harbor porpoise foraging behavior over a 5-year period (2017–2021). Acoustic monitoring using C-PODs was conducted inside and outside the Burford Bank disposal site. The effect of dredge disposal on foraging intensity (quantified by hourly buzz:click ratio) was analyzed using Generalized Additive Mixed Models (GAMMs) and assessed using modified Before–After (BA) and Before–After Control-Impact (BACI) frameworks. We classified 33% of detected clicks as buzzes. Foraging intensity increased during three of the four dredging phases compared to non-dredging periods at all monitored locations, including the control site. Short-term responses, however, were highly site-specific. These findings suggest that dredge disposal had no obvious negative impact on harbor porpoise foraging behavior and may have increased food availability. This study provides valuable insights into balancing species conservation with infrastructure development. This publication was made possible by the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG)'s monitoring of dredging operations in Dublin Bay for nearly 10 years, in collaboration with Dublin Port Company (DPC) and RPS Group. We thank them for their continued help and support throughout the project. All the best, Cilia Kootstra, PhD candidate. Marine and Freshwater Reasearch Centre (MFRC), Atlantic Technological University (ATU). Tá an ríomhphost seo faoi réir an tséanta seo leanas atá le fáil ag Séanadh Ríomhphost Ollscoil Teicneolaíochta an Atlantaigh<https://www.atu.ie/email-disclaimer> This e-mail is subject to the following disclaimer available at Atlantic TU Email Disclaimer<https://www.atu.ie/email-disclaimer>

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European Cetacean Society Conference Newsletter April
by Mariel tendoeschate 10 Apr '26

10 Apr '26

Dear all, Less than two weeks to go until the ECS conference will take place in Dundee (20 - 24 April 2026). Please find the latest information in the April Newsletter<https://sway.cloud.microsoft/dnEvj2AKG7EeJ0iw> , which also includes links to the programme and abstract book. This will be our last newsletter as we focus on the final logistics for the conference. All further communications will be sent to registered delegates only and/or shared on the social media channels. We will also post on the social media during the conference, so those who are not able to join us in person can still follow the ongoings there. We look forward to seeing many of you in Dundee, soon! Kind regards, Your ECS2026 Local Organising Committee Carol Sparling, Mariel ten Doeschate, Ailsa Hall and Joanna Kershaw Local Organising Committee ECS Dundee, Scotland, 2026 Website<https://www.europeancetaceansociety.eu/conference-2026> <https://www.europeancetaceansociety.eu/conference-2026> | Instagram<https://www.instagram.com/europeancetaceansociety/> | Facebook<https://www.facebook.com/EuropeanCetaceanSociety>

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DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIP IN PORTUGAL
by AIMM Internships 10 Apr '26

