The research group CIRCE (www.circe.info) is urgently seeking 2 research assistants to help with photo-identification matching of common dolphins in Southern Spain. The Mediterranean subpopulation of short-beaked common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) is considered as endangered by the IUCN. One of the remaining places where you can find common dolphins is in the Bay of Algeciras, a sheltered bay in the Strait of Gibraltar with high levels of waste waters, heavy factory contaminants dumping, intense maritime traffic and an increasing whale-watching industry targeting the common dolphins. Recent studies have highlighted the area as a feeding and a breeding ground for common dolphins, which makes it of special interest for the conservation of the species. CIRCE has launched a study to estimate the population size of common dolphins inhabiting the Bay of Algeciras, using photo-identification. Research assistants should be prepared to long working days in the office analysing thousands of photographs collected during 2009 and 2010 and matching them with the photo-identification catalogues. You will be responsible for your own transportation to and from the main centre in Algeciras (Cádiz, Spain). We will provide shared accommodation but food will be at your own expenses. Group shopping will keep the food expenses low (20€/week approx.) Dates:
From now until December 2011.
Successful applicants will: - have a mature attitude towards marine mammal research - have relevant experience in photo-identification - be autonomous and quickly operational - be able to live and work constructively with others in a team - speak fluently English and/or Spanish - be available for at least 2 months Preference will be given to those who: - can stay for a longer period - can start as soon as possible Sometimes you might get the opportunity to take part in data collection during land- and/or boat-based fieldwork in the Strait of Gibraltar and Bay of Algeciras. Applicants should send a short email introducing themselves to gimenez.verdugo@gmail.com The email should include an outline of why you would like to work on this project, your qualifications and relevant experience. Please also attach a brief CV including at least one reference acknowledging your photo-ID experience. Early application is recommended as applications will be examined in order of reception. All the best, Joan ------------------------- Joan Gimenez Verdugo CIRCE - Conservation, Information and Research on Cetaceans – SPAIN gimenez.verdugo@gmail.com http://www.circe.info Mobile: (+34) 619 17 68 49 <%28%2B34%29%20658%20199%20045> -------------------------