MARINE MAMMAL VOLUNTEER POSITIONS IN THE AEGEAN SEA ARE AVAILABLE Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation is currently seeking for volunteers, based in beautiful island of Samos, Greece. The project is focused on the conservation of marine mammals through combining research and education. Therefore, while marine mammal abundance, distribution, behaviour and threats will be monitored through boat and land surveys, active involvement of stakeholders to the projects will also be supported. This project provides an excellent opportunity for post-grads, students and individuals interested in getting more experience and knowledge in the field of marine mammal research. Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation (www.archipelago.gr) is a Greek non-profit, non-governmental organization committed to the conservation of the marine and terrestrial environments of the Greek seas and islands for over a decade. Previously, bottlenose dolphins, common dolphins, striped dolphins, Risso's dolphins, sperm whales, beaked whales, fin whales, false killer whale, harbour porpoises and Mediterranean monk seals were documented in the Aegean Sea. VOLUNTEERS are primarily responsible for behavioural data collection, theodolite operation, photographing individuals and cataloguing dolphin/monk seal pictures, data entry. Training will be provided beforehand. In addition, there will be ArcGIS and SPSS courses running which will be free for volunteers during their stay. There will be an opportunity to undertake a personal research project supervised by the project director. The base of project activities will be in Samos however there will be an opportunity to join the cetacean surveys in Fethiye and Antalya, Turkey carried by Marine Mammals Research Association. The enrolment on these surveys depends on the volunteer background and on the time of the year when they will participate. REQUIREMENTS Applicant are expected to be graduates or students of a BSc degree in biology, marine biology or zoology and able to demonstrate previous experience in the field of research and conservation. Knowledge on marine mammal species of Mediterranean is advantage. Practical experience of photo-identification (both photography and matching) and theodolite operation is desirable. The applicant must be fluent in English, proficient with database and word processing software and be willing to learn new software applications. Volunteers must be self-motivated, with the drive and determination to work independently and responsibly, and with a true interest in marine conservation. The position is open starting from March 7th throughout the year. The minimum duration of the placements is normally 3 complete months. We may make exceptions for potential participants to apply for a shorter placement. PROJECT FEE This position is unpaid and requires a contribution fee of 650 euro per month, which covers the accommodation, meals, equipment, training and working expenses for the participants, as well as work insurance and Greek language lessons. Participants should cover their own travel expenses to Samos island where all projects start/end. TO APPLY Send CV and cove rletter by e-mail to a.akkaya@archipelago.gr Deadline for Applications: Monday 15th February 2016. Dr. Aylin Akkaya Bas Marine Mammal Research Coordinator Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation Marine Research Base: P.O. Box 42, Pythagorio, Samos 83102 www.archipelago.gr Tel. +30 2273061147, +30 2273061191