10 Apr '26

*DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIP IN PORTUGAL* *BACKGROUND: *The Marine Environment Research Association - AIMM, is a non-profit, non-governmental organization focused on the research and conservation of marine species, running an ongoing study of cetaceans in southern Portugal (Algarve). This project aims to obtain baseline information on species occurrence, behavior, and social structure of the local cetacean populations in order to obtain scientific data to support conservation measures and inform marine management policies. The main species observed are Short-beaked common dolphins (Delphinus delphis), Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), and Harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena), although other species such as Minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) and Fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) can also be sighted. AIMM Interns are young, hard-working individuals who are willing to contribute to the association and support on-going activities, while experiencing fieldwork at sea, learning data collection and processing methodologies, and being a part of AIMM's team of researchers and marine biologists. All team members and participants share accommodation, house tasks, knowledge and experience in an friendly and multicultural environment. Interns have the additional option to enrich their time with AIMM by beginning or improving their SCUBA skills with a PADI-certified instructor, hiking, kayaking, surf classes and others. *WHERE:* Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal *WHEN:* The field season lasts from 17th May to end of November 2025. The minimum internship attendance is 14 days. *FIELDWORK: *The field trips are conducted in AIMM's research vessel, Ketos, commercial dolphin watching boats and from the shore. Fieldwork is dependent on weather conditions. The field days can be intense, especially in the peak of summer but are fulfilling and good fun. The interns will be trained to: - Conduct on-board surveys of marine species occurrence; - Record effort tracks on a handheld GPS; - Access and collect environmental data; - Collect data on behavior, group size, species, etc.; - Collect photos to photo-identification, acoustic recording, and underwater videos; - Help to collect of drone footage from the marine mammals; - Land base monitoring of marine mammals. *DATA ANALYSIS: *This will be conducted on a daily basis and will entail entering data into established databases and spreadsheets, photo-identification processing, and preliminary data interpretation. *INTERNSHIP FEES:* AIMM is a non-profit organization that relies on donations from our volunteers, partners, and conservation-minded people like you so that we may continue our important research and education programs in the Algarve. This internship requires a monetary contribution which is used to off-set the cost of accommodation and running a non-profit. For more information on internship fees for the 2025 season, please contact: interns(a)aimmportugal.org *Included* in the fee is: - Accommodation in AIMM field station; - Transportation to/from the marina; - All meals at home (breakfast, lunch, and dinner); - Fieldwork; - Theoretical classes. *Not included* in the fee is: - Transportation to/from Albufeira; - Meals in restaurants; - Free time activities; - Personal insurance (all participants should have health and/or travel insurance); - Others personal expenses. *INTERNS ARE EXPECTED TO:* - Be above the age of 16; - Have a mature attitude towards marine mammal research and environment; - Be autonomous and flexible; - Be able to live and work in an international team and mainly outdoors at sea; - Speak English; - Participate for minimum 7 days. *Preference will be given* to those who have: - Relevant marine mammal field experience - Working experience on research vessels - Experience working from dolphin/whale watching platforms - Experience in photo-identification - Availability to stay for longer periods of time *INTERNSHIP APPLICATION: * You can apply on AIMM website here <http://www.aimmportugal.org/opportunities/dolphin-research-internship/>*.* *or * Send us an e-mail to: interns(a)aimmportugal.org, with the subject “*DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIP*” with your CV and motivation letter. We will send you a confirmation email with the availability and all the other details. Applications will be accepted during all season. However, early application is recommended due to limited vacancies. The follow links are a shorts videos about the internship in Albufeira. You get a different perspective and feedback from old participants about it: http://bit.ly/aimm-movie <https://bit.ly/AIMM-movie> https://youtu.be/hTJJQPHBdI0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4zTIEQEsftA *Contacts*: interns(a)aimmportugal.org | www.aimmportugal.org | Thank you, <http://aimm-marineresearch.blogspot.com/> [image: Logo AIMM] <https://www.aimmportugal.org/> Associação para Investigação do Meio Marinho *Marine Environment Research Association* m: (00351) 964464657 e: interns(a)aimmportugal.org www.aimmportugal.org <https://www.facebook.com/AIMM.org> <https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8jcTONJZsvaQ3tZiQtRFNQ> <https://www.linkedin.com/company/aimm-portugal---marine-environment-researc…> <https://www.instagram.com/aimmportugal_org/>

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New paper: “BW90”: The Highest Frequency Clicks Ever Recorded for a Beaked Whale
by Raphael Machado 09 Apr '26

09 Apr '26

Dear MARMAM community, We are pleased to announce the publication of our new article entitled *“BW90: The Highest Frequency Clicks Ever Recorded for a Beaked Whale.”* The article is open access at the following link: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/mms.70161 Rodrigues-Soares, N., R. B. Machado, Y. Viana, and A. Andriolo. 2026. “BW90: The Highest Frequency Clicks Ever Recorded for a Beaked Whale.” *Marine Mammal Science* 42(2): e70161. https://doi.org/10.1111/mms.70161. *Abstract:* Beaked whales are deep-diving odontocetes with cryptic behavior, which makes their detection through visual surveys challenging. Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) is essential for studying this group, as many species emit species-specific frequency-modulated (FM) pulses that enable acoustic discrimination. In the Southwest Atlantic Ocean (SWAO), knowledge of beaked whale diversity and acoustic repertoires remains limited. In this study, we describe a new type of FM pulse attributed to a beaked whale, recorded during two passive acoustic monitoring surveys conducted in deep offshore waters off northeastern Brazil in 2020 and 2025. Recordings were obtained using a 300 m linear array composed of four omnidirectional hydrophones (sensitivity of −205 dB re 1 V/µPa) operating at a sampling rate of 500 kHz, and were analyzed using PAMGuard and Raven software, as well as custom routines developed in R and Python. A total of 378 FM pulses were detected (313 in 2020 and 65 in 2025), along with a small number of non-modulated echolocation clicks recorded during the first detection. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed substantial overlap among detections, suggesting a single acoustic signal type, designated BW90. The FM pulses exhibited peak frequencies around 90 kHz, higher than those reported for any known beaked whale species, and showed distinct temporal and spectral characteristics. Using published data, we examined the relationship between peak frequency and body length across beaked whale species and found a strong inverse relationship (R² = 0.79; p < 0.001), suggesting that the species producing BW90 is likely small-bodied, with an estimated body length of approximately 3.2 m—smaller than any described beaked whale species.These results indicate that BW90 may be associated with a beaked whale species that has not yet been acoustically classified or formally described, highlighting PAM as a powerful tool for detecting cryptic biodiversity in poorly studied oceanic regions. Best regards, Raphael Machado --

