VOLUNTEERS FIELD HELPERS RECRUITMENT ------------------------------------ PROJECT: Study on the occurrence of cetacean in the Bohol Sea and melon-headed whales social ecology WEB SITE: www.lamave.org <http://www.eleseal.org/> POSITION: Volunteer (unpaid) field helper DURATION: 2 months, 1st July 2014 to end of August 2014 LOCATION: Messina Strait in the South of Italy Are you passionate about dolphins and whales? Would you like to know more about cetacean research? Are you thrilled about teaching marine conservation and sustainable use of marine resources? The NGO Physalus is looking for 2 to 3 volunteers to help in the data processing for our project on the social-structure of melon-headed whales. These positions will be based in the South of Italy where the Physalus office is located. Physalus Physalus is a non-profit organization founded in Italy, operating primarily for the protection of the environment through marine conservation initiatives. In 2010, Physalus started the Large Marine Vertebrates Project Philippines (LAMAVE) to conduct scientific research and raise environmental awareness in collaboration with government agencies, non-government organizations, universities and the private sector. Background of the project Melon headed whales is a tropical species that usually inhabits offshore waters, however in the Bohol Sea, Philippines, we are so lucky to have them near the cost and we have been studied the local population since 2010. This species is fairly unknown and appears to have a very interesting social structure, in between a fission-fusion and a matrilinear one. We are trying to unravel the characteristics of melon-headed social dynamics and we need your help. Duties Volunteers are expected to work mainly on photo-ID (training will be provided) and matching. However duties will also include: - beach cleaning events - run the “sustainable happy hour” at a local restaurant - cetacean monitoring of the Messina strait - house keeping activities Timeline Volunteers are expected to work 7 days a week, office hours are long but there will be occasions to enjoy the marvelous surroundings of the Messina Strait. Volunteers are needed for 2 months from the 1st of July to the end of August. Experience You will learn about cetacean biology and behaviour, research techniques and tropical dolphins species as well as Philippines’ culture. Costs Unfortunately we are not able to provide compensation for these positions but housing is provided in Reggio Calabria in a beautiful house on the beach and we will all share food expenses. Requirements These positions ideally suits advanced undergraduates or graduates of a scientifically oriented university program and preference will be given to those with previous experience in photo-ID or cetacean research. A typical applicant should have a strong interest in the scientific study of cetacean behavioral ecology. The applicant must take initiative, be willing to work intensively, be self-motivated and be able to work as part of a team. Preference will be given to persons that can commit for the entire period. To apply please send 1) a cover letter describing your interest in the position, 2) a CV or resume to Valeria Senigaglia ( valeria.senigaglia@gmail.com). Reference letters are appreciated but not essential. There is no deadline to apply but due to the early commence of the work we warmly suggest perspective candidates to apply as soon as possible. Valeria Senigaglia Physalus, LAMAVE www.lamave.org valeria.senigaglia@gmail.com