Marine
Mammal research assistants required in Broadhaven Bay, Co. Mayo, Ireland
Beaufort/ Coastal & Marine Research Centre (CMRC) University College
Cork, is seeking volunteer research assistants for the 2015 field season, to
carry out research on marine mammals in Broadhaven Bay, Co. Mayo, Ireland
between May – September 2015. Research assistants will be required to conduct cliff-
based monitoring surveys, office related tasks and strandings surveys. This presents
an opportunity to work within a team of experienced researchers and gain
experience in field techniques for marine mammal surveys, while contributing to
a larger program of marine mammal research.
Work
Period
15 May 2015 – 31 September 2015
Due to training requirements, preference will be given to applicants who
can commit to the full season. However, those available for shorter periods of
time will also be considered.
Location
Free accommodation for volunteers will be provided in a project house overlooking Beldara Beach (surf beach), 2.5km from Binghamstown, a small village located on the beautiful Mullet
Peninsula, Co. Mayo. The house,
which doubles as the office, is 7km (10 mins. drive) from the larger town of
Belmullet, where there are supermarkets, cafes, pubs, banks, etc. All bills will be covered. The Mullet
Peninsula is a stunning location on the world famous Wild Atlantic Way,
boasting some of the nicest, and untouched, beaches in Ireland. A perfect place
for those who enjoy surfing, hiking and wildlife. Applicants must be aware that
it is also somewhat geographically remote with limited facilities and variable
weather patterns and for this reason applicants with a car will be looked upon
favourably.
Responsibilities
Conducting cliff-based surveys from two sites in Broadhaven Bay.
Conducting occasional C-POD servicing trips. Data entry and analysis, including photo-ID and acoustic data.
Requirements
Essential
Genuine interest in marine mammal biology, the marine environment and conservation.
Basic computer proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word)
Excellent verbal and communication skills
Enthusiastic with a positive attitude to hard work and long hours
Work well both in a team and independently
Flexible and patient as fieldwork is highly weather dependent
Prepared to work long days in the field
Good English language skills
Moderate level of fitness – there is a 25 minute hike carrying gear to
the cliff sites.
Desirable, but not essential
Enrolled in or completed a degree in Biology, Marine Biology, Environmental
Science, Animal Behaviour, Ecology, Zoology or related fields
Previous field research experience, particularly marine research
A strong interest and knowledge of marine mammals
Familiarity with theodolite use, GPS equipment and software
Prior experience with R, ArcGIS and C-POD software
Driving Licence and car
Application
Instructions
Send a copy of your CV (including two relevant referees and their contact
details) and a brief (max 250 words) covering letter with a description of
yourself and your experience to Roisin Pinfield
(R.Pinfield@ucc.ie)
by 10th April 2015