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New publication: Harbor porpoise distribution and habitat use in the Northern California Current over three decades
by Barlow, Dawn R 09 Apr '26

09 Apr '26

Dear MARMAM community, On behalf of my coauthors, I am pleased to share our recent publication: Barlow DR, Strong CS, Muhling B, Torres LG. 2026. Harbor porpoise distribution and habitat use in the Northern California Current over three decades. PeerJ 14:e21021 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.21021 ABSTRACT: In the dynamic marine environment, mobile predators adapt their distribution and habitat use in alignment with regional biogeographic features that confer predictable prey resources. However, long-term changes in environmental conditions may challenge the resilience and persistence of regionally adapted populations. In this study, we investigated how densities of a marine predator, the harbor porpoise, vary relative to habitat characteristics and whether they respond to large-scale fluctuations in environmental conditions. Vessel-based visual surveys were conducted between 1992 and 2022 in the nearshore waters of the Northern California Current. We developed stock-specific density surface models to examine harbor porpoise distribution relative to environmental covariates and predict density over time. This enabled us to identify long-term, stable spatial hotspots, and evaluate inter-annual fluctuations in density relative to ocean basin-scale climate indices and annual upwelling phenology. Harbor porpoises exhibited stock-specific habitat preferences reflecting regional biogeography. Predicted densities were higher in shallow, nearshore waters, with closer proximity to capes and estuaries, and in response to intermittent upwelling. Harbor porpoise density within our nearshore study region was significantly higher during years with longer and stronger upwelling seasons, and lower during El Niño conditions. Taken together, these findings emphasize the importance of regionally guided population assessment and management, and careful consideration of the potential impacts of climate change and anthropogenic pressures on this sensitive nearshore species and the habitats they rely on in the Northern California Current. The full article is open access, and available online: https://peerj.com/articles/21021/ Please do not hesitate to reach out with questions or to request a PDF copy. Cheers, Dawn Dawn R. Barlow, Ph.D. (she/her) Assistant Professor (Senior Research) Marine Mammal Institute | College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences Hatfield Marine Science Center | Oregon State University

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Two New Publications on Capitoline Dolphins
by Maria Silvia Labriola 08 Apr '26

08 Apr '26

Dear colleagues, on behalf of my co-authors, I am pleased to share two of our recent publications on the bottlenose dolphin population inhabiting the Tiber River estuary area (the "Capitoline Dolphins"). Labriola, M. S., Parisi, A., Marinchel, N., Rinalduzzi, S., Turchi, A., Giacomini, G., Pace, D.S. & Russo, T. (2026). *Fishing trawlers drive the fine-scale daytime distribution of bottlenose dolphins at the Tiber River estuary (Western Mediterranean Sea)*. *Marine Environmental Research*, 107996. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marenvres.2026.107996 ABSTRACT Fisheries can strongly alter marine ecosystem dynamics, influencing the ecology and behaviour of top predators such as cetaceans. At the Tiber River estuary (Tyrrhenian Sea, Western Mediterranean), bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) frequently interact with bottom trawlers operating off the coast of Rome. We combined five years (2019-2023) of boat-based survey data with fishing data derived from the Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) to assess the influence of trawling activity on dolphin distribution. Spatial and temporal correlations between dolphin presence and fishing effort were analysed using multivariate analysis and overlap metrics. Dolphin occurrence was modelled relative to environmental and vessel-level predictors with generalized linear mixed-effects models (GLMMs), incorporating chlorophyll-a concentration (concurrent and lagged) as a proxy for productivity. In the area where sufficient survey effort was invested, dolphin presence was strongly associated with fishing hotspots, and dolphins shifted farther offshore on trawling days, indicating an ecological switch from nearshore natural resources to trawler-associated prey. Spatial overlap varied markedly among vessels, indicating preferences for certain trawlers. GLMMs identified specific vessels with a significant positive effect on dolphin occurrence, even after controlling for productivity. Catch analysis revealed these vessels landed higher amounts of European hake and common octopus, key dolphin prey species. Findings suggest dolphins exhibit flexible, and possibly socially acquired, foraging strategies in response to fisheries, with trawling acting as a strong driver of their distribution. While adaptive, such associations may reduce natural foraging, alter ecological dynamics, and pose conservation issues. This study provides a fine-scale perspective of fishery-driven behavioural change in dolphins and offers actionable insights for local management under EU marine biodiversity directives. Mattiussi, A., Labriola, M. S., Turchi, A., Rinalduzzi, S., Giacomini, G., Pedrazzi, G., & Pace, D. S. (2026). *Uplifting resources management in conservation: mid-term studies are able to capture the dynamic patterns of site-fidelity and seasonal abundance of coastal cetacean populations*. *Hydrobiologia*, 1-18. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10750-026-06141-y ABSTRACT Mid-to long-term research is pivotal for conservation and coastal management yet often undervalued by policymakers and funding bodies. Continuous marine monitoring may be needed to define animal residency patterns and abundance—key information for effective conservation strategies. Here, we used an eight-year (2016–2023) dataset on coastal bottlenose dolphins at Tiber River estuary (Mediterranean Sea, Italy) to examine site-fidelity and estimate population abundance. The work aimed to (1) compare results with a previous, shorter-term study (2017–2020) and (2) test whether extended datasets enhance understanding of population dynamics. Longitudinal photo-identification analysis and site-fidelity metrics (occurrence, monthly/yearly rates, resight rate, periodicity, relative span-time) confirmed three site-fidelity clusters: residents, partially-residents and transients. A first-order Markov chain model revealed a high misclassification risk for partially-residents in short-term studies. Kernel density estimations showed distinct spatial use, with a more coastal occurrence of residents. The updated abundance estimate aligns with previous findings but with a narrowed confidence interval, indicating population stability and improved statistical robustness. These results support the need of multi-year studies for reliable ecological insights and population assessments. We urge policymakers to support longer-term research efforts and consider our findings in future local conservation actions targeting coastal dolphins, key species in marine ecosystems. The first paper is available as open access, whereas the second is not. However, I would be very happy to share a copy upon request; please feel free to get in touch if you are interested. I hope these contributions may be of interest, and I would greatly appreciate any feedback or discussion. With best regards, Maia -- *Maria Silvia LabriolaPhD Student in Evolutionary Biology and EcologyDepartment of Biology - University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, ItalyMail: maria.silvia.labriola(a)uniroma2.it <maria.silvia.labriola(a)uniroma2.it>ORCID iD: https://orcid.org/0009-0007-2666-8673 <https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://orcid.org/0009-0007-2666-8673__;!!O5Bi4…>ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Maria-Silvia-Labriola <https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Maria-Silv…>Lab: https://www.recolab.org/ <https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://www.recolab.org/__;!!O5Bi4QcV!E_Fcpzuwc…>*

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Review of Spatiotemporal Trends in North Atlantic Norwegian Small Vessel Whaling (1948 to 1985)
by Conor Ryan 08 Apr '26

08 Apr '26

Dear Colleagues, Peter Wilson and I are glad to announce the recent publication of our research on historical small-vessel whaling in the North Atlantic: Ryan, C., and P.Wilson. 2026. “Review of Spatiotemporal Trends in North Atlantic Norwegian Small Vessel Whaling (1948 to 1985).” Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems36, no. 4: e70364. https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.70364. Please get in touch if you would like a pdf. Cheers, Conor Ryan Honorary Research Fellow <https://www.sams.ac.uk/people/fellows/ryan-dr-conor/>, Scottish Association for Marine Science

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NAMMCO Internship Programme – Applications are open
by Ricardo, Intern NAMMCO 07 Apr '26

07 Apr '26

Dear MARMAM community, Applications are open for the NAMMCO Internship Programme<https://nammco.no/nammco-internship/>. The deadline is 1 May 2026. Please feel free to circulate this opportunity among students or early-career professionals who may be interested. This internship offers students and early-career professionals a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience in international marine mammal management, strengthen their communication and science outreach skills, and contribute to the work of NAMMCO – North Atlantic Marine Mammal Commission. The internship provides valuable experience in: * Learning about the management and conservation of marine mammals * Staying informed on the latest research in the field * Expanding your professional network It also supports the development of skills in: * Communication and outreach * Meeting and event organisation * Report writing and website content editing The position is full-time and based at the NAMMCO Secretariat in Tromsø, Norway. A monthly stipend is provided to help cover living expenses. Applicants must be from NAMMCO member countries (Faroe Islands, Greenland, Iceland, Norway) or from EU/EEA countries. The next internship is expected to begin in autumn 2026. Application deadline: 1 May 2026 Application form<https://nammco.no/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/nammco-internship_application_…> More information<https://nammco.no/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/nammco-internship_information_…> to submit a complete application. Only complete applications will be considered. Best regards Ricardo de Almeida Mendes Intern NAMMCO – North Atlantic Marine Mammal Commission Visitors: Sykehusveien 21-23, N-9294 Tromsø, Norway Post: POB 6400, N-9294 Tromsø, Norway Call for Papers — NAMMCO Scientific Publication series<https://septentrio.uit.no/index.php/NAMMCOSP/index> Volume 15 is now accepting submissions for Issue 1, Marine mammal abundance: estimates and surveys (survey results and methodological studies), and Issue 2, Marine mammals in the North Atlantic (research supporting conservation and management). Submissions are open. Interested in submitting a manuscript? You can find detailed information on the volume and the submission process here<https://septentrio.uit.no/index.php/NAMMCOSP/announcement/view/120>, or you may contact nsp(a)nammco.org<mailto:nsp@nammco.org> for additional inquiries.

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Harbor Seal Ecology in California - M.S. opportunity
by Dawn Goley 06 Apr '26

06 Apr '26

Please share this opportunity with additional information. Thank you. MS position evaluating abundance, distribution, and diet of Harbor Seals in northern California We seek a Master’s student candidate to support research on the evaluation of abundance, distribution, and diet of Harbor Seals in northern California. The student will join collaborators at Cal Poly Humboldt (Humboldt) in the Departments of Wildlife and Zoology, supported by a grant from the California State University (CSU) Council on Ocean Affairs, Science & Technology (COAST). The successful candidate will collaborate with another graduate student currently working on the project and may also help to oversee and advise undergraduate honors theses in support of the project. This position offers the opportunity to work on an interdisciplinary project evaluating both marine mammal and fish populations in Humboldt Bay, in northern California. Successful applicants should have experience surveying marine mammals and fishes, operating small, motorized vessels and kayaks in marine conditions, operating unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), and working independently. A modest annual salary is available through a grant provided by CSU COAST to Principal Investigators Drs Dawn Goley and Micaela Gunther, Professors in the Departments of Zoology and Wildlife, respectively, at Cal Poly Humboldt, who will serve as graduate committee members and mentors. California residents may be eligible for the State University Grant to cover in-state tuition. Cal Poly Humboldt is a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) and the Departments of Wildlife and Zoology are committed to creating inclusive learning environments that recruit, welcome, and train the diverse next generation of wildlife biologists. The Gunther and Goley labs are healthy and safe environments committed to maintaining and promoting a diverse, inclusive, and collaborative work environment where members are empowered to freely and openly share their different views, ideas, and experiences. Required Qualifications: - Bachelor’s degree in Wildlife, Biology, Zoology, Ecology, or related field - At least one year of field experience working in this field of study - Ability to work both independently and as part of a team to achieve research goals - Small boat and/or UAV (boating certificate, drone license), or equivalent experience - Generally strong field, mapping, and quantitative skills - Experience conducting fieldwork under challenging conditions (e.g., inclement weather) - An interest in utilizing non-invasive and genetic methods to study marine ecology Preferred Qualifications: - Experience with marine mammal and marine fish surveys - Experience identifying marine fish species using otoliths - Field experience in a leadership role - Experience using GIS and R to manage and analyze wildlife/biological data - Experience managing and analyzing large data sets Interested applicants should send the following materials combined into a single pdf, with last name as title of file, to Dr. Dawn Goley using - Patricia.Goley(a)humboldt.edu - with subject line “Harbor Seal MS 2026”: 1. A letter of research interest that highlights relevant skills, field experiences, and career goals; 2. A cv or resume, including contact information for three references; and 3. Transcripts (unofficial okay) from all undergraduate institutions. The successful applicant will be asked to submit an official application to the Natural Resources – Wildlife graduate program at Cal Poly Humboldt. Anticipated start date is 10 Aug 2026. Applications received by 10 April will be given priority screening. *Dawn Goley, Ph.D.* (she, her)| *Professor of Zoology* | Department of Biological Sciences I Cal Poly - Humboldt I Arcata, California I 95521 I 707-826-4168 | Director of the HSU Marine Mammal Education and Research Program <http://gsp.humboldt.edu/Projects/MMSP/Site1/MMERP.html> and Director of the *HSU Marine Mammal Stranding Program* I HSU Marine Mammal Stranding *Hotline 707-826-3650 and email **marinemammals(a)humboldt.edu* <marinemammals(a)humboldt.edu> I HSU is a Latinx and Chicanx Serving Institution located on the traditional lands of the Wiyot people. ----- To Book an appointment - please use this link: *https://calendar.app.google/xwryhKoYamRVYTDo8 <https://calendar.app.google/xwryhKoYamRVYTDo8>* -----

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